Colombian Sector Research Articles

Pathways to a net zero building sector in Colombia: Insights from a circular economy perspective

The rapid urbanization and economic growth in Colombia have made the residential sector one of the largest energy and material consumers in the country. Circular economy (CE) strategies are a promising alternative to decouple the sector from resource depletion and climate change. The analysis shown here is based on the RECC model framework, a dynamic material flow analysis (dMFA) model. Our results suggest that by 2050 without CE strategies, residential building stock will reach 2.5 billion m2 and emit between 13 and 25 Mt CO2/yr, depending on whether carbon forest sequestration is included or not. A complete implementation of CE strategies and lower floor space can reduce 2020–2050 cumulative primary material production, waste generation, and GHG emissions by 48, 5, and 49 %, respectively. There is a potential to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 if, in addition to the measures mentioned above, more wood materials and forest sequestration are considered.

Liquidity and Profitability in the Colombian Oil and Natural Gas Extraction Sector: Analysis 2011 – 2021

The dynamics brought about by the adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards have a direct impact on the various Colombian economic sectors; highlighting the Oil and Natural Gas Extraction sector as one of the most important in terms of wealth generation and exports of the nation. For this reason, the present study was directed in order to analyze the indicators of Liquidity and Profitability in the Colombian oil sector between 2011 and 2021. For the development of the study, a quantitative investigation is proposed with a documentary base where it is carried out an analysis of secondary sources from the Superintendence of Companies from which financial data of the Oil and Natural Gas Extraction sector in Colombia is taken, on which a descriptive processing is carried out and subsequently a correlational analysis between the liquidity and profitability indicators. The results show a level of correlation between the liquidity indicators, referring to the Current Ratio and Acid Test, and those of Profitability, Return on Total Assets, and Return on Equity. It is concluded that the correlation between these variables would be explained by the rates and sales volumes of said sector; which constantly carries out transactions of high sums of money accompanied by multiple policies and methods to ensure the transaction and thus not unbalance the receipt of income by the industry.

Organizational conditions associated with the sharing of tacit and explicit knowledge in the financial sector in Colombia

Organizational conditions associated with the sharing of tacit and explicit knowledge in the financial sector in Colombia

The Sustainability of the Therapeutic Cannabis Sector in Colombia

The medical cannabis industry in Colombia is recognized as an emerging industry, and the development of the regulatory framework stimulated the interest of entrepreneurs in creating companies for medicinal purposes. The objective of the work was to examine the key components of the sustainability of the therapeutic cannabis sector in Colombia. In this sense, the study with a mixed approach and analytical scope included a review of the theoretical aspects and regulatory framework. A statistical analysis was carried out to determine the perception of potential clients of the medicinal cannabis industry. A downward projection was found in the number of licenses granted. In conclusion, the therapeutic cannabis sector in Colombia shows promising potential, and its long-term sustainability requires addressing the gaps identified in the implementation of policies, improving social inclusion, promoting innovation for the development of high value-added products, and ensuring environmentally sustainable practices. From a social perspective, the industry promises to generate employment and boost rural development. Environmentally, the industry could contribute to reducing deforestation associated with illicit crops. The sustainability of the sector is an achievable goal, but it will require coordinated efforts in the regulatory, economic, social and environmental spheres to materialize its potential.

Does collaborative governance mediate rural tourism to achieve sustainable territory development? Evidence of stakeholders' perceptions in Colombia

AbstractRural tourism as a diversification strategy might contribute to the sustainability of rural territories in developing countries. However, studies of the forms of how stakeholders relates are required to understand the configuration characteristics of the formal and informal dynamics present at a regional level. This paper explains the mediating role of collaborative governance between rural tourism and sustainable territory development in rural areas through quantitative research using structural equation modeling. The scales were validated by surveying members of civil society, the state, and the productive sector in Colombia. The results confirmed the reliability and validity of the measurement models. Additionally, they validated the dimensions proposed to determine the mediating role of collaborative governance between rural tourism and sustainable territory development. Finally, this document could contributes to a regional consensus on the role of collaborative governance in developing rural tourism actions that significantly promotes the sustainable development of rural territories.

Assessment of energy consumption, environmental effects and fuel costs of the bus rapid transit system in Bogotá (Colombia)

Abstract Colombia aims to boost the utilization of mass transportation systems in its major cities while simultaneously reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20%, in alignment with the commitments of the COP21 agreement. In 2020, the transport sector in Colombia accounted for 34.4% of the country’s energy demand and was responsible for ~49% of its total CO2 emissions. This article presents an assessment of energy consumption, environmental effects and the fuel costs of Bogotá’s bus rapid transit system based on the Activity, Share, Intensity, Fuel methodology. A long-term analysis spanning from 2021 to 2040 was developed using the long-range energy alternatives planning platform. To conduct this assessment, the tool was calibrated using data from 2019 and 2020. Four distinct scenarios based on energy policies implemented in Bogotá were examined: Business as Usual, Fast Transition, High Growth and Low Growth. Regarding energy consumption and environmental effects, the results underscore the pivotal role of diversifying energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels such as oil. Consequently, the analysis emphasizes the urgent need to accelerate the transition to alternative energy sources such as natural gas and electricity.

A Look at Work Safety and Health in Work in the Agricultural Sector in Colombia and Brazil

A Look at Work Safety and Health in Work in the Agricultural Sector in Colombia and Brazil

Analysis of the relationship between the cognitive functions affected by work stress and the psychosocial risk factors of workers in companies in the tourism sector in Colombia: Sincelejo case

Analysis of the relationship between the cognitive functions affected by work stress and the psychosocial risk factors of workers in companies in the tourism sector in Colombia: Sincelejo case

Políticas de fomento e indicadores de productividad de las pymes colombianas mediante análisis envolvente de datos e índices de Malmquist

Purpose: This study aimed to characterize the performance of Colombian Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in recent years, along with the legal framework and central public policies governing and promoting this business segment. In addition, it sought to design, validate, and implement a dynamic system of productivity indicators to help these companies improve their efficiency and competitiveness in the short, medium, and long terms. MSMEs represent approximately 99% of the business sector in Colombia, accounting for nearly 80% of national employment. Design/Methodology: In the initial descriptive–analytical phase, using secondary sources, an analysis was conducted on the performance and current situation of Colombian MSMEs, as well as the main legal provisions regulating and contributing to their development. The subsequent phase (of an applied nature) involved estimating and validating a dynamic system of productivity indicators using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and Malmquist indexes for 2 samples of SMEs. Findings: After conducting the DEA, a significant decrease was observed in the productivity of the MSMEs, particularly in terms of technical efficiency in both the Constant Returns to Scale (CRS) and Variable Returns to Scale (VRS) models. This means that, evaluated both under the CRS and VRS modes, these enterprises use more inputs than necessary for the amount of goods produced. In addition, the Malmquist indexes showed that, during the period under analysis, technical efficiency related to changes in innovation exhibited a positive behavior, attributed to the incorporation of technological changes for improving their productivity. Conclusions: Despite the development of public initiatives and institutional support in recent decades, Colombian SMEs still face adverse conditions that affect their competitiveness and limit their potential in the national economy. The proposed system of indicators, which is based on DEA techniques and Malmquist indexes, holds promise in helping these businesses to improve their productivity. Originality: This study makes a significant contribution to the fields of economics and business management in the region by providing a critical and updated evaluation of the efficiency of MSMEs in Colombia. Additionally, it examines their performance and current situation and summarizes the main legal provisions regulating and contributing to their development in the country.

Application of multivariate statistical methods for decision-making in industrial spare parts inventories case of the automotive sector in Colombia.

This research article delves into the vital importance of inventory control and management, specifically in relation to spare parts used in the maintenance of industrial equipment. Multivariate statistical methods are used to evaluate both the quantities consumed and the frequency of use, with the purpose of effectively classifying spare parts according to their distinctive characteristics. This approach is intended to be an objective guide, contributing significantly to the efficiency and sustainability in the integral management of spare parts inventories.

Model for measuring technological maturity for critical sector industries

This theoretical work addresses the maturity models related to innovation processes that can be applied in critical industries such as the aerospace-defense sector in Colombia. It responds to the need to articulate the local industry, technical and innovation capabilities, regulatory aspects, scalability and the observed market. It proposes a model to measure an innovation process's readiness level in these sectors, applicable to decision-making processes, development centers, and the country's leading sectors. It offers a theoretical basis and a tool to be applied in the decision-making process to help minimize the inherent risks to the innovation process in the sector. The method used was mixed; first, a review of the state-of-the-art and a scientometric analysis was carried out to determine factors subsequently validated by experts, which gave rise to variables with a high degree of relevance in generating innovative products or services. These were modeled through structural equations considering variables covering the innovation cycle, considering market, industry, and technology criteria, which minimize risk until integrating the absorption of the innovative product. Finally, the model was refined through exercises with experts related to the sector from academia, industry, research centers, innovation and the end user of the innovation products. The paper proposes a theoretical measuring model of technological maturity of innovation and a flow chart that could serve as a tool for measuring technological readiness. The model could be a tool for an organization's decision-making, as it visualizes technology, market and regulation as critical factors in the innovation cycle.

Effect of the Addition of Fique Bagasse Cellulose Nanoparticles on the Mechanical and Structural Properties of Plastic Flexible Films from Cassava Starch.

One of the activities most representative of the agricultural sector in Colombia is the production of biodegradable fique fiber. The efficiency of the defiberization process of the fique leaves is very low since a mere 4% of the total weight of the leaf (cabuya) is used and marketed. The remaining 96%, composed of fique juice and bagasse, is considered to be waste and discarded, impacting the environment. The aim of this work was to study fique bagasse as a source of cellulose nanoparticles (CNCs). CNCs were obtained by acid hydrolysis and added at 10% to films made from cassava thermoplastic starch (TPS) by the casting method. Structural changes in the CNCs, TPS, and their mixtures were characterized by FTIR-ATR and their morphology and particle size by SEM and TEM microscopy, respectively. Thermal properties were analyzed using DSC and TGA, along with their effect on mechanical properties. Changes in the FTIR spectra indicated that the chemical method adequately removed hemicellulose and lignin from the fiber surface of fique bagasse. The CNCs showed a diameter and length of 7.5 ± 3.9 and 52.7 ± 18.1 nm, respectively, and TPS 10% CNC obtained an increase in mechanical strength of 116%. The obtainment of CNCs from lignocellulosic materials can thus be viewed as a favorable option for the subsequent reinforcement of a polymeric matrix.

Effective team management in energy transition projects: a perspective on critical success factors. Case of the mining-energy sector in Colombia

In order to protect the environment and guarantee energy security, projects aimed at the energy transition (ET) are increasingly important worldwide. In this framework, three fundamental aspects for team management have been addressed, namely: critical success factors (CSF), barriers and challenges. However, the literature recognizes the need to broaden the empirical base, and as far as is known, in Colombia there is no evidence in this regard. Therefore, this work establishes in an exploratory way, from the perspective of experts in the Colombian mining-energy sector, how to manage these three aspects in ET projects. Among the results, the following stand out: first, the leadership and support of senior management as CSF; secondly, the need for sectoral policies to mitigate the staff turnover barrier; and third, the challenge of establishing strategic alliances with the education sector and leading organizations in conventional energy.

Business competitiveness model based on the value chain for the coking sector in Colombia

The aim of this paper is to propose a model of business competitiveness based on the value chain for the coking sector in Colombia that allows its promotion and strengthening. A systematic review of the literature in the Web of Science and Scopus databases, in the period 2012-2022, was carried out to establish the documentary corpus. The categories of analysis identified converge in the competitiveness based on the value chain from which a model is proposed to integrate: the participation of social actors (government, community, academy, businessmen and unions), primary activities, support and articulate to maintain and improve competitiveness business with direct involvement in the coking sector. As a conclusion, this model contributes to the definition and direction of strategies in the transformation of coke, generating conditions of competitiveness based on customer satisfaction and the strengthening of the sector.

Implications of telework in the mental health of workers in a consulting company in the sector of hydrocarbons

Teleworking has been a novel option for companies, providing advantages in productivity and low costs; however, it has been a chaos to the mental health of staff living situations of distress and depression due to work overload, time management, which has caused affections in their psychological and social area as an individual, being a priority issue of public health. This article aims to analyze the effects of teleworking on the mental health of workers in a consulting company in the hydrocarbon sector in Colombia, with a sample of 30 administrative workers in the management and execution of contracts of Environmental Services and HSE Services in the National territory. Taking a punctual record of the impact of stress and mental health management in their work, a non-experimental type of research of observational transversal cut with descriptive scope was established, taking two types of instruments for its validation, a survey created by the authors that showed medium experience in the use of ICT’s and medium stress causal in the management of information storage tools, and the modified Multidimensional Copyng Inventory (MCI) Scale, obtaining a medium and representative level of use in strategies of Waiting (WT), Religion (REL) and Search for Professional Support (PS), requiring the strengthening of other types of strategies. The research shows the need to potentiate methods aimed at leveling autonomy and productivity with their capacities and skills in formation, harmonizing the space for their family time.

Evaluating low-carbon policy alternatives to support electric vehicle transition: evidence from Bogota-Colombia

The transition from fuel-based vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) is fundamental in the decarbonisation process of countries – it has become an option to reduce greenhouse gases (GHG). This transition involves transformations of the transport sector that are influenced by transport policy. However, policy makers sometimes experience delays in implementing such a policy, which produces drawbacks in the long-term. The paper aims to assess low-carbon policy alternatives for mitigating the delays in the electric vehicles transition, supported by a simulation model. To simulate, the model uses the historical data of pollution and temperature generated by the Bogota’s transport sector in Colombia. Results contribute to understanding the role of low-carbon policy on the reduction of CO2 emissions in the transport sector. Also, a dynamic perspective shows how the EVs transition in the case of Colombia influences on the desired target policy, such as the Paris Agreement and the intergovernmental panel on climate change (IPCC).

Analysis of training effectiveness from the perspective of managers and employees in the Colombian hospitality industry

PurposeThe literature has defined different indicators of training effectiveness. At the performance indicator level of analysis, training effectiveness measures the impact of training on knowledge, skills and job performance. This paper aims to analyse, from the perspective of managers and employees from the hotel sector in Colombia, the relationships between the improvement of knowledge and skills and the improvement of job performance.Design/methodology/approachThe research technique used is a survey. Data are collected from a sample of managers and a sample of employees from the Colombian hospitality industry. The hypotheses are contrasted through regression analysis.FindingsFrom the managers’ perspective, the data indicate a significant relationship between the improvement of knowledge and work performance. In contrast, there is no significant relationship between improving skills and improving job performance. From the employees’ perspective, significant relationships between the improvement of knowledge and the improvement of skills in job performance are revealed.Originality/valueThis work makes significant contributions to the training literature. It analyses the relationships among indicators of training effectiveness from the point of view of managers and employees from the Colombian hotel sector. It reveals differences between the perspectives of managers and employees.

Labor productivity assessment of three different mechanized harvest systems in Colombian oil palm crops

Labor shortages are increasingly problematic in rural areas worldwide and, in particular, in the oil palm sector in Colombia. Therefore, alternative methods and systems that increase labor productivity, such as using machines for collecting and lifting fresh fruit bunches (FFB), are needed. In oil palm cultivation, the most labor-intensive process is harvesting. We aimed to assess the labor productivity (in t · FFB/person/day) of three harvesting systems using mechanized lifting systems (harvest A: manual cutting, manual harvesting using meshes, carts, and livestock and lifting using a hydraulic arm; harvest B: manual cutting, manual harvest using a tractor, and lifting using a side-turning container; and harvest C: manual cutting, mechanized harvest using a tractor-grabber, and lifting using a side-turning container). Two bunch density scenarios were considered. Data were collected from adult palm crops in three oil palm plantations in the Eastern Plains of Colombia, and similar crop yields were obtained. Labor productivity was 1.20–2.53 t · FFB/person/day depending on the FFB density and the harvest system. Finally, the cost per ton harvested was $ 8.9–$ 16.6 per ton, being lower in the systems that demanded fewer personnel. The highest labor productivity and the lowest cost per ton harvested were obtained for harvest C.

Assessment of livestock greenhouse gases in Colombia between 1995 and 2015

The livestock sector in Colombia significantly participates in national economic dynamics but makes significant worldwide contributions to greenhouse gas emissions. Hence, climate change mitigation in this sector is essential. This study aims to assess the greenhouse gas in the livestock sector. The results are reported in methane emissions (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) from enteric fermentation, and N2O by manure management based on the information from the Emission Database for Global Atmospheric Research (EDGAR), in all cases expressed as dioxide of carbon (CO2eq). The emissions obtained from the EDGAR database for 2015 were proportional to the values of the National Inventory of Greenhouse Gases published by the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology, and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) in 2016. Colombia is the 12th on global, 4th in America and 2nd in South America position by livestock GHG emission, and is the dominant source in all economic sector. The results showed higher records for CH4 emissions during the years 2010 and 2015, while the N2O emissions were higher during 2015. The regions with the highest emissions of CH4 and N2O corresponded to the northwestern area of Colombia. The Spearman correlation test showed a positive correlation between the CH4 emissions, and the age groups studied. The post hoc analysis of the Kruskal–Wallis test showed a more significant influence on CH4 emissions.

Truck and Cross-Docking Scheduling in the Flower Export Sector in Colombia

The Colombian flower sector accounts for approximately 4% of the country’s total exports. The logistics of flower exports involve urban or peri-urban internal transport to international airports. Trucks with flowers face major problems related to heavy traffic and long queues at the airport parking areas and unloading docks creating congestion and emissions. We study both a queue management system and a scheduling system for trucks, similar to those used in container terminals, with provisions for road traffic for realistic-sized problems. We used real data from our previous studies and from external sources to test our model. The results are discussed and analyzed, taking into consideration the constraints of the actual airport operations and the flower business. The results show that the current operation of the airport cargo terminal can be significantly improved with both queue management and scheduling systems. We finally discuss the implementation of these two systems.