Search Results (85)

The European Union Council’s zero vision aims to eliminate workplace fatalities, while Industry 4.0 presents new challenges for occupational safety. Despite HR professionals assessing managers’ and employees’ competencies, no system currently exists to evaluate the competencies of workers’ representatives in occupational safety and health (OSH). It is crucial to establish the necessary competencies for these representatives to avoid their selection based on personal bias, ambition, or coercion. The main objective of the study is to identify the competencies and their components required for workers’ representatives in the field of occupational safety and health by following the steps of the DACUM method with the assistance of OSH professionals. First, tasks were identified through semi-structured interviews conducted with eight occupational safety experts. In the second step, a focus group consisting of 34 OSH professionals (2 invited guests and 32 volunteers) determined the competencies and their components necessary to perform those tasks. Finally, the results were validated through an online questionnaire sent to the 32 volunteer participants of the focus group, from which 11 responses (34%) were received. The research categorized the competencies into the following three groups: core competencies (occupational safety and professional knowledge) and distinguishing competencies (personal attributes). Within occupational safety knowledge, 10 components were defined; for professional expertise, 7 components; and for personal attributes, 16 components. Based on the results, it was confirmed that all participants of the tripartite system have an important role in the training and development of workers’ representatives in the field of occupational safety and health. The results indicate that although OSH representation is not yet a priority in Hungary, there is a willingness to collaborate with competent, well-prepared representatives. The study emphasizes the importance of clearly defining and assessing the required competencies. Full article

Solid biomass (agro-residue) is the most important source of renewable energy. The accelerating impacts of climate change and global population growth contribute to air pollution through the use of fossil fuels. These processes increase the demand for energy. The European Union has adopted a climate action plan to address the above challenges. The main aim of this study was to assess the economic performance of the producers of biomass for energy generation in Poland. The detailed objectives were to determine land resources in the studied agricultural farms and to determine the value of fixed and current assets in the analyzed farms. We used questionnaires as the main method to collect data. Purposive sampling was used to choose the farms. We conducted various tests to analyze the revenues from biomass sales and their normality, such as the Dornik–Hansen test, the Shapiro–Wilk test, the Liliefors test, and the Jargue–Berra statistical test. Moreover, we conducted regression analysis to find factors that are the basis for the economic performance (incomes) of farms that sell biomass. Results: This study demonstrated that biomass sales had a minor impact on the performance of agricultural farms, but they enabled farmers to maintain their position on the market. The economic analysis was carried out on a representative group of Polish agricultural farms, taking into account fixed and current assets, land use, production structure, and employment. The findings indicate that a higher income from biomass sales was generally associated with better economic results per farm and per employee, although not always per hectare of land. This suggests that capital intensity and strategic resource management play a crucial role in the profitability of bioenergy-oriented agricultural production. Conclusions: We concluded that biomass sales had a negligible influence on farm income. But a small income from biomass sales could affect a farm’s economic viability. Full article

Job advertisements play a key role in human resource management as they are the first contact between employers and potential employees. A well-written job advertisement communicates not only the requirements and expectations of the position but also the culture, values, and goals of the organisation. Transparent and attractive advertisements increase the number of applicants and help to select the right candidates, leading to more efficient recruitment and selection processes in the long run. From a human resource management perspective, effective job advertising can give organisations a competitive advantage. Continuous changes in the labour market and technological developments require new competencies. Digitalisation, automation, and data-driven decision-making have brought IT, analytical, and communication skills to the fore. There is a growing emphasis on soft skills such as problem solving, flexibility, and teamwork, which are essential in a fast-changing work environment. Job advertisements should reflect these expectations so that candidates are aware of the competencies and skills required for the position. The aim of the study is to carry out a cross-country comparative analysis for a few pre-selected jobs based on data extracted from the CEDEFOP database as it is assumed that there are differences between countries in the European Union in terms of the expectations of workers for the same jobs. Full article

The modern workplace grapples with a human energy crisis, characterized by chronic exhaustion, disengagement, and emotional depletion among employees. Traditional well-being initiatives often fail to address this systemic challenge, particularly in industrial contexts. This study introduces the Human Energy Management System (HEMS), a strategic framework to develop, implement, and refine strategies for optimizing workforce energy. Grounded in Industry 5.0’s human-centric, resilient, and sustainable principles, HEMS integrates enterprise risk management (ERM), design thinking, and the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle. Employing a qualitative Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, the study reframes human energy depletion as an organizational risk, providing a proactive, empathetic, and iterative approach to mitigate workplace stressors. The HEMS framework is developed and evaluated through theoretical modeling, literature benchmarking, and secondary case studies, rather than empirical testing, aligning with DSR’s focus on conceptual validation. Findings suggest HEMS offers a robust tool to operationalize human energy reinforcement strategies in industrial settings. Consistent with the European Union’s vision for human-centric industrial transformation, HEMS enables organizations to foster a resilient, engaged, and thriving workforce in both stable and challenging times. Full article

This study conducts a macro-level comparative analysis of the eco-efficiency in the agricultural sectors of the European Union (EU) member states and Türkiye from 2003 to 2022. By treating countries as decision-making units, this research offers a holistic overview of how national-level inputs and outputs shape the aggregate performance, focusing on the trade-offs between economic value generation and environmental pressures. An input-oriented Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model, based on Variable Returns to Scale (VRS), was employed. The model employs three inputs—compensation of employees (COE), energy consumption (EC), and gross fixed capital formation (GFC)—and two outputs—agricultural gross domestic product (GDP) and GHG emissions (GGEs). All variables were normalized by agricultural land area per country to account for scale differences. The findings reveal significant disparities in the eco-efficiency across countries and over time. Notably, Türkiye consistently demonstrated a high performance, frequently serving as a benchmark. In contrast, several Eastern European countries exhibited lower scores, suggesting significant room for structural improvement at the national level. The results point to the considerable potential for reducing energy and labor inputs in many countries. Instead of offering specific policy prescriptions, this study provides a diagnostic tool that identifies national-level performance gaps, informs policy discussions on resource allocation, and highlights priority areas for more detailed investigation. Full article

In the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) context, organizations must increasingly integrate non-financial indicators into their reporting structures. The role of accounting information in establishing a comprehensive model for measuring corporate social responsibility (CSR) is critical due to its inherent characteristics. This study proposes a structured model for measuring CSR performance using accounting information systems (AIS) as an analytical and operational support tool. The research investigates the extent to which financial analysts and auditors use AIS to evaluate specific CSR indicators related to employee satisfaction, environmental impact, and customer relations and how these contribute to a global CSR index. The study is based on a quantitative survey conducted among accounting professionals in Romania using a structured questionnaire, analyzed through correlation-based models. The findings reveal a statistically significant association between AIS usage and the capacity to quantify CSR performance, with clear distinctions based on professional roles and areas of expertise. This article contributes to the literature by demonstrating how AIS can operationalize sustainability reporting frameworks and support the transition toward evidence-based CSR assessments. The proposed model offers a practical tool for organizations to improve transparency, stakeholder engagement, and strategic alignment with sustainability objectives. Full article

This research focused on the development of small farms, which in many countries form the basis of the agricultural sector. The specifics of this type of farm, as well as the way in which they operate, influence the possibilities for these farms to realise the model of sustainable agriculture. This study considers income and the rate of reproduction of fixed assets as the main measures of farm development, which are influenced by a number of endo- and exogenous factors. The research period covered 2017–2021, and the subjects of analysis were small individual farms located in Greece, Portugal, Lithuania, and Poland. The figures for the research were taken from the FADN system database. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of endogenous agricultural factors on the development of small farms as measured by farm income and reproduction of fixed assets in four selected European Union (EU) countries, i.e., Greece, Portugal, Lithuania, and Poland. Spearman’s non-parametric rank correlation method was used to assess the impact of endogenous factors. Selected on the basis of correlation relationships, the farm development factors showed a significantly higher correlation with farm income than with the reproduction of the farm’s fixed assets. The analysis indicated that, irrespective of the location of the farm, factors significantly affecting income levels included the area of agricultural land and the number of full-time employees. Only in some countries was there a statistically significant correlation between farm income and the share of leased land, the number of full-time workers per 100 ha of UAA, the share of hired labour input, as well as the level of total farm subsidies received. Full article

In the democratic structure of the EU (European Union) the representation of employers and employees is seen as an important element for the development of the economy. It is not sufficient to have a representation of these groups, but the representation of these groups is also expected to be representative. Representativeness is often seen as an equal proportional distribution of the representatives of different groups that have to be represented. Nevertheless, representativeness can also be differently approached. In this article, we examine whether sociological paradigms can help us to get a more nuanced picture of representativeness in employment relations. For this purpose, we present in paradigms developed by Max Weber, Emile Durkheim, Robert K. Merton, Talcott Parsons, and Jürgen Habermas and the exchange theory and symbolic interactionism. Subsequently, we apply these principles on some employment relations in the EU. And we finish with a discussion and conclusion, in which we support the use of a richer concept of representativeness as it is shown in some sociological paradigms. Full article

The humility at work scale was developed to provide a numeric representation of the humility at work construct, defined as one’s estimate of low to modest self-importance in the act of doing the work itself and in relation to one’s role in doing the work. In prior studies, scores yielded by the scale have shown concurrent validity with measures of predicted union outcomes. In the present study, published and unpublished sample data were used to show convergent-discriminant validity as a demonstration of construct validity stemming from item-content validity. Using principal component analysis, four distinctive item-content domains were identified as interpretable: expressive humility, supportive humility, effective humility, and appreciative humility. Represented as item-subscales, yielded scores were found to show convergent-discriminant validity with scores yielded from measures of constructs thought to be related and unrelated to the humility construct, with the exception of scores yielded by the effective humility subscale. Included are discussion points for detected and undetected scale validity with an eye on scale use in prediction models and construct applications that bear on the experience of work in reference to supervisors and subordinates whether employed as union or nonunion employees and whether employed in union or nonunion work environments. Full article

The European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive expanded its Non-Financial Reporting Directive requirements to companies with over 250 employees, mandating their sustainability reporting from 2025. This expansion will quadruple the number of companies subject to mandatory reporting, presenting new challenges for their managers and responsible employees. Companies will have to report according to the European Sustainability Reporting Standards. This article addresses gaps in vocational education and training (VET) programs related to sustainability knowledge and reporting. It aims to establish a unified approach for VET teachers and learners across the EU, preparing them for the evolving job market demands. The methodology ADDIE (Analysis/Design/Development/Implementation/Evaluation) was used to develop the curriculum and training. The research began by creating a knowledge repository and a questionnaire, focusing on current reporting practices and job requirements, and continued with preparing materials for the training course. The course encompassed six learning units: (1) European legislation and sustainability standards, (2) sustainability management, (3–5) environmental, social, and corporate dimensions, and (6) sustainability reporting. The initiative included multiplier (dissemination) events, pilot applications, and online course tests. To deliver the course effectively, an interactive e-learning platform was developed; gamification elements and other engaging activities were included to enhance learning outcomes. Full article

This article investigates the impact of rural tourism on the economy and on sustainable development in rural areas of EU member states. Rural tourism is a distinct form of tourism carried out in rural areas, which attracts tourists interested in authentic experiences, nature, and local culture. The article explores the multiple ways in which rural tourism influences the economy of rural areas. This paper seeks to identify factors that can enhance economic development in rural areas through the tourism sector. Therefore, various indicators of rural tourism and businesses operating in the accommodation sector will be analysed in order to determine their influence on gross value added. The analysis used the linear multiple regression method to determine the influence of these factors on gross value added. The analysis of the data identified that the founding countries of the European Union have a developed rural tourism activity, with the most nights spent as a tourist occurring in rural areas in France and the most rural accommodation establishments occurring in Italy. At the same time, Germany recorded the highest number of employees in the accommodation sector in 2021. Full article

The focus on environment and climate-friendly farming is increasingly important in the European Union (EU) Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Activities of the Measure M10 “Agri-environment and Climate” of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2014–2020 were those policy instruments that pursued environmental and climate goals over large areas under agricultural activities, but their effectiveness is still being questioned. After evaluating implementation successes and failures of the activities of the Measure M10 “Agri-environment and Climate” of the Lithuanian RDP 2014–2020, we aim to contribute to policy instruments that are better designed, more effective, and more attractive for farmers to achieve environmental and climate goals. This research was conducted in several stages: (1) a thorough analysis of the Measure M10 and its implementation; (2) analysis of the Measure M10 activities’ contribution to the policy target areas; (3) multi-criteria evaluation of the activities; (4) survey of beneficiaries and discussions in the focus groups. The data available from the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Lithuania, Agricultural Data Center, and National Paying Agency under Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Lithuania was used for the analysis. Analysis of the strategic documents and data on the implementation of Measure M10 was supplemented with results from studies focused on the environmental impact of the implementation of Measure M10 in Lithuania. Multi-criteria evaluation methods were used to arrange the activities of the Measure with respect to the selected indicators. The results from the survey of beneficiaries and discussions in the focus groups let us better clarify the motives, experiences, and preferences of farmers’ participation in the activities of Measure M10. The questionnaire was distributed to 2455 beneficiaries through the National Paying Agency and 342 answers were received back, i.e., 13.9%. Five discussions in focus groups, formed from farmers participating and not participating in the activities, representatives of implementing institutions, and employees of consulting and scientific institutions, were organized. The research has revealed areas for improvement in Measure M10, and suggestions for improvement were prepared to better achieve environmental and climate objectives. Full article

The economy is significantly impacted by environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks. The growth of the economy can be sped up by the effective management of ESG risks through sustainable business practices. To promote sustainable development and to secure the long-term welfare of employees, customers, and all other stakeholders in the economy, companies must adapt and reposition their business strategies and organizational cultures. The goal of this paper is to determine how a set of common ESG elements, chosen from the viewpoints of sustainability and well-being, influence economic growth in the Western Balkan countries. For each ESG component, we used different variables. The information pertains to the five Western Balkan countries of North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia. Because of a lack of data, Kosovo is excluded from the study. Then, we compared results from the analysis of the Western Balkan countries with a set of countries in Southeast Europe, which are members of the European Union and essentially coincide with the Western Europe countries. We performed multiple regression analysis with applied fixed effects to the data model. According to the study’s findings, each of the independent variables had no significant impact on the GDP’s annual growth of the Western Balkan countries, but two of the variables, life expectancy at birth and labor force participation, have certain impact on the GDP growth of Southeast Europe countries, which are members of the European Union. The green transition has gained significant importance in the Western Balkan countries as a crucial pathway toward sustainable economic growth, though it introduces a range of new social and economic challenges. Economically, these nations are confronted with considerable funding requirements for development. To build sustainable societies, it would be beneficial for these countries to explore more creative financing strategies. It is advised to establish financing frameworks that not only increase the transparency in policymaking but also ensure greater accountability in their execution. Full article

This paper presents the conceptual design of the HumanEnerg Hotspot, an agile toolkit aimed at addressing the human energy crisis in the context of Industry 5.0. The toolkit has been developed using a blend of Design Science Research (DSR) and Human-Centered Design (HCD) methodologies, enabling a comprehensive human-centered problem identification and solution-seeking approach. The toolkit includes a variety of strategies, techniques, frameworks, and resource recommendations for industry use and has been designed to be easily adaptable for use in diverse industry settings. The toolkit is intended to support the European Union’s goal for industry to influence society through a human-centric approach to Industry 5.0 by prioritizing human energy reinforcement and creating a more resilient and productive workforce. The toolkit provides a valuable resource for employees and managers alike and offers a promising solution for addressing the human energy crisis in the era of Industry 5.0. Full article

In the rapidly evolving digital environment, organizations face increasing pressure to adapt to technological advancements while ensuring long-term sustainability. This study was motivated by the critical need to understand how human resource (HR) leadership can effectively foster digital skills development to drive economic sustainable development. Recognizing that digital competencies are now essential for organizational resilience and competitiveness, this research explores the interplay between HR leadership, digital skills acquisition, and economic sustainable development. This study employed the SERVQUAL tool to assess gaps between employee expectations and perceptions across key demographic variables, including age, education level, and employment status. Data collected from 476 participants across several European Union countries underscore the significant influence of demographic factors on these perceptions. The findings reveal a high alignment between employee expectations and perceptions, reflecting the importance of HR leadership in bridging the digital skills gap. Moreover, this study highlights the necessity of integrating HR leadership practices to ensure that digital transformation contributes not only to immediate organizational goals but also to long-term economic sustainable development. This research provides valuable insights into the role of HR leadership in navigating the challenges of the digital era, ultimately offering a framework for fostering a skilled, adaptable, and sustainably oriented workforce. Full article