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Article
Publication date: 21 November 2023

Iddamalgoda Pathiranage Tharindu Sandaruwan, Jayasinghe Arachchige Bihara Janardana and Kesavan Manoharan

Construction professionals are the major contributors to developing a sustainable construction industry, whereas architects, engineers and quantity surveyors are the key…

Abstract

Purpose

Construction professionals are the major contributors to developing a sustainable construction industry, whereas architects, engineers and quantity surveyors are the key construction professionals who must play extraordinary roles in achieving better sustainable construction. Therefore, this study aims to identify the job attributes of key Sri Lankan construction professionals in addressing challenges associated with climate change.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a mixed research approach. A literature review and preliminary semi-structured interviews were used to appraise the job roles of architects, engineers and quantity surveyors in addressing challenges associated with climate change. The data collected through the qualitative approach were used in an online questionnaire survey, and the findings were analysed using the relative index method.

Findings

The findings highlight that regardless of the knowledge of the professional category on green rating tools, carbon footprint, adaptation of renewable energies for the reduction of energy consumption, building information modelling-related applications and waste management concepts/practices are the foremost job attributes required for the key Sri Lankan construction professionals in addressing challenges associated with climate change.

Research limitations/implications

The results from this study provide a handful of guidance to construction industry professionals, national and international professional institutions, non-governmental organisations and other relevant authorities to address climate change within the built environment by identifying ways for improving the relevant key job attributes of construction industry professionals.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that explores the job attributes of key Sri Lankan construction professionals in addressing the challenges associated with climate change.

Details

International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment, vol. 15 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-5908

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 7 May 2024

Etikah Karyani, Ira Geraldina, Marissa Grace Haque and Ahmad Zahir

Halal certification is an acknowledgment of the halalness of a product or service issued by a halal regulator based on Islamic law. This study aims to investigate the intentions…

Abstract

Purpose

Halal certification is an acknowledgment of the halalness of a product or service issued by a halal regulator based on Islamic law. This study aims to investigate the intentions of consumers and regulators toward blockchain-based halal certification. Blockchain is useful for storing and verifying halal certificates, thereby increasing trust in products or services because the public cannot change or access data once it is stored.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a triangulation approach by distributing online questionnaires to consumers as a research instrument of a quantitative approach processed with smart partial least squares. Meanwhile, the qualitative approach is carried out through observation, in-depth interviews with the Ministry of Religion’s Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (BPJPH) and Halal Examination Agency (LPH), and forum group discussions (FGDs) with several related parties.

Findings

The observation results show that most consumers expect the government to provide an easy-to-use application to check halal food products and restaurants. Consumers’ intention to use this technology is influenced directly by attitudes and indirectly by their beliefs. Furthermore, the results of interviews and FGDs reported that LPH was not ready to apply blockchain technology, while BPJPH strongly supported adopting blockchain technology in the certification process.

Practical implications

This finding recommends that the Indonesian government apply blockchain technology to gain transparency and accountability regarding the halal product process.

Originality/value

This study fills the research gap by observing three perspectives from different stakeholders and using a triangulation approach to analyze the need for adoption of blockchain-based halal certification of halal food products.

Details

Journal of Islamic Marketing, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-0833

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 May 2024

Ling Luo, Hong Ji, Shu-Ning Chen and Xin Chen

The purpose of this study is to determine the competency characteristics required for the employment of master’s degree students in educational technology.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the competency characteristics required for the employment of master’s degree students in educational technology.

Design/methodology/approach

A combined qualitative and quantitative method was used to consult multiple experts through a modified Delphi method. Competency characteristics were extracted from Chinese recruitment apps, national recruitment websites and university training programs. Ten senior teacher experts who teach educational technology master’s students were consulted through a questionnaire consultation to validate the proposed competency model. The weights of competency characteristics were determined through a combination of the analytic hierarchy process and entropy method.

Findings

The results show that when recruiting educational technology master’s students, more emphasis is placed on operational skills. The majority of companies tend to assess practical abilities rather than theoretical knowledge. Relevant knowledge of educational technology, psychology, computer science and education is considered to be the basic knowledge components of educational technology master’s students, while professional skills are the core skills required for their positions. Therefore, universities need to focus on training, educational technology graduate students in these areas of competence. The study also found that professional qualities (such as physical and mental fitness) and personality traits (interpersonal communication and interaction) receive more attention from companies and are essential competencies for educational technology master’s students.

Originality/value

A competence model for educational technology master’s students is proposed, which includes aspects such as knowledge, personal skills/abilities, professional qualities and personality traits. The competence elements included in this model can serve as reference indicators for universities to cultivate the competence of educational technology master’s students, as well as reference points for recruiting units to help them select talents. This represents a new dimension in research related to the employment of educational technology master’s students. The study enriches the research objects and competence dictionary in the field of competence research.

Details

Education + Training, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0040-0912

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 February 2024

Vasundhara Saravade and Olaf Weber

This paper aims to examine the Canadian financial sector’s reaction to opportunities and risks created by the green bond market in a low-carbon and climate-resilient (LCR) economy.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the Canadian financial sector’s reaction to opportunities and risks created by the green bond market in a low-carbon and climate-resilient (LCR) economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a concurrent mixed methodological approach that undertakes an online survey and semistructured interviews with critical green bond market stakeholders.

Findings

The most significant market driver in Canada is the reputational benefit for stakeholders, i.e. its ability to meet the high demand for sustainable finance and the marketing potential of its green credentials. The major market barriers are transactional costs, i.e. additional tracking required for reporting purposes, lack of market liquidity and identification of environmental impact or additionality. Canadian green bonds are also more likely to be evaluated on their green impact than their global market peers.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations of this study include its focus on Canada, which may exclude or not apply to drivers and barriers in other green bond markets.

Practical implications

The paper helps create an accounting-based conceptual framework for key motivations and barriers that affect financial decision-making regarding green bonds.

Social implications

The authors identify economic and policy-related barriers and drivers for green bonds, addressing the financing gap for the LCR economy.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to identify and compare Canadian green bond market drivers and barriers and to examine relevant stakeholder- and policy-related approaches that can be targeted to scale this market effectively.

Details

Sustainability Accounting, Management and Policy Journal, vol. 15 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-8021

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 20 May 2024

Zahid Hussain and Arman Khan

Purpose: This research investigates how producers of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) in Karachi, Pakistan, embrace sustainable manufacturing and consumption practices.Study

Abstract

Purpose: This research investigates how producers of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) in Karachi, Pakistan, embrace sustainable manufacturing and consumption practices.

Study design/methodology/approach: This study employed a mixed research design, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The primary method of data collecting utilised in this study was semi-structured interviews. The survey sampled 11 FMCG manufacturers, and the data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings: The research revealed that economic variables were crucial in adopting sustainable consumption and production (SCP) practices among Karachi’s FMCG businesses. The economic reasons were motivated by the notion that adopting sustainable practices could result in financial benefits and enhanced market competitiveness. The research additionally discovered that consumer preferences were pivotal in stimulating sustainable practices within the FMCG business. Manufacturers indicated that adopting sustainable products and packaging was driven mainly by consumer demand.

Originality/value: This study contributes to the literature on SCP within the FMCG business. It offers valuable insights into the factors influencing sustainable practices and customer preferences. This study emphasises the importance of economic, social, and environmental aspects in fostering sustainable practices within the FMCG industry, specifically focusing on developing nation environments such as Karachi. This study’s findings can contribute valuable insights for policy formulation and decision-making processes about SCP within Karachi’s FMCG business and other similar contexts.

Details

Sustainable Development Goals: The Impact of Sustainability Measures on Wellbeing
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83797-098-8

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 April 2024

Ayman Ahmed Ezzat Othman and Rodayna Ehab Hegazy

This research aims to develop and validate a framework for eradicating women’s discrimination in architectural design firms (ADFs) in Egypt and propose strategies for prospective…

Abstract

Purpose

This research aims to develop and validate a framework for eradicating women’s discrimination in architectural design firms (ADFs) in Egypt and propose strategies for prospective adoption in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to increase the transformational impact of women on the architectural and urban developments of the Gulf region.

Design/methodology/approach

A combined qualitative and quantitative research approach was designed to accomplish four objectives. Firstly, to investigate the nature of business in ADFs, women’s discrimination and policies for gender equity (PGE) in architecture. Secondly, to analyse three case studies to validate the identified causes and impacts of women’s discrimination and examine the role of PGE towards eradicating women’s discrimination in ADFs. Thirdly, to conduct a survey questionnaire with a representative sample of ADFs to investigate their perception of women’s discrimination and the correlation between PGE towards eradicating women’s discrimination in ADFs. Based on the above, the research developed and validated a framework to eradicate women’s discrimination in ADFs in Egypt and suggested strategies for potential application in the GCC countries to increase the transformational role of women in the architectural and urban developments of the Gulf region.

Findings

Through literature review and case studies, the research identified and validated the causes and impacts of women’s discrimination as well as PGE in Architecture. The findings of data analysis showed that the highest-ranked causes of women discrimination in ADFs were “customs and beliefs” followed by “Underestimating women’s work” and “Recruiting males more than females”. Moreover, the highest-ranked impacts of women’s discrimination were “career shift and leaving the profession” followed by “decrease in creativity and innovation” and “decrease in economic growth”. Furthermore, the Spearman correlation test showed that while some PGE were correlated, others were not. These findings helped in the development of the proposed framework and proposed strategies.

Practical implications

This research presents a practical framework to eliminate women’s discrimination in ADFs in Egypt based on the findings of literature review, case studies and survey questionnaire. The framework explained in a workable way the objectives of the framework functions; activities; tools and techniques; involved personnel and needed resources as well as enforcing mechanisms. It was validated by a representative sample of ADFs in Egypt to ensure its practicability and viability and suggested strategies for implementation in the GCC countries to increase women’s role in architectural and urban development.

Originality/value

The research identified and validated the causes and impacts of women’s discrimination as well as PGE in Architecture. Moreover, the research investigated the perception of women’s discrimination and the correlation between PGE through conducting a survey questionnaire with a representative of ADFs in Egypt. The research tackled a topic that received scant attention in construction literature, especially in Egypt and the GCC countries. The research developed and validated a framework to eradicate women’s discrimination in ADFs in Egypt. It represents a synthesis that is novel and creative in thought and adds value to the knowledge in a manner that has not previously occurred. The research suggested several strategies for the prospective implementation of the framework in the GCC countries as an approach to enhancing the transformational role of women in the architectural and urban developments of the Gulf region.

Details

Archnet-IJAR: International Journal of Architectural Research, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2631-6862

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 April 2024

William Henry Collinge

The paper aims to apply social practice theory to clarify the process of innovation design and delivery from one successful digital innovation: the building information modelling…

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to apply social practice theory to clarify the process of innovation design and delivery from one successful digital innovation: the building information modelling (BIM) risk library. The paper clarifies the practices surrounding construction innovation and provides a schema useful for practitioners and technology designers through a social practice analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper applies Schatzki's “organisation of practice” concepts to a construction project innovation to clarify how the practice of innovation revolves around understandings, rules and teleoaffectivities (emotive behaviours). Sources for the study include notes from meetings, workshops with experts and the shared artefacts of innovation.

Findings

The practice of innovation design and delivery are clarified through a social practice analysis: a distinct “field of practice” and a “schema” of generalisable prescriptions and preferences for innovation delivery being presented.

Practical implications

The paper informs the practice and process of innovation design and delivery; the insights clarify how collective understandings and rules of use evolve over time, becoming formalised into contracts, agreements and workplans. Practically, processes whereby innovation “sayings” evolve into innovation “doings” are clarified: a schema detailing prescriptions and preferences of practitioners and developers being presented.

Originality/value

The social practice analysis of one successful construction innovation is an original contribution to the body of knowledge, adding a level of detail regarding innovation design and delivery often missing from reported research.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 August 2023

Cathy H.C. Hsu, Nan Chen and Shiqin Zhang

This paper aims to develop a comprehensive model on intra- and interpersonal emotion regulation (ER) in hospitality and tourism (H&T) service encounters.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a comprehensive model on intra- and interpersonal emotion regulation (ER) in hospitality and tourism (H&T) service encounters.

Design/methodology/approach

A critical review and reflection of ER research from multiple disciplines was conducted. Methodologies appropriate for investigating ER were also reviewed.

Findings

A comprehensive framework was proposed to outline key influential factors, processes and consequences of intra- and interpersonal ER in service encounters in the H&T industry. Methodologies integrating advanced tools were suggested to measure complex and dynamic emotion generation and regulation processes in social interactions from a multimodal perspective.

Research limitations/implications

The researchers developed a comprehensive conceptual model on both intra- and interpersonal ER based on a critical review of the most recent psychological research on ER. Various theoretical and methodological considerations are discussed, offering H&T scholars a solid starting point to explore dynamic emotion generation and regulation processes in complex social settings. Moreover, the model provides future directions for the expansion of ER theories, which have been mostly developed and tested based on laboratory research.

Originality/value

The proposed model addresses two critical issues identified in emotion research in the H&T field: the lack of a dynamic perspective and the neglect of the social nature of emotions. Moreover, the model provides a roadmap for future research.

Details

International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, vol. 36 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-6119

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 November 2023

Maria Unuigbe and Sambo Lyson Zulu

The UK Government has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, being the first major nation to do so. While laudable, it raises the question, “are future built…

Abstract

Purpose

The UK Government has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, being the first major nation to do so. While laudable, it raises the question, “are future built environment professionals (BEPs) equipped for this?” Although studies related to students’ perspectives exist, they broadly focus on sustainability-related pedagogical aspects, with limited studies conducted in the built environment (BE). This study makes the case that it is timely to investigate this from an emerging perspective using the term “low-carbon future” (LCF), given that it is germane to achieving net-zero emissions and is at the forefront of academic and practice discourse. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the knowledge level of UK BE students’ in higher education institutions (HEIs) specific to the term LCF.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a systematic scoping study review of published papers related to sustainability in BE curricula in the UK HEI context.

Findings

The findings reveal that LCF remains at a nascent stage, with no study specifically addressing it. It indicates a knowledge gap that could impact the grounding students require to address current and future sustainability challenges.

Research limitations/implications

The review focused on a specific term, which, while relevant, is very niche. A review of other emerging terms, considering LCF as a theme, and/or empirical data from diverse stakeholders in UK HEIs could enrich the results.

Practical implications

This study provides significant insight into the status of sustainability inclusion in the BE curriculum. It would serve as a reference for stakeholders involved in equipping future BEPs with the requisite knowledge and skills to deal with sustainability challenges that will be consequential beyond the UK context. It would also inform future research.

Social implications

Sustainability-informed and equipped BEPs will be influential in shaping their immediate surroundings and how people engage with them, which will contribute to developing a more equitable and sustainable society.

Originality/value

Beyond contributing to the discourse on sustainability literacy in UK HEI from an emerging concept perspective, this study would be useful as possibly the first of its kind. Therefore, it fills the theoretical gap and proffers recommendations that would be beneficial for curriculum development.

Details

International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment, vol. 15 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-5908

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 May 2024

Koech Cheruiyot, Nosipho Mavundla, Mncedisi Siteleki and Ezekiel Lengaram

With revolutions in the telecommunication sector having led to wide unprecedented consequences in all facets of human life, this paper aims to examine the relationship between…

Abstract

Purpose

With revolutions in the telecommunication sector having led to wide unprecedented consequences in all facets of human life, this paper aims to examine the relationship between cell phone tower base stations (CPTBSs) and residential property prices within the City of Johannesburg (CoJ), South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors align their work with global literature and assess how the impact of CPTBSs influences residential property values in South Africa. The authors use a semi-log hedonic pricing model to test the hypothesis that proximity of CPTBSs to residential properties does not account for any variation in residential property prices.

Findings

The results show a significant impact that proximity of CPTBS has on residential property sale prices. However, the impact of CTPBSs’ proximity on residential property prices depends on their distance from the residential properties. The closer a residential property is to the CTPBS, the greater the impact that the CTPBS will have on the selling price of the residential property.

Originality/value

With international studies offering mixed findings on the impact of CPTBSs on residential property values, there is limited research on their impact in South Africa. The findings of this study offer crucial insights for the real estate practitioners, property owners, telecommunications companies and the public, providing a nuanced understanding of the relationship between CPTBSs and property values. This research helps property owners understand the effects of CPTBSs on their properties, and it assists property valuers in gauging the impact of CPTBSs on property values.

Details

International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8270

Keywords

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