Transition Strategy Research Articles

From business school dean to university president: leadership lessons from Dr Judy Olian

Purpose This study aims to explore Dr Judy Olian’s leadership journey from business school dean to university president, aiming to distill key lessons for aspiring higher education leaders. Design/methodology/approach The research employs a multimethod qualitative approach, including a personal interview with Dr Olian, an analysis of a podcast featuring her insights, a review of her official university profile and the author’s lived experience as a faculty member under Dr Olian’s leadership. This semiethnographic approach is supplemented by a review of relevant literature on higher education leadership. Findings The study reveals critical competencies for transitioning to university leadership, including strategic vision, change management skills, team-building abilities and external relationship management. It highlights the importance of seeking broadening experiences, developing financial acumen and cultivating resilience in leadership roles. The research also underscores the significance of shared governance and the ability to navigate diverse stakeholder relationships. Practical implications The research provides valuable insights for business school deans and other academic leaders aspiring to university presidencies, offering strategies for professional development and leadership transition. Originality/value This study offers a unique perspective on the transition from business school leadership to university presidency. It combines insider observations with Dr Olian’s reflections to provide a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in higher education leadership.

A grounded theory study on how Chinese international graduates of mental health programs in the United States of America adapt to professional practice in China

ABSTRACT Objective Many Chinese international graduates, having completed graduate-level programs that teach students to provide mental health services to clients (e.g. counselling, psychology, social work) in the United States of America, return to China for professional practice. However, their adaptation process often brings unexpected challenges. This study aimed to develop a process model of how Chinese international graduates from mental health programs adapted to professional practice upon their return to China. Method Using grounded theory, the researchers collected data by interviewing 12 participants who studied in mental health programs in the United States of America and returned to China for professional practice. Results A process model described how returning Chinese international graduates adapted to professional practice in China was developed. The model included the themes of chaos, transition, integration, emotional reactions, and coping strategies. Discussion The Chinese international graduates went through a process of chaos, transition, and integration. They used numerous coping strategies to facilitate the adjustment process. During the process, they experienced various emotions, including both pleasant and unpleasant feelings. The study findings offer valuable insights for returning Chinese international graduates, mental health programs in the United States of America, and the counselling profession in China.

Multistakeholder collaborative strategies for transition towards solar energy storage

Multistakeholder collaborative strategies for transition towards solar energy storage

Transition Metal‐Based High‐Entropy Materials for Catalysis

ABSTRACTHigh‐entropy materials (HEMs) have emerged as a pioneering paradigm in recent years, drawing substantial interest due to their unique combination of diverse elemental constituents and homogeneous solid‐solution structure. This novel material class not only opens up extensive potential for materials discovery through a broad spectrum of elemental combinations but also facilitates fine‐tuning of properties thanks to its distinctive microstructural characteristics. HEMs have garnered considerable attention across various applications, particularly in catalysis. The virtually infinite variations in elemental and compositional combinations within these multi‐elemental systems enable meticulous optimization of the catalytic performance. Additionally, the high‐entropy solid‐solution structure potentially enhances structural, thermal, and chemical stability, which is vital for ensuring functionality under harsh conditions. Herein, we thoroughly explore the exceptional attributes of HEMs, designing strategies for transition metal‐based catalysis, and three major catalytic fields of HEMs: electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, and thermocatalysis. This discussion aspires to provide valuable perspectives into the advancements and innovations in catalyst design and development.

Impact of policy adjustments on low carbon transition strategies in construction using evolutionary game theory

The construction industry is generally characterized by high emissions, making its transition to low-carbon practices essential for achieving a low-carbon economy. However, due to information asymmetry, there remains a gap in research regarding the strategic interactions and reward/punishment mechanisms between governments and firms throughout this transition. This paper addresses this gap by investigating probabilistic and static reward and punishment evolutionary games. The findings indicate that (1) Probabilistic rewards and penalties policies are more effective during the initial stages of the transition, whereas static mechanisms are more conducive to ensuring long-term stability. (2) The maximum values of rewards and penalties significantly influence the evolution of the low-carbon transition, with higher incentives enhancing motivation and more significant penalties imposing stricter constraints. (3) An increase in the cost of government involvement facilitates the low-carbon transition. (4) The benefits to both government and enterprises are critical in determining the application of static versus probabilistic rewards and penalties. The government may decide to cap probabilistic rewards and penalties by the magnitude of the benefits or adopt static rewards and penalties. This study offers theoretical support and a decision-making framework for developing effective low-carbon policies.

Proposed Family Business Leadership Transition Strategy At Pt Sma

Effective leadership transitions are critical to the continuity and stability of family businesses, especially during generational shifts, which often bring significant challenges in conflict management. PT SMA, a family-owned food manufacturer, recently experienced a leadership change from the founder to a younger, less experienced leader. This transition caused conflict among stakeholders due to inadequate succession planning and differing perspectives across generations. This study examines strategies to address these conflicts and challenges at PT SMA. Key conflict points identified during leadership transitions include adjustments in leadership style and strategic vision, which can have a negative impact on organizational performance. This study proposes a structured approach to effective conflict management, emphasizing the development of a clear succession plan, facilitating conflict resolution, aligning organizational culture, and effective change management. By implementing these strategies, PT SMA aims to achieve a smoother transition, minimize conflict, and promote organizational stability. The findings will provide valuable insights for PT SMA and similar family businesses on the success of transition management and its impact on continued success. This study highlights the need to address challenges such as employee turnover and strategic disagreements, which can lead to dissatisfaction among long-term employees. Ultimately, effective conflict management is critical for new leaders to navigate these challenges and ensure a successful leadership transition. focus and advise on effective change management.

Harnessing nuclear power for sustainable electricity generation and achieving zero emissions

Nuclear power plays a pivotal role in sustainable electricity generation and global net zero emissions, contributing significantly to this secure pathway. Nuclear power capacity is expected to double, escalating from 413 gigawatts (GW) in early 2022 to 812 GW by 2050 within the net zero emissions (NZE) paradigm. The global energy landscape is undergoing significant transformation as nations strive to transition to more sustainable energy systems. Amidst this shift, nuclear power has emerged as a crucial component in the pursuit of a sustainable energy transition. This study examines nuclear power's multifaceted role in shaping sustainable energy transition. It delves into nuclear energy's contributions toward decarbonization efforts, highlighting its capacity to provide low-carbon electricity and its potential role in mitigating climate change. Furthermore, the study explores the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating nuclear power into energy transition strategies, addressing issues such as safety, waste management, and public perception. In conclusion, the global nuclear power capacity is anticipated to reach approximately 530 GW by 2050, representing a substantial shortfall of 35% compared with the trajectory outlined in the NZE pathway. Under the NZE scenario, nuclear power demonstrates exceptional expansion, nearly doubling from 413 GW in early 2022 to 812 GW by 2050. Concurrently, the trajectory highlights a transformative shift in renewable energy investments, with annual expenditures surging from an average of US$325 billion during 2016–2020 to an impressive US$1.3 trillion between 2031 and 2035. These projections underscore the critical role of nuclear and renewable energy investments in achieving global sustainability and emission reduction goals.

Axe and a Handshake – A Scoping Review of the Transition from Public Safety Occupations

Exiting a public safety occupation (e.g., paramedics, police, firefighters) and entering retirement is unique in many ways. There are heightened risks and demands associated with essential emergency services that involve personal sacrifices and commitment and the absence of this intense role is significant requiring an adjustment. Public safety personnel (PSP) leave their professions for various reasons including age-related retirement and forced retirement due to illness or injury and little is known about their experiences during the transition. The objective of this review is to summarize the existing body of research. The methodology for scoping reviews outlined in the five-stage framework by Arksey and O’Malley (2005) was followed. Abstract screening of 5,801 papers yielded 128 studies for full-text screening. Forty-five papers were accepted by at least two of three reviewers for data extraction and analysis. High level themes emerged including cumulative impacts, separation from identity and culture, and buffers. The study found that there is a need for planning and support for those exiting public safety professions. Financial planning is the focus of pre-planning when it exists and applied research is needed to further understand psychosocial risk and protective factors to support the development of acceptable transition strategies and resources.

Energy Transition Enhancement in Emerging Economies: EU's and Japan's Strategies for Central Asia

The paper operationalizes the notion of strategy for energy transition enhancement (SETE) as a specific set of energy transition diplomacy (ETD) instruments tuned to a particular external/ third country or region/ context. The paper shows that the ideational parameters and structural components of a (supra)nation's energy transition strategy influence its ETD. Being a geographically specific form of a (supra) nation's ETD, SETE is susceptible to the shifts in global, (supra)national, and third country/ region contexts. The paper examines the European Union (EU)'s and Japan's approaches to fostering energy transition in Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan). Central Asian economies' robust renewable energy (RE) development potential is barely tapped due to technological, financing, and institutional constraints. The EU and Japan pursue energy transition security, possess certain technological advantages, and seek greater normative power in global decarbonization. The study argues that these aspects make cooperation among the EU, Japan, and Central Asian economies feasible and mutually attractive. Received: 9 June 2024 | Revised: 18 November 2024 | Accepted: 26 December 2024 Conflicts of Interest The author declares that she has no conflicts of interest to this work. Data Availability Statement The data that support the findings of this study are openly available in United Nations Climate Change at https://unfccc.int/NDCREG, in United Nations Climate Change at https://unfccc.int/node/61095, in United Nations Trade and Development Data Hub at https://unctadstat.unctad.org/datacentre/dataviewer/US.FTRI, in Climatescope by Bloomberg NEF at https://www.global-climatescope.org Author Contribution Statement Elena Shadrina: Conceptualization, Methodology, Resources, Data curation, Writing - original draft, Writing - review & editing, Visualization, Supervision, Project administration, Funding acquisition.

From fossil fuels to alternative fuels: strategy development for a sustainable transport sector in Germany

BackgroundMany countries agreed to reduce CO2 emissions to limit global warming under the terms of the Paris Agreement. In Europe, this agreement is supported by the climate targets introduced under the European Green Deal and the Fit for 55 package. Although Germany has made substantial progress in reducing emissions across various sectors, the transport sector remains a notable exception, showing little improvement. It is therefore essential to reevaluate the transport sector to strengthen its contribution to achieving the emission reduction targets. The aim of this study is to identify and propose strategies for shifting from fossil fuel-based transport to a more sustainable mode centred on alternative fuels. To investigate the potential pathways, an integrated approach is developed using a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA).ResultsA two-step survey was used to collect data from different stakeholders in order to derive the key factors for the implementation of alternative fuels and devise transition strategies. The findings show that reducing GHG emissions, resource competition, and the impacts of environmental regulations are the most important factors for evaluating the transition strategies. On the other hand, reducing the competitiveness of fossil fuels through increased prices, as well as technical and infrastructural support, are the most promising strategies.ConclusionsThe sustainable transition in the transport sector is fundamentally driven by the use of renewable fuel alternatives as sustainable energy carriers to replace fossil fuels. The use and deployment of renewable fuel alternatives will play the most significant role in the defossilization of the transport sector, on course to achieve a 55% reduction by 2030 and reaching climate-neutrality by 2050. However, identification of the proper transition strategies in the phase-out of fossil fuels and their replacement with renewable fuel alternatives necessitates a comprehensive evaluation framework. This work contributes to this by developing a holistic evaluation framework, enabling the incorporation of multiple stakeholders within the identification and evaluation of the transition strategies. While several strategies are identified, stakeholders agree that reducing the competitiveness of fossil fuels through increased prices and lower subsidies would be the best strategy.

In perspective: Nepal’s LDC graduation: Implications, opportunities, and pathways

In this paper, Nepal’s journey toward graduating from the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) category, a significant milestone anticipated for November 2026, is discussed. It evaluates Nepal’s progress in meeting the three key criteria for LDC graduation: the income criterion, Human Assets Index (HAI), and Economic and Environmental Vulnerability Index (EVI). A comparative analysis with Bhutan, which graduated in 2023, and Bangladesh, aiming for graduation in 2026, highlights the different economic paths and development challenges each country encounters. The article also discusses the potential consequences of Nepal’s LDC graduation, including the loss of preferential trade benefits and concessional aid. It outlines Nepal’s preparations, which involve the Smooth Transition Strategy (STS) and the 16th Five-Year Plan, both emphasizing macroeconomic stability, economic transformation, and social inclusion. While the article identifies key opportunities, such as increased foreign investment and an improved international reputation, it also underscores the challenges Nepal will need to address to ensure sustainable growth after graduation, particularly through strategic international partnerships and development diplomacy.

Network Evolutionary Game Analysis of Coal-to-Hydrogen CCUS Technology Dissemination in Carbon Trading Market

Integrating coal-to-hydrogen production with Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and facilitating a shift towards a more sustainable energy paradigm. This paper explores the diffusion of CCUS technology within the coal-to-hydrogen sector against the dynamic backdrop of the carbon trading market. An evolutionary game-theoretic approach is utilized within a small-world network framework to analyze the spread of CCUS technology among coal-to-hydrogen enterprises. The simulation reveals that current market dynamics, along with technological, market, and policy-related uncertainties, do not robustly encourage the adoption of CCUS. As the carbon trading market continues to mature, carbon prices become a significant factor influencing the diffusion of CCUS technology in coal-to-hydrogen processes. Furthermore, investment costs, hydrogen market prices, and governmental policies are identified as pivotal elements in the propagation of CCUS technology. This study contributes valuable insights into the sustainable development of the hydrogen industry and the broader implications for low-carbon energy transition strategies.

Construction of S-scheme BiOCl/Bi24O31Cl10 heterojunction by thermally induced in-situ phase transition strategy for photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin

Construction of S-scheme BiOCl/Bi24O31Cl10 heterojunction by thermally induced in-situ phase transition strategy for photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin

Constructing a novel type-II + Z SrTiO3/α-Bi2O3/β-Bi2O3 junction based on phase transition strategy for super-fast removal of antibiotics and H2 evolution

Constructing a novel type-II + Z SrTiO3/α-Bi2O3/β-Bi2O3 junction based on phase transition strategy for super-fast removal of antibiotics and H2 evolution

Modulating built-in electric field via Br induced partial phase transition for robust alkaline freshwater and seawater electrolysis.

Repulsing Cl- to reduce its negative effects during seawater electrolysis is a promising strategy to guard against the corrosion of high-valence metal sites. Herein, we synthesized Fe2P/Ni2P by a facile Br-induced partial in situ phase transition strategy. This Fe2P/Ni2P possessed intensified built-in electric field (BEF) due to large work function difference (ΔΦ), demonstrating outstanding OER and HER activity in alkaline freshwater/seawater solution and exhibiting a low cell voltage for an anion exchange membrane water electrolyzer (AEMWE) system. Both experiments and theoretical results verify that the interfacial charge redistribution induced by the enhanced BEF optimizes the adsorption strength for the intermediates. Moreover, the appropriate phosphorus-oxygen anion self-transformation can protect the NiOOH active species from corrosion by repulsing Cl- in alkaline seawater. This work not only proposes a fresh perception of the water/seawater splitting mechanism but also provides new design principles to defend active sites in seawater-to-H2 conversion systems.

Justice or just plans? Reviewing the energy transition strategy of Brazil's Ceará state

This study evaluates Ceará's Just Energy Transition Plan (JETP), located in Brazil, through the lens of energy justice, in the context of the global energy transition. While recognizing the potential benefits of this transition, the study also identifies risks of exacerbating existing regional socioeconomic disparities and energy injustices. By conducting a thorough review of energy justice literature, analyzing the legislative evolution, and systematizing documented cases of regional energy injustices, our research assesses the coherence of the JETP in addressing these issues. This study makes a unique contribution to the literature by providing an empirical analysis of policy intra-coherence in a Brazilian state within the Global South context. It underscores the critical need for policy frameworks that comprehensively address all dimensions of energy justice, ensuring a balance between environmental goals and social justice principles. The findings highlight the essential role of policy coherence in achieving just energy transitions, particularly in regions facing significant socio-economic and environmental challenges.

Aerodynamic Performance of Propeller–Wing in Continuous Transition Mode Under Different Strategies

Transition mode, which is characterized by highly nonlinear aerodynamic properties critical to the safety and stability of the electric vertical-takeoff-and-landing aircraft during flight, is still not well understood with respect to aerodynamics and flight dynamics. This paper establishes a simulation method based on the overset mesh method, which is suitable for the aerodynamic performance research during continuous transition mode. A calculation method for the transition corridor is proposed based on the variation law of wing aerodynamic coefficients with tilt angle obtained from simulations. The impact of different aerodynamic coefficient settings on the transition corridor boundary is analyzed. The aerodynamic performance of the propeller–wing system under different tilt routes within the transition corridor is analyzed. It is found that the system’s aerodynamic performance is superior when there is a pause during tilting compared to tilt with uniform velocity. The pause angle should be set in the early phase of the tilt, not less than 60 deg, and the pause duration should be about 9% of the total tilt time. These provide references for calculating more accurate transition corridors and optimizing transition strategies.

Synergistic effects of air pollution control policies: Evidence from China

To control severe air pollution, multiple policies have been adopted in China. However, the combined effect of these policies on reducing air pollution remains uncertain. By systematically evaluating the complementary and substitution effects of policy combinations across different regions, this study aims to identify the optimal combinations of multiple air pollution control policies and to explore the mechanisms of policy synergy, maximizing improvements in air quality. Using a panel data from 334 Chinese cities collected between 2015 and 2019, we assess the effectiveness of fifteen air quality policies across eight categories. Our findings indicate that combining diverse policy measures yields more significant improvements in air quality due to the complementary effects among policies. Conversely, combinations of similar policy types exhibit weaker effects because of substitution effects. A comprehensive policy package, integrating stringent industrial emissions standards, residential energy transition strategies, market-based trading mechanisms, and multi-level supervision, may represent the most effective approach for air quality enhancement.

A MINI REVIEW OF RENEWABLE ENERGY STRATEGIES FOR PULAU PERHENTIAN NET ZERO JOURNEY

Sustainable energy solutions and carbon emissions reduction is imperative in the face of escalating environmental challenges. Pulau Perhentian, a pristine island paradise, serves as a compelling case study for exploring energy transition strategies towards achieving a net zero footprint. This paper review critically assesses existing literature on Pulau Perhentian energy transition initiatives, with a focus on renewable energy integration, microgrid systems, and energy efficiency measures. The review highlights the significance of energy consumption on the island's ecosystem and socio-economic development, emphasizing the urgency of reducing fossil fuel reliance. Microgrid systems emerge as pivotal for localized energy production, resilience, and community engagement. The paper explores energy storage, management strategies, and the challenges of implementing sustainable practices across sectors. By synthesizing existing knowledge, the review informs effective energy transition pathways for Pulau Perhentian and beyond. Insights extend to global policymakers, researchers, and practitioners engaged in similar efforts. Ultimately, this review underscores energy transition's critical role in preserving Pulau Perhentian's natural beauty while fostering sustainability and resilience.

Reduction-Induced Topological Phase Transition to Construct K2Mn[Fe(CN)6] Superstructures for High-Performance Sodium-Ion Batteries.

Potassium manganese-based Prussian blue analogs (KMn-HCF) hold great potential as cathodes for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). However, the rapid synthesis process often results in excessively small particle sizes, increasing surface area and thereby intensifying side reactions with the electrolyte, which can damage the cathode electrolyte interface (CEI) and diminish cycling stability. Herein, we designed a topological phase transition strategy to assemble small KMn-HCF particles into a 600 nm cubic superstructure. Structurally, the assembled structure in KMn-HCF significantly improves the cycling stability and durability of KMn-HCF as a SIB cathode by reducing defects, enhancing the uniformity and stability of the CEI layer, minimizing contact with the electrolyte, and reinforcing structural integrity. From a compositional perspective, KMn-HCF exhibits lower Jahn-Teller distortion, reducing overall lattice distortion while allowing larger K+ to act as pillars, supporting the Mn-HCF framework and preventing capacity degradation caused by structural deterioration. The robust CEI layer formed in the KMn-HCF cubic superstructure delivered stable charge-discharge voltage profiles and reversible plateaus, achieving a capacity retention of 88.4%/89.1% after 1000 cycles at current densities of 0.1 and 0.5 A g-1, respectively.