Energies

Research

Jump to: Review

18 pages, 8710 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategy for the Siting of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations for Parcel Delivery Service Providers

by Marcin Jacek Kłos and Grzegorz Sierpiński

Energies 2023, 16(6), 2553; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16062553 - 08 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1371

Abstract

The development of urban logistics is closely related to the inhabitants of specific areas. People are changing their shopping habits, hence the growing share of online shopping. The consequence of the foregoing is increased demand for parcel delivery to customers’ addresses as well [...] Read more.

The development of urban logistics is closely related to the inhabitants of specific areas. People are changing their shopping habits, hence the growing share of online shopping. The consequence of the foregoing is increased demand for parcel delivery to customers’ addresses as well as in-store and automated pick-up points. This has increased the number of couriers that provide parcel delivery services. To achieve sustainable development, there is a real need to convert conventional combustion engine fleets using greener solutions such as electric vehicles. However, introducing such vehicles on a large scale involves constraints such as the vehicle running range on a single charge, the price of a new fleet and of its maintenance, and the location of charging stations. This article focuses on the strategies for siting of charging stations intended to be used by the providers of parcel delivery services. Different strategies as well as a method for identifying optimal goal-specific locations have been proposed. The results show the limitations and challenges facing both the operators of parcel delivery services and local authorities that should also be involved in the development of charging points. Additionally, based on the method presented in the paper, operators can choose between different strategies depending on the particular requirements and local conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 3399 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Analysis of Dynamic Correlations among Oil, Natural Gas and Ethanol Markets: New Evidence from the Pre- and Post-COVID-19 Crisis

by Derick Quintino, Cristiane Ogino, Inzamam Ul Haq, Paulo Ferreira and Márcia Oliveira

Energies 2023, 16(5), 2349; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16052349 - 28 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1544

Abstract

After the economic shock caused by COVID-19, with relevant effects on both the supply and demand for energy assets, there was greater interest in understanding the relationships between key energy prices. In order to contribute to a deeper understanding of energy price relationships, [...] Read more.

After the economic shock caused by COVID-19, with relevant effects on both the supply and demand for energy assets, there was greater interest in understanding the relationships between key energy prices. In order to contribute to a deeper understanding of energy price relationships, this paper analyzes the dynamics between the weekly spot prices of oil, natural gas and benchmark ethanol in the US markets. The analysis period started on 23 June 2006 and ended on 10 June 2022. This study used the DMCA cross-correlation coefficient in a dynamic way, using sliding windows. Among the main results, it was found that: (i) in the post-pandemic period, oil and natural gas were not correlated, in both short- and long-term timescales; and (ii) ethanol was negatively associated with natural gas in the most recent post-pandemic period, especially in short-term scales. The results of the present study are potentially relevant for both market and public agents regarding investment diversification strategies and can aid public policies due to the understanding of the interrelationship between energy prices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 2457 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

An Evaluation on Sectoral Competitiveness of Guangdong in China: The Role of Carbon Taxation Policy

by Beibei Cheng, Peng Wang and Songyan Ren

Energies 2023, 16(4), 1607; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16041607 - 06 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1273

Abstract

Given the spatial heterogeneity of the social-economic situations across different regions in China, the decomposition of emission reduction targets should be designed according to the actual characteristics of the industrial economy. There is concern about the loss of industrial competitiveness and leakage of [...] Read more.

Given the spatial heterogeneity of the social-economic situations across different regions in China, the decomposition of emission reduction targets should be designed according to the actual characteristics of the industrial economy. There is concern about the loss of industrial competitiveness and leakage of CO₂ emissions if just seven pilot carbon markets operate independently, so the national carbon market of the power sector was established in 2021. In this study, a China two-region CGE model including Guangdong (GD) and the rest of China (ROC) is built on an analysis of the long-term effects of CO₂ prices in industrial sectors at the target 2030 peak. Based on this model, we constructed one business-as-usual scenario and six comparison carbon tax scenarios to quantify the CO₂ cost impact for a wide range of manufacturing sectors and identify specific economic activities that face relatively high CO₂ costs between the two regions. Based on the China two-region CGE model, the risks of leakage and competitiveness distortions in these potentially exposed sectors are qualitatively assessed. The results show that chemical, nonferrous metal, and machinery are GD’s competitive sectors, and agriculture, food, textile, paper, cement, construction, and service belong to ROC’s competitive industry. Both GD and ROC need to further unify carbon pricing policies at the same time to effectively coordinate the carbon intensity reduction target and industrial development, which is 2.6% and 3.2% of the severe GDP loss compared with BaU when implementing carbon tax policy. The results can support the setting of the carbon tax and industrial competitiveness promotion policy and with a strong reference to support the provincial emission reduction path. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 3554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Renewable Energies and Sustainable Development: A Bibliometric Overview

by Francisco García-Lillo, Eduardo Sánchez-García, Bartolomé Marco-Lajara and Pedro Seva-Larrosa

Energies 2023, 16(3), 1211; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16031211 - 22 Jan 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1917

Abstract

Sustainable development has positioned itself as a fundamental element of a transversal nature, being linked to the energy transition. In this sense, it must be included as a mainstream objective of all actions and strategies developed at the social, academic, business, and political [...] Read more.

Sustainable development has positioned itself as a fundamental element of a transversal nature, being linked to the energy transition. In this sense, it must be included as a mainstream objective of all actions and strategies developed at the social, academic, business, and political levels. However, to the best of our knowledge, no bibliometric work has been carried out to date to analyze the main contributions to the literature focused on the concepts of renewable energy and sustainable development. The main aim of this paper is to establish the key trends and academic contributions made in the field of renewable energies and sustainable development. For this purpose, a bibliometric and co-citation analysis has been carried out using the Bibliometrix^® tool, an open-source R package. The results show that this is a field of study that has significantly increased its importance in recent years, which is illustrated using different indicators. We conclude that research trends seem to be directed towards managing the transition to a new, more sustainable energy model composed of renewable energy production systems, in addition to the adoption of new technologies to increase the efficiency of products and power transmission systems. In this respect, the transition towards a new, more sustainable energy model seems to be a fundamental step to guarantee the sustainability of human action. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 1081 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards GreenPLM—Key Sustainable Indicators Selection and Assessment Method Development

by Joanna Helman, Maria Rosienkiewicz, Mariusz Cholewa, Mateusz Molasy and Sylwester Oleszek

Energies 2023, 16(3), 1137; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16031137 - 19 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1153

Abstract

Regulations, depletion of natural resources and changing customer demands are putting pressure on manufacturing companies to consider environmental issues in the development of new products. Companies are using PLM systems to manage the product lifecycle, but the current generation of these systems is [...] Read more.

Regulations, depletion of natural resources and changing customer demands are putting pressure on manufacturing companies to consider environmental issues in the development of new products. Companies are using PLM systems to manage the product lifecycle, but the current generation of these systems is not adequately adapted to product sustainability issues. The research results presented in this article are intended to support two target groups: academia and industry. The main scientific objective is to provide a systematic method for selecting and evaluating sustainability indicators related to the various phases of automotive lifecycle management. The main application goal is to support the industry in its pursuit of greener development by identifying which sustainability indicators are relevant to each phase of the product lifecycle. As a result, the key green indicators related to the automotive industry in line with the GreenPLM concept are identified together with their assignment to the elements of the car’s beginning-of-life stages, as well as their potential data sources. This paper introduces the concept of GreenPLM and its future application possibilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 1176 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Management of Healthcare Settings’ Personnel Based on Intelligent Project-Oriented Approach for Post-War Development

by Nataliia Dotsenko, Dmytro Chumachenko, Yuliia Husieva, Nataliia Kosenko and Igor Chumachenko

Energies 2022, 15(22), 8381; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15228381 - 09 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1239

Abstract

The paper considers the transformation of human resource management processes in the healthcare settings of Ukraine in the context of war and the COVID-19 pandemic. It is noted that the unstable and hostile environment of a healthcare setting during times of crisis leads [...] Read more.

The paper considers the transformation of human resource management processes in the healthcare settings of Ukraine in the context of war and the COVID-19 pandemic. It is noted that the unstable and hostile environment of a healthcare setting during times of crisis leads to the need to change the personnel selection and team formation model to increase the adaptability and resilience of human resources involved in the provision of medical care. The key features of the human resource management process in a turbulent environment are the high migration activity of personnel, which leads to the need to reallocate resources, the need to operate under severe financial constraints, and the need to consider personnel as a non-renewable resource when it is impossible to attract additional resources. To ensure the reliability of the functioning of a medical institution, the transformation of human resource management processes should be based on strategic agility and human resource management, organizational resilience as a resource-based capability, corporate sustainability, and transformation of enterprises’ resources, which can be achieved by applying methodological support for resource management in a multi-project environment. Considering a network of medical institutions as a multi-project environment will allow using the methodology of project-oriented resource management, forming adaptive teams in a multi-project environment, to ensure flexible redistribution of resources both within a single institution and within a network of institutions. It is proposed to use formal transformations to manage a medical institution’s human resources. Applying the proposed approach for managing the human resources of a medical institution is considered. The formation of a project team that satisfies the minimum requirements with the maximum value of the team’s qualification score is considered. It is shown that the use of this methodological support made it possible to choose the composition of the project team with a minimum number and a maximum value of the characteristic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 1832 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Internet Users’ Approach to HRM Portals in the Context of Sustainable Development—A Comparative Analysis of Poland and Türkiye

by Witold Chmielarz, Marek Zborowski and Mesut Atasever

Energies 2022, 15(21), 8301; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15218301 - 07 Nov 2022

Viewed by 1305

Abstract

The purpose of this article was to identify the characteristics of HRM (Human Resources Management) portals that can contribute to building a smart, sustainable society in two countries: Poland and Türkiye. The analyzed countries were selected due to their similar economic situation, as [...] Read more.

The purpose of this article was to identify the characteristics of HRM (Human Resources Management) portals that can contribute to building a smart, sustainable society in two countries: Poland and Türkiye. The analyzed countries were selected due to their similar economic situation, as well as differences in terms of culture and customs and varying degrees of ICT (Information and Communications Technology) implementation in the economy. Conducting the survey at this particular moment was intended to objectivize users’ opinions on the HRM portals and their attributes that may contribute to mitigating the effects of the crisis and facilitating economic development toward the creation of a sustainable society. The survey was conducted in April 2022. It was carried out in both countries and covered a group of more than 850 respondents. The CAWI (Computer Assisted Web Interview) method was used in the survey. The differences between results were identified, and the degree of verification of the hypothesis was established and discussed in this paper. In the first stage of the study, the respondents’ environment was examined, as well as their opinions on the use of HRM portals. The second phase consisted of assessing the attributes of the most well-known HRM portals that can contribute to building a smart, sustainable industry. As a result, the finally distinguished features included the characteristics that were most important to the users of the portals and those that supported the development of HRM portals due to their innovativeness. The study fills the research gap regarding the potential impact of HRM portals and their prospective use in first restoring the economic balance of a sustainable society. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1288 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trends in the Field of Electromobility—From the Perspective of Market Characteristics and Value-Added Services: Literature Review

by Roman Chinoracky, Natalia Stalmasekova and Tatiana Corejova

Energies 2022, 15(17), 6144; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15176144 - 24 Aug 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2379

Abstract

Electromobility is one form of transport that is suitable for achieving the goals of carbon neutrality. Therefore, if stakeholders want to be informed, the aim of the article is to examine trends in the field of electromobility. Trends are explored using a systematic [...] Read more.

Electromobility is one form of transport that is suitable for achieving the goals of carbon neutrality. Therefore, if stakeholders want to be informed, the aim of the article is to examine trends in the field of electromobility. Trends are explored using a systematic literature review. The selected areas are specific factors affecting electromobility, which are market characteristics and value-added services. A specific area of inquiry is important for the reason that if businesses providing or dealing with electromobility are successful in the market, it is necessary to analyse their market position or characteristics of the market in which they operate. If it is clear which laws apply in the market, the company can adapt its offer to the trends that affect the given business segment. The same applies to policy makers, new knowledge can be applied in policy making. Data, about the market and services that are offered on the market, provide knowledge to stakeholders that focus their activities on electromobility. Furthermore, this article provides not only information about the current state of affairs, but also further directions research should take to map electromobility from point of view of market characteristics and value-added services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 4165 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Search of the Innovative Digital Solutions Enhancing Social Pro-Environmental Engagement

by Jakub Zawieska, Hanna Obracht-Prondzyńska, Ewa Duda, Danuta Uryga and Małgorzata Romanowska

Energies 2022, 15(14), 5191; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15145191 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1792

Abstract

Aim: In this paper, we analyze the potential of various digital tools such as gamification-based applications or digital currencies in enabling the social engagement in climate change mitigation processes by encouraging pro-environmental behaviors. Therefore, as a result of this study, we aim to [...] Read more.

Aim: In this paper, we analyze the potential of various digital tools such as gamification-based applications or digital currencies in enabling the social engagement in climate change mitigation processes by encouraging pro-environmental behaviors. Therefore, as a result of this study, we aim to develop a conceptual framework for a green digital tool, dedicated to cities seeking to shape their resilience by supporting bottom-up initiatives and encouraging residents to join the effort through educational interventions. Methods: The study was divided into four steps using a variety of methodological approaches, including a review of the SLR literature, analysis of the successes and failures of existing solutions, and qualitative workshops with stakeholders. Findings: The conceptual basis of the proposed solution has been developed based on the existing knowledge on pro-environmental nudging and lessons learnt from existing solutions. Value/originality: The developed conceptual framework can contribute to local economies while promoting social solidarity. It has the potential to build communities which can act together for the purpose of urban climate resilience because, from the very beginning, it is co-created together with residents. Practical implementation and beneficiaries: The concept described in this paper can serve cities as a supportive solution, shaping climate change awareness and attitudes toward active engagement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 4725 KiB

Open AccessArticle

System Dynamics Modeling and Fuzzy MCDM Approach as Support for Assessment of Sustainability Management on the Example of Transport Sector Company

by Shohreh Moradi, Grzegorz Sierpiński and Houshmand Masoumi

Energies 2022, 15(13), 4917; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15134917 - 05 Jul 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 1734

Abstract

Contemporary challenges for development should involve a sustainable approach. One of the important sectors where such challenges are observed is transport. In a wide range of studies addressing environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainability, an approach that combines these dimensions as an [...] Read more.

Contemporary challenges for development should involve a sustainable approach. One of the important sectors where such challenges are observed is transport. In a wide range of studies addressing environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainability, an approach that combines these dimensions as an integrated technique to assess sustainable development of passenger rail transport organizations is still lacking. The first aim of the presented research is to offer a relatively comprehensive collection of railway sustainability indicators as well as a novel causal loop. The second aim is to assess and improve sustainable management using a case study of a passenger rail transport company. To model the relationships inside and around the transport company, the system dynamics (SD) methodology was chosen, being the primary contribution of the study. Additionally, the Fuzzy-TOPSIS logic is required to find the most appropriate scenarios that may change future strategies by making them more socially and environmentally friendly. The proposed research may support experts in assessing sustainability management in transport companies and improve their performance considerably. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 1911 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relative Prices of Ethanol-Gasoline in the Major Brazilian Capitals: An Analysis to Support Public Policies

by Derick David Quintino, Heloisa Lee Burnquist and Paulo Ferreira

Energies 2022, 15(13), 4795; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15134795 - 30 Jun 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1422

Abstract

The use of biomass as an energy source has advanced in recent decades, given the scientific evidence that it is a solution to the environmental problems faced globally. In this context, biofuels derived from biomass have a prominent role. Among the countries where [...] Read more.

The use of biomass as an energy source has advanced in recent decades, given the scientific evidence that it is a solution to the environmental problems faced globally. In this context, biofuels derived from biomass have a prominent role. Among the countries where this alternative is the most promising, Brazil stands out, just behind the USA. It is, therefore, necessary to assess whether such a replacement is economically viable. For such an assessment, the behavior of the relative price of bioethanol/gasoline is crucial. In the present work, the degree of temporal persistence of relative prices, considering the existence of shocks to which they are exposed, is evaluated, considering 15 important Brazilian capitals, via the detrended fluctuation analysis (

D F A

). The degree of correlation is also evaluated through the detrended cross-correlation analysis (

D C C A

) between fuel prices in São Paulo, the capital of the most populous state and main producer of bioethanol, with the capitals of the 14 states selected for the analysis. The period of analysis takes place between 2004 and 2020. The use of

D C C A

with sliding windows was recently proposed and we also evaluate

D F A

dynamically in this way, and this, together with an extended sample in the context of Brazilian fuel prices, represents the main innovations of the present work. We found that the degree of persistence varies significantly depending on the capitals analyzed, which means that price variations are localized and demand regional stimulus policies. Furthermore, it was found that the correlation with São Paulo is less intense in the most geographically distant capitals. Such evidence is important and complementary to infer how integrated the national bioethanol market is, in order to support public policies aimed at its consolidation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2939 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Global Changes and Disruptions in Supply Chains—Preliminary Research to Sustainable Resilience of Supply Chains

by Katarzyna Grzybowska and Agnieszka Stachowiak

Energies 2022, 15(13), 4579; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15134579 - 23 Jun 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3542

Abstract

The contemporary world becomes more and more volatile and unpredictable every year (dynamic development of technology—Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0, dynamic global changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic, great changes in consumer behavior, climate crisis, geopolitical disruptions). Individuals, companies, and supply chains face [...] Read more.

The contemporary world becomes more and more volatile and unpredictable every year (dynamic development of technology—Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0, dynamic global changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic, great changes in consumer behavior, climate crisis, geopolitical disruptions). Individuals, companies, and supply chains face challenges emerging from economic, sociological, and political phenomena. These phenomena disrupt regular performance and limit the efficient functioning of companies and economies. Due to numerous relations and connections in the economy, disruptions in one area affect the others and spread, growing in range and severity. Hence, disruptions should be dealt with to provide continuity of supply chains and to ensure their efficient and effective performance. The study aims to identify crucial characteristics of disruptions to facilitate disruption minimization strategies. The characteristics of disruptions in supply chains are identified based on a literature review, synthesized and validated by the experts. A study is implemented to validate identified characteristics and to confront theoretical findings with the practical experience and observations of the experts. The results of the study are discussed and commented on. The conclusions from the study refer to the nature and characteristics of disruptions in the contemporary economy, equipping managers with useful knowledge when dealing with disruptions, and academics with observations that can stimulate further discussion on stability, flexibility, and resilience of companies and supply chains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 600 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Resource Consumption Accounting in Achieving Competitive Prices and Sustainable Profitability

by Abdurrahman Mawlood Mustafa, Asil Azimli and Rizgar Abdullah Sabir Jaf

Energies 2022, 15(11), 4155; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15114155 - 05 Jun 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2886

Abstract

This study examines the roles of resource consumption accounting and competitive prices in attaining sustainable profitability. The objectives were (1) to determine whether the adoption of resource consumption accounting practices yields significant improvements in competitive strategies in a highly competitive situation where activity-based [...] Read more.

This study examines the roles of resource consumption accounting and competitive prices in attaining sustainable profitability. The objectives were (1) to determine whether the adoption of resource consumption accounting practices yields significant improvements in competitive strategies in a highly competitive situation where activity-based costing has proved to be insignificant, and (2) to ascertain if the positive relationship between competitive pricing and sustainable profitability is increased by the extent to which resource consumption accounting exerts pressure for sustainability profitability. A PLS-SEM procedure was applied in analysing 129 of the top 30 performing companies’ structured questionnaire responses drawn from five industries in Kurdistan from 2021. The empirical results demonstrated that competitive pricing models involving resource consumption accounting systems provide superior price forecasting, error reduction and profit maximisation capabilities than existing energy models. The study’s outcomes highlight that the extent to which resource consumption accounting exerts pressure on sustainability profitability significantly increases the positive relationship between competitive pricing and sustainable profitability. The results of this study advance construct and item development involving competitive pricing and resource consumption accounting while testing relationships to uncover the moderating role of resource consumption accounting in profit maximisation. Thus, energy and non-energy industrial companies must rely on resource consumption accounting to set competitive prices and enhance and sustain their profitability by considering the overlooked energy pricing stochastic parameters and errors amid rising energy shortages and costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 5216 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intelligent Decision Support System for Modeling Transport and Passenger Flows in Human-Centric Urban Transport Systems

by Natalia Davidich, Andrii Galkin, Yurii Davidich, Tibor Schlosser, Silvia Capayova, Joanna Nowakowska-Grunt, Yevhen Kush and Russell Thompson

Energies 2022, 15(7), 2495; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15072495 - 29 Mar 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2407

Abstract

Engineering human-centric urban transport systems should be carried out using information technology in forecasting traffic and passenger flows. One of the most important objects of urban transport systems’ progress is modeling patterns of transport flows and their distribution on the road network. These [...] Read more.

Engineering human-centric urban transport systems should be carried out using information technology in forecasting traffic and passenger flows. One of the most important objects of urban transport systems’ progress is modeling patterns of transport flows and their distribution on the road network. These patterns are determined by the subjective choice of city residents of traffic routes using public and private transport. This study aimed to form a sequence of stages of modeling transport and passenger flows in human-centric urban transport systems and passenger flows in the human-centric urban intelligent transport systems and to determine the patterns of change to the gravity function of employees of municipal services. It was revealed that the trip distribution function of workers of urban service enterprises can be described by the attributes of the structure of the city, socio-economic data, and attributes characterizing the zones and its residents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 2515 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Supply Chain Collaboration for Green Innovations: Evidence from the High-Tech Industry in Poland

by Barbara Ocicka, Anna Baraniecka and Bartłomiej Jefmański

Energies 2022, 15(5), 1750; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15051750 - 26 Feb 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2528

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to investigate whether the wide scope of supply chain collaboration including both customers and suppliers (Upstream–downstream External Collaboration) determines the greening of innovation more significantly than the scope limited only to suppliers (Upstream External Collaboration) or customers [...] Read more.

The purpose of this article is to investigate whether the wide scope of supply chain collaboration including both customers and suppliers (Upstream–downstream External Collaboration) determines the greening of innovation more significantly than the scope limited only to suppliers (Upstream External Collaboration) or customers (Downstream External Collaboration). This goal was achieved as part of extensive research on the impact of relational capital on the innovativeness of high-tech companies in Poland. The results of the research were analysed using fuzzy conversion scales and descriptive statistics based on triangular fuzzy numbers. The application of the achievements of the fuzzy sets theory made it possible to test the hypotheses presented in the article with the use of fuzzy analysis of variance (fuzzy ANOVA). The findings confirm that the subjective scope of collaboration in the supply chain is important for greening innovation. Companies that cooperate with both suppliers and customers (Upstream–downstream External Collaboration) declared a greater tendency to green their innovations than those that cooperate with only one group of partners. The research findings contribute to the literature on the role of collaboration in the ecological responsibility and environmental performance of supply chain partners. The conclusions may have practical implications for the design and implementation of strategies in sustainable supply chain management. The study provides important lessons for SC managers facing the challenge of sustainable management during and after the COVID-19 outbreak. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 5656 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Generalized Distribution Utility Index in Consumer-Driven Logistics

by Andrii Galkin, Tibor Schlosser, Yuliia Khvesyk, Olexiy Kuzkin, Yuriy Klapkiv and Gabriel Balint

Energies 2022, 15(3), 872; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15030872 - 25 Jan 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2269

Abstract

In the current conditions of sharp change in demand and instability of markets, there is a need to develop a method and evaluation criterion that would meet the sustainable scenario of a supplying goods system including the consumer-driven concept. The analysis of goods [...] Read more.

In the current conditions of sharp change in demand and instability of markets, there is a need to develop a method and evaluation criterion that would meet the sustainable scenario of a supplying goods system including the consumer-driven concept. The analysis of goods distribution methods showed that to assess the integrated efficiency between the supply system and its end-consumers, it is advisable to apply integrated criterion efficiency—generalized distribution utility. The developed indicator takes into account the profit of the distribution channel (or its participants) and the generalized costs of end users during shopping activity. Based on the proposed indicator, the feasibility of using vehicle capacity is substantiated, which provides the maximum generalized distribution costs value and corresponds to the optimal sustainable distribution in consumer-driven logistics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 716 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Entrepreneurship for Business Opportunity Recognition: Analysis of an Awareness Questionnaire among Organisations

by Helena Fidlerová, Augustín Stareček, Natália Vraňaková, Cagri Bulut and Michael Keaney

Energies 2022, 15(3), 849; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15030849 - 24 Jan 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4922

Abstract

An important challenge for the future is focusing on sustainability in life and business. The three elements of sustainability (economic, environmental, and social), defined in 17 factors by the United Nations (UN) as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), may, therefore, be the main [...] Read more.

An important challenge for the future is focusing on sustainability in life and business. The three elements of sustainability (economic, environmental, and social), defined in 17 factors by the United Nations (UN) as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), may, therefore, be the main drivers of business competitiveness and opportunity recognition. The main aim of the article is to identify the awareness level of sustainability and sustainable development goals in the context of business opportunity areas by analysing the results of a survey of organisations in six countries (Finland, Slovakia, Italy, Austria, Spain, and Turkey). A multilingual questionnaire, administered in six participating countries, was used as a collection tool to determine the organisation’s level of awareness regarding the SDGs. A research questionnaire was filled in by 238 respondents, providing a cross-cultural view of their attitudes, knowledge, and future interest in sustainability and the SDGs. The obtained results indicate differences in the approach to sustainability issues, the scope of knowledge, interest, competencies in sustainable development and SDGs, and the content of implementation of sustainability and SDGs in organisations in different sectors, regions and countries. Further statistical evaluation of the research hypotheses states the significant relationship between the two variables: sustainable strategy and the designation of a responsible employee in each organisation rs = 0.677 (α = 0.05). It is essential to eliminate the gap in the cross-cultural approach and knowledge in engaging with sustainable strategy and its implementation in current and future organisation activities in the context of sustainability and SDGs, in order to enhance opportunities for the growth of sustainability-focused entrepreneurship across different sectors and countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 351 KiB

Open AccessArticle

On the Assessment of e-Banking Websites Supporting Sustainable Development Goals

by Witold Chmielarz and Marek Zborowski

Energies 2022, 15(1), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15010378 - 05 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1966

Abstract

The main aim of this article was to test the authors’ proprietary method (i.e., the conversion method applied to evaluate e-banking services that support sustainable development goals in households, communities, and society). The authors’ conversion method can be applied with the aim of [...] Read more.

The main aim of this article was to test the authors’ proprietary method (i.e., the conversion method applied to evaluate e-banking services that support sustainable development goals in households, communities, and society). The authors’ conversion method can be applied with the aim of maintaining a balance between households, producers, and public administration services in line with the principles of sustainable development of the information society in Poland. To achieve this goal, the authors identified the differences between the results obtained using the conversion method and the results produced by other methods such as TOPSIS, Promethee II, and PROSA involving the same group of respondents. A hypothesis was made about the existence of significant differences in the results obtained as part of the studies. The research was carried out on a sample of nearly 830 ratings concerning the 27 most popular electronic banks in Poland. As part of the survey, the respondents assessed 18 characteristics (attributes) of the selected banks using a simplified Likert scale. The study was conducted during the pandemic in Poland in 2020. The authors compared the results achieved in the case of the TOPSIS, Promethee II, and PROSA methods and the ones obtained with the application of the conversion method. Then, the ratings of the e-banking websites were arranged in descending order, and the distances between the positions in the rankings obtained by the conversion method and other methods were calculated. In addition, the R2 correlation coefficients were calculated for all combinations of the results received using individual methods. The results showed the greatest differences both in the absolute distances between the positions obtained in the ranking and the lowest value of the R2 correlation coefficient in the case of the conversion method in relation to the other methods. The limitation of the present research resulted from the fact that the study sample included respondents who were all members of the academic environment. The students analyzed in the study were part of a group supporting globalization processes where e-business solutions are widely used. However, the purchases of goods and services both local and foreign made by this group were often limited in scope and value due to a lack of funds. The research results indicate a potential need for improvement of the conversion method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

21 pages, 1127 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Priorities for Research on Sustainable Agriculture: The Case of Poland

by Barbara Wieliczko and Zbigniew Floriańczyk

Energies 2022, 15(1), 257; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15010257 - 31 Dec 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2663

Abstract

The need for sustainable agricultural sector is growing rapidly due to climate changes. As there are still knowledge gaps and the need for innovations that support farmers in the sustainability transition, there is a need for determining priority research areas that are vital [...] Read more.

The need for sustainable agricultural sector is growing rapidly due to climate changes. As there are still knowledge gaps and the need for innovations that support farmers in the sustainability transition, there is a need for determining priority research areas that are vital for the sustainable development of agriculture. The aim of our study was to derive a long-term vision of the desirable agricultural sector in Poland and prioritize research areas required to make Polish agriculture sustainable. We applied the living lab approach and, by conducting a backcasting exercise with the lab members, we identified a desirable vision of agriculture in Poland and the research areas needed to realize this vision. Using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Cumulative Voting (CV), we prioritized these research areas. Our results show that adaptation to climate changes is the most important area of research, having 38.6% of the total possible number of points using AHP and 29.7% in the case of CV. The analysis of the Polish strategic documents related to agriculture and agricultural research shows that, to some extent, these key research areas are already part of the national policy, but there is not sufficient funding and coordination to tackle all aspects of sustainability in agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 1703 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Conceptual Framework of Sustainable Management of the Process of Forming a Project Team with Functional Redundancy

by Nataliia Dotsenko, Dmytro Chumachenko, Igor Chumachenko, Andrii Galkin, Tomasz Lis and Marek Lis

Energies 2021, 14(24), 8235; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14248235 - 07 Dec 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2464

Abstract

The paper examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on human resource management processes in project-oriented companies. It is proposed to use formal transformations on groups of performers. The use of formal transformations will reduce the influence of the subjective factor and improve [...] Read more.

The paper examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on human resource management processes in project-oriented companies. It is proposed to use formal transformations on groups of performers. The use of formal transformations will reduce the influence of the subjective factor and improve the quality of sustainability management decisions made when forming a project team. The formalization of the selection process of applicants and the distribution of work among the performers have been considered. The existing methods of forming a project team with functional redundancy are approximate. Methodological support for the process of forming a project team with functional redundancy, based on a logical-combinatorial approach, and allowing to form project teams under given constraints, is proposed. A method of forming a functionally redundant project team based on formal transformations of groups of performers has been developed. The use of the apparatus of symbolic sequences for the formation of a project team with functional redundancy is proposed. An example of using the proposed method when forming a command with functional redundancy is considered. It is shown that the use of this methodological support makes it possible to select the composition of the project team with the minimum number and the minimum value of the characteristic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 470 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Logistics Practices Seeking Development of Sustainability: Evidence from Lithuanian Transportation and Logistics Companies

by Milita Vienažindienė, Vilma Tamulienė and Jurgita Zaleckienė

Energies 2021, 14(22), 7500; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14227500 - 10 Nov 2021

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6873

Abstract

Reducing the harmful effects on the environment and increasing the expression of sustainable development principles is one of the most topical challenges all around the world. Given the importance of logistics for the economy and the growing concern for the environment, the purpose [...] Read more.

Reducing the harmful effects on the environment and increasing the expression of sustainable development principles is one of the most topical challenges all around the world. Given the importance of logistics for the economy and the growing concern for the environment, the purpose of this article was to reveal a green logistics (GL) practice framework for sustainable development. Based on a systematic and comparative analysis of the scientific literature, the authors present a theoretical conceptual model for applying GL practices to sustainable development. In order to assess the expression of GL practices and their determinants in Lithuanian transport and logistics services companies, a quantitative questionnaire survey was conducted. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses were used to analyze the data. The results made it possible to identify GL areas such as green transportation, green warehousing, green management, sustainable waste management, and the prevailing GL practices in Lithuania: “Eco-driving”, “Optimization of transport routes”, and “Optimization of transport cargo distribution”. The factors that most encouraged the application of GL practices in the studied companies were: legal regulation and policies, requirements of business partners, service users, customers and society, awareness of the company’s top management, and corporate culture focused on environmental conservation and sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

22 pages, 3373 KiB

Open AccessReview

Analyzing the Role of Renewable Energy in Meeting the Sustainable Development Goals: A Bibliometric Analysis

by Bartolomé Marco-Lajara, Javier Martínez-Falcó, Eduardo Sánchez-García and Luis A. Millan-Tudela

Energies 2023, 16(7), 3137; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16073137 - 30 Mar 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2149

Abstract

Academic contributions regarding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and renewable energy have been steadily increasing, given their essential relevance to economic, societal, and environmental progress. This research aims to examine the structure of scientific knowledge on the connection between SDGs and renewable energy [...] Read more.

Academic contributions regarding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and renewable energy have been steadily increasing, given their essential relevance to economic, societal, and environmental progress. This research aims to examine the structure of scientific knowledge on the connection between SDGs and renewable energy by utilizing bibliometric methods and analyzing 3132 articles published between 1992 and 2022. Results indicate a sharp rise in the production rate since 2015, Environmental Sciences as the most prevalent area of study, and the leading role of publishers Elsevier, MDPI, and Springer in the publication of papers related to the subject. Consequently, this research may prove useful for both novice and veteran researchers who wish to further their understanding of the academic production regarding the SDGs and renewable energy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Sustainable Development: Policies, Challenges, and Further

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Published Papers (22 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI