Financial Sustainability Research Articles

A Sustainable Future : The Importance and the Development of Sustainable Finance In the 21st Century

The environmental problems that have emerged along with rapidly increasing global warming in recent years have made the concept of sustainability an important issue in the world in general. This fact has been largely effective in increasing the sensitivity of businesses and leading corporations to the environmental problems. This situation has led businesses to implement environmental friendly policies and invest in these areas, both interms of efficient use of natural resources and minimizing the damage to the environment. With the increasing global warming, climate change has recently become one of the most important problems in the world, and many countries have started to make efforts to reduce the risk of climate change. The inadequacy of environemental measures taken so far has necessitated the search for solutions in different areas regarding this issue. In this sense, financial institutions also contribute to climate awareness by following environmental policies in their activities and developing products that prioritize the environment. The concept of sustainable finance has led to the development of various financial products and to the development of financing projects aimed at protecting the environment. While the concept of sustainable finance is perceived as the responsibility of public authorities, the private sector has also been included in the process with the Sustainable Development Goals in the UN 2030 Agenda. There is no doubt that sustainable banking and finance practices, especially the implementation of sustainability practices by banks and other corporations in developing countries will contribute to the development of these countries considerably. In this study, it is aimed to draw attention to the global climate crisis, to emphasize the relationship between finance and the environment, and to contribute to the increase of applications in this field in the world by introducing green financing tools. One of the important functions of sustainable finance against the climate crisis is the evolution of companies funded within the scope of ESG criteria into a production process that tends to be sensitive to carbon emissions, as well as acquiring social and governance sensitivity. In this way, an economic process can be carried out on the axis of environmental and social awareness. In addition to combating climate change, it can be an important supporter in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Sustainable finance, water governance, and water policy objectives in Ontario municipalities

ABSTRACT Sustainable finance is an important part of the water governance landscape that has not received sufficient attention in the water governance and policy literature. In this paper, we approach sustainable finance as a ‘non-water’ factor that influences water governance situations. Two key water policy objectives in Ontario municipalities provide the focus: water system financial sustainability, and industrial water use reduction. We find that sustainable finance as a sector has significant potential to drive future decision-making around water in municipalities in the context of chronic underfunding and the transition to low-carbon economies.

Exploring the feasibility and acceptability of community paramedicine programs in achieving vaccination equity: a qualitative study

BackgroundMobile Integrated Health-Community Paramedicine (MIH-CP) is a novel approach that may reduce the rural-urban disparity in vaccination uptake in the United States. MIH-CP providers, as physician extenders, offer clinical follow-up and wrap-around services in homes and communities, uniquely positioning them as trusted messengers and vaccine providers. This study explores stakeholder perspectives on feasibility and acceptability of community paramedicine vaccination programs.MethodsWe conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with leaders of paramedicine agencies with MIH-CP, without MIH-CP, and state/regional leaders in Indiana. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using content analysis.ResultsWe interviewed 24 individuals who represented EMS organizations with MIH-CP programs (MIH-CP; n = 10), EMS organizations without MIH-CP programs (non-MIH-CP; n = 9), and state/regional administrators (SRA; n = 5). Overall, the sample included professionals with an average of 19.6 years in the field (range: 1–42 years). Approximately 75% (n = 14) were male, and all identified as non-Hispanic white. MIH-CPs reported they initiated a vaccine program to reach underserved areas, operating as a health department extension. Some MIH-CPs integrated existing services, such as food banks, with vaccine clinics, while other MIH-CPs focused on providing vaccinations as standalone initiatives. Key barriers to vaccination program initiation included funding and vaccinations being a low priority for MIH-CP programs. However, participants reported support for vaccine programs, particularly as they provided an opportunity to alleviate health disparities and improve community health. MIH-CPs reported low vaccine hesitancy in the community when community paramedics administered vaccines. Non-CP agencies expressed interest in launching vaccine programs if there is clear guidance, sustainable funding, and adequate personnel.ConclusionsOur study provides important context on the feasibility and acceptability of implementing an MIH-CP program. Findings offer valuable insights into reducing health disparities seen in vaccine uptake through community paramedics, a novel and innovative approach to reduce health disparities in rural communities.

Evaluating the Impact of Sustainable Finance on CSR and Public Awareness: A Study Across India, the UAE, and Oman

This research employs a quantitative method to examine the influence of sustainable financing on corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and public awareness in India, the UAE, and Oman. A set of standardized questionnaires including Likert scale questions was issued to a total of 280 participants working in the financial sector. The purpose of these questionnaires was to assess their level of involvement in sustainable financing, corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, economic development, and their understanding of sustainability in the public domain. Statistical techniques, such as regression as well as moderation analysis, are used. The research seeks to evaluate the effects of sustainable financing on corporate social responsibility (CSR), its impact on public awareness, the function of public awareness as a mediator, and the influence of economic development as a moderator. The results of the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis indicate that there is a strong fit between the model and the data for the relationship between sustainable finance and corporate social responsibility (CSR). The fit indices, including χ2=50.400, df=26, CMIN/DF=1.938, GFI=0.966, RFI=0.948, NFI=0.970, IFI=0.985, CFI=0.985, RMR=0.030, and RMSEA=0.058, all suggest a good fit. Similarly, the analysis also reveals a strong fit between sustainable finance and public awareness, with χ2=42.290, df=25, CMIN/DF=1.692, GFI=0.971, RFI=0.953, NFI=0.974, IFI=0.989, CFI=0.989, RMR=0.029, and RMSEA=0.050. The mediation analysis provides evidence that public knowledge plays a vital role in connecting sustainable finance and corporate social responsibility (p=.000). Nevertheless, the moderation study indicates that there is no substantial moderating of this association by economic growth (interaction path estimate 0.038, p=0.241). The results emphasize the need of implementing policies that support sustainable financing and increase public knowledge to improve corporate social responsibility (CSR) outcomes in the examined areas.

Sustainable development goals, sustainable finance, and financial inclusion: An awareness perspective of business graduates

AbstractThe study aims to inquire about the level of understanding of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Sustainable Finance (SF), and Financial Inclusion (FI) among business graduates. The data were collected through a self‐administered questionnaire from 342 business graduates from different universities in a developing country like Pakistan. The findings revealed that the respondents have a no‐to‐low understanding of SF, FI, and the role or importance of these in achieving the 17 SDGs. The findings suggest major revisions in the structure and contents of different business degrees in Pakistan. Overall, the study opens new avenues for research and provides important insights for all the key stakeholders, including universities, higher education institutions (HEIs), the Higher Education Commission (HEC), students, and parents. The study also has social and practical implications for various stakeholders in the HEIs.

AN ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF BURIAL GROUND WORKERS IN VIRUDHUNAGAR DISTRICT, TAMILNADU

Burial ground workers has covered wide area of the economic analysis and therefore it is not possible to deal in the details of each them in this paper. We have tried to present some of these specific aspects of the total work. This study analyzed the socio economic analysis of burial ground workers in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu. It is different types of burial grounds workers like manuval, gasifier and electric crematorium. Objectives of the study, to examine the characteristics of burial ground workers in Virudhunagar district and to study the burial ground worker income and expenditure pattern in Virudhunagar district. Result of the study, the income, saving, expenditure, and debt levels of crematorium of burial ground workers are influenced by a range of factors. While many workers have moderate income levels and save a significant portion of their income, they also tend to have high expenditure levels and carry some level of debt. Understanding these factors can help workers make informed financial decisions and achieve their financial goals. Finding of the study Challenges, the majority of participants (85%) reported feeling emotionally drained due to the nature of their work, while 70% reported experiencing physical exhaustion. Workload, Many participants (60%) reported feeling overwhelmed by their workload, citing inadequate staffing and inadequate training as contributing factors. Support, Only 30% of participants reported receiving adequate support from their employers or colleagues, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Job Satisfaction, despite the challenges, 70% of participants reported being satisfied with their job, citing a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Suggestions for Improvement, Participants suggested improvements in staffing levels, training programs, and emotional support services. Conclusion of the study, while burial grounds present various economic challenges, they are integral to cultural heritage and societal values. The balanced approach that considers financial sustainability, environmental impact, and cultural significance is essential for the long-term management and preservation of these spaces. The findings suggest that burial ground workers in crematorium settings face significant challenges related to workload, emotional well-being, and support. Despite these challenges, many participants reported feeling satisfied with their job due to the sense of purpose and fulfillment it provides. KEYWORDS: manuval, gasifier, burial grounds workers, economic challenges, financial goals

Security design: A review

Security design, which broadly speaking deals with the issue of designing optimal contractual mechanisms for overcoming various frictions between agents, is the subject of an extensive literature. This paper presents a review of recent work on security design and is organized around the applications of security design in various fields of finance starting with classic corporate finance applications such as capital structure and corporate governance, financial intermediation applications such as securitization and contingent capital, the interaction of market and security design, as well as emerging applications such as fintech, sustainable finance and healthcare finance. Future research is also discussed.

The Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on HIV Prevalence and Treatment Accessibility in Nigeria: A Comprehensive Review

HIV/AIDS remained a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with approximately 1.9 million people living with HIV (PLHIV), making it one of the most affected countries globally. This comprehensive review explored the impact of socioeconomic factors on HIV prevalence and treatment accessibility in Nigeria, focusing on key determinants such as poverty, education, gender inequality, and geographic disparities. Poverty exacerbated the risk of HIV infection by limiting access to prevention resources and creating barriers to treatment, while educational disparities affect awareness and prevention behaviors. Gender inequality, particularly in patriarchal societies, increases women’s vulnerability to HIV due to limited control over sexual health decisions and economic dependence. Geographic disparities, especially between urban and rural areas, contributed to uneven HIV prevalence and treatment access, with rural regions often facing significant healthcare infrastructure challenges. Additionally, the strength of health system infrastructure and funding played a crucial role in shaping the effectiveness of HIV services, with underfunding and reliance on external donors posing significant risks to sustainability. The methodology used in this article involved a review and synthesis of existing literature and data on HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, emphasizing the socioeconomic determinants of the epidemic. Addressing these factors required targeted interventions, such as strengthening social protection programs, enhancing education, promoting gender equality, improving healthcare infrastructure, and ensuring sustainable funding. These efforts were essential for reducing HIV prevalence and improving treatment outcomes in Nigeria. Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Socioeconomic determinants, Nigeria, Healthcare infrastructure, Gender inequality.

Assessing the Impact of Sustainable Finance on Economic Growth: Evidence from India, the UAE, and Oman

The influence of sustainable finance on foreign direct investment (FDI), economic development, financial market stability, and economic stability in India, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman is investigated in this paper using a quantitative methodology. The study intends to evaluate the impact of sustainable finance on these factors via the use of standardized questionnaires that are distributed among participants in the financial industry. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using SPSS and AMOS was used for the investigation, which shows a favorable relationship between sustainable financing and both FDI inflows and economic development. The results show that the model fits the impacts of FDI well (CFI=0.973, RMSEA=0.069) and the effects of economic growth somewhat (CFI=0.946, RMSEA=0.102). Sustainable finance and economic growth are considerably mediated by financial market stability, while the connection between sustainable finance and foreign direct investment (FDI) is significantly moderated by economic stability (interaction path estimate = 0.075, p = 0.035). In order to maximize the advantages of sustainable finance on investment and growth outcomes, the research emphasizes the critical role that financial and economic stability plays.

Fundamental Factors on Stock Price with Sustainability Report as Moderating Variable

This study aims to obtain empirical evidence of the effect of Liquidity, Solvency, and Profitability on Stock Prices with Sustainability Report as a Moderating Variable. The population in this study were mining companies on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. Sampling was done using purposive sampling. The secondary data collection method used is financial reports and sustainability reports. The results showed that Liquidity and Profitability had no effect on Stock Price while Solvency had a negative effect on Stock Price, Sustainability Report did not strengthen Liquidity and Profitability on Stock Price while Sustainability Report strengthened the effect of Solvency on Stock Price.

Pengaruh Sustainability Reporting dan Good Corporate Governance terhadap Financial Performance

This research aims to explore the relationship between sustainability and good corporate governance (GCG) on the financial performance of energy and basic materials sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) from 2020 to 2022. In this research there are 21 companies that have been selected using purposive sampling criteria with a total of 63 data populations studied during the research period. The data used uses secondary data in the form of financial reports and sustainability reports obtained from the official websites of each company as well as on the website www.ojk.co.id. To analyze the data, use descriptive analysis, with classic assumption tests such as data normality tests, multicollinearity, autocorrelation, heteroscedasticity and hypothesis tests such as the simultaneous/f test to the partial/t test with multiple linear regression analysis methods which are used to see the influence of the independent variable sustainability and corporate governance. The research found that there is a positive and significant relationship between sustainability disclosure and company financial performance, either simultaneously or partially. Companies that are more active in disclosing sustainability-related information tend to have better financial performance, as this attracts more attention from stakeholders, including investors and customers. Using stakeholder theory and agency theory approaches, this research investigates how the implementation of sustainability and good corporate governance (GCG) affects company profitability.

University community partnerships for climate change adaptation in Malawi: Exploring contributions, potential opportunities and challenges

Partnerships with local communities have emerged as a prominent educational strategy within university functions, aligning with the ethos of an institution dedicated to community engagement. These partnerships serve not only to empower communities with essential skills to address societal challenges, notably climate change, but also reflect a broader shift in academia towards fostering collaborative relationships with local stakeholders. For students, partnerships offer invaluable hands-on experience by immersing them in direct engagement with community members, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application to enrich their educational learning outcomes. This article explores the multifaceted benefits and contributions of partnerships to sustainable community well-being while addressing the inherent complexities that arise when universities engage with communities in promoting human development. Drawing upon qualitative data obtained from interviews with lecturers, students, and community focus groups involved in climate adaptation initiatives, the study investigates the contributions and potential opportunities presented by partnerships and examines challenges encountered by stakeholders in advancing partnerships interventions. Despite the positive impact of partnerships on community skills and empowerment, I argue that while partnerships are contributing towards sustainable community well-being, coordination, funding, and mindset change remain key issues to be addressed. Further, educational practices and pedagogical approaches should prioritize addressing the multidimensionality of climate change and fostering agency and empowerment among community leaders to actively engage in partnership activities. This includes giving them a voice in the choice of adaptation interventions and inclusion of communities' voices in the monitoring and assessment of partnership interventions. By doing so, partnerships can be more effective in promoting sustainable community well-being and improving students' learning outcomes.

Colonial Project Finance Initiative: to what extent did the UK export its public-private partnership model to Caribbean British Overseas Territories?

ABSTRACT Public–Private Partnerships (PPP) are long-term agreements for procuring public projects that bundle up design, build, finance, operation and management. The UK’s version, Project Finance Initiative, was a policy-based framework, now defunct. Instead, PPPs in Caribbean British Overseas Territories (BOTs) are based on rigid models, with early stopovers focused on ensuring financial sustainability. A comparative analysis among Caribbean BOTs concludes that they show common models, and that those BOTs that need PPPs the most have set up the biggest hurdles to get them started. The analysis comprises four features: legal sources, administrative safeguards, scope restrictions for sector and value, and accountability.

The Burden of Malaria in East Africa: Epidemiology and Health Impact

Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in East Africa, disproportionately affecting the region due to diverse ecological conditions, socioeconomic factors, and variable healthcare infrastructure. This review provides an overview of the epidemiological landscape and health impact of malaria in East African countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Ethiopia. The prevalence and distribution of malaria vary widely, with high transmission rates in specific regions and vulnerable groups, particularly children under five and pregnant women. The disease’s health impacts are profound, contributing to high morbidity and mortality, economic loss, and educational deficits, while placing a substantial burden on healthcare systems. Despite progress in malaria control efforts, challenges such as drug resistance, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and the need for sustained funding persist. The methodology for this review involved a comprehensive analysis of existing literature and epidemiological data on malaria in East Africa. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that includes improved surveillance, targeted interventions, and community engagement to reduce the burden of malaria and improve health outcomes in the region. Keywords: Malaria Epidemiology, East Africa, Health Impact, Socioeconomic Burden, Malaria Control Strategies.

Research on the Impact of Environmental Information Disclosure on Financial Performance

In the current global context of escalating environmental concerns, it has become increasingly crucial for enterprises to disclose environmental information in order to effectively communicate their environmental performance and risk management with external stakeholders. This is particularly pertinent for publicly traded companies in heavily polluting industries, as the disclosure of environmental information not only impacts corporate reputation and image, but also directly affects their financial sustainability. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the influence of environmental information disclosure on the financial performance of publicly traded companies in heavily polluting industries, while also examining how property rights moderate this relationship. Drawing from previous research, this paper presents corresponding research hypotheses and constructs a comprehensive research model. The empirical analysis serves as the primary research method, allowing for an in-depth exploration of sample data to uncover the intricate connection between environmental information disclosure and financial performance within heavily polluting industries, as well as how property rights factor into this dynamic. Ultimately, this study contributes to enhancing our theoretical understanding of the link between environmental information disclosure and corporate financial performance, providing a scientific basis for government policy formulation and offering practical guidance for listed companies in heavily polluting industries seeking to improve both their financial sustainability and environmental performance.

Breast cancer survivorship among younger patients: challenges and opportunities-narrative review.

Young women with breast cancer (YWBC) face unique survivorship challenges due to being diagnosed at a more vulnerable stage in life and receiving gonadotoxic and/or antiestrogen therapy during their reproductive years. The purpose of this article is to elaborate on these challenges and demonstrate how specialized supportive care programs tailored specifically for YWBC, can greatly facilitate the provision of interventions to address these challenges. The databases used were PubMed and Medline. Articles included those that involve young women with breast cancer and survivorship care needs. Compared to older breast cancer patients, YWBC generally require more aggressive treatments and are more likely to have a hereditary basis for their disease. Common challenges include childbearing concerns, premature menopause, body image issues, excessive fear of cancer recurrence, difficulties with intimate relationships, and financial toxicity. A possible solution to addressing these needs are longitudinal care in a specialized supportive care program, such as the PYNK Program for Young Women with Breast Cancer in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Examples of such interventions include fast-tracking fertility preservation, aggressive management of symptoms of iatrogenic menopause, peer support groups, as well as individualized psycho-social support for the patient and her family. By addressing the unique needs of this population, supportive care programs can play a crucial role in empowering young women with breast cancer to cope with the physical, emotional, and practical challenges they may face during and after treatment. The limitation lies in resource availability and funding for sustainability. Ongoing research is required to better understand the needs of YWBC patients in survivorship and ensure the sustainability of programs designed to address these challenges.

Fundamental Principles Of Health Management: Integrated Strategies For Efficiency, Quality, And Sustainability In Healthcare

This academic essay addresses healthcare management as an essential and dynamic field encompassing administrative and clinical practices to ensure efficiency, quality, and sustainability in healthcare services. Beyond mere administration, healthcare management faces contemporary challenges such as an aging population and increasing chronic diseases, necessitating agile adaptations and technological innovations. Key principles of effective healthcare management include operational efficiency, ensuring optimization of human and financial resources, and quality of care, promoting safe and personalized healthcare delivery. Financial sustainability is crucial for ensuring service continuity, while innovation and technology play pivotal roles in continuous care improvement and response to public health emergencies. Risk management is also discussed as fundamental to safeguarding patient safety and healthcare institution reputation, involving regulatory compliance and cybersecurity measures. In conclusion, the strategic integration of these principles enhances not only institutions' crisis responsiveness but also fosters a patient-centered and sustainable care environment in the long term.

DOES ESG INVESTMENT IMPACT THE FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY OF NIGERIAN ENERGY COMPANIES: A PANEL REGRESSION APPROACH?

The destruction of around 5% to 10% of Nigerian mangrove ecosystems and the disappearance of approximately 7,400 square kilometres of rainforest have shifted managerial priorities in Nigeria's energy sector from purely financial gain to increased social responsibility. The rising concerns regarding climate change, environmental risks, social well-being, and sustainability have propelled ESG investment to the forefront of corporate sustainability considerations. The study delves into the influence of ESG investment on the financial sustainability of listed industry players in Nigeria's oil and gas industry. By utilizing quantitative data from sustainability and corporate annual reports of listed firms on the Nigeria Exchange Group from 2013 to 2023, a fixed pooled panel regression model was conducted to statistically test the three hypotheses anchored on the ESG nexus on financial sustainability. The findings indicate that the relationship between environmental investments, measured by environmental emissions, and return on assets (ROA) for the examined listed entities is insignificant. However, the research establishes a notable correlation between social investing practices, quantified by workforce size, and ROA, displaying a positive coefficient. Moreover, the study does not confirm a substantial impact of governance investing practices, measured by board size, on the ROA of the scrutinized corporations. The research acknowledged the impact of ESG on the financial sustainability of Nigeria’s energy sector. The research recommendations include integrating ESG factors into investment strategies, enhancing disclosure and transparency, improving risk management and resilience measures, and collaborating with policymakers.

Nun of the river: The material and spiritual economies of small hydropower in rural Tanzania

This article examines the significance of hydroelectric mini-grids owned and operated by Catholic sisterhoods in rural Tanzania, situating them within a broader context of energy transition and environmental justice. The Tanzanian state is betting that mini-grids can effectively supplement the national grid’s limited reach; since 2010 it has invested considerable effort in developing a regulatory framework that streamlines licensing procedures and specifies feed-in tariffs. Today, the field is wide open and a range of ownership models – community, private, state-owned – are unfolding on the ground with variable results regarding their financial sustainability, environmental impact, and developmental outcomes. Though often overlooked in this discourse, missions, churches, abbeys, and convents have a history of operating run-of-the-river power stations and other off-grid systems that stretches back into the colonial era. Such infrastructures anchor material and spiritual economies of rain, care, and cash that straddle both community and commercially oriented modes of provisioning. Their continued presence suggests that in some ways this new paradigm of decentralized energy provision builds upon long-standing historical logics of patronage and political authority in marginal areas.

Climate-resilience Readiness of Emerging Clean Energy Technologies for India’s Energy Transition: A Deep Dive into Select Technologies

Abstract Sustainability and decarbonization need to be a central component of economic development in the backdrop of climate change, mandates and stakeholder pressures. Climate-resilient infrastructure can significantly contribute to this sustainable and clean development. As energy lies at the heart of decarbonization, this study focuses on one of the critical infrastructures, power sector, and examines the climate-resilience readiness of select clean technologies in light of India’s decarbonization challenge. Battery Energy Storage System (BESS); offshore wind and green hydrogen are studied based on secondary data, incorporating an exploratory and descriptive research design, while using the logic of deduction. Research sets out the barriers faced by India’s power sector in climate-resiliency transition, identifies indicators for measuring climate-resilience and assesses select technologies for their climate-resilience readiness for India’s energy transition. Barriers fall under 5 key categories – technical, monetary, governance, data and social. Indicators for resilience measurement encompass themes of reliability, robustness and resourcefulness. Resilience assessment reveals that BESS, offshore wind and green hydrogen are climate-resilient technologies, albeit, not without gaps which demand policy interventions. Although climate-resilience readiness of clean energy technologies will be of significance, 4 levers of energy transition will hold equal value – policy and regulations, technology, sustainable financing and ESG considerations.