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Article
Publication date: 22 June 2023

Parvez Mia, James Hazelton and James Guthrie Am

This study aims to evaluate the quality of the energy efficiency disclosures made by Australian cities. As cities are significant energy users, and energy use is a crucial source…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the quality of the energy efficiency disclosures made by Australian cities. As cities are significant energy users, and energy use is a crucial source of greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency initiatives can play an essential role in addressing climate change. Yet, little is understood about the energy efficiency disclosures being made.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors developed an original energy efficiency disclosure index to assess the reporting quality of the eight largest Australian cities. The websites of these cities were analysed for information on energy efficiency measures from December 2018 to June 2019. Annual reports, environmental reports, climate action plans and any other material related to energy plans were downloaded and then coded using the index.

Findings

While all cities provided energy efficiency information, little financial information was provided, limited forward-looking information was disclosed, key challenges were not disclosed, and each city provided energy efficiency disclosures differently. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that public accountability is limited.

Research limitations/implications

An important implication is the need to standardise and improve cities’ energy efficiency reporting, especially concerning financial information. Cities, governments and the Carbon Disclosure Project (formerly the CDP) could achieve this, perhaps as part of the broader update of the CDP city-focused guidelines for greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting.

Originality/value

Although some studies on GHG reporting by cities have already been undertaken, including energy efficiency as part of their disclosure index, no study has focused on energy efficiency disclosures. The authors provide original insights concerning these practices. The study also provides an energy efficiency disclosure index that can be used in further research.

Details

Meditari Accountancy Research, vol. 32 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2049-372X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 3 August 2020

Djordje Cica, Branislav Sredanovic, Sasa Tesic and Davorin Kramar

Sustainable manufacturing is one of the most important and most challenging issues in present industrial scenario. With the intention of diminish negative effects associated with…

2025

Abstract

Sustainable manufacturing is one of the most important and most challenging issues in present industrial scenario. With the intention of diminish negative effects associated with cutting fluids, the machining industries are continuously developing technologies and systems for cooling/lubricating of the cutting zone while maintaining machining efficiency. In the present study, three regression based machine learning techniques, namely, polynomial regression (PR), support vector regression (SVR) and Gaussian process regression (GPR) were developed to predict machining force, cutting power and cutting pressure in the turning of AISI 1045. In the development of predictive models, machining parameters of cutting speed, depth of cut and feed rate were considered as control factors. Since cooling/lubricating techniques significantly affects the machining performance, prediction model development of quality characteristics was performed under minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) and high-pressure coolant (HPC) cutting conditions. The prediction accuracy of developed models was evaluated by statistical error analyzing methods. Results of regressions based machine learning techniques were also compared with probably one of the most frequently used machine learning method, namely artificial neural networks (ANN). Finally, a metaheuristic approach based on a neural network algorithm was utilized to perform an efficient multi-objective optimization of process parameters for both cutting environment.

Details

Applied Computing and Informatics, vol. 20 no. 1/2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2634-1964

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 February 2024

Mia von Knorring, Hanna Karlsson, Elizabeth Stenwall, Matti Johannes Nikkola and Maria Niemi

This study aims to analyse student and teaching staff views on how higher education (HE) can contribute to sustainable development, and to provide examples of how a medical…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to analyse student and teaching staff views on how higher education (HE) can contribute to sustainable development, and to provide examples of how a medical university has adopted the sustainable development goals (SDGs) as part of its institutional strategies and practises.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on participant views from a conference, which aimed to identify actions needed for HE to contribute to the SDGs. More than 500 students, teachers and academic leaders participated at workshops to discuss and reflect on the role of higher education institutions (HEIs) in sustainable development. The discussion key points were recorded on flipcharts, and the analysis builds on all written statements from the nine workshops. Based on the findings from the workshop, steering documents and activities of a medical university were identified as examples of implementation.

Findings

Two overarching interdependent themes were identified and indicated a need to rethink the role not only of HE per se but also that of HEIs at large, to meet the challenges of sustainable development. The study also provides an example of how such organizational change can be practically implemented at a medical university, through the establishment of overarching institutional strategies, funding opportunities and external collaborations.

Practical implications

The findings reflect a “bottom-up” call from students and educational staff for HEIs to step up and contribute to systems change – both through a change in pedagogies, as well as through an institution-wide approach and a shift in the role of HEIs in society.

Originality/value

The study is unique in providing an exemplar of the implementation of sustainable development in HE at a specific medical university.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 September 2023

Christopher Stuart Taylor

Using the examples of Grenadian-born Jean Augustine, the first Black Member of Parliament in Canada, and Barbados' Prime Minister Mia Mottley, the piece argues that the ethos of…

Abstract

Purpose

Using the examples of Grenadian-born Jean Augustine, the first Black Member of Parliament in Canada, and Barbados' Prime Minister Mia Mottley, the piece argues that the ethos of the Emigrant Ambassador—the collective empowerment of Black feminism, liberation, and radicalism—ushered in a new era for change abroad and in Canada, as transnational and international change was driven by Black women from the West Indies.

Design/methodology/approach

The author used historical research and social science theoretical frameworks to formulate conclusions, lessons learnt and steps forward for current equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) practitioners.

Findings

Black women born in the West Indies in the mid-twentieth century were the catalysts for social justice movements in the 2010 and 2020s. Many methods used for social change in the twentieth century are applicable in the 2020s and beyond.

Research limitations/implications

Research is focused on Canadian and West Indian relations but will have implications for those across the British Commonwealth.

Practical implications

Practitioners and students of EDI will have a new tool on how to approach and confront anti-Black racism, particularly after May 25, 2020.

Social implications

This article provides opportunities to support the dwindling efforts of anti-racism to support the lives of Black people across the Black Atlantic.

Originality/value

This is an original article built on previous scholarship of the author.

Details

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: An International Journal, vol. 43 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-7149

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 March 2024

Ahreum Lim, Daeun Jung and Eunsun Lee

As emerging scholars of color with transnational backgrounds, we collectively recount our socialization experiences in US higher education institutes. We explore moments of…

Abstract

Purpose

As emerging scholars of color with transnational backgrounds, we collectively recount our socialization experiences in US higher education institutes. We explore moments of betweenness as catalysts for envisioning a more inclusive academia that operates beyond the tokenism of diversity.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing betweener autoethnography (Diversi and Moreira, 2018), we inquire into the sense of impasse encountered by South Korean female emerging scholars in the field of education in becoming an outsider within the academic system.

Findings

Chronicling our shifts in perspectives of our positionality, we interweave inquiries motivating us to challenge normative pressures and map our betweener experiences onto the Wiedman and DeAngelo’s (2020) socialization model. Through this process, we wedge open in-between spaces in the socialization process that accommodate the nuanced positionality of transnational scholars.

Originality/value

Integrating postcolonial critiques on the Western-centric meritocratic academia, this piece sheds light on the complexity and fluidity of emerging transnational scholars’ socialization processes. The thick, nuanced description deepens the understanding of the complexity of their identity negotiation within the dominant logics of academia. Our inquiries interwoven through betweener autoethnography serve as guidance for mentoring international graduate students and transnational scholars.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 February 2023

Mohammad Osman Gani, Muhammad Sabbir Rahman, Surajit Bag and Md. Papul Mia

The aim of this study is to comprehend the behavioural intention of females' perception toward smart healthcare technology. The study also examines the moderation effect of social…

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study is to comprehend the behavioural intention of females' perception toward smart healthcare technology. The study also examines the moderation effect of social influences between perceived smart healthcare technology and perceived usefulness among female users.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the model, this study collected data from female respondents (n = 913) responses. The data were analyzed by structural equation modeling (SEM) using Smart-PLS 3.2. To complement the findings from structural equation modeling, the study also conducted a post-hoc test via experimental research design. The authors also applied a t-test and PROCESS macro analysis to re-confirm the relationship mentioned above.

Findings

The findings revealed that perceived ease of use significantly mediates the relationship between females' perceived smart healthcare technology and intention to use. The findings also show that social influence moderates between smart healthcare technology and the perceived usefulness relationship.

Research limitations/implications

Social influence is one of the major issues while adopting smart healthcare technology because the respondents perceived that they are accustomed to the technologies related to smart health once their surroundings and social environment influence them.

Originality/value

The current study is a pioneer in the context of a developing country and unique in that it makes two contributions: it extends previous research on smart health technology adoption in the healthcare business by considering females, and it gives a broad knowledge of the female healthcare consumers from emerging nations which can be useful for developing technology-driven healthcare services strategies.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 31 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 12 March 2024

Md Aslam Mia, Md Imran Hossain and Sunil Sangwan

Digitalization is one of the major factors that fosters economic growth across the world. However, the level of digitalization varies significantly between developed and…

Abstract

Purpose

Digitalization is one of the major factors that fosters economic growth across the world. However, the level of digitalization varies significantly between developed and developing countries, with the latter often lagging behind. To bridge this gap, it is crucial to pinpoint the drivers of digitalization, specifically from the macroeconomic and country-level governance dimensions. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the determinants of digitalization, particularly for countries in Asia and the Pacific region.

Design/methodology/approach

Our study utilizes unbalanced panel data from 46 Asian and Pacific countries for the period of 2001–2021. Initially, we analyzed the data using conventional econometric methods, such as pooled ordinary least squares (POLS), random-effects model (REM) and fixed-effects model (FEM). Moreover, we employed endogeneity-corrected techniques and alternative proxies to enhance the robustness and reliability of our findings.

Findings

Our findings reveal that economic development progress, government expenditure relative to country size and political stability are key drivers of digitalization. In contrast, corruption at the country level emerges as a significant impediment. Notably, our results remain robust to endogeneity-corrected techniques and alternative proxies of digitalization. Overall, these insights can inform policymakers, helping them to understand the macroeconomic and governance factors shaping digitalization and guide their decision-making toward effective policy interventions.

Originality/value

This study’s empirical findings add significant value to the existing literature by quantifying the impact of macroeconomic and governance factors on digitalization in selected countries. This offers valuable insights for policymakers, particularly in nations with lower levels of digitalization.

Details

Digital Transformation and Society, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2755-0761

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 April 2023

Md Tarikul Islam, Mia Mahmudur Rahim and Sanjaya Chinthana Kuruppu

This paper examines the link between the failure of public accountability and stakeholder disengagement brought about by a New Public Management (NPM) style “smart solution”…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper examines the link between the failure of public accountability and stakeholder disengagement brought about by a New Public Management (NPM) style “smart solution” introduced to reduce public urination in Dhaka city. It shows how New Public Governance (NPG), Islamic and dialogic approaches can improve decision-making and solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the concepts of public accountability, NPM, NPG and dialogic accountability, this study highlights how narrow conceptions of accountability and poor stakeholder engagement impacted the effectiveness of the “smart solution” based on data collected through observation and unstructured in-depth interviews.

Findings

Evidence suggests that narrow conceptions of accountability driven by monologic NPM perspectives led to poor stakeholder engagement, which impacted the effectiveness of the “smart solution”. The solution that consists of changing anti-urination signage from Bengali to Arabic script has not solved Dhaka's public urination problem. In many instances, the solution has disenchanted certain stakeholders who view it as an offence against Islam and a confusing de-privileging of the Bengali language which has significant national and cultural value in Bangladesh.

Originality/value

The findings of the study contribute to policymaking discussions on how to effectively engage with stakeholders and extend the literature on accountability within the context of conflicting public versus private demands related to a public nuisance. The study outlines important issues related to stakeholder engagement and introduces a framework that conceptualises how to increase the effectiveness of public policy decisions using NPG, Islamic and dialogic accountability approaches, especially on matters that require significant public/external stakeholder support. It also provides a conceptual integration of these various approaches, including nuanced insights into accountability challenges within “non-Western” contexts.

Details

Accounting, Auditing & Accountability Journal, vol. 37 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0951-3574

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 1 March 2024

Priyajit Mondal, Dhritishree Ghosh, Madhupa Seth and Subhra Kanti Mukhopadhyay

The purpose of this article is to provide information about interactions between pink-pigmented facultative methylotroph (PPFM) organisms and plants, their molecular mechanisms of…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to provide information about interactions between pink-pigmented facultative methylotroph (PPFM) organisms and plants, their molecular mechanisms of methylotrophic metabolism, application of PPFMs in agriculture, biotechnology and bioremediation and also to explore lacuna in PPFMs research and direction for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

Research findings on PPFM organisms as potent plant growth promoting organisms are discussed in the light of reports published by various workers. Unexplored field of PPFM research are detected and their application as a new group of biofertilizer that also help host plants to overcome draught stress in poorly irrigated crop field is suggested.

Findings

PPFMs are used as plant growth promoters for improved crop yield, seed germination capacity, resistance against pathogens and tolerance against drought stress. Anti-oxidant and UV resistant properties of PPFM pigments protect the host plants from strong sunshine. PPFMs have excellent draught ameliorating capacity.

Originality/value

To meet the ever increasing world population, more and more barren, less irrigated land has to be utilized for agriculture and horticulture purpose and use of PPFM group of organisms due to their draught ameliorating properties in addition to their plant growth promoting characters will be extremely useful. PPFMs are also promising candidates for the production of various industrially and medicinally important enzymes and other value-added products. Wider application of this ecofriendly group of bacteria will reduce crop production cost thus improving economy of the farmers and will be a greener alternative of hazardous chemical fertilizers and fungicides.

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Details

Arab Gulf Journal of Scientific Research, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1985-9899

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 February 2024

Nadia A. Abdelmegeed Abdelwahed, Mohammed A. Al Doghan, Ummi Naiemah Saraih and Bahadur Ali Soomro

Blockchain technology has brought about significant transformation among organizations worldwide. This study aimed to explore the effects of organizational and technological…

Abstract

Purpose

Blockchain technology has brought about significant transformation among organizations worldwide. This study aimed to explore the effects of organizational and technological factors on blockchain technology adoption (BTA) and financial performance (FP) in Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a co-relational study which used the cross-sectional data. We gathered the data from the managers of Pakistan’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which functioned their industries with blockchain technology. We applied convenience sampling to identify the respondents. Finally, we based this study’s findings on 274 valid cases.

Findings

We used structural equation modeling (SEM) in this study, to exert a positive and significant impact on organizational factors such as organizational innovativeness (OI), organizational learning capability (OLC), top management support (TMS) and organizational work climate (OWC) on BTA. In addition, the technological factors, such as complexity (CTY), technology readiness (TR), compatibility (CBTY) and technology capability (TC), have a positive and significant effect on BTA. Finally, this study’s findings show that BTA positively and significantly impacts FP.

Practical implications

This study’s findings will help policymakers and planners to design policies to adopt other blockchain technologies to improve SMEs’ operations. Moreover, this study’s findings will inspire policymakers and planners to actively seek new ideas, knowledge and skills through acquiring new knowledge to assist with their IT-related decisions.

Originality/value

This study empirically confirms the role of organizational and technology factors toward BTA and FP among Pakistan's SME managers.

Details

Kybernetes, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0368-492X

Keywords

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