Long-term Sustainable Strategy Research Articles

Medium- and long-term sustainable supply approaches and strategies for essential and typical strategic resources in China

Medium- and long-term sustainable supply approaches and strategies for essential and typical strategic resources in China

Emerging Medical Technologies and Their Use in Bionic Repair and Human Augmentation.

As both the proportion of older people and the length of life increases globally, a rise in age-related degenerative diseases, disability, and prolonged dependency is projected. However, more sophisticated biomedical materials, as well as an improved understanding of human disease, is forecast to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of conditions ranging from osteoarthritis to Alzheimer's disease as well as impact disease prevention. Another, albeit quieter, revolution is also taking place within society: human augmentation. In this context, humans seek to improve themselves, metamorphosing through self-discipline or more recently, through use of emerging medical technologies, with the goal of transcending aging and mortality. In this review, and in the pursuit of improved medical care following aging, disease, disability, or injury, we first highlight cutting-edge and emerging materials-based neuroprosthetic technologies designed to restore limb or organ function. We highlight the potential for these technologies to be utilized to augment human performance beyond the range of natural performance. We discuss and explore the growing social movement of human augmentation and the idea that it is possible and desirable to use emerging technologies to push the boundaries of what it means to be a healthy human into the realm of superhuman performance and intelligence. This potential future capability is contrasted with limitations in the right-to-repair legislation, which may create challenges for patients. Now is the time for continued discussion of the ethical strategies for research, implementation, and long-term device sustainability or repair.

Emerging Medical Technologies and Their Use in Bionic Repair and Human Augmentation

As both the proportion of older people and the length of life increases globally, a rise in age-related degenerative diseases, disability, and prolonged dependency is projected. However, more sophisticated biomedical materials, as well as an improved understanding of human disease, is forecast to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of conditions ranging from osteoarthritis to Alzheimer’s disease as well as impact disease prevention. Another, albeit quieter, revolution is also taking place within society: human augmentation. In this context, humans seek to improve themselves, metamorphosing through self-discipline or more recently, through use of emerging medical technologies, with the goal of transcending aging and mortality. In this review, and in the pursuit of improved medical care following aging, disease, disability, or injury, we first highlight cutting-edge and emerging materials-based neuroprosthetic technologies designed to restore limb or organ function. We highlight the potential for these technologies to be utilized to augment human performance beyond the range of natural performance. We discuss and explore the growing social movement of human augmentation and the idea that it is possible and desirable to use emerging technologies to push the boundaries of what it means to be a healthy human into the realm of superhuman performance and intelligence. This potential future capability is contrasted with limitations in the right-to-repair legislation, which may create challenges for patients. Now is the time for continued discussion of the ethical strategies for research, implementation, and long-term device sustainability or repair.

Two Brothers Organic Farms: building shared value in a competitive market

Learning outcomes After completion of the case study, students will be able to understand organic farming challenges in India, analyze Two Brothers Organic Farms’ (TBOF) value chain for creating shared values, evaluate marketing mix and product development strategies, explore social media’s impact on marketing and explore and propose strategies for long-term sustainability in the organic farming industry. Case overview/synopsis The case study revolves around the entrepreneurial journey of Ajinkya and Satyajit Hange, two brothers who transitioned from successful banking careers to pursue their passion for organic farming. Establishing TBOF in Pune, India, the duo faced challenges in introducing organic produce to a market resistant to change. With a commitment to regenerative agriculture, they implemented innovative farming practices, including desi cow rearing, multicropping and indigenous seeds. The narrative unfolds the brothers’ strategic roles, where Ajinkya manages crop production, and Satyajit focuses on marketing. Emphasizing a trusted brand built on quality, they expanded their product portfolio (Figure 2), reaching 52 countries through direct marketing and word of mouth. As the organic food industry surged postpandemic, TBPF faced challenges in meeting rising demand. The case study discusses the organic farming sector in India, underscoring the brothers’ efforts to combat harmful agro-inputs. The dilemmas lie in navigating the niche organic market, supply–demand imbalances and the need for sustainable business processes. The case study aims to explore the strategic decisions and dilemmas encountered by TBOF, offering insights into the complexities of sustainable entrepreneurship in the Indian organic farming sector. Complexity academic level This case study should be used in marketing and management classes at the undergraduate level. Applicable concepts include artificial intelligence, social media, content and information. Supplementary materials Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 11: Strategy.

Accounting for Impacts: Exploring Sustainability Reporting in Bulgarian Companies under the CSRD

Abstract Sustainability reporting is a key tool for managing uncertainty because it provides transparency, accountability and reliable information on companies' environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance. By disclosing relevant data and insights, sustainability reports enable stakeholders to make informed decisions, understand companies' environmental and social impacts, and assess their long-term sustainability strategies. This paper examines the evolving landscape of corporate sustainability reporting in Bulgaria, taking into account the broader context of corporate impact assessment and impact accounting. The study begins with an introduction to the growing importance of sustainability reporting in today's business environment, emphasising the need for transparency, accountability and compliance. A review of the current literature on the subject reveals a notable trend towards increased disclosure of environmental initiatives and impacts, alongside persistent challenges such as inadequate quality and quantity of reporting, expertise gaps and inconsistencies in guidance. To address these issues, the research uses a mixed-methods approach to explore the nature of sustainability reporting, regulatory frameworks and accountability practices in Bulgarian companies. Through data analysis and interpretation of findings, the study reveals a positive trend towards greater disclosure of sustainability initiatives and impacts, albeit with significant variations in reporting quality and methodology. As Bulgarian companies prepare for the implementation of the Corporate Sustainable Reporting Directive (CSRD), the study highlights the essential need to align with evolving sustainability reporting standards to promote transparency and accountability. By addressing these challenges, companies can better meet stakeholder expectations, contribute to sustainable development goals, and build reputation and trust in the corporate sector. Finally, this paper contributes to the field of sustainability reporting by providing valuable insights into the current state of affairs in Bulgarian companies.

Analyzing the impact of eco-friendly bonds on economic growth and environmental sustainability

In recent decades, a noticeable uptick has been seen in the issuing of eco-friendly bonds across green, social, and sustainable categories. The study examines their intersection with economic expansion and sustainability using panel data from 82 countries analyzed through robust fixed-effects estimators. The results reveal a significant positive correlation between the issuing of eco-friendly bonds and economic growth. Interestingly, a negative relationship emerges between bond performance and growth, suggesting that the mere issuing of bonds may not be enough to ensure sustainable economic expansion. The importance of refined valuation methods for these bonds is emphasized, along with the risk of economic imbalance caused by the uneven distribution of bond investments across sectors, akin to the "Dutch disease." The need to align investment strategies with both economic and environmental objectives to address challenges like persistent carbon emissions is also stressed. The authors advocate the integrating of considerations of bond issuance and performance into long-term sustainability strategies. Despite holding potential for positive environmental impact, eco-friendly bonds may not consistently drive economic growth as initially anticipated, particularly when balancing the development and carbon-reduction objectives.

Evaluating the efficiency of green innovation and marketing strategies for long-term sustainability in the context of Environmental labeling

In the contemporary landscape, as environmental concerns take center stage, consumers are increasingly urged to make ecologically friendly choices, facilitated by the prevalence of environmental labeling. This study undertakes a comprehensive investigation into the influence of environmental labeling on customer purchasing behavior, with a specific emphasis on evaluating the effectiveness of green marketing and innovation initiatives. Using the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Fuzzy Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (WASPAS) methodologies, the research pinpoints the elements and tactics able to influence consumer behavior in connection to environmental labeling. Therefore, seven factors, twenty-one sub-factors, and six strategies are identified. The results of Fuzzy AHP show the prominent role of product attributes, marketing and promotion strategies, and sustainability practices while seeking to change consumer behavior with regard to environmental labeling. In addition, the findings from the Fuzzy WASPAS approach suggest that environmentally friendly packaging, product labeling, and partnerships and collaboration are the most successful green innovation and marketing strategies. The findings of this study can help shape the design of more effective environmental labeling programs and marketing plans for encouraging sustainable purchases.

Beyond taste: examining sustainable value, perceived CSR and consumer behaviour in the restaurant industry

PurposeAs perceived corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become one of the long-term sustainable development strategies for many companies, this paper investigates the interrelationships between sustainable values (SVs), perceived CSR and customer behaviour in the restaurant industry.Design/methodology/approachTo gather data needed to meet the study aims, we conducted an online survey of restaurant patrons in China, and used partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to analyse the proposed models and test the hypotheses.FindingsThe obtained findings confirm that the three studied SV dimensions (equality, respect for nature and shared responsibility) have positive effects on perceived CSR, which in turn significantly affects word of mouth (WOM). Moreover, perceived CSR mediates the relationship between the three SVs and WOM but has no impact on the relationship between SVs and revisit intention.Practical implicationsThe results of this study have practical implications for managers in the restaurant industry. Restaurant managers can prioritize their CSR efforts based on the relative importance of SV dimensions, which is useful in generating positive WOM.Originality/valueEven though the importance of CSR is widely recognised, it is insufficiently studied from the perspective of restaurant customers. This research not only addresses this gap, but also expands the current understanding of SVs and their impact on CSR.

Work Identity and Career Perspectives in Flexible Labour Contexts

"Work inclusion is among the main targets of any sustainable long-term strategy, implemented at European level through three main directions: a better inclusion of young people on the labour market, reintegration of the chronic ill persons and retention for longer periods of the elder ones by increasing the retirement age. The Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, as other previous crisis also did, brought interruptions regarding the labour market and accelerated some already existing trends, sometimes increasing gaps. Both the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the European Union drew attention on the increasing risks the new generation is facing when struggling to enter the labour market in an insecure context. Considering this given framework, the present paper aims to shed light on the integration of the young people into work, resorting to concepts such as work identity, career construction, job insecurity and flexibility. Furthermore, the theoretical approach is enriched with the analysis of data issued by the statistical bureau of the European Union (Eurostat) regarding the participation of young people in education and on the labour market."

Binary Logistic Regression applied to erosion susceptibility mapping in the Southern Amazon

Problems with soil erosion by water wind in the Brazilian Amazon are intensifying as the forest is replaced by agricultural production. Deforestation, burning, logging, and advancing the agricultural frontier have altered the soil-vegetation balance. In this context, the analysis of soil erosion susceptibility is one of the most significant challenges to developing long-term sustainability strategies and policies. Based on the above, the present study used the principles of Statistical Modeling - Logistic Regression - to develop and validate a model for analysis of susceptibility to soil erosion using 14 environmental factors. The study was carried out in a hydrographic sub-basin with 330 km2, located in the south of the State of Rondônia in the western Amazon, which combines characteristics of intense anthropic activity, loss of fertile soil, gullies, and silting of rivers. The study area has rainfall above 2000 mm year-1, they are transcurrent shear zones, predominant relief forms are flat to slightly convex tops, drainage networks are dendritic in an exorheic system, vegetation cover is composed of areas of forests and natural or regenerated forest fragments, agriculture is destined to annual crops. Livestock is extensive, with a predominance of small rural properties. The logistic regression model showed satisfactory results with an AUC of 0.888 and global accuracy was 0.77. The variables with the most significant effect on the equation were NDVI, erosivity, and TST. The mapping found that 57.71% of the study area is in places susceptible to soil loss due to water events.

Confluence of sustainable entrepreneurship, innovation, and digitalization in SMEs

Entrepreneurship has been the focus of business research because of its ability to drive positive change and increase resilience in the economy. Sustainable entrepreneurship is the latest approach that links traditional entrepreneurship with triple-bottom-line principles and has gained institutional support since the UN approved the “2030 Development Agenda.” However, the field of sustainable entrepreneurship is relatively new and continually evolving, with an ongoing debate about its definition, boundaries, and drivers. A model was designed using different estimation techniques, to explore how SMEs and start-ups can adopt long-term sustainability, innovation, and digitalization strategies. This study used data from the Flash Eurobarometer 486 gathered through interviews with 16.365 SMEs in the EU27 and 12 non-EU countries. The findings show that most entrepreneurs do not express interest in a pro-growth agenda, which limits the reach of pro-entrepreneurship and pro-innovation discourse. Furthermore, firms’ youth affect sustainability, not innovation and digitalization dynamics.

Exploring student community engagement in higher education: A bibliometric analysis on the path to sustainable development

Higher education institutions have seen significant growth in student community engagement initiatives, which act as engines for fostering social justice and fostering civic responsibility. By conducting a thorough bibliometric analysis of the literature on student community engagement programmes in higher education and focusing specifically on exploring the opportunities and challenges associated with sustainable practises, this study seeks to add to the body of knowledge already in existence. Data were taken from the Scopus database and analysed using a variety of bibliometric indicators and network visualisation tools. The analysis's findings provide insight into a number of facets of the field, including publication output, frequently used author keywords, prestigious journals, influential institutions, prolific authors, and national contributions. The study sheds important light on the scholarly work surrounding student community participation programmes in higher education by looking at these factors. The results of this study also highlight the opportunities and issues that must be resolved in order to implement sustainable practices in student community engagement programmes. To ensure such programmes' sustained success and impact, it is important to strengthen interdisciplinary research efforts, cultivate strong community connections, and create long-term sustainability strategies. This study contributes to understanding student community engagement programmes in higher education by exploring the literature through a bibliometric lens, revealing knowledge gaps, highlighting areas for further investigation, and highlighting opportunities for advancement.

Assessing the Degradation of Safety Management Performance in Large Construction Projects: An Investigation and Decision Model Based on Complex Network Modeling

Modern safety control theory suggests that the accumulation of safety management defects at the organizational level can lead to a degradation in the overall safety management performance. This problem is exacerbated by the increasing complexity of safety management in large construction projects. The theoretical frameworks proposed by existing studies can provide generalized guidance for identifying safety management defects, but they are not flexible enough to address the complexity of a safety management system (SMS) in specific large construction projects. This study proposed an investigation and decision model based on a complex network model of SMSs. The main purpose was to accurately assess the degradation of safety management performance through the comprehensive identification of safety management defects for large construction projects. The functional components and their interactions in SMSs were graphically represented in a complex network using the fuzzy DEMATEL technique. Based on this, deep-seated safety management defects were identified by tracing the path of influence between the functional components and their roots. Furthermore, the results of this identification were used to support the assessment of the degradation of the safety performance of the overall SMS. The proposed model was verified with a large-scale wastewater treatment plant construction project in Lanzhou City, China. The degradation of the functional components could be presented in a complex visual network map to facilitate an understanding of the weak points or risk-sensitive areas throughout the SMS. Especially in the case of false safety perceptions, deep-seated safety management defects can be identified in time to prevent a sudden collapse of the SMS through early warnings. In addition, it also facilitates timely short-term improvement strategies and systematic long-term improvement strategies for long-term sustainability and increased resilience.

Renewable Methanol from Industrial Carbon Emissions: A Dead End or Sustainable Way Forward?

As the urgency to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 intensifies, industries face an imperative to reimagine their role in the fight against climate change. One promising avenue arises from the realization that industrial emissions, often deemed pollutants, can be the building blocks of a circular economy strategy. By directly utilizing these carbon emissions as raw materials, we can produce net-zero or low-carbon fuels, carbonates, polymers, and chemicals. At the heart of this paradigm shift lies the production of carbon-neutral methanol from industrial flue gas-a technically viable approach that has gained significant momentum in recent years. The conditions under which such a circular economy model for producing renewable methanol becomes commercially sustainable based on realistic constraints, however, are not sufficiently explored in the existing literature. This paper fills this gap by investigating if and when net-zero methanol production from industrial flue gas will be a sustainable long-term strategy. Using detailed technoeconomic modeling of integrated hydrogen and methanol production ecosystems for two production capacities, I will evaluate 32 practical production scenarios using realistic regulatory, economic, and market conditions. Even though renewable methanol from industrial emissions can be a viable technical solution to address climate change and global warming, I will show why this strategy will be commercially feasible only under favorable economic, regulatory, and market conditions. Furthermore, I will demonstrate how the market price of methanol and the cost of carbon-free electricity critically influence the commercial feasibility of this approach. When these two parameters are unfavorable, I will show why other factors, namely, carbon credits and byproduct (oxygen) sales, will not be sufficient to create an economically sustainable circular economy of renewable methanol from industrial emissions. Finally, I will provide arguments on why one has to think through stakeholder cooperation and public-private partnerships to mitigate various project risks. Despite the importance of this topic, it is not sufficiently covered in the available scientific literature. To advance policy and regulatory frameworks in this area, I strongly believe that further research and development is needed. I will also share perspectives on regulatory derisking mechanisms, which can help align regulations with private investors' preferences. With the analyses and arguments showcased in this paper, I will firmly assert that without favorable conditions, strong partnerships, and stakeholder cooperation, the production of renewable net-zero methanol from industrial emissions risks becoming a dead-end strategy.

Firms’ characteristics, corporate governance, and the adoption of sustainability reporting: evidence from Gulf Cooperation Council countries

PurposeThe purpose of the study is to investigate the factors that influence the adoption of new sustainability reporting (SDG) and external assurance (EXTA) practices. This study also examines the relationship between sustainability reporting activity and corporate economic performance for a sample of 99 companies in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries that addressed SDGs in their sustainability reports published in 2019.Design/methodology/approachUsing a two-stage analysis, this study examines how firms’ characteristics and corporate governance variables affect SDG and economic performance, as well as the firm’s decision to adopt EXTA statements for a sample of companies in that addressed SDGs in their sustainability reports published in 2019. The authors collected data from the Global Reporting Initiative’s (GRI) Sustainability Disclosure database and the Bureau van Dijk for Orbis database.FindingsThe results show that the variables firm size, profitability, big 4 auditors and government ownership significantly affect SDG and economic performance. The results also reveal that firms operating in the manufacturing sector are positively correlated with SDG and the firm’s decision to adopt EXTA statements. Furthermore, the results indicate that board independence positively affects SDGs and EXTA.Research limitations/implicationsThe results can be particularly relevant and timely in helping large GCC companies promote their engagement to sustainable development practices by adopting more sustainable long-term strategies and policies. The findings could also guide managers in the strategic direction to identify firms’ characteristics and corporate governance features essential to promote sustainability reporting, an increasingly important performance indicator for investors and to enhance their confidence in the capital market. The results may also have practical implications to policymakers and other regulators in GCC countries to define effective frameworks that promote sustainable development reports and the use of EXTA.Originality/valueThe results make significant contributions by providing new insights to the existing literature on sustainability reporting in emerging markets by examining a unique perspective on the influence of firms’ characteristics and corporate governance features on the adoption of new sustainability reporting practices. The authors further add to the previous literature on the relationship between a firm’s economic performance and sustainable reporting by providing evidence from large companies in GCC countries, which might benefit from the adoption of multiple conceptual lenses, in this case, legitimacy and stakeholder theories. Lastly, through the empirical findings, this study provides economic validity to the 2018 joint initiative of the GRI and the United Nations Global Compact to strengthen corporate actions to achieve the United Nations SDGs.

Can increasing technological complexity help strengthen regional economic resilience?

Improving regional economic resilience through technological innovation has always been a strategic focus of China, but the previous studies have paid little attention to the impact of structural characteristics of technological innovation on regional economic resilience. Based on the complexity of technology, this study studies the impact and mechanism of technological systems with more complex internal mechanisms on economic resilience. The main findings are as follows: (1) Higher technological complexity is conducive to technological innovation and can improve regional economic resilience; (2) technological complexity needs to be in the appropriate range, and its positive effect shows diminishing marginal effect; and (3) optimizing market competition and absorptive capacity plays a positive role in regulating the relationship between technological complexity and regional economic resilience. This study provides policy implications for implementing innovation-driven development strategy, formulating economic recovery plan, and medium- and long-term sustainable development strategy.

Evaluation of agriculture wells electrification policy and development of a long-term sustainable energy strategy

The electrification of agriculture wells in the developing countries is considered as one of the major solutions for increasing energy efficiency and utilization of renewables to achieve sustainable and smart agriculture sector. This study aims to re-evaluate the plan for the electrification of agricultural wells in Iran as a case study in the framework of an environmental energy analysis model and under possible scenarios to achieve sustainable policy-making until 2041. To evaluate the cost-benefits of electrification of agricultural wells, an economic bottom-up end-use analysis model was developed using LEAP. In this study, a methodology was developed to analyze different solutions for energy demand of groundwater well subsector of agriculture sector. The superior scenario, called energy efficiency package, was introduced. To amend the government's policy on the electrification of agricultural wells, and by integrating the strategies of electrification and intelligent measurements and monitoring of wells, this research, suggested a sustainable solution on the use of solar and wind energy in the form of energy efficiency package. This solution could save 8.19 million barrels of crude oil equivalent and reduce 5.24 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions by 2041 at a cost of −369.3 dollars per ton of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The luxury yacht charter market and sustainable brand image: the case of Sunreef

PurposeDrive, power and consciousness are the corner stones for the long-term sustainability of any industry. In the luxury yachting industry, the objective of this study is to evidence through the case of sunreed yachting that environmental innovation in the yachting industry has been key to sustainability.Design/methodology/approachAs a case study central to this paper, Sunreef has reconciled key luxury sustainability indicators to improve its brand image. This article adopted a case study approach to provide a systematic documentary analysis of online materials. It is also supported by a critical review of recent literature.FindingsBeyond reconciling the three core components of any long-term sustainable strategy, the paper provides evidence that luxury yachting can operate without impacting negatively on the environment and local population, providing it is fully aware of the challenges faced by the planet in terms of sustainability, and that everyone has a role to play in achieving sustainability (consciousness) and also a willingness (driver) to invest in research and development (power).Originality/valueThis paper addresses the sustainability challenge in the luxury yachting industry. The case of Sunreef Yachts Eco has shown that green communication and innovations are able to reverse the unsustainable ecological trends in the yachting industry. This paper argues that “green activism” is the key encapsulating all the approaches by Sunreef, linking “consciousness”, “power” and “drivers” in sustainability yachting.

Enhancing the cosmetics industry sustainability through a renewed sustainable supplier selection model

ABSTRACT The cosmetics industry requires a long-term sustainable strategy to balance its continuously growing trend worldwide and its resources consumption. In this view, the suppliers’ selection process is gaining more attention affecting products’ overall sustainability. The objective of this contribution is hence to develop and validate the Cosmetics Sustainable Supplier Selection (C-SSS) model allowing the selection of sustainable suppliers for the cosmetic industry, evaluating them in an objective and balanced manner. The model was built relying on both scientific and grey literature, by incorporating the characteristics of existing SSS models usually used separately. The C-SSS enabled to integrate the EMM approach (to reduce the subjectivity), the ANP approach (to evaluate criteria interconnections), and the TOPSIS and ELECTRE models (to create a hybrid compensation model) to support managers in objectively selecting the most sustainable suppliers. The C-SSS model was applied and validated through an industrial use case in a cosmetics Italian company.

Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on export commodity trading

This study examines the impact of COVID-19 on the export commodity sector in North Kalimantan province, Indonesia. The sector’s heavy reliance on hydrocarbon, seafood, and agricultural products, and lack of diversification in the commodity market pose significant risks to its long-term sustainability and growth. Studies critically analysing the trading of this commodity and the pandemic’s impacts on this sector remain lacking. Using a content analysis approach on data and information sourced from government reports and statistics, this qualitative-based study provides insight into the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and its resultant government intervention measures on North Kalimantan’s export commodities. Findings show that export commodities handled by the province’s ports decreased by 7 percent from 2019 to 2020, but in 2021, export values almost doubled compared to pre-COVID levels. The province’s economic growth has been heavily dependent on hydrocarbon, seafood, and agricultural products before and during the pandemic. To create a more business-friendly environment and reverse the downward trend of export commodities, the study suggests diversifying the commodity market, enhancing human resource capacity, and forging stronger private-public partnerships. The study provides insight into the effects of the pandemic on North Kalimantan’s export commodity sector, highlighting the need for long-term sustainability strategies.