Search Results (137)

In the past decade, agricultural biogas plants have become one of the key tools driving the energy transition in rural areas. Nevertheless, their development in Poland still lags behind that in Western European countries, suggesting the existence of barriers that go beyond technological or regulatory issues. This study aims to examine how Polish farmers perceive the risks and expected benefits associated with investing in biogas plants and which of these perceptions influence their willingness to invest. The research was conducted in the second quarter of 2025 among farmers planning to build micro biogas plants as well as owners of existing biogas facilities. Geographic Information System (GIS) tools were also used in selecting respondents and identifying potential investment sites, helping to pinpoint areas with favorable spatial and environmental conditions. The findings show that both current and prospective biogas plant operators view complex legal requirements, social risk, and financial uncertainty as the main obstacles. However, both groups are primarily motivated by the desire for on-farm energy self-sufficiency and the environmental benefits of improved agricultural waste management. Owners of operational installations—particularly small and medium-sized ones—tend to rate all categories of risk significantly lower than prospective investors, suggesting that practical experience and knowledge-sharing can effectively alleviate perceived risks related to renewable energy investments. Full article

This study examines how employees perceive technology-based demands during the digital transformation process and how these perceptions affect job performance. The research utilized data obtained from 388 experts in the accounting and financial reporting profession, a knowledge-intensive field that heavily employs new technologies (e.g., ERP systems, digital audit tools). The data collected through a convenience sampling method was analyzed using SPSS 27 and SmartPLS 4 software. The findings reveal that the direct effect of technostress on job performance is not significant; however, this stress indirectly contributes to performance through techno-eustress. In this study, techno-eustress refers to the cognitive appraisal of technology-related demands as development-enhancing challenges rather than threats. This concept is theoretically grounded in the broader eustress framework, which views stressors as potentially motivating and growth-promoting when positively interpreted. The model is based on Cognitive Evaluation Theory, the Job Demands–Resources Model, and Self-Determination Theory. This study demonstrates that digital transformation can promote not only operational improvements but also organizational resilience by enhancing employees’ psychological resources and adaptive capacities. By highlighting the mediating role of techno-eustress, this research offers a nuanced perspective on how human-centered cognitive mechanisms can strategically support performance and sustainability in the face of technological disruption—an increasingly relevant area for organizations striving to thrive amid uncertainty. Full article

Plastic is extensively used in nursery and greenhouse operations. Concerns are growing about the potential release of plastic byproducts, such as microplastics and per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), into water resources. The purpose of this study was to (1) compare perceptions of plastic use and water quality impacts between scientists researching water contaminants and nursery/greenhouse growers, (2) identify barriers to growers reducing plastic use, and (3) explore preferred communication channels for scientists to inform growers about emerging research. An online survey was administered to collect data from scientists in a USDA-funded multi-state Hatch project (N = 20) and nursery/greenhouse growers (N = 66) across the United States. The findings indicated both groups were unsure of the impacts of plastic use. While most respondents perceived surface water pollution as a critical issue, neither scientists nor growers strongly agreed on-farm plastic use poses a significant threat. Both groups recognized the importance of regular water testing, but few believed mandatory changes to plastic use should be enacted without further evidence. Growers cited limited equipment, financial constraints, and uncertain availability of viable plastic alternatives as key barriers. Despite these barriers, growers were willing to learn more, primarily through online resources, short courses, and workshops. The findings underscore the need for targeted research that quantifies plastic byproducts in nursery/greenhouse water and identifies cost-effective alternatives. Timely dissemination of scientific findings using trusted sources will be critical to bridge knowledge gaps and support adoption of best practices to safeguard water quality in surface and groundwater. Full article

Ensuring consistent progress toward cities’ net-zero emission goals requires understanding key dimensions of urban climate governance—particularly the motivations driving municipalities toward net zero and the critical barriers and enablers along this pathway. Current knowledge on these critical aspects is fragmented, lacking a holistic framework and empirical prioritization of key factors. We developed an integrated analytical framework and empirically distilled the most salient motivations, barriers, and enablers through a large-scale survey targeting 489 net-zero-committed municipalities—known as “Zero Carbon Cities”—across Japan. With responses from 309 municipalities, we deliver the first systematic mapping of factors perceived as most influential by Japanese local authorities. The results indicate that municipalities are primarily motivated by seizing local economic development opportunities (enhanced local energy conditions, financial gains and savings, and local industry revitalization), future-proofing communities against disasters, and enhancing the local quality of life. Key barriers and enablers were identified across four categories: municipal resources and authority (budgets, dedicated staff, and empowered climate agencies), knowledge and expertise (staff climate competence), institutional coherence (cross-departmental coordination and stakeholder involvement), and political will and leadership (the presence of climate champions and awareness within city halls and among residents). Accordingly, we discuss implications and derive recommendations toward strengthened local action in Japan and beyond. Full article

This study investigates key factors influencing individuals’ intentions to incorporate digital assets into inheritance planning in Thailand. The research focuses on three primary determinants: demographic characteristics, knowledge of digital assets, and the perceived risks associated with their usage and transfer. Utilizing a quantitative research design, data were collected from 630 Thai respondents via a structured online questionnaire through convenience sampling. Binary logistic regression analysis was applied to identify statistically significant predictors. The results indicate that digital-asset knowledge, gender, age, income, saving behavior, and risk perception collectively account for a substantial variance in individuals’ intentions to use digital assets as part of their inheritance planning. Notably, knowledge and income positively influence adoption, suggesting that financial education and broader economic development may encourage increased usage. Conversely, factors such as age, gender, and perception of risks pose significant barriers, underscoring the need for targeted strategies to foster inclusivity. As digital assets transition from speculative tools to recognized financial instruments, their role in inheritance planning becomes increasingly relevant. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of this evolving financial landscape in the Thai context and offers insights applicable to other emerging markets undergoing similar digital transformations. Full article

As healthcare systems face mounting pressure to modernise payment infrastructure, fintech innovations have emerged as potential tools to improve affordability and efficiency. However, the adoption of these technologies in clinical settings remains limited. This study investigated the perceptions and resistance patterns of healthcare professionals toward Buy-Now-Pay-Later technology and blockchain in healthcare finance, using Innovation Resistance Theory as the guiding framework. Survey data collected from medical practitioners (N = 366) were analysed to identify knowledge gaps, perceived risks, and tradition-related barriers that influence adoption intent. The findings reveal that while interest in financial innovation exists, resistance is driven by institutional conservatism, regulatory uncertainty, and limited familiarity with decentralised finance systems. This research contributes to the literature by offering a theory-based explanation for why even high-potential financial tools face behavioural and structural resistance in healthcare environments. Full article

Mangrove ecosystems are vital for coastal protection, fisheries, biodiversity, and local livelihoods, yet they are increasingly threatened by land-use changes, climate impacts, and limited conservation funding. This study investigates how much local communities are willing to pay (WTP) to conserve the Chwaka Bay mangrove forest in Zanzibar. Using the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) with a payment card approach, we conducted a structured household survey to assess both monetary contributions and the psychological and socioeconomic factors influencing them. This study is guided by Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), incorporating attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and mangrove knowledge. The results show that 68.2% of respondents are willing to pay for mangrove conservation, while 24.2% are not—mainly due to financial constraints or skepticism about fund use. Key drivers of WTP include perceived ecological and livelihood benefits, environmental awareness, and prior conservation involvement. Statistical validation using the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) test and Bartlett’s test of sphericity confirmed the reliability of the model. The findings demonstrate the value of combining behavioral theory with economic valuation to better understand and support community-based conservation strategies. This approach can inform policymakers in designing targeted, transparent, and inclusive mangrove protection programs. Full article

Hand hygiene (HH) in school settings can reduce the spread of infectious diseases and student absenteeism due to illness. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization recommended HH as a public health measure to prevent disease transmission. Understanding school staff’s experiences with school-based programs is important for future program development and improvement. As part of a mixed-methods study, we conducted in-depth interviews in March 2022 with school administrators and teachers at 12 primary schools in Belize, selected based on high gaps in HH resources, to understand HH responsibilities, supplies, and challenges. An intervention was implemented to increase HH knowledge and practices among students, which included environmental nudges, supplemental provision of soap, and HH lesson implementation. Follow-up interviews were conducted in June 2023 among school administrators to garner feedback on the intervention. School staff described roles in teaching and managing HH supplies at both timepoints. The environmental nudges and HH lessons were perceived as helpful, but there were gaps remaining in HH practices, which may be partially influenced by practices and beliefs outside of school. Procurement of HH supplies remained a challenge at some schools due to financial constraints. The feedback from school staff will be valuable for the implementation of future hand hygiene programs in schools. Full article

The transition to clean energy is at the heart of the European Union’s climate strategy, with citizen participation promoted as a key driver. Clean energy communities (CECs) are central to this vision, yet their uptake across Europe remains limited. This study provides a novel comparative perspective on perceived barriers to CEC participation by examining two distinct groups: current members (early adopters) and the general public (potential adopters). Using a cross-national mixed-methods approach, we integrate data from semi-structured interviews with CEC members and a representative survey of citizens in six European countries. The results show that awareness of CECs is generally low and that initiatives are still in the early stages of adoption. While interviewees highlighted regulatory complexity and institutional barriers, survey respondents were more likely to cite lack of awareness, knowledge gaps, and financial concerns. The findings reveal distinct patterns in perceived barriers across adopter groups and national contexts. To support broader engagement, we propose a dual strategy: addressing structural challenges through regulatory and policy reform, while strengthening targeted communication and outreach. We also highlight the role of early adopters as trusted messengers who can help bridge the gap between innovation and mainstream adoption. Full article

Background: Resistance to vaccinations continues to pose a considerable challenge to attaining widespread vaccination, especially among the college student demographic, who are pivotal in championing public health initiatives. This systematic review investigates the elements that influence reluctance to receive the COVID-19 vaccine among university students globally. Utilizing the WHO’s 3C model, which encompasses confidence, complacency, and convenience, this review seeks to pinpoint the main factors and suggest focused strategies to address them. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic search in PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and Global Health. Eligible studies were cross-sectional, peer-reviewed, and examined COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among college students. Covidence was used for screening, and data were synthesized narratively using the 3C model. Results: Sixty-seven studies (n = 88,345 participants) from 25 countries were included in this study. Confidence factors were the most influential, with fear of side effects (87.18%) and doubts about efficacy (72.4%) as primary concerns. Complacency factors included a low perceived risk of infection (34.9%) and a preference for alternative preventive measures (52.3%). Convenience barriers involved financial costs (58.1%) and difficulty accessing vaccination centers (40.3%). Subgroup analyses revealed variations by academic discipline and geographic region, with medical students showing hesitancy despite their health knowledge. Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among college students is primarily driven by safety concerns, misinformation, and accessibility barriers. Addressing hesitancy requires transparent risk communication, policy-driven accessibility improvements, and tailored educational interventions. These findings can inform strategies to enhance vaccine uptake among young adults and contribute to broader efforts in pandemic preparedness. Full article

This study investigates the entrepreneurial intentions of Saudi female students, focusing on the underexplored role of accounting knowledge within the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) framework, to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of gender-inclusive economic diversification. Using a qualitative multiple-case study design, the research analyzes interviews with 45 female business students and an in-depth case study of a graduate entrepreneur to examine how entrepreneurial attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control (PBC)—particularly through accounting education and institutional support—shape entrepreneurial intentions. The results reveal that PBC dominates entrepreneurial intentions (80% of thematic prevalence), being heavily influenced by accounting literacy (18%) and entrepreneurship education (58%). While subjective norms show positive shifts due to socio-institutional reforms, accounting knowledge emerges as a critical yet underutilized cognitive factor in enhancing financial decision-making capabilities. This study contributes to the sustainable entrepreneurship literature by uniquely integrating accounting competencies into the TPB model as a key enabler of PBC, offering a context-sensitive framework for women’s entrepreneurship in transitional economies. The research provides practical insights for policymakers and educators to bridge the intention–behavior gap through curriculum development, ecosystem support, and gender-inclusive policy reforms. Full article

The rise in internet-based services has raised risks of data exposure. The manipulation and exploitation of sensitive data significantly impact individuals’ resilience—the ability to protect and prepare against cyber incidents. Emerging technologies seek to enhance cybersecurity resilience by developing various security tools. This study aims to explore the adoption of security tools using a qualitative research approach. Twenty-two semi-structured interviews were conducted with users of mobile banking apps from Pakistan. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, which revealed that biometric authentication and SMS alerts are commonly used. Limited use of multifactor authentication has been observed, mainly due to a lack of awareness or implementation knowledge. Passwords are still regarded as a trusted and secure mechanism. The findings indicate that the adoption of security tools is based on perceptions of usefulness, perceived trust, and perceived ease of use, while knowledge and awareness play a moderating role. This study also proposes a framework by extending TAM to include multiple security tools and introducing knowledge and awareness as a moderator influencing users’ perceptions. The findings inform practical implications for financial institutions, application developers, and policymakers to ensure standardized policy to include security tools in online financial platforms, thereby enhancing overall cybersecurity resilience. Full article

As water scarcity and environmental sustainability become increasingly critical global concerns, there is a growing need to identify alternative water resources. This study investigates public acceptance of Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) systems in Brunei Darussalam for non-potable uses and ablution purposes. Using an extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework, the research evaluates key factors influencing public perceptions, including Perceived Ease of Use (PEU), Perceived Usefulness (PU), Attitude Towards Use (ATU), Intentions to Use (ITU), and external factors such as Perceived Cost (PC), Subjective Knowledge (SK), and Technical Requirements (TR). Survey data were analyzed through regression techniques to assess these relationships. The results validate the TAM framework for understanding acceptance of RWH systems and highlight strong positive relationships between PEU, PU, and ATU, with ATU emerging as the strongest predictor of behavioral intentions (ITU). External factors like PC and TR were identified as barriers to adoption, emphasizing the need for financial incentives and technical support. Additionally, subjective knowledge was found to positively influence PU and ITU, underscoring the importance of public awareness campaigns. While concerns about the safety and quality of recycled rainwater were present, they were not significant deterrents to acceptance. The findings also reveal broad support for initiatives such as education, technical guidance, and maintenance services to enhance adoption. Muslim respondents expressed positive attitudes toward using rainwater for ablution, aligning with religious principles of water conservation. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and relevant agencies to promote RWH systems as a sustainable water management solution, aligning with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and 13 (Climate Action). Full article

Agricultural systems face increasing challenges due to climate change, necessitating effective adaptation and mitigation strategies. This study investigates smallholder farmers’ perceptions of the efficacy of these strategies in The Gambia, employing a mixed-method approach that includes a perception index (PI), effectiveness score (ES), importance–performance analysis (IPA), and statistical analysis. A structured survey was conducted among 420 smallholder farmers across three agricultural regions. Farmers rated adaptation and mitigation strategies using a Likert scale, and a PI was developed to quantify their responses. The index was 0.66, indicating a moderate level of perceived effectiveness. Additionally, ES was calculated to assess the performance of various strategies, while IPA categorized strategies based on their adoption and perceived impact. Chi-square tests and factor analysis were applied to explore differences in perceptions. The findings reveal that strategies such as crop diversification, pesticide application, irrigation, and the use of inorganic fertilizers are widely adopted and perceived as effective. The IPA matrix identified key strategies needing improvement, particularly those with high importance but low performance. Barriers to adoption include limited financial resources (77%), lack of government support (64%), and insufficient knowledge (52%), with no significant gender-based differences in perceptions. This study underscores the need for policy interventions that integrate farmers’ perceptions to enhance climate resilience. Targeted investments in adaptive technologies, financial support, and knowledge-sharing platforms can improve adoption and effectiveness. This research provides valuable insights into the interplay between farmer perceptions, adaptation strategies, and agricultural sustainability in The Gambia. Full article

The “Ten-Year Fishing Ban” policy in the Yangtze River Basin aims to restore ecological diversity but poses significant challenges for the fishermen in their transition to alternative livelihoods. This study focuses on fishermen who worked on Poyang Lake, using the sustainable livelihood framework and the theory of planned behavior, combined with fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) and descriptive statistics, to explore the interaction effects of livelihood capital, ecological cognition, and compensation policies on fishermen’s behavioral responses. Key findings include the following: natural, financial, and psychological capital are core drivers of enhanced ecological cognition, with combined effects significantly increasing sensitivity to policy and environmental changes through pathways like “ecological transition drive”, “knowledge adaptation support”, and “multi-cooperation synergy”. Attitude, perceived behavioral control, and compensation policy transparency are crucial for positive responses, while social norms and policy fairness can compensate for individual motivation deficits, forming pathways like “ecological drive-policy recognition” and “norm drive-social support”. Current issues such as low compensation standards, insufficient retraining, and gender differences limit policy effectiveness. Optimizing measures like differentiated fishing permits, dynamic compensation mechanisms, and cultural empowerment are needed to balance ecological protection and social equity. The study suggests enhancing financial and psychological capital, improving vocational training systems, and increasing policy transparency to provide theoretical and practical references for sustainable global fisheries management. Full article