Sustainable Technological Innovation Research Articles

The AI and Big Data Equitable Transformation Theory (ABETT): A Pathway to Inclusive Development and Technological Empowerment

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data technology has created new potential for economic growth, social development, and creativity. However, their incorporation into local economies presents issues regarding ethical governance, skill development, access to infrastructure, and equitable benefit sharing. This paper presents the AI and Big Data Equitable Transformation Theory (ABETT), a comprehensive framework for guiding the responsible and inclusive use of AI and big data in various scenarios. The ABETT model has six basic constructs: policy and ethical governance, skills development and education, scalable and equitable infrastructure access, collaborative innovation and knowledge exchange, sustainable AI and data for development, and economic growth and competitiveness. The ABETT framework was created, validated, and enhanced using a qualitative research design that included a systematic literature assessment, expert interviews, and case study analysis. The results support the model's relevance and applicability, illustrating how its elements work together to generate ethical and sustainable technological innovation. Comparisons with previous theories show that ABETT adds value by proposing a comprehensive and customizable pathway for AI and big data adoption that emphasizes collaboration, equity, and sustainability. The paper discusses the model's policy and practical implications, limitations, and future research recommendations. ABETT provides a practical roadmap for stakeholders who want to use AI and big data to promote inclusive growth, sustainable development, and equitable technical advancement.

Exploring the effect of collaboration modes on firms’ breakthrough technological innovation: a perspective from the innovation ecosystem

PurposeBreakthrough technological innovation is of vital significance for firms to acquire and maintain sustainable competitive advantages. The construction of an innovation ecosystem and the interaction with heterogeneous participants have emerged as a new dominant model for driving sustained breakthrough technological innovation in firms. This study aims to explore the effects of collaborative modes within the innovation ecosystem on firms’ breakthrough technological innovation and the ecological legitimacy mechanisms involved.Design/methodology/approachThe research employs data from 212 innovative firms and conducts empirical research using a two-stage structural equation modeling (SEM) and artificial neural network (ANN) analysis.FindingsThe results indicate that firm-firm collaboration (FF), firm-user collaboration (FU), firm-government collaboration (FG), firm-university-institute collaboration (FUI) and firm-intermediary collaboration (FI) all have significant positive effects on breakthrough technological innovation (BTI), with FU being particularly crucial. Furthermore, the results confirm the positive moderating effects of ecological legitimacy (EL) on the relationships between FF and BTI, as well as between FU and BTI. Conversely, EL has a negative moderating effect on the relationship between FUI and BTI, as well as between FI and breakthrough technological innovation. Additionally, EL does not have a significant influence on the relationship between FG and BTI.Originality/valueThrough resource dependence theory (RDT), this study unveils the black box of how collaboration modes within innovation ecosystems impact breakthrough technological innovation. By introducing ecological legitimacy as a contextual factor, a new research perspective is provided for collaboration innovation within innovation ecosystems. The study employs a combination of SEM and ANN for modeling, complementing nonlinear relationships and obtaining robust results in complex mechanisms.

To Study the Construction Techniques for Slum Rehabilitation In Metro Cites

With increasing urbanization, the need for adequate affordable shelter also increases. Housing shortage is one of the major challenges faced in developing countries like India. It is imperative to provide housing that caters to all income groups with special focus on the low and middle income groups. In order to provide low cost housing, it is essential to adopt innovative sustainable technologies which are affordable, fast track, cost effective, durable as well as environment friendly. This seminar discusses emerging innovative technologies that can be adopted in the country to lower housing construction cost and help in provision of mass affordable housing. Some of the technologies discussed are Tunnel form, Sismo building technology, Light Gauge Steel Framed Structural technology, Precast Sandwich Panel technology etc. These technologies are reviewed on various parameters like local availability, affordability, energy efficiency, structural stability, quality, speed, cost effectiveness, eco friendliness and suitability for high rise construction. The advantages and limitations of the technologies are also mentioned. The seminar highlights the potential barriers for adoption of these technologies in the Indian urban scenario and methods which can be employed to overcome those barriers in order to provide affordable housing for the low and middle income groups. Fast track construction is very much essential for the mass housing projects like slum rehabilitation . For this rapid wall technique can be best option for construction

Examining the impact of climate change on cereal production in India: Empirical evidence from ARDL modelling approach

Agriculture sector is major sufferer of climate change both at a global level as well as at India level. Cereals account for about 92 % of India's total food grain output and climate change has a significant influence on the production of cereals. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term and short-term effects of climatic and non-climatic variables, specifically temperature, precipitation, cereal area, total cropped area, fertilizer consumption, and pesticide consumption, on cereal production in India. The study included annual time series data that covered the period from 1960 to 2018, covering a period of 58 years. Various econometric techniques were employed to examine these relationships. The validity of a long-term and short-term relationship among the relevant variables included in the study was validated by employing the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) technique and the Johansen cointegration test. The ARDL model's estimation outcomes reveals that input factors such as cereal area became a key factor in rising cereal production, as evidenced by its positive coefficient. Similarly, fertilizer consumption and precipitation had positive effects on production in the long run whereas total cropped area and minimum temperature has little influence over the results of production both in short run as well as long run. Furthermore, the long-term findings were also supported using econometric tools like Canonical Cointegrating Regression (CCR) and Fully Modified Least Squares (FMOLS). These methods confirmed that variations in cereal production in India were significantly influenced by both climatic factors and agricultural inputs and factors. The study emphasizes the urgency for policymakers to prioritize proactive measures aimed at reducing the adverse impacts of climate change on cereal production in India. This necessitates a comprehensive strategy integrating sustainable practices, technological innovations, and robust policy frameworks to ensure resilient agricultural sectors and sustainable food production.

Polluting industries: Does green industrial policy encourage green innovation? Chinese perspective evidence

This study investigates the efficacy of green industrial policies in stimulating green innovation within China's polluting industries, over the period 2011–2022. Focusing on 30 provinces, we assess the dynamic relationship between green industrial policy implementation and innovation in environmentally detrimental sectors. Employing Difference-in-Differences (DID) and Propensity Score Matching DID (PSM-DID) models, we analyze comprehensive provincial-level data to quantify the impact of policy measures on green technological advancements. The results reveal a significant positive correlation between green industrial policies and the rate of green innovation, particularly in regions with higher pollution levels. These findings suggest that well-structured green industrial policies can serve as effective catalysts for fostering sustainable technological innovations in polluting industries. Policy implications highlight the necessity of targeted, region-specific approaches to maximize the potential of green industrial policies in promoting environmental sustainability and economic growth.

A model for aligning the features of the production process with the idea of sustainable development

The purpose was to develop and practically verify a model for aligning the characteristics of the production process with the idea of eco-development by identifying key factors related to technological capabilities and product competitiveness affecting the achievement of the goal and success of the enterprise. The study proposes a model approach to a multifaceted analysis of the key factors determining the construction of effective development strategies of industrial enterprises as a way to achieve the strategic goals of the enterprise in the long term. The study used a 3x3 linkage matrix divided into zones within which the results of surveys (carried out using a modified BOST questionnaire) were distributed, and statistical analyses were carried out to determine the level of importance of the considered factors from the area of technological capabilities and product competitiveness referring directly to the idea of sustainable development. The identified key factors referring to eco-development (optimization of the use of productive resources, design of a closed production cycle, in-house research and development) make up the development of new innovative sustainable technologies that will contribute to material savings and efficient use of energy, and thus have a positive impact on the environment. Verification of the developed model in a manufacturing company confirmed its usefulness in conducting data analysis for decision support.

Ammonia Emissions and Building-Related Mitigation Strategies in Dairy Barns: A Review

In this systematic review, the PRISMA method was applied to examine publications from the last two decades that have investigated the noxious gaseous emissions from dairy barns. The aim was to analyse the outcomes from literature studies estimating the quantities of polluting gases produced in dairy barns, with a specific focus on ammonia (NH3) emissions. Various studies, among those reviewed, have used mixed effects models, mass balance approaches and dispersion methods, revealing significant variability due to different experimental protocols and environmental contexts. Key challenges include the lack of standardised measurement techniques and the limited geographical coverage of research, particularly in climatically extreme regions. This review also explores proposed methods to reduce the associated effects through mitigation strategies. Estimation of NH3 emissions is significantly influenced by the complex interactions between several factors; including animal management practices, such as controlling animal behavioural activities; manure management, like utilising practices for floor manure removal; the type of structure housing the animals, whether it is naturally or mechanically ventilated; and environmental conditions, such as the effects of temperature, wind speed, relative humidity, and ventilation rate on NH3 release in the barn. These influential components have been considered by researchers and targeted mitigation strategies have been identified. Despite growing attention to the issue, gaps in the scientific literature were identified and discussed, particularly regarding the analysis of mitigation strategies and their long-term impacts (i.e., environmental, economic and productivity-wise). The purpose of this review is to help improve research into sustainable agricultural practices and technological innovations, which are fundamental to reducing NH3 emissions and improving air quality in agricultural environments.

Exploring sustainable agriculture: Investigating the impact of controlled release fertilizer damage through bonded particle modeling

Controlled release technology of chemical fertilizers is an important cornerstone for the efficient development of sustainable agriculture. Damage to the coating layer and fragmentation of particles during the application of controlled release fertilizers can lead to the loss of their controlled release properties, making the development of effective damage reduction operations a key focus in the study of such agricultural materials. Therefore, this paper employs the bonded particle model (BPM) method within the discrete element method (DEM) framework to investigate the mechanism of coating damage in controlled-release fertilizers. It establishes a classification of damage types based on the level of damaged particles as an effective analytical approach. Furthermore, a comparative analysis is conducted between the discrete element particle model (DEPM) method and the bonded particle model method in terms of their performance in discharge mechanics and flow characteristics. The results indicate that the breakage rate of fertilizer discharge is influenced by both the formation of a steady state and the depletion of the fertilizer load within the container, with an average breakage rate of 1.511% over the total period. Differences in the average maximum compression force and mass flow rate between the discrete element particle model group and the bonded particle model group were 60.355 N and 1.998 g/s, respectively, reflecting limitations imposed by the fertilizer models on expected damage deformation behaviors. This study elucidates the process and potential impacts of fertilizer particle damage and deformation, revealing the strengths and limitations of two simulation model approaches under different application conditions, providing insights for sustainable agricultural production and technological innovation in fertilization equipment.

The road to carbon neutrality in the metallurgical industry: Hydrogen metallurgy processes represented by hydrogen-rich coke oven gas, short-process metallurgy of scrap and low-carbon policy

Abstract With the acceleration of global industrialization, the concentration of carbon dioxide is increasing in the atmosphere, and its negative impacts have seriously affected all walks of human life, so achieving carbon neutrality has become an urgent task for achieving sustainable development. As an important energy-intensive industry, the metallurgical industry occupies an important position in the global carbon-neutral agenda. In China, the metallurgical industry is actively researching and developing a new green metallurgical model of “replacing carbon with hydrogen”, exploring the feasibility of utilizing renewable energy sources to produce hydrogen from electrolysis to reduce iron ore, and at the same time utilizing hydrogen-rich coke oven gas to get rid of the over-reliance on coke; at the same time, the government’s policies provide support and incentives to elevate sustainable development and technological innovation in the metallurgical industry. support and incentives to elevate sustainable development and technological innovation in the metallurgical industry. Against this background, this paper describes the key initiatives taken by the metallurgical industry in the process of achieving carbon neutrality, including the metallurgy using hydrogen processes using hydrogen-rich coke oven gas as a source of reducing gas, short-process metallurgy of scrap, and technology that reduce emissions and save energy. Through case studies and policy analyses of new green metallurgy, this study demonstrates the potential and achievements of the metallurgical industry in achieving global carbon neutrality. It concludes with a call for the metallurgical industry to continue to strengthen innovation and work with governments and academia to pave the way toward carbon neutrality. Through new metallurgical technologies, improved energy and resource efficiency, and sustainable development, the metallurgical industry will make a significant contribution to the goal of global carbon neutrality.

Towards transformative experiential learning in science- and technology-based entrepreneurship education for sustainable technological innovation

Science and technology-based entrepreneurship education (SBEE) is crucial for the valorisation of newly developed fundamental knowledge and innovative technology in science faculties. This is an important factor in enabling science to respond to societal challenges related to sustainability. However, its didactics are currently underdeveloped. Experiential learning plays an important role in SBEE. Against this background, the current study addresses the following research question: What are the specifications of experiential learning for further developing the didactics of SBEE, as identified through systematic assessment? The study reveals that significant improvement is possible when systematic attention is paid to the implementation of four core activities of experiential learning: bringing real-worldness into the learning setting, recognising the ill-defined nature of management problems and entrepreneurial challenges, encouraging involvement in the execution of management interventions, and highlighting the importance of reflection. Furthermore, we draw upon the literature stating that for a transformative experiential learning effect, the sole focus on a business logic in current SBEE needs to be transcended to enable such entrepreneurship and sustainability education to contribute to the kind of out-of-the-box technological innovation solutions required for the current, pressing sustainability challenges that society faces. This study provides the first evidence that dedicated attention to critical reflection is a crucial component in the design of the experiential learning process for science- and technology-based entrepreneurship and sustainability education.

The Use of Big Data Analysis in Digital Empowerment of Sustainable Technological Innovation Management of Ecological Enterprises.

With the social economy's rapid progress and the popularization of environmental awareness, ecological enterprises have gradually become a crucial trend in the development of modern enterprises. This work intends to promote the development of ecological enterprises to a higher level. This work first analyzes the management mode of ecological enterprises in the context of big data in China. Then, it establishes various indicators to analyze the role of sustainable technological innovation in enterprise development and the impact of digital empowerment on enterprise development. Finally, this work takes China's manufacturing industry and ecological enterprises in Hubei Province as examples to summarize the digital empowerment of sustainable technological innovation management of ecological enterprises under the background of big data. The final result indicates that sustainable technological innovation significantly reduces ecological enterprises' resource consumption and waste emissions. Additionally, it has a significant positive effect on improving enterprise output value and economic benefits. The digital empowerment of enterprises has a significant driving effect on sustainable technological innovation, with a digital driving coefficient of 26. This work provides a feasible scheme for the specific application of big data analysis in the technology innovation management of ecological enterprises, including market demand analysis, environmental monitoring and governance, technology assessment and risk management. This work expounds the role of big data analysis technology in improving decision-making efficiency, optimizing resource allocation and enhancing the competitiveness of enterprises in the digital empowerment of ecological enterprises.

The Impact of Digital Trade Barriers on Technological Innovation Efficiency and Sustainable Development

The global digitization trend provides a favorable development environment for the efficient acquisition of knowledge and technology. However, restrictions imposed by countries on digital trade have hindered this trend. This study is based on 60 sample countries to study the impact of the digital trade barrier (DTB) on the technology innovation efficiency (TIE) of each country and the pathways from 2014 to 2020. Research finds that DTB significantly inhibits TIE. Among the five different policy fields that form DTB, Infrastructure and Connecting DTB and Other DTB have the greatest negative impact on TIE. A mechanism analysis found that DTB increases the difficulty of acquiring knowledge spillover and the high cost of research and development, leading to the mismatch and low efficiency of innovation resources, ultimately leading to a reduction in technological innovation efficiency in various countries. Participating in international technological innovation networks and improving technological innovation capabilities have a moderating effect on the aforementioned negative impacts that is beneficial for the sustainable development of national technological innovation. Heterogeneity tests indicate that countries with weaker innovation capabilities, low- and middle-income countries, and countries that have not joined the OECD have a more significant negative impact. This study serves as an important reference for the government to adjust digital trade policies and guide the effective use of external resources for sustainable and efficient technological innovation.

Integrative Digital Governance: The Role of Public Administration in Promoting Sustainable Development amid Post-Pandemic Technological Innovations

Abstract Our study intends to find out how integrative digital governance in public administration can support sustainable development. The Covid-19 pandemic’s effects and current technology developments presented the chance. Mainly qualitative analysis, which included case study analysis and a review of the specialized literature, made up the research approach. Using this approach, we want to find potential approaches to include digital transformation into public administration. Our initial assumption was that the digitalization of public administration might make it easier to accomplish goals related to global development. Based on the findings of our study, we can declare that digitisation of public administration has a great potential to boost effectiveness, openness and civic engagement. Technologies would make participation easier and guarantee equal access for all citizens. All the same, our study emphasizes how complicated digitalization is. This covers the possible hazards connected to digital technology included into systems of public administration. We underline as recommendations the need of implementing a cooperation strategy that includes several activity sectors and degrees of digital governance. Our study has certain limitations mostly because we chose a limited number of case studies. This reality, we think, may affect the general applicability of the obtained results. We advise considering these restrictions in case our study is replicated. Furthermore, we think that the rate at which technology is developing now calls for a constant assessment of the outcomes that are attained by incorporating post-pandemic technological advancements into digital governance. Our study adds value by advancing our understanding of sustainable development in the digital era and by drawing attention to the challenges public administration has in embracing and leveraging digital developments.

A belowground perspective on the nexus between biodiversity change, climate change, and human well‐being

AbstractSoil is central to the complex interplay among biodiversity, climate, and society. This paper examines the interconnectedness of soil biodiversity, climate change, and societal impacts, emphasizing the urgent need for integrated solutions. Human‐induced biodiversity loss and climate change intensify environmental degradation, threatening human well‐being. Soils, rich in biodiversity and vital for ecosystem function regulation, are highly vulnerable to these pressures, affecting nutrient cycling, soil fertility, and resilience. Soil also crucially regulates climate, influencing energy, water cycles, and carbon storage. Yet, climate change poses significant challenges to soil health and carbon dynamics, amplifying global warming. Integrated approaches are essential, including sustainable land management, policy interventions, technological innovations, and societal engagement. Practices like agroforestry and organic farming improve soil health and mitigate climate impacts. Effective policies and governance are crucial for promoting sustainable practices and soil conservation. Recent technologies aid in monitoring soil biodiversity and implementing sustainable land management. Societal engagement, through education and collective action, is vital for environmental stewardship. By prioritizing interdisciplinary research and addressing key frontiers, scientists can advance understanding of the soil biodiversity–climate change–society nexus, informing strategies for environmental sustainability and social equity.

Operationalising ‘One Health’ through Primary Healthcare Approach

Abstract The countries worldwide have recognised the importance of the One Health (OH). This review examines the need and potential for the integration of OH into Primary Health Care (PHC) Approach. One Health through PHC has been implemented in many. Successful initiatives include mobile phone-based surveillance for zoonotic diseases in Kenya, innovative vaccination campaigns in Chad and measures to combat antimicrobial resistance in several nations. Collaboration and partnerships play a pivotal role in overcoming challenges such as resource constraints, policy alignment and limited intersectoral collaboration. The review emphasises integrating OH in primary healthcare so that the healthcare providers can contribute to addressing complex global health challenges and promoting the well-being of individuals, animals and the environment. The sustainable strategies, capacity building, advocacy and technological innovations to effectively implement the OH approach through PHC, ultimately improving health outcomes and ensuring a sustainable planet.

Supporting Sustainable and User-Oriented Educational Technology Innovation with the University Innovation Canvas

Supporting Sustainable and User-Oriented Educational Technology Innovation with the University Innovation Canvas

A Review on the Relationship of Climate Variability and Extremes with Crop Production

Risks are always present in agriculture for a variety of reasons. Climate-related risks are the most significant among them since they can occur unexpectedly and cannot be avoided. The main climatic factors influencing crop productivity are rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and rising atmospheric CO2. The average global temperature is expected to rise by 2oC until 2100, which would result in significant global economic losses. The average global temperature is currently rising steadily. The concentration of CO2, which makes up a large amount of greenhouse gases, is rising alarmingly. Climate change, with rising temperatures and increased greenhouse gas emissions, impacts agriculture significantly, leading to varied crop yields and potentially catastrophic economic consequences. While some regions may experience favorable effects, overall, climate variability poses challenges such as reduced crop productivity, increased pest activity, and elevated food costs, particularly affecting underdeveloped nations. Environmental policies must be adaptable and flexible to mitigate these impacts effectively. Farmers' responses to climate change, influenced by perceptions and data accessibility, drive both mitigation and adaptation efforts. Sustainable agriculture, conservation practices, and technological innovations play key roles in mitigating climate change impacts and enhancing resilience in farming communities, though success depends on multiple factors including local perceptions, technical feasibility, and economic viability. This paper reviews the causes of climate change, the climate variables affecting crop production and the mitigation and adaptation strategies against climate change.

China’s Digital Economy: A Dual Mission of Carbon-Emission Reduction and Efficiency Enhancement

With the introduction of China’s dual carbon goals and the rise of the digital economy as a new model of economic development, the role of the digital economy in achieving green growth is garnering increasing attention. This paper constructs a comprehensive digital economy index, utilizing panel data from 30 provinces in China between 2006 and 2017, and employs the System GMM method to examine the comprehensive impact of the digital economy on low-carbon development from the perspectives of “emission reduction” and “efficiency enhancement”. The primary findings indicate that the digital economy aids China in meeting its dual carbon goals by reducing carbon emissions (CEs) and increasing carbon emissions’ efficiency (CEE). However, this impact varies with different components of the digital economy, and the role of digital finance is limited. This conclusion underscores the necessity of subdividing digital economy indicators. Our conclusions have been substantiated through various robustness checks, including but not limited to the method of distinguishing pure emission reduction from efficiency enhancement. Additionally, our research reveals the dynamic nonlinear effects of the digital economy in promoting emission reduction and efficiency enhancement. Green regulations that exceed a threshold value enhance emission reduction and efficiency, while the impact of sustainable technological innovation may be constrained by changes in policy and market environments. Academically, this study offers a new perspective on the complex relationship between the digital economy and its effectiveness in reducing carbon and enhancing efficiency. From a policy standpoint, it provides insights for China and other countries in advancing energy conservation and emission-reduction initiatives.

Achieving sustainable development with sustainable packaging: A natural‐resource‐based view perspective

AbstractSustainable packaging is a pivotal aspect of sustainable development, involving multi‐faceted issues such as stakeholder management and environmental policy compliance. Despite the efforts to find packaging solutions, the extant literature is largely fragmented, featuring a high level of heterogeneity among studies that spread across different disciplines, with the majority examining important packaging issues in isolation. A study that systematically consolidates findings of different important areas of sustainable packaging implementation is lacking. This challenges companies' adoption of research findings in business strategy development. Thus, this paper conducts a systematic literature review combining keyword co‐occurrence analysis, thematic analysis and qualitative content analysis to uncover major research domains, consolidate important findings and reveal unsolved research gaps, which are crucial to advancing sustainable packaging management. The findings reveal four major research domains: (1) sustainable packaging materials and properties, (2) management practices of sustainable packaging, (3) consumer behaviours towards sustainable packaging and (4) packaging waste management. Drawing on the natural‐resource‐based view (NRBV) theory and the review findings, this study proposes four future research directions: (1) identifying ways to enhance the commercialisation of sustainable packaging technological innovations, (2) uncovering reasons for insufficient social aspect investigation in sustainable packaging research, (3) exploring strategies to enhance stakeholder integration in sustainable packaging management and (4) examining contingency factors of packaging waste management effectiveness. The research agenda is important to provide practical and managerial insights for business strategy development in sustainable packaging to achieve pollution prevention, product stewardship and sustainable development capabilities to gain future growth and competitive advantage.

A comprehensive review of redefining agricultural economics for sustainable development: Overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in a changing world

This paper critically examines the evolving field of agricultural economics and its imperative to transition towards sustainable development. Traditional agricultural practices have often been associated with environmental degradation, resource depletion, and social inequities. This paper reviews the current state of agricultural economics, identifies key challenges, and proposes a framework for redefining the discipline to align with the principles of sustainable development. It provides a comprehensive overview of the topic, demonstrating a clear understanding of the issues and challenges in agricultural economics. It offers valuable insights into the role of agricultural economics in promoting sustainable development and provides a well-structured framework for redefining the discipline to meet the needs of the future. The study highlights the evolving role of agricultural economics in achieving sustainable development, with a focus on both challenges and opportunities. The methods involve a thorough literature review, analyzing principles of sustainable agriculture, economic instruments, technological innovations, and social dimensions. Case studies from diverse regions illustrate successful implementations of sustainable practices. The findings underscore the significance of agroecology, economic incentives, and market mechanisms in promoting sustainable agriculture. Precision agriculture and biotechnology emerge as pivotal technologies, but ethical considerations are paramount. Social dimensions, including rural development and gender equity, play crucial roles in achieving sustainability. The review identifies barriers to adoption and proposes future research directions to advance the field. Overall, the review advocates for a paradigm shift in agricultural economics, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive, interdisciplinary, and sustainable approach to address global challenges and contribute to a more sustainable future.