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World, Volume 5, Issue 2 (June 2024) – 16 articles

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12 pages, 245 KiB  
Article
OurSCARA: Awareness-Based Recommendation Services for Sustainable Tourism
by Luong Vuong Nguyen
World 2024, 5(2), 471-482; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020024 - 14 Jun 2024
Viewed by 954
Abstract
Sustainable tourism has emerged as a critical concern in contemporary society due to its potential to mitigate negative environmental and socio-cultural impacts associated with traditional tourism practices. In this context, recommendation systems (RS) are crucial in shaping travelers’ choices toward sustainable options. This [...] Read more.
Sustainable tourism has emerged as a critical concern in contemporary society due to its potential to mitigate negative environmental and socio-cultural impacts associated with traditional tourism practices. In this context, recommendation systems (RS) are crucial in shaping travelers’ choices toward sustainable options. This research article proposes an innovative approach to RS tailored for sustainable tourism, termed Sustainability and Cultural Awareness-based Recommendation Algorithm (OurSCARA). OurSCARA integrates awareness of environmental and socio-cultural factors (sustainability attributes) into the recommendation process to facilitate informed decision-making by travelers. The system leverages data analytics techniques, including sentiment analysis, user profiling, and collaborative filtering (CF), to personalize recommendations based on users’ preferences, sustainability preferences, and contextual factors. Furthermore, OurSCARA incorporates real-time data sources such as weather conditions, local events, and community initiatives to enhance the relevance and timeliness of recommendations. A prototype implementation of OurSCARA is presented, along with a comprehensive evaluation framework to assess its effectiveness in promoting sustainable tourism behaviors. Through empirical evaluation using datasets collected from TripAdivsor, we demonstrate the potential of OurSCARA to influence traveler behavior towards more sustainable choices while enhancing their overall tourism experience. The findings underscore the significance of integrating sustainability considerations into RS and pave the way for future research and development in this emerging area at the intersection of computer science and sustainable tourism. Full article
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18 pages, 3774 KiB  
Article
Challenges and Opportunities for the Development of Polish Enterprises in the Face of Crisis Threats
by Anna Sobczak and Ewa Chomać-Pierzecka
World 2024, 5(2), 453-470; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020023 - 11 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1169
Abstract
Enterprises are currently facing difficult decisions due to the threats caused by the ongoing economic crisis, the war in Ukraine, and inflation. Due to broken supply chains, companies are struggling with rising costs and problems in the supply of raw materials. The economies [...] Read more.
Enterprises are currently facing difficult decisions due to the threats caused by the ongoing economic crisis, the war in Ukraine, and inflation. Due to broken supply chains, companies are struggling with rising costs and problems in the supply of raw materials. The economies have turned towards local markets. Companies are looking for ways to become independent from global suppliers and are trying to look for those who offer similar goods but in closer proximity to diversify supplies. Difficulties in recruiting appropriate staff cause problems related to staff turnover and changes in the organizational culture of the company. The research shows that companies focus less on strategies for entering new markets and focus on waiting out the difficult period and generating as few losses as possible. Companies that were already struggling with problems and did not manage to return to the pre-pandemic state after the pandemic are starting to implement a strategy of survival in the market. As research by other researchers indicates, innovation and the creation of new products are strongly related to the crisis. Companies, faced with changing market rules, are looking for new solutions. Companies that have been operating in the market longer cope better with changes and are more prepared for crises than young enterprises. Full article
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40 pages, 8903 KiB  
Article
Cambodian Green Economy Transition: Background, Progress, and SWOT Analysis
by Puthearath Chan
World 2024, 5(2), 413-452; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020022 - 10 Jun 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2163
Abstract
A green economy is not a common economic practice. This leads the governments in many countries to focus on institutional arrangement and policy development. The institutional arrangement is one of the main significant factors, while green economy policies have to be well developed [...] Read more.
A green economy is not a common economic practice. This leads the governments in many countries to focus on institutional arrangement and policy development. The institutional arrangement is one of the main significant factors, while green economy policies have to be well developed to support stakeholders and put less pressure on local communities. Hence, this research aims to understand green economic development in Cambodia by focusing on institutional arrangements and green economic development policies. Thus, this research’s priority was to evaluate their background and progress, and a comprehensive SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis was conducted based on their progress/transition. This research conducted background, progress, and SWOT analyses based on (i) the government’s documents, including the code, laws, royal decrees, sub-decrees, prakas, policies, strategic plans, roadmaps, and reports; (ii) development partners’ reports from reliable sources, such as UN agencies, UN Programs, ASEAN, the Asian Development Bank, and the World Bank; and (iii) existing literature. This research presented the results and discussed the findings encompassed by political and economic conditions, institutional arrangement and capacities, policy development and coordination, and participation of the public and stakeholders, as well as global green cooperation and funding, which were conditioned by the experiences from the COVID-19 pandemic and the uncertainties resulting from global geopolitical conflicts, such as the Russian–Ukrainian conflicts. Moreover, this research discussed weaknesses against strengths and threats against opportunities to suggest solutions or implications. Full article
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19 pages, 323 KiB  
Article
“Will They Always Have Paris?”: Observing, Understanding, and Informally Engaging with Undocumented African Souvenir Sellers at the Eiffel Tower
by Scooter Pégram
World 2024, 5(2), 394-412; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020021 - 7 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1262
Abstract
The Eiffel Tower is an enduring symbol, and people from around the world dream of travelling to Paris to gaze at it. Walking amongst the millions of tourists who visit the famous site each year are an enterprising group of African souvenir vendors [...] Read more.
The Eiffel Tower is an enduring symbol, and people from around the world dream of travelling to Paris to gaze at it. Walking amongst the millions of tourists who visit the famous site each year are an enterprising group of African souvenir vendors whose livelihoods rely on the sales of miniature versions of the structure. As visibly omnipresent as these sellers are at the tower, their experience as undocumented migrants working unofficially makes them invisible. For the Paris authorities, the mere presence of Africans offering cheap keepsakes at the Eiffel Tower is considered an illegal nuisance that must be eradicated. No matter, recurrent police interventions have failed to cease the unauthorised souvenir market. Because these independent entrepreneurs are neither wanted nor welcomed, Africans selling trinkets at the iconic Parisian site face daily challenges. Until now, no one has ever investigated or profoundly surveyed their experience working at one of the most-visited places in the world. This study aims to demystify this unique group of Africans in Paris after observing and informally engaging with them directly concerning various topics. Despite the demur realities confronting them as undocumented migrants living clandestinely in a country that does not want them, these migrants remain hopeful for the future. Full article
29 pages, 2695 KiB  
Systematic Review
Immigrant Consumption Behaviors: A Systematic Integrative Review and Future Research Agenda
by Carson Duan
World 2024, 5(2), 365-393; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020020 - 30 May 2024
Viewed by 1127
Abstract
This article explores the concept of “immigrant consumption behavior (ICB)” in the context of its holistic surroundings. The study investigated the current dynamics and scientometrics of the research field regarding immigrant consumption behaviors. Using an integrative approach employing bibliometric and content analysis, it [...] Read more.
This article explores the concept of “immigrant consumption behavior (ICB)” in the context of its holistic surroundings. The study investigated the current dynamics and scientometrics of the research field regarding immigrant consumption behaviors. Using an integrative approach employing bibliometric and content analysis, it scrutinized a collection of 224 studies from the Web of Science and Scopus databases to detect the field evolution, disciplinary distribution thematic map, and emerging trends in the ICB literature, as well as to forecast research directions. The results showed that ICB is a multi- and inter-disciplinary research area that experienced three phases of growth between 1989 and 2023: initiation (1989–2006), development (2007–2012), and consolidation (2013–now). The thematic analysis revealed five current trends, i.e., (1) the immigrant consumption behavior domain, (2) the demographic sub-groups of immigrants and related consuming products, (3) country-, region-, and cultural-focused studies, (4) the effects of culture and the acculturation process, and (5) the impact of urbanization. Each theme contains a number of sub-themes. Based on the current thematic evolution and keyword burst analysis, this paper suggests a number of critical research directions, comprising (1) observatory studies including remittances, China, ethnic minorities, lifestyle, inequality, urbanization, and food consumption; (2) context-based studies focused on socioeconomic, cultural, legal, and environmental factors; (3) studies based on compensatory and compromissory consumption behavior; (4) studies focused on sustainable and green consumption behaviors; and (5) studies regarding the behavior of specific demographic co-ethnic communities. The results have great implications for developing interventions and programs that can support immigrant populations in making appropriate consumption patterns and adapting to new cultural environments. The paper pushes forward the ICB investigation from individual empirical studies to synthesis-based research, which (1) provides an ample overview of the ICB literature, (2) identifies research priorities, emerging trends, and gaps, (3) proposes new research avenues for investigation, and (4) outlines expected contributions. The research contributes to a variety of disciplines through the provision of new knowledge, since ICB studies are multidisciplinary in nature. It also has numerous implications for policymakers and practitioners. Full article
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19 pages, 880 KiB  
Article
Digital Technology as a Disentangling Force for Women Entrepreneurs
by Aidin Salamzadeh, Léo-Paul Dana, Javad Ghaffari Feyzabadi, Morteza Hadizadeh and Haleh Eslahi Fatmesari
World 2024, 5(2), 346-364; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020019 - 29 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1995
Abstract
This study investigates the empowering potential of digital technologies for women entrepreneurs, a transformative force that transcends all fields of knowledge. It specifically examines how technology can equip women to overcome socio-cultural and economic barriers, focusing on the case of Iran. The research [...] Read more.
This study investigates the empowering potential of digital technologies for women entrepreneurs, a transformative force that transcends all fields of knowledge. It specifically examines how technology can equip women to overcome socio-cultural and economic barriers, focusing on the case of Iran. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, utilizing a literature review within the qualitative framework to identify key empowerment drivers. Subsequently, a quantitative approach leverages DEMATEL to pinpoint the most impactful drivers. This investigation aims to provide stakeholders with actionable insights, highlighting the critical role of technology in fostering equitable and sustainable economic advancement for women entrepreneurs. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of gathering information from a developing nation like Iran, as its findings can hold significant implications for other countries experiencing similar developmental stages. Ultimately, the research seeks to inform the creation of effective policies, support initiatives, and educational programs. These interventions aim to empower women entrepreneurs to leverage digital tools for sustainable business growth, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and environmentally conscious future. Full article
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21 pages, 1494 KiB  
Review
Plastic and Micro/Nanoplastic Pollution in Sub-Saharan Africa: Challenges, Impacts, and Solutions
by Edith Dube and Grace Emily Okuthe
World 2024, 5(2), 325-345; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020018 - 15 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2173
Abstract
Sub-Saharan Africa faces increasing levels of plastic production and importation, unregulated usage, and inadequate waste management systems. This region’s harsh conditions often lead to plastic breaking down into microplastics and nanoplastics. This review explores the abundance of micro/nanoplastics across different environmental mediums, such [...] Read more.
Sub-Saharan Africa faces increasing levels of plastic production and importation, unregulated usage, and inadequate waste management systems. This region’s harsh conditions often lead to plastic breaking down into microplastics and nanoplastics. This review explores the abundance of micro/nanoplastics across different environmental mediums, such as surface waters, sediments, and aquatic organisms, in sub-Saharan African countries. It also highlights knowledge gaps concerning the region’s abundance of micro/nanoplastics. The effects of plastics and micro/nanoplastics on food production, water quality, health, and the environment are discussed. Strategies to address the challenges of plastic pollution are proposed. Finally, the review concludes with future perspectives for addressing the ongoing challenges of plastic waste management in sub-Saharan Africa. The materials for this study were sourced from published articles on Scopus, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and additional platforms, including reports and various press releases, using keywords such as plastic waste, micro/nano-plastic, sub-Saharan Africa, toxicity, and circular economy. Articles were initially screened by reviewing abstracts, followed by a thorough reading of full papers to identify relevant studies. Key information was extracted from these selected articles and incorporated into this review. Full article
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12 pages, 2737 KiB  
Article
Let the Trees ‘Talk’: Giving Voice to Nature through an Immersive Experience
by Rob Roggema
World 2024, 5(2), 313-324; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020017 - 13 May 2024
Viewed by 1187
Abstract
Current decision-making regarding urban design, architecture, and spatial planning often
emphasizes existing power balances, which historically have excluded other humans, such as
indigenous people, and nature from conversations and decision-making. The purpose of this study
is to explore if and how an empathic [...] Read more.
Current decision-making regarding urban design, architecture, and spatial planning often
emphasizes existing power balances, which historically have excluded other humans, such as
indigenous people, and nature from conversations and decision-making. The purpose of this study
is to explore if and how an empathic experience could give insights into how nature can be given
a voice, and, more concretely, how a group of trees on the TEC campus in Monterrey would feel
about a sudden change in their direct environment. The methodology is divided into three parts.
The first is the explanation of the case study and immersion of the (human) participants in the site.
The second stage consists of deep listening and reproducing the imagined expressions of the trees.
In the third stage, the participants return from the site, evaluate, and formulate a manifesto. The
experience suggests that it is possible to inspire human beings to imagine what trees would have to
say if we only imagined their language. It also shows that it is possible to gain access to a formerly
hidden environment. The conclusion is that the empathic access to these formerly muted worlds,
such as those of nature or socially marginalized peoples, can strengthen our understanding of, and
our ability to resolve, the current environmental crisis. Full article
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20 pages, 1264 KiB  
Article
Crab Harvesting, Sustainability Issues, and International Trade: Insights from Russia
by Andrey Belov
World 2024, 5(2), 293-312; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020016 - 10 May 2024
Viewed by 1319
Abstract
This article aims to analyze Russia’s efforts, both domestically and internationally, to combat illicit crab harvesting and safeguard its marine resources. A comparison of total crab imports and allowable catch in Russian waters from 1990 to 2022 indicates a peak in shadow activities [...] Read more.
This article aims to analyze Russia’s efforts, both domestically and internationally, to combat illicit crab harvesting and safeguard its marine resources. A comparison of total crab imports and allowable catch in Russian waters from 1990 to 2022 indicates a peak in shadow activities during the mid-2000s, with a cessation of large-scale illegal fishing observed since 2013. A narrative analysis of institutional shifts reveals that the bolstering of internal oversight, heightened accountability for harvesters, and enhanced global cooperation have been pivotal in fostering these positive dynamics. Concerning trends, however, emerged towards the beginning of the current decade, indicating potential instability within the legal framework of the crab industry. Persistent statistical discrepancies in trade with South Korea, diminishing institutional capacities within Russia to combat shadow activities, and heightened media scrutiny of illicit crab harvesting underscore the need for sustained vigilance in addressing both internal and external dimensions of this multifaceted problem. Full article
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17 pages, 1411 KiB  
Systematic Review
Autonomous Ships: A Thematic Review
by Ruhaimatu Abudu and Raj Bridgelall
World 2024, 5(2), 276-292; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020015 - 28 Apr 2024
Viewed by 2514
Abstract
Ships connect the global economy through maritime transport. However, their susceptibility to increasing geopolitical conflicts has heightened concerns about the risks to crew safety and navigation security. This systematic literature review (SLR), utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) [...] Read more.
Ships connect the global economy through maritime transport. However, their susceptibility to increasing geopolitical conflicts has heightened concerns about the risks to crew safety and navigation security. This systematic literature review (SLR), utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, rigorously examines the safety and security of autonomous ships in maritime transport. The methodology employs a comprehensive search across major databases including Scopus, Google Scholar, and Science Direct, based on explicit inclusion criteria focusing on recent advancements from 2014 to 2023. By methodically analyzing 58 relevant publications screened from an initial pool of 1407, this paper highlights critical trends and gaps in the application of advanced sensor technologies, cybersecurity measures, and autonomous navigation systems. The findings provide insights into the operational challenges and technological developments shaping the future of maritime safety and security, offering valuable guidance for policymakers and industry stakeholders. This research contributes to scholarly discourse in this industry by mapping the trajectory of technological integration and its implications for maritime operations in a global context. Full article
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18 pages, 3811 KiB  
Article
Data-Driven Strategies for Optimizing Albania’s Utilization of Renewable Energy Sources from Urban Waste: Current Status and Future Prospects
by Sonila Vito, Ilirjana Boci, Mohammad Gheibi, Klodian Dhoska, Ilirjan Malollari, Elmaz Shehu, Reza Moezzi and Andres Annuk
World 2024, 5(2), 258-275; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020014 - 26 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1272
Abstract
Albania is now implementing a range of steps as part of its journey towards European Union integration, based on agreements that have been achieved. Key to these initiatives is the extensive adoption of circular economy concepts through comprehensive waste management systems. This collaboration [...] Read more.
Albania is now implementing a range of steps as part of its journey towards European Union integration, based on agreements that have been achieved. Key to these initiatives is the extensive adoption of circular economy concepts through comprehensive waste management systems. This collaboration is based on systematically implementing measures that align with the fundamental principles of the waste management hierarchy. Albania wants to lead in waste-to-energy conversion exploration by focusing on trash minimization, reuse, recycling, and energy generation from residual waste. Although there has been notable advancement, especially in aligning laws with EU requirements, there are practical obstacles, especially in the execution of waste-to-energy projects. The challenges involve the need for effective waste segregation, higher recycling rates, and the use of advanced waste-to-energy technologies. The essay utilizes meticulously selected data on Albania’s waste generation from reputable organizations and the legal framework regulating waste management to assess the current situation and predict future possibilities, which may be advantageous for government ministries and agency platforms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Data-Driven Strategic Approaches to Public Management)
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18 pages, 42465 KiB  
Article
From Glimmer to Grind: Unveiling the Conflict Potential of South Kalimantan’s Diamonds
by Rochgiyanti Rochgiyanti, Deasy Arisanty, Ismi Rajiani, Karunia Puji Hastuti, Jumriani Jumriani and Muhammad Muhaimin
World 2024, 5(2), 240-257; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020013 - 24 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1098
Abstract
This study delves into the intricate social dynamics of South Kalimantan’s traditional diamond mines, revealing a potential for conflict amidst the promise of economic uplift. South Kalimantan is one of the provinces in Indonesia, known nationwide for its diamond production. Going beyond conventional [...] Read more.
This study delves into the intricate social dynamics of South Kalimantan’s traditional diamond mines, revealing a potential for conflict amidst the promise of economic uplift. South Kalimantan is one of the provinces in Indonesia, known nationwide for its diamond production. Going beyond conventional economic and environmental perspectives, the research employs Galtung’s Conflict Theory, examining the interplay of attitudes, behaviours, norms, values, and political influences. By adopting this nuanced approach, the study unveils hidden fault lines within these communities, providing a comprehensive understanding of how diverse factors converge to create discord. The consequences of unaddressed conflict include shattered livelihoods, environmental degradation, and fractured communities. The study employs rigorous quantitative methods to empower stakeholders in proactive conflict management, including questionnaires and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with data from 400 respondents. The findings underscore the significant roles of behaviours, attitudes, norms, and politics in fueling tension, with values demonstrating surprisingly less direct influence. This insight is a roadmap for conflict prevention and sustainable development, allowing stakeholders to tailor interventions based on specific conflict-driving factors. The study urges a shift from reactive to proactive measures, envisioning a future where prosperity continues and communities thrive in harmony, free from conflict. Full article
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21 pages, 1890 KiB  
Review
A Review of Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Their Application in Sustainable Solid Waste Management
by Benett Siyabonga Madonsela, Khomotso Semenya and Karabo Shale
World 2024, 5(2), 219-239; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020012 - 12 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1957
Abstract
Indigenous communities have always used their knowledge systems to improve their quality of life. For example, rural communities’ resort to indigenous cultural practices to manage their own waste when local administration lacks coordinated ways to manage waste. In the context of indigenous knowledge [...] Read more.
Indigenous communities have always used their knowledge systems to improve their quality of life. For example, rural communities’ resort to indigenous cultural practices to manage their own waste when local administration lacks coordinated ways to manage waste. In the context of indigenous knowledge systems, the idea of waste is non-existent. As indigenous knowledge is believed to provide a holistic framework for an approach that effectively promotes sustainability. As such, the current study conducted a systematic review to evaluate the extent to which indigenous solid waste management practices contribute to sustainable waste disposal methods. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines, a literature search was carried out in the field of indigenous solid waste management practices. The results indicate a significant imbalance in the amount of conclusive evidence that has been produced to date that suggests the sustainability of indigenous solid waste management practices. It is for this reason that the current study has discovered a substantial literature gap in sustainable solid waste management associated with indigenous knowledge systems. This is an unprecedented trend, especially for a knowledge system that is supposed to promote sustainability practices. However, to improve the likelihood of incorporating indigenous solid waste disposal methods into modern practices, it is imperative to understand the foundational elements that contribute to the advancement of sustainability, lest the sustainability aspect associated with this knowledge system in the discipline of solid waste management remain a mere rhetoric. Full article
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27 pages, 1235 KiB  
Systematic Review
Unlocking Energy from Waste: A Comprehensive Analysis of Municipal Solid Waste Recovery Potential in Ghana
by Abdul-Wahab Tahiru, Samuel Jerry Cobbina, Wilhemina Asare and Silas Uwumborge Takal
World 2024, 5(2), 192-218; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020011 - 1 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3000
Abstract
Ghana is currently facing a waste crisis that presents considerable risks to its environment, economy, and public health. This investigation evaluates four prospective waste-to-energy options—namely, incineration, anaerobic digestion, gasification, and landfill gas—with the objective of mapping out a sustainable strategy for efficient waste [...] Read more.
Ghana is currently facing a waste crisis that presents considerable risks to its environment, economy, and public health. This investigation evaluates four prospective waste-to-energy options—namely, incineration, anaerobic digestion, gasification, and landfill gas—with the objective of mapping out a sustainable strategy for efficient waste management. Among these solutions, anaerobic digestion stands out as a superior option, offering renewable energy production, valuable bio-product creation, and a comparatively lower greenhouse gas emission effect. A cost analysis further reveals that utilizing biogas from anaerobic digestion is not only environmentally friendly but also economically more viable than relying on light crude oil. Producing 200 MW of energy using biogas costs 36% less, potentially resulting in monthly savings of USD 5.46 million for Ghana. However, several obstacles impede the development of WtE. Inaccurate waste data and a lack of clear policies on waste-to-energy hinder the harnessing of Ghana’s WtE potential. To address this, the study recommends (1) implementing a well-defined national strategy complete with regulations and incentives to attract investments and (2) conducting specialized research to optimize WtE technologies for Ghana’s unique waste composition and context. By surmounting these challenges, Ghana stands poised to secure a sustainable future, simultaneously meeting the targets of Sustainable Development Goals 7 and 11. This entails ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all (SDG 7) and fostering inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and human settlements (SDG 11). Full article
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19 pages, 695 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of the Determinants of Entrepreneurial Activities in the Middle East and Latin America
by Irery L. Melchor-Duran and Allan Villegas-Mateos
World 2024, 5(2), 173-191; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020010 - 27 Mar 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1185
Abstract
This study aims to contribute to advancing the understanding of entrepreneurial ecosystems, Latin American development, and the evolution and future perspectives of the Middle East. It used a cross-sectional research design and quantitative data with 750 observations from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, specifically [...] Read more.
This study aims to contribute to advancing the understanding of entrepreneurial ecosystems, Latin American development, and the evolution and future perspectives of the Middle East. It used a cross-sectional research design and quantitative data with 750 observations from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, specifically the National Experts Survey and the Adult Population Survey. The results were analyzed by the Partial Least Squares Technique (PLS-SEM) by grouping countries into two balanced samples of underexplored regions: the Middle East and Latin America. The two regions, Latin America and the Middle East, have diverse entrepreneurial ecosystems; each condition impacts entrepreneurial activities in different ways. In Latin America, the most significant variable is “Physical Infrastructure”, while in the Middle East, the most significant determinants are “Commercial and Professional Infrastructure” and “Entrepreneurship Culture”. This study shows that to support entrepreneurial activities, each region requires different settings for their entrepreneurial ecosystems. It contributes to the literature on regional entrepreneurial ecosystems and to less explored regions to advance our understanding, which will drive better policies and actions. Full article
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18 pages, 477 KiB  
Article
Training Future Managers to Address the Challenges of Sustainable Development: An Innovative, Interdisciplinary, and Multiregional Experience on Corporate Sustainability Education
by Rosley Anholon, Tiago F. A. C. Sigahi, Gustavo Tietz Cazeri, Patricia Fernanda da Silva Siltori, Wagner Luiz Lourenzani, Eduardo Guilherme Satolo, Adriana Cristina Ferreira Caldana, Gustavo Hermínio Salati Marcondes de Moraes, Vitor William Batista Martins and Izabela Simon Rampasso
World 2024, 5(2), 155-172; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020009 - 24 Mar 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1999
Abstract
This paper presents an innovative experience involving students and professors from diverse backgrounds and regions that was designed to integrate corporate sustainability (CS) knowledge into undergraduate programs. An action research approach was adopted, with the course running over one semester. The course involved [...] Read more.
This paper presents an innovative experience involving students and professors from diverse backgrounds and regions that was designed to integrate corporate sustainability (CS) knowledge into undergraduate programs. An action research approach was adopted, with the course running over one semester. The course involved 146 students with diverse academic backgrounds from universities across Brazil along with eight professors from Brazil, Chile, and South Africa. The proposed approach provides actionable insights into the integration of sustainability concepts in the higher educational setting, thereby contributing to the development of a more environmentally and socially conscious generation of professionals. The learning outcomes are discussed in the light of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Agenda, particularly SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), and SDG 13 (climate action). In addition, it is important to highlight that the dissemination of the course’s key features can be useful for universities, professors, and researchers engaged in training future professionals capable of addressing real-world problems of innovation and sustainability. By employing an action research methodology and fostering collaboration among students and professors with diverse academic backgrounds and from different countries, including Brazil, Chile, and South Africa, this paper presents a multiregional and interdisciplinary perspective that sets it apart from conventional practices. The emphasis on providing actionable insights and its potential applicability for universities, professors, and researchers involved in training future professionals further underscore its distinctive contribution to education for sustainable development. Full article
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