Search Results (224)

In the era of climate change, the strategic importance of forestry products for sustainable development is increasingly recognized. Amid a global resurgence of industrial policy aimed at addressing environmental challenges, this study investigates the impact of China’s central and provincial green industrial policies on the export competitiveness of wood-processing enterprises. Utilizing firm-level data from the China Industrial Enterprise Database and China Customs Export Database (2000–2013), we apply a double machine learning (DML) approach and construct a heterogeneous competitiveness model to evaluate policy effects along two dimensions: export quantity (volume and intensity) and export quality (product complexity and consumer-perceived quality). Our findings reveal a clear dichotomy in policy outcomes. While industrial policies have significantly improved export product complexity—reflecting China’s comparative advantage in labor-intensive production—they have had limited or even negative effects on export volume, intensity, and product quality. This suggests that current policy frameworks disproportionately reward horizontal innovation (product diversification) while neglecting vertical upgrading (quality enhancement), thereby hindering comprehensive export performance gains. Those results highlight the need for more balanced and targeted policy design. By aligning industrial policy instruments with both complexity and quality objectives, policymakers can better support the sustainable transformation of China’s forestry sector and enhance its competitiveness in global value chains. Full article

Hydrogen produced from renewable sources has the potential to tackle various energy challenges, from allowing cost-effective transportation of renewable energy from production to consumption regions to decarbonizing intensive energy consumption industries. Due to its application versatility and non-greenhouse gaseous emissions characteristics, it is expected that hydrogen will play an important role in the decarbonization strategies set out for 2050. Currently, there are some barriers and challenges that need to be addressed to fully take advantage of the opportunities associated with hydrogen. The present work aims to characterize the state of the art of different hydrogen production, storage, transport, and distribution technologies, which compose the hydrogen value chain. Based on the information collected it was possible to conclude the following: (i) Electrolysis is the frontrunner to produce green hydrogen at a large scale (efficiency up to 80%) since some of the production technologies under this category have already achieved a commercially available state; (ii) in the storage phase, various technologies may be suitable based on specific conditions and purposes. Technologies of the physical-based type are the ones mostly used in real applications; (iii) transportation and distribution options should be viewed as complementary rather than competitive, as the most suitable option varies based on transportation distance and hydrogen quantity; and (iv) a single value chain configuration cannot be universally applied. Therefore, each case requires a comprehensive analysis of the entire value chain. Methodologies, like life cycle assessment, should be utilized to support the decision-making process. Full article

Spice by-products, often discarded as waste, represent an untapped resource for sustainable packaging solutions due to their unique, multifunctional, and bioactive profiles. Unlike typical plant residues, these materials retain diverse phytochemicals—including phenolics, polysaccharides, and other compounds, such as essential oils and vitamins—that exhibit controlled release antimicrobial and antioxidant effects with environmental responsiveness to pH, humidity, and temperature changes. Their distinctive advantage is in preserving volatile bioactives, demonstrating enzyme-inhibiting properties, and maintaining thermal stability during processing. This review encompasses a comprehensive characterization of phytochemicals, an assessment of the re-utilization pathway from waste to active materials, and an investigation of processing methods for transforming by-products into films, coatings, and nanoemulsions through green extraction and packaging film development technologies. It also involves the evaluation of their mechanical strength, barrier performance, controlled release mechanism behavior, and effectiveness of food preservation. Key findings demonstrate that ginger and onion residues significantly enhance antioxidant and antimicrobial properties due to high phenolic acid and sulfur-containing compound concentrations, while cinnamon and garlic waste effectively improve mechanical strength and barrier attributes owing to their dense fiber matrix and bioactive aldehyde content. However, re-using these residues faces challenges, including the long-term storage stability of certain bioactive compounds, mechanical durability during scale-up, natural variability that affects standardization, and cost competitiveness with conventional packaging. Innovative solutions, including encapsulation, nano-reinforcement strategies, intelligent polymeric systems, and agro-biorefinery approaches, show promise for overcoming these barriers. By utilizing these spice by-products, the packaging industry can advance toward a circular bio-economy, depending less on traditional plastics and promoting environmental sustainability in light of growing global population and urbanization trends. Full article

Sustainability has also become an increasingly important issue as an international trend for the hospitality industry in recent times, with a positive message for both restaurant operators and consumers. Restaurants can become more sustainable in three main areas: (1) water and energy efficiency, (2) waste management, and (3) employees—social topics. This study examines the role of green practices and innovation in hospitality using three methods in parallel. In connection with a current tourism project, this paper describes some of the green practices for hospitality management in Hungary. Based on the survey, the most common sustainable practices are sourcing from local producers and using seasonal menus. The most popular food waste reduction strategies are Munch, nose-to-tail, and other food utilization options, totaling 65.0%. A total of 72.0% of consumers prefer the green restaurants. Our data show that sustainable operation is not just an environmental issue, but also increasingly a strategic business advantage. The findings are supported by the everyday practices of two of Dining Guide’s member restaurants, Iszkor and Sulyom in the Northeastern Hungary region. Both restaurants focus on locally sourced food and drink ingredients. Some dairy products, domestic fruit, and vegetables come from sustainable farming. For restaurants, adopting sustainable solutions can provide a long-term competitive advantage. Full article

The Magallanes region, in southern Chile, is positioned as a strategic hub for the production of green hydrogen (GH2), green ammonia, and synthetic fuels, thanks to its exceptional wind potential and commitment to sustainability. This article analyzes the opportunities and challenges of these energy vectors in the context of global decarbonization, highlighting the key role of the Magallanes region in the energy transition. Green hydrogen production, through wind-powered electrolysis, takes advantage of the region’s constant, high-speed winds, enabling competitive, low-emission generation. In turn, green ammonia, derived from GH2, emerges as a sustainable alternative for the agricultural industry and maritime transport, while synthetic fuels (e-fuels) offer a solution for sectors that are difficult to electrify, such as aviation. The sustainability approach addresses not only emissions reduction but also the responsible use of water resources, the protection of biodiversity, and integration with local communities. The article presents the following structure: (i) introduction, (ii) wind resource potential, (iii) water resource potential, (iv) different forms of hydrogen and its derivatives production (green hydrogen, green ammonia, and synthetic fuels), (v) pilot-scale demonstration plant for Haru Oni GH2 production, (vi) future industrial-scale GH2 production projects, (vii) discussion, and (viii) conclusions. In addition, the article discusses public policies, economic incentives, and international collaborations that promote these projects, positioning Magallanes as a clean energy export hub. Finally, the article concludes that the region can lead the production of green fuels, contributing to global energy security and the fulfillment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, advances in infrastructure, regulation, and social acceptance are required to guarantee a balanced development between technological innovation and environmental conservation. Full article

From reviewing the literature, there was still a scarcity of research about direct and indirect relationships between fintech adoption (FA) and banks’ environmental performance (BEP), particularly in developing countries. Therefore, this is a pioneering study that empirically explored the impacts of FA on BEP in the Middle East (ME) region, considering the mediating role of green accounting practices (GAPs)—such as green banking practices (GBPs), green finance (GF), and circular economy practices (CEPs)—based on legitimacy and ecological modernization (EM) theories to address these research gaps. Based on a structured survey and convenience sampling technique, the primary data were obtained from a sample of 500 members of staff from banks in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, Oman, Iraq, and Jordan. The structural equation model (SEM) was utilized to investigate the relationships among this study’s variables. The findings indicated that FA positively and significantly impacts GBPs, GF, CEPs, and BEP, which answered the first research question. Furthermore, the linkage between FA and BEP is positively and significantly mediated by GBPs, GF, and CEPs; thus, the second research question was answered. The findings provide bank executives and policy makers with valuable understanding and suggestions to deploy more investments in eco-friendly practices to enhance the environmental performance (EP), societal legitimacy, and achieve competitive advantage. Additionally, collaboration among the banking institutions, governments, and international firms is essential to promote FA and GAPs and enhance the EP. Full article

The United Kingdom has enacted rules to support green investment, enhancing the financial sustainability of enterprises adopting sustainable practices. These enactments offer financial incentives to enterprises that invest in sustainable initiatives. Companies that do not adopt sustainable practices face increasing operating expenses, a declining market share, and diminished investor trust. This study leveraged the stakeholder theory to examine the impact of sustainable finance on business financial performance. The study focused on 143 non-financial companies listed on the London Stock Exchange, using 17 years of data between 2008 and 2024 obtained from Thomson Reuters Eikon DataStream. The data were analyzed using the two-step Generalized Method of Estimation (GMM) due to endogeneity identified in the data. The study discovered that green financing initiatives, policies for emission reduction, and sustainable product initiatives had a positive and significant impact on business financial performance. The study also revealed that environmental investment initiatives negatively and significantly impacted business financial performance. Investing in green finance and sustainable products enhances financial performance by fostering investor trust and bolstering corporate reputation, fortifying firms. Adhering to international sustainability standards promotes long-term value creation and market alignment. To mitigate financial strain, environmental investments necessitate stringent cost management. An equitable strategy ensures that, by mitigating risks, sustainability measures enhance profitability. By meticulously integrating these projects, companies can achieve environmental and financial benefits while sustaining a competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving corporate landscape. Full article

As environmental issues are of worldwide concern and consumers grow more concerned about the environment, green investments have emerged as a key factor in attracting consumers. To enhance consumer trust in enterprise investments in green and sustainable practices, blockchain technology, with its tamper-resistant and traceable characteristics, is being adopted by an increasing number of enterprises. However, the resulting spillover effect may lead to adverse consequences in a co-opetitive supply chain. This study examines a green supply chain comprising Brand O, a high brand value entity, and a contract manufacturer (CM) with lower brand value. The two parties collaborate through outsourced production while competing in the retail market. Three decision-making models were constructed, namely, without blockchain, Brand O adopting blockchain, and the CM adopting blockchain, and equilibrium solutions were derived to facilitate analysis. We find that Brand O tends not to introduce blockchain in order to avoid the loss of brand value and the spillover of consumer trust. The CM tends to introduce blockchain to enhance its products’ environmental impact and gain an exclusive competitive advantage, targeting the high-end market. These findings guide managers and practitioners in a co-opetitive green supply chain: high brand value retailers should cautiously evaluate blockchain’s impact, staying alert to risks hidden beneath benefits; upstream manufacturers can prioritize blockchain adoption for competitive advantage. Full article

Indian mock strawberry (Duchesnea indica, syn. Potentilla indica), a clonal invasive plant native to Asia, has rapidly spread in Europe, where its ecological adaptation allows it to thrive under varying environmental conditions. It is mostly found in urban habitats such as lawns, parks, and urban and peri-urban forests, where it thrives in various plant communities. It can become dominant in certain communities, indicating its competitive advantage over native plants. Due to similar habitat preferences, it often coexists with the native species Glechoma hederacea, with which it shares other characteristics such as clonal growth. This study investigates the effects of light, nutrients, and competition on the growth, morphology, and physiology of D. indica. A controlled pot experiment exposed plants to combinations of sunlight and shade, optimal and increased nutrient levels, and competitive scenarios with the native plant G. hederacea. The plant traits of biomass, leaf and ramet number, stolon and flower production, leaf greenness, the photosynthetic efficiency of Photosystem II, and stomatal conductance were assessed. Results revealed that light and nutrient availability significantly enhanced growth metrics. In shaded conditions, D. indica adapted with elongated petioles and increased specific leaf area. Competition significantly reduced growth, with G. hederacea outperforming D. indica. These findings highlight the complex interplay between abiotic and biotic factors in influencing invasive species impact, providing essential insights for ecosystem management. Full article

Green banking has become a concept of interest, particularly with the focus on the role played by banks in pursuing Sustainable Development Goal 13 on climate action. This study is distinguished from previous ones in that it aimed at investigating the multi-regional view on green banking practices/activities around the world with a special emphasis on the opportunities and challenges that various banks encounter in different geographical areas. A systematic review approach was adopted based on the Web of Science and Scopus databases, in which 159 articles were retrieved and 62 articles synthesized through a thematic analysis. The research process was demonstrated through a Prisma 2020 flowchart. Key multiregional green banking activities identified include digital banking, green loan or sukuk products for Islam-dominated economies, green services and investments, and financing of green infrastructure. In essence, the implementation of green banking is either directly through active green lending and greening their operations or indirectly through enhancing conditions. The key challenges identified include regulatory handles, social economic and culture hinderances, transition risk and the high cost of compliance, greenwashing concerns, and weak investor confidence. The most prevalent opportunities included green banking as a strategic competitive advantage, emerging market niche, and as a strategy for long-term climate risk management. Full article

In response to escalating environmental concerns and regulatory demands, this study investigates how circular economy entrepreneurship contributes to sustainability-oriented business performance, with a focus on the mediating role of cleaner production and the moderating role of green government subsidies. Drawing on institutional theory, the research examines how institutional pressures shape firms’ adoption of sustainable practices within the Turkish manufacturing sector. A quantitative design was employed, using stratified random sampling to collect data from 383 firms across various industries. Structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the proposed relationships. The results reveal that circular economy entrepreneurship positively influences sustainability performance, primarily through the mediating effect of cleaner production practices. Furthermore, green government subsidies strengthen the impact of circular economy entrepreneurship on both cleaner production and sustainability outcomes, underscoring the importance of policy support in enhancing the effectiveness of eco-entrepreneurial initiatives. Practically, this study provides actionable insights for managers and policymakers seeking to integrate sustainability into strategic planning, technological investment, and regulatory design. By aligning entrepreneurial innovation with institutional incentives, firms can simultaneously achieve environmental responsibility and long-term competitive advantage. Full article

The ecological transformation of industrial enterprises is crucial for promoting sustainable development, improving energy efficiency, and boosting environmental quality. This study provides empirical insights into the relationship between digital commerce and the ecological transformation of manufacturing firms, using panel data from Chinese A-share-listed manufacturing businesses from 2011 to 2021. The findings demonstrate that digital commerce significantly accelerates the environmental transition of manufacturing firms, particularly within established organizations, competitive sectors, and non-renewable energy industries. Mechanism analysis reveals that advancements in digital commerce improve the breadth, quality, and sustainability of green technology innovation. Examining threshold effects identifies a distinct threshold in the cumulative impact of green technological improvements, beyond which digital commerce facilitates the ecological transition of industrial firms. Manufacturing enterprises need to optimize the use of digital tools and provide more efficient solutions around resource allocation, so as to gain an advantageous position in the green supply chain. Full article

This research examines how sustainability driven innovation and performance factors influence Nepali tourism-oriented small and medium enterprises (SMEs) operating with limited resources. It investigates the relationships between entrepreneurial leadership (EL), network orientation (NO), and entrepreneurial orientation (EO) by integrating the Resource-Based View (RBV) and Strategic Fit Theory. The study positions strategic flexibility (SF) as a moderator between EL and NO in shaping startup performance (SP), with technological innovation capabilities (TIC) acting as a mediator. EO plays a critical role in startup success, helping businesses overcome resource constraints and adopt sustainable practices such as green technologies and energy-saving methods. Through TIC, SMEs convert strategic orientations into competitive advantages, enabling them to address environmental and social sustainability challenges. In Nepal’s fragmented tourism sector, NO and EL do not directly affect organizational performance. However, the findings confirm that SF’s adaptive capability bridges EL and SP, underscoring adaptability as a key driver of sustainable growth. The research provides valuable insights into tourism and entrepreneurship in resource-scarce settings, highlighting adaptive strategies and technological advancement as critical for resilience and long-term sustainability. To explain how tourism SMEs in resource-constrained contexts, such as Nepal, achieve sustainable growth, the study integrates the Resource-Based View (RBV) and Strategic Fit Theory. The findings indicate that strategic flexibility (SF) and technological innovation capabilities (TIC) play significant mediating and moderating roles in linking entrepreneurial strategies to performance within fragile ecosystems. While previous research has primarily focused on advanced economies, this study demonstrates how SF and TIC mediate entrepreneurial strategies in fragile environments, offering practical implications for sustainable development in emerging markets. Full article

The direct-seeded rice (DSR) system is poised to become the dominant rice cultivation method due to its advantages, including reduced water usage, less labor requirements, decreased greenhouse gas emissions, and improved adaptation to climate change. However, weeds, particularly jungle rice (Echinochloa colona), significantly hinder DSR and cause substantial yield losses. This study aimed to develop rice cultivars competitive against jungle rice through selective breeding, focusing on early seed germination (ESG) and seedling vigor (ESV). We utilized 181 early-backcross selective introgression breeding lines (EB-SILs) developed using Green Super Rice (GSR) technology by backcrossing Weed Tolerant Rice1 (WTR1) with three donor parents, Haoannong, Cheng Hui 448, and Y134. Using the tunable genotyping-by-sequencing (tGBS^®, Data2Bio Technologies, Ames, IA, USA) method, we identified 3971 common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that facilitated the mapping of 19 novel quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with weed competitiveness—eight linked to ESG traits and eleven to ESV traits. Notably, all QTLs were novel except qRPH1, linked to relative plant height at 14 and 21 days after sowing. Key QTLs were located on chromosomes 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, and 12. Candidate genes identified within these QTLs are implicated in the plant’s response to various abiotic and biotic stresses. Our findings enhance the understanding of the genetic basis for ESG and ESV traits critical for weed competitiveness, supporting marker-assisted and genomic selection approaches for breeding improved rice varieties. Furthermore, this research lays the groundwork for employing gene expression, cloning, and CRISPR editing strategies to combat jungle rice, with potential applications for other weed species and contributing to effective integrated weed management in the DSR system. Full article

Oil production will remain essential in the coming decades, requiring environmental responsibilities that are aligned with Agenda 2030. Enhanced oil recovery (EOR) increases recovery efficiency with low investment, but environmental protection technologies (EOR and Env), including green EOR (GEOR) and waste treatment (WT), must be integrated. The BRICS association, representing half of global oil production, promotes technology transfer in this context. Worldwide patent data (2004–2023) of EOR and Env technologies at TRL 4–5 in BRICS and non-BRICS countries were compared for nine GEOR (1489 patents) and nine WT (2292 patents) methods. China is the global leader (73%, being 98% of BRICS patents), maintaining dominance even when normalized by GDP. Non-BRICS patents are from the USA (41%), Japan (31%), and the Republic of Korea (14%). BRICS countries surpassed non-BRICS in 2014, with a 5.9% growth rate, −13.2% for non-BRICS, with all methods growing, whereas in non-BRICS, only water flocculation treatment is growing. BRICS technological specialization is expanding more rapidly than that of non-BRICS countries. BRICS countries exhibit higher relative technological advantages and distance in surfactants, polymers, macromolecules, sludge treatment, and multistage water treatment devices. Non-BRICS countries are more competitive in in situ combustion, water alternating gas (WAG), re-pressurization, vacuum techniques, flotation, water–oil separation, sorption, or precipitation, flocculation, and oil-contaminated water. China is the primary BRICS leader and is positioned to define BRICS policies regarding technology transfer and innovation. Technological partnerships between BRICS and non-BRICS countries are strongly recommended to enhance synergy and achieve sustainable and efficient production more rapidly. Full article