Social Responsibility Research Articles

Industry innovation, corporate social responsibility, and risk management of coal enterprises in Shanxi Province: Basis for an environmental management performance framework

Industry innovation, corporate social responsibility, and risk management of coal enterprises in Shanxi Province: Basis for an environmental management performance framework

Ethical Perceptions and Trust in Green Dining: A Qualitative Case Study of Consumers in Missouri, USA

This qualitative case study explores Missouri-based consumers’ ethical beliefs regarding restaurant sourcing from minority farmers. Guided by the Hunt–Vitell theory of ethics (H-V model), it applies the model in a new context: culturally inclusive restaurant sourcing. Based on 15 semi-structured interviews conducted between September 2024 and October 2024, the study explores how ethical beliefs shape dining intentions. Participants generally viewed support for minority farmers as ethically appropriate. Thematic analysis revealed six key themes: (1) community-oriented social values (e.g., social responsibility toward local businesses); (2) cultural identity (e.g., traditional farming methods); (3) consumer values—food-oriented (e.g., quality); (4) consumer values—people-oriented (e.g., financial support for ethical sourcing); (5) trust-building mechanisms (e.g., sourcing transparency); and (6) barriers (e.g., lack of awareness). These findings highlight limited consumer awareness of minority farmers and the need for transparent communication and cultural education. The study contributes theoretically by extending the H-V model to the intersection of ethics, culture, and restaurant sourcing. Practically, it offers guidance for restaurant managers, marketers, and policymakers to support minority farmers, build trust, and promote inclusive and socially responsible dining. One key limitation of this study is its reliance on a small, Missouri-based consumer sample, which limits generalizability and excludes perspectives from other stakeholders. However, as a regional case study, it provides important depth and contextual insight into an underexplored aspect of sustainable sourcing. This study also highlights the need for multi-stakeholder engagement to advance equity in the food system.

Strategic Educational Management of Jamb-prescribed Literature Texts for Cultivating Moral and Social Responsibility in Nigerian University-bound Students

This study investigates the strategic educational management of JAMB-prescribed literary texts in Nigerian secondary schools, focusing on their potential to foster students’ moral and social development. Using a quantitative approach, the research surveyed 100 literature teachers and school administrators across Enugu State and conducted thematic literary analyses of five JAMB texts: Sweet Sixteen, The Life Changer, In Dependence, The Last Days at Forcados High School, and Lekki Headmaster. Findings reveal a moderate but uneven implementation of value-based literary instruction, there is awareness of moral themes but inconsistent integration into classroom practices. Key challenges include exam-centric teaching cultures, insufficient teacher training, and administrative neglect of the JAMB texts, which are often relegated in favor of WAEC and NECO syllabi. Despite these challenges, the study found strong stakeholder support for strategic reforms that align literature instruction with moral education goals. Recommendations include collaborative training by JAMB and the Ministry of Education, policy reforms that emphasize moral teaching, and the integration of literature into broader civic and character education initiatives. The study concludes that repositioning JAMB texts as tools for cultivating ethical consciousness can enhance national values education and better prepare students for responsible university life.

Fostering Investigative Journalism in the Arab World: Case Study of Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ)

ABSTRACT Since it was founded in Jordan in 2005, the nonprofit Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ) organization has contributed to advancing the field of investigative journalism in the Arab region. This case study examines ARIJ's role in offering guidance and support to Arab investigative journalists. The paper analyzes ARIJ's efforts to foster an investigative journalism environment and how it balances freedom of speech with social responsibility. This study uses a mixed-method approach: Firstly, a historical overview of ARIJ's establishment and evolution is presented, emphasizing the development of its activities and projects. Secondly, ARIJ's support to investigative reporters is examined by categorizing the types of workshops they offer and comparing the themes addressed in its annual forums (2008–2023). Next, a content analysis of the 46 “ARIJ Impact” news stories examines the tangible impacts of ARIJ-supported investigative reports. The research also relies on interviews conducted with two members of the ARIJ team and two experts in the field. This research offers insight into the role ARIJ has played in empowering Arab investigative journalists and the impact this has had in relation to social responsibility theory.

How does virtual co-creation of destination social responsibility affect consumer attitudes: the role of narrative transportation

ABSTRACT Virtual co-creation is emerging as a new form of consumer participation in destination social responsibility (DSR). However, existing research lacks sufficient insights into how this form of participation affects consumers’ psychological perceptions and destination brand attitudes. Drawing on the lens of narrative transportation, this study explores how virtual DSR co-creation impact destination brand attitude. Through three scenario-based experiments, this study found that virtual DSR co-creation can promote destination brand attitude, with narrative transportation mediating this relationship. Furthermore, the results revealed that the mediating effect of narrative transportation is moderated by narrative structure. The findings provide theoretical and practical implications for tourism destinations to manage social responsibility communication.

Baseline-dependent network reactivity to visual input in children with autism spectrum disorder: a magnetoencephalography study

Background/aimsNeuroimaging studies suggest altered functional brain organization in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly in response to visual stimulation. However, how transitions between different visual states modulate brain network in ASD remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate how transitioning from minimal visual input (fixation in a dark room, DR) to a silent video (eyes open, EO) alters functional brain networks in children with ASD compared with their typically developing (TD) peers.MethodsWe analyzed magnetoencephalography (MEG) data from children with ASD (n=23) and TD children (n=31), aged 3–10 years. MEG signals were mapped to 68 cortical regions using the Desikan–Killiany atlas, and functional connectivity was assessed using the phase lag index across five frequency bands (delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma). Graph theoretical analyses quantified the clustering coefficient (C), characteristic path length (L), and small-worldness (SW) to evaluate network organization.ResultsBoth groups exhibited increased alpha-band clustering coefficients under EO. Notably, baseline (DR) graph metrics predicted EO-induced changes, with higher initial values associated with smaller subsequent increases. Diagnosis-by-condition interactions emerged in the delta and beta bands: children with ASD exhibited more pronounced increases in SW from DR to EO, whereas TD peers showed more modest or opposite shifts. Within the ASD group, larger beta-band SW increases correlated with greater autistic trait severity (Social Responsiveness Scale), whereas in TD children, delta-band increases associated with milder autistic-like traits.ConclusionThese findings reveal age- and diagnosis-specific differences in how visual stimulation reshapes functional brain network organization. They also highlight the potential of network metrics as biomarkers for ASD, though validation in larger, more diverse cohorts is needed to establish clinical relevance.

Revitalisasi Amaliyah Tasawuf KH. Muslih Mranggen dalam Pendidikan Karakter Santri Era Modern

Amaliyah tasawuf constitutes an integral part of the Islamic spiritual tradition, playing a significant role in shaping the character and personality of santri (Islamic boarding school students). KH. Muslih Abdurrahman Mranggen, a prominent tarekat scholar and founder of Pesantren Futuhiyyah, developed a tasawuf-based education system through practices such as zikir, riyāḍah, wirid, and khalwat, which serve as instruments for spiritual development. This study aims to examine the forms of amaliyah tasawuf taught by KH. Muslih and explore their relevance to character education in the modern era. A qualitative approach was employed, using library research and interviews as the primary data collection methods. The findings reveal that KH. Muslih’s tasawuf practices contribute significantly to strengthening spiritual dimensions and fostering the character of santri, emphasizing values such as patience, sincerity, humility (tawāḍuʿ), and social responsibility. These tasawuf practices extend beyond personal piety, encouraging the internalization of moral values in the social lives of students. The study concludes that revitalizing the tasawuf-based values of KH. Muslih is highly relevant in addressing the moral degradation challenges faced by today’s youth and can serve as a foundational model for designing character education systems rooted in Islamic spirituality.

How far in business performance are Gauteng construction SMMEs from applicable best practices?

Small, Micro- and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) play a significant role in most world economies, particularly in developing countries. South Africa’s SMMEs demonstrate a high failure rate and do not seem to match the performances of applicable best practices. Regarding construction SMMEs, these issues are particularly noticeable. This study wants to investigate the level of performance of SMMEs in the construction industry of the Gauteng Province in South Africa as compared to SADC and best practices by addressing the research question, “To what extent do Gauteng construction SMMEs deviate from global best practice and SADC measures in terms of performance metrics?”, using regional and global lenses. The study design was cross-sectional qualitative based on secondary data. The targeted study population consisted of registered Gauteng construction SMMEs, and SADC and global best practices benchmarks were used for measuring these performances. The study found the Gauteng construction SMMEs were not engaging in social responsibility, and were lacking the most in business results, policy and strategy, processes, and in people management.

Pre-Service Secondary Teachers’ Views on Educators’ Roles and Qualities

Objectives The purpose of this study is to explore the subjective perceptions of pre-service secondary teachers regarding the roles and qualities of teachers. Methods The study employed Q methodology, which combines qualitative and quantitative approaches to analyze subjective perspectives. A total of 37 pre-service secondary teachers participated in Q-sorting, ranking 40 statements related to educators’ roles and qualities. Factor analysis was conducted to classify distinct teacher types based on their responses. Results Three teacher types emerged: (1) Reflective Traditionalist Educators, who emphasize traditional teaching values and student relationships while showing resistance to technology integration; (2) Ethical Visionary Leaders, who prioritize ethical guidance, moral reasoning, and subject expertise over technological advancements; and (3) Socially-conscious Mentors, who focus on addressing social issues such as school violence and multicultural education, with a moderate acceptance of digital tools for student engagement. The findings suggest that pre-service teachers place greater emphasis on ethics and social responsibility than on digital competency. Conclusions The study highlights the need for tailored professional development programs that address each teacher type's specific needs. While Korean educational reforms stress digital competency, pre-service teachers' perspectives indicate a gap between policy and practice. Teacher training programs should integrate ethical, social, and technological competencies in a balanced manner to better prepare future educators.

From Grassroots to Policy Kodomo-Shokudo (Children’s Cafeterias) Coordinators and the Making of an Inclusive Place for Everyone

This study analyses the development and expansion of Kodomo-Shokudo (children’s cafeterias) in Japan, examining them within international initiatives to support children and youth. Kodomo-Shokudo is a grassroots, community-based initiative that primarily offers free or low-cost meals to children, addressing child poverty and food insecurity. These cafeterias have evolved beyond basic food provision, increasingly vital community hubs that foster social inclusion, provide a sense of belonging (‘Ibasho’) and create intergenerational connections. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, including a comparative analysis of international children and youth support programmes, to identify similarities and unique aspects of the Kodomo-Shokudo model. This analysis draws on the existing literature and data from public institutions and relevant organisations. This study also incorporates qualitative research, semi-structured interviews with practitioners and support members, and participant observation in Kodomo-Shokudo and support organisations. The findings reveal that Kodomo-Shokudo shares common goals with international programmes addressing child food insecurity and offering after-school activities. Nevertheless, they are distinguished by their strong emphasis on community-led initiatives, multi-generational interaction, and the concept of ‘ibasho’—a place where individuals can feel truly comfortable and accepted. This study identifies key characteristics of Kodomo-Shokudo organisers as social innovators, emphasising empathy, social responsibility, inclusivity, and altruistic leadership. The concept of ‘response-ability’ is introduced to understand their active engagement, ethical orientation, and relational approach to addressing community needs.

Enhancing Work Productivity: The Role of Work-Life Balance, Job Stress Management, Job Satisfaction, and Environmental, Social, and Governance Integration

This study investigates the impact of work-life balance, stress management, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) integration on employee productivity in Bandung's hospitality sector, focusing on the mediating role of job satisfaction. The study examines 19 five-star and 94 four-star hotels, with a population of 226 general managers, managers, and supervisors. A sample of 183 respondents was determined using Slovin’s formula with 0.05 margin of error, and data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS). The findings confirm that job satisfaction significantly mediates the relationship between work-life balance, stress management, and productivity. ESG integration, encompassing social and environmental responsibility, further enhances productivity by strengthening these relationships. This study extends the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model, showing that ESG practices serve as additional job resources that reduce stress and improve job satisfaction, ultimately boosting productivity. This research highlights the need for supportive work-life balance policies, effective stress management, and ESG integration to enhance employee well-being and productivity. The study offers strategic insights for academia and industry, supporting sustainable HR practices in hospitality. A holistic approach integrating work-life balance, stress management, job satisfaction, and ESG policies is essential for improving productivity and ensuring sustainability.

Tracing online flood conversations across borders: a watershed-level analysis of geo-social media topics during the 2021 European flood

Abstract. In the face of rapid population growth, urbanisation, and accelerating climate change, rapid and accurate disaster detection has become critical to minimise human and material losses. In this context, geo-social media (referring to georeferenced social media posts) data have proven to be a sensible data source for tracing disaster-related conversations, especially during flood events. However, current research often neglects the relationship between information from social media posts and their corresponding geographical context. In this paper, we examine the emergence of disaster-related social media topics in relation to hydrological and socio-environmental features at the watershed level during the 2021 western European flood, while focusing on transboundary river basins. Building on an advanced machine-learning-based topic modelling approach, we show the emergence of flood-related geo-social media topics in both river-basin-specific and cross-basin contexts. Our analysis reveals distinct spatio-temporal dynamics in the public discourse, showing that timely topics describing heavy rainfall or flood damage were closely tied to immediate environmental conditions in upstream areas, while post-disaster topics about helping victims or volunteering were more prevalent in less affected areas located in both upstream and downstream areas. These findings highlight how social media responses to disasters differ spatially across watersheds and underscore the importance of integrating geo-social media analysis into disaster coordination efforts, opening new opportunities for transboundary collaborations and the coordination of emergency response along border-crossing rivers.

Exploring confidence development in interprofessional teams: A pre-post analysis of a health and social care education module

Aim Confidence can be defined as a strong belief, firm trust, or sure expectation in relation to achieving an outcome. The study aimed to examine change in confidence to collaborate in teams in undergraduate health and social care students undertaking a mandatory 6-week IPE module using the Team Observed Professional Encounter (TOSPE). Method A pre-test post-test study was undertaken. Confidence was measured using the validated Interprofessional Education Academic Behavioural Confidence Scale. Independent t-tests and Analysis of Variance were used to establish differences between groups at the commencement of the study. To compare pre and post confidence scores paired t-tests were used for normally distributed data, and Wilcoxon signed rank test were undertaken for non-normally distributed data. Cohen’s d and Pearson r were produced as measures of effect size. A mixed design Analysis of Variance was conducted to examine the influence of categorical variables on changes in confidence scores. Results Data were included from 80 matched pairs. Pre-test self-perceived scores for Total Confidence and the subscales for Interprofessional Team Working, Interprofessional Communication and Behaviours Underpinning Collaboration increased significantly (p = < .001) post module completion. Changes in scores demonstrated large effect sizes for total confidence (d = .888), Interprofessional Team Working (d = .872), Interprofessional Communication (d = .945) and a medium effect size for Behaviours Underpinning Collaboration (r = .534). Time was found to be the only categorical variable that had a significant effect on confidence (p < 0.05). Conclusion Post-intervention student confidence increased significantly for total confidence and all subscales of the IPE ABC scale. When considering between subject effects only time was found to demonstrate significant results indicating an association between the IPE intervention and increased self-perceived confidence. However, it should be noted that other factors such as small subgroup sample size, social desirability response bias and potential overconfidence bias may impact the results observed, so caution in interpretation of the results considering these limitations are advised. This study adds to the body of literature that suggests IPE interventions impact positively on behaviours that underpin collaborative practice.

Exploring confidence development in interprofessional teams: A pre-post analysis of a health and social care education module

AimConfidence can be defined as a strong belief, firm trust, or sure expectation in relation to achieving an outcome. The study aimed to examine change in confidence to collaborate in teams in undergraduate health and social care students undertaking a mandatory 6-week IPE module using the Team Observed Professional Encounter (TOSPE).MethodA pre-test post-test study was undertaken. Confidence was measured using the validated Interprofessional Education Academic Behavioural Confidence Scale. Independent t-tests and Analysis of Variance were used to establish differences between groups at the commencement of the study. To compare pre and post confidence scores paired t-tests were used for normally distributed data, and Wilcoxon signed rank test were undertaken for non-normally distributed data. Cohen’s d and Pearson r were produced as measures of effect size. A mixed design Analysis of Variance was conducted to examine the influence of categorical variables on changes in confidence scores.ResultsData were included from 80 matched pairs. Pre-test self-perceived scores for Total Confidence and the subscales for Interprofessional Team Working, Interprofessional Communication and Behaviours Underpinning Collaboration increased significantly (p = < .001) post module completion. Changes in scores demonstrated large effect sizes for total confidence (d = .888), Interprofessional Team Working (d = .872), Interprofessional Communication (d = .945) and a medium effect size for Behaviours Underpinning Collaboration (r = .534). Time was found to be the only categorical variable that had a significant effect on confidence (p < 0.05).ConclusionPost-intervention student confidence increased significantly for total confidence and all subscales of the IPE ABC scale. When considering between subject effects only time was found to demonstrate significant results indicating an association between the IPE intervention and increased self-perceived confidence. However, it should be noted that other factors such as small subgroup sample size, social desirability response bias and potential overconfidence bias may impact the results observed, so caution in interpretation of the results considering these limitations are advised. This study adds to the body of literature that suggests IPE interventions impact positively on behaviours that underpin collaborative practice.

The Influence of Green Accounting, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Intellectual Capital Implementation on Financial Performance of Energy Sector Companies Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2017-2023

This study aims to test and analyze the effect of green accounting, corporate social responsibility performance, and intellectual capital on financial performance with a proxy of net profit margin in energy sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2017-2023. This type of research is quantitative descriptive study, using purposive sampling technique as a sample selection technique. The number of samples used was 9 with the number of observations because 63, then the data was processed with eviews 12. The results of the statistical test show that green accounting has a negative but insignificant effect on net profit margin. Furthermore, Corporate Social Responsibility, intellectual capital have a positive but insignificant effect on net profit margin, and compliance with regulations have a significant positive effect on net profit margin. Keywords: Green Accounting, Corporate Social Responsibility, Intellectual Capital, Financial Performance.

Effects of Environmental Profile and CSR Reporting on the Cost of Capital of Firms in the Tourism Sector

The Hotel and Tourism industry contributes substantially to the global Gross Domestic Product, which increases economic growth through tax revenues, employment opportunities, and private capital investments. However, this industry is also responsible for depleting natural resources and contaminating water and waste. Hence, this study contributes to the extant research by examining the relationship between sustainable behavior (measured using three proxies —i.e., environmental performance scores, carbon emissions, and the issuance of a corporate social responsibility report) and the cost of equity of a sample of global firms, using data from 2011 to 2022. Our results confirm that sustainable companies in this industry benefit from lower cost of capital. The contribution of this paper is valuable, as it may raise awareness in the industry about the positive financial outcomes that can be achieved when companies align their strategies with the UN Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Sustainable Strategies to Reduce Logistics Costs Based on Cross-Docking—The Case of Emerging European Markets

Cross-docking operations in Eastern and Central European markets face increasing complexity amid persistent uncertainty and inflationary pressures. This study provides the first comprehensive comparative analysis integrating economic efficiency with sustainability indicators across strategic locations. Using mixed-methods analysis of 40 bibliographical sources and quantitative modeling of cross-docking scenarios in Bratislava, Prague, and Budapest, we integrate environmental, social, and governance frameworks with activity-based costing and artificial intelligence analysis. Optimized cross-docking achieves statistically significant cost reductions of 10.61% for Eastern and Central European inbound logistics and 3.84% for Western European outbound logistics when utilizing Budapest location (p &lt; 0.01). Activity-based costing reveals labor (35–40%), equipment utilization (25–30%), and facility operations (20–25%) as primary cost drivers. Budapest demonstrates superior integrated performance index incorporating operational efficiency (94.2% loading efficiency), economic impact (EUR 925,000 annual savings), and environmental performance (486 tons CO2 reduction annually). This is the first empirically validated framework integrating activity-based costing–corporate social responsibility methodologies for an emerging market cross-docking, multi-dimensional performance assessment model transcending operational-sustainability dichotomy and location-specific contingency identification for emerging market implementation. Findings support targeted infrastructure investments, harmonized regulatory frameworks, and public–private partnerships for sustainable logistics development in emerging European markets, providing actionable roadmap for EUR 142,000–EUR 187,000 artificial intelligence implementation investments achieving a 14.6-month return on investment.

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND GREEN FINANCE ADOPTION: MEDIATING ROLE OF CSR AND MODERATED BY PROJECT MANAGEMENT MATURITY

The transition toward environmentally sustainable financial systems has become a strategic imperative for organizations, particularly in emerging economies where climate vulnerabilities are high and institutional support is limited. This study examines how digital transformation drives green finance adoption among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan, emphasizing the mediating role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the moderating influence of Project Management Maturity (PMM). Guided by the Dynamic Capabilities Theory (DCT), the research posits that green finance adoption is not merely a technological outcome but a dynamic capability shaped by ethical commitment and organizational execution capacity. Adopting a quantitative, cross-sectional design, data were collected from 375 SME managers through structured questionnaires. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS 4 was employed to test the hypotheses. The results revealed a significant positive effect of digital transformation on green finance adoption, affirming the role of digital technologies in enhancing sustainability practices. CSR was found to mediate this relationship, illustrating that ethical and social responsibility practices are essential in translating digital capacities into green finance behaviors. PMM demonstrated a significant negative moderating effect, indicating that high levels of formalized project structures may limit the agility needed for effective green finance implementation. The study extends theoretical discourse by integrating digital, ethical, and managerial dimensions into a unified framework for understanding green finance behavior. Keywords: Digital Transformation, Green Finance Adoption, Corporate Social Responsibility, Project Management Maturity, Dynamic Capability Theory

Meaning before Making

This paper explores the use of propositional design and digital tools for sustainable material and immaterial value creation in fashion design. Stuart Walker argues that within the current capitalist system, it is ‘virtually impossible for the discipline of design to effectively and substantially address the interrelated issues of environmental responsibility, social obligation and personal meaning’ (Walker, 2013). Propositional design objects are not design solutions but are concerned with ‘challenging conventions, positing questions, and offering directions for reform.’ Walker calls this ‘non-commercial, academic, research-based designing’ (Walker, 2013) propositional design. Alongside the increasing drive for more sustainable systems for fashion, digital tools have begun to change the way that fashion design is enacted. There has been a significant shift from the traditional physical craft skills of pattern cutting and sewing, to the use of software and digital spaces, used in tandem with the traditional fashion design studio environment. Software such as CLO3D allows for accurate patterns to be created digitally, emailed, and exported anywhere with an internet connection. Together with the changing context of the fashion industry and the growing desire to reduce waste, lower consumption, and redefine our relationship to clothes, these digital spaces provide new ways of thinking about and creating value. Propositional design approaches free the fashion designer to venture beyond aesthetics into systems-led thinking for radical sustainable change.

CSR Campaign: Raising Public Awareness of Health at the World Diabetes Day Event

One of the ways the companies use to make a decent society is through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) campaigns. This research analyzes the CSR program of PT Nutrifood, in the World Diabetes Day 2024 in disseminating the importance of diabetes. As part of a qualitative approach combined with descriptive analysis, this paper discusses the effect of the campaign on the public knowledge and practice towards health as a way of life. One of the projects to this campaign is the campaign to educate people, through “1 Month of Reducing Sugar Consumption” activities, aiming to raise awareness of society about the mindful control of sugar consumption, every day. The findings of this study indicated that the CSR activity in the form of the campaign “I Give My #Hands4Diabetes In World Diabetes Day 2024” could improve public concern about the balance diet, sugar consumption, and the support to involve in health activities. It also helped build up company's brand and customer loyalty. By practicing the Triple Bottom Line (Profit, People, and Planet), PT Nutrifood doesn’t only concentrate on financing, but also contributes to improving social welfare and preserving the environment.