International Journal of Sustainable Society (19 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Climate Smart Agriculture and Sustainability: A Bibliometric Analysis  
  by Abhineet Saxena, Garima Pancholi, Amit Jain 
  Abstract: Climate change disrupts the ecological balance, with temperature rises, droughts, and unpredictable weather harming agriculture. Implementing climate-smart agriculture (CSA) can reduce greenhouse gases, boost crop yields, and enhance resilience to climate change. The primary purpose of this study is to provide a structured review and comprehend how previous research work captures CSA and Sustainability. In this study, a total of 183 documents were retrieved from the Scopus database published from 2013to 2022. This bibliometric analysis shows that CSA and sustainability have gained momentum since 2015. The USA has contributed the most while India is contributing a lot in the research field of CSA. Campbell has the highest number of publications and Wageningen University and Research are leading in Affiliation productivity. This research paper is relevant to those researchers who are aiming to comprehend CSA for sustainability and food security.
  Keywords: climate change; climate smart agriculture; CSA; greenhouse gases; bibliometric analysis; VOSviewer.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2026.10065346
   
  
• Explaining Green Future Purchase Intention of Household Appliances: a Perspective from a Developing Economy  
  by Wajeeha Aslam, Marija Ham, Imtiaz Arif, Kashif Farhat 
  Abstract: This study aims to examine the impact of consumption values on green customer satisfaction and its impact on trust and loyalty of green household appliances. The study also examines the impact of trust and loyalty on personal reciprocity, and its impact on green household future purchase intention. On a useful sample of 300 from Karachi, Pakistan, 52.6% were males and 47.3% were females. The results after applying PLS-SEM technique revealed that emotional, functional, environmental, and social values significantly affect green customer satisfaction. In contrast, economic value does not have any impact on green customer satisfaction. The findings further reveal that green customer satisfaction positively affects trust and loyalty. Moreover, trust and loyalty both affect personal reciprocity, and that significantly affects green future purchase intention of household appliances. The study offers various implications to marketers, environmentalists, and practitioners of green household appliances.
  Keywords: personal reciprocity; consumption values; green consumer satisfaction; green future purchase intention.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2026.10066907
   
  
• Investigating the Female Attitude and Purchase Intention towards Green Cosmetics in Pakistan  
  by Kashif Farhat, Wajeeha Aslam, Lei Wang 
  Abstract: By extending the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), the study aims to identify the factors affecting attitude and purchase intention of female consumers towards green cosmetics. The data was collected from female green cosmetics consumers in Karachi, Pakistan, by following the purposive sampling technique, and on a useful sample of 313, PLS-SEM was employed for testing hypotheses. Results showed that attitude and perceived behavioural control (PBC) significantly affects purchase intention of green cosmetics. Perceived quality, environmental concern, health consciousness, and ecological motive positively affects attitude towards green cosmetics. In contrast, environmental knowledge failed to have an impact on attitude. The result further reveals that subjective norm (SN) positively affects attitude and PBC. Furthermore, attitude and PBC mediate the relationship between SN and purchase intention. The findings offer various insights to environmentalist, green cosmetics manufacturers, and marketers to build appropriate strategies for increasing consumers' attitude and purchase intention towards green cosmetics.
  Keywords: attitude; green cosmetics; organic cosmetics; purchase intention; theory of planned behaviour; TPB; Pakistan.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2026.10067232
   
  
• Working-from-Home and the Potential for Emission Reduction in Vietnam  
  by Yen Dan Tong, Phuong Duy Nguyen, Thi Hong Nhung Vo, Van Ngan Nguyen, Hoa Nhai Pham 
  Abstract: Working-from-home is a promising strategy for reducing GHG emissions in transport sector, especially when it was significantly triggered by pandemic. However, the understanding of its ability to reduce emissions is still ambiguous, especially in developing countries. This study aims to fill the gap by investigating the possibility of reducing GHG emissions when people in Da Nang, Vietnam switch to WfH and not take trips to work. The results show that the amount of GHG savings from trips for work and study purposes is 1.75% to 8.75% a week, which is negligible. However, in view of the growing trend of WfH amid and post pandemic, the development of transport policies towards sustainability must take into account the comprehensive scope of the impact of travel behaviours. Specifically, policies to reduce GHG emissions must be considered in a holistic way both for-work and not-for-work trips.
  Keywords: GHG emissions; emission reduction; travel diary; Vietnam; remote working; working from home.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2026.10067415
   
  
• Attitude Formation Towards Social Entrepreneurship among Gen Y and Gen Z: an Empirical Investigation in the UAE  
  by Zahra Allowatia, Sanjai K. Parahoo, Meera AlMarri, Ardhendu Shekhar Singh, Sabiha Mumtaz 
  Abstract: The study investigates the factors that motivate Gen Y and Gen Z to embark on social entrepreneurship (SE), focusing on how the digital environment shapes their attitudes. Using a qualitative exploratory research design comprising of in-depth interviews with 22 respondents in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), various antecedents of attitude formation are mapped in a conceptual model. Two personal factors, self-efficacy and values significantly shaped the attitudes of youth towards social entrepreneurship (SE). These two factors were influenced by support and mentoring, and knowledge acquisition, which in turn, were influenced by four enablers: digital networks and social media, educational platforms, enabling institutions, and the support of family and friends. The findings may be used by policy makers and NGOs to promote SE. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have a young population, and the involvement of the youth as social entrepreneurs would supplement the efforts of public institutions towards sustainable development.
  Keywords: Social entrepreneurship; Attitude Formation; Self-Efficacy; Values; Gen Y and Z; digital environment; sustainable development; Millennials; UAE; GCC.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2026.10067489
   
  
• What Can I do about It? - the Rising Awareness of the Trend of Mitigating Household Food Waste among Members of Generation Z  
  by Magdalena Kubal-Czerwi?ska 
  Abstract: Food waste is a significant global issue with environmental, economic, and social impacts. As sustainability becomes increasingly important, Generation Z's role in shaping attitudes toward food waste is crucial. Understanding the awareness and knowledge of high school students can help develop effective strategies for reducing household food waste. This article presents the scope of awareness and knowledge about the problem of reducing food waste in households among schoolers. Forty-five students aged 16-18 from 15 upper secondary schools in rural and urban areas of Malopolska Voivodeship participated in the study. Using the World Cafe method, the paper revealed that high school students are highly aware of ways to reduce household food waste, aligning with recommendations from organisations like food banks. Their insights offer valuable benchmarks for strategies to reduce food waste and highlight their influence in educating other generations.
  Keywords: food waste; household; Generation Z; high school students; Poland.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2026.10068847
   
  
• Driving Factors of Land Surface Temperature in Urban Areas  
  by Hamed Faroqi 
  Abstract: Land Surface Temperature (LST) is a valuable product derived from satellite remotely sensed images. LST has many applications in disciplines such as Geology, Oceanology, Agriculture, Urbanology, etc. LST modelling in urban areas can help to understand urban structure and dynamics better. A few recent studies have investigated spatial variation and driving factors of LST. This study uses statistical modelling approaches to understand the driving factors of urban LST. Firstly, the LST map for the study area is produced. Secondly, the driving factors of the literature are reviewed, and seven driving factors are selected and produced for the study area. Thirdly, the correlation matrix, linear regression (Ordinary Least Squares (OLS)), Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) are used to measure the relationship between the LST and driving factors. The study area is in Tehran, IRAN, and the satellite image is downloaded from the Landsat 9 mission. Outcomes of the CFA model show better RMSE than OLS. Land Cover Types have the highest impact on the LST. Therefore, the relationship between the LST and driving factors was discovered and better measured by CFA discovering latent factors.
  Keywords: Geomatics; spatial science; urban dynamics; urban heat; planning.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2026.10070261
   
  
• Edtech Adoption in Slum Children Education: an Initiative to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals  
  by Manas Upadhyay 
  Abstract: The research focuses on the problems associated with the access to education and learning achievement levels in relation to slum children. However, its adoption is not easy. Edtech is reported as boom for slum children which can provide cost effective learning to the students. Most of the educational content is free online which the students can access. Edtech can be a recommendation for immediate attention at the policy and implementation levels which can improve the condition of slum children education. In the presented research, factors affecting Edtech adoption are explored using extensive literature review and in discussion with experts. The identified factors were assessed using Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) technique. As a result, the factors affecting Edtech adoption are categorized in to cause and effect category. The research results helps to understand the major obstacles for Edtech adoption so that required measures can be taken to ease its adoption.
  Keywords: Edtech; slum education; DEMATEL; academic performance. Sustainable education.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2026.10070876
   
  
• Comparative Review on Personal Information Protection in the Age of Big Data for the Legislation Actuality in Countries  
  by X. Teng, Z.J. Shen 
  Abstract: This paper compares personal information protection regulations across various countries, aiming to enhance data security while ensuring its responsible use. As countries continue to promote informatisation and the widespread use of the internet, new challenges arise in protecting personal information. The abuse of personal data, particularly in the age of big data, has drawn significant attention. This paper aims to ensure the responsible use of big data while safeguarding personal information, providing better smart services for the digitalisation of cities and buildings in the field of smart habitat for humanity.
  Keywords: personalized smart service; personal infiltration; computer law; legislation and supervision; governance; stakeholders.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2026.10072383
   
  
• Sustainability Disclosure and Financial Performance: a Literature Review on Research Trend  
  by Amos O. Talabi, F.M. Taib, D.B. Jalaludin 
  Abstract: This paper presents a review of literature on how sustainability reporting (SP) influences financial performance (FP). The study maps the trends in the fields of SP and FP related using a bibliometric approach. The scoping literature review with The Lens.com as an online database were employed for selecting 245 published academic papers, out of which, 102 papers were selected for trend and word cloud analysis over a ten-year period. The study observed application of multiple theories. In applying theories, researchers should have thorough understanding of the study context, organisational components, countries' existing laws, sociocultural diversity and geographical location of companies. Inconsistencies in the previous empirical results were due to differences in methodology. This article will increase managers' knowledge of the need to report firm operations to stakeholders as a strategy for improving corporate performance. The study recommends for theory selection based on company attributes, countries' existing laws and sociocultural diversity.
  Keywords: Sustainability Reporting; Financial Performance; Theories; Trend Analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2026.10072384
   
  
• Consumer Readiness for Organic Purchase: Moderating Role of Food Neophilia and Food Neophobia in between Buying Intention and Buying Behaviour  
  by Shrish Singh, Vikas Tyagi, Girish Kathuria, Vijay Jain, Prashant Trivedi 
  Abstract: The objective of this study is to examine customers buying intentions and their actual buying behaviour by exploring the moderating role of food neophilia and food neophobia between them for organic foods. A theoretical framework was proposed to explain and empirically verify the impact of purchase intention on consumer buying behaviour. The proposed model was assessed and validated using Partial Least Square Path Modelling (PLS-PM) with 250 respondents data collected through cross-sectional survey. The findings show that food neophilia (defined as a readiness to try new foods) increases the possibility that customers will translate their good purchasing intentions into actual organic food purchases while food neophobia (a reluctance to try unknown foods) serves as a barrier in actual buying behaviour. The study highlights that it is crucial for food businesses to comprehend food neophilia and neophobia, especially when introducing organic foods. The study provides useful information for marketers and food producers looking to effectively promote organic foods. The study suggests to marketers that sensory marketing, educational campaigns, and clear labelling to reduce food neophobia, while through promotion of novelty, uniqueness and innovativeness of foods may increase the feeling of neophilia.
  Keywords: Food Neophilia; Food Neophobia; Organic Food; Buying Intention; Buying Behaviour; TPB.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2026.10072419
   
  
• Evaluation Method of Traditional Values of Rural Villages by Landscape Administration in Hokuriku District, Japan  
  by Junhe Wu, X. Teng, Z.J. SHEN, Takemichi Yasuda, Jinming Jiang 
  Abstract: The preservation of the traditional rural settlement faces complex challenges around the world, even though they are protected by laws and regulations. The research focuses on village preservation projects implemented by local municipal authorities in Japan. The results of this study are summarised as follows: 1) the landscape administrative organisation, the designation of village preservation projects, the landscape related ordinance and local bylaws, and the preservation planning are different among the three prefectures, which are Ishikawa, Toyama and Fukui; 2) based on designation criteria of the designated districts and housings in the traditional village settlements for the village traditional preservation projects, the types of the evaluation method of traditional values are classified into the types of the evaluation method of the traditional value, in which Toyama Prefecture is spiritual symbolism type, Ishikawa Prefecture is local specificity type, Fukui Prefecture is balance type.
  Keywords: Preservation Projects; Designation Criteria; Preservation Methods; Local Landscape Administration; Local Ordinances; Landscape Law.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2026.10072562
   
  
• Environmental Issues and Sustainable Indigenous Practices of North-East India  
  by Smita Sundaram, Hritushna Bailung Baruah, Rimjhim Chaudhary, Anusmita Mahanta, Parismita Phukan, Payal Mago 
  Abstract: North-East, famous for lush green hills and scenic landscapes has much more to offer to people ranging from rich cultural heritage to their sustainable indigenous practices. Bamboo serves the need of the North-East people in unique ways. Bamboo is a versatile plant it’s used for construction, medicine, clothing, craft and food. Sustainability and development have always remained an issue of utmost importance. They have adopted various sustainable practices for the protection of biological diversity. The sustainable textile industry of the North-East occupies a unique and important place in the indigenous textile culture of India. North-East also have several sacred groves. The sacred grooves help in maintain the forest cover in the region and are a haven for many species of flora and fauna. The region also offers tremendous scope for eco-tourism, being blessed with scenic beauty, distinct historical culture and ethnic heritage.
  Keywords: Sustainable practices; Bamboo; Sacred groves; Eco-Tourism; Conservation.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2027.10073838
   
  
• Consideration of the Effectiveness of Inter-School Collaboration in Human Resource Development in Educating Nursing Care Workers  
  by Chi Nghia Nguyen, Masami Saito 
  Abstract: A shortage of nursing care personnel is an urgent issue in Japan. As one response, national contests for nursing care workers and high school students disseminate the attractions of the field, increase professional motivation and pride, and improve skills. This study surveyed 18 participants from universities A and B to examine their learning in the International Nursing Care Technique Contest, a collaborative inter-school activity. Results showed gains in communication, collaboration, flexible thinking, and the acquisition of teaching methods. Students also demonstrated acceptance of users and support for their independence, understanding of users physical functions, attention to the safety of welfare equipment, and accepting, flexible responses to people with dementia. The contest winner was a Vietnamese team with relatively low Japanese-language proficiency, suggesting the importance of nonverbal communication in nursing care. We conclude that nursing care skills are attainable for students outside welfare disciplines and can meet employers practical needs.
  Keywords: inter-school collaboration; International Nursing Care contest; nursing care skills; international students; nonverbal communication.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2027.10074992
   
  
• Control Model for Forest Areas In Anai Watershed, West Sumatera Province, Indonesia  
  by Iswandi Umar, Dian Adhetya Arif, Reski Pratama 
  Abstract: This study examines the impact of uncontrolled land use changes on watershed sustainability and its control model policy at Anai Watershed West Sumatera. Using Landsat images from 2000 to 2022, forest area changes were assessed, and a projection for 2030 was made using the CA-Markov method. The Kappa statistical method assessed classification accuracy. Policy directions for land use control were determined through the Analytical Hierarchy Process with input from 20 experts. Forest area decreased from 37,535.24 ha in 2000 to 32,763.11 ha in 2022. By 2030, it is projected to be 25,990.93 ha. Expert assessments identified three priority control alternatives: promoting alternative economic activities for forest communities, stakeholder collaboration, and enforcing laws against forest destruction, with institutional criteria having the highest weight.
  Keywords: AHP method; Cellular automata; Land use Change; Land use control; Watershed.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2027.10075235
   
  
• The Role of Political Actors in Managing Environmental Challenges in Mediterranean Coastal Urban Areas of Northwest Morocco  
  by Rachid Azougagh, Mustapha Hmamou, Noureddine Chikhi, Nourddin Elhaiek 
  Abstract: Coastal cities on the northeast side of the Tangier Peninsula, such as Fnideq, M’diq, Martil, and Oued Laou, are affected by overcrowding and several environmental issues, including coastal retreat, high solid waste generation, water scarcity, rising flood risk, and vegetation degradation. This article aims to unravel these challenges, assess how local political actors incorporate environmental concerns into their programs, and explore citizens' knowledge and perceptions of institutional performance. Drawing on a mix of inductive and deductive methodology, statistical methods, fieldwork-based surveys and questionnaires answered by inhabitants or members of the local councils, and semi-structured interviews with elected party politicians between November 2022 and March 2023, it shows that political programs lag behind environmental requirements. Residents are very concerned about environmental governance, indicating that sustainable ecology dimensions have not been fully incorporated into local authorities' work. These conclusions underline the need for a more anticipative environmental approach in coastal urban planning.
  Keywords: Political actors; management; environmental constraints; urban areas.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2027.10075393
   
  
• Adaptive Behaviour of Wheat Growers to Climate Change evidence from Iran  
  by Sanaz Barsalari, Mohammad Sadegh Ebrahimi, Mostafa Karbasioun 
  Abstract: Water shortage is a major barrier to agricultural development in Iran, where climate is marked by drought and crisis. Adaptation strategies are essential to mitigate climate change impacts and sustain rural livelihoods. This study investigates wheat producers compatibility with climatic fluctuations, particularly droughts, using a descriptive-survey approach supported by documentary methods and fieldwork. Findings show that farmers main coping measures include weed control, temporary shift to non-agricultural jobs, and cultivation of alternative crops. Key information sources were neighbours and relatives, leading farmers, and expert meetings at work sites. Correlation analysis revealed significant relationships between adaptation and factors such as age, farming experience, household size, access to development services, education, diversification of economic activities, rural infrastructure investment, financing, and insurance. Factor analysis identified six vulnerability causes personal, social, knowledge, economic, production system, and agricultural factors explaining 87.35% of variance. Results highlight the complexity of drought adaptation and the need for integrated rural strategies.
  Keywords: Sustainability; Adaptation; Drought; Iran.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2027.10076540
   
  
• Socio-economic Factors Influencing Local Chicken Consumption: a Study of Household Behaviours in Togo's Poultry Sub-Sector  
  by Aliou Kayira Diallo, Samir Baha-Eddine Maliki, Olfa Monia Bouallegue 
  Abstract: Competition between imported and domestic chickens is a significant barrier to the progress of the poultry sub-sector. This article investigates the underlying factors influencing the consumption of local hens in Togo. It looked at the various factors that influence local chicken consumption. To do this, data were obtained through a detailed questionnaire issued to 311 families spread across Lomes five districts. Using the maximum likelihood estimation method, we used descriptive statistics, correlation tests, and regression analysis. According to the studys findings, households have a stronger preference for preparing imported chicken. This preference is due mainly to the lower cost of imported chicken, its widespread use in menu preparation, and its accessibility to a considerable proportion of consumers with minimal purchasing power. As a result, these families usually prefer imported frozen poultry cuts, and household head income has emerged as the most important element influencing chicken consumption.
  Keywords: Chicken Consumption; Poultry Sub-Sector; Socio-economics factors; Togo.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2027.10076641
   
  
• Greenwashing and its Relationship to Green Purchase Intention: a Systematic Literature Review and Research Agenda  
  by Sergio Andres Suarez-Gutierrez, Luz Alexandra Montoya-Restrepo, Javier A. Sánchez-Torres 
  Abstract: The phenomenon of greenwashing has shown a steady interest over the last decades. However, extensive research is needed on its relationship with green purchase intention, as there is evidence that greenwashing can have negative effects. The aim of this research is to provide an overview of this relationship, identifying the most relevant studies, as well as gaps and future research opportunities. An analysis was employed through a systematic literature review, supported by a bibliometric analysis according to the PRISMA 2020 methodology in Scopus, and analysed using Microsoft Excel and Bibliometrix. The results reveal that greenwashing has a negative impact on consumers' green purchase intention, generating confusion and scepticism, and eroding trust in green brands, which decreases the intention to purchase sustainable products. It is crucial to further explore how contextual factors affect the relationship between greenwashing and purchase intention.
  Keywords: greenwashing; green purchase intention; greenwash; sustainable; corporate social responsibility; green marketing; ecofriendly; environmental scepticism; green marketing.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2027.10077034