Dimensions Of Sustainability Research Articles

Do Sustainability Factors Influence Homestay Tourist Satisfaction and Revisit Intention: The Moderating Role of Local Community Attitude

ABSTRACT Sustainability can have a significant influence on tourist satisfaction. Therefore, this research investigates how sustainability dimensions can influence homestay tourist satisfaction. We also examine the moderating impact of local community attitudes on the relationship between tourist satisfaction and intention to revisit. Data were collected from 523 homestay tourist locations in India using a questionnaire-based survey. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) using SMART PLS4 was employed to analyze the data. Environmental, social, cultural, and institutional sustainability increases homestay tourist satisfaction and precipitates intention to revisit. However, economic sustainability does not directly influence tourist satisfaction. The moderation impact was identified, where local community attitude moderates the relationship between tourist satisfaction and intention to revisit. Sustainability can increase homestay tourist satisfaction. Therefore, homestay owners should invest in sustainable practices to attract tourists. Generating employment opportunities for local people and supporting local businesses that promote local culture and traditions could lead to tourists’ intention to revisit. Our study provides significant value to the homestay owners by explaining the moderating role of local community attitude because there was speculation but no empirical evidence to support how it can affect the relationship between tourist satisfaction and intention to revisit.

The nexus of customer agility and sustainability performance across tourism firms of various sizes

ABSTRACT This study aims to investigate how customer agility, specifically the ability to sense and respond to customer needs, affects the sustainability performance of tourism organizations across economic, social and environmental dimensions. The study also examines how the firms’ size moderates these relationships. The researchers collected 472 valid surveys from middle and senior managers of Chinese tourism organizations and used structural equation modelling (SEM) and multi-group analysis (MGA) to test the hypotheses. The results show that customer agility (customer sensing and responding capabilities) positively influences the sustainability performance of tourism organizations across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Additionally, the study indicates that the size of the firm moderates the impact of customer sensing capabilities on these sustainability dimensions. It also shows that while firm size influences the relationship between customer responding capabilities and social sustainability performance, it does not significantly alter economic or environmental sustainability outcomes. This study introduces a novel research framework to advance the understanding of how customer-centric strategies, particularly sensing and responding capabilities, impact the sustainability performance of tourism organizations. It also offers insights into understanding organizational characteristics that influence sustainability performance elements.

Redesigning quick commerce fresh and short food supply chains: circular economy strategies for sustainable last-mile operations

PurposeFresh and short food supply chains in grocery quick commerce (q-grocery FSFSCs), while valued for swift delivery, face challenges in sustainability, resource efficiency and scalability. This study aims to redesign the last mile of q-grocery FSFSCs by identifying and validating a framework of applicable circular economy (CE) practices. Furthermore, the study assesses the impact of these practices across various sustainability dimensions to understand their level of contribution to sustainable livelihoods and supply chain resilience.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a multi-phase approach. First, an integrative literature review identifies CE practices and strategies. Second, a survey gathers data on the relationship between these practices and strategies and their impact on sustainability. Third, the framework is validated using the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method in WarpPLS 8.0. Finally, k-means cluster analysis in Tableau 2019.4 groups CE practices based on their impact across five sustainability dimensions: environmental, economic, social, resource efficiency and scalability.FindingsThe study validates a framework and identifies high-impact CE practices, such as waste reduction, sustainable packaging, sustainable sourcing, route optimization, sustainable processes and customer convenience. Medium-impact practices include energy efficiency, sustainable fleet, resale and redistribution and information flow. Low-impact practices cover composting, reverse logistics and appropriate storage.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings assist q-grocery companies to adopt CE practices and strategies that support sustainable livelihoods and strengthen supply chain resilience while offering policymakers guidance to promote circularity.Originality/valueThis study is unique in the exploration of the intersection of quick commerce, FSFSCs and CE principles, providing actionable insights for sustainability in the q-grocery industry.

A multidimensional holistic sustainability model for production systems

ABSTRACT Manufacturing companies face a volatile environment with multiple sustainability challenges threatening their competitiveness. To meet these challenges, they need to adapt quickly to the changing demands and environment to improve their sustainability in production. Therefore, this contribution presents a holistic and multidimensional model for sustainable production systems based on three levels: elements, overarching elements, and dimensions. First, a systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted to capture the state of research. Second, two studies were conducted to identify and cluster the relevant sustainability elements. One of the studies is based on the SLR findings, which were verified by an expert survey. The other is based on a document analysis of sustainability reports. Finally, both studies are compared, and the results are presented. In total, 40 elements, such as energy efficiency, and eight overarching elements, such as efficiency, can be identified in addition to the three dimensions of economic, social, and environmental sustainability.

Investigating the Adoption of Virtual Libraries by Police Academies in Indonesia: An Enhanced TAM Model Aligned with the SDGs

The evolution of digital technology has changed the educational landscape, with virtual libraries becoming essential in the modern learning environment. The study investigates the adoption of virtual libraries among Indonesian police academies, where cadets need access to resources that support theoretical and practical training needs. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between perception of ease of use (PEOU), perception of usability (PU), external aspiration (EA), and alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4 in shaping cadets' intentions to use virtual libraries. Using an enhanced Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework, this quantitative study analyzed data from 140 cadets through structural equation modeling to examine the direct and indirect pathways of adoption intent. The findings revealed that PU significantly influenced adoption intentions, while PEOUs played a smaller role, suggesting that cadets prioritized the practical benefits of virtual libraries. However, neither the PU nor the PEOU mediates the relationship between EA, SDG alignment, and adoption intent, which suggests that external aspirations and SDG alignment alone are not enough to encourage cadet adoption in the absence of perceived direct benefits. These findings highlight the complex nature of technology adoption in special education settings, which emphasizes the need for tailored resources aligned with the cadet's operational and academic goals. The study contributes to the TAM literature by combining sustainability and aspiration dimensions, which offers insights for academy administrators and policymakers to improve the relevance of virtual libraries. To encourage adoption, the study recommends designing content that addresses cadet-specific training needs. Future research may explore the role of institutional support and longitudinal assessments to capture evolving perceptions of virtual libraries, further informing sustainable practices in police training.

Fermatean fuzzy score function and distance measure based group decision making framework for household waste recycling plant location selection

The household waste (HW) disposal and recycling have become a significant challenge due to increasing quantities of generated household wastes and increased levels of urbanization. Selecting locations/sites for building new HW recycling plant comprises numerous sustainability dimensions, thus, this work aims to develop new decision-making model for evaluating and prioritizing the HW recycling plant locations. This paper is categorized into three phases. First, we propose new improved score function to compare the Fermatean fuzzy numbers. Moreover, an example is presented to validate the effectiveness of proposed score function over the extant ones. Second, we introduce new distance measure to estimate the discrimination degree between Fermatean fuzzy sets (FFSs) and further discuss its advantages over the prior developed Fermatean fuzzy distance measures. Third, we introduce an integrated methodology by combining the method with the removal effects of criteria (MEREC), the stepwise weight assessment ratio analysis (SWARA) and the measurement alternatives and the ranking according to compromise solution (MARCOS) approaches with Fermatean fuzzy (FF) information, and named as the “FF-MEREC-SWARA-MARCOS” framework. In this method, the FF-distance measure is used to find the weights of involved decision-making experts. Moreover, an integrated criteria weighting method is presented with the combination of MEREC and SWARA models under the context of FFSs, while the combined FF-MEREC-SWARA-MARCOS model is applied to evaluate and prioritize the locations for HW recycling plant development, which illustrates its feasibility of the developed framework. Comparative study and sensitivity assessment are conducted to validate the obtained outcomes. This work provides a hybrid decision analysis approach, which marks a significant impact to the HW recycling plant location selection process with uncertain information.

Contextualising sustainable transhumant pastoralism: A systematic review

AbstractTranshumant pastoralism and sustainable development are two concepts that have long been treated as mutually exclusive elements in research on agriculture and livestock production. This study, therefore, aimed to establish the critical link between the two concepts by exploring the effects of transhumant pastoralism on economic, environmental and social sustainability, thereby conceptualising it within the broader sustainable development discourse. The study adopted a systematic literature review methodology to synthesise 145 studies related to the role of transhumant pastoralism in sustainable development in sub‐Saharan Africa. The paper employed thematic analysis to investigate the nature of transhumance and its implications for sustainability. The thematic analysis was based on the tripartite dimensions of sustainability—social, economic and environmental. The findings indicate that transhumance substantially impacts economic sustainability through the preservation of livelihoods, the creation of employment opportunities, and the generation of revenue. Nonetheless, it also poses challenges such as crop damage and the spread of zoonotic diseases, adversely affecting economic stability. Socially, transhumance promotes ethnoreligious cooperation and integration, enhancing social cohesion, but it also contributes to conflicts and security concerns. From the environmental perspective, transhumance has the potential to mitigate overgrazing and facilitate ecosystem regeneration. However, it is also linked to water contamination, deforestation, and the proliferation of invasive species. The study concluded that sustainable transhumant pastoralism must be conceptualised holistically, addressing the dimensions of sustainability simultaneously. It is recommended that effective stakeholder collaboration and comprehensive policy interventions be used to harness the benefits of transhumance while minimising its adverse effects.

Broadening the entrepreneurial mindset to meet sustainable goals – Introducing the 4-foci mindset

In the field of entrepreneurship education, the subject matter has changed from a focus on venture creation to one that encourages the development of broader skills and attitudes that prompt students to live in an entrepreneurial way. The emphasis on an ‘entrepreneurial mindset’ (EM) is increasing. However, global issues, such as climate change and the mental health crisis, require a transformation in the way we think and act. Our external environment is increasingly seen as a manifestation of deeply held beliefs, values, attitudes, and perceptions of the world—the inner dimensions of sustainability. Thus, we must reflect on individual values, increase inner capacities, and achieve sustainable life skills prior to creating more sustainable ventures and futures-an overlooked perspective in the current definition of EM. This paper introduces a design perspective and the 4-Foci Mindset, which includes both an outer focus aimed at sustainable value creation and connections with others and with nature, as well as an inward orientation that achieves inner capacities related to ‘being’. The paper presents the implementation and evaluation of the 4-Foci Mindset framework in an educational setting, concentrating on the inner focus as the most radical new perspective in education. The results reveal the clear necessity and value of addressing ‘the inner focus’.

An Evaluation Framework of Industry 4.0’s Impact on SDGs and its Application to AI Reporting

Digital technologies of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) are key drivers of sustainable development. However, addressing the impact of I4.0 on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requires overcoming the challenge of lacking suitable assessment tools. Despite sustainability reporting serves to assess how companies face sustainability challenges, communicate efforts, and promote a sustainable corporate culture, a critical need arises for a comprehensive tool that clarifies the impact of I4.0 technologies on the economic, environmental, and social dimensions of sustainability. This paper proposes a conceptual framework that builds on existing literature regarding how I4.0 technologies contribute to SDGs and leverages the recognized linking between SDGs and Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards to improve the reporting of SDG progress. Thus, the proposed framework identifies the GRI-based Key Performance Indicators necessary for a thorough understanding of how innovation stemming from I4.0, significantly impacts SDGs. Through a content analysis of sustainability reports of innovative companies in the electronic field, the study shows how the proposed framework can be applied in practice. Focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI), the application case allows a comprehensive understanding of the transformative potential of AI solutions towards sustainable development.

Organic Ink Multi-Material 3D Printing of Sustainable Soft Systems.

Drawing inspiration from nature, soft materials are at the core of a transformation toward adaptive and responsive engineered systems, capable of conquering demanding terrain and safe when interacting with biological life. Despite recent advances in 3D printing of soft materials, researchers are still far from being able to print complex soft systems where a multitude of different components need to work together symbiotically. Closing this gap necessitates a platform that unites diverse materials into one synergetic process. Here, a multi-material printing system is presented, combining gelatin-based hydrogels with a new biodegradable support material. This organic ink maintains up to 60° overhang and is printable over gaps to structurally support the main biogel body, while triggered dissolution enables its selective removal and the formation of internal cavities. Therefore, the creation of vascular networks, tunable scaffolds, and embedded sensors within a single printing process becomes feasible. Furthermore, a perforation-resistant, joint-like vacuum actuator (VAc) is designed and 3D printed, capable of bending to angles up to 60° at fast response times down to 0.23 s. Combining these approaches in an efficient, streamlined fabrication process with biodegradable materials will unlock new sustainability dimensions for complex and durable soft systems.

Meat and the future of sustainable diets-Challenges and opportunities.

The British Nutrition Foundation convened a roundtable event in January 2024 entitled 'Meat and the Future of Sustainable Diets: Turning Challenges into Opportunities', bringing together multi-sector stakeholders to discuss the social, nutritional, public health and environmental aspects of meat consumption within a sustainable food system. Participants explored the challenge of the complexity of balancing nutrition and planetary goals, emphasising the need to navigate trade-offs between various dimensions of sustainability. Whilst recognising the global nature of the issue, the roundtable primarily focussed on a UK perspective. The discussion highlighted the urgency of transforming the food system to achieve net zero, whilst ensuring broader environmental benefits, nutritional adequacy and dietary and health equity across all life stages. Concerns about poor dietary patterns, particularly among vulnerable groups were raised, with participants stressing the need for policies that promote healthy, sustainable and equitable diets without worsening inequalities. These policies should also enhance livelihoods and community wellbeing, foster resilience and support local economies. On the supply side, participants called for better data within the agri-food system, particularly at the farm level. They advocated for a multidimensional, holistic approach that goes beyond greenhouse gas emissions to encompass wider environmental impacts and whole-farm benefits, such as enhancing soil health, promoting biodiversity, improving water management, supporting nutrient cycling and boosting farm-level resilience through diversified cropping systems. Roundtable participants acknowledged existing recommendations to reduce meat consumption for both environmental reasons, such as land use and greenhouse gas emissions, and health concerns, as evidence links red, particularly processed, meat consumption with increased colorectal cancer risk. Given the variation in meat consumption globally and even locally between individuals, the discussion explored the potential of targeted campaigns to reduce high meat intake, along with the role of public food procurement and the food industry in decreasing processed meat consumption. The consensus was that dietary changes must be framed within the context of a balanced diet and broader sustainability concerns. Despite some differing viewpoints on implementation, participants agreed that transitioning to healthier, more sustainable diets is a priority. Collaboration across the entire food chain, from farm to fork, with investment in innovation, robust data collection and research, alongside policy support, was emphasised as essential to achieving this goal.

NEW ECONOMETRIC MODEL OF SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT QUANTIFYING THE IMPACT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SDG9 IN THE EUROPEAN CONTEXT

In the context of European integration, sustainable economic development in the European Union is a strategic priority. In recent years, the European Union has made progress towards sustainable development objectives, reflecting a commitment to economic growth that respects the principles of environmental protection, social equity and economic efficiency. The European Union plays an important role in shaping sustainable development policies and initiatives through legislation, directives and financial funds aimed at both protecting the environment and stimulating innovation and competitiveness. We aim to analyse the level of innovative sustainability of the European economy in relation to the European dimension of innovative sustainability using an econometric model. The methods used consist of a literature survey, database consolidation and econometric modelling. The econometric model shows that environmental taxes and raw material consumption have a negative impact on GDP per capita in the short run, while technological innovation, measured by the number of patents and R&D personnel, contributes significantly to economic growth and sustainable development, underlining the need for long-term investment in human capital and green technologies to support the competitiveness and sustainability of European economies. The results of the study will lead to the formulation of European public policies on sustainable economic development regarding the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 9.

The impact of FinTech/Blockchain Adoption on Corporate ESG and DEI Performance

Monitoring a company's efficiency is one of its primary responsibilities. There are many approaches in our contemporary society that either use IT or the conventional technique. Methods for measuring efficiency fall into three primary categories: parametric, nonparametric, and ratio indicators. We prioritize a firm's inputs and outputs when choosing metrics to measure efficiency. Establishing objectives and goals in entrepreneurship necessitates a thorough comprehension, appreciation, and knowledge of sustainability, and assessing the economic growth quality of a corporation is an essential task for theoretical and empirical sustainability assessment. When measuring the efficiency of entrepreneurship in terms of achieving desired values of macroeconomic indicators (e.g., sustainable economic growth objectives), data envelopment analysis (DEA), a widely used technique in efficiency analysis, has taken into account the economic, environmental, and social impact of entrepreneurship as the three dimensions of sustainability. The objective of this paper is to test the influence of FinTech/Blockchain adoption on corporate ESG and DEI performances using a novel DEA approach for sustainable development assessment. It highlights the significance of using a scalable technique for ESG efficiency study and gives scholars a more thorough viewpoint on the subject. In a collection of 50 enterprises, a DEA model was utilized for the analysis. For sustainable performance assessment using the proposed DEA technique, we defined as inputs six financial metrics, and as outputs 11 ESG/Blockchain adoption, and four DEI quality metrics to measure the firm’s efficiency. The annual business data was gathered between 2017 and 2023. In all country situations we discovered that, when DEI initiatives mediate, there is a strong correlation between ESG corporate performance and the quality of economic growth (particularly in the innovation and integrity blockchain adoption performance success metrics). Our study provides additional in-depth details on the FinTech/blockchain adoption environment in comparison to the findings of previous researchers. The sustainable entrepreneurship performance (a latent variable regarded as a dependent target factor) is calculated using eight (8) factors as observed variables, which is the first to consider the dynamics of ESG/BCA and DEI quality metrics as DEA outputs. The study also examines the mediating role of DEI corporate initiatives. By conducting an empirical investigation, the suggested scalable framework makes it evident which company is more efficient in moving toward sustainability, assisting corporate management in increasing the effectiveness of economic growth.

An Assessment Mechanism for Integrated Software Sustainability Evaluation Model via Evaluation Theory

Evaluation of software sustainability aids in decision-maker’s identification of the specific actions needed to guarantee sustainability for current and future generations. The prior approach to assessment focused on how the business environment was changing and using the high-quality software sustainability evaluation model (SSEM) affected those changes. Numerous well-established quality models, concepts, and understandings impacted on SSEM trends. These act as frameworks for developing software evaluations, the outcomes of which are applied to the assessment of generic software procedures. Therefore, this research aimed to use Evaluation Theory (ET) to create an assessment mechanism for an integrated Software Sustainability Evaluation Model (i-SSEM). This model encompasses evaluation criteria, targets, assessment processes, data-gathering techniques, synthesis techniques, and yardsticks. Nine criteria are presented in this study to evaluate software sustainability encompassing functional adequacy, dependability, performance efficiency, usability, security, compatibility, maintainability, portability, and impactibility. The use of the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) methodology, effectively classifies the recommended criteria into sustainable dimensions. A Goal Question Metric (GQM) is used to establish the software criteria by precisely specifying the aim, perspectives, and viewpoints of an evaluation of the sustainability aspects. By highlighting the unique evaluation mechanism for software products and processes and utilizing both quantitative and qualitative measurement techniques, this model improves the current SSEM.

Downscaling EU bioeconomy policy for national implementation

This paper examines how EU bioeconomy strategies are adapted and implemented at the national level, using Ireland as a case study. Through the application of a Narrative Policy Framework, this study analyses how national bioeconomy policy aligns with EU objectives and how such policy addresses institutional capacity, policy coherence, and sustainable development. The findings reveal a significant misalignment between the EU's ambitious bioeconomy targets and the realities of implementation at the national level. It highlights how primary industries are often underrepresented in policy-making processes, yet are expected to meet high innovation standards without evidence of adequate support. The paper highlights gaps in governance mechanisms, partnership models, and sustainability approaches, particularly in addressing the socio-economic dimensions of sustainability. These gaps risk perpetuating existing inequalities and failing to meet sustainability targets. The research provides a critical analysis of the disconnect between EU bioeconomy policy aspirations and national-level implementation, offering insights into the structural barriers that hinder effective policy transposition. The study calls for more tailored policy support, clearer governance frameworks, and deeper engagement with local stakeholders to ensure the bioeconomy transition is both inclusive and sustainable. Future research is recommended to explore cross-national comparisons to improve the adaptability and implementation of bioeconomy policies across the EU.

The synthesis of logistics performance and technological innovation on environmental quality

PurposeThis study aims to examine the impact of logistics performance and technological innovation on environmental quality in Africa, focusing on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and renewable energy consumption as indicators of environmental quality.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a panel data analysis of 43 African countries over the period 1990–2021. Data on logistics performance, technological innovation, CO2 emissions, and renewable energy consumption are sourced from the World Development Indicators database of the World Bank. Grounded in the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) framework, which integrates economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainability, the analysis utilises the generalised method of moments (GMM) technique to address the issue of endogeneity.FindingsThe regression results reveal significant relationships between logistics performance, technological innovation and environmental quality indicators. Logistics performance demonstrates a negative impact on CO2 emissions, while technological innovation positively influences renewable energy consumption. The interactive effect of logistics performance and technological innovation mitigates CO2 emissions, aligning with the TBL framework’s environmental dimension by promoting sustainability. Furthermore, trade openness exhibits a significant negative effect on both CO2 emissions and renewable energy consumption. The findings highlight the potential synergies between logistics performance and technological innovation in driving environmental sustainability while offering economic benefits and addressing social well-being.Practical implicationsThe findings suggest the importance of prioritising investments in enhancing logistics performance and fostering technological innovation to achieve environmental sustainability goals in Africa.Originality/valueTo the best of the researchers’ knowledge, this study presents an initial attempt to examine the nexus between logistics performance and environmental quality in Africa using the logistics performance index. Furthermore, beyond assessing the individual effects of logistics performance and technological innovation on environmental quality, we delve into their interactive dynamics, adding novelty to the study.

LEVERAGING ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE IN ALGERIAN ECONOMIC INSTITUTIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Purpose: The study explored how environmental performance contributes to sustainable development, focusing on its role in achieving key dimensions of sustainability. Theoretical Framework: It emphasized that essential administrative tools for environmental protection are primarily found within the legal and institutional framework, which includes various national bodies established to support sustainable development. These organizations play a significant role in raising awareness, providing training, and emphasizing the importance of adhering to environmental standards through preventive, conservation, and regulatory measures, all backed by legal authority. Additionally, civil society has a crucial role in fostering environmental awareness, particularly within economic institutions. Design/Methodology/Approach: The designof the study is descriptive and analytical. Data for this study were collected from official Algerian sources. Findings: Cleaner Production this approach is a practical implementation of sustainable development, enabling greater efficiency in production while minimizing the use of raw materials and resources, all while protecting the environment.

Exploring Differing Perspectives on Sustainability and Corresponding Strategies in German Automotive Companies

In addition to acute crises dominating the societal discourse, such as the global consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the world continues to face the ongoing challenge of limiting climate change and achieving a sustainable transformation. Yet, in public discourse, the widely used terms “sustainability” and “transformation” are not clearly defined, and the understanding varies greatly depending on the industry and the stakeholders considered. One important transformation arena lies within the German automotive industry, as it is one of the country’s biggest industrial sectors by revenue and the number of employees. In addition, the German automotive industry is currently going through a transition period due to the switch to electric drivetrains as the main propulsion technology opposed to combustion engines. Therefore, the following paper identifies the differing understandings of sustainability and according actions in the German automotive industry. Moreover, possible conflicts and prioritizations along the economic, ecological, and social dimensions of sustainability are presented based on an expert interview study. To do so, a structuring qualitative content analysis in combination with a descriptive approach was used focusing on the differing perspectives on sustainability of both the interviewees and their companies. The gathered data then allows to compare the aggregated individual and corporate sustainability perspectives in the German automotive industry, as well as comparing the sustainability perspectives of the interviewees and their respective companies case by case. The results suggest that there is a considerable discrepancy between individual and corporate understandings of sustainability. These differences can mainly be attributed to the companies’ economically driven views in contrast to the individuals’, mostly ecologically driven sustainability perspective. Moreover, several barriers and conflicts, rooted in the prioritization of economic gains, can be traced back to conflicts in the supplier pyramid. The identification of common transformation goals and measures among companies is necessary to enable a collaborative, sustainable transformation in the German automotive industry, which benefits all societal stakeholders in or attached to this sector.

Resource Efficiency and the Role of Renewable Energy in Miskolc: The City’s Journey Towards Becoming a Smart City

Miskolc, which is the focus of our investigation, is the fourth most populous city in Hungary and the center of one of the most underdeveloped NUTS2 (basic territorial category for the regional policy of the European Union) regions in the European Union. The socialist heavy industry played a decisive role in the development of the city, the decline of which also left deep traces in the city. In its current position, the city tries to manage its available resources as efficiently as possible, and the city management is open to the use of modern urban development tools. This is supported by the fact that Miskolc was the first Hungarian city to join the Green Cities for Sustainable Europe movement in 2011, and then in 2015, it joined the Triangulum project of the EU Smart Cities and Communities program as a follower city. In the process of becoming a smart city, the dimensions of environmental sustainability and energy efficiency were given a prominent role, which should not be surprising considering the traditions of the city. Within this, we must first mention the construction of the geothermal central heating system, with which the city really took significant steps in this field. The main goal of the study is to develop a new smart local concept closely linked to regional development and the key energy sector, through which the local adaptation of the defining elements of the internationally defined smart city in several forms for the city of Miskolc will be presented. In our study, we review how the results achieved by Miskolc so far and the development plans for the future fit in with the smart energy developments of smart cities. Before exploring the processes in Miskolc, we will deal in more detail with the possibilities inherent in district heating and geothermal energy utilization and Hungary’s capabilities.

Socially responsible human resource management for sustainable performance in a moderated mediation mechanism

This study examines Socially Responsible Human Resource Management (SRHRM) for the common good through the connections between the psychological green climate (PGC) and employee green behavior (EGB). In doing so, it explores the influence of SRHRM and PGC on EGB and sustainable performance (SP) as well as the moderating effect of PGC on EGB for organizing sustainable dimensions of HRM for environmental common goods. Drawing on the notion of the common good, this study mobilizes the ability motivation opportunity theory to articulate the nexus of business ethics and the environment. This study is quantitative in nature, following the deducting reason approach. Data were collected from 307 manufacturing companies using a survey. To ensure robustness, structural equation modeling using the AMOS software was used to analyze the data. The study's results show that both SRHRM and PGC directly influence EGB, which proxies to affect the organizational SP precisely. However, the results also show that SRHRM has no significant direct repercussions on SP, and the analysis of the moderation effect revealed that PGC does not intervene in the relationship between SRHRM and EGB. This paper contributes to an interesting conjuncture of growing literature on the adoption and impact of SRHRM and SP, which we argue can become the epicenter of ethical business processes to ensure the common environmental good. This study shows that organizations can flourish sustainable behavioral aspects, values, norms, and practices in business processes and among employees by nurturing the tenets of SRHRM, PGC, and EGB, which will increase the organizational capacity to transform the environmental common good.