Search Results (83)

Weak sustainability (WS) requires that the inclusive wealth (IW) of a place (e.g., the world, a nation, or a sub-national region) be non-decreasing over a long time. The WS framework provides a more complete account of the sustainability of a place than do sustainability indicators or conventional economic measures, such as gross domestic product. However, while many decisions that affect sustainability are made at regional and local levels, the abstract theory of WS was developed without explicit recognition of the porosity of geographic boundaries and the interdependencies of regions. In this paper, we make three contributions: a carefully reasoned defense of IW per capita as the WS criterion, an improved understanding of the relationship between mobility, labor productivity, and regional economic growth, and an empirical application to US counties that demonstrates the feasibility of empirical regional WS assessment by summarizing Jones’ research. This analysis, extending the framework developed by Arrow and co-authors, accounts for more region-specific factors related to population, most notably the labor productivity component of health capital, and assesses IW per capita for all 50 states and 3108 counties in the US from 2010 to 2017. These improved methods revealed substantially more states and counties that were not WS relative to results using the Arrow et al. framework. The not-WS counties exhibited a distinct rural bias, as regional scientists have suspected but, nevertheless, the majority of rural counties were WS. Our work demonstrated that regional WS assessment is feasible, produces results that are consistent with prior expectations based on reasoning and empirical research, and has the potential to provide fresh insights into longstanding questions of regional development. Full article

In today’s evolving society, meaningful development cannot be fully realized without acknowledging the vital role of the electronics sector, especially as it functions within informal markets. These markets have become more than just centers of commerce; they serve as informal learning grounds where many young people acquire entrepreneurial skills, develop resilience, and find alternatives to social vices. For many, informal entrepreneurship is not just an option but a means of survival and self-empowerment. Despite their growing relevance, the link between the entrepreneurial abilities nurtured in these informal markets and actual business performance has not been adequately examined. This study, therefore, aimed to explore how informal electronics entrepreneurs in a developing economy navigate their environment, overcome challenges, and create wealth through vision, innovation, and calculated risk-taking. Anchored in institutional theory, the research employed a qualitative approach, using cluster, purposive, and simple random sampling to select participants from key informal business units. Interviews were conducted, transcribed, and analyzed using QSR NVivo 12, allowing for deep insight into the lived experiences of the entrepreneurs. Findings revealed that 78% of participants emphasized practical suggestions that aid informal business survival, such as customer-driven innovations, adaptive strategies, and avoiding confrontations with regulatory agencies. Key attributes such as foresight, adaptability, and risk management accounted for 66% of the variance in corporate success. Strategic and innovative approaches are enabling informal firms to endure and prosper, since 61% of respondents associated these competencies with organizational success. The new BSP framework, which integrates institutional and contingency theories, illustrates how informal enterprises endure by conforming to or opposing institutional pressures and adjusting to environmental changes. The results indicate that, when properly understood and supported, the informal electronics sector may develop sustainably. This study demonstrates that informal entrepreneurship is influenced by formal regulations, informal norms, and local enforcement mechanisms, therefore enhancing institutional theory and elucidating business behavior in developing nations. The Business Survival Paradigm [BSP] illustrates how informal enterprises navigate institutional obstacles to endure. It advocates for policies that integrate the official and informal sectors while fostering sustainable development. The paper advocates for ongoing market research to assist informal firms in remaining up-to-date. It implores authorities to acknowledge the innovative potential of the informal sector and to provide supportive frameworks for sustainable growth and formal transition where feasible. Full article

The question of what motivates entrepreneurs to maintain and grow their ventures beyond the startup phase remains an underexplored aspect of entrepreneurship research. Using data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, GEM (2023), this study examines four key entrepreneurial motivations among 103 established Croatian entrepreneurs who are making a difference in the world, building great wealth or a very high income, continuing a family tradition, and earning a living. Employing a multivariate multiple regression approach, we analyze how sociodemographic factors, opportunity perception, fear of failure, media influences, and sustainability-oriented mindsets (e.g., UN SDG awareness) influence these diverse motivations. Findings reveal distinct motivational patterns: socially responsible mindsets and awareness of the SDGs primarily drive the aspiration to “make a difference”, while age, perceived opportunities, and fear of failure reinforce the pursuit of wealth. Media narratives uniquely influence the intent to “continue a family tradition”, while necessity-driven motives—linked to fear of failure and lower growth ambitions—predominate among those aiming simply to “earn a living”. By applying a systems thinking approach, this research illustrates how interdependent factors create distinct motivational clusters, and it highlights the importance of tailored policies and support programs for established entrepreneurs seeking sustainable growth. It contributes to the interdisciplinary discourse on entrepreneurship, offering insights for policymakers, educators, and advisors working to foster resilient and innovative entrepreneurial ecosystems. Full article

Reducing global greenhouse gas emissions and implementing sustainable environmental policies require the identification of the economic, political, ecological, and social factors that affect emission levels. To this end, this study examines, for the first time, the impact of wealth inequality, economic growth, and renewable energy consumption on CO₂ emissions in 17 countries with the highest wealth inequality over the 1995–2021 period. This study employs a novel and robust approach, the method of moments quantile regression, to analyze the relationships among these variables. Findings support the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis by displaying that economic growth initially increases CO₂ emissions but has a dampening effect after a turning point. Moreover, renewable energy consumption reduces CO₂ emissions, where certain as increasing wealth inequality contributes to higher CO₂ emissions. These results underscore the need for policymakers to adopt more egalitarian socioeconomic models, accelerate the transition to clean energy, and maintain robust environmental policies to achieve sustainable development goals. Full article

In this work, we investigate an ODE system designed to describe the interplay between human society and the environment, with a strong focus on the role of non-renewable resources. Specifically, our model captures how the depletion and replenishment of non-renewable resources (along with renewable ones) and dependence on wealth drive population and resource dynamics in a society. We prove that the solutions of the system remain in the non-negative cone and are bounded, implying that indefinite unbounded growth in wealth or population cannot occur within this model. Next, we compute and classify all equilibrium points, exploring which equilibria can be stable and physically relevant. In particular, we show that, depending on parameter regimes, the system may admit a stable equilibrium with positive levels of population, renewable resources, non-renewable resources, and wealth, suggesting a possible sustainable long-term outcome for a heavily resource-dependent society. Full article

The mineral extraction industry is vital for nations’ economic growth, as it provides raw materials for various industries. Implementing sustainable mining practices in this sector can contribute to its long-term growth and stability. However, Pakistan lacks a well-defined sustainability assessment framework for mining, leaving a critical gap in research and practice. Existing internationally developed frameworks are not directly applicable, as they were designed for contexts where the mining industry predominantly uses mechanized operations. In contrast, Pakistan’s extraction process relies heavily on manual methods, making it necessary to develop a context-specific framework. A fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (AHP) was employed to prioritize these indicators and sub-indicators for the sustainability assessment of Pakistan’s mineral industry. The findings of this study highlight that the environmental dimension ranks as the highest priority, followed by social and economic dimensions. Among the environmental indicators, pollution and smart technologies each received a weight of 0.40, which was also the case for the social indicator of discrimination and nepotism, as well as the economic indicators of GDP growth and wealth creation. Furthermore, the results suggest that the extensive use of smart technologies for pollution control is a key factor in fostering environmental sustainability. Full article

Background/Objectives: The use of simulated learning as a teaching approach has been used and embedded in nursing theoretical curriculum for many years. There is a wealth of evidence to support the positive impact simulated learning or simulated-based education can have on the student experience, developing skill competency and enhancing patient outcomes. However, the evidence on the use of simulation as a replacement for clinical practice learning in undergraduate nursing education is limited. In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the authors introduced virtual simulated practice learning experiences (SPLE) for a cohort of year one pre-registration adult and mental health nursing students. The SPLE project aimed to assess the effectiveness of simulated practice learning as a viable alternative to traditional clinical practice learning and to explore student satisfaction with the new practice learning experience approach. Methods: All year one student nurses attending the four simulated practice learning experience (SPLE) weeks were invited to participate and complete a generated questionnaire within the virtual practice environment on their final day of each SPLE week. The questionnaire employed a mix of both quantitative and qualitative questions across key areas to evaluate the effectiveness of the SPLE and explore student satisfaction with their overall practice learning experience. Results: A total of 216 students participated in the simulated practice learning weeks across the spring semester in 2023 with a response rate of 98–100% across all four SPLE weeks. Students reported an overall satisfaction score of 88%, highlighting their preparedness and positive feedback on the organisation, delivery, and content of the SPLE. Qualitative analysis revealed key themes, including the development of transferable skills and personal growth, the value of peer learning, the benefits of a virtual environment, and appreciation of service user and healthcare professional input. Students reported significant personal growth, improved communication skills, and a deeper understanding of holistic care through interactive and collaborative learning experiences. Conclusions: This evaluation underscores the innovative potential of simulated practice learning to enhance nursing practice education, emphasising the importance of integrating emerging technologies and diverse pedagogical approaches. The findings suggest that SPLEs can effectively prepare nursing students for the complexities of clinical practice while addressing the evolving demands of healthcare. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to assess the sustained impact of simulated learning on clinical experiences and professional development. Full article

In many developing countries, economic growth is often prioritized, sidelining critical issues such as social inequality, pollution, climate change, ocean degradation, and pressing needs for health, education, food, and water management. Traditional linear models in organizations, based on product innovation and hierarchical governance, have been successful in certain contexts but are no longer viable in the face of finite natural resources and environmental degradation. This paper proposes a Systems Approach to Circular Economy as a practical framework for achieving “circular business-driven sustainability”, a concept proposed by major global organizations such as COP-25. This approach redefines sustainability, aiming to generate “sustainable wealth increasing returns” that benefit all key stakeholders, including the environment, society, and the economy. The primary objective of this paper is to introduce a new paradigm that facilitates the transition to more conscious, long-term growth. The proposed circular iterative thinking framework shifts from linear, reductionist thinking to a more holistic, systemic vision, underpinned by disruptive sustainable innovation. This novel paradigm creates positive impacts across the economy, environment, and global geopolitics. The paper demonstrates the application of this framework in two case studies, providing concrete evidence of its utility in real-world scenarios, including Heineken’s sustainable practices at its Meoqui brewery, which recovered methane for energy use, reduced water consumption, and contributed to local irrigation. The results underscore the effectiveness of the Systems Approach to Circular Economy in achieving economic decoupling and enhancing sustainability. Full article

Innovative entrepreneurship has increasingly been acknowledged as one of the most vital drivers of economic development, job creation at high value, wealth creation, and business growth. This study analyzes the current status and evolution of research on innovative entrepreneurship and sustainability in the context of emerging economies, based on a bibliometric analysis of 132 articles indexed in the Web of Science database. The search was guided by relevant keywords, such as “innovative entrepreneurship*” and “sustainab*”. Systemic barriers limit the scalability of innovative ventures, especially in developing countries. Frugal and green innovations, digital technologies, and rural enterprises show promise but face challenges like resource constraints, ethical concerns, and policy gaps. Collaborative, equity-focused approaches are essential to ensure entrepreneurship drives sustainable and inclusive development. Further studies should expand the data source, increase the pool of articles, and develop cross-country comparisons to enhance global understanding. This may lead to a better understanding of innovative entrepreneurship and sustainability that can be used to create actionable strategies for development in various economic contexts. Full article

Background: Dentistry and nursing students experience significant anxiety, negatively impacting their well-being and academic performance. Objectives: This study aims to assess the prevalence and relationships of stress, anxiety, depression, resilience, hope, and spiritual well-being among dentistry and nursing students, identify demographic influences and propose strategies to enhance resilience and well-being. Methods: This study surveyed 271 students attending Greece’s departments of dentistry and nursing at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, using an electronic questionnaire aimed to assess stress, anxiety, and depression (depression, anxiety, stress scale—DASS-21); resilience (resilience assessment questionnaire—RAQ8, brief resilience scale—BRS); hope (adult hope scale—AHS); and spiritual well-being (functional assessment of chronic illness therapy–spiritual well-being scale—FACIT-Sp-12). The survey also collected demographic data to identify factors influencing these variables. Statistical analyses, including hierarchical multiple linear regression and t-tests, were performed to analyze the relationships between variables. Results: The sample included 145 dentistry and 126 nursing students, with 68.6% female and 80.1% undergraduate. Half of the students reported mild or higher levels of stress (48.7%), anxiety (51.3%), and depression (53.5%). The prevalence of depression was the highest in our sample, followed by anxiety and stress. Higher family wealth was associated with reduced stress levels, while female undergraduate students reported higher levels of anxiety than their male counterparts. Hope was a strong predictor of resilience, but stress and worry had a negative correlation. Conclusions: Promoting students’ well-being and academic success requires effective stress-reduction and resilience-building techniques to improve students’ performance and support future healthcare professionals’ personal sustainability and holistic growth. Full article

Climate change poses significant challenges for countries in Northern Africa such as Morocco. Smallholder farmers are especially vulnerable to climate change because they experience several challenges in the adoption of climate-resilient practices. The sustainable and well-managed cultivation of the cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) could contribute to conservation agriculture (CA) in dry climates threatened by climate change. Due to its high-water-use efficiency and ability to withstand extremely dry conditions, the cactus pear is increasingly being recognised as a more sustainable alternative to traditional livestock foraging in dryland areas. Compared to many other common crops and fodder, the cactus pear is easy to establish, maintain, and has a wealth of uses. Two innovative cultivation techniques are being developed: (1) the use of mixed inoculum formulations containing AMF (Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi) and PGPB (Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria) in the soil; and (2) intercropping between perennial (cactus pear) and short-term species (field crops). We propose to identify factors that could facilitate farmers’ innovation adoption. We conducted face-to-face interviews with 24 smallholder cactus pear farmers in Morocco. We concluded that farmers do not yet have a comprehensive understanding of the principles of the innovations. The main aim of farmers was to increase production and income. Farmers, in general, pay little attention to the environment. The recommendations that are given in relation to these issues are that training and social networks are essential in innovation transfer, adoption needs to be facilitated by providing resources, an innovation transfer needs to be adapted to the current and future needs of farmers, and we need patience so that farmers can slowly learn the innovations. Full article

Background: The global food system faces growing pressure from population growth, climate change, wealth inequity, geo-political instability, and damage to the ecosystems on which our food supply depends. Fragmentation of the priorities and needs of food system stakeholders—citizens, food producers, food industries, governments—compounds the problem, with competing or misaligned interests increasing the risk of failure to adequately meet the needs of those that form, and are served, by the food system. Growing consensus on the need for transformative system level change to address the problems facing the food system is yet to be significantly reflected in strategic action. Methods: The national food strategy of the UK is offered as an exemplar to discuss the need to promote more coherent and ambitious visions of transformative change that acknowledge the complexity of the food system as a whole. We draw upon cross-sectoral experience to distil the needs, priorities, and key food system tensions that must be acknowledged to promote transformative systems change that equitably delivers healthy sustainable diets, contributes to a resilient global food system, and protects the environment. Results: Greater coherence, ambition, and consideration of the food system as a whole are needed if a UK national food strategy is to contribute to significant transformative change. Conclusions: To promote this, we advocate for (1) a food system digital twin to model and test potential food system interventions or legislation; (2) a citizens’ forum to inform and co-develop a cohesive national food strategy; and (3) increased cohesion and integration of food system governance within government to drive a coherent, ambitious national food strategy. Full article

This study investigates the macroeconomic and financial repercussions of a real estate bubble burst in South Korea through the application of Bayesian estimation and impulse response function analysis. By utilizing this approach tailored to the specific economic conditions of South Korea, the research effectively captures the complex ripple effects across a range of financial and macroeconomic variables. The results demonstrate that a real estate bubble burst markedly increases financial market risks, leading to heightened liquidity demands within the banking sector and necessitating adjustments in both deposit rates and bond yields. The study also emphasizes the differentiated impacts on patient and impatient households, where wealth losses drive significant shifts in consumption and labor supply behaviors, further constrained by prevailing labor market conditions. Additionally, the broader economic implications are examined, revealing the adverse effects on corporate output and investment, as well as the dynamics of international capital flows that impact foreign exchange reserves and exchange rates. These findings highlight the urgent need for proactive monitoring and policy interventions to mitigate the detrimental effects of real estate bubbles, ensuring financial stability and fostering sustainable economic growth in South Korea. Full article

Sustainable growth relies on common prosperity, which is reflected in increasing total income and equitable income distribution. This study first proposes the theoretical mechanisms by which digital financial development affects residents’ total income and income distribution. After that, a two-stage generalized method of moments estimation model with endogeneity treatment is constructed to investigate the impact of digital finance on residents’ total income in 31 Chinese provinces. Moreover, Moran’s I and a spatial autoregression model are used to explore the impact of digital finance on residents’ income distribution. The results demonstrate that digital financial development can significantly contribute to the increase in residents’ total income in both urban and rural areas, thus contributing to regional sustainable wealth growth. In addition, digital finance has a spatial direct effect and a spatial spillover effect on the optimization of residents’ income distribution. This indicates that a region’s digital financial development benefits regional sustainable wealth growth, as it not only can improve residents’ income distribution within the same region but also can promote the income distribution of neighboring regions. Full article

The decades after the Second World War have seen economic growth and prosperity on an unprecedented scale. Yet this incredible turnover of raw materials and energy into goods and eventually waste has brought our planetary systems close to their limits, as witnessed most prominently, yet not exclusively, by climate change and mass extinctions. Changing towards a greener, more sustainable and circular economy without limiting our economic wealth is attractive—yet this change does not seem to be easy or speedy enough to save the planet, its eco- and social systems, and its inhabitants. In contrast, moving towards an economy less demanding on energy and raw materials, and focusing more on the pursuit of immaterial forms of satisfaction and happiness, requires an alternative form of hedonism. By cerishing quality time rather than heaps of money, and social interactions rather than material goods, even a finite planet may allow sustainable and indeed infinite forms and amounts of prosperity. Full article