World Review of Entrepreneurship, Management and Sustainable Development (18 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Technical sustainability with hybrid approach in tourism sector  
  by Anuj Kumar, Bindu Roy, Archana Bhatia 
  Abstract: COVID-19 pandemic has brought about forced technological shift in the tourism and hospitality sector with incorporation of artificial intelligence, virtual reality and robotics. The aim of the study is to find the extent and sustenance of technological adaptation in this sector and to critically analyse the far reaching reverberations of this adaptation in the aftermath of the pandemic. This study is based on a traditional narrative review method where global tourism is the primary area of focus. The findings have revealed that AI technologies are a phenomenon in this sector with virtual tourism being the only alternative during the pandemic. While practical usage of robotics technology still poses some challenges in developing countries due to internet connections and a lack of skilled personnel. In sight of this the researchers have designed a model of hybrid approach for tourism sustainability which will aid and steer the tourism and hospitality stakeholders.
  Keywords: post-COVID-19; tourism; sustainability; artificial intelligence; robotics; virtual reality.
  DOI: 10.1504/WREMSD.2023.10056827
   
  
• Way for social sustainability by making rural people self- reliant: An Evaluation of NABARDs initiatives in India  
  by Jyoti Yadav, Ravinder Kaur, Suyash Mishra 
  Abstract: For sustainable development, the Self-Reliant India Mission was announced with the economic package to revive the Indian economy battered due to COVID19 pandemic. Government of India has been planning and implementing various tremendous schemes/programmes for making India self-sufficient and self-reliant including Self-Help Group-Bank linkage programme (SHG-BLP) which is one of the initiatives of NABARD for making rural people self-dependent. This paper aims to investigate the role of SHG-BLP in achieving the goal of social sustainability. For empirical analysis, data on the performance of SHG-BLP and other initiatives taken by NABARD have been considered. The analysis explored that SHG-BLP and other initiatives are working as an energy booster for Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and pathways for social sustainability by making Indian rural people self-dependent.
  Keywords: Sustainable development; social sustainability; self-reliant; self-help group-bank linkage programme; SHG-BLP; self-help groups; SHGs; women empowerment.
  
  
• A systematic review of environmental sustainability and economic growth  
  by Sukhwinder Singh, Manoj Sharma, Yogesh Gupta 
  Abstract: With the deadline for sustainable development goals nearly a decade away, it becomes relevant to conduct a cost-benefit analysis and ascertain the cost of a sustainable economy. Divergent discourses reveal that elements responsible for economic growth and environmental sustainability constantly interact with each other in an inefficient manner. For instance, an increase in foreign direct investment (FDI) in polluting industries deteriorates the environment, and then changing climatic conditions with high pollution levels impact the output, health, and quality of life. Whereas this effect will be larger for developing countries who are keeping the environment at toe with their detrimental policies. Developed countries are also giving a disadvantage to lower-income countries by utterly exploiting their natural capital stock and worsening their ecological footprint. Analysing extensive literature by using PRISMA analysis makes it practicable for developing countries to understand the causality between indicators of economic growth and environment and draft policies accordingly.
  Keywords: abatement cost; climate change; ecological footprint; economic development; EKC hypothesis; energy consumption; environmental economics; environmental pollution; environmental taxes; industrial activities; social cost of pollution; sustainable development.
  DOI: 10.1504/WREMSD.2023.10053822
   
  
• Fuzzy Integration into Sustainability Review  
  by Enis Kucuk, Hatice Camgoz Akdag 
  Abstract: Fuzzy Logic Integration is a promising solution to overcome vagueness included in sustainability via dealing with vague and missing data in the sustainability concept. This study aims to advance sustainability evaluation research by a systematic review and how sustainability issues can be overcome in different disciplines and fields using fuzzy logic under the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) framework. A systematic literature search was performed by querying keywords on Scopus and Web of Science databases that consider dealing with fuzziness included in sustainability concept and TBL dimensions. Besides abstracts, full texts were also scanned to ensure the relevance of the papers, and the determined articles were examined in detail for their fuzzy approach to dealing with the sustainability issue. In this study, all types of fuzzy techniques were considered and evaluated (not only focusing on any specific method, e.g., focusing on only fuzzy multi-attribute decision-making and so forth). The searching returned 514 papers, and after the screening process, 70 papers remained and were evaluated due to containing sufficient information regarding fuzziness and sustainability. Most of the publications are on fuzzy multi-criteria decision making, such as fuzzy AHP and fuzzy TOPSIS techniques, and focused on solutions in the supply chain management area. The results demonstrate that the fuzzy methods in sustainability examination have promising potential in dealing with the complexities and can support decision-makers.
  Keywords: Sustainability; Fuzzy; Triple Bottom Line; Indicator,.
  
  
• Developing emotionally intelligent organisations: an imperative for sustainable competitive edge  
  by Priyanka, Shikha N. Khera, Pradeep Kumar Suri 
  Abstract: This paper tries to identify the human capabilities and competencies that work as enablers to achieve Sustainable Competitive Advantage (SCA). It also discusses the emerging conceptualisation of Emotionally Intelligent Organisations (EIO). By examining various people competencies associated with sustainable competitive edge and the characteristics of EIO, it is observed that a high degree of commonality exists between them. Evidence is presented that supports the argument that creating EIO can pave the way for sustainable competitive edge. Skills such as leadership, creativity, innovation and teamwork, which are deemed necessary to use and design the core competencies in a manner that creates superior response than competitors and thereby, results in a sustainable competitive edge for the organisations, are the very capabilities which form the lifeblood of EIO. Paper concludes with the recommendations to help organisations become emotionally intelligent.
  Keywords: emotionally intelligent organisations; emotional intelligence; sustainable competitive advantage; leadership; learning; agility; innovation; creativity; flexibility; teamwork.
  DOI: 10.1504/WREMSD.2023.10054935
   
  
• Upper Echelon Theory versus Dynamic Capabilities Theory Relevance for Current Sustainability Entrepreneurs  
  by Danjuma T. Nimfa, Ahmad Shaharudin Abdul Latiff, Sazali Abdul Wahab 
  Abstract: The main purpose of this study was to compare the suitability of the upper echelon theory (UET) and the dynamic capabilities theory (DCT) for sustainability entrepreneurs. The study investigated which theory was more appropriate and suitable as the underpinning theory that could be anchored as a pedestal for studies on the sustainability of entrepreneurs. The methodological approach was literature analysis by gathering the information that would validate the practical application and contributions of UET and DCT relevance for current sustainability entrepreneurs. Therefore, this study concluded that UET and DCT support sustainability theories because of their pragmatic and dynamic ability to address the current changing phenomenon in order to protect future businesses. This study also recommends that UET and DCT be applied as ground-breaking theories that may not have existed in previous literature for the sustainability of entrepreneur support which could improve management.
  Keywords: Upper echelon theory; Dynamic capabilities theory; Sustainability; Entrepreneurs.
  
  
• Entrepreneurial competence and commitment of smallholder farmers in Madagascar  
  by Boris Urban, Mc Edward Murimbika, Radomalala Ratsimanetrimanana 
  Abstract: Entrepreneurial capital (EC) is a crucial driver of performance for smallholder famers which represents a major share of economic activity for many developing. This article examines the extent to which EC, in the form of interactions between entrepreneurial competence and entrepreneurial commitment, affects the performance of smallholder farmers in Madagascar, while taking into consideration the effects of their gender, age and level of education. The study context is the under-researched rural areas of the central region of Analamanga, which comprises of seven rural districts with a total of 139 municipalities, where a sample of 411 smallholder farmers are surveyed. The results reveal a positive relationship between entrepreneurial competencies (perceived capacity, perceived opportunity, and role models) and entrepreneurial commitment (affective commitment) which together positively influence performance, while several demographic factors also play a significant role. Study implications relate to how increased EC may help local people in a developing country context improve their enterprise performance. Government is advised to encourage entrepreneurship in Madagascar by advancing the numerous factors involved in enhancing EC.
  Keywords: entrepreneurial capital; entrepreneurial competence; entrepreneurial commitment; smallholder farmers; Madagascar; perceived capacity; perceived opportunity; role models; performancernrn.
  
  
• Collective linkage for rural community welfare: a collaborative effort by Amul Dairy and Tribhuvandas Foundation  
  by Darshana R. Dave, Srinivas Sajja 
  Abstract: Inter-organisational arrangements can benefit stakeholders and the community at large. Collaborations exhibit potential in community healthcare services as they address native problems efficiently and are less reliant on public infrastructure. The paper attempts to throw light upon the successful linkage of a farmer cooperative (Amul Dairy) with an NGO (Tribhuvandas Foundation (TF)), an integrated, symbiotic developmental approach with a keen focus on community-based primary healthcare. The study adopts a holistic design with an inductive, longitudinal case approach and follows an exploratory research methodology. Amul Dairy provides sustainable livelihood opportunities to dairy farmers to acquire financial stability and multi-dimensional growth thereby empowering them to contribute to their communities at large, while TF contributes to community healthcare and social welfare through myriad initiatives. These joint efforts have paved the way to address member well-being in cooperative set-ups, apart from providing wider social community welfare benefits through a unique collaborative model.
  Keywords: dairy cooperatives; India; NGO; community welfare; community-based primary healthcare programmes; village health workers; child care; nutrition; social community; clinical services; Covid-19.
  DOI: 10.1504/WREMSD.2022.10051792
   
  
• Statistics of Sustainable Development evolution in Colombia  
  by Fabio Bermejo, Luis Ramirez-Polo, Norberto Acuña 
  Abstract: Sustainable development currently forms the cross-cutting axis of government programs at the national, regional, and municipal levels of most countries in the world. Colombia has not been immune to this trend, and through its last governments, it has implemented programs aimed at this aim. This article shows how sustainable development in Colombia has been evolving in recent years, analyzed through national and international databases indicators of ecological footprint, biocapacity, human development Index (HDI), and energy, numerically detailing each Factor and analyzing its trends. At the end of the study could be concluded that the increase in the human development index has generated an increase in the ecological footprint (maintaining a reserve in 1.6 hags per capita), 1.25 planets earth would be needed if all humanity lived at the pace of life of Colombians, but the energy intensity and the intensity of emissions have decreased. Long-term policies seek to diversify the energy matrix by increasing generation through non-conventional renewable sources, positioning energy as the principal source of development, emphasizing environmental management, energy efficiency, service coverage, and regional integration.
  Keywords: Sustainable development; Human Development Index; ecological footprint; energy intensity.
  
  
• Factors Influencing Sustainable Entrepreneurship: A Systematic Review  
  by Jayaram R, Sanjeet Singh 
  Abstract: Entrepreneurship and Sustainability are inevitable to the modern world. This review is twenty years consolidation of the high-quality papers related to sustainable entrepreneurship. This review had the purpose of understanding the factors, challenges, and models related to sustainable entrepreneurship. In this review, sixty-two peer-reviewed journal articles in thirty- three journals related to sustainable entrepreneurship in the last two decades. This paper used Web of Science resources to picture the current working themes in sustainable entrepreneurship. The topics of factors influencing sustainable entrepreneurship, the challenges of sustainable entrepreneurship, and models of sustainable entrepreneurship were important. This research had identified forty-six determinants, ten challenges, and several models of sustainable entrepreneurship. R studio and Wordstat are used for content analysis. This research had identified forty-six determinants, ten challenges, and several models of sustainable entrepreneurship. This research identified under-researched determinants, challenges, and models, with scope for further exploration.
  Keywords: Sustainability; Sustainable Entrepreneurship; Entrepreneur; Systematic Review.
  
  
• Comparitive Assessment of Green Growth Indicators for China and India  
  by Anindita Chatterjee, Jitendra Gaur 
  Abstract: The paper empirically analyses green growth development in India and China as they are the emerging economies of Asia. Economic growth with the environmental and social well being is vital for achieving green growth. The study uses longitudinal data for both countries from 1990 to 2016 for empirical analysis. T-test and hierarchical clustering have been used to find significant differences between India and China. We found that green growth is a challenging course for both the countries though their growth patterns are entirely different with China leading the green growth pathway with advanced technology and structure. In India, apart from the enforced regulations, the activities need to be implemented for meaningful progress in the area of green growth. The outcome of the paper depicts the difference in growth patterns of both the countries concerning green growth indicators.
  Keywords: Green Growth; Green Economies; Emerging Economy; Sustainability; CO2 Productivity; CO2 Emissions; Pollution; Growth Rate.
  
  
• The Impact of the No Choice Option on the Performance of Women-Owned Businesses in Patriarchal Societies  
  by Bridget Nneka Irene, Joan Lockyer, Cherisse Hoyte, Sunita Dewitt, Razieh Sadraei 
  Abstract: The female' underperformance' discourse is a well-established and often disputed notion in entrepreneurship research. this paper seeks to challenge performance measures and re-evaluate the association between gender and business performance using non-conventional performance indicators. This paper uses the Theory of Planned Behaviour and patriarchy as the theoretical frameworks, and Feminist Poststructuralist Discourse Analysis (FPDA) as the method to critically evaluate the association between choice intentions and performance in the context of women-owned businesses in a patriarchal society such as Nigeria, where often success is not required, expected nor welcomed. The data drawn from 100 women entrepreneurs found that 'no choice' or 'forced choice' impacted women's entrepreneurial intentions and, consequently, their business performance. This paper develops a critical analysis of the association between the 'No Choice Option' and the underperformance of women-owned businesses. This association can explain the high failure rates of women-owned businesses in Nigeria.
  Keywords: Gender; Entrepreneurial Intentions; Patriarchy; Underperformance; Theory of Planned Behaviour.
  
  
• What is remote-rural and why is it important?  
  by Sayed Abdul Majid Gilani, Naveed Yasin, Peter Duncan, Anne M.J. Smith 
  Abstract: The discourse related to explaining the meaning of rural, particularly in contrast to urban areas, is well established and crucial for policy as well as other decision makers. However, it can be argued that not all rural can be classified as the same. In comparison to rural in general, the discussion related to the nature of 'remote-rural' is comparatively under-explored. The aim of this paper is to contribute towards the understanding of the concept as well as definitions related to remote-rural, particularly (but not exclusively) in a Scottish context. Based on a conceptual literature review, key findings in this paper are introduced in the form of five dimensions of rurality. This paper also proposes for policymakers to consider the concept of remote-rural while formulating policy to improve broadband adoption/use in isolated/remote areas in Scotland. The limitations of the study as well as avenues for future research are discussed in the final section.
  Keywords: remote-rural; rural areas; isolated areas; rural classification and rural.
  DOI: 10.1504/WREMSD.2024.10064934
   
  
• Discernment of general masses concerning sustainable development and corporate social responsibility in business organisations  
  by Rajni Bala, Sandeep Singh, Sandhir Sharma 
  Abstract: From the past decade concept of sustainable development must be seen as one of the big tales of India. Corporate social responsibility is a hot item in the business world and one of the challenges for the future. Corporate environmental responsibility is an integral part of corporate social responsibility and encompasses environment commitment to continuous improvement, awareness, measuring, reporting, auditing and going beyond compliance. The study aims to brief the viewers about the ecological degradation and capturing their perception about the role of corporate houses towards a sustainable growth and eco development of the country. The present research work has been carried out to examine the factors affecting the role of corporate houses in sustainable growth and eco-development of economy in Punjab state of India. The sample of the study was 300 general masses. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted to determine the underlying factors on the primary data and seven factors were confirmed.
  Keywords: sustainable development; corporate social responsibility; ecological degradation; exploratory factor analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/WREMSD.2024.10064935
   
  
• Transitioning toward total equality: a theory of hybridisation and natural selection  
  by Jeffrey Overall, Hector Gonzalez-Jimenez 
  Abstract: Diversity researchers have focused on asserting a relationship between equality and positive economic returns. However, a theory that can explain how and why this relationship exists, while also accounting for internationalisation, has so far been limited. To this end, we draw on natural selection and hybridisation theory to explain how equality and a natural reduction in discrimination appears to be occurring over time and why this is leading to positive economic outcomes. Using a unified structure of cases from the extant literature, we create a five-stage multilevel conceptual framework. Through this model, we show that when entities are exposed (through hybridisation) to the economic benefits that can be achieved through embracing equality, they will likely imitate these equality-embracing behaviours via natural selection. Embracing equality will become the norm in society over time, leading to a natural reduction in discrimination. This research is important because researchers and practitioners should be in an improved position to account for not only the temporal nature, but also the stages likely to follow in sequence in the transition toward total equality.
  Keywords: discrimination; diversity; equality; human resources management; hybridisation; natural selection.
  DOI: 10.1504/WREMSD.2024.10064936
   
  
• An empirical comparison between ESG 100 & sectoral indices with perspective of circular economy  
  by Zakir Mujeeb Shaikh, R. Suguna 
  Abstract: The past decade has seen the renewed importance of Environment Social Governance (ESG) awareness raising in the financial market. In this perspective, the Circular Economy (CE) becomes the central relevance. This study aims to examine the impact of the circular economy on sectoral indices over the ESG100 index. To investigate ESG scores, quantitative measures are performed. Our experimental setup is designed using a python programming language. The National Stock Exchange India (NSEI) data for the period of 1 January 2011 to 28 February 2022 is obtained from public domain. By comparing the ESG 100 index with other sectoral indices, we found that the ESG 100 index portfolio has a positive impact on stock performance. Although ESG 100 index score does not express higher performance in CE, further, our analysis shows that, to date, there is no evidence that CE initiative can influence stock returns.
  Keywords: environment; social; governance; sector; correlation; financial market.
  DOI: 10.1504/WREMSD.2022.10052762
   
  
• The impact of quality management dimensions on the competitive advantage  
  by Ayman Mustafa Al Armoti, Khaled M.K. Alhyasat, Hasan Juned Bukhari 
  Abstract: This study examines the impact of quality management dimensions on the competitive advantage of Masafi Water Company in Al Ain City. Primary data was obtained by administering surveys to a target population of 568 grocery stores in Al Ain City. The importance of this study is to create value for the local and typical business entity, and pave a productive gateway for the UAE economy since it presents a strategic approach to interacting with customers while they compete with the competitors, that will increase the quality of the plans that follow eventually and will reflect on the market share positively. The analysis through SPSS was used to test the data, and the results showed that dimensions of service quality were extensively implemented by Masafi and had a positive correlation to the firm's competitive advantage. However, the competitive strategy and product were insignificant on Masafi's competitive advantage.
  Keywords: quality management; product; service; competitive strategy; competitive advantage.
  DOI: 10.1504/WREMSD.2023.10053647
   
  

Special Issue on: ICKSSD2019 Sustainable Consumption, Public Policy and Corporate Interventions

• Consumer behaviour towards adopting sustainable alternative electronic payment methods  
  by Sandeep Prabhu, Vishal Kumar 
  Abstract: Electronic payment methods are sustainable alternatives to cash transactions. This research identifies factors of consumer behaviour towards electronic payment methods. Consumer behaviour of electronic payment methods is operationalised using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), checked for validity and reliability, and then tested for Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Data is collected from 467 users of electronic payment methods. CFA confirms five-factor structure of consumer behaviour of electronic payment methods as, facilitating conditions, effort expectancy, performance expectancy, perceived security, and behavioural intention. The SEM methodology suggests payment facilitating conditions and payment system performance expectancy lead to consumer's effort expectancy, and effort expectancy and consumer perceived security lead to consumer behaviour towards electronics payment method. Customer convenience ecosystem can resolve the challenge of cash transactions by integrating electronic payment systems. The research is significant considering recent consumer shift towards electronics payment methods as an alternative to cash transaction.
  Keywords: electronic payment; consumer behaviour; confirmatory factor analysis; technology management; sustainable development; structural equation modelling; policy.
  DOI: 10.1504/WREMSD.2024.10064937