Sustainability Awareness Research Articles

Societal acceptance and environmental impact of sustainable diets: A comparative study of vegetarian, vegan, and flexitarian diets with similar transportation distances

The study examines the acceptance and sustainability of vegetarian, vegan, and flexitarian diets, focusing on the health and environmental benefits of reducing animal-derived proteins. Our objective was to investigate the level of acceptance of these dietary trends across different age groups and health statuses and understand how sustainability awareness and health consciousness impact dietary decisions. We used a mixed-method approach to achieve this, conducting eight in-depth interviews and a survey with 329 participants from various demographic backgrounds. Our qualitative analysis revealed that individual and family health consciousness, along with sustainability considerations, play a significant role in dietary choices, particularly among younger generations who are more open to sustainable eating. Quantitative results show that access to information and educational resources strongly influences dietary decisions, further supporting the spread of environmentally conscious eating habits. The practical significance of our research lies in highlighting the importance of educational campaigns and public health policies that can foster broader societal acceptance of sustainable diets. Educational institutions and community organizations can help facilitate the transfer of knowledge necessary for adopting such diets. Our findings emphasize the role of targeted communication strategies in increasing awareness of the benefits of plant-based diets. Furthermore, these insights underline the potential of policy interventions to make sustainable food choices more accessible and appealing to a wider population. Future research could focus on exploring economic incentives and examining long-term health and environmental outcomes associated with these diets.

Environmental Education and Green Marketing as Mechanisms for Sustainable Awareness

Objective: The objective of the research was to investigate the performance of environmental education and green marketing as mechanisms of sustainable awareness, seeking to understand their interrelation and impact on the promotion of responsible practices on the part of consumers. Methodology: The research used a qualitative approach, characterized as exploratory and descriptive. The sample was composed of 25 marketing managers from companies that apply green marketing strategies. The data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using the technique of discourse analysis. Results and Analysis: The results revealed that environmental education is key to empowering consumers to make informed and informed decisions. Green marketing, in turn, has proven to be an effective strategy for communicating sustainable actions, underlining the importance of transparency and authenticity in building consumer confidence. In addition, the analysis highlighted that the integration between environmental education and green marketing is crucial as it allows businesses and consumers to become allies in promoting a culture of sustainability. The research also indicated that the ongoing commitment of companies to sustainable practices is essential for the effectiveness of these initiatives. Conclusion: In conclusion, the research showed that, for green marketing and environmental education to be effective, a continuous commitment of companies to adopt sustainable practices in a structured and strategic manner is necessary. The integration of these approaches promotes a sustainable awareness that benefits both organizations and society, reinforcing the importance of collaborative actions in search of a more balanced and responsible future in relation to the environment.

Sustainability Education Design and Environmental Awareness in Madrasah Education within the framework of Islamic Education Management

Islamic education management has an important role in the progress of the Madrasah as a place to educate students to have awareness of sustainable life and environmental awareness. One of the efforts is to build an integrated management framework in Madrasah education. This article focuses on explaining the educational steps. Sustainability and environmental awareness, as well as the role of Islamic education management in supporting the effectiveness of achieving Sustainable Education. This research uses a literature or library research method, with the direction of critically reviewing or reviewing knowledge, ideas, or findings contained in the academic-oriented literature, to formulate theoretical and methodological contributions related to the practice of sustainability and environmental awareness in education in Madrasahs within the framework of Islamic education management. The results of the study show that; 1) the concept of education sustainability and environmental awareness include economic, environmental, and social aspects where in the framework of Islamic education, being responsible for nature and the environment is not only a contemporary need but also part of religious teachings so that humans can become caliphs (caretakers) on earth; 2) steps for sustainability education and environmental awareness through an effective educational approach and active participation of students to produce positive behavior and attitudes in everyday life; and 3) the framework of Islamic Education management ineducationsustainability and environmental awareness are focused on development of leadership character based on Islamic values to have a social impact to prepare students to become ethical leaders in the global community. The findings of the study indicate that education in Madrasah is a strategic vehicle for educating and training awareness of sustainable living and environmental awareness integrated into Islamic values.

Green Accounting for Medium-Sized Enterprises: A Review of Participatory Action Research Towards A Sustainable Future

The growth of medium-sized companies in the last decade has had a significant impact on the environment, especially in Indonesia’s major cities. This research aims to develop an environmental reporting model (green accounting) that is suitable for medium-scale companies. Using a participatory action research (PAR) approach, the research involved stakeholders such as entrepreneurs, government, academics, and environmental activists in formulating this reporting model. The study was conducted in Makassar City with 140 medium-scale companies as respondents. Data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, and observations, followed by focus group discussions (FGDs) to develop the reporting model. The results show that sustainability awareness is quite high, but the implementation of environmentally friendly practices is still limited due to the lack of technical knowledge, resources, and multi-stakeholder involvement, especially from the government. The FGDs formulated three main indicators of environmental reporting: water, energy and waste. This research offers an original contribution by developing an environmental reporting model specifically designed for medium-sized enterprises in developing countries. The reporting model developed in this study can be applied to medium-sized enterprises not only in Indonesia, but also in other countries. Theoretically, the results of this study provide theoretical support for the need for a more in-depth study of sustainability issues in medium-sized companies. However, this study has a weakness in that the research respondents are only half of the population of medium-sized companies in Makassar City, Indonesia.

THE EFFECT OF EARTHQUAKE KNOWLEDGE AND RİSK PERCEPTİON ON SOCİAL SUSTAİNABLE EARTHQUAKE AWARENESS

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between participants' earthquake risk perception and knowledge level and sustainable earthquake awareness in terms of various variables. The study is descriptive cross-sectional research. 559 volunteer individuals participated in the study. Relationships between quantitative variables were determined with Pearson correlation analysis. Our research found that there is a significant difference between gender and earthquake risk perception. It has been determined that my disaster experience has an impact on the level of earthquake knowledge. Women were found to have lower earthquake knowledge scores than men. Women were found to have higher earthquake risk perception scores than men. Single people had higher cognitive earthquake risk perception scores than married people. It was found that the earthquake risk perception scores of the disaster survivors were higher than those of the non-survivors. More comprehensive studies may be needed to understand the interaction of factors such as gender, marital status, and disaster experience on earthquake knowledge level and risk perception. These studies can contribute to the development of more effective education and awareness strategies for the general earthquake preparedness of society.

ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTIONS OF INDIAN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: A FRAMEWORK OF INDIVIDUAL, CONTEXTUAL, AND EDUCATIONAL FACTORS

This study explores how universities in India can cultivate entrepreneurial potential among students, driving both innovation and economic growth. By developing a detailed framework, the research dives into the personal, contextual, and educational factors that inspire students' entrepreneurial intentions. It identifies self-efficacy, social networks, and structured entrepreneurship education as critical motivators, shedding light on how these elements collectively influence a student’s journey toward entrepreneurship. Using a thematic approach, the study pieces together insights from the literature, revealing that tailored educational programs, dedicated university support, and awareness of sustainability play powerful roles in equipping students with the skills and mindset needed for success. Social and cultural capital also stand out as key forces, creating support networks that can either fuel or dampen entrepreneurial ambitions. While the framework provides a valuable roadmap, it also highlights the need to adapt educational strategies to diverse cultural contexts, suggesting areas for future exploration. This work aims to inform educational practices and policies, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through this integrated approach, the study offers new perspectives on how institutions can inspire and support the next generation of entrepreneurs, using education, social capital, and institutional resources as essential building blocks.

TEACHERS PERCEPTION OF INTEGRATING SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH CLIL AT THE PRIMARY LEVEL ENGLISH LANGUAGE CLASSROOMS IN BANGLADESH

Being one of the signatories of the United Nations (2015) Sustainable Development Goals, Bangladesh is committed to achieving the goals which is also the demand of time in this 21st century. To attain sustainability for a habitable future, teaching sustainability is a mustthat is possible to achieve in the English language classroom.The research paper aims to find teachers perceptions of ensuring teaching sustainability in the English language classroom at the primary level of education in Bangladesh. It analyses the contents of the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) approved English textbook of Class-V to see how many of them align with the criteria of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). It also tries to identify the pedagogy of English language teaching at the primary level from the teachers perspectives so that the researchers can also comprehend their perceptions of students current learning outcomes. The study grounded on the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) approach is mixed method research that is descriptive in type. Content analysis, surveys, and interviews of teachers are done to collect the data. The research involves 4 primary school teachers in Bangladesh to understand their perception of teaching sustainability and students sustainability awareness along with their language skills. In this research, the purposive sampling of non-probability sampling has been used. The study finds teachers positive approach to ensuring teaching sustainability following the existing textbook. However, their mixed perception is uncovered about integrating CLILfor building an advantageous situation for both teachers and students to result in order toachievesustainable goals and prepare students better for the future.

ESG Rating and Firm Value in Emerging Market: Investigating the Mediating Role of Financial Performance

This study examines the impact of ESG Rating on Firm Value, with Financial Performance as a mediating variable, using a sample of companies included in the IDX ESG Leaders index for the years 2021–2023. The analysis was conducted using PROCESS Macro and bootstrapping methods to identify the direct and indirect effects of ESG practices on Firm Value. The findings reveal that ESG Rating does not have a direct effect on Firm Value, nor does Financial Performance mediate this relationship. These results suggest that in emerging markets like Indonesia, the direct financial benefits of ESG practices are not fully recognized by investors, possibly due to a lower level of awareness and appreciation of sustainability. This study offers insights into the challenges and opportunities for ESG implementation among companies in emerging markets to enhance long-term firm value.

Drivers of green consumption: Ethical ideologies and corporate social responsibility in sustainability awareness

Drivers of green consumption: Ethical ideologies and corporate social responsibility in sustainability awareness

“Towards the Connection Between Humans and Nature”: A Critique of the Myths of Stone Castles in Ecocritical Contexts

This paper explores the complex relationship between the myths surrounding stone castles and ecological dimensions in Thailand, focusing on Northeastern Thailand. Stone castles are historical and artistic symbols and representations of the deep connection between humans and their natural environment. These myths, rooted in folklore, convey community histories and cultural identities, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of past civilizations. The storytelling related to stone castles emphasizes sustainable practices and respect for natural resources, fostering a sense of unity and pride within communities. Using an ecocritical lens, this study examines the significance of these stone monuments beyond their artistic value, revealing the sustainable practices and environmental awareness of ancient peoples. By analyzing these myths, we gain insight into the values and beliefs that shaped human interactions with nature throughout history. The myths illustrate a legacy of ecological respect and balanced coexistence with the environment, offering crucial lessons for contemporary society on the importance of environmental conservation and cultural preservation. Ultimately, this critique highlights the need to appreciate and understand the ongoing relationship between humans and nature, as reflected in the myths of stone castles.

Building Sustainable Minds: The Role of ESD Integration in Ninth-Grade on Environmental Issues

Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is an integral part of achieving the three pillars of human development: social development, economic growth, and environmental preservation. ESD is a global initiative that encompasses broader issues than those addressed solely by the Indonesian Government a collective responsibility to foster ESD as a fundamental value for current and future generations. This study employed a descriptive research method, using a sustainability awareness questionnaire adapted from Hassan et al. The study aimed to comprehensively assess sustainability awareness among 53 ninth-grade students at SMPN 17 Medan. The primary objective was to outline and categorize the profile of sustainability awareness, focusing on emotional, behavioral, and practical dimensions, while also examining gender differences. Data were systematically analyzed using a Likert scale and validated instruments, aligned with sustainability awareness indicators. The results indicated a high level of sustainability awareness, with emotional awarenessat 89.6%, followed by behavioral and attitude awareness at 82.1%. However, practical awareness was at 66.4%, indicating a potential area for improvement. Female students demonstrated higher awareness (85.7%) compared to male students (73.0%). These findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions to enhance practical sustainability awareness and ensure equitable participation among all students.

Development of a Sustainability Awareness Tool for High School Biology Students

In the context of classroom-based learning, the majority of students tend to acquire cognitive knowledge. It is essential for students to not only acquire cognitive knowledge but also develop awareness of sustainability as a result of teaching and learning activities. The purpose of this study was to develop an instrument to measure sustainability awareness among high school students. Developing an instrument of sustainability awareness for students is important to measure and encourage their understanding and actions in preserving the environment sustainably. The instrument developed consists of three subdimensions: economy, society, and environment. This instrument assesses awareness of the concept of sustainable development and practices, attitudes, and moral values ​​for sustainability at the individual level. This study used the Rasch modeling analysis technique. The instrument is a closed questionnaire containing 21 items using a 4-point Likert scale. The results of the Rasch modeling showed that the overall Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient was in the "good" category, while the item reliability coefficient was in the "very good" category. However, the student reliability coefficient was in the "weak" category. The results of the instrument validity test showed four invalid items. These items showed ZSTD and Pt Mean Corr values ​​that did not meet the established criteria. However, the existence of invalid instrument items and weak student reliability coefficients did not affect the overall quality of the instrument. Therefore, it can be concluded that the developed instrument is considered appropriate for measuring the sustainability awareness profile of students.

SUSTAINABLE SOURCING: A STUDY ON THE IMPACT OF SUSTAINABLE SOURCING PRACTICES ON FIRM PERFORMANCE AND STAKEHOLDER SATISFACTION

<p>This study investigates the impact of sustainable sourcing practices on firm performance and stakeholder satisfaction across various industries. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 500 firms through a structured survey questionnaire. The findings reveal that sustainable sourcing practices lead to a significant positive impact on firm performance, with an average 15% increase in profitability and 20% improvement in stakeholder satisfaction scores. The regression analysis shows a strong correlation (<em>r</em> = 0.45, <em>p</em> < 0.001) between sustainable sourcing and enhanced firm outcomes. The study identifies firm size, industry type, and sustainability awareness as critical factors influencing the adoption of sustainable practices. Recommendations include integrating sustainability into procurement processes to enhance long-term performance. Future research should explore the longitudinal effects of these practices across different market conditions.<strong></strong></p>

Environment in Industry 4.0: Applicability of Biotechnology as a Tool for Sustainability and Innovation

Objective: The objective of this research was to analyze the applicability of biotechnology as a tool for sustainability and innovation in industry 4.0. Methodology: The methodology adopted consisted of a bibliographic survey carried out on academic platforms such as SciELO, Scopus and Google Scholar, in addition to Brazilian repositories such as CAPES and BDTD. The research included skimming and an analysis of selected materials, addressing both conceptual and practical aspects of biotechnology in industry. Results and data analysis: The results revealed the evolution of the relationship between human beings and the environment, highlighting the growing awareness of sustainability and the importance of urgent actions. Industry 4.0, in turn, represents the integration of advanced technologies that transform factories into connected and efficient environments, focusing on automation, big data and personalization. Biotechnology has proven essential, using living organisms to develop sustainable products and processes, with significant advances in the areas of health, agriculture and environmental preservation. The intersection between biotechnology and Industry 4.0 allows for the implementation of more sustainable agricultural practices, personalized medical treatments, biofuel production and bioremediation, although it also raises ethical and safety concerns. The conclusion highlights that biotechnology plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability and innovation, offering solutions that optimize processes and reduce environmental impacts. However, challenges such as regulations and ethical issues need to be addressed. Collaboration between governments, industries and research institutions is vital to maximize the benefits and ensure a safe and responsible application of these technologies, thus being able to positively influence the future of the industry towards a more sustainable and efficient production model. Final considerations: In conclusion, the research revealed that the intersection between biotechnology and Industry 4.0 is fundamental to promoting sustainability and innovation. Biotechnology offers sustainable solutions in areas such as healthcare, agriculture and environmental preservation, while Industry 4.0 enables optimization and efficiency through digitalization and automation. However, ethical and regulatory challenges must be addressed. Collaboration between governments, industries and research institutions is crucial to ensure the safe and responsible application of these technologies, shaping a more sustainable and efficient industrial future.

Implementasi Konsep Perikanan Tangkap dalam Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Pesisir Oesapa di Kota Kupang

The aim of this research is to determine the government's efforts to economically empower the fishing community in the Oesapa fishing village, Kupang City and determine the impact of the assistance provided by the government on community welfare. This research uses a qualitative descriptive approach. Data collection used was interviews, observation and documentation. The results of the research show that the government's efforts to empower the fishing community's economy are by optimizing fishing facilities and infrastructure that are not yet fully distributed among fishermen, improving the quality of fishermen's human resources through socialization to help the community increase community awareness of ocean sustainability, and finally utilizing marine resources and fisheries which have a positive impact on the welfare of both fishermen.

Waste-to-energy: exploring the roadmap for energy generation from commercial waste in South Africa

Purpose This study aims to investigate the adoption of waste-to-energy (WtE) technologies in South Africa (SA), focusing on identifying the key drivers, barriers and potential solutions for commercial uptake. The ultimate aim is to propose an implementation framework that promotes renewable energy while reducing landfill reliance. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review (SLR) of papers published between 2020 and 2023 was conducted to identify factors impacting WtE adoption in SA. The conceptual model developed from the SLR was tested using a qualitative case study approach. Data was collected through 15 semi-structured interviews with commercial entities and WtE experts from four regions of SA. Findings Anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis are identified as the most suitable waste-to-energy technologies in the South African context. Among the financial challenges of WtE in SA, the availability of cheap coal, low landfill tariffs, high capital costs, funding constraints and regressive economic incentives are critical. The lack of government support, insufficient incentives, regulatory burdens, weak policies and limited innovation capacity are considerable non-financial barriers hindering WtE technologies’ growth. The successful adoption of renewable energy also requires adequate infrastructure, increased sustainability awareness and technical expertise. Research limitations/implications Although the sample size is diverse and consists of a range of organisations, it may not capture the thoughts and experiences of other SA businesses in their entirety. It is important to note that the lack of existing research on the implementation, benefits and impacts of WtE technologies limits the authors’ ability to interpret and benchmark the findings of this study. Yet, this study contributes by developing an implementation framework to encourage WtE adoption, recommending policy actions such as regressive taxation on fossil fuels and landfills and promoting renewable energy through subsidies, awareness and energy credits. Practical implications This study provides a practical framework for businesses and policymakers to adopt WtE technologies by addressing key barriers. The research suggests that businesses could reduce waste management costs and generate new revenue streams by adopting anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis. Policymakers are encouraged to disincentivize landfills and promote WtE through financial incentives such as subsidies and energy credits. The implementation framework offers clear recommendations for integrating WtE into SA’s energy and waste management strategies, supporting both sustainability and economic goals. Social implications The main social contribution is the potential for WtE adoption to improve waste management practices and generate new job opportunities within the renewable energy and waste sectors. Originality/value This study provides a novel contribution by developing an implementation framework tailored to SA’s unique regulatory, economic and social contexts. The research highlights the importance of aligning WtE adoption with sustainability goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy. The framework serves as a practical guide for policymakers, businesses and industry leaders seeking to implement sustainable waste management solutions in SA.

Exploring the challenges and opportunities for sustainability reporting adoption among small and medium enterprises: A case in a developing country in Asia

Sustainability has turned into a critical focus for businesses, drawing considerable interest from the commercial sector and scholarly environments. While empirical investigations have been conducted regarding sustainability reporting within small and medium enterprises, only a limited number of companies are subjected to increased pressure to adopt sustainability reporting practices, thereby ensuring enhanced transparency and disclosure in their financial and sustainability disclosures. This research, framed by Institutional Theory, delves into how challenges in sustainability reporting obstruct organizations from properly evaluating and sharing their progress on sustainability aims. With an explanatory research framework in place, we circulated survey questionnaires to 400 participants, who were randomly drawn from a population of 28,927 registered SMEs in Metro Manila, Philippines. The application of Interpretative Structural Modelling and MICMAC Analysis revealed that the absence of regulatory frameworks, governmental assistance, and sustainability infrastructure constitutes the most critical obstacles impacting other determinants. In contrast, neither the deficiency in sustainability awareness nor the inadequacy of training and skills demonstrated a considerable impact on the other identified barriers. This study clarifies the complex interactions and interrelations among the obstacles to sustainability reporting, thus providing significant perspectives for organizations aiming to overcome these difficulties. The findings suggest that business leaders and stakeholders can formulate targeted strategies and interventions to facilitate the adoption of sustainability reporting practices within organizations. The application of the institutional theory framework highlights that pressures arise from a diverse array of institutional actors, including regulators, customers, and local communities, which collectively shape corporate behavior and reporting methodologies.

Exploring Recent Advances in Lignocellulosic Biomass Waste Delignification Through the Combined Use of Eutectic Solvents and Intensification Techniques

Growing awareness of resource sustainability and waste management has driven the search for circular-economy solutions. Lignocellulosic biomass waste, the most abundant renewable carbon resource, offers green potential as an alternative to declining non-renewable fuels. However, due to its recalcitrant nature, it requires pre-processing to convert it into valuable products like energy and chemicals. Biorefineries play a key role in this process by promoting the integral use of biomass, by finding ways to utilize lignin, previously treated as waste. Common pretreatment methods are unsustainable, prompting research into eco-friendly solvents and advanced techniques like ultrasound- and microwave-assisted methods. Recent approaches have also explored the use of eutectic solvents, which, when combined with these intensification techniques, offer promising results. These green technologies improve delignification efficiency, which in turn improves the saccharification process, reduces solvent use, and minimizes environmental impact. Despite progress, challenges remain in making these methods economically viable and adaptable to diverse biomass types. This review article highlights recent advances in sustainable treatment technologies, including the combined use of eutectic solvents and process-intensification techniques, and the potential of the obtained lignin in various industrial applications. It also discusses future prospects for more environmentally friendly processes in biomass utilization.

Applying the theory of planned behavior to examine the customer behavior towards craft bakery products: evidence from Hungary

Despite the growing consumer interest in local and artisanal foods over the past decades, there have still been few empirical studies on consumer behavior toward crafted food. This study aims to be the first to investigate consumer behavior towards craft bakery products by using the Theory of Planned Behavior model. Data were collected in Hungary, the sample of 418 respondents was weighted by gender and age group to ensure representativeness. Covariance-based structural equation modeling was used as the data analyzing method. The results showed that positive consumer attitudes and the effects of perceived behavioral control explained consumer intention and behavior towards craft bakery products well, but the influence of the consumer’s environment was not confirmed. Based on the results, the main activities proposed to the stakeholders of craft bakery products are those that highlight the availability and affordability of craft bakery products, while raising awareness of sustainability and health aspects. It is worth organizing festivals and events where the consumption of artisan baked goods is combined with pleasant stimuli and aromas. The results of the study provide a good starting point for further research, in which adding more factors to the model would increase its explanatory power.

An Overview of Malaysia’s Retail Organic Foods Market and Its Consumption Behavior

Growing global awareness of health and environmental sustainability has significantly increased the demand for organic foods, a trend gaining traction in Malaysia. This research provides a comprehensive overview of consumer consumption patterns and purchase intentions for organic foods in Malaysia’s retail sector, identifying key factors influencing their choices. The study examines Malaysia’s broader food retail landscape, focusing on the growing organic segment and its evolving consumption patterns. It also explores the organic food market, considering domestic production and the availability of imported goods that shape consumer choices and market growth. The study offers practical insights into consumer decision-making within the retail food market by examining consumption behavior, such as purchase intentions. The review uncovers critical insights into the organic food market, including its size, rising demand and consumption trends, government and retailer initiatives, and the demographic profiles of consumers who purchase or intend to purchase organic foods. These findings contribute to existing research on organic food consumption in Malaysia and provide valuable guidance for policymakers, government agencies, and retailers aiming to enhance the adoption of organic foods in the Malaysian retail sector.