Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth (2805)

This paper presents a novel approach to prognosing European economic crises through the development of an economic–financial risk sensitivity model. The model integrates key macroeconomic indicators such as government deficit (NETGDP), GINI coefficient, social protection expenditure (ExSocP), unemployment rate (UNE), research and development spending (RDGDP), and tax structures (TXSwoSC), assessing their role in predicting economic vulnerability across European countries. By applying the Kruskal–Wallis non-parametric test on data from 324 observations across multiple countries, significant differences were identified in the distribution of these variables. The results show that government policies related to social protection, R&D, and taxation play an important role in a country’s resilience to economic shocks. On the other hand, indicators such as income inequality and unemployment exhibit less variation, reflecting global economic conditions. The model provides a comprehensive risk assessment framework, allowing for the early detection of potential economic crises and guiding policy adjustments to mitigate risks. This methodology offers valuable insights into the sensitivity of European economies to financial disruptions, emphasizing the importance of fiscal policies and social expenditure in maintaining economic stability. Full article

(1) Hidden workers include those who are unemployed or underemployed or discouraged workers. This study analyses the probabilities of becoming a hidden worker between males and females in three age groups (youth, young adults, and mid-life) and identifies the extent to which these factors explain the gender gap among hidden workers in Australia. (2) Using the Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition approach, this study aims to contribute to the discussion by highlighting the impact of gender on the hidden worker population, further illustrating how the explained and unexplained impacts on hidden workers differ between the gender groups. (3) Results: Age not only raises the likelihood of being a hidden worker in both gender groups but also contributes to the widening gender gap among hidden workers, especially those in the child-rearing stage of their life. Human capital, including education, health endowment, and social capital, is negatively associated with the likelihood of being a hidden worker and reduces the gender gap. Childcare responsibilities and other care duties are associated with a greater likelihood of being a hidden worker for females and are among the greatest contributors to the gender gap. Local resources are associated with the likelihood of being a hidden worker and widen the gender gap within the 45–64-year old group. (4) Conclusions: The gender gap among hidden workers is widened by care responsibilities and locally available socio-economic resources. On the other hand, it is narrowed by education, individual health endowment, and social capital. The findings of this study corroborate the fact that a wide extent of the gender gap among hidden workers in Australia is socially and politically produced and is thus potentially avoidable through public policy. Greater attention from researchers and policy makers regarding hidden workers should be devoted to reducing this gender gap to prevent further social implications. Full article

The digital economy is reshaping the employment landscape, playing a crucial role in promoting employment stability and fostering sustainable economic growth. Research has focused mainly on the impact of the digital economy on the employment structure, such as China’s changing employment structure under the influence of the digital economy and the relationships among the digital economy, employment structure and labor share. However, comprehensive research exploring how the digital economy affects employment quality and spatial dynamic evolution is lacking. This study aims to fill this gap. First, we construct a set of digital economy indicator systems containing multiple dimensions and use the entropy-weighted Topsis method to measure the weight of each indicator of the digital economy. Second, using 2013–2022 Chinese interprovincial panel data, we introduce a two-way fixed effects model to verify the hypotheses and cite multiple models to verify the robustness of the results. Additionally, we carry out spatial heterogeneity and dynamic evolution analysis and explore the spatial differences and dynamic evolution process of the impact of the digital economy on employment quality. This study revealed that the digital economy positively influences employment quality. Mechanistic analysis reveals this impact is achieved mainly through improving human capital and increasing salaries. Additionally, the effect of the digital economy on employment quality is regionally differentiated, with the eastern regions having a more developed digital economy and higher employment quality. This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of the digital economy and employment quality, offering empirical insights and policy recommendations for fostering digital economy development and improving employment quality. Full article

The purpose of this study is to examine how tax incentives resulting from the so-called Amazon Law (Law No. 27037) affect small- and medium-sized agro-industrial producers (SMEAPs) in the Junín and Huánuco regions in Peru. This research fills a void that relates to the exclusion of these producers regarding the Law’s incentives that aim to encourage investment in the Amazon. In this study, the research design was non-experimental, and since the data were descriptive–correlational in nature, a structured questionnaire with a Likert scale was used to gauge participants’ opinions about economic progress and tax benefits. The survey participants included 72 co-operatives drawn from a population of 88, and their awareness and use of tax incentives were targeted. SPSS and similar statistical analysis tools were used and showed that there was a positive correlation between tax benefits and economic development, with a correlation coefficient of 0.873, indicating a strong relationship. However, most co-operatives ranked the benefits only as average or poor, with 34.72% rating them as regular and 31.94% as poor. This study indicates that the present laws do not provide these producers with sufficient opportunities for development. The authors suggest that changes to the Law are required to improve the inclusion of small- and medium-sized agricultural producers so that proposals for improvements in their economic development and management of the agricultural lands in the Amazon region can be promoted. Full article

With the rapid development of digital finance, digital financial literacy is becoming increasingly important. This study examines the impact of digital financial literacy on household entrepreneurship and finds that it significantly promotes the occurrence of household entrepreneurship. To address potential endogeneity concerns, the study employs an instrumental variable approach, and the results remain robust after a series of checks. Heterogeneity tests reveal that the effect of digital financial literacy on household entrepreneurship is particularly pronounced in rural areas, underdeveloped regions, and lower-tier cities. Further analysis indicates that digital financial literacy also enhances household entrepreneurial investment levels, with a more significant impact on survival entrepreneurship investments. In mechanism tests, the study shows that access to formal finance partially mediates the relationship between digital financial literacy and household entrepreneurship. Additionally, our research also found that digital financial literacy can promote entrepreneurship among marginalized groups, such as women and individuals with lower levels of education. Our findings offer valuable insights for policymakers aiming to foster sustainable and inclusive development. In line with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, entrepreneurship is recognized as a key driver for achieving sustainable economic growth. Our study emphasizes the importance of promoting entrepreneurship by enhancing digital financial literacy among residents in underdeveloped areas, which is crucial for fostering inclusive growth, creating jobs, and reducing regional disparities, all of which contribute to long-term sustainable development. Full article

This paper examines types of WLB (Work–Life Balance Policies) that have emerged in research in Western countries, and compares their applicability for male and female employees in Arab countries in general, and in Gaza, Palestine in particular. A qualitative study has been undertaken with employees of telecommunication companies, with thematic analysis to identify new kinds of WLB in an Arab culture. The WLB policies identified in the two companies were often quite different from those identified by Western researchers, and were guided by the religious principles of Islam, cultural factors, and the needs and aspirations of female employees. The international investors identified had adapted their policies to meet the cultural requirements of an Arabic society. This paper contributes to debates on the effectiveness of, and the need for culturally adapted WLB policies which try to meet the aspirations of women in developing countries. Additionally, this case study adds a new theoretical base, advocating the importance of WLB policies which are adapted to local cultural conditions in ways which also meet the aspirations of international business models. The WLB practices identified have not been described previously in any detailed study. The WLB policies and practices identified advocate for further research studies focusing on gender differences in the provision and take-up of WLB, using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Full article

Sharing disability-related information with an employer to gain workplace adjustments is a complex process for young people with intellectual and/or psychosocial disabilities. We examined the disclosure experiences of young Australians with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities, their subsequent access to workplace adjustments, and their employment outcomes. Using narrative inquiry, we analysed qualitative data collected from 24 interviews with participants with an intellectual (n = 10) and psychosocial disability (n = 14) between 18 and 25 years old recruited as part of an Australian Government-funded Youth Employment Study. Four main narratives emerged among the participants responses. Positions ranged from their having no control over disclosure experiences to a high level of control resulting in access to workplace adjustments. These positions were impingent on their knowledge of rights and adjustments, previous experiences, workplace context, and self-advocacy capacity. Our study provides unique insights into the employment experiences of young people with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities. The findings may inform initiatives aimed at building their capabilities for disclosure to gain workplace adjustments that can improve their employment outcomes in turn. Full article

This study aims to empirically analyze the direct effects of local government competencies on regional economic revitalization within the broader context of local communities and to investigate the moderating role of social trust in this relationship. Using panel data constructed from the 2012–2019 Seoul Survey provided by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and panel data from South Korea’s National Statistical Office, we employed feasible generalized least squares to account for potential heteroscedasticity and serial correlation. The results demonstrate that local government competencies positively impact regional economic vitality within local communities, with high levels of social trust among residents in these communities further strengthening this positive effect. This study highlights the theoretical importance of integrating resource-based and social capital theories to advance the field of urban regeneration and emphasizes the role of local communities in economic development. The findings suggest that even where local government competencies may be limited, a strong foundation of community social trust within local communities can drive economic revitalization. This underscores the need for central and local governments to actively enhance social trust within communities as a means of fostering sustainable economic growth. Full article

Building on the extant literature and utilizing data from the EU-SILC and the EU-LFS surveys conducted between 2009 and 2023, we empirically investigate the impact of poor employment conditions—associated with insecure or precarious employment—on third-country nationals’ (TCNs’) self-perceived health status (SPH). The role of employment conditions in health is examined by employing indicators of temporary, part-time, and self-employment. Driven by theory and empirical analysis, we also investigate the effects of additional variables, including long-term unemployment. Finally, to probe differences across countries, we examine how the effects of employment conditions on TCNs’ health vary across institutional settings, namely across different types of welfare state. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses of panel data reveal that employment conditions affect immigrants’ SPH and surface significant differences across countries. The estimated country-specific effects point to statistical average differences between Germany and two groups of countries: one showing higher effects (i.e., Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, and France) and another with lower effects (i.e., Greece, Ireland, Italy, and Spain). The welfare model adopted by different countries is a qualitative significant predictor of TCNs’ SPH. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of these findings for future research, but also policy initiatives to improve TCNs’ employment conditions and, consequently, their health and overall well-being. Full article

Social cooperatives, which are an important pillar of the solidarity economy, have become increasingly popular and common in Hungary over the past 10 years, especially in disadvantaged settlements, where the administrative burden of public employment is outsourced to social cooperatives. Analyzing social cooperatives in small villages is a relevant topic for local economic development. Of the 3155 settlements in Hungary, 1162 have a population of less than 500 inhabitants, i.e., small villages. In the spatial structure of Hungary, small villages tend to be located on the periphery, which is both the spatial and socio-economical peripheral position, with mostly disadvantaged inhabitants with low educational attainment and high unemployment. In these settlements, local communities can better understand what hinders and what helps their economies to grow and improve living standards by assessing their economic base. With this new knowledge, local communities can achieve results through strategically designed programs and projects that social cooperatives can join and help achieve. The methodology of the study is field research; we interviewed managers of the social cooperatives to learn about its operations and difficulties. The study described well-run and successful social cooperatives. In small villages, these cooperatives can be an important source of employment, even if the number of people employed is low. The experiences of the field research are presented in the form of recommendations for policymakers, as social cooperatives can be an important instrument of employment policy. Full article

Inflation targeting, a monetary policy framework, is criticized for its narrow mandate of safeguarding price stability only and neglecting other equally important macroeconomic variables. This negligence, according to the critics, might have had a role in the unprecedented, real business-cycle fluctuations observed in the past. Hence, they advocate for mandating central banks with equally emphasizing employment and output growth along with inflation. Theoretical claims aside, the literature does not present any empirical evidence on how to determine whether a central bank adheres to a single or a dual mandate. This study is aimed at filling this gap by analyzing the reaction functions of various central banks, including the ones targeting inflation and the ones with no specific targets. Using the panel data from OECD countries, our findings question the prevalent theoretical misunderstanding in the literature: the central banks with no specific targets (the dual-mandate monetary policy regimes) appear to be targeting the rate of inflation only, whereas the central banks that are thought to have a single-mandate seem to be targeting inflation, output growth, and unemployment. These results are significant, both statistically and economically, and question the baseless criticism of the inflation-targeting regime for neglecting employment and output growth. Full article

The article discusses Pope Francis’s visit to Bahrain in 2022, which, although religiously and politically important, has not yet been exposed to science. This is the second visit of the head of the Catholic Church to the countries of the Persian Gulf, which is part of the refreshing interreligious dialogue between Christians and Muslims. This article analyzes changes in the Catholic Church’s understanding of dialogue with Islam, as illustrated by Pope Francis’s visit to Bahrain. Using comparative analysis, the article highlights the evolving nature of interreligious dialogue and its role in strengthening Muslim–Christian connections. The papal visit to Bahrain caused much controversy among human rights activists. Bahrain is seen, on one hand, as a tolerant and religiously inclusive country, but on the other, as a nation that frequently violates human rights, particularly in cases involving differences among its members. Pope Francis, as a diplomat, was not afraid to talk about some social issues in Bahrain (death penalty, discrimination, labor law) from the beginning of his visit. Pope Francis’s attitude and the benefits of interreligious dialogue that he has generated may not only confirm the presence of Christians in Bahrain but, above all, must change their destiny in the countries of the region that have so far treated this religion as an enemy. This article is an analysis of sources and their systematic review. The authors have focused on the interpretation of Pope Francis’s statements and their reception in the world. Interreligious and intercultural dialogue, as well as interpersonal fraternities, are extremely important in the international policy of the Holy See. Full article

This study explores the relationship between income inequality, economic growth, and unemployment in Greece from 2003 to 2020, encompassing key economic phases: pre-crisis, crisis, memoranda, and post-memoranda. The aim is to analyze how economic growth (logarithm of GDP-LOGGDP) and unemployment influenced income inequality (GINI coefficient) during periods of economic turmoil and recovery. Using linear regression analysis on 18 years of annual data, this study identifies significant relationships between the variables, with diagnostic tests confirming model robustness. The findings reveal a strong positive and statistically significant relationship between LOGGDP and income inequality, indicating that economic growth, without effective redistributive mechanisms, exacerbated disparities. Unemployment had an even stronger positive effect on inequality, highlighting its role in deepening income disparities, particularly during the crisis years marked by economic contraction and austerity measures. These results underline the critical need for balanced economic policies that promote inclusive growth while addressing structural inequalities and labor market vulnerabilities. This study also employs advanced econometric methods, including Vector Autoregression (VAR), Vector Error Correction Model (VECM), and Granger Causality Test, to analyze the dynamics between GDP (LOGGDP), income inequality (GINI), and unemployment. The Granger Test reveals that unemployment Granger-causes GDP with a two-period lag, highlighting the importance of labor market conditions for economic growth, while no direct causal relationship is found between GDP and inequality. These methods provide deeper insights into the short- and long-term interactions, offering valuable guidance for balanced economic policymaking. Full article

The present paper studies the changes that occurred in the clothing trade during the COVID-19 pandemic and the influences exerted on business management. The pandemic sped up digitalization, pushing companies to quickly adapt to new economic conditions and marking a turning point for online commerce. In the fashion sector, where consumer behavior has shifted rapidly and digital technologies have transformed the business landscape, it is essential to examine these changes and their long-term impact. The research methodology involved an online questionnaire-based survey, targeting 153 respondents from various age groups. Descriptive statistics were used, such as the analysis of variation indicators, to explore patterns in the data and provide a clearer understanding of the phenomena studied. Additionally, a series of statistical tests were applied to validate the research questions. The aim was not to predict future behavior but to explain current trends and shifts, particularly the acceleration of digitalization during the pandemic. The findings highlight changes in customer behavior, the need for investments in technology and innovation, and the importance of adaptability, especially in marketing. There is a statistically significant relationship between income levels and spending on clothing, with higher incomes leading to increased expenditure. The pandemic amplified the role of online channels, particularly among higher-income groups. Promotional campaigns significantly impact purchase decisions, especially for lower-income consumers, serving as both purchase drivers and tools for customer retention. The shift toward online shopping, accelerated by the pandemic, highlights substantial growth potential for e-commerce in the fashion sector. Consumers favor platforms offering convenience, product diversity, and personalized experiences. A moderate interest in sustainable fashion was observed, with preferences leaning toward affordable and durable materials, underscoring the need for transparent and eco-friendly business practices. Full article

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Communication Skills Scale (CSS) among Peruvian nurses, as well as the factors associated with job insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We explored five models of confirmatory factor analysis for the CSS and its four subscales and assessed the convergent validity and criterion validity of the scale by analyzing its connection with job insecurity through stepwise multiple regression. We used insights from a focus group for the cultural adaptation of the scale. In the psychometric phase, 225 nurses participated through a virtual survey. Results: The psychometric analysis revealed that the CSS and its subscales have a robust internal structure—similar to the original questionnaire—and are optimally reliable in the Peruvian population. Furthermore, the results show that job insecurity was associated with contract type, communication skills, empathy, and job satisfaction. Conclusions: The CSS and its subscales are valid and reliable to be applied to Peruvian nurses. Initiatives should be undertaken to strengthen communication skills and increase job satisfaction among nursing professionals by improving their working conditions, especially in times of crisis, to reduce job insecurity and promote well-being. Full article

With the burgeoning landscape of new enterprises and business paradigms, industrial and trade enterprises are facing escalating pressure to ensure operational safety. Conventional safety management mechanisms have proven to be inadequate for adapting to the dynamic market demands and intricacies of modern production environments. To improve safety management practices, this study integrates complex network theory to dissect the causal chains underlying accidents in industry and trade enterprises. A network model is established to elucidate the factors contributing to accidents and leverage datasets from safety inspections to construct a repository of latent safety risks. To address deficiencies in extant safety frameworks, a comprehensive safety management evaluation system is formulated, comprising ten primary evaluation indices and 30 secondary metrics. Based on the established frameworks, such as ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety management systems (OHSMS), standardized safety production protocols, and risk hierarchical management and control systems and hidden hazard identification and treatment systems (dual prevention systems), a holistic safety management system (SMS) is synthesized on the basis of system-theoretic accident model and process (STAMP) theory. This systematic approach culminates in a robust framework tailored to modern industrial and trade enterprises, fostering flexibility and efficacy in safety management capabilities. This case analysis underscores the model’s ability to enhance its safety management proficiency, thereby amplifying its relevance in fortifying enterprise operations and fostering sustainable growth. This study represents a pivotal step toward augmenting safety management capacities within the industrial and trade enterprises to safeguard enterprise vitality and advance sustainable business practices. Full article

There have been many discussions about the business ecosystem in order to promote the sustainable growth of firms recently. Business ecosystems have developed independently from three perspectives: business, innovation, and the platform ecosystem. However, considering the emergence of advanced technology and social values, there is a growing need to look at business ecosystems from an integrated point of view. Based on a new win–win platform combining these discussions, we have designed and demonstrated a sustainable business innovation ecosystem (SBIE) framework. Using the triple helix model, data were collected from 290 experts—industry (95), government (100), and university (95)—in Korea. Results show that firms should consider social values as well as economic values when building a SBIE. The findings also emphasize that performances are more effective when core agents of ecosystem build a win–win platform using the fourth industrial revolution (FIR) technology. Full article

The relationship between unemployment and mental disorders has been a significant subject of study since at least the Industrial Revolution. However, most data show associations of unemployment and isolated mental disorders, and this study field has been neglected in the last years. Therefore, this narrative review aims to provide an updated overview of the association between unemployment and mental health in general as well as the most prevalent mental disorders. A literature search was conducted using PubMed with the initial search terms “unemployment” and “mental health”. The identified disorders were then used as search terms for a more in-depth search. Two raters screened abstracts and identified the literature containing relevant information. As a main result, it could be demonstrated that regardless of age and sex, there is still a broad association between unemployment and mental well-being in general (e.g., quality of life measure for example by the General Health Questionnaire), suicide attempts, suicide rates, as well as specific psychiatric disorders (substance use disorder, schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorders, compulsive/obsessive disorders, eating disorders, specific personality disorders, intelligence disorders/impairment, and ADHD). The most significant association was found for affective disorders (depression) and substance use disorders. The association in general was particularly evident for long-term unemployment and mental disorders. Returning to work reduced the prevalence rates of mental disorders significantly. The literature review confirms the results of much older and disease centered studies that unemployment and mental disorders are associated with each other. The main conclusion is that early medical detection and intervention among the mentally ill are as crucial as labor market policy interventions to prevent, avoid, and reduce unemployment. Full article

Youth research has, for decades, focused on examining current societal conditions and their potential shortcomings for young people in areas such as education, income, work, and gender equality. However, it has been less common to integrate planetary boundaries and so-called “overshoot” areas—such as biodiversity loss or climate change—into youth research. This paradigm shift is increasingly necessary, as six out of nine planetary boundaries have already been crossed, and the planet remains on track for approximately 2.7 degrees Celsius (°C) peak warming by 2100. In addition to planetary threats, Morocco faces social challenges, particularly high unemployment. Unemployment is highest among young people aged 15 to 24, reaching 25% over the past decade, nearly double the global youth unemployment rate. This article analyzes a case study we refer to as the “Gardening School” in Morocco, a country facing significant climate stress. It aims to (a) explore new methods for conducting more globally oriented youth research that is ethical and environmentally friendly and (b) examine the wellbeing of young people and their environment, as well as how to support and strengthen both. The findings of this article highlight the potential for youth research to develop new approaches, especially when conducted alongside young people and educational and sustainable environments. These environments enable younger generations to deepen their connection to and understanding of biodiversity, sustainability, and climate change, while learning to use natural resources in a sustainable and ethical manner. This approach ultimately aims to ensure a livable future for the coming generations and foster sustainable employment opportunities. Full article

This study introduces a novel methodology that integrates the Black–Litterman model with Long Short-Term Memory Neural Networks (BL–LSTM). We use predictions from the LSTM as views in the Black–Litterman model. The resulting portfolio performs better than the traditional mean-variance (MV) and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) used as benchmarks. The proposal empowers investors to make more insightful decisions, drawing from a synthesis of historical data and advanced predictive techniques. This methodology is applied to a water market. Investing in the water market allows investors to actively support sustainable water solutions while potentially benefiting from the sector’s growth, contributing to achieving SDG 6. In addition, our modeling allows for companies’ environmental, social, and governance (ESG) scores to be considered in the portfolio construction process. In this case, investors’ decisions take into account companies’ socially responsible behavior in a broad sense, including aspects related to decent work, respect for indigenous communities and diversity, and the absence of corruption, among others. Therefore, this proposal provides investors with a tool for promoting sustainable investment practices. Full article

Using a macro-panel data set from 20 Italian regions, this study explores the relationship between unemployment and fertility in Italy between 2006 and 2018. It contributes to recent literature on this subject by considering gender-specific unemployment measures and examining the influence of two important compositional factors on fertility responses, namely the presence of foreign women and daily childcare coverage, and the influence of both of these on the link between unemployment and fertility. The study reveals a procyclical relationship between unemployment rates, used as a proxy of variations in business cycles, and fertility. Positive influences of foreign women’s contribution and daily childcare coverage on fertility are uncovered, suggesting a potential mitigation effect on declining fertility trends during the period under observation. Full article

This study examines the role of business accelerators in fostering startup performance across diverse entrepreneurial ecosystems, focusing on Romania, the United States, and Italy. Using a cross-country comparative approach, this research investigates how accelerators influence grant utilization efficiency, financial management capabilities, sustainable business practices, and income growth and diversification. The findings reveal that accelerators significantly enhance startups’ financial resource management and revenue growth, with variations across the target countries. In Romania, accelerators address structural barriers and resource constraints, while in the United States, they drive sector-specific innovations within a mature ecosystem. Italy highlights a blend of traditional and emerging industries, with accelerators fostering sustainability initiatives and innovation. This study introduces sustainable business practices and financial management capabilities as mediating factors, developing existing theoretical models. Practical implications for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and investors are outlined, emphasizing personalized business accelerator strategies to address contextual challenges. Full article

This study examines the asymmetrical effects of unemployment and output on inflation in Greece. It applies a nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag model to focus on how positive and negative economic indicator fluctuations impact inflation. The empirical findings indicate an asymmetric and inverse relationship between inflation and unemployment. In the long run, positive shocks to unemployment affect inflation with greater intensity than negative shocks. The short-run trade-off between unemployment and inflation demonstrates linearity, with inflation showing greater sensitivity and a tendency to increase more during periods of economic expansion. Additionally, we find a nonlinear and positive relationship between inflation and output in both the long and short run. In the long run, negative output shocks have a more significant impact on inflation than positive shocks, while in the short run the results are reversed. These findings suggest that policymakers should carefully consider the nonlinearities of the Phillips curve to avoid policy errors in macroeconomic models. Full article

Live e-commerce has proliferated as a new business model in recent years. Live-streaming channel selection strategies and behavioral decisions are critical considerations for retailers to enhance business performance by increasing engagement and profitability. This study introduces the spillover effect between influencer and self-live-streaming channels, offering new theoretical insights into sustainable supply chain management from multichannel retailing, game theory, and spillover effects for channel selection and pricing, optimizing dual-channel tactics for inclusive marketing, and challenging pricing and channel effectiveness beliefs. Hence, inclusive and sustainable business practices in live e-commerce have been examined, focusing on dual-digital-channel strategies involving influencer marketing and self-live-streaming. This paper investigates three digital supply chain structures for sustainability, which are based on influencer characteristics: the single digital channel ($S)$, the dual-digital-channel structure without spillover effect ($D^N$), and the dual-digital-channel structure with spillover effect ($D^S$). This study employs Stackelberg game models to analyze behavioral, pricing, and channel preferences, and it also extends the model to offline channels. This study finds that (a) influencer effort affects influencer live-streaming pricing, which may not always be cheaper than self-streaming digital channels; (b) commission rates significantly impact influencer pricing strategies, leading retailers to use skimming and penetration pricing strategies when commission rates are low and high; and (c) retailers may develop influencer live-streaming channels if the cross-price coefficient is medium and low but prefer it when the coefficient and spillover impact are large. By analyzing how these digital channels contribute to societal sustainability through reduced environmental impact and enhanced social inclusion, this research highlights key marketing decisions that optimize business performance and social responsibility in the digital economy. It offers live e-commerce managers strategic channel selection, pricing, and sustainability advice and recommendations for future empirical validation to enhance practical applicability. Full article

Total factor productivity (TFP) is pivotal to driving sustainable economic growth. This study examines the relationship between fiscal policy uncertainty (FPU) and firms’ TFP with the least squares method. We measure FPU at the provincial level using government work reports from various provinces in China with text analysis and find that a higher degree of FPU is negatively associated with local firms’ TFP. This effect is more significant for firms from regions with lower levels of marketization and government fiscal transparency and those with higher managerial myopia than for other firms. The channel tests show that FPU reduces local firms’ TFP by inhibiting corporate expansionary and research and development investments, and this effect is supported by the intensified financing constraints. Overall, our results suggest that FPU impairs local firms’ production efficiency. Full article

Development zones are crucial spatial carriers driving economic growth and industrial upgrading, playing a key role in China’s development. After years of expansion, these zones face significant challenges in industrial land development and performance enhancement. This paper takes Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP) as a case, which is a model of Sino–Singaporean government cooperation. Using Landsat 4–5 TM data, socioeconomic data, and industrial land use data, spatial analysis and statistical modeling were employed to examine the evolution and phased patterns of industrial land use in SIP from 1994 to 2022. A performance evaluation system encompassing economic benefits, innovation-driven growth, development intensity, green development, and social security was developed to assess land use performance and its responses to spatial transformations. The results reveal that industrial land in SIP experienced a significant change in the intensity of land expansion from 1.031 to 0.352 during 1994–2022, and the peak circle density expanded from 3 km to 15 km. The mean value of the comprehensive performance score during 2017–2022 was 42.18, with the highest economic efficiency (40.54) and a lower innovation capacity (16.98). The development of industrial land in SIP presents the stage characteristics of monocentric polarization, polycentricity, and spatial diffusion toward a generalized development zone, showing significant path dependence, and the difference in the land use performance of different industrial types is obvious. In the future, the optimization and redevelopment of the stock of land should be strengthened to promote the optimization of the spatial layout of technology-intensive industries and the technological upgrading of labor-intensive industries, as well as achieving sustainable economic growth through innovation-driven, green development and enclave economy collaboration. This study provides a reference for the industrial layout and high-quality sustainable development of development zones. Full article

Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic placed an immense burden on nursing home staff, significantly increasing their workload. How the impact of these challenges on job satisfaction is mitigated by personal and social resources, along with organisational support measures initiated by nursing homes, is investigated in this study. Methods: In 2021, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among nursing home staff in Rhineland-Palatinate (n = 373). The questionnaire contained parts of standardised instruments (parts of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ), Brief Resilience Scale) and self-developed questions related to support measures such as training, psychological support and work organisation changes. The association of these support measures, as well as personal and social resources (e.g., resilience, social support, sense of community), with job satisfaction was explored. Descriptive, bivariate and regression analyses were conducted. Results: While various support measures were offered to the nursing home staff, significant gaps remained. Training on hygiene and COVID-19 care was beneficial but not universally available. Similarly, psychological, pastoral and palliative support was lacking for a large portion of nursing home staff. Surprisingly, in the regression analysis, frequent information updates from supervisors were found to be negatively correlated with job satisfaction (p = 0.002). However, some personal and social resources (resilience (p = 0.002), social support (p = 0.001), sense of community at work (p ≤ 0.001), commitment to the workplace (p = 0.019), recognition by management (p ≤ 0.001)), and various support measures (training programmes (p = 0.005), changes in work organisation (p = 0.008), technical measures (p = 0.025)) were positively correlated with job satisfaction. Conclusions: This study highlights that despite the implementation of various support measures for nursing home staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, significant gaps remained. Notably, a substantial portion of staff members lacked access to crucial support services such as psychological, pastoral and palliative care. Furthermore, healthcare facility managers should prioritise the following support measures, especially during crises: comprehensive training, including resilience training; flexible working arrangements; and recognition for nursing staff. Ultimately, healthcare organisations should aim to create a supportive work environment that fosters a sense of community and belonging among their nursing workforce. Full article

This paper investigates the contribution of the various cybersecurity domains to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing the critical role of cybersecurity in advancing sustainable economic growth and resilient IoT infrastructure. The paper also examines specific use cases on how cybersecurity measures and practices can contribute to achieving SDG 8 and SDG 9 focused on decent work and economic growth and industry, innovations, and infrastructure. In the context of SDG 8 the use case of a smart agriculture network was examined, whereas for SDG 9, the use case focuses on a smart factory processing raw materials. An analysis of the prioritization of the several cybersecurity domains following the MoSCoW method is also presented. This paper offers valuable insights and guidance for enhancing corporate resilience and economic benefits in the Internet of Things (IoT) aligning with the SDGs and contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future for the IoT. Full article

Background: Human population has been overexploiting natural resources for many decades. Consumerism drives a strong economy, but at the same time it degrades the environment. The solution is to turn it into sustainable development. In this study, our aim was to determine how the quest for sustainable consumption was perceived in the current scientific literature; Methods: A total of 712 papers from the Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases were investigated. Descriptive statistics and VOSviewer (version 1.6.18.) and Wordcloud software were used for further analysis. The analysis involved investigating publication trends over time, engaged countries and funding agencies, co-authorships, document types, thematic categories, sustainable development goals orientation, and the most frequently occurring words. Results: Word clouds created in the WordArt program based on the titles and abstracts indicated “food” to be the most frequently occurring word. The content of the articles was analyzed based on three term clusters: (1) “food waste”, “waste”, “food security”; (2) “agriculture” and “vertical farming”; and (3) “energy”. Conclusions: Analyzed articles surpassed the European Union, indicating the global range of striving for sustainability. The co-occurrence of the following sustainable development goals (SDGs) was indicated in the study: no. 1 (“no poverty”), no. 2 (“zero hunger”), no. 3 (“good health and well-being”), no. 6 (“clean water and sanitation”), no. 7 (“affordable and clean energy”), no. 8 (“decent work and economic growth”), no. 9 (“industry, innovation and infrastructure”), no. 10 (“reduced inequalities”), no. 12 (“responsible production and consumption”), no. 13 (“climate action”), no. 14 (“life below water”), and no. 15 (“life on land”). Full article

This study examines the relationship between environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, financial reporting quality, and ownership structure in Chinese listed companies, based on a panel dataset of 1841 firm-year observations from 2016 to 2020. Using three types of panel regression analyses, the study finds a positive relationship between ESG performance and financial reporting quality. Notably, this positive relationship between ESG performance and financial reporting quality is evident only for state-owned enterprises (SOEs), while no significant relationship is observed for private firms (non-SOEs). When ESG is disaggregated into its sub-dimensions, environmental performance shows a positive relationship with financial reporting quality in SOEs, while no significant relationship is found for social and governance performance. This study contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on the relationship between ESG practices and financial reporting quality, with a focus on the role of ownership structure in shaping this relationship in an emerging market with government-led sustainability initiatives. The findings reveal significant differences in the integration of ESG considerations into financial reporting based on ownership structure, highlighting the prominent role of SOEs in promoting sustainable business practices and enhancing financial transparency. Full article

Community of practice (CoP) has been seen as a pivotal support for higher education institutions to implement their social responsibilities. Even though this model is widely admired, assessing its effectiveness and sustainability still faces many challenges: (1) the absence of an appropriate index reveals the significance of CoP; (2) the difficulty of realizing quantitative assessment; and (3) the strategies to improve contribution sustainably by considering CoP development. To address these challenges, a comprehensive Higher Education Social Responsibility Contribution Index (HESRCI) is constructed by taking into account the CoP key influence factors. An FBN model is further developed for the purpose of assessing the various corresponding contributions quantitatively and investigating the potential interdependencies between influence factors. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is evidenced by the quantitative indication of CoP’s contributions to priorities. Research findings also highlight the significance of CoP governance, the mechanism of resource allocation, and team development, in particular, in facilitating the synergy between university development and sustainable socio-economic growth. In addition, it provides data support and a theoretical basis for higher education institutions to make more informed decisions when implementing industry-education integration strategies. Full article

This study examines the problem of choosing optimal consumption, investment, early retirement, and effort levels for an economic agent who is unwilling to reduce their consumption over time. The agent’s income depends on a fixed wage rate, and varies proportionally with their level of effort, which incurs disutility due to labor. By applying the dual-martingale method, we reformulate the problem into its dual form, dividing it into two distinct sub-problems: one focuses on selecting a consumption path that does not decrease, while the other determines the optimal timing for early retirement. Using this method, we find optimal strategies in the form of explicit closed-form solutions. Full article

Earnings management is a widespread phenomenon in practice, with researchers therefore focusing on trying to understand what motives and factors lead to companies engaging in earnings management. In addition to internal financial and macroeconomic factors, the influence of institutional factors including corporate social responsibility (CSR) has been widely studied in recent years. In Lithuania, there have been no studies on the manipulation of accounting information in socially responsible companies. Therefore, this study aims to identify the impact of CSR on the application of earnings management in the context of internal financial and macroeconomic factors. The results of this study are significant as they not only enable assessing the impact of social responsibility on the application of earnings management in Lithuanian companies, but also the influence of macroeconomic factors such as the gross domestic product (GDP), inflation, foreign direct investment (FDI), average wages, and unemployment, as well as internal financial factors such as leverage, returns on assets (RoA), and the profitability of EBIT. The results show that CSR reduces the use of earnings management, regardless of whether it is accrual-based or real earnings management. Additionally, this analysis demonstrates that, among the internal financial factors, leverage carries the most substantial influence. The higher a company’s leverage, the more inclined that company is to use earnings management. Exploring the impact of macroeconomic indicators, it was found that the GDP, inflation, and unemployment rate have a statistically significant impact on the use of earnings management, albeit only if the firm uses accrual-based earnings management and adopts a profit-enhancing strategy. Full article

The employment situation for college students has worsened due to the increase in the number of graduates and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy. Consequently, the pressure to find employment has also increased, particularly for rural college students. Drawing on the Psychology of Working Theory (PWT), the present study was performed to examine the applicability of some proposed pathways in the PWT and test the relationships between family atmosphere and school climate and work volition, career adaptability, and future decent work perception within 946 rural college students (243 men and 703 women; Mage = 19.86, SD = 1.48). The study employed a cross-sectional research design, and structural equation modeling (SEM) was used. Results indicated that family atmosphere and school climate significantly positively predict work volition, career adaptability and future decent work perception. Work volition significantly predicts career adaptability and future decent work perception. Moreover, our findings supported the mediating effect of work volition, indicating that family atmosphere and school climate increased career adaptability and future decent work perception by improving work volition. Although this study has limitations, it informs future studies by highlighting the important role of family atmosphere, school climate, and work volition. Full article

This paper investigates the relationship between sustainable entrepreneurship and financial inclusion, financial literacy, and entrepreneurial orientation. As sustainable entrepreneurship gains academic and practical interest, understanding factors that enable entrepreneurs to operate sustainably is fundamental. The manuscript uses an electronic questionnaire distributed to key economic stakeholders and performs partial least squares structural equation modeling on data from 169 respondents. The results show that entrepreneurial orientation has a positive and significant impact on sustainable entrepreneurship, with a beta coefficient of 0.878 and a probability value of less than 0.01. Financial literacy significantly influences sustainable entrepreneurship, with a beta coefficient of 0.389 and a probability value of less than 0.001, and it partially mediates its relationship with financial inclusion, showing a beta coefficient of 0.3 and a probability value of 0.013. Financial literacy and financial inclusion are positively correlated, with a beta coefficient of 0.771 and a probability value of less than 0.05. However, the impact of financial inclusion on sustainable entrepreneurship is negative and insignificant, with a beta coefficient of −0.392, and there is no evidence that entrepreneurial orientation moderates the link between financial literacy and sustainable entrepreneurship. The findings provide valuable insights for Moroccan policymakers to promote entrepreneurship, suggesting that financial literacy plays a crucial role in enhancing sustainable business practices. The study emphasizes the need for Morocco to adapt to current programs and create a supportive financial environment for entrepreneurs. Due to a lack of comprehensive datasets, the study’s conclusions are limited and might not accurately reflect the entire landscape. Full article

This study investigated the impact of China’s agricultural subsidy policy on farmers’ commercial production, indicated by sales market participation. A nationally representative survey data, panel Tobit model, IV Tobit model, and the Correlated Random Effects (CRE) approach were used. The findings reveal that farmers receiving agricultural subsidies have improved crop sales’ share of total output value. Mechanism analysis reveals that agricultural subsidies have driven up farmland scale and increased agricultural labor supply in production, incentivizing the motive for profit maximization among farmers. Meanwhile, agricultural subsidies also encourage farmers to cultivate more grain crops. Policymakers should continue deepening the reform of agricultural subsidies and promoting farmer specialization and commercial production. Moderate-scale operation of farmland should be one of the targets of agricultural subsidies. Full article

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not only revolutionizing digital marketing through personalized customer experiences and optimized advertising strategies, but it is also contributing to sustainability initiatives. As AI reshapes digital marketing, its impact on sustainability is becoming increasingly significant. This dynamic highlights the necessity of exploring how AI can be utilized to foster more sustainable marketing practices. This study seeks to answer the pivotal question: “How does AI impact the sustainability of digital marketing?” A systematic literature review was conducted in this study, following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework to identify various relevant articles in the areas of sustainability and marketing. Furthermore, this study examines the crucial role of AI in enhancing sustainable business practices, highlighting a significant increase in adoption among enterprises. The findings demonstrate that the effective integration of AI into digital marketing enhances environmental sustainability, supports the attainment of economic sustainability objectives, and contributes positively to social sustainability outcomes. This study contributes to the field by providing a comprehensive analysis of the intersection between AI and sustainable marketing practices and offers valuable insights for marketers, businesses, and policymakers. Full article

As the global demand for minerals critical to clean energy and technological innovation continues to rise, the sustainable exploitation of mineral resources in high-altitude regions becomes increasingly essential for global sustainable development. Employing SWOT analysis, deep learning, and heatmap techniques, this study delves into the mineral resource policies of China, the United States, Canada, and Chile, assessing their alignment with and impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite distinct policy frameworks, a shared focus on technological innovation and environmental sustainability is evident. China’s strategic resource allocation and stringent regulations drive a green, low-carbon shift, aligning with SDG 13 (Climate Action). The United States fosters SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through market-driven technological advancements. Canada’s collaborative approach, emphasizing indigenous rights, underpins SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Chile’s national governance and international collaboration mix bolsters the mining industry’s efficiency and sustainability, supporting SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy). The study underscores a trend toward sustainable practices in mineral resource management and stresses the critical need for international cooperation. The study advocates for global collaboration and sharing of green mining technologies to accelerate the industry’s transition to a sustainable and responsible future and boost SDG achievements worldwide. Full article

The environmental protection tax (EPT) implemented in 2018 is a significant measure in China’s tax system reform, providing a valuable opportunity to encourage green development, promote resource conservation, and advance sustainable growth. This study, based on panel data from Chinese prefecture-level cities between 2006 and 2021, uses the 2018 EPT as a quasi-natural experiment and applies the difference-in-differences (DID) model to empirically examine the impact of the EPT on urban energy efficiency. The results show that the EPT effectively enhances urban energy efficiency. Strengthening environmental law enforcement and promoting technological innovation are identified as key pathways to improving energy efficiency. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that the reform has a more significant impact on energy efficiency in southern cities compared to northern cities, and the effect is more pronounced in large cities than in smaller ones. This study enriches the existing literature on EPT and the application of institutional theory, providing empirical evidence for the effectiveness of the reform, highlighting the importance of enhancing local government environmental enforcement, and promoting technological innovation in improving energy efficiency. It offers valuable theoretical and practical guidance for policymakers, contributing to the low-carbon transition and the achievement of sustainable economic growth. Full article

Nowadays, we are heading towards global decarbonisation, with each sector involved contributing partial solutions to the problem, without realising that an overall vision is necessary. Photovoltaics emerged as a technology that requires a lot of surface area, which is why it has been integrated into buildings and other human infrastructures (BPVI). The effects of the implementation of AVS on an island have been analysed, observing the territory’s energy use, population, and social and topographical realities, collecting all the peculiarities that could be affected by a massive implementation of this technology. The method to be followed is a SWOT and TOWS analysis, widely employed in all types of scientific studies. The increase in the island’s resilience has been assessed, as has its decreasing its dependence on the outside. In this case, it has been observed that conventional PV is currently being installed on agricultural land to decarbonise electricity production, which mostly relies on oil and does not consider that the island is a territory with a high food dependence on the outside; a high unemployment rate; a high factor of soil desertification, meaning fires are frequent; a high rate of abandonment of agricultural land; and a shortage of flat land. Therefore, we affirm that the island’s carbon footprint will increase by not taking all these factors into account. In addition to punishing the local economy by destroying fertile soil, local food and jobs, the current method of energy production increases the need for subsidies to import food products from abroad. In addition, we claim that the use of AVS reduces the water needs of the crop, which is relevant on an island with great water scarcity. It is concluded that 11 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals would be improved with the use of agrovoltaic technology. Full article

Marine strategy requires a high level of understanding of the interrelationships and processes occurring between the various social and ecological systems that coexist in the same environment, given the high degree of complexity of such a system. Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) is a process for implementing ecosystem-based management in the marine and coastal environment, expressing the ambitious goal of protecting the natural capital of the oceans and promoting sustainable economic growth in the maritime sectors from a holistic perspective. One of the main challenges in MSP is to identify methods and tools for integrated assessments of socio-economic aspects with physical and environmental variables, attempting to assess the economic costs and benefits of a plan and to detect a cause-and-effect relationship between MSP and the performance of the blue economy. Depending on the specific features of areas where planning takes place and the objectives of the assessment, there is a wide spectrum of different approaches and tools that allow the assessment of the economic impact of MSP with varying levels of precision and detail. The objective of this paper is to present a comprehensive analytical framework that will facilitate the understanding of, and development of, appropriate socio-economic instruments and analyses for estimating the economic effects associated with MSP. A comprehensive information base will be constructed based on the findings of studies and analyses conducted by research institutions and relevant national and international organizations. This is intended to identify the principal characteristics, scope, strengths, and weaknesses of decision-support tools in order to identify best practices for measuring socio-economic impacts of management plans and to facilitate a holistic view of marine ecosystems. Full article

Natural disasters have a widespread impact globally, often posing significant challenges to sustainable development in affected regions. Effective disaster recovery requires coordinated efforts from various stakeholders; however, this process is frequently hindered by inadequate resources and policies. Consequently, a thorough exploration of resource- and policy-related barriers is essential for sustainable recovery. This study aims to identify and prioritize resource and policy barriers (RPBs) that hamper the ongoing post-flood recovery process in Pakistan. Twenty-eight barriers were selected through an extensive literature review and further classified into five categories: human, financial, infrastructure, technological, and policy and governance. The fermatean fuzzy analytical hierarchical process (FF-AHP) was used to determine the weights of the selected barriers and prioritize them according to their local and global weights. The results reveal that financial resource barriers are the most important category, while low income of households, lack of appropriate disaster management policies, and unemployment are the top three barriers that significantly affect the post-disaster recovery process. Additionally, the study provides a comparative analysis to highlight the effectiveness of the proposed model over the spherical fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (SF-AHP). The study’s findings can provide valuable insights for decision-makers, assisting them in identifying critical challenges and implementing effective recovery strategies for sustainable development. Full article

The proper allocation of corporate capital is critical to sustainable business development, and misallocation of resources can impede sustainable economic growth and competitive markets. This study investigates the relationship between market power and capital misallocation in Chinese A-share listed companies, with a novel focus on the mediating role of total factor productivity (TFP). Using a comprehensive dataset of 20,818 firm-year observations from 2009 to 2021, we employ linear regression analysis to elucidate the mechanisms through which market power influences capital allocation efficiency. The results reveal a significant positive correlation between market power and capital misallocation, with TFP partially mediating this relationship. Specifically, a one-unit increase in the market power index is associated with a 1.106 unit decrease in TFP, and a 0.028 unit increase in the capital misallocation, indicating potential threats to long-term sustainability. This effect is more pronounced in non-state-owned enterprises, firms located in eastern regions, and those without shareholdings in financial institutions. These results contribute to the literature on market structure and resource allocation by providing empirical evidence of the detrimental effects of market power on capital allocation efficiency, operating through the channel of reduced productivity. Our findings have important implications for policymakers and firm managers, suggesting the need for targeted antitrust measures, promotion of market competition, and strategies to enhance TFP. This research advances our understanding of the complex interplay between market power, productivity, and capital allocation in emerging economies, offering valuable insights for addressing market failures, improving allocative efficiency and actively promoting sustainable business and sustainable socio-economic development in the Chinese context. Full article

The study evaluates the socioeconomic dynamics and their impact on life expectancy in coal mining communities in Colombia, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), assessing the relationship between production, occupation, accident rates, mortality and royalties. Univariate, bivariate, path analysis and ARIMA models were used to identify patterns and projections. The results show a positive constraint between coal production and royalties, which is negative with the occupation, accident, and mortality rates. Despite the revenues generated, no improvements in the quality of life of mining communities are observed; the poor use of royalties reflects a lack of effective strategies to convert mining revenues into sustainable enhancements for local communities. It highlights the rush for more effective public policies to ensure that economic benefits are aligned with improvements in communities’ health, safety and quality of life. In the future, greater alignment with the SDGs, particularly SDG 3 (Health and Well-being) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), will depend on a sustainable approach that prioritises investment in social infrastructure and the equitable distribution of resources derived from mining, thereby addressing current disparities. Full article

Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly advanced, increasingly showcasing its powerful learning and computational capabilities. This progress has resulted in significant breakthroughs in areas such as image processing, speech recognition, and autonomous driving. Scientists predict that by around 2045, AI will overcome existing technological barriers, allowing strong AI to surpass human intelligence. However, it will inevitably affect human social relationships and order. Ethical issues associated with AI technology, such as unemployment, privacy breaches, and discrimination, generate a sense of threat among people, resulting in a loss of confidence in AI, which hampers its sustainable progress. Therefore, AI ethical issues are not only significant topics in academia but also become critical concerns for individuals, society, and nations. This article aims to address the challenges of AI ethics safety and the erosion of human confidence, while promoting the sustainable development of AI. It presents an AI ethics safety framework that analyzes engineering ethics and human trust within the context of sustainable AI development, and it recommends governance methods and strategies informed by case studies. Furthermore, we propose evaluation criteria and methods, establishing early-warning thresholds to keep potential AI risks within acceptable limits. Finally, the future prospects for AI ethics safety are highlighted. We hope our research contributes to the sustainable development of AI, ensuring that the arrival of the AI singularity has a positive impact on society with a long-term harmonious coexistence between AI and humanity. Full article

Effective rural solid waste management (RSWM) is crucial for sustainable rural development, particularly in developing countries, which face dual challenges from economic growth and environmental protection. To build a more sustainable business model for RSWM, this study employs a value proposition analysis approach to systematically analyze the multi-level requirements of various stakeholders involved in the current models of RSWM. It then proposes a novel optimizing approach for RSWM models from the perspective of business model innovation (BMI) by integrating the value proposition (VP) theory with the algorithm of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to fill the research gap. In this study, an AHP-based evaluating algorithm is firstly proposed based on the viewpoints of multiple stakeholders’ value propositions. Using this method, four typical pilot RSWM models across China are assessed and ranked, followed by a comprehensive analysis of the results and the incorporation of hierarchical criteria from multiple value dimensions. Building on the analysis of the results, optimization strategies for a novel RSWM model are proposed by constructing a conceptual framework of the business model. In addition, the analysis also indicates that both phases of sorting and collection and transportation are the main factors for fulfilling the overall satisfaction of the RSWM models. Lastly, this paper concludes by summarizing the relevant theoretical and managerial implementations of the proposed approach, providing a foundation for the scientific development of appropriate RSWM models by providing a new idea for BMI especially for environmental management projects that include multiple stakeholders. Full article

In the context of energy storage systems, optimizing the life cycle of power converters is crucial for reducing costs, making informed decisions, and ensuring sustainability. This study presents a comprehensive methodology for calculating the life cycle cost (LCC) of power converters, employing a nine-step process that integrates digitalization, Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, and the Asset Health Index (AHI). The methodology adapts the Woodward model to provide a detailed cost analysis, encompassing the acquisition, operation, maintenance, and end-of-life phases. Our findings reveal significant insights into asset management, highlighting the importance of preventive and major maintenance in controlling failure rates and extending asset life. This study concludes that adopting sustainable business models and leveraging advanced technologies can enhance the reliability and maintainability of power converters, ultimately leading to more competitive and environmentally friendly energy storage solutions. Full article

This study investigates the impact of energy intensity and CO₂ emissions on economic growth in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, aiming to understand the interplay between energy consumption, environmental sustainability, and economic performance. We analyze data from 1990 to 2023 across six GCC countries. The study employs the fixed effects model, random effects model, and pooled regression model to examine the relationships between energy intensity, CO₂ emissions, and GDP growth, controlling for factors such as foreign direct investment, trade openness, population, unemployment, and urbanization. Our findings reveal a significant negative impact of energy intensity on economic growth, and an increase in energy intensity is associated with a decrease of approximately 0.2969 units in GDP, indicating that higher energy consumption per unit of output hinders economic performance. While CO₂ emissions positively affect growth in GCC countries, a one-unit increase in CO₂ emissions is associated with an increase of approximately 0.3961 units in GDP. The study emphasizes the necessity for GCC countries to adopt sustainable energy practices to reduce energy intensity and boost economic growth. By aligning economic strategies with environmental sustainability goals, these nations can achieve long-term growth while effectively addressing the challenges of climate change. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable development in the region and underscores the importance of harmonizing economic growth strategies with environmental objectives. Full article

Background/Objectives: Evidence-based information is crucial for policymakers and providers of mental health and psychosocial services (MHPSS) for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC). However, there is a scarcity of national-level studies investigating the MHPSS needs of UASC and how these are addressed in Greece. The research objectives of this study were to explore: (a) the psychosocial and mental health needs of UASC living in Greek long-term accommodation facilities as perceived by MHPSS providers, and (b) the range of services across the country, highlighting gaps and best practices in service delivery. Method: An exploratory, predominantly quantitative design was adopted to map UASC’s psychosocial difficulties, mental health problems, and MHPSS delivery. Purposive sampling was implemented, with 16 of 17 NGOs operating long-term accommodation facilities for UASC and 16 child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) participating. The sample included 79 participants (34 facility coordinators, 28 field psychologists, and 16 CAMHS directors). A 5-W mapping tool (Who, Where, What, When, and Which) was used for data collection, through an online survey. Data analysis involved quantitative and qualitative methods (content analysis). Results: Of 798 minors, almost 59% showed signs of behavioral or emotional disturbance, with over half referred for psychiatric assessment and 27.7% needing inpatient care. Aggression, disruptive behaviors, self-harm, and suicidal ideation were the most challenging issues. CAMHS directors reported a high rate of crisis-driven responses, with 42.1% of UASC needing emergency psychiatric evaluation. Psychosocial support was hindered by communication difficulties, lack of a shared care philosophy, understaffing, job insecurity, and limited resources. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the mental health needs of UASC, and the challenges faced by facility coordinators, psychologists, and community mental health specialists. Future research should focus on the institutional and organizational factors influencing service delivery to improve support for UASC. Full article

Objectives: Whiplash trauma is a worldwide significant public health issue, with post-collision chronic pain and physical and mental disability; the prevalence of whiplash trauma in the Japanese general population is estimated at 1.2% and in the Danish general population the whiplash condition has been reported to be 2.9%. Pre-collision welfare benefits and illness perceptions have been found to predict poor recovery after whiplash trauma. In this study, we examined whether illness perceptions measured shortly post-collision moderated the effect of welfare benefits five years before the collision on neck pain and neck-related disability one-year post-collision. Methods: Patients consulting emergency rooms or general practices with neck pain after acute whiplash trauma were invited to complete questionnaires during the week after the collision and at three and 12-months post-collision. Further, we obtained register data on the number of weeks on three types of welfare benefits (sick leave benefits, unemployment benefits, and social assistance benefits) for a five-year period before the collision. Multiple logistic regression was applied. Results: 740 patients were included. We did not find a significant moderating effect of illness perceptions on the association between pre-collision welfare benefits and chronic neck pain and related disability. However, there was a trend towards illness perceptions at baseline and at the three-month follow-up having a moderating effect on the relationship between long-term sick leave and neck pain one year after the whiplash collision. Conclusions: Regarding long-term sick leave, we might have overlooked a substantial moderating effect due to methodological matters and recommend a replication of this study on a larger sample, also focusing on other recovery outcomes. Full article