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From theory to practice : a methodological roadmap for mapping, assessing, and implementing industrial symbiosis
Get PDFIndustrial symbiosis (IS) is a collaborative approach where industries share and reallocate resources, such as materials, energy, water, and by-products, create mutual benefits and contribute to a circular economy. This concept is limited due to the complexity of implementation and challenges with understanding the roadmap for their establishment. This study aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice by developing a comprehensive, methodologically grounded roadmap for implementing industrial symbiosis. The research combines a review of existing literature with the analysis of real-world case studies to identify and systematize the essential phases, tools, and success factors involved in the industrial symbiosis implementation process. A detailed roadmap comprised key phases: mapping the current situation, identifying potential synergies, assessing feasibility, selecting the most appropriate opportunities, and implementing initiatives. The paper analyzes the relevant methods, tools and criteria for each phase. Particular attention is paid to key success factors, including resource and technology compatibility, geographical aspects, environmental impact, economic viability, and regulatory compliance. The importance of collaboration between different stakeholders and the role of intermediaries in the industrial symbiosis implementation process are highlighted. Based on the realized industrial symbiosis case studies, a few recommendations are given to support adopting industrial symbiosis strategies. The proposed roadmap emphasizes the importance of detailed resource flow mapping, multi-criteria assessment, and stakeholder collaboration with key success factors laying in evaluating technical, economic, environmental, and regulatory dimensions using appropriate tools. Based on the research findings, the proposed roadmap consolidates fragmented approaches, supports strategic planning and provides practical guidance for companies and practitioners looking to integrate industrialsymbiosis into their business. It contributes to a better understanding of the complexity of industrial symbiosis implementation and provides a framework for the wider adoption of these practices in the industry. This research contributes to the operationalization of industrial symbiosis by offering a replicable and adaptable roadmap. Further research should explore digital tools for synergy identification and assess policy mechanisms that can incentivize industrial symbiosis implementation at regional and national levels.peer-reviewe
Quam lingua melitea hic subicio : studies in Maltese linguistics dedicated to Thomas Stolz on the occasion of his 68th birthday
No full textAs a Semitic language, Maltese exhibits root-and-pattern morphology, thus raising the question of whether roots and patterns provide cues that native speakers can exploit during word recognition. In this chapter, we focus on whether the pattern provides native speakers with cues that can facilitate spoken word recognition as has been previously found for visual word recognition (Galea 2011). We present a priming experiment designed to test whether the vocalic melody, prosodic CV structure, and the combination of these elements facilitates response times to auditorily presented target words, using the same auditory masked priming technique previously used for Maltese by Ussishkin et al. (2015). We find no such facilitation, thereby supporting models in which the pattern is not decomposed in the earliest stages of lexical access.peer-reviewe
From visibility to value : social media strategies in the global market research sector
Get PDFPURPOSE: This paper investigates how companies in the market research industry employ
digital marketing, with a focus on social media strategies. The aim is to evaluate their impact
on client engagement, brand visibility, and market positioning.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A multi-case study was conducted on multinational and
smaller research firms using a mixed-method approach. Publicly available data from
LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube were analyzed through both qualitative
content assessment and quantitative engagement metrics.FINDINGS: The study reveals LinkedIn as the dominant platform for B2B communication,
while other channels play supporting roles. Larger firms adopt multi-platform strategies,
whereas smaller firms concentrate on LinkedIn. Posts highlighting achievements, industry
recognition, or employee-focused narratives generate the strongest engagement. The study
relies solely on publicly accessible data, without access to internal analytics or ROI. Future
research should integrate company-level performance data and extend to a wider sample
over time.PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS: The findings suggest that firms should prioritize LinkedIn,
invest in visual channels when resources allow, and encourage employee advocacy to
strengthen credibility and trust.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The paper offers one of the first systematic analyses of social media
strategies in the market research sector, providing insights for both academics and
practitioners.peer-reviewe
Pilot study on the removal of microplastic contamination from spices resulting from the use of pepper mills with plastic grinding mechanisms
Get PDFPURPOSE: This study analyzed the possibility of using magnetic iron oxide (Fe₃O₄)
nanoparticles as sorbents to capture microplastics released during pepper grinding. The
synthesized and functionalized Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles were evaluated for their adsorption and
separation capabilities under laboratory conditions.APPROACH/METHODOLOGY/DESIGN: Microplastics (MP) are increasingly being identified in
food products, and one potentially underestimated source of their presence in the diet is
kitchen equipment. In particular, pepper mills with plastic burrs can generate MP particles
as a result of mechanical abrasion.FINDINGS: The results indicate that nanomagnetic sorbents may be a promising method for
reducing exposure to microplastics from kitchen accessories. At the same time, it is
necessary to further investigate the environmental and biological safety associated with the
use of Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles and to develop strategies for their regeneration and
immobilization.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: It was demonstrated that the application of an external magnetic
field enables the effective removal of MP particles from aqueous solutions, with an average
capture efficiency of approximately 40% (recovery between 30–60%).ORIGINALITY/VALUE: FTIR qualitative analysis confirmed the presence of microplastics in
samples of ground pepper from mills with plastic burrs.This study was conducted within the framework of the project No. PB/13/2021.peer-reviewe
Creative futures : artistic pedagogies for sustainable growth
No full textArt plays a key role in education, stimulating creativity, critical thinking, and emotional
growth among students and teachers alike. This chapter explores how integrating artistic
practice into the learning process enhances cognitive development, engagement, and
interdisciplinary connections. Research has shown that exposure to the arts helps students
develop transferable skills necessary in today’s dynamic world, such as problem-solving skills
and innovative thinking. Moreover, artistic experiences enable teachers’ creativity to explore
new pedagogies to keep themes and activities relevant. This leads to better connection with
their students, encouraging deeper understanding of themselves, others and the world
around them. This chapter examines how art-rich curricula contribute to a holistic learning
environment, supporting diverse learning styles and embracing inclusivity. By incorporating
creativity in education, schools can nurture well-rounded individuals who are equipped not
just with technical knowledge but also with the imaginative capacities necessary for lifelong
learning and adaptability to the increasing changes. Through an exploration of case studies,
academic research, and practical applications, this chapter underscores art’s profound ability
to transform education, shaping both students and teachers into more engaged, insightful
learners. Recognizing and integrating artistic expression within educational systems can lead
to more vibrant, innovative, and inclusive learning experiences for all.peer-reviewe
Anatomical, morphological, and ecological notes on captive-bred Lissachatina Immaculata (Lamarck, 1822) (Gastropoda : Achatinidae), deliberately released into a central Mediterranean ecosystem
Get PDFThe first occurrence of a ‘giant’ African land snail, Lissachatina immaculata (Lamarck, 1822), is
hereby reported from a riparian ecosystem in the north-east of the island of Malta (central
Mediterranean), through a collection of individuals in different stages of growth made in 2019.
Monitoring of this site throughout the span of six years did not result in any subsequent finds;
however, environmental management considerations are forwarded within this study to mitigate the
establishment of yet another non-indigenous terrestrial pest species within the heavily bioinvaded
Maltese Islands. The present species can be differentiated from confamilials and congeners through
a combination of conchological and anatomical features, including a tiny protoconch, a patch of
reddish colouration on the body whorl, and a loop emerging from the distal termination of the penial
sheath.peer-reviewe
The role of a leader in shaping the safety culture of an organization
Get PDFPURPOSE: The purpose of the article is to analyse the role of a leader in shaping the safety
culture of an organization. The article identifies key leadership competencies that influence
safety and presents effective strategies for building safety awareness among employees. The
article also focuses on the importance of proactive leadership in risk management and
implementing effective safety practices.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The study is based on a literature review concerning safety
management, an analysis of leadership theories, and case studies of organizations effectively
implementing a safety culture. The article addresses issues related to leadership
competencies, methods for building awareness of hazards, and the impact of leaders'
attitudes on employee engagement in safety activities. The research problem is formulated as
follows: How does a leader influence the shaping of a safety culture in an organization, and
what leadership competencies are crucial for effective safety management? Corresponding
to the research problem, a research hypothesis is posed, which assumes that an effective
leader, possessing developed competencies in communication, engagement building, and risk
management, significantly contributes to shaping a strong safety culture in the organization
by promoting hazard awareness, implementing effective procedures, and engaging
employees in preventive actions.FINDINGS: The analysis indicates that the role of a leader is crucial in shaping an
organization's safety culture. Leaders who promote transparency, open communication, and
engage employees in safety-related processes contribute to reducing operational risk and
increasing awareness of hazards. Key competencies, such as building trust, making decisions
under uncertainty, and effective communication, significantly impact the effectiveness of
implemented safety strategies. The main challenges include employee resistance to change,
lack of consistency in enforcing rules, and insufficient support from top management.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The study results provide practical recommendations for leaders
seeking to build a strong safety culture within their organization. Key actions include implementing training programs, actively promoting safety values, and utilizing modern
technologies to support risk management processes. The article also emphasizes the need for
further research into the impact of different leadership styles on the effectiveness of safetyrelated actions and the role of innovative tools in enhancing employee awareness.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The article provides value through a comprehensive analysis of the
leader's role in shaping the organization's safety culture. It emphasizes the importance of
leadership competencies, such as communication, engagement building, and risk
management, as key factors influencing safety. The innovative approach involves combining
leadership theory with practical case studies, allowing for the development of effective safety
management strategies. The article constitutes a valuable contribution for practitioners and
researchers involved in organizational safety topics.peer-reviewe
Id-dizzjunarju ta’ Mons. C. Psaila
Get PDFDwayne Ellul jitfa’ dawl fuq faċċata sikwit minsija mill-figura kumplessa ta’ Mons. C. Psaila: il-ħidma tiegħu fuq id-Dizzjunarju Ingliż u Malti, magħruf l-aktar bħala d-Dizzjunarju ta’ Dun Karm.peer-reviewe
AI and audience development : from footfall to forecasting cultural participation
Get PDFThis study investigates the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and audience development strategies within the cultural sector. Building on existing research on cultural participation, this article draws from a nationally funded project which employs AI-powered
computer vision to monitor and predict analytics to forecast visitor and non-visitor flow
outside Malta’s National Centre for Creativity. By mapping movement patterns outside
the creative centre complemented with a survey research, the study provides insights
not only into who visits and when, but also into who remains outside and why. This
study explores how big data on people flow can be useful for decision-making, improving
and promoting the site and the overall visitor experience. This study examines how neural
network-based footfall monitoring and machine learning forecasting models support cultural sites in analysing visitor behaviour, movement, and patterns, enabling better resource
allocation and targeted promotional activities. Central research questions include: How can
AI-driven methodologies support the conversion of non-visitors into visitors? By integrating
AI-driven insights with traditional audience research, this study offers data-based recommendations for audience development. In summary, this article contributes to insight on
the use of computer vision and machine learning algorithms in enhancing cultural site management by providing valuable insights and increasing visitations and cultural participation.peer-reviewe
The impact of burnout and professional rust on organisational safety and the effectiveness of human resource management
Get PDFPURPOSE: This article examines the impact of burnout and rust-out on organisational safety
and the effectiveness of human resource management processes, with particular emphasis on
high-risk sectors.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The article is based on a literature review, comparative
studies of the phenomenon in various sectors responsible for safety, and case studies of
organisations that have implemented effective prevention strategies. The problem was
formulated as follows: How do burnout and rust-out affect the safety of an organisation and
the effectiveness of human resource management? The research hypothesis assumes that
burnout and rust-out significantly reduce the level of organisational safety and the
effectiveness of human resource management. Still, implementing appropriate management
strategies and support programmes can limit their adverse effects.FINDINGS: Burnout and professional rust significantly reduce work efficiency and the
organisation's ability to maintain high security. Systemic management measures, including
human resources policy, psychological support programmes, and competence development,
can mitigate these adverse effects and improve operational stability.PRACTICAL IMPLEMENTATIONS: The interdisciplinary approach allows for formulating practical
recommendations for management and HR specialists, supporting the maintenance of
organisational safety and efficiency.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The article combines psychological and managerial perspectives in the
context of organisational security, while considering two phenomena often considered
separately – burnout and professional rustiness.peer-reviewe