Search Results (160)

International tourism has helped numerous economies and regions over the years in achieving the objective of long-term sustainable economic growth. The “Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)” is the rising hub for international tourism due to its rich history, rich vibrant culture, pleasant weather conditions, and beautiful landscape. However, research evidence about the tourism-growth relationship in the context of ASEAN economies is indeed very scarce. Accordingly, this research paper focuses on the members of the ASEAN region to examine the true influence that international tourism has on economic growth. Relevant econometric technique such as the “Fixed Effects (FEF)” is chosen for analysis based on the Hausman test, “Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS)” is used for robustness, and “Two Stages Least Squares (2SLS)” is employed for tackling the likely endogeneity issue. The results show that international tourism has contributed positively to the economic growth of the ASEAN economies. Similarly, openness to global trade and education have also helped the ASEAN economies in securing long run sustainable economic growth. Lastly, the inflation rate has decelerated the pace of economic growth, while government expenditures have accelerated the pace of economic growth among ASEAN members. Our empirical findings are robust to alternative model specifications and alternative econometric estimations. Therefore, we expect our empirical findings to help the policymakers of the ASEAN economies in developing suitable policy responses regarding the growth performance of their economies through the channel of international tourism. Full article

This study develops and empirically validates a framework integrating cultural factors into sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) for emerging economies. We introduce the Cultural Affinity Index (CAI), a multi-dimensional construct quantifying cultural compatibility between supply chain partners based on language compatibility, regional trust, trade networks, and historical trade patterns. Using publicly available data from UN COMTRADE, the World Bank, and Hofstede Insights, we analyze 850 supplier–manufacturer dyads across five Southeast Asian countries (2019–2023). Through Monte Carlo simulation with empirically calibrated parameters, we demonstrate that high cultural affinity (CAI > 0.7) shows positive associations with economic performance (+18.0%), environmental compliance (+12%), and social sustainability (+32%) compared to baseline scenarios. We test both linear and interaction models, finding that language compatibility and regional trust exhibit synergistic effects ($\beta$ = 0.15, p < 0.01). Multi-objective optimization reveals Pareto-optimal solutions achieving simultaneous improvements across all triple bottom line dimensions. Sensitivity analysis confirms robustness across varying cultural weights (±20%) and institutional contexts. The framework’s effectiveness varies by institutional quality, with stronger associations in weaker institutional environments (correlation = −0.92). While focused on manufacturing, we discuss adaptations for service sectors. This research provides both theoretical contributions to the SSCM literature and practical tools for organizations managing culturally diverse supply chains in emerging markets. Full article

Agricultural transformation is vital to sustainable development, allowing food security to be reconciled with environmental sustainability. However, the complex interplay between agricultural modernization and environmental systems, particularly the role of economic drivers, remains insufficiently understood. This study addresses this gap by analyzing the Fujian Province, a representative hilly region in southern China, during the period 2005–2021. We construct a comprehensive agricultural transformation evaluation index based on the “elements, structure, and function” framework and apply a modified coupling coordination model. Using random-effects and moderation-effect models, we assess the impact of agricultural productive services on this coordination and investigate the moderating role of agricultural industrial agglomeration. Our analysis identifies four distinct types of agricultural transformation in Fujian and shows that the overall coupling coordination degree improved steadily, rising from low to basic coordination over the study period. Agricultural productive services significantly enhance coordination, although their effects vary across transformation types. In addition, agricultural industrial agglomeration amplifies the positive influence of productive services, indicating a synergistic mechanism that supports sustainable agricultural development. These findings provide policy-relevant insights for East Asian economies with similar land endowments as well as for hilly regions worldwide. Full article

Marine plastic pollution has become a critical transboundary environmental issue, particularly affecting coastal regions with insufficient waste management infrastructure. This study applies a modified Lagrangian hydrodynamic model, TrackMPD v.1, to simulate the movement and accumulation of macroplastics in the West Africa Coastal Area. The research investigates three case studies: (1) the Liberia–Gulf of Guinea region, (2) the Mauritania–Gulf of Guinea coastal stretch, (3) the Cape Verde, Mauritania, and Senegal regions. Using both forward and backward simulations, macroplastics’ trajectories were tracked to identify key sources and accumulation hotspots. The findings highlight the cross-border nature of marine litter, with plastic debris transported far from its source due to ocean currents. The Gulf of Guinea emerges as a major accumulation zone, heavily impacted by plastic pollution originating from West African rivers. Interesting connections were found between velocities and directions of the plastic debris and some of the characteristics of the West African Monson climatic system (WAM) that dominates the area. Backward modelling reveals that macroplastics beached in Cape Verde largely originate from the Arguin Basin (Mauritania), an area influenced by fishing activities and offshore oil and gas operations. Results are visualized through point tracking, density, and beaching maps, providing insights into plastic distribution and accumulation patterns. The study underscores the need for regional cooperation and integrated monitoring approaches, including remote sensing and in situ surveys, to enhance mitigation strategies. Future work will explore 3D simulations, incorporating degradation processes, biofouling, and sinking dynamics to improve the representation of plastic behaviour in marine environments. This research is conducted within the Global Development Assistance (GDA) Agile Information Development (AID) Marine Environment and Blue Economy initiative, funded by the European Space Agency (ESA) in collaboration with the Asian. Development Bank and the World Bank. The outcomes provide actionable insights for policymakers, researchers, and environmental managers aiming to combat marine plastic pollution and safeguard marine biodiversity. Full article

Nepal, like its South Asian neighbours, is exploring Circular Economy (CE) as a pathway to Green Economy and Net Zero commitments. Current studies focus primarily on sector-specific 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) waste management strategies. However, these approaches overlook the broader sustainability transformation implied by a Sustainable Circular Economy (SCE). This study examines whether a locally relevant SCE model is feasible for Nepal. We conducted thematic analysis of interviews with thirteen representatives from nine CE organizations, supplemented by a literature review. Our findings reveal that while most SCE elements exist individually in Nepal’s context, integration into a comprehensive socially inclusive framework remains underdeveloped. We propose a Nepal-specific SCE framework that could challenge conventional industrial development trajectories focused solely on growth. The authors believe that this Nepal case study has valuable lessons for other developing countries pursuing CE as a strategy, as it suggests that a wider SCE scope is necessary to achieve inclusive development. Full article

In Central Asian countries (CACs) atmosphere pollution is increasing due to population growth, economic growth, agricultural development, energy consumption and climate change. The countries of the region developed climate change adaptation strategies—Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). At the same time, regional integration, which should be a necessary condition for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the solving of general environmental problems, is not involved. This article shows the importance of a comprehensive analysis of greenhouse gas (GHG) and non-greenhouse emissions into the atmosphere for the entire Central Asian region as a single ecosystem. The energy intensity of national economies structure was chosen as the main factor determining the level of pollution. The analysis shows that over the past 30 years, the main part of the commodity exports (73.6–81.4%) of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan has been fossil natural resources. There is a strong economic dependence on coal and other types of fuel, which leads to atmospheric emissions. The analysis shows that limited financial resources, lack of effective systemic monitoring and control of air quality that meets modern international requirements and standards, leads to absence of tangible changes in practice yet. Over 30 years in CACs, the share of CO₂ emissions associated with fuel combustion has not decreased and amounts to 78%. The key mechanisms for reducing atmospheric emissions are significantly increase investments in the transformation of the economies in the context of regional development, interstate cooperation, the introduction of environmental norms, standards harmonized with world ones, green technologies based on alternative energy, sustainable transport and logistics infrastructure. Full article

Our research explores the dynamic relationship between CO₂ emissions and four major influencing factors: foreign direct investment (FDI), economic growth (GDP), renewable energy consumption (REN) and population (POP) in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and three large Asian countries—China, India and Pakistan, collectively referred to as LACs (larger Asian countries), from 1990 to 2022. The study has three main objectives: (1) to assess the short-run and long-run effects of GDP, FDI, REN and POP on CO₂ emissions; (2) to compare the adjustment speeds and environmental policy responsiveness between ASEAN and LAC regions; and (3) to evaluate the role of renewable energy in mitigating environmental degradation. Against the backdrop of increasing environmental challenges and divergent development paths in Asia, this research contributes to the literature by applying a dynamic heterogeneous panel autoregressive distributed lag (panel ARDL) model. Unlike traditional static panel models, the panel ARDL model captures both long-run equilibrium relationships and short-run adjustments, allowing for country-specific dynamics. The results reveal a significant long-run cointegration among the variables. The error correction term (ECT) indicates a faster adjustment to equilibrium in LACs (−1.18) than ASEAN (−0.37), suggesting LACs respond more swiftly to long-run disequilibria in emissions-related dynamics. This may reflect more responsive policy mechanisms, stronger institutional capacities or more aggressive environmental interventions in LACs. In contrast, the slower adjustment in ASEAN highlights potential structural rigidities or delays in implementing effective policy responses, emphasizing the need for enhanced regulatory frameworks and targeted climate strategies to improve policy intervention efficiency. Results show that GDP and FDI increase emissions in both regions, while REN reduces them. POP is insignificant in ASEAN but increases emissions in LACs. These results provide insights into the relative effectiveness of policy instruments in accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy, highlighting the need for differentiated strategies that align with each country’s institutional capacity, development stage and energy structure. Full article

Startups are essential to solving contemporary global financial and social challenges. The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic review of the literature on the economic, environmental, and social values of sustainability in startups. Research papers that included the terms “sustainability in startups”, “sustainability of entrepreneurship”, “environmentally friendly new businesses”, “startups”, “entrepreneur”, “sustainable development”, “green economy”, “green investment”, “green development”, “financial sustainability”, “entrepreneurship performance”, and “agriculture entrepreneurship” were considered for analysis. The PRISMA 2020 protocol was used for the screening of relevant articles addressing economic, environmental, and social sustainability in startups. This study is limited to 42 research papers extracted from SCOPUS and DOAJ databases covering the period 2010 to 2024. Most of these provide literature on European, American, and Asian countries, indicating that startups prioritise the economic value of sustainability. However, the review of the literature demonstrates that startups are beginning to adopt a more balanced approach to sustainability as all three pillars addressing economic, environmental, and social values are represented. Sustainable practices improve startups’ performance. There is a need for active research in startup sustainability in the African context to address the research gap identified in the analysis of the literature. Full article

The Export-Led Growth Hypothesis (ELGH) posits that expanding exports drive long-run economic growth. While this has held true for several Asian economies, its effectiveness across African regional blocs remains underexplored. This study investigates the validity of ELGH in the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC), assessing whether exports significantly contribute to economic growth in these regions. The analysis covers 22 EAC and SADC economies from 1990 to 2022—regions marked by structural transformation efforts, trade liberalisation, and participation in the AfCFTA. A dynamic panel data model based on an augmented Cobb-Douglas production function is estimated using the System Generalised Method of Moments (System GMM) to address endogeneity and reverse causality. Granger causality tests supplement the analysis. Exports and technology significantly enhance GDP growth, while labour and FDI are statistically insignificant. Trade openness negatively affects growth, suggesting vulnerability to external shocks. A bidirectional Granger causality exists between exports and GDP. This study offers the first dynamic, bloc-level empirical evaluation of ELGH across EAC and SADC, incorporating trade-related interactions. Findings affirm ELGH’s relevance and stress the need for export diversification, technological upgrading, and institutional reform for sustained growth in Africa. Full article

This study investigates the moderating role of independent directors on corporate boards in raising the ESG reporting for non-financial listed firms in Pakistan to strive for a greener revolution around the economy. A sample of 369 firms listed and operated on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) for a period covering 2012–2023 (both inclusive) have been taken out of a target population of 456 non-financial listed firms. The results are investigated using bivariate, multiple, and hierarchical regression analyses. This study has significant findings in the context of Pakistan and can be generalized to struggling economies around the globe. The interventional role of independent directors has significant findings for the full model. Findings from the Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy Score (CSRSS) are inconclusive irrespective of the measurement method used, i.e., environmental innovation score (EIS) or environmental pillar score (EPS). Environmental, Social, Governance Score (ESGS) has revealed a positive and significant impact when EIS is used as a performance variable, whereas when EPS is taken as a performance measure, the results are significant and negative. Under the lens of stakeholders’ theory, upper echelon theory, and agency theory, this study contributes to the corporate governance domain and the literature on environmental improvisation and ESG reporting. Researchers, statutory authorities, and academicians can benefit from it. The vital role of independent directors is the key to developing economies to strive for a sustained greener environment. This study is the first in the Asian and, specifically, Pakistani context to take on the interventional role of independent directors in promoting ESG reporting requirements for corporate greener revolution efforts. Full article

Single-use plastics (SUPs) are deeply embedded in everyday consumption in rapidly developing Asian cities, yet their widespread use contributes to marine debris, microplastic pollution, and health risks. This study aimed to inform evidence-based policymaking to mitigate marine plastic pollution in the ASEAN+3 region. Stratified random sampling surveys (n = 1492) were conducted both face to face and online across five representative cities between September 2022 and February 2023. We quantified and compared the consumption and disposal patterns across nine SUP categories, assessed demographic influences, evaluated the impact of COVID-19, and derived insights for targeted policy interventions. Non-parametric tests were used to evaluate the differences. The results reveal significant inter-city variation: Shanghai and Harbin reported high overall SUP use despite a lower consumption of plastic shopping bags; Hanoi and Depok showed lower overall use but distinct preferences for plastic shopping bags and party cups; and Phnom Penh had the highest consumption of plastic shopping bags, bottles, and straws. Plastic shopping bags were the most used item in all cities (18–34 bags per week), with no significant differences between urban and rural areas, ages, or genders. In contrast, urban residents reported a higher use of plastic takeout containers, cutlery, coffee cups, and party cups. The COVID-19 pandemic notably reshaped SUP consumption patterns. Additionally, over half of SUPs were disposed of without proper separation. These findings underscore the need for flexible, phased, and context-specific interventions to support a resilient circular economy. Full article

This systematic literature review studies student entrepreneurial competence and its impact on sustainable development in the context of higher education in China. The objectives of this study are to identify the key factors affecting student entrepreneurial competence, recent research trends, and the role of student entrepreneurial competence in sustainable development. Using the PRISMA model, relevant literature from 2016 to 2025 was screened from databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect, and a total of 11 empirical studies from peer-reviewed journals were analyzed. The results show that entrepreneurial competitions, entrepreneurship education, experiential learning, interdisciplinarity, entrepreneurship policies, teachers, entrepreneurial curricula, the entrepreneurial environment, and morals all influence student entrepreneurial competence. In addition, this study reveals the role of student entrepreneurial competence in promoting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically in promoting innovation, creating employment opportunities, and enhancing college students’ sense of social responsibility. This study systematically identifies the core factors that affect student entrepreneurial competence in Chinese universities and provides practical suggestions for optimizing entrepreneurial education policies, improving student entrepreneurial competence, and promoting sustainable entrepreneurship. This study provides a theoretical basis for policymakers and university administrators and proposes strategies for optimizing entrepreneurial education that can be used as a reference, providing the Chinese experience for other emerging Asian economies to learn from, thereby expanding the global academic discussion on sustainable entrepreneurial education. Full article

Environmental sustainability remains a critical challenge in the face of global economic development. This study explored the complex interactions among renewable energy consumption, urbanization, trade openness, and economic development, focusing on their effects on environmental quality in 34 high-income European and Asian economies from 1970 to 2022. Using linear Bayesian regression and the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM), the analysis examined short- and long-term impacts to uncover nuanced relationships. Results demonstrated that economic development contributed to environmental degradation over the long term while mitigating it in the short term. Renewable energy consumption supported economic growth but showed limited efficacy in reducing ecological footprints across different time frames. Urbanization and trade openness emerged as significant drivers of long-term environmental degradation, emphasizing the need for targeted policy interventions. This study examined the link among economic progress and environmental sustainability, and identified key areas for improvement in urban planning, renewable energy, and trade policies. The findings provide a framework for policymakers to balance development with environmental preservation. Full article

Under global economic integration, firms are active in transnational operations, prompting all sectors to deepen their awareness of the role of enterprises and pay attention to the fulfillment of their social responsibility. Although the existing literature has explored the impact of firm internationalization (FI) on corporate social responsibility (CSR), there is a lack of comprehensive analysis focusing on the interactions between the different dimensions of the two and how they are influenced by the system of the sample’s country of origin. Therefore, this study aimed to comprehensively investigate the current developments, trends and hotspots of the relationship between FI and CSR, and at the same time summarize the current major theoretical perspectives and empirical findings in this area. This study utilized the Web of Science database to conduct a bibliometric analysis and a literature review analysis of 331 studies published up to 2024 in order to identify trends and patterns in the relationship between FI and CSR. Specifically, the bibliometric analysis utilized Cite Space 6.4.R1 and VOSviewer 1.6.19 to analyze the collected and screened literature data, clarify the distribution of the core research power, and discover hotspots and trends through keyword analysis, whereas the literature review analysis sorted out the complex relationship between FI and CSR through extensive reading of the literature and an analysis of it from both theoretical perspectives. The empirical results and their aspects are summarized. The findings demonstrate that the research in this field shows an increasing trend year by year, in which American and British universities and research institutes are in the leading position in this field, and Asian emerging economies are also emerging in this field. The current hotspot is still focused on the impact of the degree of internationalization on the fulfillment of social responsibility, but some scholars have begun to carry out interdisciplinary research, focusing on the emerging markets through micro case studies. At the same time, this study also found that there is a complex interaction between FI and CSR; on the one hand, this is due to the fact that scholars use different theoretical perspectives in different practice contexts, and on the other hand, it is because scholars use different research methods and samples, which leads to the heterogeneity of the final empirical results. This study provides a clear guideline for subsequent researchers to quickly grasp the research pattern through the bibliometric analysis, which greatly saves on exploration time and energy in the pre-study period, while the literature review analysis summarizes the framework of the previous studies for readers, and sorts out the complex relationship between FI and CSR clearly. Overall, this study provides ideas for firms to adopt CSR in their internationalization strategies, as well as a basis for relevant sectoral organizations to formulate policies and regulatory measures. Full article

In order to contribute to the body of knowledge on sustainable poverty reduction by exploring the relationship between rural and structural transformations and rural poverty incidence in Asian developing countries, this paper selected China, the Philippines, and Vietnam as case studies. Based on a comparison with the provincial data from those three countries, both the graphic and regression analysis suggest that structural and rural transformations matter in rural poverty reduction in these three countries. There is strong evidence showing that raising the share of non-agricultural GDP and the share of rural off-farm employment significantly contributes to rural poverty reduction in all three countries. More importantly, with the expansion of the non-farm sectors in both urban and rural areas, high-value agricultural share has a statistically significant and negative correlation with rural poverty in China and Vietnam over time, while such a negative correlation is much weaker or even does not exist in the Philippines. This paper further concludes with several implications for policymakers to promote inclusive structural and rural transformations. Full article