Sustainable Practices Research Articles

Culture and individual attitudes towards responsible consumption

Purpose This study aims to analyse how cultural and religious values shape individual attitudes towards responsible consumption (RC), with a particular emphasis on contrasting Abrahamic and non-Abrahamic countries. The objective was to find out how adherence to religious beliefs could drive sustainable behaviours as a sure way to achieve sustainable development goals, among them RC and production. Design/methodology/approach The research classifies countries into Abrahamic and non-Abrahamic based on data derived from World Values Surveys from 1980 to 2020. To find out the effect of religious and cultural values on RC behaviours, the authors use a logistic regression model by controlling the sociodemographic variables country, denomination and town size. Findings The findings determined that in Abrahamic countries, high adherence to religious teachings is strongly correlated with positive RC behaviours. In most non-Abrahamic countries, however, while the strength of the effect of cultural values on RC is somewhat diminished, there is potential for a positive shift insofar as the central doctrines of the respective faiths will be adopted more actively by their adherents. Research limitations/implications While this study provides valuable insights into the influence of cultural and religious values on RC, it is limited by its reliance on cross-sectional data, which restricts the ability to infer causality. Future research could benefit from longitudinal studies to track changes over time or experimental designs to test causality more directly. Additionally, the study’s focus on broad religious categories may overlook the nuanced differences within each religious group, suggesting a need for more detailed subgroup analyses. Practical implications The practical implications of such findings lie in the fact that marketers have to design campaigns that relate to the cultural and religious ethos of their target audiences. Therefore, marketing strategies locally practised bring effectiveness in running initiatives meant to be taken for sustainable consumption practices, to develop brand loyalty and to support corporate environmental and social responsibility. Social implications By aligning consumption practices with religious teachings, communities can foster a collective sense of purpose and ethical responsibility. This alignment not only enhances social cohesion but also supports broader social goals such as environmental sustainability and economic moderation. Moreover, by encouraging values like thrift and stewardship, societies can mitigate the adverse effects of consumerism, such as waste and environmental degradation, thus improving the quality of life and fostering a more sustainable future. Originality/value This paper is going to add to the existing literature by identifying how religious teachings can be pivotal for the sustainability of modern times. Its findings provide new insight for policymakers and marketers who are seeking to encourage RC in cultures.

Co-creation dynamics in tourism and hospitality: a horizon 2050 paper

Purpose The evolution of co-creation reflects a shift from a firm-centric to a user-centric and collaborative approach. The purpose of this study is to explore the benefits of co-creation, its potential drawbacks and implications for the tourism and hospitality industry to help frame the concept’s evolution and understand its importance for customizing and personalizing tourism experiences. Design/methodology/approach This conceptual study presents a holistic co-creation framework that encompasses various co-creation formats found over time. This study uses bibliometric analysis and thematic analysis powered by artificial intelligence tools as techniques. Findings Co-creation has transitioned from basic interactions between tourists and providers to sophisticated, technology-driven processes. This paper proposes a future-oriented framework that guides academic research and practical applications, outlining key innovation and sustainable growth areas in the tourism and hospitality sectors, demonstrating how co-creation fosters innovation, enhances consumer engagement and addresses sustainability challenges. Practical implications This study offers actionable recommendations for tourism firms to harness co-creation for hyper-personalized services, sustainability and community involvement. This study emphasizes the role of emerging technologies in shaping innovative and inclusive tourism experiences. Social implications This study promotes sustainable and ethical co-creation practices, highlighting the importance of inclusivity, cultural preservation and community empowerment in tourism development. Originality/value This reflection based on a bibliometric and artificial intelligence analysis helps to project the future developments of co-creation, raising new areas of research and paths to develop new theories and models to explain co-creation processes and outcomes and successfully integrate co-creation in tourism offers.

Millennial behavioral intentions toward socially responsible investment: an application of norm activation model in a developing country

Purpose Sustainable financial practices are integral to achieving the United Nation’s development goals that necessitates the collaborative efforts of both corporate and investors. This study focuses on investors’ pro-environmental personal norms (PN) along with hedonic values on socially responsible investment (SRI) intentions, which could help in understanding investors’ responsiveness to corporate Environmental, Social and Governance efforts. Design/methodology/approach The sample for this study included 415 responses from young millennial investors, using a cross-sectional research design. A two-step structural equation model was used to analyze construct reliability and validity and to test the hypotheses and overall model predictability. The mediating role of ascribed responsibility (AR) between the awareness of consequence (AOC) and PNs was investigated. Findings These results indicate that AOC and AR substantially affect PNs. PNs based on AOC and AR was found to be significant but scored lower than hedonic considerations for SRI. In addition, the relationship between AOC and PNs exhibited a full mediation effect on AR. Practical implications These findings suggest that investors are environmentally conscious when aware of the repercussions of their actions. They feel accountable, even when making financial choices. Fund managers might include more environmentally responsible companies in their portfolios and the government could offer tax incentives to attract investors. The active economic participation of an increasing number of pro-environmental investors can improve the macroeconomic climate. Originality/value This is the first study to use the norm activation model for pro-environmental behavior in a financial setting. Most previous studies have focused on social norms to showcase individuals’ obligation and responsibility for a good cause. However, this study demonstrates the importance of personal moral obligation in shaping societal norms. Hedonism is a new dimension in the context of responsible investment.

Evaluating the impact of ESG on financial risk: the moderating effects of operational ability and profitability in Indonesian infrastructure firms

Purpose This study aims to examine the impact of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices on financial risk, with operational ability and profitability as moderating variables, within the infrastructure sector in Indonesia. Design/methodology/approach The sample consists of 14 infrastructure companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange over the period of 2020–2022, resulting in a total of 42 firm-year observations. The study employs a random-effects model for panel data regression analysis to test the hypotheses. ESG serves as the independent variable, financial risk as the dependent variable, and operational ability (measured by total asset turnover) and profitability (measured by return on assets) as moderating variables. Findings The results reveal that ESG practices have a significant positive impact on financial risk. Furthermore, operational ability negatively moderates the relationship between ESG and financial risk, while profitability positively moderates this relationship. These findings suggest that although higher ESG scores may elevate financial risk due to associated costs and uncertainties, firms with greater operational efficiency and profitability are better equipped to mitigate and manage these risks more effectively. Research limitations/implications This study focuses on infrastructure companies in Indonesia, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to other sectors or geographic regions. Future research could broaden the scope by incorporating diverse industries and cross-country contexts to enhance the robustness and applicability of the results. Practical implications The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and corporate managers. Policymakers can develop frameworks to encourage sustainable practices without imposing excessive financial burdens on companies. Managers can leverage operational efficiency and profitability to integrate ESG practices effectively, thereby balancing sustainability goals with financial performance. Originality/value This study contributes to the scarce literature on the moderating effects of operational ability and profitability on the relationship between ESG practices and financial risk, particularly in the context of the infrastructure sector in Indonesia.

Sustainability Strategy in the Development of Msmes by Bank Indonesia in Increasing Economic Growth by Using Green Economic Policy as an Intervening Variable

Objective: The main objective of this study is to assess the impact of Bank Indonesia's MSME Development program on economic growth, with a specific focus on the role of green economic policies as an intervening variable. This research seeks to identify key factors that contribute to the sustainability and growth of MSMEs in Indonesia. Theoretical Framework: This study draws upon theories of sustainable economic development, focusing on the role of green economics in business sustainability. The framework integrates concepts from corporate sustainability, economic growth, and environmental policy, exploring how MSMEs can leverage green practices to boost economic performance. Method: A mixed-method approach was employed, combining quantitative analysis of survey data and statistical tests with qualitative methods such as interviews and case studies. The quantitative analysis examines the direct and indirect effects of the MSME development program, while the qualitative analysis provides deeper insights into the processes and challenges faced by MSMEs in adopting green economic policies. Results and Discussion: The findings indicate that MSMEs that implement Bank Indonesia's MSME development program experience significant positive effects on economic growth. These effects are further enhanced when green economic policies are incorporated into MSME practices. Specifically, the research identifies several key factors contributing to growth 1.Corporate Structuring: Positive impact on economic growth through the establishment of stronger business foundations, 2.Capacity Building: Expansion of business capabilities leads to improved performance and sustainability,3. Market Expansion: Broader market access fosters economic resilience and growth, 4.Outboarding: The adoption of outboarding strategies leads to improved international competitiveness, 5.Intervening Role of Green Economic Policies: Green policies significantly enhance the effects of MSME development initiatives, contributing to greater economic stability and growth. Research Implications:. This research highlights the importance of integrating green economic policies in MSME development programs, providing a roadmap for policymakers to design sustainable growth strategies. By focusing on sustainability, MSMEs can not only contribute to economic growth but also support broader environmental and social goals.. Originality/Value: This study is one of the first to explore the intersection of MSME development, economic growth, and green economic policies in the context of Indonesia. It contributes valuable insights into how sustainable practices can be integrated into MSME strategies to foster long-term economic resilience..

Assessment of Glyphosate Roundup Turbo (450 g/l) on Haemato-biochemical Indices of Freshwater African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) Fingerlings

The escalating use of glyphosate-based herbicides in agricultural practices has sparked concerns regarding their potential ecological impact. This study undertakes a comprehensive investigation into the acute ecotoxicological effects of a brand-new glyphosate (Roundup Turbo 450 g/l) on haematology and biochemical indices of Clarias gariepinus a commercially vital fish species in Nigeria. Fish were exposed to 0.0 as control, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9 and 1.2 mg/l glyphosate for 96 hours in the laboratory. Water quality parameters monitored were temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen electrical conductivity, nitrate and nitrite. The blood, liver and gills were extracted and analyzed. Haematological and biochemical analyses revealed significant changes (P < 0.05) as concentration increases. The decrease in red blood cell, pack cell volume, haemaglobin and white blood cell was indicative of glyphosate-induced hematotoxicity. Biochemical analyses disclosed alterations in enzymatic activities within liver and gill tissues, including significant increase in alanine aminotransaminases, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase, suggesting hepatic and branchial dysfunction and decrease in total protein, globulin and albumin, showing enhanced disruption in protein synthesis. Glucose and albumin in liver were not detected. Behavioral observations indicated the fish heightened stress response, characterized by erratic swimming patterns, increased agitation, equilibrium loss, hyperactivity and skin erosion. The 96-hour LC50 value for this study was 2.50 mg/l and it highlights glyphosate roundup turbo’s potential to exert detrimental effects on Clarias gariepinus populations. These findings underscore the imperative for sustainable agricultural practices, judicious pesticide management, and rigorous environmental monitoring to mitigate the ecological risks associated with glyphosate use.

Chemical and Physical Analysis of Different Types of Soil in India

This study examines the chemical and physical properties of soils across various regions of India, focusing on their agricultural production and environmental sustainability. Chemical testing revealed notable variations in soil pH and nutrient content. Phosphorus ran from 15 to 47 ppm; potassium from 180 to 270 ppm; nitrogen from 12 to 22 ppm; and pH from 5.4 to 6.8. Revealing the intricate interactions among several components improves correlation analysis and offers important information for the development of concentrated soil management strategies. The soil structure determines water retention capacity and nutrient availability regardless of loam, sand, or clayey. Studies of heavy metals revealed varying degrees of mercury, cadmium, arsenic, and lead all around India. Since it shows the changes in easily available water over time, the moisture content of the soil is vital for irrigation planning and agriculture. Emphasising the need of soil porosity (28.45% to 40.17%) and permeability (7.83 to 11.23 cm/hr) for water movement and root penetration is absolutely vital. These findings support informed decision-making in soil management, promoting sustainable agricultural practices tailored to regional soil characteristics.

СУЧАСНІ ТЕНДЕНЦІЇ ІННОВАЦІЙНОГО РОЗВИТКУ БУДІВЕЛЬНОЇ ГАЛУЗІ УКРАЇНИ: МІЖНАРОДНА ПРАКТИКА

Introduction. In the current context of globalization and integration of the Ukrainian economy into the global space, the innovative development of the construction industry is of particular importance. The development of innovative solutions in construction is becoming a critical factor in increasing the competitiveness of the industry and analyzing advanced innovative technologies used in international practice and the possibilities of their adaptation to Ukrainian realities. The purpose of the article. The purpose of the article is to search for modern trends used in international practice related to the innovative development of the construction industry in Ukraine. Methods. The study of modern trends in the innovative development of the construction industry of Ukraine involves the use of scientific research methods that provide a systematic approach to analyzing the experience of developed countries, which allows obtaining objective results that contribute to the formation of recommendations for the implementation of innovations in Ukraine. Results. The article substantiates that the construction industry of Ukraine is one of the key sectors for economic development and, in the context of globalization and constant economic changes, it needs to be adapted to new realities. It is proved that one of the main factors of sustainable development of the construction industry is the introduction of modern innovations. The successful experience of developed countries in the field of construction is considered, which demonstrates that an innovative approach to the construction process is important for increasing competitiveness, developing infrastructure and improving environmental performance. Such successful experience is determined by the use of innovative technologies, sustainable construction practices, efficient resource management and attraction of international investments. The article provides several examples of successful experience in the field of construction in different countries. Leaders in the development of sustainable construction and energy-efficient technologies, in the use of renewable energy sources for construction, in the application of advanced technologies for the construction of earthquake-resistant buildings, in the creation of a sustainable urban environment through the use of vertical construction and in the integration of various engineering systems in cities are identified. The article determines that for Ukraine, which is undergoing an intensive economic transformation, the issue of introducing international innovations is extremely relevant. The factors that confirm the importance of introducing international innovations into the construction industry of Ukraine are identified. It is substantiated that they are due to the current situation in the country, its economic and social transformations, as well as the challenges facing the national construction sector. Conclusions are drawn that require a focus on the use of energy efficient technologies, smart buildings, sustainable materials, and the integration of digital technologies, which will significantly increase the efficiency of construction processes, reduce costs, and help preserve natural resources. Leveraging international experience in construction will also help Ukraine not only modernize its sector but also become competitive in the global construction services and investment market. Conclusiоns. The unstable economic situation, the consequences of military actions and global environmental challenges create a unique environment in which innovations become not only desirable but necessary, especially in the construction industry.

Water Management of Arabica Coffee Seedlings Cultivated with a Hydroretentive Polymer

The production of high-quality coffee seedlings is essential to meet the demands of the coffee sector, requiring more efficient and sustainable water management practices. In this context, the use of hydroretentive polymers, particularly biodegradable ones, emerges as a promising alternative to optimize water use, reduce the environmental impact associated with synthetic polymers, and improve the agronomic traits of seedlings. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of different irrigation intervals and hydroretentive polymer doses on the water consumption and agronomic characteristics of Coffea arabica L. seedlings. This study was conducted in a protected environment using a randomized block design with split plots and four replicates. The plots consisted of two irrigation intervals (2 and 4 days), and the subplots included four doses of hydroretentive polymer (0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1%), applied in 0.5 dm3 polypropylene bags. Results showed that the 0.5% polymer dose combined with a 2-day irrigation interval resulted in the highest water consumption, while the combination of 0% polymer and a 4-day irrigation interval led to the lowest water consumption. The 0.25% hydroretentive polymer dose with irrigation every 2 days showed the best performance in gas exchange, promoting photosynthesis without causing water saturation. This management also promoted better seedling growth, increasing biomass, height, leaf area, and root volume compared to longer irrigation intervals. The crop coefficients (Kc × Ks) were 0.20, 0.28, and 0.45 during the periods of 0–50, 51–80, and 81–150 days after sowing, respectively. A dose of 0.25% hydroretentive polymer with a 2-day irrigation interval is recommended for the production of Arabica coffee seedlings, contributing to agricultural practices aligned with environmental preservation and productive efficiency.

Building Trust through ESG: A Study on Consumer Behaviour in Sustainable Fashion

Background This study explores the influence of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices on consumer purchasing decisions in the fashion industry. It examines how corporate image and word-of-mouth (WOM) mediate the relationship between ESG practices and consumer trust, impacting purchase intent. Methods A structured questionnaire was distributed online to 393 participants aware of ESG practices, targeting Generation Z consumers. The survey assessed demographics, ESG awareness, brand image, WOM, and purchasing decisions using a Likert scale across five constructs: ESG Practices, Corporate Image, WOM, Trust, and Purchase Intention. Data were analyzed with Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in IBM AMOS, following a two-step process: Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) for validation and path analysis for hypothesis testing. Results The findings indicate that ESG practices significantly enhance corporate image and positive WOM, which, in turn, foster consumer trust. Corporate image has a substantial impact on consumer trust (p < .001), while WOM also contributes to trust (p < .001). Trust was found to be a strong predictor of purchase intention, demonstrating the mediating role of corporate image and WOM between ESG practices and purchasing behavior. Conclusions ESG practices are critical in shaping consumer perceptions and fostering loyalty in the fashion sector. By building a trustworthy corporate image and encouraging positive WOM, fashion brands can effectively influence consumer purchasing decisions. This study highlights the competitive advantage of implementing ESG practices, particularly in appealing to Generation Z consumers who value sustainability and ethical business practices.

Growth Promotion and Secondary Metabolites of Vegetables by Spraying Soil with Psidium guajava, Aloe vera, Allium sativum and Medicago sativa Extracts at Various Stages of Growth

There is a growing need for sustainable, efficient methods to promote plant growth and protect crops, with plant extracts offering natural, multi-component solutions. Based on previous observations, Psidium guajava, Aloe vera, Allium sativum and Medicago sativa were selected from 17 water extracts to investigate how the application times of soil sprays affect the antioxidant enzymes and secondary metabolites in fruity and leafy vegetables at different growth stages. From 1 week after sowing (WAS) to 4 WAS, all applications increased the shoot fresh weight by 42–69% in cucumbers, 40–64% in tomatoes, 46–65% in kale and 42–63% in lettuce. These applications also increased the photosynthesis, flavonoids and antioxidative enzymes (ascorbate peroxide (APOD) and guaiacol peroxidase (GPOD)), which provided the plants with a balanced supply of nutrients essential for growth. In the real world, these results show that the use of natural extracts (P. guajava and A. sativum) can be a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, helping to improve crop yields and metabolism without harming the environment. This approach could reduce the reliance on chemical inputs and promote more sustainable agricultural practices, especially in controlled environments, like greenhouses, where crops like cucumbers and kale are grown.

Exploring the Mediating Role of Information Security Culture in Enhancing Sustainable Practices Through Integrated Systems Infrastructure

The need for sustainable development, coupled with the growth in industrialization, creates a complex environment in which businesses strive to achieve and maintain a competitive advantage. Information now forms a vital part of how firms perform in today’s globalized corporate world. This paper explores the impact of information systems on sustainable organizational operations. Furthermore, it observes how IT infrastructure and information security policy (ISP) play vital roles in the changing business environment. The importance of information security culture (ISC) as a mediator in developing the association between the independent and dependent variables is also investigated. Reviewing these categories’ interactions within the context of transitional economics is the main goal. To assess and predict the impact of ISs, ISP, ITI, and ISC on sustainable organizational performance (SOP), 214 businesses took part in a structured survey. For data cleaning and reliability analysis, SPSS software was used; for mediation analysis, the Preacher and Hayes approach was applied; and, for multiple linear regression analysis, Python was applied. The study is significant for developing countries in the role of IS for the effectiveness of IT governance and strategic integration. The findings indicate that organizational performance is substantially impacted by information security policy (ISP), IT infrastructure (ITI), and information security culture (ISC).

Enhancing supply chain sustainability performance: the pivotal role of emerging technologies

Purpose This study aims to investigate the impact of sustainable supply chain practices on sustainability performance in North American and Canadian firms in a business-to-business (B2B) context, specifically focusing on the mediating role of emerging technologies. It aims to deepen the understanding of this complex relationship, contributing to both theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Design/methodology/approach This study collected data from supply chain managers in the USA and Canada using a mixed-methods approach that includes partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), necessary condition analysis (NCA) and importance-performance map analysis (IPMA). PLS-SEM was utilized to model the relationships between sustainable practices, emerging technologies and sustainability performance. NCA identified the essential conditions required for sustainability performance, while IPMA was used to assess the importance and performance of different constructs, helping to pinpoint areas where the managerial focus can yield the most significant improvements. Findings This study reveals that sustainable supply chain practices (SSCP) alone do not directly lead to enhanced sustainability performance. SSCP includes product design, procurement, investment recovery and social sustainability. Sustainability performance includes economic, environmental and social performance. Instead, adopting specific emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, wearable devices and virtual reality, is crucial. A significant threshold identified is these technologies’ 80% adoption rate for substantial performance improvements. Furthermore, this study distinguishes the varying impacts of different technologies on economic, social and environmental aspects of sustainability. Originality/value This research offers new insights by showing that emerging technologies fully mediate the relationship between SSCP and performance. It expands on existing literature by detailing the specific impacts of various technologies, moving beyond the generalized approach seen in prior research. Specific impacts of emerging digital technologies on SSCP and performance remain underexplored in a B2B environment, and this research aims to address this gap.

Bringing Sustainable Practices, Fashion Shows, and Sociological Insights Together to Reinvigorate Sustainable Fashion Education

This study explores the intersection of sustainable fashion practices, fashion shows, and sociological insights to develop sustainable fashion education. It investigates how sustainable practices are integrated into the fashion industry and education programs. Moreover, it critically analyses the evolving role of the fashion show in a time when sustainability takes a central position. Additionally, this study shows the possibilities and problems presented by the emergence of virtual fashion experiences. The literature review investigates the difficulties the fashion industry faces when moving towards sustainability. It systematically explores a range of innovative solutions put forth by scholars and practitioners. Moreover, this report delves into the core principles of sociological perspectives, particularly in fashion sociology. It explores the emerging trend of virtual fashion, emphasising the essential role that fashion education plays in promoting sustainability awareness among designers, industry professionals, and consumers. Ultimately, this study aims to encourage the fashion industry towards a more sustainable future by decreasing the traditional tensions between sustainability and fashion. It highlights the urgent need for the industry to embrace sustainable practices and prioritise sustainability in fashion education.

Customer experience and sustainability in social, environmental and economic contexts

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to introduce a new conceptual framework that integrates customer experience and sustainability across social, environmental and economic dimensions to facilitate sustainable development. Design/methodology/approach Sustainability is widely recognized from an industrial perspective; however, the relationship between customer experience and sustainability has been limitedly explored in the existing literature. An ethnographic study of two international retail chains has been undertaken, using illustrative case studies to assess the companies’ sustainability practices across social, environmental and economic dimensions. Findings This research emphasizes the importance of enhancing customer experiences to align sustainable practices with consumer expectations. The findings of this study indicate that social sustainability should be prioritized in consumer lives by maintaining high-quality living standards, while environmental sustainability should focus on creating experiences that encourage sustainable lifestyle choices. Economic sustainability should be operationalized by concentrating on mutually beneficial performance areas. Overall, companies must adopt a holistic approach that integrates the social, environmental and economic dimensions into sustainability practices to drive positive customer experiences. Originality/value This study examines the sustainability performance of retail companies across social, environmental and economic dimensions. This study introduces a novel approach to sustainable development through the customer experience perspective.

The framing effect and sustainable hotel booking behaviour: A nudge marketing study

This study examines whether message framing affects visitors' propensity to adopt more sustainable choices by emphasising the possible gains or losses associated with certain behaviours. The research seeks to assess the efficacy of gain-and-loss framing in motivating individuals to book sustainable hotel accommodations while travelling. This article utilises the theoretical frameworks of prospect theory and framing effects. We studied 116 people who booked hotels online in a randomised, controlled study. The three groups consisted of a control group, a gain- frame group informed about the benefits of sustainable hotels, and a loss-frame group informed about the disadvantages of non-sustainable hotels. The significant difference among the three scenarios was evident; the gain-frame effect was more pronounced. Implementing gain-frames may influence consumers' decision-making about more sustainable hotel bookings. This report provides actionable insights for marketers, including successful tactics to communicate hotel companies' sustainable practices and business values. It enhances the existing knowledge by using nudge marketing and framing effects to demonstrate their potential use in encouraging sustainable habits in hotel bookings.

Investigating the Constraints and Mitigation Strategies for the Adoption of Sustainable Land Management Practices in Erosion-prone Areas of Southeast Nigeria.

The adoption of sustainable land management practices (SLMPs) is crucial to improve soil health, and farm yield, and potentially limit the degradation of agricultural and ecological systems. However, farmers still encounter diverse challenges when trying to implement SLMPs. Research on the potential mitigation strategies to address the complex challenges to the adoption of SLMPs in the developing countries context is limited. Accordingly, this study investigates the constraints to adopting SLMPs using household survey data collected from 480 sampled farmers in erosion-prone areas of southeast Nigeria. Also, through focus groups and interviews with key stakeholders in the land sector, the study investigates the potential mitigation strategies to address the constraints. Descriptive statistics were used to explore the characteristics of the farmers, while Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to analyse the constraints to the adoption of SLMPs. The qualitative data collected were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. The PCA result identified economic/financial factors as the principal constraint to the adoption of SLMPs. Other barriers to the adoption of SLMPs in the study area include constraints related to the characteristics of the SLMPs, institutional constraints and constraints related to land property rights. Based on the stakeholders' perspectives, financial and economic support, improved R&D, knowledge exchange and advisory system, policy and regulatory solutions, and multi-stakeholder engagement are important strategies to tackle the constraints to the adoption of SLMPs. Insights from this study could help practitioners, conservation planners and policymakers design more targeted and effective interventions to promote the widespread adoption of SLMPs.

Agricultural Transformation and its Contribution to Economic Development in South Asian and African Countries

Agricultural transformation is central to economic development, driving modernization, productivity enhancement, and integration into broader economic systems. This study compares South Asia and Africa, analyzing their distinct trajectories influenced by sustainable practices, policy reforms, and technological advancements. In South Asia, agricultural employment declined sharply, with Bangladesh dropping from 80% in 1973 to 35% in 2023, and India from 70% to 37%. Africa saw a more gradual decline, from 70% to 48% during the same period. Productivity improvements highlight regional progress, with agricultural productivity growth rising in Bangladesh (3.3% to 4.1% by 2023) and Kenya (3.3% to 4.1%), while manufacturing productivity surged in Kenya (6.6%) and India (5.2%). South Asia's growth leverages high-yield crops and market integration from the Green Revolution, while Africa focuses on climate-smart agriculture, diversification, and community-based solutions to address climate vulnerabilities and infrastructure gaps. Both regions emphasize sustainability as a resilience strategy. Using a four-stage paradigm of agricultural transformation, the study underscores the significance of transitioning from subsistence to high-value, technology-driven agriculture for economic diversification and resilience. By analyzing labor productivity, GDP per capita, and crop production indices, the research demonstrates agriculture's critical role in fostering sustainable development and economic growth across both regions.

Sustainable synergy: exploring the nexus of green initiatives and digitalization in gulf countries – a comprehensive study on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) indicators

Purpose This research investigates the trajectory of Gulf region, focusing on the interplay between environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors and key elements – digital economy, green economy (GE), green finance, green energy and green innovation. This study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how Gulf economies align their developmental pursuits with sustainability principles amidst the rapid evolution of digital technologies. Design/methodology/approach A data set of 95 listed companies from six Gulf Cooperation Council countries – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates – from year 2016 to 2022 was compiled from reputable sources. Using fixed effect regression techniques, this study explores relationships, accounting for individual and time-specific variations. Findings This study indicates that key factors – digital economy, GE, green energy and green innovation – significantly influence ESG performance across Gulf nations underscoring the potential for strategic integration of these elements to enhance sustainable practices. However, the nonsignificant impact of green finance highlights a need for further exploration and refinement of financial mechanisms to effectively contribute to ESG goals in the Gulf region. Research limitations/implications The findings underscore the importance for Gulf policymakers to prioritize ongoing support and policy formulation fostering digitalization and green initiatives. Businesses in the region can enhance ESG performance by integrating sustainable practices, promoting long-term resilience and reputation. Investors and financial institutions can use these insights to guide investment decisions, prioritizing projects contributing to environmental sustainability and social responsibility. Originality/value Amidst the current sustainability imperative, this research holds unique value in its timely exploration of the Gulf region’s sustainable landscape, providing crucial insights into the interplay between ESG factors and digital and green initiatives.

Unveiling the Dynamics of Sustainable Development: A Holistic Examination of Green Organizational Learning, Innovation, and Performance in Indian SMEs

ABSTRACTThis study examines the relationships between Green Organizational Learning (GOL), Green Organizational Innovations (GOI), and Organizational Performance (OP) in the manufacturing sector of Jammu and Kashmir. This region is known for its ecological vulnerability and recent shifts towards sustainable practices. The research involved a survey of 470 manufacturing firms using a simple random sampling technique. The study examines how organizations' engagement in environmental sustainability learning and innovation practices influences their performance. The SEM findings revealed a significant positive relationship between GOL and GOI and between GOI and OP. This suggests that adopting green innovations mediates the pathway through which learning about sustainability translates into performance gains. This study highlights the importance of fostering a culture of sustainability‐oriented learning to spur innovation and enhance organizational performance. It also suggests that green innovations serve not just as a direct catalyst for improved performance but as a bridge, that amplifies the impact of organizational learning on performance outcomes. The study offers valuable insights for managers and policymakers who aim to integrate environmental sustainability into their strategic objectives, thereby contributing to global sustainability efforts and achieving competitive advantage.