ESG is emerging as a new non-tariff barrier. When comparing large enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), it is true that there is a significant gap in ESG response. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the strategic priorities and practical items for ESG management of SMEs. In particular, the study aimed to identify the priorities of E, S, and G as perceived by export SMEs in South Korea and to evaluate the importance and differentiation of each practical item. To this end, expert interviews and the SMART technique were used to derive detailed ESG items, and their priorities were evaluated using AHP and IPA methods. The study results showed that the strategic priorities at Level 1 were in the order of Environment, Social, and Governance. The strategic priorities for major items within ESG at Level 2 were derived as efforts for transparent management and efforts to establish an eco-friendly supply chain. Finally, the strategic necessity of internalizing the current ESG strategies, which are centered on large companies, into export SMEs and the need for government policy support to establish an eco-friendly supply chain were identified. These study results are consistent with the IPA results. This study is significant in that it derived the strategic priorities and practical items of ESG for Korean export SMEs. However, the limitation of this study is that it was confined to Korean export SMEs, and it is suggested that the scope be expanded to include large enterprises and mid-sized companies in the future.

The paper analyzes theoretical foundations of the concept of the closed-loop economy, reveals the principles of the circular economy using the example of the steel industry, and studies the experience of the People's Republic of China in “greening” the economy, considers the consequences of economization for the China's ecosystem and the main provisions of the China's “ecological civilization”, and gives the structure of the China's circular economy. The purpose of the study is to analyze the implementation of the concept of a circular economy in the steel industry using the example of the Chinese economy. Materials and methods. The paper analyzes the theoretical basis of the concept of sustainable development and circular economy. Based on the study of statistical data, information presented on the official websites of organizations, a review of scientific literature, the practice of applying the principles of closed-loop economy in the steel industry was revealed, and the main areas of its implementation in the development of the Chinese economy were studied. To achieve this goal, the following methods were used: synthesis, analysis, comparison, generalization. The results of the study. The paper considers the sustainable development of the world economy through the prism of implementing a “green” economy course, in achieving the goals of which the concept of a closed-loop economy (circular economy) is applicable. Based on the analysis of approaches to defining the term “circular economy”, the principles of the concept of “circular economy” are revealed in detail: reduction, recovery, reuse and recycling. Today, the leading industry in implementing this approach is the steel industry, and China is demonstrating noticeable results in implementing circular economy approaches. These served as the basis for revealing the practice of implementing the concept of “circular economy” using the experience of the PRC. In this regard, the concept of “ecological civilization” of the country under study, which is focused on smoothing out the consequences of the economization of the Chinese economy, is considered, the regulatory framework for “greening” the Chinese economy and the structure of the circular economy of this country are given. Conclusions. Achieving sustainable development of any economy involves the introduction of the principles of “green” economy, which is implemented also through the concept of a closed-loop economy. Depending on the specifics of the industry, the introduction of elements of the circular economy is carried out at different rates and on different scales. The experience of the world's leading economies, for example, that of China, confirms that the creation of an "environmental initiative" should become a strategic necessity for the socio-economic development of any country in the world. “Green” turn of the global economy will lead to significant changes in its structure, which will certainly be of interest to the scientific community in terms of tracking its trends and forecasting possible scenarios for further development.

The demand for sustainable business practices is higher than ever in today's world, which is characterised by environmental degradation, social inequity, and economic unpredictability. Sustainable entrepreneurship, which balances economic, social, and environmental aims, can lead to more ethical and resilient organizational operations. This study dives into the transformative journeys of Howard Schultz of Starbucks and Edward Tirtanata of Kopi Kenangan to show how businesses can succeed while solving global concerns. Schultz's vision of Starbucks as a "third place" between home and work, influenced by Italian coffee culture, and Tirtanata's purpose to make high-quality coffee accessible and culturally relevant in Indonesia demonstrate visionary leadership and market adaptation. Their encounters show how incorporating sustainability into fundamental business strategy may improve brand reputation, strengthen supply chains, and fulfil the growing consumer demand for corporate responsibility. This study explores the socio-theoretical foundations and worldwide goals of sustainable business using qualitative analysis, which includes a literature review and thematic coding. It emphasizes the significance of cultural sensitivity and community inclusion, emphasizing how honouring local traditions generates more market acceptance and community bonds. The study also coincides with strategic management theories including the resource-based view (RBV), planned behaviour theory, and stakeholder theory, emphasizing the link between sustainability and intrinsic motivation and purpose. Ultimately, Schultz and Tirtanata's experiences demonstrate that sustainable entrepreneurship is more than a moral duty; it is a strategic necessity for long-term success.

Aim. Consider the specifics and features of quality cost models by A. Feigenbaum, J. Juran, F. Crosby in the context of increasing the efficiency of cost management.Objectives. Describe Joseph M. Juran's model (Juran's Spiral); classify quality costs by J. Juran — A. Feigenbaum; describe the classification of costs by F. Crosby.Methods. This work uses general scientific research methods: deduction, induction, generalization, comparative analysis, synthesis (unification), study and theoretical analysis.Results. In the modern economy, product quality plays a critical role, influencing the competitiveness and stability of the country's economic system, which makes quality management not just a formality, but a strategic necessity. Active implementation and development of quality systems is considered by enterprises as a means to improve reputation, increase market share and strengthen customer loyalty, and such systems help reduce costs by preventing defects and optimizing processes.Conclusions. An analysis of quality cost models was carried out as one of the key methods in increasing the economic efficiency of the organization. In modern quality management practice, special attention is paid not only to the identification and assessment of quality costs, but also to their role in the process of making managerial and technical decisions. This is especially true when planning the production activities of an enterprise. Quality cost analysis is becoming an important tool to help management formulate economically sound decisions.

Work-life balance has emerged as a crucial determinant of employee well-being, satisfaction, and engagement in the modern workplace. For startup companies—where the pace of work is often intense, resources are limited, and employee roles are fluid—achieving and maintaining a healthy work-life balance becomes both a challenge and a strategic necessity. The significance of work-life balance lies in its capacity to directly influence employee morale, reduce burnout, and foster a culture of trust and loyalty. In recent years, the concept of work-life balance has gained immense relevance, particularly within dynamic and fast-paced organizational settings such as startups. This study seeks to investigate the relationship between work-life balance practices and levels of employee engagement, as perceived by Human Resource (HR) managers working in Ahmedabad-based startup companies. With a sample size of 128 HR managers selected through a random sampling technique, the research utilizes a structured close-ended questionnaire to collect data. The primary objectives of the study are twofold: first, to analyze the perception of HR managers regarding how work-life balance initiatives affect employee engagement, and second, to examine the association between the demographic profiles of HR managers and their perceptions. The findings of the study reveal a strong belief among HR managers that work-life balance initiatives—including flexible working hours and HR policies aligned with employee well-being—significantly contribute to improved employee engagement. These insights underline the growing need for startups to embed work-life balance strategies into their broader human resource practices to foster a more committed, productive, and motivated workforce.

Water has a crucial place in the advent of humankind the flourishing of mega population centres, and is an essential source of food, water transportation, and irrigation. The anthropogenic activities in taming the natural water streams to the optimum benefit of human beings disturb natural flood plains, ecology and habitat. The channelisation of streams and hydromodifications in dams, barrages or reservoirs result in climatic variations locally/ regionally and impact transborder stream flow. Researchers have been endeavouring to restore the flood plains to their natural conditions. Still, huge hydromodifications and the development of megacities right in the flood plains or adjacent to the streams have resulted in irreversible disturbances to the natural lay of ground/ landscape. Therefore, to avoid flooding disasters, further structural interventions are undertaken to augment the natural flood prevention methods using advanced materials like cement concrete, steel, and polymers rather than increasing the emissions of greenhouse gases. Considering the strategic necessity of engineering structures as an integrated catchment level solution to augment the natural methods, the researchers/ engineers are now focussing on the use of sustainable, eco-friendly materials and demountable/ hydraulic structures to minimise the carbon footprints of hydromodifications and to decrease the obstruction to the natural flow of streams by using the flood prevention structures/ gates/ walls/ reservoirs only in case of disastrous flooding and otherwise keeping them unemployed during normal stream discharges. This study has been used to review sustainable flood management using natural and structural techniques in the Wharf River catchment in the UK, reviewing the existing research/ flood management schemes giving the pictorial coverage. The study suggests that natural flood management techniques have restricted application parameters and must be augmented by engineering structures to achieve effective flood management against heavy flooding. Low CO2 embodied greener infrastructure structural materials containing supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) can be a beneficial option for an environmentally friendly flood management strategy.

In today's global business environment, diversification of business processes is becoming a strategic necessity for Ukrainian enterprises, as it allows them to adapt to new conditions and challenges that accompany integration into the European economic area. Highlighting the motivations and goals of business process diversification is especially relevant in connection with the war in the country and martial law. The study is aimed at identifying the main motives and goals of diversification of business processes of Ukrainian enterprises in the context of European integration. In the course of the analysis, various methods were used, such as analysis, synthesis, generalization, induction, analogy and systematic approach, to study the main motives and goals of business process diversification

Purpose. On the basis of the analysis of legal problems and prospects of state policy (SP) in the field of employment (FE) under martial law to substantiate the direction of SP changes in this area; and the strategic necessity of the social orientation of the specified policy. To offer recommendations: improvement of legal provision of SP; and the addition of legal norms to expand the possibilities of supporting SP with a single information and analytical system (SIAS). Methodology. General scientific and special methods of cognition are used: statistical analysis – to study changes in employment under martial law; analysis and synthesis – to determine the main tasks of SP in FE under martial law conditions, induction and deduction – to determine an important goal of SP – stabilization of this sphere; critical analysis – to substantiate the strategic necessity of the social direction of SP in FE; logical abstraction – to use SIAS for legal support of SP; formal and legal – to develop amendments to legislative acts to eliminate legal problems of SP implementation. Findings. Factors of the influence of the war on the labor market are established, the directions of state policy, caused by the specified influences, are determined. The main tasks of the SP in the field of employment under martial law are defined. It is indicated that the legal non-demarcation of the powers of institutional structures leads to the dysfunction of operational measures in this area. It is noted that the lack of strategic orientation of the SP leads to the acquisition of permanent structural features in the disproportions of the labor market. The importance of combining operational measures and long-term measures to solve strategic tasks is indicated, even under existing military conditions. Originality. The strategic necessity of the social direction of state policy in the field of employment is substantiated, even under martial law conditions, and for this purpose changes in legislation are proposed. The use of SIAS for forecasting employment and legal support of SP is proposed. Additions to legislative acts have been developed for the proper legal support of SP. Practical value. The proposed additions to the Laws of Ukraine, proposals to expand the use of SIAS will allow resolving some legal problems in the field of employment.

Abstract As the volume of e-waste continues to rise, it is crucial to sustainably manage printed circuit boards (PCBs) and their valuable metal components. PCBs are ubiquitous in modern society, powering a variety of electronic devices. The metal resource crisis and the imperative for a low-carbon circular economy have accelerated the development of e-waste recycling technology. High-value discarded PCBs represent a vital component of e-waste. However, discarded PCBs are deemed hazardous to the ecosystem due to the presence of heavy metals and brominated organic polymers. Thus, recycling metals from discarded PCBs is not only a strategic necessity for fostering a green ecological civilisation but also a crucial guarantee for ensuring a safe supply of mineral resources. This comprehensive review gives the profound details of PCBs, and the performance of and advances in the latest chemical metal recovery methods. Reviewing the latest metal recovery processes, we explored the application of diverse leaching agents, including ionic liquids (ILs), deep eutectic solvents (DESs), organic acids and amino acids. These solvents were assessed in terms of their recovery efficiencies, and most of them demonstrated excellent leaching performance. The role of optimising leaching parameters such as concentration, oxidants, pH, particle size, solid-to-liquid ratios (S/L), temperature, and contact time is underscored, offering insights into achieving sustainable PCB recycling practices. Most of these recent leaching methods successfully extracted base metals (Cu, Fe, Zn, Sn, etc.), as well as precious metals (Au and Ag), achieving leaching efficiencies exceeding 90.0%. Interestingly, their effectiveness can compete with that of traditional hydrometallurgical methods.

This essay seeks to provide an overview of the dynamics of nuclear order in the newly emergent geostrategic space of the Indo-Pacific. With the onset of increasingly sharp access/denial competition between the United States of America and China, the otherwise bilateral and dyadic rivalries are getting meshed together into the newly emergent geostrategic arena of the Indo-Pacific. This poses proliferation risks and miscalculations among the rival nuclear-armed dyads which populate the Indo-Pacific. Accordingly, the essay draws out the contours of the nuclear order and the attendant strategic necessities which mold the challenges posed to nonproliferation by the competition between nuclear armed states in the Indo-Pacific. It is argued that an action-reaction dynamic abounds in the region and as such given increasing competition between the United States & China and simultaneous Sino-India competition, the prospects for nuclear nonproliferation look bleak.

The article deals with the problems of information support of biology lessons as plans for the implementation of a didactic approach to the development of the content of their technological composition of education, as it makes it possible to use computer videos, multimedia presentations in the lesson, which allows students to activate motivation and increase the effectiveness of learning. Today, the use of modern information technologies in the educational process makes it possible to improve the quality of the presentation of educational material and increase the effectiveness of training. Studies have shown that the practice of a biology teacher today includes active teaching methods using information and computer technologies, which opens up new opportunities for developing students' cognitive interest in the subject being taught. The authors of the article consider the possibility and even the strategic necessity of using information and computer technologies (ICT) in teaching biology, which allows solving the problems of computerization of education from an organizational point of view and increasing the effectiveness of teaching.

This study delves into the crucial role of information technology (IT) integration in marketing and branding management strategies, highlighting its significance as a pivotal element for businesses aiming to secure a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. In an era marked by digital transformation, the confluence of innovative IT solutions with traditional marketing and branding frameworks emerges as a strategic necessity for companies navigating the complexities of today’s marketplace. This research posits that such integration is instrumental in revolutionizing how organizations communicate with their target audiences, offering new pathways for differentiation and value creation. Exploring the paradigm shift induced by the advent of digital platforms, social media, and data analytics, the paper examines how these technologies have expanded the opportunities for businesses to engage with consumers on a more personalized and impactful level. It asserts that the digital transformation enables the harnessing of data-driven insights, thereby optimizing marketing strategies, brand positioning, and customer relationships. This integration transcends operational enhancements, dictating the long-term success and sustainability of businesses through strategic necessity. Moreover, the study addresses the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of digital technologies, emphasizing the importance of agility and innovation in exploiting new tools and platforms to maintain competitive superiority. It explores the potential of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and augmented reality in enhancing marketing effectiveness and brand appeal. However, it also acknowledges the challenges inherent in IT integration, such as data privacy, cybersecurity, and the need for continuous adaptation and employee skill development. Drawing upon theoretical frameworks and practical case studies, this research aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the role of IT in enhancing marketing and branding strategies. It seeks to offer insights into the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities within the digital marketing landscape, facilitating a deeper understanding of how businesses can leverage technology to foster a sustainable competitive advantage. Ultimately, this paper endeavors to illuminate the strategic importance of IT integration in marketing and branding, guiding businesses towards more effective and innovative practices in the digital age.

The article explores the revolutionary effects of artificial Intelligence (AI) on cybersecurity in various industries, emphasizing how important it is to protect sensitive data and strengthen vital infrastructure. Using AI-driven cybersecurity solutions signifies a paradigm change away from reactive, defensive tactics and toward proactive, adaptive, and predictive defense systems. The article illustrates how artificial Intelligence (AI) improves threat detection, guards against fraudulent activity, secure patient data, and strengthens the digital thread in manufacturing and supply chain operations. It focuses on essential industries such as nuclear energy, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. The convergence of AI and cybersecurity becomes a strategic necessity as sectors negotiate the challenges of a globalized world, providing light on the way to a more inventive, safe, and resilient future.

In the volatile landscape of the insurance industry, the exigencies of employee training have become increasingly complex, underscored by technological disruption and the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper critically evaluates the transformation in training paradigms required to maintain operational efficacy amidst these industrial shifts. Emphasis is placed on the swift digitization of training methods, the imperative for mental health prioritization, and the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality into instructional design. The analysis also foregrounds the challenges of economic downturns on resource allocation for employee development. Furthermore, the paper posits that the customization of training—leveraging data analytics to personalize learning experiences is essential to address the diverse competencies within the insurance workforce. Conclusively, the paper underscores the strategic necessity of evolving training methodologies to bolster workforce adaptability, underscoring a commitment to the perpetual enhancement of human capital as a cornerstone of industry resilience and prosperity.

PurposeThis empirical study explores the intricate relationships between Industry 4.0 (I4), Lean practices and sustainable operational performance (SOP) within the dynamic context of the services sector. Rooted in the theoretical framework of Resource Orchestration Theory (ROT), the research investigates the nuanced interplay between these paradigms and their collective impact on firm performance.Design/methodology/approachThe research methods included creation of a structural model, hypothesis formulation and advanced data analysis. Primary data were gathered through an online questionnaire distributed among service sector professionals. Analysis was completed using Partial Least Squares (PLS) Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using the Smart-PLS software.FindingsThe results underscore the mediating role of Lean practices between I4 and SOP, emphasizing the imperative of harmonized integration to enhance overall firm performance. In alignment with ROT principles, the study illuminates the positive influence of Lean practices on sustainable operational outcomes.Research limitations/implicationsThe study contributes to the scholarly discourse on I4, Lean and Services, emphasizing the strategic necessity of integrating I4 capabilities with Lean practices. Practical insights guide practitioners in orchestrating a balanced adoption of I4 and Lean practices for SOP. This research offers actionable insights for industry leaders seeking to cultivate SOP within their organizational contexts.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the evolving understanding of the interplay between I4, Lean practices and SOP within the services sector, offering novel insights for both academia and industry practitioners.

Digital transformation has become a strategic necessity in the development of small businesses, including home-based enterprises run by housewives. However, many home-based culinary entrepreneurs lack skills in digital marketing. This community service activity aims to enhance digital marketing capacity for housewives involved in culinary businesses in Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta. The training focuses on three main platforms that are easily accessible and user-friendly: Instagram, Canva, and WhatsApp Business. The methods employed include initial observation, preparation of training modules, face-to-face training, hands-on practice, as well as mentoring and evaluation. The results of the activity indicate a significant improvement in participants' abilities to create engaging promotional content, understand promotional functions and features on Instagram, and use WhatsApp Business proficiently. This is reflected in the pre-test and post-test results, which show an average score increase of 45–55%, particularly in the categories of promotional content creation, visual branding, and social media utilization. The evaluation of the activity also demonstrates a very high level of participant satisfaction, with an average score above 4.5 in terms of material relevance, participant engagement, and facilitator performance. This improvement indicates the success of the practice-based training method that is directly oriented towards participants' needs. It is hoped that this training can serve as a foundational step in the economic empowerment of families based on digital technology, while also encouraging housewives to be more confident in utilizing social media as an effective and sustainable promotional tool.

In contemporary environmental discourse, the role of Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) and collaborative efforts between Public Relations (PR) practitioners and environmental experts hold significant relevance. This study explores the pivotal role of communication strategies in environmental campaigns and the collaborative mechanisms between PR and environmental specialists within various organizational contexts. Estaswara (2000) underscores the strategic necessity of integrated communication in marketing, emphasizing its transformation from a mere promotional tool to a strategic business process. The findings highlight the insufficiency of environmental awareness alone in inciting tangible action. Discussions center around designing campaign messages to effectively drive concrete and sustainable behavioral changes. Collaboration between PR and environmental experts is articulated through several methods. Firstly, monitoring emissions involves joint efforts to develop and manage emission monitoring systems like Continuous Industrial Emission Monitoring Information System (CISPEK) and Continuous and Networked Effluent Water Quality Monitoring System (SPARING). Secondly, Performance Rating Program for Environmental Performance (PROPER) is used by PR to establish cooperation and enhance public trust in environmental management. Thirdly, effective communication and community engagement leverage social media and communal activities to disseminate information and amalgamate feedback from the public. The jurnal asserts the vital role of PR in fostering public participation, guiding communities on critical issues, and encouraging their contribution to sustainable development. By providing pertinent explanations, PR elevates societal awareness regarding crucial issues like environmental sustainability, climate change, and public health, stimulating active involvement in sustainable development endeavors..

The growth of China's carbon market, from its origin to its current size, demonstrates the country's dedication to corporate involvement and carbon reduction. Businesses' operations, risk management, investor relations, innovation culture, and level of global competitiveness are all profoundly impacted by carbon trading. It elevates sustainability from a policy compliance to a long-term success strategic necessity in a climate-focused world. The significant implications of China's carbon market on company behavior are thoroughly examined in this essay, including how they affect production methods, innovation, social responsibility, goal-setting, and future directions. Considering industry differences, profit consequences, and increasing investments in ESG principles, it also analyses their impact on business carbon emissions and financial indicators. In the end, the paper explores the complex connection between carbon emissions and business practices, highlighting the wide-ranging ramifications of China's carbon trading market on enterprise operations and sustainability strategies.

The integration of intermodal transportation services has become a strategic necessity in improving the quality of urban transportation services, which is reflected in the extent to which the provision of facilities, infrastructure, and supporting amenities can enhance travel experiences and promote sustainable transportation. Achieving integration should focus on major transportation nodes in an area, such as the Poris Plawad Terminal and Batu Ceper Station in the Poris Plawad area of Tangerang City. The Poris Plawad area is also part of the government's plan to develop it as a Transit Oriented Development (TOD) area. This research aims to evaluate the needs and performance of services and determine priorities for improving intermodal transportation services in the Poris Plawad area.
 The sampling technique used is purposive sampling, with a total of 202 respondents obtained. Data collection from respondents was carried out through questionnaires distributed to transportation service users at the Poris Plawad Terminal and Batu Ceper Station, as well as residents within an 800-meter radius of both transportation nodes. This study uses an integrated approach combining the Importance Performance Analysis (IPA) method and the Kano model.
 The analysis results indicate that there are 5 service provision needs that need to be prioritized for improvement at present. Firstly, the provision of crossing facilities. Secondly, the provision of connected pedestrian paths (sidewalks). Thirdly, uninterrupted sidewalk functionality. Fourthly, the quality of sidewalk pavements. And fifthly, the access to and from the transportation nodes free from traffic conflicts.

As early as 1754 BC. Hammurabi's Code, the well-known collection of laws of the Babylonians, regulated, among other things, the status of insurance. Also, both ancient Greece and the Romans had forms of insurance to protect those who remained alive after the death of the insured relative. Since then, human society has been in a permanent evolution, facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. In today's digital age, information technologies have become essential in many sectors of the economy; of course, insurance, an important component of the financial market, benefited to the full from computer "fingerprinting". This is driving entrepreneurs in this field to look at a wide range of innovations, from artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT), transforming the way insurance is designed, delivered, managed and consumed. The use of information technologies has become an essential catalyst for innovation and growth in this sector. From big data processing and predictive analytics to intuitive customer interfaces and process automation, information technology is transforming the way insurance companies operate and interact with their customers. Therefore, insurance entrepreneurs need to perceive the use of information technologies not just as a simple trend, but as a strategic necessity that paves the way for innovation and sustainable success.