Showing papers in "Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal in 2022"

The impact of eco-innovation on green buying behaviour: the moderating effect of emotional loyalty and generation

Abstract: PurposeThis study intends to contribute to the literature of eco-innovation by examining the pro-environmental intentions and behaviour among consumers through their understanding of eco-innovation. Thus, the relationship among eco-innovation, general pro-social attitude, generativity, environmental concern, purchasing intentions and buying environmentally friendly products and the differences of the relationship between high and low emotional loyalty and Generation Y and Z were investigated via structural equation modelling (SEM).Design/methodology/approachData were collected through an online questionnaire directed to Indian consumers, and analysis was done through partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) in two stages, i.e. measurement model and structural model.FindingsResults confirm the relationships established in the proposed model, and some differences were found between the levels of emotional loyalty and the Generations Y and Z. The research shows that individualistic norms and perceived marketplace influence play a purposeful role in transforming environmental concerns into buying behaviour towards eco-innovation-driven products.Practical implicationsFrom a policy and management perspective, the results not only imply the importance of continuous performance and environmental improvement but also those policies hindering diffusion and adoption need to be addressed. Green buying is an elusive task but can be opportunely attained by marketers by adding elements of eco-innovations and understanding mindsets of consumers to create win–win situations for themselves and consumers.Originality/valueThe results reinforced that emotional loyalty and Generations Y and Z vitally impact consumers' green buying decision within the framework of eco-innovation and cognitive factors.

Financial development–ecological footprint nexus in Malaysia: the role of institutions

Abstract: PurposeMotivated by the conflicting evidence on the effect of financial development on environmental quality, this study investigates the moderating role of institutional quality in the link between financial development and environmental quality using a robust proxy in Malaysia from 1984 to 2017.Design/methodology/approachEcological footprint is used to measure environmental quality, while financial development is proxied using three measures (domestic credit provided by the private sector, domestic credit provided by the financial sector and domestic credit provided by the banking sector). An index of institutional quality is generated from voice and accountability, government effectiveness, regulatory quality, rule of law and control of corruption. Autoregressive Distributed Lag Bounds Test, Fully Modified Ordinary Least Square and Canonical Cointegrating Regression were used as the estimation techniques.FindingsThe results show that financial development, institutional quality, economic growth and foreign direct investment improve environmental quality in the short run, whereas trade openness and natural resources worsen it. In the long run, financial development, institutional quality, economic growth, trade openness and natural resources deteriorate the environment. Furthermore, findings from the interactive term suggest that institutions and financial development complement each other to affect the environment in the short run. However, institutions and financial development perform a substitutability role in influencing the environment in the long run.Practical implicationsThe outcome of this study suggests that there are time lags in the relationship between institutional quality, financial development and ecological footprint in Malaysia. Furthermore, the study offers important policy implications to policymakers in Malaysia and other developing countries on how to mitigate environmental degradation.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the body of knowledge on the moderating role of institutional quality in the relationship between financial development and ecological footprint in Malaysia. It examines the direct and indirect effects of financial development on environmental degradation through institutional quality, which have received less attention in the context of Malaysia. The findings from this study are robust to different proxies and estimation techniques.

Practices and performance outcomes of green supply chain management initiatives in the garment industry

Abstract: PurposeThe garments/textiles industry is the second most polluting industry in the world. However, efforts to understand and curtail its adverse environmental impacts have not been commensurate, and previous works have largely been fragmented and disjointed. This study aims to coduct a comprehensive and systematic green supply chain management (GSCM) investigation on this industry, where a multidimensional framework involving green supply chain practices and performance is developed, validated and applied.Design/methodology/approachA framework consisting of 12 constructs (8 on practices and 4 on performance) and their underlying measures were developed through an extensive literature review. A survey methodology was used to obtain responses from 403 garment-manufacturing firms in Bangladesh, one of the leading garment producers in the world. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were used first to validate the first- and second-order constructs and then test the hypothesized relationships.FindingsInternal environmental management and cooperation with stakeholders were identified as necessary precursors for implementing the second-order green supply chain practices comprising green design, green purchasing, green manufacturing, green transportation, green facilities and end-of-life management. The implementation of green supply chain practices was found to have a (direct) positive impact on environmental, economic and operational performance and an indirect positive impact on organizational performance. Similarly, both economic and operational performance was found to impact organizational performance positively. Surprisingly, a negative relationship (albeit low) was observed between environmental and organizational performance. Also, garment-manufacturing firms were found to have been unable to translate their IEM capabilities into strategic and long-term cooperation with stakeholders.Research limitations/implicationsThe study fills a gap in the literature about applying/implementing GSCM in the garment industry. Future studies in the garment industry and elsewhere could utilize the framework to understand further the synergistic impact of green supply chain practices on performance.Practical implicationsThe findings provide practitioners, policymakers and organizations associated with the garment industry with critical insights on the various opportunities and challenges in adopting GSCM. Also, the positive impact of green supply chain practices on performance could provide the impetus for manufacturing firms to adopt GSCM.Originality/valueA comprehensive GSCM investigation on the garment industry has not been previously attempted and constitutes the novelty of this work. Also, Bangladesh is the second-largest garment exporter worldwide, making this study contribution even more valuable.

Do ownership structures and governance attributes matter for corporate sustainability reporting? An examination in the Indian context

Abstract: Purpose Based on the essence of the legitimacy and agency theories, this study empirically investigates the influence of corporate governance attributes and ownership structures on sustainability reporting of companies listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), India. Design/methodology/approach The study is based on panel data regression analysis of sustainability reporting practices of 53 environmentally sensitive companies drawn from NIFTY100 Index at NSE. All data pertaining to sustainability information disclosure, ownership structure and corporate governance characteristics were sourced from sustainability report, business responsibility report, annual report and Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) database for the years 2015–2019. Findings The empirical result reveals that sustainability reporting scenario has been consistently improving in India. This study documents that government ownership and frequency of board meetings are the two most important factors significantly influencing the extent of sustainability information disclosure of companies. However, the present study failed to find any significant impact of board size and big4 auditing on sustainability reporting practices. Unexpectedly, a higher number of independent directors does not improve sustainability disclosure of companies in India. Originality/value This study is one of the first studies to investigate how the nature of ownership and corporate governance characteristics contribute to or impede sustainability reporting practices of companies in India. This study offers important insights to regulators, practitioners and investors to analyze whether sustainability disclosure of companies is influenced by corporate governance attributes. It also provides a perspective for regulators and corporate strategists to assess the impact of recent corporate governance reforms in India and consider how corporate governance mechanism can be used to improve sustainability reporting practices.

Theory of planned behavior in predicting the construction of eco-friendly houses

Abstract: PurposeThe present study aimed to explore the applicability of theory of planned behavior in construction of eco-friendly houses.Design/methodology/approachStudy utilized cross-sectional correlational research design, collected data from 269 adult house owners of Kerala, India, with the help of a self-report measures namely, attitude towards eco-friendly house construction, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, behavioral intention to build eco-friendly houses, check list of eco-friendly house and socio-demographic data sheet. Descriptive statistics, Karl Pearson product moment correlation, confirmatory factor analysis and mediation analysis with the help of AMOS were used to describe the distribution of study variables and to test the research hypotheses and proposed model.FindingsStudy revealed that behavioral intention to build eco-friendly house was the immediate and strongest predictor of actual behavior of constructing an eco-friendly house. Behavioral intention mediated the relationship of attitudinal variables, normative variables and control variables with the behavior of constructing eco-friendly houses.Research limitations/implicationsThe results vouched the applicability of theory of planned behavior as a comprehensive model in explaining the behavior of eco-friendly house construction.Practical implicationsResults of the study iterates the utility of attitudinal, normative and control factors in enhancing the choice of constructing eco-friendly houses. The results can be applied to develop a marketing tool to enhance the behavior of choosing or constructing eco-friendly houses in the population.Originality/valueRole of conventional concrete construction in climate crisis is unquestioned, and adopting eco-friendly architecture is a potential solution to the impending doom of climate crisis. Behavioral changes play a significant role in the success of global actions to curb the climate crisis. Present study discusses the role of psychological variables in constructing eco-friendly houses.

Analyzing the causal nexus between CO2 emissions and its determinants in India: evidences from ARDL and EKC approach

Abstract: PurposeThe present study is a novel attempt to measure the impact of population growth, natural resource depletion, non-renewable energy consumption, growth of national income, remittances inflow and industrial output on carbon dioxide emissions in India during the period of 1980–2018.Design/methodology/approachAutoregressive distributive lag (ARDL) is used to achieve the objective. The application of FMOLS (fully modified ordinary least squares), DOLS (dynamic ordinary least squares) and CCR (canonical cointegrating regression) techniques illustrate statistical robustness.FindingsThe long-run ARDL results confirm that increase in population, national income and energy consumption have a positive and significant impact on pollution levels in India. In contradiction to this, long run results further reveal that the increase in natural resource depletion, industrial output and remittances inflow have insignificant and negative impact on pollution levels in India. Further, the empirical findings did not find any evidence for the applicability of the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) in India during the study period.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is confined to only a few important determinants of CO2 emissions in India. However, there is a large chunk of studies that have incorporated other determinants of CO2 emissions. Specifying a few determinants of CO2 emissions in India is itself a lacuna in the present study. Moreover, taking the time period from 1980 to 2018 is also one of the limitations of the study.Practical implicationsPlenty of research has been devoted to the causal relationship between the environment and its various determinants. However, not much attention has been paid to investigating the association between population growth, natural resource depletion, energy consumption, GDP per capita, remittances inflow, industry and carbon dioxide emissions in India. Since, CO2 emissions are one of the widely accepted and applied emissions in EKC applications, which the present study intends to test. Moreover, the study employs advanced econometric techniques including ARDL framework, FMOLS, DOLS and CRR methodologies to achieve robust results. Such an investigation will potentially allow policymakers to frame efficient environmental and fiscal policies to achieve the desired results.Originality/valueThe continuous increase of CO2 emissions in India has compelled policy makers to prioritize this issue as soon as possible and formulate national environmental policy for reducing the share of carbon dioxides emissions in climate change. The study could constitute the focus of future research.

Urbanization and carbon dioxide (CO2) emission nexus in the CEMAC countries

Abstract: PurposeThis study investigates the relationship between urbanization and carbon dioxide emission in the Central African Economic and Monetary Community from 1990 to 2019. The literature reveals that the relationship between urbanization and carbon dioxide emissions is still debatable and the existing findings are inconclusive.Design/methodology/approachCarbon dioxide is the regressand; while, urbanization, gross domestic product (GDP) and financial development (FD), rule of law (ROL) and government effectiveness (GEF) are the regressors. Johansen Fisher and Kao residual co-integration tests alongside the fully modified and dynamic ordinary least squares.FindingsThe results show a significant positive relationship between urbanization and carbon dioxide emissions. The causality tests results show that carbon dioxide granger causes urbanization, GDP and FD unit directionally.Research limitations/implicationsThe countries' governments should effectively improve their legal systems to regulate carbon dioxide emissions. Urbanization laws should be implemented to limit urbanization environmental deteriorating effects on carbon dioxide emissions. This occurs as the countries practiced unregulated urbanization which increases population's environmental impacts. The study recommends sustainable green urbanization policies for environmental conservation through tree planting and horticulture. Balance development in urban and rural areas is vital to decongest the urban cities' pressure in the states. The governments should motivate the private sector with rural investments captivating policies to limit rural urban migration.Originality/valueThe findings contribute value by supporting a positive link between urbanization and carbon dioxide emissions in the CEMAC zone. The causality tests findings confirm the view that carbon dioxide granger causes urbanization, GDP and FD unit directionally. This value addition is essential to the governments and policy makers to mitigate urbanization and carbon dioxide emissions in the CEMAC region.

Evaluating the COVID-19 response policy's impact on carbon dioxide emissions in the top four CO2 emission countries

Abstract: PurposeThe stringency policy and economic support policy in response to and to address the coronavirus disease 2019 have become a significant concern since the end of 2019. The motivation that led to this study is that, the selection of the stringency policy and the economic support policy appear to have brought about the opposite effects of the environmental costs of carbon dioxide emissions. The study's objective is to examine the contradictory impacts of these stringency and economic support policies on carbon dioxide emissions.Design/methodology/approachThis study applies panel data for the top four countries responsible for carbon dioxide emission, namely China, the United States of America, India and Russia. A fully modified ordinary least squares estimator and dynamic ordinary least squares estimator are employed to determine the long-run parameters.FindingsThe results indicate that the effect of reduced carbon dioxide emissions due to a one-unit increase in the stringency policy is greater than the effect of increased carbon dioxide emissions caused by a one-unit increase in the economic support policy. Hence, if the two policies are implemented simultaneously, a positive net effect on environmental costs will be gained.Research limitations/implicationsThe study investigates in a general scope, the impact these response policies have on the environment. Future researchers may enhance the research on environmental impact in different sectors due to the implementation of both policies to enrich the analytical perspective.Practical implicationsThe results have provided implications for policymakers to emphasize more on stringency-oriented policies while giving economic support to the low-income or unemployed households in order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.Originality/valueDespite the foreseen effects of the stringency policy and economic support policy, there has hardly been any studies that have explored empirically the nexus between both policies with carbon dioxide emissions in one empirical model. Furthermore, the paper uses the high-frequency data in determining the contradictory impacts of stringency policy and economic support policy on CO2 emissions.

Boosting ecological food consumption behavior among millennials: role of health consciousness, perceived consumer effectiveness and ethical self-identity

Abstract: PurposeThe aim of the current study is to examine the effect of health consciousness, perceived consumer effectiveness and ethical self-identity on customers green purchase intention and actual behavior through an antecedent–focus–outcome relationship in the context of Bangladesh.Design/methodology/approachFor this study, research design was cross sectional and self-administered questionnaire was used for collecting data from the sample respondents. Primary data for this current study were collected from the segment termed as “millennium generation” which consists of young adults between the ages of 18–39 years. Sample technique of this study was judgmental, and a part of non-probability sampling was used for data collection. Statistical tools like SPSS and partial least square (PLS) were employed for the study to examine the impact of the constructs on green purchase intention and behavior.FindingsAfter analyzing the data, the empirical findings obtained via smart Partial Least Square (PLS) approach confirmed out that all the four factors have significant positive relationship with green purchase intention which is also positively related with actual purchase behavior regarding ecological food products.Research limitations/implicationsThe result of the current study provides better understanding and information for the organizations to give more emphasis on the association of health consciousness, ethical self-identity and perceived consumer effectiveness with green purchase intention and actual behavior. The present study will assist as a guide to provide several implications and recommendations to organizations, business owners, academicians and policymakers aiming to encourage green products adoption rate thereby reducing natural degradation and increasing environmental sustainability.Originality/valueThis research establishes the findings that more concentration should be given to enhance ecological consumption and environmental awareness to achieve environmental sustainability and ecological balance in Bangladesh and all other developing countries. The outcomes of the study also contribute to the existing literature by adding new insights to customers' environmental concern and green consumption behavior in the context of Bangladesh.

Stakeholders' engagement in the process of adapting to climate change impacts. A case of central Tanzania

Abstract: PurposeIt is imperative to intensively engage stakeholders in the process of adapting to climate change impacts because stakeholders are important components in adaptation process and policy formulation. However, there is slight empirical evidence that has been established to indicate whether the stakeholders are significantly involved in developing various adaptations plans.Design/methodology/approachAs a way of bridging that gap, this study adopted both primary and secondary data and assumed various techniques. In-depth, semi-structured interview was the major approach and most interviews were conducted between June and August 2020. Here, 20 stakeholders were involved in this kind of participatory process. To make results more rigorous, the data from interviews were enriched with data from documentary reviews. Generally, the data were analyzed through theme content analysis.FindingsThe results exhibit that there has been little engagement of stakeholders in undertaking various researches especially in marginalized areas. In some instances, several stakeholders have been included; however, the most important ones have been excluded in the process, thus affecting the provision of data. The inconsistences affect the whole adaptation process and bring numerous controversies with the existing realities which recognize stakeholders as important entity in the adaptation process. Subsequently, this has widely affected even the set ups of decision-making organs and the policy formulation processes at large.Originality/valueExplicitly, the results of this study are essential to climate scientists and practitioners, as the results reveal the real situation in the field. Similarly, the results inform how various sustainable projects, plans and policies related to climate change adaptations can be developed. Conclusions are therefore drawn to strengthen sustainable adaptation to climate change impacts through increased stakeholder involvement.

The role of tourism development in India's environmental degradation: evidence from ARDL and wavelet coherence approaches

Abstract: Purpose This empirical study explores the role of tourism development (TD) in India's environmental degradation. Since sustainable eco-tourism is essential for India, whose long-term economic prosperity also depends on robust tourism growth. Hence, this study offers specific policy proposals for sustainable tourism based on the simulated outcomes. Design/methodology/approach The study employed the quarterly data from 1995Q1–2018Q4 for empirical validation. Moreover, the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach, Toda and Yamamoto (TY) causality model and wavelet coherence are also used to analyse the role of TD in India's environmental degradation. Findings The ARDL bounds test confirms the long-run relationship between the series. The long-run results from the ARDL model also indicate the driving role of TD in India's environmental degradation. In addition, the usage of the wavelet coherence method confirms the changes in TD that leads to changes in India's pollution level at different frequencies and periods, especially in the long run. Research limitations/implications Since this analysis is India-specific, these findings may lack generalizability to other developing economies. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to examine the impact of tourism growth on the natural environment in other countries either in a panel or time-series framework. Practical implications This study suggests crucial implications for checking the pollution sands from TD without sacrificing tourism-led economic growth. This would be possible if the usage of green energy in India's transport sector is promoted. Originality/value This is the first study that analyzes the impact of TD on environmental degradation in the ARDL, wavelet coherence, TY frameworks for enabling the Indian economy for a sustainable tourism practice.

Examining consumer's purchasing behavior of energy-efficient appliance through the lenses of theory of planned behavior and environmental factors

Abstract: PurposeThis study investigates consumer purchases of energy-efficient appliances (EEAs). The adoption of EEA would reduce the detrimental impact of the environment from the consumer behavioral perspective.Design/methodology/approachThis study evaluates consumer purchase of EEA based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), environmental factors, and consumer energy-efficient behavior (EEB). Applying partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), 412 household respondents within the five regions in Malaysia were analyzed.FindingsFindings depicted that EEB has a significant influence on intention to purchase and subsequently purchasing behavior of EEA. Similarly, the TPB variables were significant predictors of EEB and intention to purchase except for attitude. Meanwhile, among the environmental factors, only environmental awareness was significant.Research limitations/implicationsImplications include integrating educational programs through formal and informal measures. The former includes infusing within the mainstream educational system. On the other hand, the latter is through effective and captivating media communication.Originality/valueThe integration of EEB towards consumers' intention and behavior of purchasing EEAs.

Musina Municipality tourism management and strategies: a sustainable-eco-tourism inclusive business insights for the town, abbuting peri-urban and countryside existences

Abstract: PurposeThis inquiry examines Musina Municipality's tourism development states and strategies with “a study of existing documents and respondents' acknowledgments on their conceived engagements on tourism administrations in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa.” Imports of sustainable tourism and community subsistence have developed in modern years. Yet, not numerous such investigations centered on synergies inside the assorted characters of tourism and their businesses. Besides, meaningful aid to promote local settlements and sustainability in provincial districts is not modestly perceived. Hence the foremost aim is to appraise a strategy for consolidating tourism as an instrument for sustainable local community development (SLMD). The examination reasons that Musina Municipality has abundant tourism feasibilities and natural resources but requires a more diverse dependable tourism plan around the ecotourism market to permit the local inhabitants while promoting environmental sustainability.Design/methodology/approachTo grasp the dynamics of tourism actualities and their management around the communities in the Municipality, Focus group discussion (FGDs), surveys, interviews and existing document inspections, supplemented by field observations, were appropriated. Consequently, Microsoft Excel, Cross-tabulation and manual sorting of data interpretation systematized the exploration of the data. The features supplementing the antecedent and modern tourism states toward sustainable-eco-tourism enterprises and assorted welfare in Musina Municipality got explained.FindingsThis study exposes an inoperative unity between sustainable tourism initiatives and ecotourism imperatives. The aforesaid could work enthusiastically on multiple forms of rural tourism in the adjoining local populations and the uprightness of urban tourism in Musina town. So, it has deliberated a basis for a conventional, sustainable, and ecotourism-bound market-orientated tourism approach to allow the local neighborhoods in Musina Municipality and its foundation toward the intact Province.Originality/valueMusina Municipality is among the renowned desiccate precincts in the North of Limpopo Province in South Africa. It got designated by the poverty-stricken rural populations. A predicament is kindred to various agricultural societies elsewhere in the world. The Municipality nevertheless grounds itself in a diverse tourism-based exhibition within the Limpopo province, the Vhembe region. Such particularized wealth manifest through ecotourism-based realities akin to the Nwanedi Provincial Park (NPP), Tshipise Forever Resort (TFF), Nwanedi Resort (NN) and many others.

The curious case of green human resource management practices in the Ghanaian manufacturing industry; a reality or a mirage?

Abstract: Purpose Based on the legitimacy theory, this study sought to explore specific Green Human Resource Management Practices implemented by manufacturing firms in Ghana.Design/methodology/approach The study purposively sourced data from five manufacturing firms operating in Ghana, specifically, Cocoa Processing Company, Dannex Aryton Starwin PLC, Fan Milk Limited, Guinness Ghana Breweries Limited and Unilever Ghana PLC. The qualitative data from 10 interviewees were thematically analysed.Findings Pervasively, it was evident that Ghanaian manufacturing firms have integrated environmental concerns into their human resource management functions, hence they place more emphasis on online tools and platforms in attracting, selecting, involving, training, paying and managing the performance of employees. Lastly, manufacturing firms operating in Ghana give priority to online job applications ahead of manual applications.Practical implications In an era of sustainability, green human resource management practices provide a basis for the legitimation and sustenance of businesses through enhanced environmental performance and its resultant corporate image.Originality/value The study highlights the extent to which green human resource management is practised in a Sub-Saharan African country and the specific practices adopted in promoting the concept.

How health consciousness and social consciousness affect young consumers purchase intention towards organic foods

Abstract: PurposeThis current research investigates antecedents affecting young consumers' purchasing intention of organic foods in a developing nation’s (Pakistan) context utilizing Theory of Planned Behavior. For this purpose, theoretical framework comprising characteristics of a product, concerns of consumers and consciousness were proposed.Design/methodology/approachResponses were collected from a sample comprising 418 young consumers through the convenience sampling technique. The data has been evaluated through Structural Equation Modeling.FindingsFindings demonstrate that characteristics of products and concerns of consumers significantly affect young consumer's health and social consciousness. However, such health and social consciousness were found to have an insignificant effect on young consumers' attitudes. Moreover, findings also show that attitude is positively linked with young consumers' purchase frequency towards organic foods. Outcomes also approve moderation of environmental awareness between attitude and organic food purchasing intention.Practical implicationsThe present study offers numerous implications for marketers, policymakers and socio-ecological organizations regarding development of intervention strategies to promote the purchase of organic foods. The study provides implications regarding making organic foods more accessible to all consumers in order to increase organic food consumption in developing countries.Originality/valueAlthough young consumers are aware of organic food products, their knowledge about the concept is limited. Therefore, this study provides an understanding of consumer's perspective regarding their purchase intention of organic foods, which will help marketers, researchers and food producers to achieve marketing strategies for the development of these products.

Adoption of blockchain technology enabled healthcare sustainable supply chain to improve healthcare supply chain performance

Abstract: PurposeThe COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant and worldwide influence on healthcare delivery, and it has significantly increased the pace at which digital technology is being used. Blockchain, one of these developing digital technologies, is distinguished by a number of properties. This study focuses on a blockchain-enabled healthcare supply chain. The purpose of this work is to investigate how blockchain technology (BCT) benefits the performance of healthcare supply chain management (HSCM).Design/methodology/approachThe present study is based on the empirical research. Blockchain Technology (BCT), Healthcare Sustainable Supply Chain Practices (HSSCP), Healthcare Supply Chain Performance (HSCP) and Stakeholders’ Involvement (SI) practices are identified from the literature review and hypotheses are framed to check their interrelationship. For testing of hypothesis, a questionnaire was developed. Data collection was done by healthcare professionals via Google docs. The IBM SPSS version 22.0 was used to analyze the data and IBM SPSS AMOS 22.0 software was used for the development of structural modal. The data was collected through the Google form from the stakeholders of healthcare sector and analyzed through Structural Equation Modelling.FindingsThis research is focused on adoption of BCT enabled Healthcare Sustainable Supply Chain to improve HSCP. From the result, it had been found that BCT is positively effecting the stakeholder's involvement (SI) and HSSCP practices. Cumulatively, they positively impact the performance of HSCP. From this study, it is found that adoption of BCT enabled Healthcare Sustainable Supply Chain succours to combat COVID-19 situation.Originality/valueThis study attempts to show the potential benefits of the adoption of BCT enabled HSSCP to improve HSCP.

Supply chain resilience and its key performance indicators: an evaluation under Industry 4.0 and sustainability perspective

Abstract: PurposeCreating visibility in the supply chain (SC) helps in making it resilient. Integrating the SC with Industry 4.0 key enabling technologies creates visibility and sustainability in SCs. It also fosters intelligent decision-making, thereby making a SC smart. However, how Industry 4.0 technologies affect key performance indicators (KPIs) of a resilient SC and may help achieve sustainability is rarely studied.Design/methodology/approachSixteen KPIs were identified from the literature review and analyzed using fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) using expert opinions. Further, a sensitivity analysis was conducted for the KPIs by varying the weightage of the criteria. Later, KPIs results were analyzed, and (1) how and which Industry 4.0 technology helps improve the KPI? (2) Resilience relationship with sustainability? were discussed.FindingsThe analyses show that the time-oriented (TO) is an essential criterion and organizational (OR) is the less important comparatively. Lead time, time to market and risk assessment frequency are the top KPIs that need a focus. Blockchain, Big Data and Cyber-physical systems enhance KPI's value and, in turn, foster economic, environmental and social sustainability of the SC and help in better decision making in terms of smart contracts, better forecasting and enhanced real-time information sharing.Originality/valueIdentification of the KPIs, the impact of Industry 4.0 technologies and the impact on sustainability; this kind of interplay is rarely evident in the literature. Understanding the findings of this research will help managers develop smart systems that may work intelligently to overcome risks associated and enhance sustainability. Academicians can use the findings and conduct future research that can overcome the limitations of this research.

Mediating effect of productivity between sustainable supply chain management practices and competitive advantage: evidence from apparel manufacturing in Bangladesh

Abstract: PurposeDrawing on the combined theoretical perspectives offered by the sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) practices view and the resource-based view (RBV), this study aims to examine whether pursuit of environmental, social and economic sustainability measures of SSCM practices drive competitive advantage (CA) among fashion-apparel manufacturing organizations in an emerging economy. Furthermore, the study investigates whether the above relationships are mediated by productivity.Design/methodology/approachBased on a theoretically supported conceptual framework, a set of hypotheses are tested by applying partial least squares structural equation modeling on a sample of 345 export-oriented fashion-apparel manufacturing companies in Bangladesh. SmartPLS (v.3.2) is applied to analyze the path model through bootstrapping procedure.FindingsThe findings suggest that the direct relationship between social sustainability dimension of SSCM practices along and CA is positive and significant. While the direct relationships between environmental sustainability and CA, and economic sustainability and CA, were found to be non-significant. However, when productivity was applied as a mediator, all the paths were significant.Research limitations/implicationsThe study contributes to the strategic management literature by presenting a combined theoretical perspective proposing the idea that sustainable supply chain practices can influence both productivity and CA, where productivity is a pertinent mediator.Practical implicationsThe study presents evidence for ready-made garments manufacturers in emerging economies on how compliance with environmental, social and economic sustainability measures in the supply chain of apparel manufacturers leads to gains in CA for the firms. Additionally, the study shows that such measures must also have a net positive impact on productivity to be able to influence CA significantly.Originality/valueThis paper appears to be among the first study that presents a framework based on a combined view of SSCM practices and RBV to empirically investigate the role of productivity as a mediator in the relationships between the sustainability dimensions of SSCM practices and CA in apparel manufacturing.

Averting the “resource curse phenomenon” through government effectiveness. Evidence from Ghana's natural gas production

Abstract: PurposeThe “resource curse phenomenon” has received a lot of attention from researchers; however, there has not been any sound explanation to back this phenomenon since the main reason why natural resource should restrain economic growth instead of boosting economic growth remains unanswered. This paper contributes to literature on “resource curse hypothesis” by examining the role of government effectiveness in influencing the impact of gas resource rent on economic growth.Design/methodology/approachThe study adopted the Cobb-Douglass production and incorporated gas resource rent, institutional quality (government effectiveness), inflation and exchange rate as additional variables that influences total output (gross domestic product). The author estimated the empirical form of the Cobb-Douglass production using autoregressive distributed lag model (ARDL) and Toda and Yamamoto (1995) as the main estimation strategies while other time series approaches were used as a robustness check.FindingsThe estimates from the ARDL short-run and the long-run dynamics suggest that the direct impact of gas resource rent on economic growth was positive but not statistically significant. At the same time, the interacting of gas resource rent and government effectiveness showed a positive and statistically significant effect of nearly 0.4123 and 0.8724 on economic growth in the long run and short run, respectively. The results from the Toda and Yamamoto (1995) also indicated that economic growth has a strong influence on gas resource rent while government effectiveness drives economic growth and not vice versa.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings from this study imply that government effectiveness plays a crucial role in averting the “resource curse phenomenon”. Hence, improving government effectiveness and efficiency through minimizing corruption among state institutions would be imperative in curbing the “resource curse phenomenon” in developing countries.Originality/valueThe influential role of government effectiveness on the relationship between gas resource rent on economic growth is examined.

A grey-based framework for circular supply chain management: a forward step towards sustainability

Abstract: PurposeCircular supply chain management (CSCM) has the potential to compensate for the drawbacks of the linear supply chain model. Therefore, the objective of this study is to identify and prioritise the significant enablers related to the effective management of the circular supply chain (CSC).Design/methodology/approachThe significant enablers of CSCM are identified through a two-step process of literature review and grey-Delphi approach. Further, an integrated grey-based Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) is applied to prioritise these enablers.FindingsThis study proposes a grey-based framework to identify and evaluate the enablers associated with CSCM. A total of 12 significant CSCM enablers are finalised per the proposed framework. The findings suggest that the top three enablers are "long-term planning", "development of CE culture" and "alignment of CE goals with strategic objectives". These enablers require the attention of the top management and supply chain partner on priority.Research limitations/implicationsThis study identifies 12 enablers through the literature review, so there is a possibility to overlook some significant enablers. However, the expert's input is used to finalise and analyse the enablers, which can be biased towards their working level.Originality/valueThis study proposes a grey-based framework to identify and analyse the CSC enablers rarely investigated in the contemporary literature. The paper is strong in methodological contributions and gives practitioners and researchers a better framework for CSCM.

Does media exposure moderate the relationship between ownership structure and environmental disclosure quality: evidence from Jordan

Abstract: PurposeGiven the increasing emphasis on environmental issues, this study attempts to offer concrete evidence on the relationship between ownership structure and environmental disclosure quality and whether media exposure moderates this relationship.Design/methodology/approachThe sample adopted in this study includes a group of 94 Jordanian companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange from 2010 to 2016. Data about companies' environmental disclosure were manually collected using the content analysis method.FindingsOur findings reveal that increasing the levels of ownership concentration and management ownership can negatively impact the quality of environmental reporting among companies in Jordan. This type of reporting, however, is likely to be benefited from the presence of a high level of foreign ownership. In terms of the role played by media, media coverage may act as a buffer against the negative relationship between environmental reporting and ownership concentration and management ownership. On the other hand, the relationship between foreign ownership and environmental reporting remains positive and significant no matter the amount of media attention the company is receiving.Originality/valueThis study is crucial because it contributes to the existing environmental debate studies in two crucial ways. It first offers the first evidence on how media exposure can moderate the relationship between ownership structure and environmental disclosure. Second, this study's findings provide important implications for regulators and policymakers in Jordan.

Is agricultural development good for carbon mitigation in India? Evidence from the asymmetric NARDL model

Abstract: PurposeThe main objective of the present study is to figure out the effect of agricultural development on environmental pollution in the Indian context over the period 1970 to 2018. The study also tests the applicability of pollution haven hypothesis.Design/methodology/approachTo begin with, the authors test the stationarity of the variables by using the DF-GLS and KPSS tests. To examine the relationship between agricultural development and carbon emissions, the study applies nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag cointegration test developed by Shin et al. (2014). The study also applies Wald test to test the asymmetry between agriculture and environmental pollution.FindingsThe findings of this study indicate that agricultural development in India is good for carbon mitigation in the long run whereas energy consumption degrades the environment. The findings document the existence of an asymmetric association between agricultural development and environmental pollution. Furthermore, the results did not find any presence of pollution haven hypothesis for India.Originality/valueThis is the only empirical work that assesses the contribution of agricultural sector to carbon mitigation in the Indian context. The novelty of the study is further ensured by the very nature that it is the first study that examines the effect of agricultural sector on environment in an asymmetric configuration.

Positive side effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on environmental sustainability: evidence from the quadrilateral security dialogue countries

Abstract: PurposeThe eruption of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has pointedly subdued global economic growth and producing significant impact on environment. As a medicine or a treatment is yet available at mass level, social distancing and lockdown is expected the key way to avert it. Some outcome advocates that lockdown strategies considered to reduce air pollution by curtailing the carbon emission. Current investigation strives to affirm the impact of lockdown and social distancing policy due to covid-19 outbreak on environmental pollution in the QUAD nations.Design/methodology/approachTo calibrate the social movement of public, six indicators such residential mobility, transit mobility, workplace mobility, grocery and pharmacy mobility, retail and recreation mobility and park mobility have been deliberated. The data of human mobility have been gathered from the Google mobility database. To achieve the relevant objectives, current pragmatic analysis exerts a panel autoregressive distributed lag model (ARDL)-based framework using the pooled mean-group (PMG) estimator, proposed by Pesaran and Shin (1999), Pesaran and Smith (1995).FindingsThe outcome reveals that in the long-run public mobility change significantly impact the pollutants such as PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide; however, it does not lead to any changes on ozone level. As per as short run outcome is concerned, the consequence unearths country wise heterogeneous impact of different indicators of public mobility on the air pollution.Research limitations/implicationsThe ultimate inferences of the above findings have been made merely on the basis of examination of QUAD economies; however, comprehensive studies can be performed by considering modern economies simultaneously. Additionally, finding could be constraint in terms of data; for instance, Google data used may not suitably signify real public mobility changes.Originality/valueA considerable amount of investigation explores the impact of covid-19 on environmental consequences by taking carbon emission as a relevant indicator of environmental pollution. Hence, the present pragmatic investigation attempts to advance the present discernment of the above subject in two inventive ways. Primarily, by investigating other components of environmental pollution such as nitrogen dioxide, PM2.5 and ozone, to reveal the impact of covid-19 outbreak on environmental pollution, as disregarded by the all preceding studies. Additionally, it makes a methodological contribution before integrating supplementary variables accompanying with ecological air pollution. Finally, the current research article provides an alternative and creative approach of modeling the impact of public mobility on environmental sustainability.

Determinants of on-demand ridesharing: the role of awareness of environmental consequences

Abstract: PurposeThe primary goal of this study is to determine the predictors of on-demand ridesharing intention in an emerging economy. For this purpose, the study uses the theoretical underpinnings of the theory of planned behavior (TPB).Design/methodology/approachThe study surveyed 347 frequent users of ridesharing services using a set of pre-validated scales. The resulting data were analyzed using covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM).FindingsThe results of SEM analysis disclosed that the significant factors contributing to ridesharing intention are awareness of environmental consequences, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control and attitude (towards ridesharing).Practical implicationsThis empirical research provides statistically robust insights for developing marketing strategies that attract more individuals toward ridesharing services.Originality/valueThis research has remarkable significance as it is one of the pioneering studies that critically examine the determinants of ridesharing intention from a South Asian emerging economy. Further, the extended TPB framework proposed in this study explains 71.4% variance in ridesharing intention, which is significantly higher than existing studies, with none of them explaining more than 70% variance.

Electric vehicle charging infrastructure: positioning in India

Abstract: PurposeThe study identifies the challenges of developing the “electric vehicle (EV)” charging infrastructure in India, having an ambitious target of 30% EV adoption by 2030.Design/methodology/approachFirst, a systematic literature review determined EV adoption and challenges in the EV charging infrastructure development globally and specifically in India. Secondly, a focussed group study in which 10 domain experts were consulted to identify additional challenges in India's EV adoption involving EV charging infrastructure.FindingsAccordingly, 11 significant challenges of EV charging infrastructure development in India have been identified–seven through the comparative analysis of the literature review and four from the focussed group study. Secondary data provides insight into the situation around developed countries and in developing countries, specifically in India. Finally, the Government of India's measures and priorities to facilitate such a development are emphasised.Research limitations/implicationsThe study can help policymakers/researchers understand the gaps and align measures to address the challenges. A focussed group study may have its limitations due to the perception of the experts.Originality/valueThe systematic literature review of 43 articles using comparative analysis and subsequently a focussed group study of experts to verify and add challenges has made the study unique.

Exploring environmental – economic performance linkages in EU agriculture: evidence from a panel cointegration framework

Abstract: PurposeWithin an effort of European Union (EU) policy to achieve carbon-neutral agriculture, the present study intends to explore the impact of carbon emissions generated by different sources related to agriculture namely energy used in farming, by enteric fermentation and by fertilizers on agricultural income in 25 countries from EU.Design/methodology/approachIn order to evaluate the environmental – economic performance linkage for EU agriculture, we employ a couple of different widely used panel unit root tests explicitly Levin, Li and Chu, Im, Pesaran and Shin, ADF and PP Fisher Chi-square test cointegration test (Pedroni and Kao cointegration tests) and model estimation methodologies namely the FMOLS and DOLS and ARDL – PMG models.FindingsAll the cointegration techniques employed namely Pedroni, Kao test and Johansen Pesaran cointegration tests validate the existence of long run relationships. The most significant finding is the model estimation based on three different methodologies namely FMOLS, DOLS and ARDL/PMG models. No convergence in the results was found by different estimation models. For the short term coefficients and more specifically for the case of carbon emissions generated by energy the impact on agricultural income seems to be decreasing with a decreasing trend, a result that validates the little effort made by farmers to limit carbon emissions along with the limited efficacy of the implementing policy. The same findings are valid for the first two estimation models while for the case of the third model the reversed relationship is validated. For the carbon emissions generated by enteric fermentation, the inverted-U pattern is validated with DOLS and ARDL/PMG model while for the case of fertilizers only the third model confirms the validity of inverted-U- pattern.Practical implicationsBased on the obtained empirical results, a list of policy implications is unveiled with multiple impacts on the strategy and practices adopted by farmers in order for the objective of eco efficieny to be achieved.Originality/valueThe conducted research is focusing on the environmental – economic performance linkages for EU agriculture and examines the role of agri – environmental policy in the evolution of the particular relationship for different sources of environmental pollution in agricultural activity.

Blockchain-based circular economy for achieving environmental sustainability in the Indian electronic MSMEs

Abstract: PurposeThe circular economy is a production and consumption model that encourages people to share, lease, reuse, repair, refurbish and recycle existing materials and products for as long as possible. The blockchain-based circular economy is being used in many industries worldwide, but Indian electronic MSMEs face many problems in adopting a blockchain-based circular economy. The research aims to discover the barriers the electronic MSMEs face in adopting a blockchain-based circular economy and pull back from achieving environmental sustainability in their operations.Design/methodology/approachFifteen barriers are identified from the literature review and finalized with experts' opinions. These barriers are evaluated by using interpretive structural modeling (ISM), MICMAC analysis and fuzzy TOPSIS method.FindingsLack of support from distribution channels, lack of traceability mechanism and customer attitudes toward purchasing remanufactured goods are identified as the most critical barriers.Practical implicationsThe study will benchmark the electronic MSMEs in achieving environmental sustainability in the blockchain-based circular economy.Originality/valueIt is a study that not only establishes a hierarchical relationship among the barriers of blockchain adoption in Indian electronic MSMEs but also verifies the results with fuzzy TOPSIS method.

Malaysia's low-cost housing solid waste management in the era of COVID-19: the role of fourth industrial revolution technologies

Abstract: PurposeStudies have shown that managing household solid waste from low-cost housing in urban and sub-urban communities is challenging, especially in developing countries and COVID-19 era. Previous research proved that the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technologies could be engaged to improve urban public services such as household solid waste. Thus, the study investigated 4IR role in improving low-cost housing solid waste management (LCHSWM) in the COVID-19 era across Malaysia's cities.Design/methodology/approachThe researchers selected four Malaysian cities (Pulau Pinang, Kuala Lumpur, Kuching and Putrajaya) to achieve the study's objectives via a qualitative research design. The study engaged forty experts through semi-structured virtual interviews. A thematic approach was used to analyse the collected data.FindingsFindings identified initial high implementation and maintenance costs, unwillingness to accept change, inadequate knowledge and skilled personnel to manage the operation, amongst others, as the perceived challenges facing 4IR technologies in managing low-cost housing solid waste across Malaysian cities in the COVID-19 era. Also, the study proffered measures to improve 4IR technologies usage.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper is limited to the perceived contributory challenges and proffered measures to improve 4IR technologies usage in managing LCHSW across Malaysian cities in the COVID-19 era.Practical implicationsProffered measures will stir policymakers and the political class (city councils) to start thinking of an all-inclusive approach to addressing the issue of LCHSW in the 21st century. As part of the practical implications, the possible outcome might enhance collaboration between the public and private sectors to better service delivery to mitigate environmental degradation.Originality/valueAs revealed in the review, there is a paucity of literature regarding digital technology's roles in mitigating LCHSW across Malaysian cities in the COVID-19 era.

Domino-effect of energy consumption and economic growth on environmental quality: role of green energy in G20 countries

Abstract: PurposeThis study explores the interplay among climate change, economic growth and energy consumption in G20 countries by considering the role of green energy.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses various empirical tools to determine the association between carbon emissions, economic growth, renewables, non-renewables, population and urbanization for a panel of G20 countries between 1990 and 2014.FindingsEmpirical outcomes from various empirical tools reveal a positive and significant impact of economic growth, non-renewable energy consumption and urbanization on carbon emissions, and their increase will further lead to the deterioration of environmental quality. The elasticity coefficient of renewable energy coefficient is negative and significant implying an increase in its consumption will improve environmental quality. Panel causality test results reveal the existence of both short-run and long-run causality among the variables. Therefore, results infer that a reduction in the consumption of non-renewable and substitution with renewables will have a significant impact on carbon emission mitigation.Originality/valueThrough this study, the authors suggest the sustainable use of renewables as they are sustainable, secure, efficient, environmentally justifiable and economically viable sources of energy. Therefore, replacing traditional non-renewables with modern renewables has the potential in avoiding the dangerous impacts of greenhouse gases (GHGs) particularly in the G20 countries. This paper intends to guide policymakers regarding the environmental quality and renewable energy consumption required to hold back the fossil fuel dependence for a cleaner and greener planet.

Assessing behavioral intentions of solar energy usage through value-belief-norm theory

Abstract: PurposeThis study aims to investigate people pro-environmental behavior toward solar energy in Pakistan. Solar energy is perceived as environment friendly because it does not need any fossil fuel and is free of greenhouse gas emission. Hence current research used to employ value-belief-norm theory with regard to solar energy to recognize people's interest for solar energy. Further this study also makes an effort for extend of value-belief-norm framework via using social norm as being a predictor of pro-environmental behavior and personal norm.Design/methodology/approachThis study follows positivism philosophy based on quantitative in nature. Proposed hypothesis was tested through deductive research approach. Data was collected through survey method. Further general public was selected as population and non-probability convenience sampling technique was used for data collection. A total 1,000 online questionnaire were sent through different mediums on Internet, out of which 624 responses were received. Further this study used Smart-Pls 3 software for the analysis of data.FindingsThe results show that all hypothesis were approved except one. Furthermore, social norm was discovered as a positive indicator of personal norm, and pro-environmental behavior. Also, personal norm was found as mediating the relation between social norm and people's pro-environment behavior toward solar energy.Practical implicationsThis research also adds to the existing research in field of environmental sustainability. Furthermore, it would prove to be a rational document for policymakers and the government to develop strategies to overcome environment and energy related issues.Originality/valueThis study identifies the people's pro-environmental behavior toward solar energy by applying value-belief-norm theory in context of Pakistan, to overcome energy related environmental issues.