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Disruptions in sustainability-led business endeavors
No full textAbstract
While sustainability innovations, particularly those aligned with circular economy (CE) principles, are often portrayed positively in previous research, this chapter explores the complexities and potential problems of sustainability-led business endeavours by focusing on business disruptions. Drawing on research developed within the Industrial Marketing and Purchasing (IMP) tradition, two recent sustainability-led endeavours in the textile and apparel (T&A) industry are analysed. The two case studies are based on secondary data and outline the development of the companies (Rekki in Finland and Renewcell in Sweden) over time. The companies aimed to transform the T&A industry by promoting CE strategies of reuse and recycling, with the aim of extending the lifetimes of textile products and materials. However, the analysis shows that both companies struggled with leadership and operational challenges, scalability issues, and weak network embeddedness. Despite initial hype and stakeholder enthusiasm, both companies failed to establish viable business models and lasting business relationships. The analysis highlights two types of disruption: one caused by the companies’ own transformative ambitions (leading to bankruptcy) and the other caused by the industry’s inability to support such changes. While sustainability-led endeavours hold transformative potential, their impact depends not only on innovation but also on effective scaling, network integration, and realistic stakeholder expectations.Abstract
While sustainability innovations, particularly those aligned with circular economy (CE) principles, are often portrayed positively in previous research, this chapter explores the complexities and potential problems of sustainability-led business endeavours by focusing on business disruptions. Drawing on research developed within the Industrial Marketing and Purchasing (IMP) tradition, two recent sustainability-led endeavours in the textile and apparel (T&A) industry are analysed. The two case studies are based on secondary data and outline the development of the companies (Rekki in Finland and Renewcell in Sweden) over time. The companies aimed to transform the T&A industry by promoting CE strategies of reuse and recycling, with the aim of extending the lifetimes of textile products and materials. However, the analysis shows that both companies struggled with leadership and operational challenges, scalability issues, and weak network embeddedness. Despite initial hype and stakeholder enthusiasm, both companies failed to establish viable business models and lasting business relationships. The analysis highlights two types of disruption: one caused by the companies’ own transformative ambitions (leading to bankruptcy) and the other caused by the industry’s inability to support such changes. While sustainability-led endeavours hold transformative potential, their impact depends not only on innovation but also on effective scaling, network integration, and realistic stakeholder expectations
Grand Societal Challenges Really Matter: How Does the Resilience of Physicians Contribute to That of the Hospital? A Qualitative Exploration
No full textAbstract
This paper is one of the few studies to specifically investigate how the physicians' resilience (individual level) can potentially contribute to that of their hospitals (organizational level) in the context of grand societal challenges. The empirical sample comprises semi-structured interviews with 32 physicians working in four Egyptian public hospitals. Thematic analysis was subsequently used to analyze interviews. The findings show that in the context of grand societal challenges (increased numbers of refugees in this case), physicians can contribute to the resilience of the public hospitals they work in through different practices. In particular, we found contextual practices (prioritizing the main challenges, ensuring a rational use of discretionary power), procedural practices (ensuring the creation of public value, fostering collaboration with private hospitals) and developmental practices (adopting a “work first” approach, exercising routines through learning) to be vital in this concern.Abstract
This paper is one of the few studies to specifically investigate how the physicians' resilience (individual level) can potentially contribute to that of their hospitals (organizational level) in the context of grand societal challenges. The empirical sample comprises semi-structured interviews with 32 physicians working in four Egyptian public hospitals. Thematic analysis was subsequently used to analyze interviews. The findings show that in the context of grand societal challenges (increased numbers of refugees in this case), physicians can contribute to the resilience of the public hospitals they work in through different practices. In particular, we found contextual practices (prioritizing the main challenges, ensuring a rational use of discretionary power), procedural practices (ensuring the creation of public value, fostering collaboration with private hospitals) and developmental practices (adopting a “work first” approach, exercising routines through learning) to be vital in this concern
Study on the kinetic characteristics and energy efficiency optimization of microwave drying for ammonia-zinc leaching residues
No full textAbstract
Zinc ammonia leaching residues are categorized as secondary recyclable materials containing substantial quantities of ZnAl2O4, ZnCl2, and Al2O3. However, they present significant environmental and operational hazards when introduced into downstream processing stages under moisture-laden conditions. For instance, the high-temperature vaporization of residual moisture can increase system pressure, potentially resulting in operational hazards. Microwave-selective heating of polar water molecules is utilized to enhance internal dehydration within the leaching residue. The effects of initial mass (10–30 g), moisture content (5 %-15 %), and microwave power (160–480 W) on drying kinetics were systematically investigated. The experimental results indicate that the peak drying rate of 0.00867 g/s was achieved under conditions of 20 g initial mass, 7.5 % moisture content, and 400 W microwave power, representing a substantial improvement in drying efficiency compared to conventional methods. The Page model (R2>0.9) accurately characterizes the microwave drying process, as confirmed by its fitting performance within the thin-layer drying framework. Analysis of the diffusion coefficient reveals distinct stage-specific behaviors, beginning with rapid evaporation of free water, followed by a slower phase dominated by bound water removal. The calculated activation energy (-23.1 g/W) confirms that microwave irradiation effectively lowers the energy barrier for moisture migration. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy further indicates that the chemical structure of the leaching residue remains unchanged during microwave drying, while the reduced intensity of water-associated peaks reflects efficient free water removal. Energy efficiency analysis reveals that increasing the initial mass and moisture content under constant microwave power enhances microwave utilization efficiency and reduces energy consumption. These findings provide a theoretical basis for optimizing microwave drying processes in the treatment of metallurgical solid waste and play a vital role in promoting the development of green metallurgical technologies.Abstract
Zinc ammonia leaching residues are categorized as secondary recyclable materials containing substantial quantities of ZnAl2O4, ZnCl2, and Al2O3. However, they present significant environmental and operational hazards when introduced into downstream processing stages under moisture-laden conditions. For instance, the high-temperature vaporization of residual moisture can increase system pressure, potentially resulting in operational hazards. Microwave-selective heating of polar water molecules is utilized to enhance internal dehydration within the leaching residue. The effects of initial mass (10–30 g), moisture content (5 %-15 %), and microwave power (160–480 W) on drying kinetics were systematically investigated. The experimental results indicate that the peak drying rate of 0.00867 g/s was achieved under conditions of 20 g initial mass, 7.5 % moisture content, and 400 W microwave power, representing a substantial improvement in drying efficiency compared to conventional methods. The Page model (R2>0.9) accurately characterizes the microwave drying process, as confirmed by its fitting performance within the thin-layer drying framework. Analysis of the diffusion coefficient reveals distinct stage-specific behaviors, beginning with rapid evaporation of free water, followed by a slower phase dominated by bound water removal. The calculated activation energy (-23.1 g/W) confirms that microwave irradiation effectively lowers the energy barrier for moisture migration. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy further indicates that the chemical structure of the leaching residue remains unchanged during microwave drying, while the reduced intensity of water-associated peaks reflects efficient free water removal. Energy efficiency analysis reveals that increasing the initial mass and moisture content under constant microwave power enhances microwave utilization efficiency and reduces energy consumption. These findings provide a theoretical basis for optimizing microwave drying processes in the treatment of metallurgical solid waste and play a vital role in promoting the development of green metallurgical technologies
The effect of ageing time on the microstructure and properties of a warm-rolled Ni-W-Co-Ta medium–heavy alloy
No full textAbstract
Ageing treatments were performed on a 50 % warm-rolled Ni-W-Co-Ta medium–heavy alloy for different time (1, 2, 4, 8,16 h) at 725 °C. The effects of ageing time on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the alloy were investigated. The results showed that after ageing treatment, a long-range ordered D1a-type Ni4W strengthening phase precipitated in the alloy. As the ageing time increased, the size of the Ni4W phase grew slightly, and the Ni4W particles presented an approximately spherical shape, and the strength of the alloy first increased and then exhibited a slight decrease, and the elongation after fracture increased. When the ageing time was 8 h, the alloy exhibited a yield strength of 1903 MPa, and the tensile strength remained 2147 MPa, and the elongation after fracture reached 18 %, respectively. Under the combined action of precipitation strengthening, static recovery, and twinning strengthening, the alloy exhibited good overall mechanical properties.Abstract
Ageing treatments were performed on a 50 % warm-rolled Ni-W-Co-Ta medium–heavy alloy for different time (1, 2, 4, 8,16 h) at 725 °C. The effects of ageing time on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the alloy were investigated. The results showed that after ageing treatment, a long-range ordered D1a-type Ni4W strengthening phase precipitated in the alloy. As the ageing time increased, the size of the Ni4W phase grew slightly, and the Ni4W particles presented an approximately spherical shape, and the strength of the alloy first increased and then exhibited a slight decrease, and the elongation after fracture increased. When the ageing time was 8 h, the alloy exhibited a yield strength of 1903 MPa, and the tensile strength remained 2147 MPa, and the elongation after fracture reached 18 %, respectively. Under the combined action of precipitation strengthening, static recovery, and twinning strengthening, the alloy exhibited good overall mechanical properties
Customer Engagement and Virtual Reality : A Review and Future Research Agenda
No full textAbstract
Customer engagement (CE) research has been increasingly developed in recent years. With the increased utilization of technology in customer engagement, tech-based solutions such as virtual reality (VR) are transforming customer engagement. Therefore, there is a need to understand the evolving patterns and thematic trends in the CE literature that has been developed concerning VR. Hence, this study provides a broad overview of CE literature developed around VR using a systematic literature review method. To achieve this aim, this study uses the theories, contexts, and methods framework based on the content and thematic analysis of 36 peer-reviewed articles. Finally, we develop a future research agenda that helps customer engagement scholarship to move the field forward through VR.Abstract
Customer engagement (CE) research has been increasingly developed in recent years. With the increased utilization of technology in customer engagement, tech-based solutions such as virtual reality (VR) are transforming customer engagement. Therefore, there is a need to understand the evolving patterns and thematic trends in the CE literature that has been developed concerning VR. Hence, this study provides a broad overview of CE literature developed around VR using a systematic literature review method. To achieve this aim, this study uses the theories, contexts, and methods framework based on the content and thematic analysis of 36 peer-reviewed articles. Finally, we develop a future research agenda that helps customer engagement scholarship to move the field forward through VR
The Impact of Global Value Chains on Labour Markets and Employment
No full textAbstract
This chapter presents an overview of the multiple influences of global value chains (GVCs) on labour markets and employment in both developed and emerging economies. The chapter summarizes key trends associated with GVCs in this concern by briefly discussing labour market polarization as well as wage structure and dynamics. This discussion further touches briefly upon specific issues faced by high-skilled, medium-skilled, and low-skilled labour due to GVCs’ prominence and their restructuring. Finally, as a practical example linked to this chapter, the chapter presents an analysis of electronic manufacturing GVCs in China and East Asia.Abstract
This chapter presents an overview of the multiple influences of global value chains (GVCs) on labour markets and employment in both developed and emerging economies. The chapter summarizes key trends associated with GVCs in this concern by briefly discussing labour market polarization as well as wage structure and dynamics. This discussion further touches briefly upon specific issues faced by high-skilled, medium-skilled, and low-skilled labour due to GVCs’ prominence and their restructuring. Finally, as a practical example linked to this chapter, the chapter presents an analysis of electronic manufacturing GVCs in China and East Asia
K+ pre-intercalated hydrate vanadium pentoxide as cathode for enhanced stability and kinetics in sodium ion batteries
No full textAbstract
Hydrate vanadium pentoxide (V2O5·nH2O, VOH) is a promising cathode material for rechargeable batteries, due to its high theoretical capacity, adjustable interlayer spacing, and the inherent multivalency of vanadium. However, the simultaneous intercalation and redox reactions during Na+ storage poses challenges for structural stability during cycling. This work chemically pre-inserts potassium ions (K+) to VOH, forming KVOH during hydrothermal synthesis. The pre-intercalated K+ partially replaces weakly bound interlayer water, reducing the interlayer spacing and stabilizing the layered framework by mitigating the stress from repeated Na+ insertion/extraction. X-ray absorption revealed the partial reduction of V5+ to V4+ to compensate the insertion of K+ to maintain the electroneutrality. XPS analyses and DFT calculations corroborate the K+ insertion. The resulting KVOH demonstrated enhanced rate capability with an energy efficiency of 76 % at 0.05 A g−1, along with improved kinetics evidenced by lower electrochemical impedance, diminished polarization, and accelerated Na+ diffusion.Abstract
Hydrate vanadium pentoxide (V2O5·nH2O, VOH) is a promising cathode material for rechargeable batteries, due to its high theoretical capacity, adjustable interlayer spacing, and the inherent multivalency of vanadium. However, the simultaneous intercalation and redox reactions during Na+ storage poses challenges for structural stability during cycling. This work chemically pre-inserts potassium ions (K+) to VOH, forming KVOH during hydrothermal synthesis. The pre-intercalated K+ partially replaces weakly bound interlayer water, reducing the interlayer spacing and stabilizing the layered framework by mitigating the stress from repeated Na+ insertion/extraction. X-ray absorption revealed the partial reduction of V5+ to V4+ to compensate the insertion of K+ to maintain the electroneutrality. XPS analyses and DFT calculations corroborate the K+ insertion. The resulting KVOH demonstrated enhanced rate capability with an energy efficiency of 76 % at 0.05 A g−1, along with improved kinetics evidenced by lower electrochemical impedance, diminished polarization, and accelerated Na+ diffusion
Electric Powertrain Vehicles in Supply Chain Management: New Perspectives to Consider
No full textAbstract
The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is imperative, with electricity emerging as a promising alternative, particularly in short-range transportation. However, integrating electric power into supply chain management (SCM) involves more than replacing diesel with electricity; it requires addressing complex operational, technological, and energy-related challenges. This study explores these challenges by examining how SCM must adapt to accommodate electric powertrain vehicles, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs), fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), and hydrogen hybrids. Adopting a qualitative descriptive methodology, the research draws on thematic interviews, focus groups, and empirical insights from a diverse group of stakeholders across the logistics, automotive, and energy sectors. The findings highlight the need for SCM to evolve by integrating energy production, storage, and logistics into traditional models. Particular emphasis is placed on the strategic role of energy management, including vehicle-to-grid systems, local energy generation, and dynamic pricing. This study contributes to the field by proposing new perspectives on SCM that foreground energy as a critical resource and competitive factor. It also underscores the shifting power dynamics between logistics providers, energy producers, and vehicle manufacturers. By bridging insights from logistics, energy systems, and public policy, the chapter supports the development of more sustainable, adaptive, and energy-aware supply chains.Abstract
The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is imperative, with electricity emerging as a promising alternative, particularly in short-range transportation. However, integrating electric power into supply chain management (SCM) involves more than replacing diesel with electricity; it requires addressing complex operational, technological, and energy-related challenges. This study explores these challenges by examining how SCM must adapt to accommodate electric powertrain vehicles, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs), fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), and hydrogen hybrids. Adopting a qualitative descriptive methodology, the research draws on thematic interviews, focus groups, and empirical insights from a diverse group of stakeholders across the logistics, automotive, and energy sectors. The findings highlight the need for SCM to evolve by integrating energy production, storage, and logistics into traditional models. Particular emphasis is placed on the strategic role of energy management, including vehicle-to-grid systems, local energy generation, and dynamic pricing. This study contributes to the field by proposing new perspectives on SCM that foreground energy as a critical resource and competitive factor. It also underscores the shifting power dynamics between logistics providers, energy producers, and vehicle manufacturers. By bridging insights from logistics, energy systems, and public policy, the chapter supports the development of more sustainable, adaptive, and energy-aware supply chains
Policy Failures, Action and Implementation Gaps, and Non-Policy in Tourism
No full textAbstract
Recent environmental, political, and economic crises have further shed light on the vulnerability of tourism across different regions and environments around the globe. From a public policy perspective, regulations and direct interventions of the state are expected to address the socio-economic criticalities that are often the result of a policy failure or the inaction of governments or other actors on key policy issues. Public policy in tourism is generally characterized by extemporaneous and short-term policy actions in the aftermath of a crisis. More importantly, tourism is often overlooked as a policy issue, even when it is part of the problem or is significantly affected by policy decisions on key matters like migration, environment, infrastructure, and finance. This may be because there is no clear institutional authority for tourism and that it therefore falls between the policy cracks, or it may be because it is just not taken seriously as a policy area. The following chapter provides a critical appraisal on policy issues and policy interventions with direct impacts in tourism as well as policy problems caused by unregulated and market-driven tourism policies. It does so by presenting a framework illustrating policy failures, and policy-action relationships/policy implementation gaps and non-policies building from evidence collected from different destinations and contexts in developed and developing countries. The chapter then provides an overview and a rethinking of policy action in tourism in opposition to the prevailing mode of governance and public policy making.Abstract
Recent environmental, political, and economic crises have further shed light on the vulnerability of tourism across different regions and environments around the globe. From a public policy perspective, regulations and direct interventions of the state are expected to address the socio-economic criticalities that are often the result of a policy failure or the inaction of governments or other actors on key policy issues. Public policy in tourism is generally characterized by extemporaneous and short-term policy actions in the aftermath of a crisis. More importantly, tourism is often overlooked as a policy issue, even when it is part of the problem or is significantly affected by policy decisions on key matters like migration, environment, infrastructure, and finance. This may be because there is no clear institutional authority for tourism and that it therefore falls between the policy cracks, or it may be because it is just not taken seriously as a policy area. The following chapter provides a critical appraisal on policy issues and policy interventions with direct impacts in tourism as well as policy problems caused by unregulated and market-driven tourism policies. It does so by presenting a framework illustrating policy failures, and policy-action relationships/policy implementation gaps and non-policies building from evidence collected from different destinations and contexts in developed and developing countries. The chapter then provides an overview and a rethinking of policy action in tourism in opposition to the prevailing mode of governance and public policy making
Cultural Heritage Tourism: A Future for Sustainable Development?
No full textSummary
Cultural heritage is, by definition, the contemporary use, interpretation, and valuation of both tangible and intangible inheritances from the past. Unsurprisingly, then, cultural heritage is often understood to be a potential point of interest for tourists, and, for many destinations, cultural heritage attributes are often key elements of tourism marketing campaigns. However, there has also been a more recent shift towards the blending of cultural heritage tourism and sustainable development, particularly with a focus on poverty alleviation. To that end, this chapter discusses the integration of these two principles. In particular, the chapter seeks to discuss what the author has found to be key elements of sustainable cultural heritage tourism development, namely the inclusion of both local communities in planning and development processes and the acknowledgement and integration of local identity in relation to local heritage. There is also be a brief presentation of the risks faced by sustainable heritage tourism development, both from external forces as well as from tourism itself. Finally, the chapter concludes with a discussion of the need for a shift from sustainable to regenerative tourism.Summary
Cultural heritage is, by definition, the contemporary use, interpretation, and valuation of both tangible and intangible inheritances from the past. Unsurprisingly, then, cultural heritage is often understood to be a potential point of interest for tourists, and, for many destinations, cultural heritage attributes are often key elements of tourism marketing campaigns. However, there has also been a more recent shift towards the blending of cultural heritage tourism and sustainable development, particularly with a focus on poverty alleviation. To that end, this chapter discusses the integration of these two principles. In particular, the chapter seeks to discuss what the author has found to be key elements of sustainable cultural heritage tourism development, namely the inclusion of both local communities in planning and development processes and the acknowledgement and integration of local identity in relation to local heritage. There is also be a brief presentation of the risks faced by sustainable heritage tourism development, both from external forces as well as from tourism itself. Finally, the chapter concludes with a discussion of the need for a shift from sustainable to regenerative tourism.