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Tan H, Yan Y, Wu ZZ. Determinants of the transition towards circular economy in SMEs: a sustainable supply chain management perspective. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:16865-16883. [PMID: 38324151 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-31855-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) increasingly know the benefits of improving resource efficiency and closing loops. These benefits include lowering material costs, establishing competitive advantages, and gaining access to new markets. As a consequence of implementing new regulations, manufacturing companies, particularly those in the automobile industry, are compelled to modify and change their business practices related to the circular economy (CE). More stringent the implementation of environmentally responsible policies and strengthening environmental regulations. CE is the most important factor in improving environmental conditions since it reduces waste and boosts output. This facet calls for the attention of fresh academics and policymakers with years of relevant expertise. Recent studies have investigated how green logistics management might improve a company's overall performance in terms of environmental responsibility. However, we believe that the connection between environmentally responsible companies is not a direct one but rather one that is mediated by the practices of circular economies. We investigate the direct and indirect effects of the environmentally responsible impact of proper logistics management on organizations' overall environmental performance via the application of circular economy practices. Our theoretical underpinnings are the resource-based viewpoint and the resource dependence theory. This research also investigates whether or not the traceability of the supply chain has a mitigating influence on the connections. We evaluated the hypotheses using the PLS-SEM method, drawing on the empirical data provided by 245 Chinese factories considered modest or medium size. The results demonstrate that the management of green logistics has a constructive effect on circular economy practices and businesses' sustainability performance. In addition, although it greatly impacts circular economy practice among SMEs, supply chain traceability does not attenuate the connection between eco-friendly supply chain management and environmental impact. Green logistics management in SMEs is linked to improved sustainability performance via the circular economy practice. To further verify the efficacy of the mediation, we also ran the sober test. Our results strengthen knowledge of circular economy, environmentally friendly logistics management practices, and sustainability performance while advancing natural resource-based planning and the resource dependence theory, which are the two approaches. Given the scarcity of information research analyzing the interplay between these factors, our results are very significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Tan
- School of Modern Finance, Jiaxing Nanhu University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ye Yan
- School of Modern Finance, Jiaxing Nanhu University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Zheng Zhong Wu
- School of Modern Finance, Jiaxing Nanhu University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, China
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Hu X, Zhao Y. Decoding the green supply chain: Education as the key to economic growth and sustainability. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:9317-9332. [PMID: 38191728 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31343-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
The value of environmental safeguarding is rising in both private and public spheres. What is meant by the term "green supply chain management" (GSCM)? It is minimizing the negative effects of a company's operations on the natural world. Particularly in the research and academic disciplines of the expanding economy of the China region, the concept of the intersection of green supply chain management and sustainable development is dissected at a foundational level. However, there has been little attention paid to how GSCM, GHC, environmental performance, and economic performance all relate to one another. This study fills that void in the literature by giving hard data to encourage businesses in the China area to adopt GHC (green human capital) and SCM (sustainable supply chain management) in order to significantly improve their environmental and economic outcomes. To better understand the interplay between these ideas, we constructed a conceptual framework. The information was gathered using a survey consisting of questionnaires. Manufacturing companies from ten (10) different areas in China provided the 470 responses. The information was analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). Research shows that green human capital and green supply chain management have a beneficial influence on economic performance but no discernible effect on environmental outcomes. The results also demonstrate that green supply chain management is an effective act as a mediator between environmental performance and economic performance, with a beneficial effect on both. An initial conclusion may be made that bettering the green human capital stock was more important for China's green economy's growth than bettering the human capital structure. Research like this helps fill out the picture of the green economy and informs policy decisions at the national level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinbo Hu
- School of Public Administration, Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, Dalian, 116025, Liaoning, China
| | - Yanzhi Zhao
- School of Public Administration, Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, Dalian, 116025, Liaoning, China.
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Guo Q, Yin C. Fintech, green imports, technology, and FDI inflow: their role in CO2 emissions reduction and the path to COP26: a comparative analysis of China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:10508-10520. [PMID: 38198082 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31732-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
This study uses a nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) model to investigate the relationships between CO2 emissions, green energy imports, foreign direct investment (FDI) inflow, and financial technology (fintech) in China. It examines both short- and long-term asymmetries, reflecting the positive and negative effects of variables of interest on CO2 emissions. The results indicate that increasing fintech and green energy imports will decrease environmental pollution, as fintech and green technology negatively affect CO2 emissions in a positive shock and have positive effects in a negative shock. We also found that imports negatively affected CO2 emissions in the context of green energy imports. However, FDI inflows have conflicting outcomes, being positively beneficial during positive shocks and adversely significant during negative shocks. Moreover, green energy imports led to a considerable increase in CO2 emissions during negative shocks. These findings highlight the importance of considering economic factors when developing environmental regulations. Policy recommendations for COP26 include fostering sustainable fintech innovation, investing in green technology research, bolstering renewable energy imports, and improving climate legislation to build a greener and more sustainable future for China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Guo
- College of Social Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Britain, G128QQ, UK
| | - Chengyuan Yin
- School of Economics, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China.
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Zhong S, Chen J, Rahman ZU, Nayab F. Quantifying digital economy and green initiatives for carbon neutrality targets: a Kilian bias-adjusted bootstrap model evaluation of China economy. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:9550-9564. [PMID: 38191737 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31445-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Digitalization has emerged as a new hope for low-carbon sustainable economic growth after its successful trial during the COVID-19 measures. Therefore, both developed and developing economies focus on digitalization to cope with carbon neutrality targets. Thus, this study attempted to generate a meaningful relationship between the digital economy and green energy, innovation, and environmental tax policy to capture the role of factors in acquiring carbon neutrality. For the abovementioned objectives, modern econometric methods, such as the Kilian bias-adjusted bootstrap, were adopted to evaluate the Chinese dataset between 1990 and 2021. The results indicate that the study factors play a significant role in acquiring carbon neutrality in the long-term Chinese economy. Furthermore, quantile autoregressive distributed lag model (QARDL) indicates that all the factors influence carbon neutrality in various quantiles. Consequently, the digital economy, green energy and innovation, and environmental taxes significantly assist in attaining carbon neutrality in the long term, and the ecological Kuznets curve prevails in the economy. Therefore, radical and wide-ranging policy implications are required in many areas including environmental restrictions, digital economy promotion, green and sustainable technologies, and clean energy sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengyang Zhong
- School of Economics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- School of Business, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jie Chen
- School of Management, Shenzhen Polytechnic, Shenzhen, 518000, China.
| | - Zia Ur Rahman
- Department of Economics, Preston University, Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Faiz Nayab
- Department of Botany, Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan
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Tian Z, Qiu L, Wang L. Drivers and influencers of blockchain and cloud-based business sustainability accounting in China: Enhancing practices and promoting adoption. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295802. [PMID: 38166081 PMCID: PMC10760918 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The field of sustainability accounting aims to integrate environmental, social, and governance factors into financial reporting. With the growing importance of sustainability practices, emerging technologies have the potential to revolutionize reporting methods. However, there is a lack of research on the factors influencing the adoption of blockchain and cloud-based sustainability accounting in China. This study employs a mixed-methods approach to examine the key drivers and barriers to technology adoption for sustainability reporting among Chinese businesses. Through a systematic literature review, gaps in knowledge were identified. Primary data was collected through an online survey of firms, followed by in-depth case studies. The findings of the study reveal a positive relationship between company size and reporting behaviors. However, size alone is not sufficient to predict outcomes accurately. The industry type also has significant but small effects, although its impact on reporting behaviors varies. The relationship between profitability and reporting behaviors is intricate and contingent, requiring contextual examination. The adoption of blockchain technology is positively associated with capabilities, resources, skills, and regulatory factors. On the other hand, cloud computing adoption is linked to resources, management support, and risk exposures. However, the specific impacts of industry on adoption remain inconclusive. This study aims to offer empirical validation of relationships, shedding light on the intricate nature of interactions that necessitate nuanced conceptualizations incorporating contextual moderators. The findings underscore the importance of providing customized support and adaptable guidance to accommodate the evolving practices in sustainability accounting. Moreover, the assimilation of technology and organizational changes highlights the need for multifaceted stakeholder cooperation to drive responsible innovation and address the challenges posed by digital transformations in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouyu Tian
- School of Economics and Management, Yan‘an University, Yan‘an, China
- Business School, Suzhou University, Suzhou, China
- College of Economics and Management, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lening Qiu
- School of Discipline Inspection and Supervision, China University of Political Science and Law, Beijing, China
| | - Litao Wang
- College of Economics and Management, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
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Zhu H. The role of digital transformation in supply chain efficiency and economic output. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:3656-3668. [PMID: 38091214 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30984-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
From the perspective of sustainable supply chain management (SSCM), this research looks at the key elements influencing how small- and medium-sized companies (SMEs) move toward a circular economy (CE). This research aims to understand the elements that influence SMEs to embrace CE principles and determine the real-world applications of SSCM practices. This research gathered and analyzed data from diverse European SMEs working inside CE networks using a mixed-method approach. We received answers from several of these firms using a survey form sent and emailed to them. The replies were then assessed using an independent t test to account for any biases. We used confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for the validity assessment, compound consistency, and corrected-item-total association measures to validate the model's validity and reliability. According to our research, SMEs are influenced significantly by societal pressures, green economic incentives, and environmental dedication when deciding whether to adopt CE practices. Our study further emphasizes the importance of SSCM for SMEs' successful transition to a CE model, especially regarding resource and waste management efficiency. This work contributes to the corpus of research on the topic by providing empirical support for the function of SSCM in easing the transition towards CE in the setting of SMEs. The results might serve as a reference for managers and policymakers as they create plans to encourage SMEs to embrace CE practices and to emphasize the advantages of such a change on the economic, social, and environmental fronts. Putting a particular emphasis on the vital roles that public pressure, green financial incentives, and ecological dedication play, this research provides insights into the complex interactions between SSCM and CE transition in SMEs. Further study is needed to examine how these determinants could fluctuate across various industries and geographies.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Zhu
- Global Business School, UCSI University, 56000, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Liu Z, Wang SP. Analyzing how government spending, incentives, and supply chains affect financial performance in energy poverty alleviation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:5001-5012. [PMID: 38114697 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31133-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Poor access to modern energy services, or energy poverty, continues to be a significant barrier to socioeconomic progress and well-being. The complicated connections between public investment, incentives, supplier chains, and the financial success of energy poverty alleviation efforts are explored in this paper. This research examines the history of eradicating energy poverty worldwide, particularly in China. It examines how these aspects affect the efficiency and long-term viability of reducing energy poverty initiatives. This research synthesizes the evidence on government expenditure patterns and their impact on initiatives to reduce energy poverty via an extensive literature examination. The development of infrastructure, capacity building, and the deployment of energy technology are all made possible in large part by government spending. Financial and regulatory incentives have also been shown to encourage the energy industry's private sector engagement and innovation. These incentives help expand underprivileged groups' access to electricity by creating an atmosphere conducive to investment. This research also examines supply chains' crucial role in combating energy poverty. For the effective installation and upkeep of energy projects, efficient and resilient supply chains are crucial because they guarantee the availability of vital materials and resources. An integrated supply chain strategy may improve project results, save costs, and eliminate risks related to logistical difficulties. Government funding, incentives, and supply chains all have a connection that affects how well energy poverty alleviation programs function financially. Maintaining projects after their first execution requires sustained financial performance. It explores how supply network interruptions may affect financial performance, highlighting the need for robust supply chain management techniques. As a result, this study adds to a comprehensive knowledge of the complex processes underpinning the reduction of energy poverty. It offers insights into developing efficient policies and strategies by examining how government actions, incentives, supply chains, and financial performance interact. These observations are relevant for practitioners, investors, and academics trying to increase access to sustainable energy sources and reduce poverty in addition to policymakers. This report provides helpful recommendations for boosting the effectiveness and endurance of energy poverty reduction activities as nations work to reach global sustainable development objectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Liu
- School of Business Administration, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, Hunan, China
- School of Accounting, Hunan Vocational College of Commerce, Changsha, 410205, Hunan, China
| | - Shan Ping Wang
- School of Business, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China.
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Yan B, Lyu J. How does an innovative decision-making scheme affect the high-quality economic development driven by green finance and higher education? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:115721-115733. [PMID: 37889414 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30170-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
This research examines the various elements that contribute to the achievement of high-quality economic development (HQED) in China. Specifically, it explores the influence of several major indices, such as the Green Finance Index, Energy Development Index, Higher Education, Technology Market Environment, and Human Capital. In this study, we utilize a Spatial Durbin Model to examine the interdependencies and spatial linkages between various variables, and their combined impact on China's efforts towards achieving HQED. The Green Finance Index serves as an indicator of a nation's dedication to the implementation of financially sustainable practices and investments that align with environmental objectives. The Energy Development Index assesses the extent to which the energy sector contributes to both economic growth and sustainability. The significance of education and skill development in promoting economic advancement is underscored by Higher Education and Human Capital measures. The Technology Market Environment Index examines the impact of the innovation ecosystem on fostering economic growth. The empirical analysis in our study utilizes extensive data sets collected from 30 provinces and regions throughout China. In this study, we analyze the spatial and temporal interactions of the indices, considering the potential spillover effects from adjacent locations. The findings offer significant contributions to understanding the intricate interconnections among green financing, energy development, education, technology, and human capital, and their combined influence on China's continuous endeavor towards achieving high-quality economic growth. Comprehending the intricate interconnections and spatial dynamics holds paramount importance for policymakers and stakeholders who aspire to foster sustainable, inclusive, and ecologically conscientious economic development in China. The results obtained from this study possess the potential to provide valuable insights for evidence-based policy decisions and strategies aimed at promoting the nation's pursuit of HQED objectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingxu Yan
- School of Education Management, De La Salle University Dasmariñas, 4115, Cavite, Philippines
- Department of Calligraphy, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, 273100, Shandong, China
| | - Jiayu Lyu
- School of Graduate Studies, Lingnan University, Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China.
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Liu J, Lu S. Does circular economy affect environmental performance? The mediating role of sustainable supply chain management: the case study in China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:117288-117301. [PMID: 37864702 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30125-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Governments and professionals have recently tried to improve public environmental knowledge and laws in order to meet growing environmental concerns. As a result, most nations see corporate environmental initiatives like the circular economy and the green supply chain as important (GSCM) as the best ways to address environmental problems. As a result, this study tries to show how important GSCM and the circular economy are regarding the economy of China's relationship to environmental sustainability. This study uses the partial least square structural equation model (PLS-SEM) on data to obtain trustworthy results from 387 Chinese manufacturing companies. A favorable and statistically significant correlation between GSCM, environmental performance, and the circular economy was revealed using PLS-SEM analysis. To raise environmental standards, eco-friendly methods like buying and designing green items are widely regarded today. Imagine if manufacturing companies adopt green supply chain management, which would improve their economic performance and increase operational effectiveness. The secret to a successful corporation is having successful operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Liu
- School of Business Administration, Liaoning Technical University, Fuxin, 123032, China.
| | - Shinchang Lu
- School of Business Administration, Liaoning Technical University, Fuxin, 123032, China
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