Research

22 pages, 1546 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Personality-Traits Taxonomy and Operational and Environmental Performance: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Small and Medium Scale Manufacturing Enterprises

by Chinyerem Grace Adeniji, Odunayo Paul Salau, Opeyemi Olunike Joel, Oluwakemi Oluwafunmilayo Onayemi and Oluwakemi Rebecca Alake

Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3497; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083497 - 22 Apr 2024

Viewed by 335

Abstract

This research aimed to assess the operational and environmental performance of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria in relation to their adoption of personality-traits taxonomy (i.e., conscientiousness, openness to experience, extraversion, neuroticism or emotional resilience and agreeableness). The survey-based study involved the [...] Read more.

This research aimed to assess the operational and environmental performance of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria in relation to their adoption of personality-traits taxonomy (i.e., conscientiousness, openness to experience, extraversion, neuroticism or emotional resilience and agreeableness). The survey-based study involved the entire population of SME operators in South West Nigeria, totaling 1842 individuals (i.e., entrepreneurs). Through the use of stratified random-selection methods, a sample size of 420 was chosen. Data was collected, and both structural and measurement models were used to assess it. The results of the study demonstrate that personality traits have a significant influence on how successful SMEs function. The results also demonstrate that personality traits have a positive impact on SMEs’ environmental performance. These findings suggest that sustaining operational and environmental performance may be accomplished by resource allocation, promoting diversity and inclusion, and employing trustworthy assessment methods. To enhance both their overall operational performance and their environmental performance in particular, the study advises SME operators in Nigeria to undertake proper management of personality traits for sustainability. The paper recommends for greater research on this subject and emphasises the necessity of understanding how personality factors impact operational and environmental performance in Nigerian SMEs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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16 pages, 2055 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Analytical Study Predicting Future Conditions and Application Strategies of Concrete Bridge Pavement Based on Pavement Management System Database

by Jinhyuk Lee, Donghyuk Jung, Cheolmin Baek and Deoksoon An

Sustainability 2023, 15(24), 16680; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152416680 - 08 Dec 2023

Viewed by 514

Abstract

South Korea is implementing various policies to address the aging of infrastructures and improve road infrastructure management. Moreover, numerous research projects aiming at the development of necessary technologies for the proper implementation of these policies are underway. This study specifically aims to overcome [...] Read more.

South Korea is implementing various policies to address the aging of infrastructures and improve road infrastructure management. Moreover, numerous research projects aiming at the development of necessary technologies for the proper implementation of these policies are underway. This study specifically aims to overcome existing problems in bridge pavement maintenance, such as the inaccuracy of future condition predictions and the selection of incorrect evaluation indicators. Our goal is to provide a new approach for the improved management of the bridge pavement management system (BPMS). To address the issues of accuracy in future condition prediction and evaluation indicator selection within the existing maintenance system, we utilized particle filtering, a Kalman filter method among machine learning techniques. This method allows for the prediction of future conditions, based on the nonlinearly collected bridge pavement conditions within BPMS. Furthermore, we proposed a systematic bridge pavement management strategy. This strategy utilizes traffic volume (ESALs; equivalent single axle loadings), a factor that can influence the future condition of bridge pavement, in correlation with the future condition predicted through particle filtering within BPMS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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20 pages, 667 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unlocking the Creative Potential: A Case Study of Luoyang City’s Creative Tourism Development

by Ruixi Guo, IokTeng Esther Kou and Qingrong Jiang

Sustainability 2023, 15(20), 14710; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152014710 - 10 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1264

Abstract

With the demand for high-quality and personalized tourism experiences, creative tourism has flourished as a novel form of tourism activity. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the viewpoint of suppliers and the essential creative elements that support business sustainability. To bridge this research [...] Read more.

With the demand for high-quality and personalized tourism experiences, creative tourism has flourished as a novel form of tourism activity. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the viewpoint of suppliers and the essential creative elements that support business sustainability. To bridge this research gap, the current study conducted a qualitative study to uncover critical creative elements (CCE) from experienced suppliers. The data were derived from interviews with 20 key informants who were members of a leading creative tourism business. Inclusion of recommendations for destination decision-makers, attraction managers, and aspiring entrepreneurs interested in engaging in the creative tourism industry is provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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17 pages, 2582 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Green Ocean Strategy for Financial Sustainability (GOSFS) in Higher Education Institutions: King Abdulaziz University as a Case Study

by Isam Y. Al-Filali, Reda M. S. Abdulaal and Ammar A. Melaibari

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7246; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097246 - 27 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2172

Abstract

Financing education has recently been a big concern since educational expenditure continues to rise. As a result, there will be a gradual shift away from the “unilateral approach” to funding and toward the “diversification of financing resources”. The aim of this paper is [...] Read more.

Financing education has recently been a big concern since educational expenditure continues to rise. As a result, there will be a gradual shift away from the “unilateral approach” to funding and toward the “diversification of financing resources”. The aim of this paper is to propose an innovative strategy plan to optimize universities’ investment sources and maintain their financial sustainability. This approach was known as the Green Ocean Strategy for Financial Sustainability (GOSFS). To effectively implement GOSFS in higher education institutions, a roadmap of 18 steps is constructed around three primary key performance areas (resource development, good governance, and regulations and legislation). The GOSFS was applied within four successive stages at King Abdulaziz University as a case study. With 18 pillars found under these three key performance areas, a long-term target for 2045 and an overall goal for 2025 were defined. In addition, the paper created novel versions of the Business Model Canvas to meet the GOSFS plan concept. To effectively employ GOSFS, four recommendations are offered to accelerate business growth and engage the university investment ecosystem, including whether to invest in highly qualified human capital, expand financial resources, or leverage technical resources. Future directions are also provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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15 pages, 718 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Organizational Justice on Employee Satisfaction: Integrating the Exchange and the Value-Based Perspectives

by Hyung-Woo Lee and Dong-Young Rhee

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 5993; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15075993 - 30 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3399

Abstract

Organizational justice is known to help promote organizational sustainability. The literature has explained the impact of organizational justice relying heavily on the social exchange perspective, the idea that employees are motivated to show favorable attitudes in return for the fair rewards that organization [...] Read more.

Organizational justice is known to help promote organizational sustainability. The literature has explained the impact of organizational justice relying heavily on the social exchange perspective, the idea that employees are motivated to show favorable attitudes in return for the fair rewards that organization has provided. To the contrary, little attention has been given to the proposition that it affects employee’s attitudes by increasing their intrinsic motivation. The latter has a greater implication of sustainable management since intrinsic motivation of its employees is the key to the sustained success of an organization. This approach can be called a value-based perspective. To fill that gap, this study examined the mediating effects of both the intrinsic and extrinsic motivation links between organizational justice and employee satisfaction. The analysis revealed that the indirect mediating effects of intrinsic motivation were greater than those of extrinsic motivation for procedural and interactional justice, while the mediating effect of extrinsic motivation was greater when it comes to distributive justice. In addition, the sum of the indirect effects of intrinsic motivation was comparable to that of extrinsic motivation. This result implies that the mediating effects of intrinsic motivation are as important as those of extrinsic motivation, confirming our prediction that organizational justice contributes to organizational sustainability via the path that has not been verified so far. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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15 pages, 289 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Do Age and Gender Change the Perception of Workplace Social Sustainability?

by Chiuhsiang Joe Lin and Remba Yanuar Efranto

Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5013; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065013 - 11 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1696

Abstract

Social sustainability must be included into the workplace in order to achieve corporate sustainability. Each indicator of the workplace’s social sustainability must consider employee perspectives. In this study, we estimate Indonesia’s employee preferences gap in workplace social sustainability. The dimensions referred to include [...] Read more.

Social sustainability must be included into the workplace in order to achieve corporate sustainability. Each indicator of the workplace’s social sustainability must consider employee perspectives. In this study, we estimate Indonesia’s employee preferences gap in workplace social sustainability. The dimensions referred to include views on employee well-being and concerns about safety. Workplace comfort and musculoskeletal health are considered dimensions supported by environmental concerns. This research was conducted on 643 current employees and analyzed based on a workplace social sustainability questionnaire. Through online surveys, we measured employee preferences concerning workplace social sustainability diversity and how they differ by gender, industry sector, age, education level, and types of industry. The findings of this research will encourage the company to reconsider its approach to social sustainability improvement in terms of the contributions made by its employees. The study also suggests research into whether and how differences in gender, industry sector and industry type are shaped due to workplace social sustainability. Gender concerns must be considered to achieve social sustainability in the workplace. It contributes significantly to achieving the 5th Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

17 pages, 855 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Interval-Valued Hesitant Fuzzy DEMATEL-Based Blockchain Technology Adoption Barriers Evaluation Methodology in Agricultural Supply Chain Management

by Jung-Fa Tsai, Dinh-Hieu Tran, Phi-Hung Nguyen and Ming-Hua Lin

Sustainability 2023, 15(5), 4686; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15054686 - 06 Mar 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1934

Abstract

Blockchain technology is emerging and has high potential to improve and transform the agricultural supply chain. This study investigates the critical barriers to blockchain technology adoption in the Vietnamese agricultural supply chain using a novel interval-valued hesitant fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory [...] Read more.

Blockchain technology is emerging and has high potential to improve and transform the agricultural supply chain. This study investigates the critical barriers to blockchain technology adoption in the Vietnamese agricultural supply chain using a novel interval-valued hesitant fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (IVHF-DEMATEL) approach. The IVHF-DEMATEL technique is applied to identify cause-and-effect relationships and draw the influence-relations map of the barriers. In contrast to prior work, which converts fuzzy sets into crisp sets and then uses crisp set operations, this study is the first study to investigate the Vietnamese agricultural supply chain that uses fully hesitant fuzzy operations representing experts’ assessment without information loss during the conversion. Our results show that ‘lack of government regulation’, ‘lack of scalability and system speed’, ‘a large amount of resource and capital requirements’, and ‘lack of trust among agro-stakeholder or public perception’ are the main barriers. Consistent with previous studies, ‘lack of government regulation’ is the most significant barrier. The results also indicate the hesitant degree of each barrier and better inform decision-makers about uncertain situations. Moreover, a priority order for tackling barriers is proposed to accelerate blockchain adoption in the Vietnamese agricultural supply chain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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18 pages, 647 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Applying a Hybrid MCDM Model to Evaluate Green Supply Chain Management Practices

by Jung-Fa Tsai, Shih-Ping Shen and Ming-Hua Lin

Sustainability 2023, 15(3), 2148; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15032148 - 23 Jan 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2058

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted global supply chain managers to reassess their operations. Developing a green supply chain requires successfully integrating environmental responsibility principles and benchmarks into supply chain management practices. In the past, there have been few studies on the most effective [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted global supply chain managers to reassess their operations. Developing a green supply chain requires successfully integrating environmental responsibility principles and benchmarks into supply chain management practices. In the past, there have been few studies on the most effective strategies for reducing the environmental impact of supply chains and improving their sustainability. This study used the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method to construct a structural model evaluation system of the green supply chain management (GSCM) to evaluate the interdependent relationships among dimensions and criteria. A GSCM evaluation system was created after using the DEMATEL-based ANP (DANP) to convert the GSCM evaluation indicators and impact factors into degrees of importance. This study explores the obstacles and challenges that organizations face when implementing GSCM practices and how these challenges can be overcome. The results found that organizational changes had the most significant impact, given that they would also improve the other three dimensions. Among the 16 evaluation criteria, resource allocation and market expansion optimization were the most important. Based on these findings, the study proposed specific improvement strategies that corporations and other stakeholders could use to adopt GSCM practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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18 pages, 1891 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Model of Integrated Community-Based Bamboo Management for the Bamboo Industry in Ngada Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

by Desy Ekawati, Lina Karlinasari, Rinekso Soekmadi and Machfud

Sustainability 2023, 15(2), 977; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15020977 - 05 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2056

Abstract

The potentials of bamboo resources owned by the community in Ngada Regency has not been managed and appropriately utilized. There were no integrated programs between the on-farm and off-farm sectors and no clear roles and responsibilities among the stakeholders involved. Soft System Methodology [...] Read more.

The potentials of bamboo resources owned by the community in Ngada Regency has not been managed and appropriately utilized. There were no integrated programs between the on-farm and off-farm sectors and no clear roles and responsibilities among the stakeholders involved. Soft System Methodology (SSM) framework approach was carried out through stakeholder analysis, CATWOE analysis, and gap analysis. The root definition of the current situation was that the model of sustainable community bamboo management and utilization (W) is responsible to the local and central government as well as the bamboo manufacturing industry as off-taker (O) with integrated supporting programs and regulations, ensuring the potential of bamboo resources and the bamboo product market (E) which was carried out together with stakeholders (A) through active participation and synergy programs (T) to improve the welfare of the community of bamboo owners, craftsmen, and bamboo entrepreneurs (C). The study produces a suitable and appropriate strategy based on the corrective actions of existing problems and recommendations formulated from conceptual models and existing actual conditions on integrated sustainable bamboo management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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30 pages, 1242 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Characteristics of YouTubers and Their Influence on Viewers’ Purchase Intention: A Viewers’ Pseudo-Social Interaction Perspective

by Bo-Chiuan Su, Li-Wei Wu and Ji-Ping Wu

Sustainability 2023, 15(1), 550; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15010550 - 28 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4936

Abstract

As the video content online becomes more and more diverse and rich, YouTube has become the most commonly used video platform by the public. When choosing a product brand, viewers give priority to products recommended by their favorite YouTubers. To our best knowledge, [...] Read more.

As the video content online becomes more and more diverse and rich, YouTube has become the most commonly used video platform by the public. When choosing a product brand, viewers give priority to products recommended by their favorite YouTubers. To our best knowledge, no studies in the research literature have explored the relationships between the degree of YouTubers’ self-disclosure, similarity of viewers and YouTubers, YouTubers’ attractiveness, and viewers’ pseudo-social interaction with YouTubers and how these affect viewers’ stickiness to YouTubers, viewers’ brand attitudes toward products, and viewers’ perceptions and purchase intentions of YouTuber-recommended brands and products. Viewers’ stickiness to YouTubers, viewers’ brand attitudes toward products, and viewers’ pseudo-social interactions with YouTubers are mediating variables. A total of 435 valid questionnaires were collected. The results show that the degree of YouTubers’ self-disclosure, similarity of viewers and YouTubers, and YouTubers’ attractiveness have a significantly positive impact on viewers’ pseudo-social interaction, and viewers’ pseudo-social interaction will also have a significantly positive impact on viewers’ brand attitude and stickiness to YouTubers. Moreover, viewers’ brand attitude has a significantly positive impact on viewers’ purchase intention. The results also show that the degree of self-disclosure, similarity, and attractiveness indirectly affect brand attitudes through pseudo-social interaction as an intermediary, and the pseudo-social interaction has an indirect effect on purchase intention through brand attitudes. Finally, based on the findings, this paper focuses on the YouTube market and proposes strategies that YouTubers can improve to increase viewers’ stickiness, brand attitudes, and purchase intentions for brands and products recommended by YouTubers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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24 pages, 517 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Integrated Approach with CLFPR-Based ANP and Fuzzy TOPSIS for Evaluating Business Performance of Rural Homestays: Study from China

by Lei-Yi Peng, Hong Xu, Jia Lu, Jian-Ji Luo and Hui-Hua Zhan

Sustainability 2023, 15(1), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15010538 - 28 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1969

Abstract

Given the high importance of the performance of rural homestays to the local economy, this study aims to fill the gap in homestay performance research and make rural homestays more competitive and sustainable after the coronavirus disease epidemic (COVID-19). Integrating a consistent linguistic [...] Read more.

Given the high importance of the performance of rural homestays to the local economy, this study aims to fill the gap in homestay performance research and make rural homestays more competitive and sustainable after the coronavirus disease epidemic (COVID-19). Integrating a consistent linguistic fuzzy preference relations-based analytic network process (CLFPR-based ANP) and a fuzzy technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS), this study constructs a comprehensive evaluation model of the performance of rural homestays and empirically analyzes homestay performance in Zhejiang. The results show the following: (1) Among the criteria’s weights by CLFPR-based ANP, homestay operation and management, service quality, and homestay geist and community co-prosperity should be given much more attention; the importance of factors regarding the environment and building of rural homestays is gradually weakening. (2) In light of ranking alternatives based on performance evaluation by fuzzy TOPSIS, the homestay with the optimal performance has been found, which practitioners can use as a benchmark. Therefore, the priorities of these criteria further deepen the understanding of the performance of rural homestays and underline the development direction for practitioners. Simultaneously, in terms of feasibility and reliability, the integrated approach comprises a beneficial attempt and becomes an effective evaluation tool for practitioners to improve effectiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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27 pages, 1050 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling a New Supplier Preference Paradigm: A Business-to-Business and African Developing Economy Context

by Rodney Duffett and Myles Wakeham

Sustainability 2023, 15(1), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15010411 - 27 Dec 2022

Viewed by 3890

Abstract

The recent COVID-19 pandemic, and subsequent invasion of Ukraine by Russia, has demonstrated to the world the volatile and fragile nature of global supply chains. Hence, this study is based on research gaps that propose new sustainable business-to-business (B2B) procurement/supplier models that consider [...] Read more.

The recent COVID-19 pandemic, and subsequent invasion of Ukraine by Russia, has demonstrated to the world the volatile and fragile nature of global supply chains. Hence, this study is based on research gaps that propose new sustainable business-to-business (B2B) procurement/supplier models that consider different factors across industries and uses the triple bottom line (TBL) framework as the theoretical underpinning. The study used a quantitative methodological approach and convenience sampling to survey 445 organizations in a B2B procurement context in South Africa. The data were analyzed via structural equation modeling. The inquiry revealed that service quality was important to determine access to personnel and environmental sustainability, which had a favorable influence on personal relationships and gifts and, in turn, positively influenced relationships with salespeople and management. Culture, employment equity, and affirmative action positively affected Black Economic Empowerment status which had a favorable influence on the preference of suppliers’ salespeople. Several other positive associations were revealed, which resulted in a unique theoretical supplier preference contribution to the TBL framework. The study also provides organizations with a number of practical benefits stemming from the associations between the new sustainable B2B procurement/supplier constructs that are important as value-added business activities in an African developing economic context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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17 pages, 630 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Global Value Chain Embedding on Corporate Risk Taking of China’s A-Share Market-Listed Companies from 2000–2016

by Junli Wang, Wendong Lv, Yao Zhao and Na Xu

Sustainability 2022, 14(20), 12969; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142012969 - 11 Oct 2022

Viewed by 1149

Abstract

Moving towards the high end of the global value chain (GVC) is an inevitable trend of the development of Chinese enterprises, and the level of enterprises’ risk-taking behavior is directly related to their profit acquisition in the global value chain. Based on the [...] Read more.

Moving towards the high end of the global value chain (GVC) is an inevitable trend of the development of Chinese enterprises, and the level of enterprises’ risk-taking behavior is directly related to their profit acquisition in the global value chain. Based on the matching data of CSMAR and the “General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China”, this paper explores how the embedding of the global value chain affects the risk-taking behavior of enterprises. It is found that (1) R&D investment is an important factor for listed companies to enhance their risk taking by embedding in the global value chain; however, financial constraints will negatively affect this factor. (2) The study’s findings also indicated that improving innovation capacity and increasing R&D investment is crucial for enterprises in developing countries to raise their corporate value. Moreover, it is helpful for enterprises to escape the jaws of danger in the GVC wave. It is advised that the government develop a financial market or enhance the external environment to encourage enterprises’ development. This study reveals the specific impact of global value chain embedding on corporate risk-taking behavior, provides new empirical evidence for understanding the micro mechanism of the relationship between global value chain embedding and economic growth, and has great practical significance for promoting Chinese enterprises to the high-end of the global value chain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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15 pages, 1126 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Corporate Sustainability and Market Response According to the Name Change Strategy: Focusing on Korean IT Industry Firms

by Jungmi Park and Yoojin Shin

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12168; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912168 - 26 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1090

Abstract

This study seeks to determine whether corporate sustainability increases due to the corporate name change strategy by analyzing the sample of IT companies listed on the KOSDAQ market from 2010 to 2019, through the event study methodology and OLS regression. This study has [...] Read more.

This study seeks to determine whether corporate sustainability increases due to the corporate name change strategy by analyzing the sample of IT companies listed on the KOSDAQ market from 2010 to 2019, through the event study methodology and OLS regression. This study has the following conclusions: first, the analysis results show that if the market response to an IT company’s corporate name change is positive, its financial constraint improves after the name change. Second, even if the companies’ financial constraint conditions before the corporate name change differ, their financial constraints improve after the name change if the market response to their announcements to change their corporate names is favorable. In other words, in terms of corporate sustainability, the financial constraint of a company improves depending on how it establishes the strategy to change its corporate name as well as the level of the market response to the announcement to change its corporate name. This implies that an IT company’s strategy to change its corporate name can affect corporate sustainability. Consequently, from the perspective of IT companies, this study serves as a guide for stakeholders’ decision-making processes and proves that the financial constraint can be improved through a corporate name change strategy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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16 pages, 1960 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Computational Thinking and Teamwork by Applying Balanced Scorecard for Sustainable Development

by Lung-Chun Chang and Wen-Cheng Lin

Sustainability 2022, 14(18), 11723; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141811723 - 19 Sep 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1639

Abstract

This work aimed to analyze the concept of a balance scorecard (BSC) tool integrated with computational thinking (CT) in university education. An experiential approach to learning about the CT through the study of a BSC performance evaluation tool has been reported. The BSC [...] Read more.

This work aimed to analyze the concept of a balance scorecard (BSC) tool integrated with computational thinking (CT) in university education. An experiential approach to learning about the CT through the study of a BSC performance evaluation tool has been reported. The BSC project offers students hands-on experience with the team-based, cross-functional, and strategic aspects of conceptual thinking. This study integrates the four aspects of the BSC into CT to evaluate students through four perspectives. The experiential approach requires each student to compose a team, find information about their motivation, and develop BSC concepts that apply learning performance in a computational thinking course. The conclusion suggests that the BSC project had a positive impact on the students who participated, indicating their overall knowledge and understanding of functional areas and relationships within the teamwork cooperation were enhanced. Our paper reports an experiential method of learning CT by studying BSC performance evaluation tools. The application example can enhance students’ logical thinking, what is indispensable and essential in maintaining competitiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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15 pages, 1766 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Deterioration Models for Bridge Pavement Materials for a Life Cycle Cost Analysis

by Daeseok Han, Jin-Hyuk Lee and Ki-Tae Park

Sustainability 2022, 14(18), 11435; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141811435 - 12 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1996

Abstract

As the Framework Act on Sustainable Infrastructure Management has recently been enacted in Korea, it has become mandatory to establish a medium-and long-term plan for managing social infrastructure and evaluating the feasibility of maintenance projects. However, road agencies are experiencing problems due to [...] Read more.

As the Framework Act on Sustainable Infrastructure Management has recently been enacted in Korea, it has become mandatory to establish a medium-and long-term plan for managing social infrastructure and evaluating the feasibility of maintenance projects. However, road agencies are experiencing problems due to a lack of deterioration models which are essential to conducting a life cycle cost analysis. Thus, this study developed deterioration models for bridge pavements as the first step to secure the power of execution of the Infrastructure Management Act. The deterioration model subdivided pavement materials into asphalt, conventional concrete, and latex-modified concrete. This study analyzed the data on diagnosis for the last 12 years in Korea by applying the Bayesian Markov Hazard Model. The average life expectancy by pavement type was analyzed as follows: 12.8 years for asphalt pavement; 23.4 years for concrete pavement; and 9.8 years for latex-modified concrete pavement. For the probabilistic life cycle cost analysis and risk management, probability distributions of life expectancy, effective range by confidence level, and Markov transition probability were presented. This study lays a foundation for deterministic and probabilistic life cycle cost analysis of bridge pavement. Future studies need to develop deterioration models standardized for all components of bridges and all types of social infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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25 pages, 3091 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Natural Environment Protection Strategies and Green Management Style: Literature Review

by Letycja Sołoducho-Pelc and Adam Sulich

Sustainability 2022, 14(17), 10595; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141710595 - 25 Aug 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3418

Abstract

The relationships between the Green Management Style (GMS) and Natural Environment Protection Strategies (NEPS) are rarely explored in scientific research. The nature of these relations is not fully explained in management sciences, and although these connections are important determinants for the choice between [...] Read more.

The relationships between the Green Management Style (GMS) and Natural Environment Protection Strategies (NEPS) are rarely explored in scientific research. The nature of these relations is not fully explained in management sciences, and although these connections are important determinants for the choice between temporary and Sustainable Development (SD) in business organizations, they are accompanied by research gaps. The first research gap is recognized qualitatively in the literature review, which indicates the scarcity of theoretical research in the areas of NEPS and the GMS concerning Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs). The second quantitative research gap is dedicated to the rarity of empirical studies among business organizations engaged in NEPS and the GMS’s implementation. The third qualitative research gap lies in the difficulty of translating scientific assumptions from the theoretical background into business practice. This paper aims to present and explore the indicated research gaps and propose a theoretical model of the relationships between the GMS and NEPS. The adopted method used in this article is a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) supported by a bibliometric study performed in VOSviewer software. The results of the present study of relationships between the GMS and NEPS are explained by the Green Integrity Model (GIM). The green integrity between the researched elements can influence organizations’ decision-making processes related to development path directions, social and environmental responsibility, workers’ engagement, strategy communication, and organizational performance. In terms of the relationships between NEPS and the GMS, this can be seen as a part of the manner in which business organizations self-regulate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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21 pages, 2242 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Combination of FDM, DEMATEL, and DANP for Disclosing the Interrelationship of Influencing Factors in Rural Homestay Business: Empirical Evidence from China

by Lei-Yi Peng, Jia Lu, Jian-Ji Luo and Yu-Xuan Wang

Sustainability 2022, 14(16), 10341; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141610341 - 19 Aug 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1920

Abstract

As a rural tourism product, homestays play an essential role in sustainability. The operation of homestay business is directly linked to the success or failure of community-based tourism development. By taking rural homestay business in Zhejiang as a research object, the paper aims [...] Read more.

As a rural tourism product, homestays play an essential role in sustainability. The operation of homestay business is directly linked to the success or failure of community-based tourism development. By taking rural homestay business in Zhejiang as a research object, the paper aims to clarify the interrelationships among influencing factors in the operation of rural homestay business from a performance perspective. Based on multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) techniques, this paper not only constructed the evaluation system of homestay business in the Chinese context by the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM), but also disclosed the interrelationships of criteria and aspects by a decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) and the DEMATEL-based analytical network process (DANP). Results show that: (1) 5 aspects and 31 criteria comprise the evaluation system of homestay business, (2) the aspects and criteria with high global weight are nearly clustered into the effect group, (3) the weight of service quality and homestay geist and community co-prosperity as the rank top two, (4) more than these, hardware facilities construct the product features of homestays because of the role of driving elements, (5) owing to the core elements, criteria about operational efficiency become guiding principles of homestay business, and (6) service quality and integrated utilization of socio-cultural resources underpin the sustainable development of homestay business in the long run. Therefore, the interrelationships of aspects and criteria provide further insights and underline the focus on homestay business for practitioners. At the same time, these serve as an effective administration tool for industry administrations. These will lay a solid foundation to enhance the level of homestay business and boost the sustainable development of community-based tourism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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24 pages, 3852 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating Corporate Environmental Risk Disclosure Using Machine Learning Algorithm

by Mohammad Main Uddin, Md. Mamunar Rashid, Mahmudul Hasan, Md. Alamgir Hossain and Yuantao Fang

Sustainability 2022, 14(16), 10316; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141610316 - 19 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1625

Abstract

The volume of the environmental risk disclosure in the annual reports of firms in the pharmaceutical and chemical, tannery, telecommunications, and paper and printing industries listed on the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) in Bangladesh was analyzed in this paper. The research used a [...] Read more.

The volume of the environmental risk disclosure in the annual reports of firms in the pharmaceutical and chemical, tannery, telecommunications, and paper and printing industries listed on the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) in Bangladesh was analyzed in this paper. The research used a content analysis of the annual reports of 43 companies that represented four DSE sectors. To quantify the level of environmental risk disclosure reporting practiced by corporations in their annual reports, the authors established the ERDIPCI for the pharmaceutical and chemical industry, the ERDITI for the tannery industry, the ERDITeI for the telecommunications industry, and the ERDIPPI for the paper and printing industry. Similarly, the machine learning clustering algorithm, k-means clustering, is used to cluster the companies based on the completion of different environmental indices. It is observed that from four sectors, the highest number of companies from the pharmaceutical and chemical industry disclosed environmental risk disclosures, and the lowest number of companies was from the tannery industry, followed by the telecommunications and the paper and printing industries. The enterprises differ significantly in their environmental risk disclosures, and the overall scenarios of the environmental reporting practices by companies in Bangladesh are quite poor. It also shows that among the 43 companies, a limited number of enterprises are placed first. The majority of the businesses are in the midst of a cluster that reflects the increasing order of indices fulfillment. This paper provided a few specific proposals to the relevant authorities in order to establish a regularity framework in which all the firms listed on the DSE in Bangladesh will be expected to address environmental risk disclosures and conservation actions in their annual reports towards adaptation to climate change and achieving environmental sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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13 pages, 410 KiB

Open AccessArticle

CSR and Long-Term Corporate Performance: The Moderating Effects of Government Subsidies and Peer Firm’s CSR

by Wenli Zhao, Guangyu Ye, Guangyi Xu, Chong Liu, Dandan Deng and Ming Huang

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 5543; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14095543 - 05 May 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2503

Abstract

Effectively carrying out social responsibility is a critical strategy for the sustainable development of enterprises. Under the influence of institutional isomorphism, the relationship between corporate social responsibility and performance will be affected by the level of the peer firm’s social responsibility and government [...] Read more.

Effectively carrying out social responsibility is a critical strategy for the sustainable development of enterprises. Under the influence of institutional isomorphism, the relationship between corporate social responsibility and performance will be affected by the level of the peer firm’s social responsibility and government subsidies. Based on institutional theory, this paper discusses the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate performance, using relevant data from Chinese listed companies. The results show that there is an inverted U-shaped relationship between social responsibility and corporate performance; the peer firm’s CSR and government subsidies weaken the inverted U-shaped relationship between CSR and corporate performance. The results provide useful theoretical insights for the performance of CSR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Management Strategies and Practices)

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