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17 pages, 2268 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Sustainable Innovation of AI: Text Mining the Core Capabilities of Researchers in the Digital Age of Industry 4.0

by Yajun Ji, Shengtai Zhang, Fang Han, Ran Cui and Tao Jiang

Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7767; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177767 - 6 Sep 2024

Viewed by 883

Abstract

Sustainable innovation in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) is essential for the development of Industry 4.0. Recognizing the innovation abilities of researchers is fundamental to achieving sustainable innovation within organizations. This study proposes a method for identifying the core innovative competency field [...] Read more.

Sustainable innovation in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) is essential for the development of Industry 4.0. Recognizing the innovation abilities of researchers is fundamental to achieving sustainable innovation within organizations. This study proposes a method for identifying the core innovative competency field of researchers through text mining, which involves the extraction of core competency tags, topic clustering, and calculating the relevance between researchers and topics. Using AI as a case study, the research identifies the core innovative competency field of researchers, uncovers opportunities for sustainable innovation, and highlights key innovators. This approach offers deeper insights for AI R&D activities, providing effective support for promoting sustainable innovation. Compared to traditional expertise identification methods, this approach provides a more in-depth and detailed portrayal of researchers’ expertise, particularly highlighting potential innovation domains with finer granularity. It is less influenced by subjective factors and can be conveniently applied to identify the core innovative competency field of researchers in any other research field, making it especially suitable for interdisciplinary areas. By offering a precise and comprehensive understanding of researchers’ capability fields, this method enhances the strategic planning and execution of innovative projects, ensuring that organizations can effectively leverage the expertise of their researchers to drive forward sustainable innovation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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28 pages, 4823 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Environmental Sustainability: Risk Assessment and Management Strategies for Urban Light Pollution

by Xinru Li, Wei Lu, Wang Ye and Chenyu Ye

Sustainability 2024, 16(14), 5997; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16145997 - 13 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1463

Abstract

Light pollution imposes significant and far-reaching adverse effects on human society, necessitating its stringent regulation. However, intervention policies could be customized to suit the unique characteristics of each region, taking into account local conditions. To address this challenge, we have developed a comprehensive [...] Read more.

Light pollution imposes significant and far-reaching adverse effects on human society, necessitating its stringent regulation. However, intervention policies could be customized to suit the unique characteristics of each region, taking into account local conditions. To address this challenge, we have developed a comprehensive light pollution risk assessment model using a combination of objective and subjective weighting methods, including analytic hierarchy process (AHP), independent weighting method (IWM), entropy weight method (EWM), coefficient of variation (CV), criteria importance through intercriteria correlation (CRITIC), and principal component analysis (PCA). This model facilitates a systematic evaluation of light pollution risk levels across diverse regions in China. Subsequently, we have proposed intervention policies targeting light pollution risk reduction and assessed their efficacy using the synthetic control method. Our findings reveal elevated light pollution risk levels in coastal and mountainous regions with heightened concentrations closer to urban centers. Strategies focused on enhancing lighting hardware, optimizing lighting schedules, and upgrading light sources demonstrated the impact on reducing light pollution risk levels (LPRL). This study not only lays a solid theoretical foundation for assessing urban light pollution risks but furnishes empirical evidence to aid relevant authorities in formulating effective light pollution control strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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20 pages, 280 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Perspective on Strategic Choices for the Survival and Development of Energy Enterprises: An Analysis of Market Power, Innovation Strategy, and Sustainable Development of Major Multinational Oil Companies

by Chunliang Guo, Jiawen Zhang and Na Li

Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 3067; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16073067 - 7 Apr 2024

Viewed by 1650

Abstract

As global economic recession and deterioration of the ecological environment become increasingly prominent, every responsible enterprise, especially the energy enterprises with more environmental controversies, will be faced with the most difficult choice regarding sustainable operation in history: market power expansion strategy, or technological [...] Read more.

As global economic recession and deterioration of the ecological environment become increasingly prominent, every responsible enterprise, especially the energy enterprises with more environmental controversies, will be faced with the most difficult choice regarding sustainable operation in history: market power expansion strategy, or technological innovation strategy? Most of the literature supports the finding that the former can occupy the market advantage and obtain the current market survival, but the future potential is low, while the latter reduces the firm’s negative externality and gains future competitiveness, but current profits are reduced. This paper proposes a new perspective to evaluate the “sustainable development of enterprises” and then constructs a new measurement model, using a linear regression model for empirical analysis, which provides technical support and guidance for energy enterprises facing this decision-making dilemma. For further research, we have proposed more practical business management strategies for the sustainable development of petrochemical companies in developing countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

19 pages, 3160 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Greening Service Capacity in Telecom Supply Chain under Environmental Regulation

by Ying Shi, Tianjian Yang, Yu Zhang and Rong Ma

Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2924; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072924 - 31 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1160

Abstract

Comprehensive understandings about how to realize service capability greenness in the telecom sector are still rare. In this paper, a non-serial telecom supply chain consisting of an infrastructure supplier, a content provider and a telecom operator is formulated under environmental regulation. The telecom [...] Read more.

Comprehensive understandings about how to realize service capability greenness in the telecom sector are still rare. In this paper, a non-serial telecom supply chain consisting of an infrastructure supplier, a content provider and a telecom operator is formulated under environmental regulation. The telecom operator aims to find the optimal green procurement ratio between traditional and green equipment. Some common real-life situations are assumed, and the service capacity greenness problems are solved by game theory regarding coordination and interaction among supply chain partners. The results show that the prevailing concern of managers’ “energy saving is not money saving” is the direct reason for a mixed purchase strategy. Further, when diseconomy of purchasing energy-saving equipment reaches a certain threshold, tightening environmental regulation may cause telecom companies to reduce the proportion of energy-saving equipment purchased. Finally, the telecom sector is characterized by its booming service capacity per equipment, which benefits green purchase ratio greatly. When the other six influencing factors are relatively stable, the driving force of telecommunication technology update will push the telecom sector to a greener future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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19 pages, 260 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Sustainability of Corporate ESG Performance: An Empirical Study

by Kezhi Yang, Tingting Zhang and Chenyun Ye

Sustainability 2024, 16(6), 2377; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16062377 - 13 Mar 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5777

Abstract

A company’s ESG (environmental, social, and government) performance is an indicator of its sustainable development. In practice, enterprises should focus on improving their governance structure and improving their governance level to achieve sustainable development and long-term value. Based on a sample of China’s [...] Read more.

A company’s ESG (environmental, social, and government) performance is an indicator of its sustainable development. In practice, enterprises should focus on improving their governance structure and improving their governance level to achieve sustainable development and long-term value. Based on a sample of China’s A-share-listed companies from 2014 to 2022, this paper obtains data from the WIND and CSMAR databases and finally selects 14,757 observed values. With ESG performance as the explained variable and Pledge as the explanatory variable, the relationship between major shareholders’ equity pledges and ESG performance is explored using a regression analysis. The results show that the correlation coefficient, β1, between corporate ESG performance and the pledge ratio of major shareholders is −0.0167, which is significantly negative at the 1% level, indicating that the equity pledges of major shareholders will have a negative impact on corporate ESG performance, and ESG performance shows that the pressure of controlling shareholders’ equity pledges mainly reduces the performance of companies in the areas of social responsibility (S) and governance (G) and does not have a significant impact on environmental construction (E). Further research shows that under the same conditions, compared with state-owned enterprises, the equity pledge behavior of major shareholders of private enterprises has a more significant impact on corporate ESG performance. This study is a good attempt at examining the sustainability of corporate ESG performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

14 pages, 528 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Practices and Performance of Resource-Based Companies: The Role of Internal Control

by Xiao Liu, Huanxue Pan, Weixing Lin, Mengkai Wang and Qiange Zhang

Sustainability 2024, 16(4), 1399; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16041399 - 7 Feb 2024

Viewed by 1351

Abstract

As the concept of sustainable resource usage gains popularity, resource-based companies are faced with the challenge of reconciling environmental responsibility with corporate performance to achieve the “coexistence” of environmental and economic benefits. We take data related to RBCs for 2010–2020 and perform a [...] Read more.

As the concept of sustainable resource usage gains popularity, resource-based companies are faced with the challenge of reconciling environmental responsibility with corporate performance to achieve the “coexistence” of environmental and economic benefits. We take data related to RBCs for 2010–2020 and perform a multiple regression analysis of the data. This study focuses on the role of internal control in analyzing the impact of resource-based companies (RBCs) on corporate financial performance (CFP) while assuming corporate environmental responsibility (CER). The findings reveal that the fulfillment of CER by RBCs positively impacts CFP. We then add a moderating test to observe the role of internal controls in the relationship between the two. The results show that the positive effect of CER on CFP is greater with stronger internal control measures. In addition, we introduce heterogeneity analysis to analyze the effect of firm ownership. The moderating effect is diminished in privately owned companies. This research provides empirical evidence for the moderating effect of internal control on the connection between CER and CFP while also considering the influence of ownership. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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28 pages, 11257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Innovation Ecosystem with Multi-Layered Heterogeneous Networks of Global 5G Communication Technology

by Xiaohang Zhang, Ran Cui and Yajun Ji

Sustainability 2024, 16(4), 1380; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16041380 - 6 Feb 2024

Viewed by 1423

Abstract

This study explores the dynamics of emerging technology innovation ecosystems, viewing them as complex systems comprising social actors and knowledge artifacts engaged in innovation interactions. Employing a multilayer network perspective, we present a Social-Knowledge-Science-Technology (A-K-S-T) framework, examining both homogeneous and heterogeneous interactions among [...] Read more.

This study explores the dynamics of emerging technology innovation ecosystems, viewing them as complex systems comprising social actors and knowledge artifacts engaged in innovation interactions. Employing a multilayer network perspective, we present a Social-Knowledge-Science-Technology (A-K-S-T) framework, examining both homogeneous and heterogeneous interactions among innovators and knowledge elements. Within this framework, we map out the technological landscape, identify ecological niches for specific actors and knowledge elements, and gauge knowledge proximity among innovators, revealing opportunities for collaboration and knowledge innovation. Using 5G technology as an illustrative example, key findings include the potential for innovation development in 5G, the need for enhanced collaboration among organizations in related technological fields, and the complementary nature of scientific and technological knowledge. This research contributes to innovation ecosystem literature, offering insights for management, governance, efficiency, and shared prosperity; meanwhile, it is a valuable reference for decision-makers to shape effective strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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16 pages, 247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Digital Transformation a Burden or a Help? From the Perspective of Enterprise Sustainable Development

by Meijie Du and Xiaoyu Qu

Sustainability 2024, 16(3), 980; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16030980 - 23 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1268

Abstract

Sustainability has become increasingly critical to the development of modern companies. As it emphasizes the generation of value across three dimensions—economics, the environment, and society—sustainable development underscores its significance. Based on the value that a company delivers at a particular stage of the [...] Read more.

Sustainability has become increasingly critical to the development of modern companies. As it emphasizes the generation of value across three dimensions—economics, the environment, and society—sustainable development underscores its significance. Based on the value that a company delivers at a particular stage of the sustainable development process, this study proposes revenue as a measure to quantify stakeholder interest. Utilizing a fixed effects model with 2211 listed companies in 11 years, this study explores how organizations’ economic, environmental, and social inputs influence the creation of sustainability value on these three pillars, alongside the impact of four major digital technologies (artificial intelligence, blockchain, cloud computing, and big data). The study reveals that companies’ contributions in these dimensions significantly enhance the output of values. Each of the four digital technologies exerts a distinct moderating influence. We provide a thorough look at the “input-output” relationship of sustainable value creation. Our research highlights the varying effects on sustainable development of companies’ contributions to the economy, the environment, and society, as well as companies’ adoption of digital technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

18 pages, 969 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Transformation of Agricultural Products Purchasing: From the Perspective of Short Videos Live-Streaming

by Bo Zeng, Xiao Liu, Weimin Zhang, Lianbei Wu and Ding Xu

Sustainability 2023, 15(20), 14948; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152014948 - 17 Oct 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3117

Abstract

In the current competitive market situation, live streaming has become an essential part of the digital transformation of agriculture. In this study, we empirically examine the influence of short video live streaming on the purchase of agricultural products. A regression model was developed [...] Read more.

In the current competitive market situation, live streaming has become an essential part of the digital transformation of agriculture. In this study, we empirically examine the influence of short video live streaming on the purchase of agricultural products. A regression model was developed using SPSS 23 software. The final results of this study show that short video live streaming has a significant effect on the sales of agricultural products. Consumer cognition and emotion show mediation in the impact between the Key Opinion Leaders (KOL) of charisma, content richness, and interactive evaluation on the purchase of agricultural products. This study explores the path of the impact of short video live streaming on the purchasing of agricultural products. It is beneficial to help agriculture-related practitioners develop new marketing paths, reduce the waste of agricultural products, and improve the economic income of related practitioners. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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16 pages, 265 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainability of the New Energy Automobile Industry: Examining the Relationship among Government Subsidies, R&D Intensity, and Innovation Performance

by Xin Ma, Hong Jiang, Lijuan Tong, Jingyi Zhang and Mengyuan Dong

Sustainability 2023, 15(20), 14794; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152014794 - 12 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2461

Abstract

One of the most important factors in fostering the sustainable growth of the world economy is the global green low-carbon transition. With its effective use of resources, its high technological requirements, and its high added value, the new energy vehicle industry exemplifies the [...] Read more.

One of the most important factors in fostering the sustainable growth of the world economy is the global green low-carbon transition. With its effective use of resources, its high technological requirements, and its high added value, the new energy vehicle industry exemplifies the potential for sustainability. Its growth satisfies the requirements of China’s transition to an economic growth mode. This study performs an empirical analysis, using panel data from 154 new energy vehicle companies for the years 2015 to 2020. It examines the role of research and development (R&D) intensity in the impact relationship between government subsidies, R&D intensity, and innovation performance. The study’s results reveal that government subsidies have a significant positive influence on the innovation performance of enterprises, with this effect being more pronounced in non-state-owned and large-scale enterprises. Moreover, the mechanism analysis indicates that R&D intensity serves as a mediator between government subsidies and innovation performance. Based on this, this paper proposes that the government should refine the subsidy policy and should scientifically classify the enterprise standards and that enterprises should enhance their R&D capability and should develop innovation mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

16 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Corporate Sustainability: The Impact of Environmental, Social, and Governance Performance on Corporate Development and Innovation

by Defang Ma, Liangwei Li, Yuxi Song, Mengkai Wang and Qiaowen Han

Sustainability 2023, 15(19), 14086; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151914086 - 22 Sep 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3994

Abstract

As a comprehensive concept that integrates the environment, society, and corporate governance, little is known about whether and how Esg affects firm development, as the concept of sustainable development is deepened and promoted. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the [...] Read more.

As a comprehensive concept that integrates the environment, society, and corporate governance, little is known about whether and how Esg affects firm development, as the concept of sustainable development is deepened and promoted. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of Esg performance on corporate development. This paper selects the data of A-share-listed companies from 2010 to 2020 as samples, utilizes the linear regression model to empirically study the impact mechanism of Esg performance on enterprise development, and considers transmission pathways. It is found that the development of high-technology firms is more significantly affected by Esg performance than the development of non-high-technology firms. It is further found that Esg performance can promote enterprise development by reducing financing constraints. Meanwhile, corporate innovation can enhance the promotion effect of Esg performance on corporate development. After the robustness tests of instrumental variables and the lagged effects, the research conclusions still hold. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

23 pages, 604 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enterprise Transformation and Innovation: A Study of Performance Compensation from the Perspective of Information Asymmetry

by Qingbang Mu, Wanxiao Zhang and Wenxiu Hu

Sustainability 2023, 15(17), 12826; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151712826 - 24 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1519

Abstract

Information asymmetry is a key factor affecting M&A performance. In order to preserve value, performance promises are increasingly used in mergers and acquisitions; however, in practical applications performance often falls short of standards. This paper aims to explore how technology-based companies choose performance-based [...] Read more.

Information asymmetry is a key factor affecting M&A performance. In order to preserve value, performance promises are increasingly used in mergers and acquisitions; however, in practical applications performance often falls short of standards. This paper aims to explore how technology-based companies choose performance-based compensation methods from the perspective of information asymmetry by performing regression analysis on the unbalanced panel data. The results show that both equity compensation and annual compensation are more conducive to fulfilling corporate commitments, and two-way compensation enhances the incentive effect of commitments. In addition, technology companies should choose the method of equity compensation and annual compensation to alleviate the degree of information asymmetry by ensuring the degree of completion. Compensation methods can affect the fulfillment of commitments by improving corporate performance, and the degree of impact is different under different corporate governance qualities and debt repayment pressures. Revealing the performance compensation mechanism for fulfilling performance commitments not only expands the research perspective of performance commitments, but also provides a decision-making basis for enterprises to sign commitment agreements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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17 pages, 450 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainability of Entrepreneurship: An Empirical Study on the Impact Path of Corporate Social Responsibility Based on Internal Control

by Xiao Guan, Chunli Yao and Weimin Zhang

Sustainability 2023, 15(16), 12180; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151612180 - 9 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1569

Abstract

Effective internal control of enterprises can increase their social responsibility by improving financial performance, forming a sustainable cycle of enterprise development. This article uses relevant data from Chinese listed companies to explore the relationship between internal control, financial performance, and corporate social responsibility, [...] Read more.

Effective internal control of enterprises can increase their social responsibility by improving financial performance, forming a sustainable cycle of enterprise development. This article uses relevant data from Chinese listed companies to explore the relationship between internal control, financial performance, and corporate social responsibility, as well as the differences in the impact of internal control on corporate social responsibility under the heterogeneity of property rights. We found that the three have a good promoting effect on each other; at the same time, financial performance plays a part in the media effect in corporate internal control and corporate social responsibility, and this effect is stronger in non-state-owned holding enterprises than in state-owned holding enterprises. This article suggests the following: (1) establish an internal control system for socially responsible enterprises and internalize corporate responsibility awareness; (2) strengthen the internal control and independent third-party supervision systems and form a joint internal and external supervision pattern; and (3) improve the top-level design of social responsibility and combine incentive and punishment measures. This study provides constructive suggestions for the sustainable development of Chinese listed companies and future research directions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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15 pages, 702 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainability of Shipping Logistics: A Warning Model

by Ronghua Xu, Yiran Liu, Meng Liu and Chengang Ye

Sustainability 2023, 15(14), 11219; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151411219 - 18 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1355

Abstract

The shipping industry is the foundation of the economy, and it is affected by fluctuations in the economic cycle. The mainstream of financial early warning research is quantitative modeling research. There are few systematic studies on financial early warning of shipping enterprises, and [...] Read more.

The shipping industry is the foundation of the economy, and it is affected by fluctuations in the economic cycle. The mainstream of financial early warning research is quantitative modeling research. There are few systematic studies on financial early warning of shipping enterprises, and most of them still remain in the qualitative stage. This paper chooses Chinese listed shipping companies as its target, takes the economic cycle as an important reference, and then uses logistic regression, neural network, and random-forest methods to establish a model for financial warning. The random-forest model is employed to rank the importance of warning indicators. The results show that it is effective to consider macro-factors, such as the economic cycle, and the predictive accuracy of the random-forest method is higher than that of the financial warning models established by logistic regression and by the neural network. Financial alerts can help managers prepare for crises in advance. The purpose of this paper is to provide an early warning model for the sustainable development of shipping logistics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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15 pages, 473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Influencing International Infrastructure Investment: An Empirical Study from Chinese Investors

by Senchang Hu, Yunhong Wang and Wenzhe Tang

Sustainability 2023, 15(14), 11072; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151411072 - 15 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2438

Abstract

International economic cooperation accelerates the flow of capital, technology, labor, and other factors between different countries, which promotes global sustainable development. Building infrastructure construction is an important way to strengthen social development, and absorbing foreign capital is an effective way for developing countries [...] Read more.

International economic cooperation accelerates the flow of capital, technology, labor, and other factors between different countries, which promotes global sustainable development. Building infrastructure construction is an important way to strengthen social development, and absorbing foreign capital is an effective way for developing countries to improve their infrastructure and to promote economic development. This study puts forward the factors that have influenced China’s investment in international engineering projects, and it constructs a panel data regression model for empirical testing. The study shows that, first, international infrastructure investment tends to select countries or regions with good condition of highway infrastructure. Second, international infrastructure investment tends to choose countries or regions with low development level of port and power infrastructure. Third, bilateral diplomatic visits play a significant role in promoting international infrastructure investment. Fourth, international infrastructure investment tends to choose countries or regions with good resource endowment. This study reveals the influencing factors and the mechanisms for the choices of location for China’s investment in international engineering projects, providing a theoretical framework for investors to optimize international infrastructure investment and management, as well as providing the policy references for developing countries to attract international infrastructure investment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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15 pages, 585 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Group Control on the Effectiveness of Enterprise Innovation: An Empirical Study

by Bo Zeng, Weimin Zhang, Defang Ma, Chenyang Zhang and Xiao Liu

Sustainability 2023, 15(13), 10455; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151310455 - 3 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1293

Abstract

Innovation has been elevated beyond the traditional forces of production, by the emergence of a new wave of industrial upgrading and the technological revolution, to become a significant force in the advancement of human society. Can an enterprise group, a significant type of [...] Read more.

Innovation has been elevated beyond the traditional forces of production, by the emergence of a new wave of industrial upgrading and the technological revolution, to become a significant force in the advancement of human society. Can an enterprise group, a significant type of industrial organization, improve the effectiveness of enterprise innovation? Here, a quantitative analysis approach was used to systematically analyze the impact of group control on enterprise innovation effectiveness and its transmission path based on the logical framework of the “policy environment-influence effect-influence path”. The study found that group control significantly improves the effectiveness of enterprise innovation compared to independently listed enterprises. The impact path showed that group control can reduce financing constraints through internal capital markets. It increases the investment in innovation and thus enhances the effectiveness of enterprise innovation. Meanwhile, internal information exchange is accelerated through the internal knowledge market, improving enterprise innovation’s effectiveness. The results of this study were still valid after robustness tests, such as propensity score matching and accounting for lag effects. According to the paper’s findings, to enhance financial support for innovation, financial market reform should be intensified. The growth of manufacturing enterprise groups should also be encouraged. Additionally, the ability of businesses to innovate while improving the internal benefits of enterprise groups and their innovation paths should be strengthened. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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18 pages, 370 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Enterprise Digital Transformation on Green Technology Innovation: A Quantitative Study on Chinese Listed Companies

by Liang Tang, Haifeng Jiang, Shanshan Hou, Jun Zheng and Lianqi Miao

Sustainability 2023, 15(13), 10036; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151310036 - 25 Jun 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3102

Abstract

Promoting enterprise digital transformation is of great significance in accelerating the innovation capability of green technology and boosting green and low-carbon economic development. Therefore, based on the textual analysis of enterprise annual reports, the measurement index of enterprise digital transformation was constructed, and [...] Read more.

Promoting enterprise digital transformation is of great significance in accelerating the innovation capability of green technology and boosting green and low-carbon economic development. Therefore, based on the textual analysis of enterprise annual reports, the measurement index of enterprise digital transformation was constructed, and combined with the data of listed, A-share companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen from 2011 to 2021, a quantitative study was conducted on the relationship between enterprise digital transformation and green technology innovation. The quantitative study shows that there is a significant positive correlation between enterprise digital transformation and green technology innovation. The CEO IT background plays a positive moderating role between digital transformation and green technology innovation in enterprises. Based on the quantitative study from the perspective of fiscal incentives, it was found that different fiscal incentive policies play different roles in an enterprises’ digital transformation and green technology innovation; that is, government subsidies play an intermediary role between the two, and tax preferences play a positive moderating role between the two. This research enriches the mechanism analysis between enterprise digital transformation and green technology innovation, and it provides a useful exploration for the further promotion of both enterprise digital transformation and green technology innovation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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16 pages, 1822 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of City Ranking on Industry Shifting: An Empirical Study

by Xinyu Wang, Wensen Wu and Haodong Li

Sustainability 2023, 15(11), 8930; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15118930 - 1 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1174

Abstract

This paper focuses on whether city honor competition has led to a sectoral shift. The research argues that cities’ actions in pursuing honor have led to their changing from the manufacturing sector to the service sector. This paper attempts to construct a theory [...] Read more.

This paper focuses on whether city honor competition has led to a sectoral shift. The research argues that cities’ actions in pursuing honor have led to their changing from the manufacturing sector to the service sector. This paper attempts to construct a theory from city competition to sector shift. The research methods used are year-by-year propensity score matching and the difference-in-difference method. The results of the regressions prove that a city honor competition leads to a shift from the manufacturing sector to the service sector. The true value of this effect is approximately between 2.3274 and 3.0393, showing that the city honor competition promotes a sectoral shift. The trend of the city’s economy towards the service sector is evident in the competition. The robustness test proves that the model satisfies the matching equilibrium assumption. The placebo test proves that other unobserved factors do not affect the policy. The heterogeneity test finds that the larger the city size, the stronger the effect of city honors on the sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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18 pages, 3611 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Digital Economy on the Upgrading of Energy Consumption Structure: Evidence from Mainland China

by Yating Zeng, Xinyue Xu, Yuyao Zhao and Bin Li

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 5968; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15075968 - 30 Mar 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2519

Abstract

The digital economy is fundamentally altering human productivity and lifestyles, gradually becoming a new engine that drives energy technology transformation and optimizes the energy consumption structure. This paper examines the impact of the digital economy on upgrading the energy consumption structure using panel [...] Read more.

The digital economy is fundamentally altering human productivity and lifestyles, gradually becoming a new engine that drives energy technology transformation and optimizes the energy consumption structure. This paper examines the impact of the digital economy on upgrading the energy consumption structure using panel data from 30 Chinese provinces from 2013 to 2019. The empirical findings indicate that the digital economy’s development can help to improve energy consumption structure, and this impact can have a threshold effect. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that upgrading the energy consumption structure affected by the digital economy is more significant in lower digital divide regions, the eastern and central regions, and provinces with high economic development levels. Moreover, the findings of a mechanism analysis demonstrate that the digital economy primarily influences green technology innovation, and government environmental regulation affects the major upgrades of the energy consumption structure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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15 pages, 1353 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainability of Agriculture: A Study of Digital Groundwater Supervision

by Jie Zhu, Xiangyang Zhou and Jin Guo

Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5310; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065310 - 16 Mar 2023

Viewed by 1589

Abstract

Groundwater depletion caused by agricultural irrigation is a worldwide problem. Digital technology has the potential to mitigate the groundwater over-exploitation problem by precisely restricting agriculture groundwater withdrawal and borewell construction. This study estimates how farmers respond to a pilot on digital groundwater supervision, [...] Read more.

Groundwater depletion caused by agricultural irrigation is a worldwide problem. Digital technology has the potential to mitigate the groundwater over-exploitation problem by precisely restricting agriculture groundwater withdrawal and borewell construction. This study estimates how farmers respond to a pilot on digital groundwater supervision, which was implemented by the county government to limit the number and clarify property rights of irrigation borewells. By utilizing this recent pilot in rural China, we assess the causal impact of the digital groundwater supervision pilot on farmers’ water-saving irrigation (WSI) behaviors and investigate the heterogeneity effects and mechanisms related to the policy contents. A difference-in-differences (DID) strategy is applied to address the treatment effect of the digital groundwater supervision pilot. The results, which were based on a unique plot-crop-level panel dataset, indicate that farmers reduced water use after the pilot implementation, with most of the responses created through introducing water-saving technology and reducing water use intensity rather than through reducing irrigated acreage. In addition, village supervision, information, and cooperative incentives positively encourage farmers to adopt WSI technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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14 pages, 557 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Development of Fintech and SME Innovation: Empirical Evidence from China

by Hongyu Li, Zhiqiang Lu and Qili Yin

Sustainability 2023, 15(3), 2541; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15032541 - 31 Jan 2023

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4403

Abstract

Innovation is the source of competitiveness among firms and the driver of economic growth. This paper examines the influence of fintech and firms’ innovation from the perspective of stakeholder financial support. To test the relationship, we collect data from Chinese small and medium-sized [...] Read more.

Innovation is the source of competitiveness among firms and the driver of economic growth. This paper examines the influence of fintech and firms’ innovation from the perspective of stakeholder financial support. To test the relationship, we collect data from Chinese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) between 2011 and 2017. The results indicate that there is a strong positive effect of fintech development on firms’ innovative activities. This effect operates through fintech’s role in reducing information asymmetry: it increases the availability of funding support from stakeholders for firm R&D investment. Further, the funding supports are not only from investors and banks, but also from other stakeholders. In addition, this effect is larger for bigger and more opaque firms. These findings connect fintech with firm innovation and illuminate the unique roles and mechanisms of fintech development in promoting innovation inputs and outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

17 pages, 741 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Impact of Technological Mergers and Acquisitions on Enterprise Innovation: A Review

by Lingling Suo, Kezhi Yang and Hao Ji

Sustainability 2023, 15(17), 12883; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151712883 - 25 Aug 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 10537

Abstract

Innovation is the source of competitive advantage for enterprises. In the context of global industrial upgrading and increasingly fierce technological competition, enhancing innovation capabilities is key to enterprises’ success. Technology mergers and acquisitions have become an important way for enterprises to acquire external [...] Read more.

Innovation is the source of competitive advantage for enterprises. In the context of global industrial upgrading and increasingly fierce technological competition, enhancing innovation capabilities is key to enterprises’ success. Technology mergers and acquisitions have become an important way for enterprises to acquire external technology, to enhance their innovation capabilities, and to achieve rapid development. Many scholars have extensively researched technology mergers and acquisitions and enterprise innovation. This paper summarizes the relevant research literature according to different research contents. The research content includes the motivation for technology mergers and acquisitions, analyzing the impact mechanism and the path of technology mergers and acquisitions regarding enterprise innovation from the perspectives of technology relevance, the technology absorption capacity, the institutional environment, and corporate governance, as well as related research on the consequences of technology mergers and acquisitions for enterprise innovation and measuring methods for technology mergers and acquisitions and enterprise innovation. This paper summarizes and organizes the relevant literature, aiming to find research directions and enrich future research fields by summarizing it. This effort provides important theoretical support for the strategic decision-making of enterprise technology mergers and acquisitions under the guidance of innovation, and it also provides a reference for further optimizing the innovation incentive environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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Other

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17 pages, 348 KiB

Open AccessOpinion

Web 3.0 and Sustainability: Challenges and Research Opportunities

by Shekhar Rathor, Mingyu Zhang and Taehoon Im

Sustainability 2023, 15(20), 15126; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152015126 - 21 Oct 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4892

Abstract

Web 3.0 is the next generation of the web and is still in its early stages. Web 3.0 uses many technical components to create an innovative Internet ecosystem. It is characterized by features such as decentralization, interoperability, data ownership, and smart contracts. Web [...] Read more.

Web 3.0 is the next generation of the web and is still in its early stages. Web 3.0 uses many technical components to create an innovative Internet ecosystem. It is characterized by features such as decentralization, interoperability, data ownership, and smart contracts. Web 3.0 aims to enhance user experiences, privacy, and data control while fostering an equitable digital future. Web 3.0 holds significant potential for accelerating progress towards SDGs. As Web 3.0 technologies gain attraction, concerns arise about their potential impact on sustainability, encompassing energy consumption, hardware waste, and carbon footprint. By examining the current state of research about Web 3.0 and sustainability, this opinion paper discusses key Web 3.0 sustainability projects, sustainability challenges, and future directions to build a more sustainable digital era. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0, Digitization and Opportunities for Sustainability)

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