Transformations and Sustainability is a peer-reviewed journal disseminating innovative and interdisciplinary research on systemic transformations (change, innovations, and reforms) for sustainable development. Climate action and social justice appear as the focal points of this nexus. The journal seeks to relate economic theory to the discourse on transformations and sustainability. This is an open access journal, which means that all content is freely available without charge to the user or his/her institution. Users are allowed to read, download, copy, distribute, print, search, or link to the full texts of the articles, or use them for any other lawful purpose, without asking prior permission from the publisher or the author. This is in accordance with the BOAI definition of open access. Submit a paper
Centre for Productivity and Sustainability Analysis
Conceptualization of Gendered Energy Ageism
The global transition towards low-carbon energy systems is a fundamental imperative of the twenty-first century, yet it risks deepening existing social inequalities if not managed equitably. While energy poverty and vulnerability have been extensively studied, the intersection of gender and age remains a critical blind spot in energy research and policy. This paper addresses this gap by conceptualizing "gendered energy ageism"—a novel framework that captures the unique structural and social discrimination faced by older women in energy access, affordability, and participation. Employing a theoretical analysis grounded in feminist intersectionality theory and the energy justice framework, the study delineates the economic, technological, policy, and social dimensions of this phenomenon. The proposed conceptual framework illustrates how demographic aging, gender wage gaps, and the digitalization of energy systems act as structural drivers that, through mechanisms of policy neglect and technological exclusion, produce disproportionate energy poverty and marginalization for older women. The paper concludes by outlining significant implications for energy and social policies, advocating for aging-inclusive and gender-sensitive transition strategies, and proposing a future research agenda to empirically measure and address gendered energy ageism.
Copyright (c) 2026 Leonardo Agnusdei (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Rethinking the Economic Importance of Older Adults’ Employment: A Conceptual Framework for Sustainable Labour Market Transformation in Ageing Societies
Population ageing is reshaping labour markets, pension systems, and the fiscal sustainability of contemporary welfare states. Contemporary research increasingly recognises old age as a socially constructed and functionally differentiated category rather than a self-evident life stage defined solely by chronological age. This shift in perspective calls for a more systemic rethinking of how ageing is conceptualised and addressed in economic and policy analysis. While existing research has examined ageing, retirement, and later-life employment from multiple disciplinary perspectives, it remains fragmented and lacks an integrated analytical structure. This paper addresses this gap by developing a conceptual framework that links demographic ageing, institutional settings, individual capacities, and labour market participation patterns with multidimensional sustainability outcomes. The framework conceptualises later-life employment as a heterogeneous and dynamic process shaped by structural drivers, reframing mechanisms, and enabling or constraining conditions. By doing so, it advances the literature by explaining how older adults’ labour market participation contributes not only to labour supply and economic growth, but also to productivity, knowledge retention, social inclusion, and the long-term sustainability of welfare systems. The paper further outlines a research agenda for empirically testing the proposed relationships using advanced econometric approaches capable of capturing heterogeneity, non-linearity, and causal dynamics.
Copyright (c) 2026 Neringa Ramanauskė, Karina Muliuolytė (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Balancing profitability and adaptability at the global and local levels: The future strategies for the European wine sector
The European Union dominates global wine exports and production. The EU’s wine sector is primarily supported by the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and Geographical Indications systems (GIs). On an international point of view, the sector is experiencing remarkable economic repercussions due to US tariffs. In order to overcome the identified challenges, it is crucial for wineries to implement a tailored sales distribution strategy, particularly for small wineries. The distribution landscape for small wineries is characterized by limited resources, diverse channel options and rapidly changing market conditions, making the selection of an optimal mix both complex and critical for profitability and resilience. This study formulates the choice of distribution strategy as a multi criteria decision making (MCDM) problem and introduces a hybrid framework that combines the Best–Worst Method (BWM) for deriving consistent criterion weights with the novel Axial Distance based Aggregated Measurement (ADAM) technique for robust alternative ranking. Seven evaluation criteria, economic profitability, resource availability, implementation feasibility, strategic alignment, market opportunity, competitive advantage, and flexibility, are applied to five distribution strategies: direct sales; online and social media channels; local partnerships; distributor partnerships; and participation in festivals and events. Expert assessments generate the decision matrix and weight vectors, yielding a final ranking that places local partnerships highest, followed by direct sales, online channels, distributor partnerships, and festivals. The results demonstrate the value of community-based collaborations and experiential marketing, while the hybrid MCDM approach offers a transparent, adaptable tool for strategic decision-making. Limitations linked to expert subjectivity and criterion scope are discussed, and avenues for incorporating sustainability and dynamic updates are outlined.
Axial Distance based Aggregated Measurement (ADAM)
Copyright (c) 2026 Mladen Krstić, Snežana Tadić, Donatella Porrini, Daniele Congedi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Psychological safety as a cross-level mechanism linking trauma-informed leadership and employee well-being in post-conflict settings
Post-conflict public institutions operate under sustained psychological strain, where leadership practices focused on compliance and control often struggle to address employees’ accumulated emotional stress. Grounded in Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, which conceptualises stress as chronic resource loss, this study examines how trauma-informed leadership (TIL) is associated with employee wellbeing in post-conflict Nigerian polytechnics through psychological safety, and how organisational culture conditions these relationships. Using a cross-sectional multilevel design, data were collected from 1,131 employees nested within nine public polytechnics in Northeast Nigeria. Multilevel structural equation modelling was employed, with robustness checks across estimation approaches to assess the stability of findings. Results indicate that TIL is positively associated with psychological safety and employee well-being, both directly and indirectly. Psychological safety functions as a theoretically grounded pathway linking leadership practices to well-being. These associations are stronger in supportive organisational cultures characterised by trust, openness, and non-punitive norms, reflecting a cross-level conditional indirect pattern. The findings highlight the joint importance of leadership practices and organisational culture for sustaining employee well-being in fragile public institutions. This study provides rare multilevel empirical evidence from a post-conflict African public-sector context and extends COR theory by clarifying how leadership and culture jointly relate to the stabilisation of employees’ psychological resources under conditions of extreme institutional strain.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bala Salisu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Internal, external and psychological dimensions of wage evaluation in Lithuania’s cultural sector
The article examines the determinants of wages in the cultural sector in Lithuania by integrating theoretical perspectives and empirical evidence from a quantitative survey of cultural workers. Despite the crucial role of wages in ensuring labour market equilibrium, social justice and economic development, employees in the cultural sector frequently perceive their remuneration as inadequate relative to their competencies, responsibilities and the societal value of cultural work. The study investigates how internal factors (job value, relative employee value and employer’s ability to pay), external factors (labour market conditions, regional wage levels, cost of living, collective agreements and government regulations) and psychological compensation (meaningfulness, self-realisation and creative freedom) influence employees’ wage evaluations. A structured literature analysis and statistical review of national indicators were conducted, followed by a quantitative survey (n = 384), representing cultural sector employees across Lithuania. The findings reveal that internal wage determinants remain the strongest predictors of perceived fairness, whereas external determinants vary depending on socio-demographic variables such as wage level, education and occupational status. Notably, psychological compensation demonstrates significant associations with both subjective wellbeing and financial satisfaction. The results highlight systemic challenges in wage formation, including limited budgetary resources, weak collective bargaining structures and the prevalence of intrinsic motivation among cultural workers. The study contributes to understanding wage-setting complexities in publicly funded cultural systems and provides evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, cultural institutions and sectoral stakeholders.
Copyright (c) 2026 Eva Zakaraitė (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Motivating sustainability at work: How green pay and rewards influence environmental performance through autonomous motivation
The increasing evidence of climate change and its effects on society call for actions towards sustainable development. One of the instruments for steering sustainable development is the (introduction of) green pay. This paper takes the example of organizations in Karachi, Pakistan, and applied structural equation modelling for exploring the linkages between green compensation and organizational performance. The results suggest that green pay practices are positively associated with sustainable environmental performance. Similarly, autonomous motivations mediate the relationship with organizational environmental performance. The research contributes to the green human resources literature in two ways. First, it applies findings from Western and other contexts to Pakistani organizations. Second, we show that autonomous motivations contribute to the relationship among green compensation, benefits, and corporate environmental performance. The results suggested that green recruitment and selection, green training, green pay, and rewards positively affect autonomous motivation, and that autonomous motivation is positively associated with environmental performance. However, green involvement did not support autonomous motivation. The results indicated that autonomous motivation mediated the effects of green recruitment, selection, training, pay and reward, and environmental performance. Still, no mediating impact of autonomy on the relationship between green involvement and ecological performance was confirmed.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rashid Ali, Shahjehan Manthar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Innovative work behaviors in the digital age: The influence of organizational structures and processes
This research aims to examine the relationship between digital infrastructure, digital integration, and digital management and employees' innovative work behavior. Moreover, this research employed knowledge hiding and organizational innovative atmosphere as moderating variables in the direct relationships between digital integration, digital infrastructure, digital management, and the creative work behavior of employees. This research collected data from 239 workers across various small-business electronic companies in Pakistan. To achieve the aim of this research, this study has employed the structural equation modeling. This research has demonstrated a significant association between direct relationships among digital management, digital infrastructure, digital integration, and innovative work behavior among employees. Moreover, the findings confirmed that the relationship between these variables is moderated by knowledge hiding and an organizational climate of innovation. This study examines the impact of digital characteristics, knowledge concealment, and organizational climate on employee creativity in small electronic firms. The findings underscore the importance of digital capabilities, information exchange, and innovative culture in fueling organizational innovation. Leadership and managers can utilize digital technologies and organizational dynamics to enhance innovation and competitiveness in the digital age with these tips.
Copyright (c) 2026 Noor Zahra, Shahjehan Manthar , Rana Salman Anwar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Embodied carbon meets payback: Stakeholder-driven MCDM for selecting renovation scenarios
Ambitious European building sector’s decarbonization goals require significant increase in renovation rates, yet the success of these initiatives relies on aligning technical goals with stakeholder priorities. This study offers a novel perspective by quantitatively comparing how building owners and experts prioritize renovation outcomes using multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) to shed a light on the potential disagreements and barriers in renovation processes. The work carried out includes an assessment of building owners and experts’ perception using pairwise comparisons through the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to determine the relative significance of each criterion to evaluate renovation scenarios via Simple Additive Weighting (SAW) and Multiplicative Exponential Weighting (MEW) methods. Five key criteria (i) improvement lifespan, (ii) payback period, (iii) operational energy demand, (iv) energy saved, and (v) global warming potential (embodied carbon), were defined to capture a holistic performance of renovation alternatives. The results showed a strong disagreement between building owners and experts in prioritising renovation criteria. However, application of MCDM methods allowed to assess and select alternative which provides a matching point for stakeholders. These findings contribute to the field of sustainable architecture and civil engineering by highlighting the importance of stakeholder-inclusive MCDM approaches, thereby enhancing the adoption of deep energy retrofits in line with European Green Deal targets.
Copyright (c) 2025 Paulius Spūdys, Deimantė Jarmalavičiūtė, Eglė Klumbytė (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Rethinking protein futures: A conceptual framework for consumer attitude, subjective norms, sustainable eating psychology and culture
This conceptual study proposes an integrated framework linking consumer attitude, subjective norms, and sustainable eating psychology to explain acceptance of alternative proteins. Building on the Theory of Planned Behavior, it highlights how cognitive, emotional, and cultural factors jointly shape sustainable food choices. The model argues that social influence, moral identity, and environmental values interact to determine consumers’ openness toward novel protein sources. By synthesizing insights from sustainability, psychology, and food behavior research, the framework extends understanding beyond traditional behavioral prediction models. The study contributes theoretically by offering a holistic lens for future empirical research and practical strategies to promote sustainable protein adoption.
Copyright (c) 2025 Elzė Rudienė, Gustė Skrickaitė, Patricija Jašinskaitė (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Efficiency of sustainability communication tools
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly popular topic in the context of modern consumption. This encourages businesses to take various measures to spread the message about sustainable production of goods and provision of services. However, not all sustainability communication tools are efficient. This study analyses the efficiency of sustainability communication channels and their impact on consumers. The theoretical part emphasized that sustainability communication is an integral part of corporate social responsibility, helping to strengthen reputation, develop consumer loyalty and promote sustainable development of society. The results of the study, as well as the analysis of other sources, revealed that the most commonly observed sustainability communication tools are information found on social networks, websites and product packaging. They most efficiently perform an information function and influence consumers. Empirical data also showed that a significant proportion of consumers evaluate sustainability communication sceptically and are not convinced by the sincerity of companies in this sphere. However, this does not deny the fact that sustainability communication channels in Lithuania operate efficiently, but such efficiency depends on the ability of companies to communicate transparently and consistently, in a form that is attractive to consumers.
Copyright (c) 2025 Eglė Jaraitė, Asta Mikalauskienė (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
From Jevons to Khazzoom-Brookes: Why energy efficiency alone won’t lead to sustainability
Energy efficiency is extensively advocated as a fundamental sustainability strategy; nevertheless, historical and empirical evidence indicates that improvements in efficiency frequently result in heightened energy use instead of absolute reductions. The Jevons Paradox, further elaborated as the Khazzoom-Brookes Postulate, manifests when reduced energy expenses lead to increased consumption across individual, industrial, and macroeconomic levels. Rebound effects occur in transportation, manufacturing, and digital technologies, where improvements in efficiency often lead to increased overall energy consumption. This analysis investigates the extent to which these dynamics apply to the renewable energy transition, wherein efficiency improvements in solar, wind, and battery storage frequently result in heightened power demand instead of equivalent fossil fuel displacement.
Copyright (c) 2025 Darius Karaša, Ignas Mikalauskas (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Multicultural coach-athlete relationships and athlete outcomes: A longitudinal study of sustainable performance, satisfaction, and innovation
This longitudinal study examines the characteristics of expatriate coaches, athlete outcomes, Leader-Member Exchange (LMX), and perceived safety climate in multicultural sports. The study examines these dynamics to gain a deeper understanding of athlete-coach relationships and their impact on athlete satisfaction, performance, and innovation. Local Malaysian athletes and expatriate coaches in Malaysian sports centers provided six-month longitudinal data. Structural Equation Modelling was applied on 78 participants. Expat coach qualities, athlete outcomes, and LMX's moderating role in perceived safety climate are significantly correlated. Positive athlete-coach interactions and supportive coaching environments have been shown to improve athlete satisfaction, performance, and innovation. This study reveals the complex dynamics of athlete-coach relationships and highlights the significance of interpersonal and organizational climate in influencing athlete performance. For coaches, athletes, sports organizations, and governments, multicultural sports contexts necessitate relationship-building strategies and supportive coaching environments to foster athlete growth and success.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rana Salman Anwar, Muhammad Sajjad Khan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The role of CSR in achieving energy sustainability
The transition toward energy sustainability requires accountability and transparency within operations communication processes, particularly for high-emission industries such as the energy industry. The implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) provides guidance for the energy companies to align their operations with societal and environmental goals. This study explores the role of CSR in achieving energy sustainability by developing a theoretical model that categorizes CSR mechanisms into three key dimensions: international frameworks and reporting standards, independent certifications, and stakeholder engagement mechanisms. Based on a qualitative literature review, the paper examines how these mechanisms influence corporate accountability, transparency, and sustainability performance. The findings show that while CSR tools can support energy transition goals, challenges such as voluntary adoption, inconsistent stakeholder involvement, and risks of greenwashing remain significant. The paper enhances CSR research by offering a structured model that integrates different tools and frameworks and highlights the operational role of CSR together with the ethical one in the energy sector.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mariam Kasradze, Dalia Streimikiene (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The impact of big data-artificial intelligence on sustainable performance considering the mediating role of green supply chain practices
The objective of this research is to explore the influence of big data artificial intelligence (AI) on sustainable performance, taking into account the mediating effect of green supply chain management (GSCM) practices. This research is quantitative and descriptive in nature, as it delineates the characteristics of the variables involved. Additionally, this study is correlational since it investigates the interrelations among the variables. A sample of 80 employees was examined through a standard questionnaire. The data gathered were analyzed employing the structural equation modeling (SEM) technique along with its associated software, partial least squares (PLS). The findings of this research revealed that GSCM practices serve as a mediator in the relationship between big data-AI and sustainable performance. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that big data-AI significantly influences GSCM practices, and they also corroborated our hypothesis that both big data-AI and GSCM practices exert a significant effect on sustainable performance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Elham Dashti, Reza Rostamzadeh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
From treaty abuse to tax integrity and sustainability: Swiss practices under OECD BEPS Action 6
The sustainability of tax systems has emerged as a pressing challenge in the era of economic globalization and digitalization, where gaps in traditional tax rules facilitated Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS). This article examines the relevance and impact of the OECD’s BEPS Action 6, with a focus on Switzerland’s implementation and practice. The research objective is to assess how Action 6 strengthens legal coherence, enhances economic substance requirements, and curbs treaty abuse, including treaty shopping. Using a doctrinal legal analysis of OECD instruments, Swiss legislative measures, and relevant case law, this study identifies practical trends in beneficial ownership tests, anti-abuse rules, and substance-based treaty entitlement. The findings indicate that Switzerland has integrated Action 6 standards through targeted treaty amendments and administrative practice, improving the alignment between taxation and genuine economic activity.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ruta Savignac (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The impact of digital supply chain transformations and smart technologies on manufacturing productivity: A resource-based view
The current research study examines the role of digital supply chains and the associated smart technologies in enhancing productivity performance in the manufacturing industry. Thus, the current research study aimed to explore the effects of digital supply chain transformations, supply chain traceability, and supply chain transparency, as well as the impact of smart technologies on firm performance, with a focus on the mediating effects of supply chain visibility. The current research conceptual model incorporates the independent variables of digital supply chain transformation, supply chain visibility, supply chain transparency, AI, and smart technologies, with the dependent variables including productivity performance. The data were collected from respondents with knowledge of supply chain management, using a convenience sampling technique to gather the data. Due to the limited information available regarding digital supply chain innovation in supply chain operations, the current research study examines the factors of supply chain visibility, supply chain transparency, and supply chain traceability and how these factors affect operational performance. To test hypotheses and achieve study goals, the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory was combined with quantitative research methods. The findings revealed that digital supply chain transformations and smart technologies are positively associated with relationship performance, underscoring the importance for manufacturing organizations to integrate smart technology into their supply chains to enhance operational performance.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rashid Ali, Fouzia Nasir (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Integration of social responsibility in Lithuanian banks’ sustainability reports under the EU taxonomy framework
In recent years, the EU Taxonomy has become a pivotal regulatory framework, aiming to direct financial flows towards environmentally and socially sustainable activities. This paper examines how Lithuanian banks integrate the social responsibility (S) dimension within the EU Taxonomy framework, focusing on disclosures in their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) or Sustainability reports. Using qualitative content analysis, the study reviews the 2023 reports of Artea, Citadele and Swedbank to evaluate the clarity and depth of social disclosures and their explicit links to EU Taxonomy requirements. Findings reveal that although banks acknowledge the significance of aligning with EU sustainability principles, the social dimension remains underdeveloped in Taxonomy-related sections. These results highlight the importance of systematically integrating social and environmental dimensions and ensuring that social responsibility data is both quantitative and verifiable. The study concludes that while there is progress in social responsibility reporting in Lithuanian banks, further efforts are needed to align fully with EU Taxonomy standards and enhance data-driven reporting practices. The paper contributes to ongoing discussions on strengthening CSR practices in the Lithuanian banking sector, highlighting current challenges and opportunities for improvement.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dovilė Kudirkaitė (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The role of social media influencers in transforming consumer perceptions and purchase intentions
The concept of social media marketing in the digital era holds greater value in gaining a deeper understanding of consumer behavior. Additionally, in the era of modern technology, the concept and tool of digital marketing have been of significance importance in social media influencer marketing and change consumer perceptions or the shape of consumers' perception regarding any product, brand, or service with the help of video, images, or any others meaningful updates on the platform of social media. Thus, in the modern digital era, influencer marketing holds greater significance on social media platforms. The current research study examined various elements related to social media influencer marketing and its impact on consumer purchase decisions, with a focus on the mediating effects of consumer attitudes in the Pakistani context. The study employed questionnaire-based methods for data collection and analysis. The current research study used quantitative methods to investigate social media influencer marketing, with a focus on the mediating effect of consumer attitude on consumer purchase intention. The era of digital marketing tools integrated with social media influencer marketing, where social media influencers are individuals, has altered the way consumers perceive products through social media platforms. Through non-probability convenience sampling, aided by a physical questionnaire and a Google Form link shared with respondents who use social media, the current research study employed structural equation modeling. The results suggested that Trustworthiness, Attractiveness, Expertise, and Meaning have a positive association with the consumer attitude, and the consumer attitude has a positive association with consumer purchase intention. However, the results found that consumer attitudes have not supported the Celebrity product match-up. Further mediating effects demonstrate that the celebrity product match-up and consumer purchase intention did not mediate the relationship between consumer attitude and the celebrity product match-up.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rashid Ali, Fouzia Nasir, Sheema Haider (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Performance evaluation of exchange-traded funds in the US
This study investigates the performance of the largest U.S.-domiciled exchange-traded funds (ETFs) focused on large-cap equities by assets under management (AUM), covering the period from 2010 to 2024. ETFs play a central role in modern investing, offering low-cost, diversified, and liquid access to broad market exposures. While previous research has examined various ETF categories, this paper concentrates on the core group of top equity ETFs that dominate investor portfolios. Using a set of well-established performance metrics—total return, average annual return, standard deviation, alpha, beta, Sharpe ratio, and Treynor ratio—the analysis assesses both absolute and risk-adjusted performance across eight ETFs. The results reveal notable differences in return generation and risk efficiency, even among funds with similar investment styles. Growth-oriented ETFs generally delivered higher returns but also exhibited greater volatility, while more conservative or value-focused ETFs showed mixed outcomes. The ranking model applied in this study helps clarify which ETFs achieved superior overall performance based on a balanced evaluation of return and risk. The findings highlight the importance of multi-metric analysis when selecting ETFs for long-term investment strategies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Arūnas Mockus (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Mediation of supply chain operations on the relationship between lean manufacturing and sustainability
The objective of the current research study was to examine the mediating effects of supply chain operations on the associations of lean manufacturing and firm performance in manufacturing companies in Pakistan. The research study was based on quantitative research methods to investigate the associations of the exogenous and endogenous variables with the mediating factors of the supply chain operations. The current research study was applied to analyze the developed hypotheses through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The lean manufacturing approach is positively associated with the operations of supply chain management, and the current research study provides significance greater understanding, and better relationships between the lean manufacturing approach and the operations of supply chain management in the manufacturing industry in Pakistan. The results indicate that the independent variables of quick setups, uniform production level, quality control level, and supplier networks are positively associated with lead time reduction, inventory minimization, and productivity. However, the supplier networks are not positively associated with lead time reduction or inventory minimization. The supplier networks are positively associated with productivity, cost reduction, lead time, positive impact on firm performance, and inventory minimization positively related to firm performance. Productivity has a positive effect on firm performance. The results indicate that productivity mediates the relationships of quick setups, uniform production levels, supplier networks, and firm performance. The results suggest that cost reduction mediates the associations of the factors of quick setups, uniform production level, quality control, and supplier networks with the firm performance. However, the Inventory minimization mediates the relationship between the supplier networks and the firm performance not supported. The Lead time reduction mediates the relationship between the supplier networks and the firm performance, but it does not mediate.
Blockchain-enabled circular economy: Rethinking waste management in global manufacturing
The transition toward a circular economy (CE) in global manufacturing is hindered by challenges such as limited traceability, fragmented waste flows, and lack of compliance enforcement. Blockchain technology, with its capabilities in transparency, immutability, and decentralization, presents a promising solution to address these gaps. This study develops a decision-oriented framework to evaluate blockchain-enabled strategies for circular waste management. Drawing on expert insights collected through a Delphi process and applying the Best-Worst Method (BWM) and TOPSIS, the research prioritizes strategic alternatives based on key criteria including traceability, regulatory compliance, and ease of integration. The results reveal that material traceability platforms and smart contracts for reverse logistics are the most viable blockchain applications for enhancing circularity. A case study in the electronics sector and sensitivity analysis further validate the robustness and applicability of the findings. This research contributes to both theory and practice by offering a structured, replicable model for aligning blockchain adoption with sustainable manufacturing goals.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ahmad Bathaei, Bahador Bahramimianrood, Siti Rahmah Awang (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Sustainable business models in the digital transformation of higher education: Evidence from Ukraine
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the integration of sustainable business models (SBMs) into Ukraine’s digital educational framework. Based on a unique empirical study of teachers, graduate students and undergraduates, it evaluates their awareness of, perception of, and readiness for the implementation of SBMs. The findings reveal several barriers to progress, most notably low digital engagement and limited familiarity with modern tools. Statistical analysis emphasises the urgent need to enhance digital competencies throughout the educational community. In response, the authors propose a practical model for integrating sustainability principles with modern technologies, such as AI and blockchain, into the curriculum. The study categorises key challenges into three groups: technological (poor infrastructure); educational (outdated curricula); and organisational (lack of coordination). Respondents ranked technological issues as the most pressing. The research offers practical guidance for policymakers, advocating interdisciplinary courses and closer collaboration with the IT sector. Ultimately, the study stresses that digital transformation in education requires not only technical upgrades, but also a shift in mindset among all stakeholders.
Copyright (c) 2025 Olena Strapchuk, Michalis Koniordos, Svitlana Strapchuk, Vitalii Nitsenko (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
From energy islands to EU grid: Baltic progress through the lens of the Energy Trilemma Index during 2000–2023
The article analyses how Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia’s positions on the Energy Trilemma Index (ETI), which assesses the national-level progress in three areas - energy security, energy justice and environmental sustainability - have evolved over the period 2000-2023. With reference to World Energy Council data, the paper provides a detailed analysis of the dynamics and challenges of the ETI components in the three Baltic States. The results show that Estonia has made the most progress during the period under review and is now among the top ten in the world in terms of ETI. In the meantime, Lithuania and Latvia have also significantly improved their position but face specific challenges such as high levels of energy imports or energy access problems. The study also discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the ETI methodology.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tomas Karpavicius, Tomas Balezentis (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Developing a tailored sustainable supply chain framework for dairy SMEs in Lithuania using Best-Worst Method
Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) plays a vital role in addressing environmental, economic, and social challenges within resource-intensive industries such as dairy production. Despite growing global interest in sustainability, the Baltic region—particularly Lithuania—remains underexplored in terms of localized SSCM frameworks. This study aims to fill this gap by identifying and prioritizing sustainability indicators relevant to Lithuanian dairy companies, using the Best-Worst Method (BWM), a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach. A total of 15 experts from top-level management positions in the Lithuanian dairy sector were engaged to assess key indicators across three dimensions: environmental, economic, and social. The results reveal that GHG Emissions, Cost Efficiency, and Labor Rights & Fair Conditions are the most critical indicators in their respective dimensions, reflecting both global sustainability priorities and local industry needs. The model also emphasizes the importance of renewable energy, return on investment, and health and safety standards. A sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the BWM results by illustrating how small changes in the top-ranked indicators affect the prioritization of other factors. The study offers a practical decision-support tool for managers and policymakers, providing a clear framework for targeted sustainability strategies in the Lithuanian dairy sector. It also contributes to the academic literature by demonstrating the effectiveness of BWM in regional agri-food supply chains. Recommendations are provided for government support, and future research directions are suggested to expand stakeholder involvement and apply hybrid MCDM models.
Copyright (c) 2025 Irena Krisciukaitiene, Ahmad Bathaei (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Comparative assessment of circular economy performance in the Baltic States using MCDM methods
Implementation and progress towards circularity are widely recognized characteristics of CE transitions across Europe, and the transition to CE sits firmly at the core of the European Union’s sustainable development strategy. Using a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach, this study conducts a comparative evaluation of CE performance in the three Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania). Based on Eurostat data, three related indicators were chosen to represent the multidimensional nature of circularity: waste generation per capita (non-beneficial), recycling rate of municipal waste, and circular material use rate (both beneficial). The indicators were analyzed over multiple years (2010–2023) to capture temporal dynamics and shifts in the national performance. The was used to order the countries by normalizing such indicators from the chosen years and assigning them equal weight. The outcome shows that, in fact, Estonia is better off than its neighbors in two out of three aspects, and that its waste per capita and materials usage per capita is significantly improving. Latvia performs best in recycling but least well in material circularity and waste minimisation. Lithuania does consistently okay, moderate performance across the board. This study adds to CE literature by developing a replicable, dynamic framework for national CE evaluation. It provides empirical evidence about regional divides operating within a common EU policy framework; and a methodological framework for more fine-grained, empirical evidence-based policy action. The findings contribute to debate for scholars and practitioners on how to benchmark and improve CE implementation in small-state contexts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Justas Streimikis (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Evaluating and ranking quality education for sustainable development in the Baltic States: A multi-criteria decision-making approach using Eurostat data
Achieving quality education is a fundamental pillar of sustainable development, as outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). This study evaluates and ranks the performance of the Baltic States Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania regarding their progress toward quality education in the context of sustainability. Drawing on seven key Eurostat indicators, the research applies the Complex Proportional Assessment (COPRAS) method, a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) approach, to construct a composite index for each country. The selected indicators encompass various dimensions of education, including early school leaving, tertiary educational attainment, early childhood participation, low academic achievement, adult learning, and digital skills. The results show that Lithuania ranks highest overall, particularly excelling in formal education indicators such as tertiary attainment and early childhood education. Estonia demonstrates strong performance in digital literacy, adult participation in learning, and minimizing academic underachievement. Latvia shows moderate performance across most dimensions but requires more targeted policy efforts in digital and lifelong learning domains. The study fills a critical gap in the literature by providing a data-driven, comparative evaluation of education sustainability in the Baltic region. It offers practical insights for policymakers to enhance educational strategies and align national systems with the broader goals of sustainable development. Future research could expand this framework to other EU regions or incorporate qualitative metrics for a more comprehensive assessment.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dalia Streimikiene, Ahmad Bathaei (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Economic and environmental factors determining carbon dioxide emissions in Lithuania
Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions are a key factor in climate change, closely linked to economic growth and energy consumption. This study examines the relationship between CO₂ emissions, GDP per capita, and renewable energy consumption in Lithuania from 2005 to 2023. The results indicate that renewable energy use has increased over the past two decades, while GDP has grown, except during periods of economic downturn. The econometric analysis reveals that GDP per capita significantly increases CO₂ emissions, whereas renewable energy consumption reduces them. The regression model explains 81.2% of the variation in emissions. These findings suggest that while economic growth contributes to higher emissions, investments in sustainable energy sources are an effective way to mitigate environmental impact. The study highlights the need for Lithuania to continue its transition to clean energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimize environmental harm. The research results emphasize that to reduce CO₂ emissions in Lithuania, it is necessary not only to increase the use of renewable energy but also to ensure effective environmental policies. Government intervention, such as subsidies for green energy or the regulation of pollution taxes, can be effective instruments in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Gintarė Barišauskaitė, Asta Mikalauskienė (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0