Sustainability Of Company Research Articles

OPTIMISATION OF STRATEGIES FOR WORKING WITH COUNTERPARTIES AND RISK MANAGEMENT AT UTILITY INFRASTRUCTURE ENTERPRISES

The objective of this paper is to examine and enhance strategies for managing relationships with counterparties and mitigating risks in utility infrastructure enterprises. The paper seeks to analyse contemporary approaches and challenges faced by these enterprises, offering recommendations for improving their strategies in counterparty interactions and risk management. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance operational stability, competitiveness, and sustainable development in a dynamic business environment. Methodology. The research presents a critical review and analysis of the existing risk management and counterparty strategies employed by utility infrastructure enterprises. The methodology comprises an examination of current practices, the identification of key problems, and an evaluation of modern approaches, including digital transformation, process automation, and innovative management methods. By synthesising existing research and case studies, the paper identifies the strengths and weaknesses of various strategies and recommends improvements. Results. The analysis identified several key challenges faced by utilities in managing counterparties and risks, including inadequate risk management systems, outdated business processes and poor communication. Process automation, digital transformation and improved stakeholder integration are identified in the document as critical factors for optimising operations. It also emphasises the importance of careful selection of counterparties, performance monitoring and staff development to mitigate risks and foster better partnerships. Practical implications. The recommendations set forth in the paper provide actionable strategies for utility infrastructure enterprises to optimise their management of counterparties and risks. The implementation of these strategies, including the utilisation of digital tools, enhanced internal communication and a focus on staff development, can facilitate improvements in efficiency, risk management and long-term sustainability for utility companies. These recommendations are particularly beneficial for those in managerial or decision-making roles who are seeking to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving business environment. Value / Originality. This paper makes a significant contribution to the field by offering a comprehensive analysis of the strategies available for optimising counterparty relations and risk management in the utility sector. The value of this approach lies in its integration of modern technological solutions with traditional risk management practices. By offering practical, research-based recommendations, the paper addresses current gaps in the literature and provides new insights into how utility enterprises can better manage both internal and external challenges.

Automation and the Importance of Reskilling Workers: A Case Study in the Automotive Industry

Rapid technological developments, especially the spread of automation and artificial intelligence (AI), have been transforming the world of work, raising some concerns about the future of employment. Automation presents both opportunities and challenges for the labor market. While we can expect productivity to grow with automation, and with-it economic growth, the fear of job loss linked to automation is also present. This paper aims to study the impact of automation on employment, with a special focus on the automotive industry, which stands out as one of the sectors most affected by automation. A second objective is to examine the reskilling procedures implemented by companies in this context, with a view to identifying effective strategies that bring benefits to both the employer and the workforce. To analyze the implications of automation in the automotive industry and the strategies adopted by companies to face these implications, we carried out an exploratory case study, using interviews, with the participation of four companies located in the districts of Minho, in the North of Portugal. The results show that, considering the impact of automation on employment, there is no negative impact since the destruction of some jobs was compensated by the creation of new ones. As for the reskilling procedures implemented by companies, results indicate that reskilling and upskilling are important strategies to prepare workers to transition to new jobs and tasks. Automation has been present in the automotive sector for many years and it has been gaining greater relevance over time. Businesses gain from several benefits provided by automation, including improved value for money, increased productivity, and increased worker safety. At the same time, they also face some challenges, such as high investment costs and workers' apprehension about transforming workplaces. Nonetheless, the investment pays off since companies invest heavily in reskilling their employees, and thus have a more qualified workforce that is prepared for any change that may arise. This paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the implications of automation in the labour market in the automotive sector and highlights the importance of workforce reskilling for the sustainability of companies. These findings are relevant for both employers and employees.

Sustainability in European luxury tourism companies: an analysis of practices and managerial perspectives

Purpose This paper aims to present findings from a preliminary study aimed at investigating sustainability practices and managerial perceptions within European luxury tourism companies. The study addressed two key research questions: What is the present state of sustainability practices in the luxury tourism sector? What are the managers' perspectives and the prevailing trends in the adoption of sustainable approaches? Design/methodology/approach The study used a mixed methods approach to gather data from a diverse range of European luxury tourism companies. The survey and the interview of companies’ representatives encompassed various organisational types engaged in different tourism activities, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of sustainability practices within the sector. Organisational characteristics, such as size, turnover and location, were considered to ensure a representative sample. Findings The findings of the study reveal a robust commitment to environmental, social and economic sustainability across the luxury tourism industry. Despite variations in organisational characteristics, including size, turnover and location, the study identified a lack of significant differences in sustainability practices, indicating a noteworthy homogeneity within the sector. The findings also show that a high percentage of companies hold sustainability certifications and share an emphasis on authenticity, local engagement and economic profitability. Research limitations/implications The study's sample size may limit the generalisability of the findings. A larger sample size would enhance the study's robustness and allow for more comprehensive insights into sustainability practices within the luxury tourism sector. The study's focus on European luxury tourism companies may limit its applicability to other regions or contexts. Originality/value This study contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into sustainability practices and managerial perspectives within the European luxury tourism sector. The study offers original insights into the current state of sustainability in luxury tourism and highlights opportunities for further research and refinement of sustainability initiatives within the sector.

Exploring the Implications of Working Conditions for Corporate Sustainability in Last-Mile Delivery Platform Companies

AbstractLast-mile delivery platforms have recently emerged as effective business models to match supply and demand, even though they have been criticized for potentially exploiting their workers. This paper investigates the corporate sustainability and socio-economic trade-offs of platform companies in relation to working conditions (i.e., work relationships, social subsystems, and technical subsystem). A survey of 392 paid-per-order workers from six food delivery platforms across Spain was conducted to validate our research framework. Our findings provide a nuanced understanding of the impact of working conditions on corporate sustainability in platform companies. On the one hand, there are positive implications for both social and economic sustainability in the presence of higher earnings, rights and protections, and empowerment for workers. Conversely, prolonged work relationships between workers and platform companies are negatively related to workers’ perceived stress and individual performance. Based on these insights, we advance our understanding of how platform companies can deal with conflicting objectives regarding working conditions by adopting an instrumental approach in the case of short-term workers and an integrative approach with long-term workers.

Approach to ESG Risk Assessment of Construction Companies Considering Financial Data

In modern conditions, environmental, social and corporate responsibility (ESG) factors are becoming increasingly important in assessing the sustainability and financial performance of companies, especially in resource-intensive industries such as construction. The purpose of this study is to develop and apply a comprehensive methodology for assessing ESG risks of construction companies taking into account financial indicators. Due to the limited availability of ESG data of Russian construction firms, the methodology was tested on hypothetical companies X, Y and Z, which allowed to demonstrate the assessment process and identify the potential of the methodology for practical application. The study collected and normalized data on environmental, social and governance factors, as well as financial indicators, using weighting factors to reflect the relative importance of each indicator. The results showed significant differences between companies, identifying areas for improvement and providing customized recommendations to improve their ESG performance and financial sustainability. The methodology proved to be effective even with limited data availability, offering a valuable tool for companies and investors to assess and improve ESG practices in the construction sector

Additive Manufacturing Applicability for Efficient Solid Waste Management

Objective: This study intends to perform a theoretical analysis of Additive Manufacturing applicability and integration with Solid Waste Management practices. Theoretical Framework: The main concepts and theories in Industry 4.0, Additive Manufacturing, Solid Waste Management, Cleaner Production, Reserve Logistics stand out, providing a solid basis for understanding the investigation context. Method: This study investigated two of the largest sustainable companies that develop green products and resources for Additive Manufacturing uses operating in the Brazilian market. The information was collected from portals, reports of results, processes, and green manufactured products, according to literature. Results and Discussion: The study results that Additive Manufacturing implementation generated significantly less waste due to technology applied and its usage of green and efficient inputs. Research Implications: This research provides insights into how the results can be applied in Additive Manufacturing Field. These implications could encompass the waste management area and the recycling methods for polypropylene residues. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by analyzing the relationship between additive manufacturing and waste management with the Industry 4.0 concepts, showing additive manufacturing as an alternative way of more sustainable production.

The role of cyber intelligence in policing cybercrime in South Africa: Insights from law enforcement officers

ABSTRACT The rapid increase of technology and the sophistication in which it is used to obtain and manipulate information presents fertile ground for cybercriminals. Thus, the consequent increase of cybercrime in South Africa poses a threat to individuals, government, businesses, and security agencies; ultimately causing extensive financial losses to the economy. The huge preventive cost incurred by putting in place stringent preventative measures, affect the financial status of individuals and threatens the sustainability of many companies. This study aimed to examine the policing of cybercrime in South Africa by analysing the experiences of police officers who are involved in the policing of this crime. It focussed on the use of cyber intelligence and cybersecurity measures for monitoring, preventing, and combating cybercrime. An empirical study was conducted in five selected provinces of South Africa, and Tesch’s data analysis method was used. The findings indicate the challenges that investigators encounter in obtaining credible digital evidence such as the frequent expiry of digital forensic licences. These challenges are compounded by victims’ unwillingness to testify due to the fear of losing their clients, and the need to protect the reputation of their companies.

Excelling Green Supply Chain Management Practices Through Maturity Model: A Case Study of Fish 96 Company

This research aims to improve GSCM practices at Fish 96, an SME in tilapia aquaculture located in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. It identifies and addresses some critical business issues regarding reducing the DOA rate, improving operational efficiency, and reducing environmental impacts. The literature review forms the theoretical basis of GSCM practices such as green procurement, manufacturing, distribution, and reverse logistics. A new GSCM maturity model is developed and validated with the case study of Fish 96, which eval_uates the company's current maturity levels and structured improvements. It assesses that Fish 96 stands at the initial stage in the journey of GSCM. Most practices are either nonexistent or at an initial point of implementation. The suggested maturity model includes five levels: Nonexistent, Aware, Intermediate, Advanced, and Sustainable, which represent a clear roadmap for Fish 96 to improve its GSCM performance. The research recommends adopting broad green practices across all supply chain dimensions, emphasising systematic strategies and enhanced supplier engagement by focusing on efficiency measures. With these recommendations, Fish 96 will contribute to reducing operational costs while reducing environmental impacts and improving social outcomes, thus improving the company's long-term sustainability and competitiveness.

A review of strategic cash flow management models and their role in driving financial growth and sustainability for energy companies in developing markets

Effective cash flow management is critical to the financial health and sustainability of energy companies, particularly in developing markets where economic volatility and operational challenges can constrain growth. This review explores strategic cash flow management models and their impact on driving financial growth and sustainability for energy companies operating in these markets. It highlights the importance of optimizing working capital, leveraging debt and equity financing, and implementing robust risk management frameworks to ensure liquidity and long-term viability. The review categorizes the most prevalent cash flow management models used in energy companies, such as the Free Cash Flow (FCF) model, the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model, and the Cash Conversion Cycle (CCC) model. Each model's relevance is analyzed in the context of fluctuating energy prices, regulatory changes, and currency instability, which are common issues in developing markets. Additionally, the role of digital tools and financial technologies (FinTech) in enhancing the precision and efficiency of cash flow forecasting and management is discussed. Key findings suggest that strategic cash flow management not only supports immediate liquidity needs but also positions energy companies for sustainable growth by optimizing investment opportunities and mitigating financial risks. A significant emphasis is placed on the need for agile financial planning, where scenario-based forecasting and adaptive cash flow strategies are essential to navigating uncertainties in the energy sector. Furthermore, the review underscores the importance of integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into cash flow models, aligning financial sustainability with broader corporate responsibility goals. In conclusion, this review offers a comprehensive analysis of cash flow management strategies that are crucial for energy companies in developing markets, providing actionable insights into achieving financial resilience and long-term growth.

Adaptive business policies for the energy transition: Balancing short-term profitability with long-term sustainability in oil and gas companies

This review examines the challenges and opportunities faced by oil and gas companies as they navigate the global energy transition, focusing on the delicate balance between maintaining short-term profitability and ensuring long-term sustainability. As the world shifts towards cleaner energy sources, traditional fossil fuel companies are under increasing pressure to adapt their business models and strategies. This study synthesizes current literature on adaptive business policies, sustainability initiatives, and their impacts on the oil and gas industry's future. Through a comprehensive analysis of case studies and empirical research, we identify several key mechanisms through which companies can effectively balance short-term financial objectives with long-term sustainability goals. These include diversification into renewable energy, investment in carbon capture and storage technologies, and the adoption of circular economy principles. Our findings suggest that successful adaptation requires a nuanced understanding of market trends, strong leadership commitment, and strategic use of technology and innovation. The review also highlights the potential of partnerships and collaborations in accelerating the transition process. By identifying key factors contributing to successful adaptive strategies and their subsequent impacts on both profitability and sustainability, this study provides valuable insights for industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers working towards a more sustainable energy future. Future research directions are proposed to further explore the long-term viability and scalability of these adaptive business policies across different market contexts.

Innovating for sustainability in food and beverage companies: the role of governance and environmental factors in climate change mitigation

PurposeFocusing on the food and beverage (F&B) sectors, this study aims to identify combinations of external environmental factors (natural disasters and water stress) and internal corporate governance factors (corporate social responsibility [CSR] sustainability committee, board gender diversity and stakeholder engagement) that lead to the integration of climate change mitigation innovation and technologies.Design/methodology/approachA fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) was conducted on a global sample of 262 listed companies in the F&B sectors. Two additional analyses were performed for European and Asian companies.FindingsIn the three models, the presence of CSR sustainability committees and stakeholder engagement was crucial for achieving the integration of climate change mitigation innovation and technologies. The relevance of board gender diversity differs between the European and Asian models, highlighting potential regional influences on corporate climate innovation decisions. The combination of external and internal factors is the key to justifying different approaches to achieving climate innovation.Originality/valueThis study offers insights into the factors driving the integration of climate change mitigation innovation and technologies into company strategies. Related strategies must combine external and internal factors to enhance the climate resilience and competitiveness of F&B companies while reducing their environmental impact.

العلامة التجارية وتأثيرها على ولاء العملاء في الشركات

The aim of this research is to study the impact of brand strength on customer loyalty, with a focus on the factors that contribute to building this loyalty. This study emphasizes that a strong brand, high quality, and effective communication are critical factors in building customer loyalty. It also asserts that a brand is not just a name or a logo, but represents the identity and values that distinguish the company in the minds of customers. Customer loyalty is considered a vital element for the sustainability and growth of companies, as it reflects the level of customer commitment to the brand and their preference for it over competitors.

Information and Technology Governance Capability Analysis Using COBIT 2019: Case Study of CV Wirelessindo

The implementation of IT supports company sustainability. Large companies use IT as an integral part of their business model. Digital strategies must align with business strategies to achieve sustainability. Wirelessindo, established in 2007, provides IT solutions such as equipment, site surveys, network design and security, and tower installations. Its mission is to increase company productivity to win the competition in the era of Industry 4.0. IT is used to enhance customer service and internal business process efficiency. Initial investigations found issues with IT function mismatches, financial losses due to data loss, errors in IT equipment installation and configuration, and business process incidents caused by emerging risks. Identified root problems include employee knowledge gaps, risk management disparities, errors in defining business needs, and change management gaps. Based on these findings, IT governance evaluation was chosen as the research focus. This study aims to provide an overview of CV Wirelessindo IT capability levels and recommendations for improvements to meet expected levels. COBIT 2019 were used in this study. The General Manager, IT Division Manager, Software Development Team, Network Monitoring Team, Project Manager, and HR Manager were selected as respondents based on the Responsible, Accountable, Checked, Informed chart guidelines. Of the nine selected objectives, BAI08 showed level 0. APO12, BAI02, BAI06, BAI07, and DSS01 showed level 1. APO07, BAI10, and DSS03 showed capability level 2. Therefore, 61 recommendations were provided to raise the IT governance capability level to level 3 for all objectives.

THE EFFECT OF GENDER DIVERSITY AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE ON STOCK RETURNS WITH SUSTAINABILITY AS AN INTERVENING VARIABLE

Sustainability and return on stock represent crucial factors in a company's development. Board gender diversity and financial performance can influence a company's Sustainability and return on stock. This study employs a quantitative research method analyzing data from 17 companies, utilizing financial reports from 2018 to 2021. The research findings indicate no significant influence of board gender diversity and financial performance on stock return through a company's Sustainability. These findings underscore the complexity of the dynamics between these factors, emphasizing the need for an integrated approach in corporate management to achieve an optimal balance between Sustainability, return on stock, and inclusive business practices.

Impacts of human resources management strategies and practices on workers performance in construction industry: a review

Human resource management (HRM) plays a vital role in the growth and sustainability of companies and in achieving company objectives, as HRM relates to the workers’ practices and their functional roles. The main objective of this paper is to identify the HRM strategies, practices and their impact on worker’s performance in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) Industry. The method which was used in this study was based on three stages. After the completion of the database and web engine search, the total number of sources found were 149. Next, the sources’ titles and abstracts were reviewed and those marked as relevant to the review were chosen to be retrieved and thoroughly reviewed. The sources were chosen based on the following inclusion criteria: (a) the sources implied in HRM strategies in the AEC industry, (b) the sources released between 2010 and 2023, (c) the online sources, and (d) the English-language sources. Also, the selected sources are reviewed to extract the factors using the content analysis method which is a thorough and systematic study of the contents of a specific body of material. In addition, content analysis is carried out to extract practices of HRM strategies and their impact on worker performance. This can be followed up and observed through the figures and tables that come later. As a final result, which concludes the outputs of the previous stages which results in a first-round total of 31 HRM strategies practice but in the second-round result of reaching 39 different sources from 149 related sources. After that, discussing the most popular between them based on the appearance of it in the sources which reviewed beside that, the impact of it on worker’s performance were viewed in the AEC industry. Based on that, it was found the following 5 categories of strategies: (1) Human Resources Planning; (2) Polarization and Recruitment; (3) Training and Development; (4) Human Resources Following-up; (5) Career Planning. At the same time the most popular practices are based on appearance in sources: In terms of Human Resources Planning Strategy, “The company’s management analyses the functions accurately”. In Polarization and Recruitment Strategy, “The company’s internal resources are the best to provide its human resource needs” and “Selection and recruitment policies are in line with the company’s current and future needs”. In Training and Development of Human Resources Strategy, “The company evaluates the results of development and training programs to achieve the purpose of feedback”. In Human Resources Following-up Strategy, “There is a fair incentive system in the company”. In Career Planning Strategy, “There is a clear description of the relationship of workers to each other”. Finally, human resource management strategies and practices are one of the major players in the AEC industry, which is evidenced by its impact on the performance of workers. First published online 22 October 2024

ESG Performance and Enterprise Competitive Advantage Construction: A Case Study of Walmart

This essay opens with an in-depth discussion of the growing importance of ESG concepts in modern corporate management and highlights their significant role in promoting long-term corporate value creation. With the increasing global focus on sustainability, ESG concepts have become an integral part of corporate strategic planning and operational decision-making. Next, this article selects the global retail giant Walmart as a case study and uses SWOT analysis and other management tools to analyse in detail how Walmart has effectively constructed and consolidated its competitive advantages in the highly competitive market through the implementation of an active ESG strategy. The article specifically describes Walmart's practices on several ESG dimensions, including but not limited to the implementation of environmental protection measures, active support to the community, the enhancement of employee welfare, and the optimisation of corporate governance structure. In terms of environmental protection, Walmart has significantly reduced the environmental impact of its operations through measures such as reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency and promoting sustainable products. In terms of community support, the company has strengthened its ties with local communities and enhanced its brand image through various community programmes and charitable activities. Employee well-being has been achieved through improved working conditions and career development opportunities, which have not only increased employee satisfaction but also enhanced the company's attractiveness. The article concludes by summarising the important contribution of Walmart's ESG practices to the company's sustainability and long-term competitive advantage and suggests possible future strategic directions and recommendations for Walmart in ESG based on current market trends and company performance. These recommendations are intended to provide valuable references and insights for Walmart and other companies in their future strategic planning and decision-making processes, especially in terms of how to balance economic efficiency and social responsibility to achieve long-term sustainable development. However, due to the limitation of data and the depth of research on Walmart ESG, the article still has limitations.

Empirical Analysis of the ESG and Financial Performance: Evidence from Chinese Technology Enterprises

To date, the concept of sustainable development has gained global attention from companies and investors. One important reason for this is the increasing interest of investors in incorporating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) elements into their investments. The purpose of this dissertation is to analyze the correlation between ESG factor performance and corporate financial performance in Chinese technology enterprises. Additionally, the study focuses on Internet and medical technology companies to ensure relevance. The findings of the study provide guidance on ESG investment and sustainability for both companies and individual investors.

Analysis of the Effect of Good Corporate Governance Mechanisms and Financial Performance on the Disclosure of Sustainability Reports with Firm Size as a Moderating Variable in Banking Companies Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange 2017-2022

The purpose of this study was to test and analyze the effect of Good Corporate Governance (GCG) and others: managerial ownership, number of Board of Commissioners and Audit Committee, and Financial Performance, which included ROA and ROE on company sustainability in banking sub-sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. In addition, this study also aims to determine whether the firm size can be used as a moderation variable to strengthen or weaken the relationship between good corporate governance (GCG) and the financial performance of the company's sustainability. This research is a type of quantitative research with a descriptive approach. Purposive sampling techniques were used from 47 banking companies in the IDX, and 19 banks were included in the research sample within 6 years of the period. The data used are secondary data and data collection methods, accessed by accessing the IDX's 2017-2022 annual report. The results of this study show that good corporate governance (GCG) has no significant effect on sustainability. The audit committee has no significant effect on sustainability reports. Managerial ownership has a significant effect on sustainability reports, independent commissioners have no significant effect on sustainability reports, the Board of directors has no significant effect on sustainability reports, and financial performance has a significant effect on sustainability reports, where ROA and ROE have a significant effect on sustainability reports. Firm size can moderate the influence of GCG and financial performance with sustainability reports. Keywords: good corporate governance, audit committee, board of commissioners, managerial ownership, financial performance, ROA, ROE, sustainability report, and firm size

Kuit: An Enterprise's Commitment to Sustainability through Technological Development

This article is a case study that aims to show how Kuit, a social enterprise, addresses the challenge of technological management while meeting its social, environmental and economic business objectives. The study examines innovation through technological development as part of a business strategy to promote ethical and sustainable business practices, which are focused on the health and well-being of people through the production and distribution of kombucha. The relevance of the case study lies in showing the technological management strategy implemented by the founders of Kuit, which has led them to a process innovation and a patent application. This innovation has been recognized by the Secretariat of Innovation, Science and Technology of the State of Jalisco, with Kuit being one of the five finalists for the 2021 Jalisco Innovation Award. Innovation has allowed Kuit to be a sustainable company both technically and financially, fulfilling its social and environmental mission.

Generation Z and sustainability

A survey of 652 Generation Z students shows that there is great interest in the topic of sustainability but that there is less willingness to delve deeper into the topic of sustainable companies or sustainable product labels or to get involved in the area of sustainability themselves. Incentives therefore need to be created to increase this willingness. These incentives should cover several levels.