International Journal of Sustainable Society (47 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• INVESTMENT UNCERTAINTY DUE TO COVID-19 ON ENERGY-EFFICIENT INVESTING IN INDIA  
  by Peeyush Bangur, Ruchi Bangur 
  Abstract: This study examined the volatility implications of energy-efficient investing in India due to COVID-19. We have been used the symmetric GARCH (p,q) model on the S&P BSE GREENEX index returns to assess the certainty of investment related to energy-efficient practices in India. The result shows increased volatility and a large degree of persistence on the energy-efficient investing in India. Further, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the volatility of the S&P BSE GREENEX index by 130.155%. To the best of the author's knowledge, this is the first article where the volatility of energy-efficient investing in India has been measured.rnrnrnrn
  Keywords: Key Words: Energy-efficient practices; Investment certainty; COVID-19; GARCH (p,q) Model; and India.
  
  
• Understanding the impact of cross-cultural friendships and residency status on multicultural attitudes: A UAE perspective  
  by Nishtha Lamba, Fadhila Mohideen, Tisha Virani, Sachi Kariappa, Vineeta Aroz, Hafseena Bind Ashraf, Zainab Udaipurwala, Clea Dsouza, Somer Rodrigues, Ashley Paulson, Aishwarya Patil 
  Abstract: With 80% of the population comprising expatriates, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) presents itself as a unique place to explore multicultural attitudes. This study examines how cross-cultural friendships and exposure to different cultures impact young adults' sociocultural development and social cynicism levels in the UAE. Two distinct surveys measuring sociocultural development and social cynicism were administered to dual samples consisting of 155 and 166 young adults. Participants provided information about their number of cross-cultural friendships and residency status. It was found that a) both number of cross-cultural friends and residency status did not impact participants' sociocultural development and b) that only residency status, not cross-cultural friendships, had a significant effect on social cynicism. Short-term expatriates showed the least social cynicism levels compared to long-term expatriates and locals. This research study provides a unique perspective on the effects of cross-cultural interactions on both positive and negative aspects of multicultural attitudes. In contrast to previous literature, the findings challenge the emphasis on diversity for development, and show that short-term expatriates feel welcomed and do not feel threatened by the host culture in the UAE. On a global scale, the study contributes to a better comprehension of negative multicultural attitudes and encourages the growth of sustainable cities.
  Keywords: Cross-cultural friendships; Sociocultural development; Social cynicism; Multicultural attitudes; UAE.
  
  
• An alternative to analyse the 'Environmental Bioethics'  
  by Abdénago YATE ARÉVALO, Carlos Díaz Rodríguez, Alfonso Pazos Alvárez 
  Abstract: The article presents an alternative to analyse 'environmental bioethics', which in a syncretic way articulates the etymology, the bioethics of dilemmas and creativity and industriousness, in such a way that it allows an innovative stance in the approach to current environmental challenges. Thus, it is recognised, at first, that the environmental is immersed in the bioethics, but then it is noticed that the environmental contributes, as a positive non-zero sum game, to the concept of 'environmental bioethics', in order to strengthen the principles, the values, aspects and approaches of its object of study, taking into account the Bioethical imperatives proposed by Fritz Jahr and Hans Jonas to relate rationality to human behaviour and their interactions with nature. Hence, environmental bioethics considers that there is a set of ethical aspects and approaches with a bioethical perspective that function as a toolbox that emerge as a function of the challenges and circumstances and not as a battery of principles in the sense of the principlism bioethics.
  Keywords: environmental bioethics; ethics; moral; moral principles; moral values.
  
  
• Toxic air, choked ecosystem: Paradox of economic growth vs ecosystem sustainability  
  by Sunil Barthwal 
  Abstract: This article highlights rising air pollution in India to dangerous levels and companies seizing the opportunity to sell air purifiers as people scramble for pure air and fall sick. While electronic and healthcare industries revel and grow owing to such a catastrophic development, the vicious cycle of need creation, production and economic growth continue to exploit natural resources and burden the planet. The present critical survival and health issues have to do with anthropogenic activities in the past. Environment was possibly not in the reckoning for leading economies of the world in the process of their becoming one and should emerging economies follow suit, it would certainly spell doom faster. Present scenario can be an opportunity for emerging economies to develop economic structure based on clean technologies and sustainable use of natural resources. This article binds multidisciplinary concepts and ideas to address economy vs ecosystem sustainability paradox.
  Keywords: Air pollution; air purifier; economy; creative destruction; health.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2023.10053220
   
  
• Developments in Norways sustainability governance in the pre- and post- 2030 Agenda era  
  by IOANNIS FASOULIS 
  Abstract: Since their introduction, in 2015, United Nations (UNs) 2030 Agenda, and associated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), has now become an integral part of nations longer term policies. From the very beginning, Norway has shown exceptional sensitivity and zeal in establishing the values of sustainable development in its governmental strategic planning. However, the cataclysmic developments in this area call to explore further the long-standing Norwegian positions and future strategies in meeting global sustainability undertakings. The aim of the article is to explore and discuss Norways sustainability governance regime, as has been formulated from 1987 until today. In this context, this paper draws on a systematic review and analysis of concepts, policies and laws stemming from Norways governmental documents framed by the principles of a socio-legal research approach. The findings suggest that Norway maintains a clear regulatory and visionary base sustaining, thus, a sharp focus in enhancing its sustainable development policies.
  Keywords: 2030 agenda; sustainable development; Norway; policy; regulatory framework.
  
  
• Economic Anthropology Insight: Narratives of livelihood exploration from field work experience in Goderich-Sierra Leone  
  by Emerson Abraham Jackson 
  Abstract: This qualitative research championed through participant observation has made it possible for thought-provoking views to be explored in understanding residents reason(s) for adopting identified strategies in diversifying their sustained state of well-being. The field exercise, which was undertaken in Goderich has provided simplified narratives of the communitys historical background, with concerns about livelihood choices and risks to the environmental. The study outcome shows that the pursuit of exploring livelihood choices is detrimental to the environment owing to voracious activities like sand-mining and stone-quarrying people utilise to sustain lives. The study concludes, with some proffered suggestions the importance of building transforming structures through means of effective regulations or policies to minimise destruction to the environment, with implications for climate change. Finally, the study outcome also recommends the embracement of identified / specific strategies to improve well-being - incorporating various attributes aimed at combating vulnerabilities associated with the over-exploitation of livelihood assets in Goderich.
  Keywords: Economic Anthropology; Field Work Narratives; Economic Life; Peri-urban; Goderich-Sierra Leone.
  
  
• Are millennials in Qatar making m-commerce the future of online shopping?  
  by Nasrina Mauji, Emad Abu-Shanab 
  Abstract: The emergence of mobile commerce has revolutionized consumers buying behavior, particularly among millennials known to be the key driver of the on-demand economy. This study explored the online purchasing behavior of millennials in Qatar, specifically the difference between millennials and other age categories. The study tested the influence of perceived immersive seamless experience (PISE) within the context of UTAUT2 to predict the adoption of m-commerce. Results partially supported UTAUT2, where performance expectancy, effort expectancy, price value, facilitating conditions and PISE significantly predicted behavioral intention (BI) (R2 = 0.875). Social influence and hedonic motivation failed to influence BI. BI significantly predicted use behavior. An ANOVA test substantiated that millennials had higher perceptions than Generation X, while Generation Z yielded contradictory results. The study utilized 386 responses from Qatar and used SEM statistical technique to test the research model. Conclusions and future work are reported at the end of this work.
  Keywords: Mobile commerce; millennials; on-demand economy; smartphones; online shopping.
  
  
• ASSESSMENT OF THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY MARKET: A STUDY OF THE BARRIERS AND DRIVERS OF SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES  
  by Julia Carvalho Fernandes De Oliveira, Fagner José Coutinho De Melo, Djalma Silva Guimarães Junior, Eryka Fernanda Miranda Sobral 
  Abstract: This paper aims to analyse the perception of the city of Recife’s local market regarding the main barriers that inhibit the adoption of sustainable practices and the main drivers that influence the decision to use sustainable design and construction practices. The survey research was conducted using two questionnaires: one applied to 66 professionals in the fields of architecture, engineering, and construction, and another applied to 55 residents. The results to professionals showed that the lack of knowledge and awareness on how to design a sustainable project is the most critical barrier identified. In relation to the public, it was noticed that despite the insecurity regarding the concept of sustainable construction, there is a market demand for sustainable projects in Recife
  Keywords: construction industry; sustainability; barriers; drivers; sustainable projects.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2023.10051484
   
  
• Ecotourism on university campuses: Co-creation case study at Universidad de Medell  
  by Carolina Perlaza Lopera, Yuri Lorene Hernández Fernández, Sandra Milena Palacio López, Javier A. Sánchez-Torres 
  Abstract: This article focuses on presenting a proposal for ecotourism services on a green university campus based on the process of design thinking by students. Participatory action research, co-creation and psychosocial intervention methodologies were considered to develop this process. This study established the following two important results: on the one hand, a green campus initial intervention proposal emerged, which included a service description and special features. On the other hand, as an additional result, a series of overall observations and suggestions provided by students around the field and its surrounding facilities emerged. Finally, it is concluded that there is great potential for ecotourism in green campuses as a training and tourist process.
  Keywords: Ecotourism; co-creation; university campus; green campus; sustainability;services.
  
  
• Playing to which audience? Textual analysis of standalone sustainability reports in the South African Mining sector  
  by Elda Du Toit, Leana Esterhuyse 
  Abstract: We explore narrative styles of 50 standalone sustainability reports for the years 2016 to 2019 published by South African mining companies. Our analyses using computer-aided narrative analysis tools reveal that readability is very low, and optimism and commonality are the most prevalent narrative tones. We also investigate whether the intended audience is associated with differences in the readability and narrative tone by comparing reports of companies included (excluded) in the FTSE/JSE Responsible Investment (RI) index. We find that the more sophisticated audience of reports by companies included in the RI index is associated with even lower readability. These reports are also less optimistically phrased than those of companies not included in the RI index. We contribute to the theory by demonstrating that RI investors and ESG rating agencies may temper companies tendencies to manage impressions in sustainability reports. We also contribute by placing the study in South Africa, an emerging economy.
  Keywords: Responsible investments (RI); stakeholders; sustainability; readability; narrative tone; impression management.
  
  
• The Fourth Pillar of Sustainability  
  by Mohsen Jahan 
  Abstract: With the onset of the 21st century, the pressures of population growth (about 100 million people per year), the dangers of climate change, the flood of human migration, the clash of subcultures, the identity crisis, and, most importantly, the COVID-19 pandemic, as a domino effect, is destroying the planet. These anthropogenic events, have positive feedback effects on each other, therefore, eco-cultural crises are constantly intensifying and worsening, in turn, has intensified competition for the planets limited and shared resources, leading to unsustainability in all planetary ecosystems, human societies and scientific disciplines. The emergence of unsustainability and exceeding the caring capacity of the planet, has endangered the survival of mankind and the sustainability of its ancient habitat, for the first time in history. Overcoming this critical situation requires a change in the Sociocultural-ecological paradigm, and a revision of the most common law of sustainability, which is called the Three Pillars (3Ps) (also called Triple Bottom Line, TBL; The Three E Principle, 3Es). In this regard, in the present study, while criticizing the ground-breaking article of Gareth Hardin, the most important objections to it were expressed, also the shortcomings of the 3Ps were described as the basis for achieving sustainability. This paper attempts to explore evidence on whether by relying on the common nature of man, ethics and morality, one of the long-standing human problems, i.e., peaceful coexistence, could be overcome and how fair sharing and exploitation of common resources in todays turbulent world is possible by considering spirituality as a solid and universal foundation while reviewing and critiquing the theories put forth by some pioneering figures of empirical and human sciences. Finally, spirituality is proposed as the fourth pillar and complement to the 3Ps. This study is the first in its kind to suggest a biopsychosociospiritual characteristic of human being to contribute to attain an inclusive sustainability. Spirituality weight consistently in the way we behave and the decisions we take and, hence, it plays a decisive role in conceiving a sustainable shared future. A spiritual man is one who has made peace with himself, with other human beings, and with his environment, and this inner peace brings him the meaning of life. He would never harm himself, others and the environment.
  Keywords: Natural Resource Management; Environmental crisis; Earth heritage; Social solidarity; biopsychosociospiritual.
  
  
• Does Population Concentration of Muslims Determine Their Socio-Economic Trajectories? A Geographical Valuation of West Bengal  
  by Md Safikul Islam, Lubna Siddiqui, Md Nawaj Sarif, Neha Parveen 
  Abstract: Muslims in West Bengal are more underprivileged, deteriorated, deprived, and backward minority community as compared to other minority communities in terms of socio-economic characteristics. Muslim concentration varies over the districts of this state which leads to unequal socio-economic development. The dearth of research on the relationship between Muslim concentration and their socio-economic attributes demands an in-depth study to examine this relationship. Therefore, this manuscript is broadly designed to find out the place of Muslims among all religious communities in terms of the selected socio-economic indicators i.e., sex ratio, literacy, and work participation; to portray the pattern of Muslim concentration in West Bengal; and to examine the relationship between selected socio-economic indicators and Muslim concentration in West Bengal. The study is entirely based on secondary sources of data collected from the census of India, and SNAP Report concerning religion-wise data. To address these objectives, three important statistical techniques such as population growth rate, location quotient, and coefficient of correlation have been applied. The results reveal positive relationships between Muslim concentrations and their work participation, and sex ratio while it is a negative relationship with literacy reportedly the strongest correlation among these. Moreover, a high concentration of Muslims was found in the central part of the state like Murshidabad, Malda, and Uttar Dinajpur, whereas these districts were also noticed among the occupants of the lowest literacy rate. Despite the uneven literacy, more than 30 per cent of Muslims have engrossed the labour force in every district. Education can rejuvenate a disadvantaged minority community like Muslims resulting in an egalitarian society and overall development, whereas the minority status of a religious group is not a problem nor a disease when socio-economic benefits are distributed equitably among all religious communities. This paper contains important ingredients, such as the impact of Muslim concentration on their socio-economic status and the factors influencing their continued backwardness, which are very relevant and useful for Indians as well as global stakeholders, particularly social scientists and policy-makers, to work toward a sustainable society.
  Keywords: Muslims; Backward Community; Location Quotient; Community Development; Egalitarian Society; Sustainable Development.
  
  
• Exploring the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the social and economic needs of poor communities via the CBR Framework  
  by Roshima Said, Corina Joseph, Azlan Amran, Ida Normaya Mohd Nasir 
  Abstract: The current situation with the COVID 19 pandemic has put poor communities all over the world in a difficult position, especially in terms of socio-economic balance and livelihood consequences. The paper has focused on the concept of Community-based Responsibility (CBR) and used the AHP Analysis approach to assess a priority of preference criteria for social and economic needs amongst the poor community. The findings indicated that education was the top priority as compared to other social needs elements, meanwhile, the highest priority ranking for economic needs was access to employment opportunities. The findings of the study will serve as a guide for the government and other responsible parties to prioritise their strategies in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and would also help the government in allocating resources more efficiently whilst educating the poor to become self-sustained in the future, especially in an unexpected situation such as COVID-19.
  Keywords: Poverty; Social needs; Economic needs; Covid-19; Community-based Responsibility.
  
  
• Language is sacred, language is life Australian Northern Territory Language Education Policy and Indigenous Community Sustainability  
  by Janine Oldfield 
  Abstract: Language plays a decisive role in the social, environmental, and economic development of remote Indigenous communities in Australia. It encapsulates both relationships of people and connections to the land, which comprises the economic base of Indigenous societies. However, since colonisation, there has been considerable denudation of traditional Indigenous languages throughout Australia so that only about two percent remain spoken by children (Koch and Nordlinger, 2014). A revival of Indigenous languages occurred in Northern Australia from the 1970s to the late 1990s with Indigenous bilingual biliteracy education. This resurgence resulted in high social and economic benefits to entire communities. However, more recent changes in language policy with the rise of neoliberal governance have resulted in its discontinuation and a dramatic increase in social and economic dysfunction in remote Indigenous communities. This paper presents an analysis case study of language education in the Northern Territory related to sustainability, policy orientations, and neoliberalism.
  Keywords: education for sustainable development; Australian language education policy; Indigenous education.
  
  
• Assessing the impact of an intergenerational program for a sustainable development project in Spain  
  by Mireia Tintoré, Olga Roger-Loppacher, Pilar Buil 
  Abstract: This qualitative study with an action research approach describes the design, implementation, and assessment of an intergenerational program that aims to promote social inclusion and sustainable behaviours in a vulnerable Spanish population. A group of 20 seniors, 20 children, a monitor and eight assistants and educators participated in the program intended to improve sustainability, social exclusion, the employability of people with disabilities, and relationships between generations. We assessed the program through a pre-post-test and an open-ended questionnaire, and data were analysed using quantitative and qualitative techniques. Results revealed improvements in managing social and environmental problems: the empowerment of vulnerable children and adults, and the development of sustainability competencies in the participants. We examine the practical implications of this program as the starting point for similar projects, highlighting the effectiveness of combining environmental and social aspects for the inclusion of vulnerable people.
  Keywords: sustainable society; intergenerational programs; children at risk of exclusion; vulnerable older adults; Sustainable Development Goals; aluminium packaging recycling; Spain; social pedagogy; social program; sustainable cities; inclusion.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2023.10053404
   
  
• Socio-Economic aspects of camel farming: A case study from Oman  
  by Habiba Al-Mughairi, Bader Al-Hajri, Amur Al-Rashdi, Mubarak Al-Masalmi, Azzah Al-Maskari 
  Abstract: The study examines the social and economic factors that affect camel breeding and production, such as financial, medical, fodder and food supplements, breeders gender and age, income, employment status, organizational support and funding. Primary data are obtained using a bilingual questionnaire from 200 camel holders from the North Sharqiyah region in Oman. The study found that camel breeders main source of income is earned from the sale of camels and the camel racing competitions. The sector is not organized, and the return is risky and insecure. A focused approach to camel farming is not observed, due to specific challenges that the camel breeders face, such as the price of fodder and food supplements in the market and the difficulties in securing adequate water for camel farms. The study recommends strategies to develop and guarantee sustainable support for the camel farmers, as it contributes to the countrys social and economic development.
  Keywords: Social welfare; Camel breeding; Livestock; Food security,.
  
  
• Womens agency for empowering tribal communities? An empirical analysis of microfinance-based developmental processes  
  by SAZZAD PARWEZ 
  Abstract: This study is primarily based on the empirical field evidence and secondary data from relevant databases to decipher microfinance-led empowerment of tribal women and impact on local communities. Tribal women are marginalised entity even in tribal community and tend to face the brunt of societal discrimination in the house and outside which leads to disempowerment. Over the years microfinance interventions have also ignored their plight barring few aberrations. This makes the study relevant and important from policy perspective. Evidence suggests that even though microfinance as a developmental model is not a runaway success but did make some positive impact on the tribal community, especially in the lives of tribal women. The findings reveal a positive linkage between microfinance initiatives and empowerment. It is outcome of multiple cycles of value creation, allowing tribal women to fight against abject poverty. The study shows that microfinance interventions empower tribal women economically, socially, psychologically, and politically. Nevertheless, the broad impact can only be realised if the government and non-government organisations work in convergence for women led local development.
  Keywords: Microfinance; Women; Tribal; SHGs; Microfinance institutions; Empowerment; India.
  
  
• Childrens Play Environment in Semarang City, Indonesia  
  by Adhista Putri Pressilia, Nany Yuliastuti 
  Abstract: The limited activity and mobility of children in accessing play spaces are some of the problems that occur during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through childrens mobility and play activities, childrens play environment could be assessed, as in the theory of the Bullerby model. The purpose of this study is to identify the characteristic of childrens play environment in Semarang City according to Bullerby Model during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study is based on the perceptions and preferences of children who live in Semarang City. A quantitative approach is used to analyze the research data by scoring the questionnaire. The results show that Semarang City has a Prison-like and Glasshouse-like play environment. This study also found that even in the outskirt of the city with low building density, children could have a Prison-like environment due to fewer activities and games realized, even though there are plenty of play spaces available in their environment.
  Keywords: bullerby model; child-friendly play space; children’s activities; children’s mobility; children’s perspectives.
  
  
• The Self-Reliance Scale: Development and Validation  
  by Meera Padhy, Meena Hariharan, Suma Lavanya Mutnury, Oindrila Mukherjee, Rizwana NT 
  Abstract: The objectives of this study are to - develop a self-report scale to measure self-reliance, evaluate its main structure, and study psychometric properties in the developed scale. The complete process of developing and validating the scale consociates three phases. Phase IWriting of items and content validation, Phase IIFactor Analysis, Phase III Testing Reliability and Validity. The study included 2210 participants. An Exploratory Factor Analysis was run using IBM SPSS 23. An Exploratory Factor Analysis with oblique rotation of the intercorrelations of the 30 items resulted in a 4-factor solution: Self-efficacy, External dependence, Autonomy and Self-Confidence Deficit. Cronbachs alpha index of internal reliability was used to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Self-Reliance Scale. As the scale measures different aspects of the important variable of self-reliance, the applicability of the instrument will be vast and remarkable.
  Keywords: Self-reliance scale; self-regulation; scale development; EFA; validation.
  
  
• The socio-economic and environmental impacts on gravel mining in rivers: A case study in the Ecuadorian Amazon Region.  
  by Liliana Sarduy-Pereira, Maria De Decker, Amaury Pérez-Martínez, Gerardo M. Casañola-Martin, Karel Diéguez Santana 
  Abstract: This article examines the socio-economic and environmental impacts of gravel mining in the community of San Pedro, Ecuador. Data collection from primary sources was carried out through a case study of the community by means of household-level surveys in 2015. These surveys and the communitys perceptions about mining activities were considered. It explores community solutions according to the establishment of environmental measures in order to avoid the risks of flooding and direct damage to the environment. Most of the gravel mining is carried out in the river with environmental impacts such as disruption of river courses, landscape involvement and the depletion of biodiversity resources. Population show approval if appropriate measures of mining practices are taken with following environmental restoration. Community involvement of proper exploitation planning of gravel minerals, the creation of other income-generating activities and environmental restoration criteria are presented and discussed.
  Keywords: Socio-Environmental impact; River Tena; gravel extraction. Rural community.
  
  
• Surviving the cities: Enhancing needs of asset adaptation strategies of urban poor in Accra and Tamale in Ghana  
  by Fatima Eshun, Fatima Denton 
  Abstract: It has been estimated that cities harbour most of the urban poor who usually reside in slum areas and experience deplorable environmental conditions. To survive the city, it is crucial to enhance the asset adaptation strategies of the urban poor. However, studies on assets enhancement focus on a few aspects of assets whilst a detailed approach to assets enhancement such as human, physical, social, financial, and natural remain under research. To address this knowledge gap, this study employs both quantitative and qualitative approaches to investigate the phenomenon. The results indicate that the assets of the urban poor cannot stand their strategic needs and disempowers them. Enhancing the human assets of the urban poor can help in acquiring other forms of assets. The study recommends that private and public institutions should intensify efforts to enhance the asset adaptation strategies of the urban poor to become resilient.
  Keywords: Sustainable cities; vulnerabilities; resilient; climate change; COVID-19; livelihoods.
  
  
• Sustainable Food Consumption Behavior: What really matters!  
  by Priyanka Garg, Ashish Kumar, Raj Kumar Mittal 
  Abstract: The present study investigates households sustainable food consumption behavior using the extended Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) by incorporating three additional variables (environmental knowledge, personal norms, and product attributes) in the original TPB model. Using a self-administered questionnaire, data were collected from a sample of 440 Indian households, and hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling (SEM). The results reveal a positive impact of additional factors on behavioral intention, signifying that the TPB can be extended and utilized to determine households' sustainable food consumption behavior (SFCB). Product attributes emerge as the strongest predictor of sustainable food consumption behavior followed by perceived behavioral control whereas social norms' impact was found to be the weakest. The findings of the study could provide meaningful insights to producers, marketers, government agencies, and policy-makers.
  Keywords: Attitude; Behavioral intention; Consumption; Environmental knowledge; Norms; Perceived behavioral control; product attributes; Sustainable food consumption behavior; Theory of Planned Behavior; Structural Equation Modeling.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2024.10056174
   
  
• Middle class political activism in Nigeria  
  by Segun Oshewolo, Rotimi Ajayi, Kareem Jimba 
  Abstract: Studies on the Nigerian middle class are barely adequate. The central objective of this study is to explain the distinct defining elements of the Nigerian middle class, particularly as they relate to political activism and interface with government. To achieve this central objective, three research questions are formulated. How has the Nigerian middle class evolved particularly in relation to social protest? What are the middle class' instruments of social engagement and how have they been deployed in contemporary Nigeria? How effective are these instruments in terms of eliciting the anticipated or appropriate response from government? Following the discussions around these questions, a number of core issues defining middle class political activism in Nigeria have emerged. First, although middle class groups in Nigeria have a high mobilizing capacity as demonstrated by their constant interface with government, the deliverables have been little. Second, discordant opinions sometimes frustrate internal cohesion. Third, the mobilizing platforms and instruments have been transformed as a result of the opportunities offered by the new digital technologies. These key findings will enable future studies to formulate more specific research questions and hypotheses about the political activism of the Nigerian middle class.
  Keywords: Nigeria; Middle Class; Engagement; Governance.
  
  
• Determinants of adoption of sustainable land management practices among smallholder farmers in the Uplands of Vietnam: an empirical study in Central Vietnam  
  by Van Thanh Nguyen, Gia Hung Hoang, Van Nam Le, Ngoc Phuoc Duong, Thi Hong Phuong Le, Le Phi Khanh Ho, Thu Giang Mai 
  Abstract: Sustainable Land Management (SLM) is considered as one of the effective approaches to address the problems of resource degradation and food security in the uplands of Vietnam. Despite this, there is meager information regarding smallholder farmers decision towards the implementation of SLM practices. Therefore, this study aims at investigating determinants of farmers adoption of SLM practices in the case of Central Vietnam. The data was collected from 300 randomly selected farming households using a survey questionnaire and was analyzed using Duration analysis. The empirical results indicate that there is a set of factors affecting the rate of SLM practices adoption. Knowledge of SLM, participating in extension training courses, specific attributes of technologies, and the physical distance from home to fields have positive effects on the adoption speed of intercropping, crop rotation and mulching practices. Meanwhile, small farm size, length of farming experience, and low education of household heads are factors that delays the adoption speed of these practices. The findings suggest that improving farmers' knowledge of SLM practices and investing agricultural road infrastructure for agricultural production would enhance the adoption speed of SLM practices in the Vietnamese uplands. The study provides an important understanding regarding the determinants of SLM practices by smallholder farmers, and stresses aspects that should be considered when enacting development policies to enhance smallholder farmers SLM practices adoption in the uplands of developing countries.
  Keywords: adoption; determinants; duration analysis; practices; uplands; smallholder farmers; SLM; sustainable land management; and Vietnam.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2024.10055813
   
  
• Climate Variability and Crime Rates in the Southeastern US  
  by Suzan Odaba??, Valentina Hartarska 
  Abstract: Recent data show that about 40 percent of all crimes in the US occur in the Southeast. A growing body of literature indicates that the Southeastern US region is the most affected by climate change. This study investigates to what extent variations in temperature relate to crime rates in the southeastern states within a typical empirical crime model framework, where crime rates are function of standard controls. We use county-level panel data for the period from 2010 to 2014 for all southeastern states. This analysis utilizes the two-stage least squares (2SLS) regression analysis to address the possible endogeneity of police presence and alcohol consumption in the crime rate supply equation. The results show that higher average maximum and minimum daily temperature is associated with higher robbery, property, and grand larceny. Additionally, alcohol consumption seems to accelerate crime rates and is associated with increase in violence, robbery, assault, grand larceny, and motor vehicle theft.
  Keywords: crime; climate variability; panel data models.
  
  
• Understanding the Future of the Environmentally-friendly Batik Industry in Malaysia  
  by Mohamad Saifudin Mohamad Saleh, Nia Izzati Azrin, Naziru Alhaji Tukur, Shaidatul Akma Adi Kasuma 
  Abstract: Malaysia, aside from Indonesia, is one of the largest traditional batik producers that contribute to the growth and development of the Malaysian economy. Unfortunately, batik production using synthetic dye in Malaysia has also contributed to river pollution and land degradation. Recently, the concept of environmental-friendly has been introduced for batik entrepreneurs, where they are encouraged to produce batik that use natural dye to minimise threats to environmental safety. Although concerning this issue, there is limited literature available on this subject in the context of Malaysia. Therefore, this study aims to narrow the gap in this field by addressing the following objectives: (1) To examine the knowledge of batik entrepreneurs towards the production of environmentally-friendly batik products; (2) To examine the acceptance of batik entrepreneurs towards the production of environmentally-friendly batik products, and (3) To investigate the challenges faced by batik entrepreneurs in Malaysia in producing environmentally-friendly batik. To achieve these, a series of interviews were conducted with six batik entrepreneurs in the Northern region of Malaysia to seek their views and opinions on the environmental-friendly business in producing batik and associated practices. The results indicate a good level of knowledge among the entrepreneurs on environmentally-friendly batik products and processes. However, their acceptance level is rather low, as they face many challenges in maintaining green initiatives, primarily the high cost of fabrication. The results of this study are anticipated to assist batik entrepreneurs and policymakers, especially in Malaysia and Indonesia, to understand the future of eco-friendly batik industry.
  Keywords: Malaysia; Asia; sustainable batik; sustainability; environmental-friendly; entrepreneurs; qualitative; interview; environment; knowledge; acceptance; challenges; green business.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2024.10053878
   
  
• School stakeholders views on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in schools  
  by Chinmaya Prakash, Shubha Chandra 
  Abstract: In India, the elementary education system is decentralized to ensure community participation and an efficient learning environment. Decentralization of education system emphasizes the importance of school stakeholders such as Teachers, Head teachers (HM) and School Management Committee (SC). Stakeholders awareness and involvement are central to creating an effective learning environment. Government schools are supported by CSR programs which ideally should involve school stakeholders. Since very little is known about how CSR programmes are perceived by such school stakeholders, an exploratory study was carried out. The sample consisted of 200 teachers, 100 HMs and 100 SC from 50 rural and 50 urban primary schools of Bangalore. 400 respondents were interviewed using a semi structured information schedule that was developed to elicit their perspective on how CSR is contributing to the development of their schools. Results show that, all the three groups had a positive view of CSR as beneficial to the school. However, there was no clear understanding of the philosophy or role of CSR as many did not differentiate between CSR and support received from other sources. Expectations from companies for their school development differed in these groups. HMs and SCs gave priority to infrastructure development of the school. Rural teachers wanted companies to help the schools with Teaching and Learning material. Urban teachers gave first preference to supply of furniture and equipment to school. Respondents wished for a greater role and involvement in CSR activities in their schools. CSR programmes that are need-based and involve school stakeholders will make CSR work more effective.
  Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility; CSR and school development; School stakeholders; School leadership; School improvement.
  
  
• Role of customer retention equity in consumption enhancement of VoD services: A PLS-SEM approach  
  by Rahul Sharma, Amit Kakkar 
  Abstract: Technological advancements in the telecommunication industry have brought drastic changes in the viewers viewing habits. With the exponential growth in data consumption, the VoD industry has also grown as the viewers are using data to watch the content. With the growth in the industry, many companies have entered the fray, and hence, the competition between them is also brewing. The present study is conceptualized to study the effect of retention equity on consumption enhancement of VoD services. The antecedents of retention equity and their effect on retention equity are also studied. The data is collected from 210 respondents and PLS-SEM is used to analyze the data. The effect of retention equity on consumption enhancement of VoD services is established. The present research work will help the companies to devise strategies that will lead to consumption enhancement of VoD services.
  Keywords: Consumption enhancement; retention equity; knowledge building; engagement; PLS-SEM.
  
  
• Emerging mobile technologies: Scope and relevance for building digital communication capabilities of XYZ generations  
  by Jabbar Al Muzzamil Fareen 
  Abstract: Digital literacy skills and the capability to use emerging communication technologies at work are the most required skills of the twenty first century. The XYZ generations eagerly anticipate for the advent of 5G and 6G mobile technologies and to set right for the new visible change and transformation that it will lead to. As the millennials and centennials have been raised using the Internet, smartphones, and social media, they have become the digital natives of this era. The expectation of these digital natives is to become tech-savvy and to use advanced digital technologies in regular, domestic, personal, social, and professional life. They expect to possess sufficient twenty first century digital literacy skills to own, appreciate and serve as the firsthand skilled and smart users of digital communication technologies. In this context, this paper attempts to analyze the needs of next generation communication technologies for multigenerational workforce to build up their digital communication capabilities at academics, work, and social media.
  Keywords: digital natives; mobile technologies; next generation communication technologies; Internet of Things (IoT); XYZ generations; 5G and 6G networking.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2024.10053649
   
  
• How social capacity maintains social distancing in the efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19: Evidence from Indonesia  
  by Iwan Nugroho, Rita Hanafie, Purnawan Dwikora Negara, Wiwin Purnomowati, Rudy Joegijantoro 
  Abstract: This study aims to investigate social distancing compliance and its relationship to social capacity and socioeconomic factors in the efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. Google Forms online survey was conducted on 449 respondents to explore socio-economic variables and their responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis method used a path model to find the relationship between variables and the control of COVID-19. The results show that social distancing compliance is relatively low. Only 30.1% of the respondents stayed at home. The study found that social capacity is displayed within the influence of institutions on social aspects, social distancing, and the control of COVID-19. The social distancing variable also significantly mediates the relationship between the institution variable and COVID-19 control. The moderating effects of educational and institutional variables also show that they significantly influence social distancing.
  Keywords: epidemiology; COVID-19; health guidance; social distancing; social capital; social trust.
  
  
• ANALYZING A REGRESSION MODEL FOR FORCASTING OF WIND POWER GENERATION  
  by Siddharth Joshi, Ravirajsinh S. Vaghela 
  Abstract: The power consumption pattern is changed drastically, and renewable energy sources such as wind and solar photovoltaic are remarkable in the power generation sector. The power generated from renewable sources is clean and non-pollutant, but these sources depend upon climate changes. The insolation of the Sun is not uniform at each location, and hence wind pattern is not similar throughout the Earth. Due to the variable nature of the wind, the power output and energy output from the wind energy conversion system (WECS) is variable because of the stochastic nature of wind. The maximum power point trackers are installed and interfaced with wind turbine generator assembly and load, enhancing the systems effectiveness. The simulation analysis for standalone WECS with the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm is performed, and the power generated from WECS is forecasted. The short-term forecasting is performed from the data of WECS used for standalone application. The Simple Regression (SR) method is adopted considering the time series model for wind power at permutations in wind speed. The data used for the time series forecasting has been extracted from the simulation model of standalone 3kW WECS.
  Keywords: Analysis; Prediction; Regression; Wind Power Generation.
  
  
• Determinants of Intention to Use Reusable Straws Among Adult Malaysians  
  by Hua-Ying Wong, Yen-Nee Goh, Shaian Kiumarsi 
  Abstract: With the Malaysian governments decision to ban single used straws coming into effect by 1st January 2020 among the traders and business food outlet, it is an important exercise to create awareness among consumers on the existence of reusable straws. Our knowledge of consumer behavioral intention to use reusable straws is very limited. This paper sheds new light on consumer knowledge by investigating the influence of attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control, convenience, environmental concern, desire, moral norm, and ethical belief on behavioral intention to use reusable straws among Malaysian adults. Partial Least Square (PLS) regression was used to test the hypothesis. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 298 consumers in Malaysia. This study broadens current knowledge of consumer behavioral intention by applying an extended Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) model. The study finds that attitude, convenience, desire, and ethical belief have a direct positive effect on usage intention. The questionnaire has proven that the theory of planned behaviour is a significant predictor of the behavioural intention. Suggestions and further discussion to further motivate the usage of reusable straws are addressed accordingly.
  Keywords: Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB); behavioural intention; single-used straw; reusable straw.
  
  
• RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN IMAGINARY SPACE AND RITUAL ACTIVITIES IN THE TRADITIONAL VILLAGE OF TENGANAN PEGRINGSINGAN, BALI, INDONESIA  
  by A. Tutut Subadyo, Nurul Aini, Junianto , Razqyan Mas Bimatyugra Jati 
  Abstract: The spatial pattern of traditional villages in Indonesia has now been affected by the flow of globalization. However, traditional villages in Bali can maintain their identity. This research focused on finding a relation between creating an imaginary space with religious ritual activities in the traditional Balinese village of Aga Tenganan Pegringsingan. The data collected includes the sacred function of space, the origin, and spatial systems. The method used exploratory description with an ethnographic design and Content Analysis. This study confirms that the mass-space pattern is built due to a close relationship with the traditional ritual activities of the community and their belief in myths, legends, and folklore. This pattern can be seen from the routes of movement of traditional-religious ceremonial activities, open spaces that become special religious places, road corridors (Awangan), sacred buildings (Temple). Then there is a traditional building (Hall) with a circular motion. It has a close relationship between time, space, and activity actors who play a role in interpreting space into place
  Keywords: Bali Island; Traditional Villages; Traditional Rituals; Imaginary Space.
  
  
• Evaluating the Quality of Life: a case study in Barranquilla, Colombia  
  by Erick Calvo, Mario Ferrer, Ricardo Santa 
  Abstract: Quality of life is a fundamental measure that is commonly evaluated worldwide. This is the case of Barranquilla, Colombia, a developing economy where the Quality of life has become a very important issue in the last ten years. This research attempts to develop a measurement of the Quality of Life (QOL) perceived by the citizens of Barranquilla, one of the largest cities in Colombia. Even though this city looks like a promising beautiful and modern place to settle, some government malpractices and a lack of law enforcement challenge its sustainability and livability. The importance of this work is twofold. First, to our knowledge, it is the first study that evaluates factors contributing to measuring QOL at the city level. Second, it contributes to the literature by developing a reliable multivariate model that tests the explanatory power of three key impactful QOL factors in city-based communities such as of Barranquilla. Through rigorous statistical analysis, researchers found that factors such as political environment, security, and crime significantly affect the explanatory power of Quality of life.
  Keywords: Quality of life; security; crime; political environment; culture; Colombia.
  
  
• A proposed customer-based brand equity model for the halal food  
  by Nurul Huda Md Saad, Amiruddin Ahamat, Anidah Robani 
  Abstract: Foods transported over vast distances are more likely to be altered, polluted, or tampered with. As a result of these difficulties, Muslim customers are putting greater effort into ensuring that the brand they buy is monitored throughout the supply chain. As a result, food firms must adhere to Shariah compliant practices in tandem with their brand. The purpose of this study is to present a conceptual model of halal food brand equity as a trusted value for customers. The research focuses on how to build a halal food brand using established brand equity components, as well as how to mediate the halal food supply chains integrity architecture. Halal brand awareness, halal perceived quality, halal brand association, and halal brand loyalty are among the dimensions identified. According to research of Muslim consumers in the halal food industry, the positive impact of the halal food supply chain integrity in choosing halal food brands is a critical factor in ensuring that food is produced ethically. Suggestions have been made for studies on a halal food consumer-based brand equity approach, which is unique to the halal food industry. The strategy emphasises on the connection between the halalan toyyiban concept and overall brand equity goals, as well as specific food supply chain management goals.
  Keywords: halal food; brand equity; supply chain integrity; halal brand awareness; halal perceived quality.
  
  
• Land use/land cover dynamics and its future scenarios in Luando Reserve, Angola  
  by Edwin Imfumu, Albert Aweto 
  Abstract: Anthropogenic activities modify biophysical environment and affect ecological balance and the human population. The paper analyzed the dynamic patterns and trend of land use/ cover (LULC) changes in Luando Reserve (LR) for 45 years and predicted its future scenarios for the next 20 years. Remotely sensed data, particularly Landsat imageries for 1975, 1990, 2005 and 2020 were processed, classified and analyzed using GIS. Markov-CA model was used to predict future scenarios of LULC dynamic for 2040. Major LULC classes identified included waterbody, wetland, forest, grassland, farmland and settlement. Findings indicated that LR underwent an increase in farmland, settlement, waterbody and wetland areas, and a significant decrease in forest area. The projection for 2040 indicated that the actual LULCC trend will continue in the next 20 years, with a worrying decrease of 7.1% in the forest area. Settlement and agricultural expansion are the major threats to biodiversity expansion in LR.
  Keywords: Angola; change detection; land use/land cover change; Luando Reserve.
  
  
• Circular economy model and sustainable development nexus in Bangladesh  
  by Zobayer Ahmed, Sakib Mahmud, Hakan Acet 
  Abstract: The practice of Circular Economy is rare and limited to recycling in the economic sectors of Bangladesh. The present study aims to understand how currently these practices are related to sustainable development goals (SDGs). To meet the research objective, both primary and secondary information has been used. The study reveals that there has been an increase in the trend of research regarding CE and sustainable development in Bangladesh from the year 2019. Furthermore, the practices of selected sectors were helping to achieve SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure), SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities), SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production), SDG 13 (climate action), and SDG 15 (life on land) to a certain extent. Nevertheless, widespread challenges exist, including lack of capability, research, administrative efficiency, efficient policies, and many more; in implementing CE practices to help achieve SDGs in Bangladesh.
  Keywords: circular economy; sustainable development; wastage; environment; Sustainable Development Goals; SDGs; Bangladesh; recycling.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2025.10053223
   
  
• A SUSTAINABLE TERRITORIAL CHALLENGE: THE IRREVERSIBLE IMPRESSIONS ON WASTE AND RESIDUE MANAGEMENT FROM FUNCTIONAL COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS  
  by Marcia Regina Rodrigues Da Silva Zago, Alexandre Dullius, Maclovia Correa Da Silva, Elisangela Christiane De Pinheiro Leite Munaretto, Andressa Rando Favorito 
  Abstract: The goal of this article is to present a special thought on the strategy of capacitation workshops, as the means for self-awareness and decision making on waste, having a different perspective towards the subject. That way, the research that generated the present document, was established from the research- in-action, generating knowledge and new experiences by ways of physically meeting the waste collectors from the city of Matinhos - Paran
  Keywords: recycled waste; sustainable territories; community workshops; waste and residue management; Matinhos/PR Brazil; recyclable waste in Brazil.
  
  
• Sustainability Practices in IUBAT: A Case Study  
  by Ferdous Ahmed, Selina Nargis, Mohammed Ataur Rahman, Muhammad Rehan Dastagir 
  Abstract: Sustainable education and preparing young graduates with an action-oriented education program is the major requirement for any country since Bangladesh is thriving for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by implementing the sustainability practices into the educational institutions 2030. Out of 103 private universities and 53 public universities in Bangladesh only IUBAT-International University of Business Agriculture and Technology introduced the sustainability course for every bachelor programs students as a basic subject. Therefore, the Sustainability course is designed to develop the immediate countrys demand producing adequate skilled graduates with enough sustainability knowledge. Till now more than 14,000 undergrad students of the different disciplines have been taught the sustainability course where they engaged and practiced for any environmental sustainability learning and practices in their daily life. IUBAT urges its graduates to absorb this sustainability learning and practices as their lifelong learning so they will be able to contribute to building a sustainable society and country in the near future. As a method this study applied to an institutional case study of IUBAT University a good number of students have been taught about environmental sustainability knowledge and practices. The aim of this case study is to know how IUBAT students are participating and practicing sustainability issues to support the country's dream of achieving Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. As a result, we found that this sustainability course intensifies changing traditional anthropogenic behaviors of the students into sustainability through building positive knowledge, attitude, skill and ethics for making a sustainable society.
  Keywords: Education for Sustainable Education (ESD); Sustainability Studies; Sustainable Development Goals; IUBAT; Bangladesh.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2025.10054171
   
  
• Creative Leadership and Sustainability: The Mediating Effect of Organizational Culture  
  by Najm Najm, Reem Y. Hamed 
  Abstract: Creative leadership plays an indispensable role in motivating and inspiring workers in order to do what is new for excellence and necessary for the survival and growth of these companies. This study aimed to examine the impact of creative leadership viewed in terms of visionary leadership, originality, creative behavior and creative organizational context, on the three main pillars of sustainability (economic, social, and environmental) in Jordanian hospitals. This study also sought to determine the mediating effect of organizational culture on the relationship between creative leadership and sustainability n these hospitals.
  Keywords: Creative leadership; visionary leadership; originality; creative behavior and creative organizational context; sustainability; organizational culture.
  
  
• Engaging ordinary people in sustainability transition: Introducing elasticity and plasticity model for social change
  by Halima Abu Haneya, Abu Hanieh 
  Abstract: Joining between engineering and social sciences approaches, this paper introduces a model for social change, based on concepts of elasticity and plasticity of sustainability behaviour to engage the public in sustainability transition and achieve a better quality of life. The paper discusses how successful transition to renewable energy (RE) system can impact individual’s quality of life and social development, and how to encourage ordinary people to engage in energy transition through daily sustainability behaviour. The paper also discusses the social strategies that lead community to sustainability, the RE indicators and the impact of RE on social behaviour. Eventually, some actions are suggested as solutions if applied can drive the society to the appropriate sustainability level. The focus area is Palestine, but the model can apply elsewhere. The data used were both primary and secondary data.
  Keywords: renewable energy; RE; elasticity; plasticity; sustainability behaviour; social change; sustainability societal transition; sustainable social change.
  
  
• Socioformative sustainability as an alternative conceptualization to think about the devastation of socioecological systems  
  by Josémanuel Luna-Nemecio, Sergio Tobon 
  Abstract: The purpose of this study is to present the conceptual cartography of the concept of sustainable development to show its limits and propose the socio-formative sustainability as a category that transcends it. This study addresses the notion, categorization, characterization, differentiation, division, linkage, methodology, and exemplification that have prevailed so far in research under the concept of "sustainable development". For each of these axes, a conceptual proposal is offered that allows us to think about sustainability based on the concept of "socio-formative sustainability". This research applied the methodology of conceptual mapping based on the review of articles and documents from scientific databases, such as Scopus and Web of Science. The research limits and the political implications of sustainable development its analyzed in this study. The main results reveal the limitations and deficiencies that afflict the research that has used the concept of sustainable development in an attempt to establish a balance between the economy, ecology, and the human being. Likewise, the conceptual limits of continuing to carry out research trapped in the Sustainable Development Goals and the neo-Malthusian perspectives of the 2030 Agenda are shown. This study allowed presenting the main axes to address socio-formative sustainability as a way of thinking about the necessary ecological reform of the way of capitalist production.
  Keywords: complex thought; environmental care; sustainability; sustainable development; sustainable social development.
  
  
• Economic valuation of ecosystem services of cultural order in the Las Delicias micro-basin in Bogot  
  by Jeniffer Gracia, Diego Rojas, David Gracia 
  Abstract: The main objective of this study was to carry out an assessment of the cultural ecosystem services of the Las Delicias brook, located in Chapinero, in Bogot
  Keywords: ecosystem services; economic valuation; sustainable development.
  
  
• An Analytical Study of Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) and Kiratikta (Swertia chirayita): An Economic Substitution for Metro Cities in Global Pandemic with Healthcare 4.0  
  by Bhavna Singh, Rohit Rastogi, Lalit Raj Singh, Ankur Singhal, Richa Singh 
  Abstract: Ayurveda has always been a treasure of knowledge. During Covid pandemic when humans were forced to suffer and no cure seemed to exist to end suffering, the Ayurvedic medicine system once again proved its viability and brought our sufferings to the end. Many In this manuscript the core idea is to substantiate that the Andrographis paniculata, another indeginous herb, can be a well founded substitute for Swertia chirayita. In this work, authors have made a comparative study between both drugs. For this, a systematic review of literature and a pharmacogonostical study was done. On investigation, both drugs are almost similar in qualitative phytochemical analysis, and qualities as par Ayurvedic pharmacology. It was also observed that most of the therapeutic actions of both drugs are similar. Graphical representation of the different parameters gives more insight to the readers. Use of pictures has also been done to heighten the interest of readers.
  Keywords: Swertia chirayita; Kiratikta; Andrographis paniculata; Kalmegh; Ayurveda.
  
  
• Did Micro-Finance Pass the Covid Litmus Test? An Empirical Analysis from Women Borrowers’ Perspective based in Rural Himalayas
  by Insha Wani, Megha Agarwal 
  Abstract: The study attempts to use COVID period as an opportunity to analyse how efficiently micro-finance has been able to deal with the unprecedented crisis. The objective of this study is to find the impact of two COVID-19 response measures; credit accessibility and moratorium on repayments, taken by the industry, on welfare status of its women beneficiaries. To test the validity of claims made by micro-finance, we carried an empirical study of 1,210 micro-finance women borrowers from nine districts of Jammu and Kashmir operating under DAY-NRLM. We used ANOVA, independent t-test and Welch test to compare the welfare status of these borrowers during the core pandemic period, using financial accessibility, Domestic violence and economic stability as three dimensions of women welfare or empowerment. The findings are suggestive of a mixed performance by micro-finance.
  Keywords: micro-finance; COVID-19; women welfare; economic stability; domestic violence; financial accessibility.
  
  
• Social responsibility in Pandemic and its Financial Impacts: Insights from Covid-19 Literature
  by Mohit Saini, Shallu Batra, Ishu Jindal, Kapil Gora, Mahender Yadav 
  Abstract: Business corporations have emerged as good Samaritans by pulling society from the dusk of the pandemic. A major strand of researchers examined the impact of such socially responsible activities on a corporate firm's performance (CFP) and risk. The pandemic has raised the CSR types and levels in society; hence there is a need for a study that presents the state of the scholarly work on CSR-CFP. Therefore, this study adopted the structured review methodology and keywords analysis to explore the publications. After a thorough review of articles, we found that initially, companies have undertaken the majority of the CSR activities for internal stakeholders such as employees, and after that, for the community. Overall, most of the studies have depicted a positive impact of CSR on firm performance in the short term. CSR firms were more resilient to COVID-19 risk. The study concludes with future gaps and findings.
  Keywords: corporate social responsibility; CSR; firm performance; COVID-19; pandemic.
  
  

Special Issue on: ERPBSS-2020 Sustainability, Mobility and Opportunity

• EFFECT OF FIRM SPECIFIC CHARACTERISTICS AND INTEREST RATE ON LEASE FINANCING OF LISTED CONSUMER GOODS IN NIGERIA  
  by UMAR FAROUK ABDULKARIM, LAWAL Mohammed, SANNI OLAWALE NURUDEEN, IBRAHIM LAWAL 
  Abstract: This paper aims to assess the effect of firm-specific characteristics and interest rates on the lease financing of listed consumer goods in Nigeria. Secondary data from the annual report and account of the sampled firms were used from 2011 to 2018. A filtering criterion was adopted, and nine listed consumer goods companies were selected as samples of the study. Multiple regression technique using Generalized Least Square (GLS) was employed in analyzing the panel data. The study's findings revealed that growth opportunity and business complexity significantly influence the lease financing of listed consumer goods companies in Nigeria. At the same time, the interest rate was found to have an insignificant negative influence on the lease financing of listed consumer goods companies in Nigeria. Therefore, the study recommends that managers of listed consumer goods in Nigeria should pay more attention to utilizing lease financing to attain the desired level of growth. This can be achieved by seeking growth opportunities in firms where they can further expand and diversify their businesses in order to meet up with available opportunities.
  Keywords: Firm Specific Characteristics; Interest Rate; Lease Financing; Nigeria.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2025.10056807