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This paper presents the framework of an intensive programme (IP) organised by UNESCO and addressed to young graduate professionals to prepare them for a career in fields related to sustainability. The aims of the IP were to address participants' environmental awareness and to develop attitudes and skills related to environmental planning and management. This paper focuses on the methodological aspects of the educational activities and on the setting in which the activities were delivered. Teaching methods based on a learner-centred approach were used in the training. During the activities, 17 participants were provided the opportunity to experience various aspects of environmental integration and sustainability principles in key sectors of planning procedures in the Lonjsko Polje Nature Park (Croatia). The activities were evaluated using quantitative and qualitative tools such as the environmental education questionnaire, the training quality and involvement questionnaire and two focus groups with participants. The results showed the relevance of the setting and the methods applied to develop environmental awareness and skills related to managing sustainability issues. Implications for future research about educational programmes based on the development of sustainability principles are discussed.

This paper explores social responsibility training as part of university educational programmes. The authors compare French and Bulgarian students' perceptions of various elements of social responsibility and how social responsibility is approached in universities' curricula. Bulgarian students see social responsibility more often in terms of volunteer work, charitable activities and career opportunities, while French students associate it with environmental aspects. The only statistically significant gender difference in Bulgaria emerged in linking improving working conditions with social responsibility. French students placed stronger emphasis on business and the possible practical applications of social responsibility training offered by universities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transformation to green sectors of the economy in Bulgaria leads after it the need of new type of professions, which would be capable to cope with the new conditions and requirements which different businesses are facing. The knowledge of creation of green jobs in Bulgaria is insufficient, which makes this paper state of art. Green jobs in Bulgaria are connected with transfer of business activities to green ones. The paper analyzes and evaluates the current conditions of creation of green jobs in Bulgaria. It is proposed analysis of the requirements in Bulgaria about the eligible criteria to apply for funding under the measurement of green jobs; based on research SWOT analysis of creation of green jobs. The results are systematized in findings, conclusions and policy recommendations, as changing conditions of applying to measurement, payment connected to employees, and etc. As well is proposed cooperation between other existing measurements for reaching sustainable employment in Bulgaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Information Society / Információs Társadalom (InfTars) is the property of Infonia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The paper examines physical and chemical properties in reclaimed soils result of restoration practices took place in the surface mining industry in the region of the "Mini Maritsa Iztok", Stara Zagora district in Southern Bulgaria. In brown-coal surface mining, the overburden (the earth and rock sediments lying above the coal seam) is first removed, and the exposed brown-coal (lignite) is then extracted. Priority task for post mining operations is the environmental protection aiming at the sustainable development, restoration and improvement of the environmental conditions. To fulfill this aim, a systematic survey as well sampling was done of overburden terrains including two soil profiles and three additional surface sites in a stand of Robinia pseudoacacia. Samples were analyzed for particle size distribution, content and composition of organic substances, cation excange capacity, soil bulk density, soil moisture content at field sampling, soil particle density, porosity and soil moisture content at different matric potentials. In reclaimed soils the different sized mineral mechanical elements are inherited during the technical activities of excavated materials. The organic matter in the investigated reclaimed soils was not directly dependent on the local environmental conditions but was result of technology of reclamation of landscape. The studied reclaimed soils under Robinia pseudoacacia contain an amount of ancient organic substances that cannot be decomposed, due to the nature of stable carbon. Despite the high content of organic substances, soil particle density was identified also as high particularly in the profile 1 at the depth 68-97 cm. This specific feature related to the physical properties of reclaimed soils is probably due to the presence of brown-coal particles involved in the mixed mineral materials have deposited in the East Dump Site. The manifold relationship of bulk density and organic matter, total porosity, gravimetric water content and hygroscopic water content was faint and irregular. The intrinsic peculiarity of high mobility of organic substances was identified and the specific relationship within different fractions of extractable organic carbon. Probably the relationship with bulk density is not clearly expressed in case of labile organic matter not bound to the soil mineral part where content of extractable carbon was extremely very high. Humic acids by their molecular weight and structure are very similar to those of fulvic acids being low molecular and with predominance of aliphatic over aromatic moieties in their molecules. Soil pH (H2O) was diverse from acidic to neutral. Soil adsorbent was affected by acidification so there was evidence of initial destructive processes of the soil adsorption complex. Reclaimed soils were characterized by relatively high degree of saturation with bases (67-82%) in profile 1 and very high saturation (81-95%) in profile 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines the impact of subsidies on agricultural holdings of different economic sizes in Bulgaria for the period 2014-2020. The objective is to dissect the dispersion and repercussions of these subsidies on the gross and net earnings of these enterprises. The research is rooted in a thorough exploration of existing literature and utilizes a spectrum of analytical techniques, including comparative analysis, regression analysis, and fixed effects models. The findings underscore the substantial role of subsidies in shaping the revenue of Bulgarian agricultural producers. This validates the primary hypothesis that subsidies bolster the financial health of enterprises and foster the resilience of the agricultural sector overall. Nonetheless, it's crucial to note that the magnitude and efficacy of the subsidies' impact fluctuate based on the economic scale of the enterprises. This underscores the need for a differentiated approach in determining subsidy policies, taking into account the specific needs of different groups of agricultural producers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The entry and use of digital services is becoming more and more an invariable process in front of the perspectives and development of the Agriculture sector.This paper examines data for the state and use of digital agriculture market in demand side. The study presents readiness for using of digital services among the agricultural producers, the municipalities and sup-pliers. The paper presents results from the surveys carry out in the frame of the project “Theoretical models for digital agricultural development” – DIAGRO, financed by the National Fund for Scientific Research, Bulgaria. Integrating digital technologies can increase the efficiency of agriculture. Many more actors can get involved in shared platforms and in virtual/cloud services. The research results show quite large differences both in the use of digital services among farmers in different regions in Bulgaria. There is a lack of knowledge about the opportunities that digital services provide for sustainable rural development. As a result from there are several recommendations which can stimulate and impose on the process of digitalisation in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Demand for cost-effective and environmental friendly building solutions as well as the continued implementation of eco-innovation in construction sector leads to an increase of research interest in passive house. The aim of the paper is to assess the benefits of passive house in Bulgaria which influence on environment, economy and society. On this basis are made general conclusions and recommendations related to benefits of passive house for achieving sustainable housing, their assessment for economy, society and environment and evaluation of factors for increasing the benefits of passive house. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in agricultural sector policies are crucial to reach successful rural development in Bulgaria. Scientific and practical interests are the main factors which lead to changes in the sector by using best practices in the regions. The main aim of the paper is to evaluate the best practices and lessons for reaching sustainability in the rural areas in Bulgaria. Rural development and funds should comply with appropriate best practices for sustainability. In the first part of the paper are analyzed theories about sustainability in rural areas, connected with best practices. The paper also includes evaluation of main factors which affect rural development in Bulgaria. Assessment of factors influencing rural development is very important to target resources to overcome the negative impacts and enhance positive effects of some of the factors for sustainable development. On this base general conclusions are proposed for using best practices for sustainability. The paper is based on results from research conducted by experts in the field of agricultural policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines self-provisioning and homemade food practices as examples of socially inclusive forms of sustainability that have potential to contribute to the principles of food justice. While homemade food practices in Bulgaria resemble the philosophies of transnational alternative food movements such as Slow Food and the organics, these should not be viewed as a purposeful challenge to increasingly industrialised globalised markets. Rather, I suggest that homemade food in Bulgaria is an alternative to alternative food through its “quiet opposition” to neoliberal policies and post-socialist reforms, perceived as unjust by the majority of Bulgarian citizens. Moral support for elderly people and village dwellers, suffering most from discriminatory policies, growing economic inequalities and widening food gaps, is expressed through preferences for the natural taste of homemade foods circulated through informal networks. Whilst the transformative potential of self-provisioning practices as more democratic and socially inclusive forms of sustainability exists, however, it is also important to address the most serious threats to achieving food justice in Bulgaria: growing polarisation between villagers and urban-based policy makers, lack of recognition and stimuli for subsistence farming, and deprivation of access to space and resources for farming and food growing. Through an empirical focus on yogurt this paper demonstrates that food justice issues in Bulgaria do not just relate to the food sustainability in terms of human rights, “fairer” relations of production, environmental conservation and animal well-being, but also to the sustainability of families, communities, national traditions and identities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The natural and climatic conditions in Bulgaria are a prerequisite for the cultivation of quality fruits with unique taste characteristics, but after the country's accession to the EU, there is a permanent tendency to decrease the areas on which fruit crops are grown. The consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables in developed and developing countries is far below the recommended norms, and yet production in the country cannot satisfy the needs of the population with fresh fruits and the canning industry with raw materials. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the characteristics of the fruit market in Bulgaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All strategic documents related to the development of agriculture and its sustainable management in Bulgaria focus on the primary role of the human factor, with priorities aimed at stimulating generational renewal and transferring of experience and skills, leading to the success of agricultural holdings. However, the trend related to the advanced age of most agricultural producers and the lack of sufficiently educated and competent entrepreneurs to use the advantages of technology in agricultural production stands out as a problem. The aim of our research concerns the study and generalisation of main trends in this regard in Bulgarian agricultural holdings, emphasising the importance of several main factors for sustainability and their interrelationship, namely: family - non-family workforce, gender, age and education of farmers. The age and education of people working in agriculture are significant factors in the success and sustainability of the sector. By promoting education and training and bringing the next generation of agricultural entrepreneurs into the agricultural sector, agriculture ensures its continued success and growth. The combination of age and education also contributes to the development of specific skills and knowledge in agribusiness. Research methods used in the study include: general scientific research methods, summary and synthesis, logical method, tabular and graphical presentation of characteristics and trends. The analysis is based on empirical evidence - observation, interview, case studies from the practical activity of agricultural holdings and shared experience from producers. The results of the research can be systematised in several directions: influence of the family - non-family workforce factor on the management process; importance of the gender of the employed in the agricultural sector; age ratio and its benefits; awareness of the need for appropriate education and training of farmers. In conclusion, the summarised studies create an idea of trends in the Bulgarian agricultural sector regarding the importance of human factor and outline future directions for research in the field of human resources in modern agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetable production has always been a specific sector of agricultural production. It is characterized by the possibility of growing a wide range of cultivated plant species, many of which are of important significance for the economic contribution of the plant production sub-sector not only to the agriculture, but also to the national economy. The social and economic changes that followed after 1990 have had a catastrophic impact on vegetable production in Bulgaria. What was known as large-scale specialized vegetable production has become multiassortment, small-scale, low-performance and precarious production. Bulgaria has lost its strong position as a traditional vegetable producer and exporter. A major challenge facing Bulgarian vegetable production is its modernization - it would help increase the production competitiveness so that the vegetable products meet the current quality requirements and compete with the imported vegetables. The purpose of this article is to analyze the challenges and trends in the development of Bulgarian vegetable production which is characterized by great intensity related to the context of the Common agricultural policy with a view to enhancing its competitiveness and sustainable development. For the purposes of the research different information sources have been used - scientific journals, publications by Bulgarian authors, as well as the author's own research. Based on the analysis of vegetable production in Bulgaria and the economic results obtained from the production of the main vegetable crops grown we can draw the following conclusions: The land productivity in Bulgaria regarding field vegetable production is low despite the favorable soil and climatic conditions typical of the area; Average yields of the main vegetables grown in Bulgaria are lower than their potential biological productivity; Enhancing the national support for the vegetable production sector; A major challenge facing Bulgarian vegetable production is its modernization - it would help increase the production competitiveness so that the vegetable products meet the current quality requirements and compete with the imported vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of social entrepreneurship is relatively new, both as a theory and as a practice, and is entirely determined by the economic and cultural challenges in Bulgaria. The promotion of innovative ideas in public policy plays a crucial role in supporting the values of an active-oriented problem-solving social system. These views are fundamental to the ongoing social reforms in Bulgaria and focus on the development of social entrepreneurship and policies that support social enterprises. The purpose of this article is to explore and identify the challenges and policies for social enterprises and social entrepreneurship in Bulgaria and their sustainable development. This research presents the results of a pilot study held in Bulgaria under the SESBA Project - Social Enterprise Skills for Business advisors. The field studies were carried out on the basis of primary and secondary data. The collection of the primary data included a questionnaire survey to collect information by using a face-to-face interview. The secondary data were extracted from official data, reports and official websites, etc. The challenges for Bulgaria regarding the development of social enterprises can be formulated as follows: need for sectoral reforms, opportunities for capacity building, opportunities for startup funding available and prioritizing a target group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The industrial revolution and economic activity have led humanity to unprecedented success in the production and development of technology, but also to a super-consumer society that has managed to consume more of the earth's resources than it is possible to reproduce on its own. We, humans, have changed the earth, the climate, and destroyed species faster than any other species. Bioeconomy is perceived as the innovative answer to the needed fundamental transformation of the production systems to overcome the present lock-in situation. In the recent years the European Union has given unappealable support to greening the economy across the Community. Policies, strategies, financial mechanisms are introducing the green practices and business models in key sectors and economies. A new era of economic revolution follows, in which Bulgaria also needs to take its role. The present paper tackles the emerging challenges and progress in moving towards the sustainability, which requires a fundamental shift in industry, education and science, institutions, and community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyses the evolution and efficiency of agricultural water governance and policies in Bulgaria during the post-communist transition and EU integration. The paper presents the process of transformation of agricultural water governance embracing all mechanisms and modes and assesses the impact of newly evolved system of governance on efficiency and sustainability. Finally, it concludes suggesting a few recommendations for the improvement of public policies and strategies for effective and sustainable agricultural water management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bulgarian pension system consists of three pillars. The first one functions on a payas- you-go principle and is a mandatory one, the second and third pillars are fully funded. The insurance into the second column is compulsory and that into the third one is voluntary. The unfavorable demographic trends in the country have an adverse effect on the pay-as-you-go part of the system. At the same time the minor accumulation of resources into the second and third pillar makes the sustainability of the pension system under question especially in the long term. The current research is trying to put some light on this issue by following the reforms made in the recent years and the tendencies concerning the government decisions on each of the pillars of the pension system. The paper is structured in two parts. The first one focuses on the pay-as-you-go part of the system and the factors that influence its financial health. The second one concentrates on the current problems of the funded component of the pension system and the way it must be strengthened in the long term to effectively support the dominant state pension system. Further reforms are needed to raise the sustainability of the pension system as a social security structure in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecosystem approach has been widely incorporated in management and evaluation of sustainability levels. Despite enormous progress in this new evolving area, still there is no consensus on how to assess the sustainability of agro-ecosystems due to diverse understandings, approaches, methods, employed data, etc. In Bulgaria there are no comprehensive studies on integral and socio-economic and ecological sustainability of agro-ecosystems of different type. This paper makes a flrst attempt to assess sustainability agro-ecosystems in Bulgaria. Initially, a holistic framework for assessing integral, economic, social and ecological sustainability of agro-ecosystems including 17 principles, 35 criteria, and 46 indicators and reference values is suggested. After that overall and aspects sustainability of 7 generic and 10 speciflc agro-ecosystems in Bulgaria is assessed. Estimates are based on flrst-hand information collected by the managers of typical farms operating in different agroecosystems in 4 geographical regions of the country. The study has found out that there is a substantial variation in the level of integral and aspects sustainability of agro-ecosystems of different type as well as in sustainability contribution of various sub-sectors of agriculture and farms of different juridical type and size as individual indicators with the highest and lowest values showing (critical) factors enhancing and deterring sustainability. Results on integral agrarian sustainability level of this study based on the micro agro-ecosystem (farm) data are similar to the previous assessment based on the aggregate sectoral (statistical, etc.) data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Economics & Management / Ikonomika i Upravlenie na Selskoto Stopanstvo is the property of Institute of Agricultural Economics and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Serbian Journal of Management is the property of Serbian Journal of Management and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The rural development policy in Bulgaria is aimed at achieving sustainable development of the economic sectors, as the rural area is a place for development not only for agricultural activities, but also it offers good prospects for economic development on a regional scale, through adequate business support, job creation and tourism development. Therefore, the interconnection and interdependence between the two economic sectors is especially important to find opportunities for the development of alternative tourism with the formation of unique tourism products and the application of environmentally-friendly agricultural practices in order to achieve higher living standards and economic benefits for local communities. The problem is that the current pandemic conditions of last year and this year impose a number of restrictions to a greater or lesser extent on each of the economic sectors. The aim of our research is related to the study of interconnection and interdependence of key economic sectors -- agriculture and tourism in crisis conditions. The research methods used in the study include: basic scientific research methods, questionnaire survey, summary and synthesis, logical method, tabular and graphical presentation of characteristics and trends. The results of the research can be systematized in several directions: analysis of the connections and interdependence of the sectors through the opportunities for creation of unique tourist products and through diversification of the activities in the rural areas. In conclusion, the pandemic inevitably affects the economic sectors, with greater constraints on the tourism business, where the preferences of potential tourists are focused on domestic alternative tourism. In the construction of unique and specific tourist products in rural areas, the relationship agriculture -- tourism is strongly emphasized in terms of requirements for clean and healthy foods, incl. organic food or the purchase of local food products from the region. The diversification of activities in rural areas through the development of tourism provides an opportunity for the development of entrepreneurial initiatives. The strong connection and interdependence between the economic subjects in the indicated economic branches of key importance is fully manifested in a good combination of the interests of all participants concerned in the process of development of the specific territory/region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The issue of assessment of sustainability of agricultural farms as a whole and of different types is among the most topical for researchers, farmers, investors, administrators, politicians, interests groups and public at large. In Bulgaria, there are no assessments on sustainability level farming structures in conditions of European Union Common Agricultural Policy implementation. This paper applies a holistic framework and assesses the sustainability of Bulgarian farms as a whole and of different juridical types, sizes, production specialization, and ecological and geographical location. Initially, the method of the study is outlined and overall characteristics of surveyed holdings are presented. After that, an assessment is made of integral, governance, economic, social, environmental sustainability of farms in general and of different types and location. Next, the structure of farms with different sustainability levels is analyzed. Finally, the factors for improving the sustainability of Bulgarian farms are identified, and directions for further research and amelioration of farm management and public intervention in the sector are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the priorities of sustainable development in the context of assurance food quality and safety and rural development, the paper underlines the importance of agri-food sector and the elaboration and the implementation of new methods and instruments in management of small and medium agricultural holdings. The study addresses organic production as an overall systematic approach having a great potential for assuring sustainable growth in rural areas, and it is discussed in terms of the opportunities provided by alternative food networks, and community supported agriculture in particular. The study presented reveals the most important questions in the development of community supported agriculture (CSA) in Bulgaria and its link to organic production development. The focus in the following discussion is put on the functioning of CSA groups in the country making a proposal for a model of establishment and management underlining the significance of motivation, communication and feedbacks and envisaging the application of the concept of corporate social responsibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Challenges regarding the sustainable management of the water sector require the diffusion of innovative technologies and the implementation of innovative solutions. The aim of the article is to make a SWOT analysis based on the assessment of the possibilities of innovations to contribute to sustainability in the water sector and the analysis of the problems for their implementation. This allows being outlined recommendations for improving the process of innovation implementation in the sector. The methodological framework of the study includes: 1. Theoretical review of the implementation of innovations in the water sector 2. Methodology for the study of sustainable management of the water sector through the implementation of innovations 3. Study of the problems and the possibilities for achieving sustainability through the implementation of innovations based on a survey among experts 4. Conclusion on the implementation of innovations in the water sector and recommendations for process improvement. The results in the article are part of a study related to the sustainable management of the water sector in Bulgaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last decade, local action groups (LAGs) in Bulgaria have become key organizations supporting the implementation of projects important for rural development. Prerequisites for this are the unique characteristics of the LEADER/CLLD approach, which allow empowerment of the population, capacity building combined with providing access to financial resources, as well as building trust and accumulation of social capital. Since the beginning of the application of the approach in the country, LAGs have been facing some difficulties, but at the same time the opportunities for attracting funds to support a wide range of initiatives at the local level are expanding. In this regard, the aim of this study is based on the analyses of the activities of LAGs in the country, to outline the challenges facing these organizations and to reveal their potential for sustainable development of rural areas. The case study method is applied. The results of the study show a significant potential of LAGs to accelerate the socio-economic processes in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article considers the main parameters of the sustainable development of the urban and rural environment as a basis for ecological development of the Bulgarian Black Sea region. Based on the problems of urbanization in the post-totalitarian transition in Bulgaria, conclusions and findings are made about the nature and the parameters of the implementation of the second pillar "Green Bulgaria" of the Plan for Recovery and Sustainability of the Republic of Bulgaria. The thesis is defended that the future development of Bulgarian Black Sea region should be based on environmental friendliness and sustainability. An attempt has been made to highlight the positive and negative changes in the ecological development of the Bulgarian Black Sea region over the last three decades. The main guidelines for the necessary changes in the regulatory aspect are presented. They should ensure the protection of the air, soil, water and nature of the Bulgarian Black Sea region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberous nitrogen-fixing members of Fabaceae are currently studied as possible alternative crops that would permit cultivation on degraded soils and with reduced water use. The authors explore the historical and recent accounts of Lathyrus tuberosus L., its human consumption in Bulgaria using literature review and ethnobotanical field studies. Changes in land management and agricultural practices and depopulation of villages have thwarted traditional use related to the knowledge of behavior of blind mole-rats. So, opportunities of furthering its uses as animal forage, melliferous plant and green manure within the framework of ongoing climate changes and implementation of sustainable agricultural practices are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of sustainable innovations and ecoentrepreneurial ventures in Bulgaria is reflected through the lenses of two prominent sociological theories - the Relational sociology of Bruno Latour or known as the New Materialism and Hartmut Rosa's New Critical Theory of Modernity and is based on the experiences of the project "Training for ecopreneurship at three Bulgarian Universities". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The information technology (IT) sector is a powerful factor in present-day society, and its role in pro-sustainability policies is crucial. This study aims to gain insight into IT students' perspectives on the role of education for sustainable development (ESD) in their academic curriculum as well as to project their attitudes and actions to prospective employers. Design/methodology/approach: This study used a cross-sectional survey design, involving 260 students majoring in IT at a public university in Bulgaria. Findings: The majority of the students (67.30%) believed that their university education should promote students' social and environmental skills. However, 55–65% thought that the current academic curriculum failed to connect subject matter with relevant environmental issues. The students held high expectations of prospective employers. There was a significant concordance between the participants' views on sustainability and their perceived workplace actions. The participants who believed that employers should reduce carbon emissions were significantly more likely to refuse to do any work that supports the fossil fuel industry [odds ratio (OR) = 4.82, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.04–11.37] or leave a job if the company provides products or services for the fossil fuel industry (OR = 3.10, 95% CI: 1.26–7.26). Such participants were more likely to opt for a lower salary in favor of environmental principles (OR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.32–4.28). Social implications: The IT sector is a powerful factor in present-day society, and its role in pro-sustainability policies is crucial. IT students' perspectives on the gaps in current sustainability practices convey a message to the IT academic and employment communities that environmental issues matter and are important to this new generation of technologically savvy people. Originality/value: There have been a few other studies in Bulgaria on the issue of ESD, but no other study has focused on the projection of students' attitudes toward the environment onto future employers. The study's results showed that the Bulgarian young people who were getting ready for jobs in the IT field had the same environmental values and concerns as their peers from different higher education areas in different parts of the world. They were interested in acquiring knowledge and competencies that would help propel pro-environmental actions in their academic institution and future workplace. Notwithstanding the overall low economic standards in their country, they tended to put carbon-free and environmentally friendly policies ahead of financial interests. Their critical perspectives on the gaps in current sustainability practices convey a message to the academic and job communities in IT that environmental issues matter to this new generation of technologically savvy people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Ordinary product LCA studies focus on measuring or minimizing environmental impact, but do not address if the product fits in a sustainable consumption pattern. This paper proposes a setup in which the planetary boundaries define the maximum impact, and the minimum requirements for a reasonable consumption level specify a lower impact level. Thus, a 'safe operating space' remains. Methods: We use an IO table for EU-27 and the consumption pattern of the Bulgarian population extrapolated to the EU level as driving climate impact. The EU's policy targets are used as a planetary boundary for climate change. Results: The 2020 target is shown to be able to accommodate the Bulgarian-style consumption, with room for a much higher GDP. The 2050 target, however, is too narrow, and a slightly smaller consumption pattern is needed to reach the target. Conclusions: Although the approach is highly simplified and neglects many developments, the idea of using IO-tables and minimum consumption levels to backcast directions to be taken is expected to help policymakers. We acknowledge some important limitations of our approach, but accept these in the context of exploring future scenarios and how to get there, instead of predicting the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to review from a regulatory perspective the major trends in the development of the bank services sector in Bulgaria. The analysis covers the period from the first years of transition until present and stresses the importance of regulatory issues. The objective of the research is to prove that bank regulation was a key factor in sustaining the financial sector both during the transition from a centrally planned into the market economy and also today, when it is being confronted with the global financial crisis. The research methodology includes an overview of the research work on financial services development in transition economies and a case study with a retrospective analysis on the development of bank services in Bulgaria in the 90s as well as on current credit portfolio tendencies and their future prospects. The paper highlights the role of the Central Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and their contribution to the progress made in the financial services market in Bulgaria. The research results underline the importance of a solid regulatory base for sustaining the development of the financial market in the country and for sound financial management of the bank services sector in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Booroola Merino Breed, developed in Australia, is a valuable genetic resource for increasing biological fecundity in sheep worldwide. The purpose of this study was to summarize information about the Booroola Merino breed and its use worldwide and in Bulgaria for increasing the reproductive potential of Merino sheep and other breeds. The positive effect of the introduction of the FecB gene for high fecundity in sheep has been confirmed by a number of authors over a period of over 30 years. It has been established that crosses with Booroola achieve up to 30% higher ovulation rates and 20% more lambs after weaning compared to the purebred animals. The positive effect of introducing the FecB gene from Booroola in the Bulgarian fine-fleece breeds of sheep was established in terms of increasing the ovulation rate and the number of lambs born, with an insignificant negative impact on weight development and wool productivity. Negative effects can be reduced by choosing appropriate crossing schemes. Achieving a balance between benefit and risk in the introduction of the FecB gene from Booroola is an important condition for increasing the economic effect of animal husbandry and creating sustainable production in sheep farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Return migration flow to Bulgaria is constant but not high, except for the past two years. Here, we argue that subjective and objective reasons should both be considered in line to explain life prospects of young returnees at home. An innovative approach to balancing the subjective-objective dichotomy in return migration phenomena is measuring sustainability of return through re-emigration, captured by and tested through a re-emigration index based on a national representative survey of returning Bulgarian migrants. The main hypothesis is that the sustainability of the return of young people depends on a complex group of factors, including social and emotional motives. The main findings are about the magnitude of the return migration flow and its sustainability: The factors for the return of young Bulgarians in the pre-Covid research show strong non-economic character, which intensifies in times of crisis. There are no significantly different tendencies for re-emigration/return among young people compared with all returnees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is part of a series of articles aimed at investigating the problems related to the sustainability of agricultural holdings and to develop a methodology for the assessment of this sustainability. The present study tries to make a parallel between the sustainability of agricultural holdings and the principles of governance sustainability. The article also starts a discussion about the principles of sustainable management of agricultural holdings. In this point, we shed light on the understanding of the governance sustainability of agricultural holdings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite big academic and practical importance, in Bulgaria and other countries in East Europe, there are very few empirical studies on dominating governing structures in agriculture, and their impact(s) on agrarian sustainability. In this paper the interdisciplinary New Institutional Economics framework is incorporated, and the impact of diverse market, private, collective, public and hybrid modes of governance on agrarian sustainability at the current stage of development in Bulgaria assessed. First, the methodological framework of the study is outlined. After that dominating governing modes in Bulgarian farms of different juridical type, size, specialization, ecological and geographical location are identified, and their impacts on agrarian sustainability and its economic, social, and environmental pillars evaluated. In conclusion implications for further research, public policy improvement, and private managerial strategy formation are presented. Agricultural producers of different type use quite unlike mixture of effective market, private, collective and hybrid modes for governance of their activities and relations. Individual factors and modes most contributing to improvement of agrarian sustainability at the current stage of development are: manager's personal convictions and initiatives, farms resources and innovation potential, near future profit and benefits strategies, market prices levels and dynamics, area-based EU subsidies, and informal agreements. Research on relations between the governing structure and agrarian sustainability is to continue though increasing representation, and the spectrum of specific governing modes used by farms of different type as well as assessments of the impact of institutions on agrarian sustainability and the impact of the governance at different hierarchical levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies exploring campus greening in Romania and Bulgaria are limited. Overall, sustainability-related topics and actions are more theory-, rather than practice-oriented in both countries, being particularly addressed by universities dealing with Earth (e.g., geography, ecology) and technical sciences (e.g., environmental engineering). Using literature review and an on-line questionnaire survey, the paper aims to analyse in a comparative manner how campus greening initiatives are integrated into the universities of Romania and Bulgaria, which are the main gaps and needs in terms of campus greening initiatives as well as the similarities vs. differences in implementing campus greening initiatives in both countries, with a view to outline the national specificity. The main findings suggest that universities in both countries have made a significant progress to address sustainability aspects in theory, and practice. However, a delay may be noticed in terms of framing a whole institution approach to the sustainability concept, with more singular and disparate initiatives being identified. Although the level of awareness in terms of the need for and importance of carrying out greening activities in their universities is relatively high for the respondents in both countries, more initiatives have been identified by the respondents in Romania than by the ones in Bulgaria. The main measures and initiatives associated with greening actions at university level are related to green infrastructure and waste management, which mainly contributed to increasing the aesthetic aspect of campuses and to cost reduction. There is a general top-down approach in undertaking green campus initiatives, with less or little involvement on the side of teachers and students (especially in Bulgaria), and more importance being attributed to the management body. The results of the survey can have practical implications and can be used by the universities in both countries to better understand the campus greening concept and to use examples and suggestions provided by the involved stakeholders as best practices to further integrate or promote campus greening practices in universities. • Comparative analysis on how campus greening initiatives are integrated into the universities of Romania and Bulgaria. • The awareness level in terms of the importance of carrying out greening activities in universities is relatively high. • The main measures and initiatives at university level are related to green infrastructure and waste management. • A general top-down approach in undertaking green campus initiatives with a more importance role of the management body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to provide an in-depth review of current literature related to the rapid and inevitable spread of social networks as a source of information influencing consumer opinion. To achieve this, it looks at how internet platforms are becoming an invariable part of the user's daily life. The main trends showing the place and role of social networks such as advertising tools in the tourism industry are revealed. It also examines their impact on the end user, tourist preferences, how they change and comply with new understandings. Two hypotheses are put forward for proof. In the course of the research, the following scientific methods were used: analysis, synthesis, graphical and systems approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strength of the bond between agriculture and the natural environment is measured by output intensity. This work aimed to evaluate the diversity of agriculture across the European Union in terms of agricultural output intensity from the perspective of the assumptions of the concept of sustainable development. Surveys were conducted using selected indicators based on data derived from EUROSTAT, FAOSTAT, and FADN from 2010–2019. The adopted indicators were used for developing a ranking of member states according to output intensity, which, in confrontation with the level of agricultural efficiency, can form a basis for an individual approach to the development strategies of respective member states. Their findings imply that, in the analyzed period, differences in output intensity among member states declined insignificantly. From 2010 to 2019, most countries forming the so-called 'old 15′ featured higher output intensity than new member states. The Netherlands and Malta recorded the highest cost of intermediate consumption per 1 ha of utilized agricultural area. By contrast, agricultural production was the least intensive in Bulgaria. Land productivity was also very strongly variable. The difference between the old and new member states was clearly marked. Dutch agriculture reached the highest land productivity from 2010 to 2019, where agricultural production levels per 1 ha were five times higher than on average in the European Union. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Tourism & Management Studies is the property of Escola Superior de Gestao, Hotelaria e Turismo, Universidade do Algarve and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Energy Union aims to provide clean, secure, and affordable energy for many customers leading societies towards sustainable energy development. Several criteria were introduced in this vein to evaluate the twenty-third EU countries' progress towards energy union goals. The present study proposed and applied a SWARA-TOPSIS framework based on Pythagorean fuzzy sets to rank the EU members considering their sustainable energy development progress. Ten experts working in various fields were selected to support the identified criteria, and a sensitivity analysis based on twenty scenarios was performed to evaluate the proposed model's sensitivity to weight changes. The obtained results indicated that "energy affordability" is the most influential criterion for evaluating countries, and the proposed model is sensitive to weight changes. Luxembourg is also the first-ranked country, followed by Denmark and Sweden, while Bulgaria achieved the worst rank among the EU considering its progress towards the energy union goals. The analysis of the results indicates room for improvement in implementation with the European Union goals by the EU members and the need to consider energy justice and affordability in the policy development, especially in the new members of the EU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses about Moldavian Dragonhead and Smoke Tree essential oils from Bulgaria. Topics of discussion includes oil reaches its maximum level of major components during the flowering which include geranyl acetate, geranial, and geraniol. The major components Smoke Tree essential oil are limonene, cisbocimene, and a-pinene.

A need to include “the fourth” Governance pillar in the concept for understanding and the assessment system of (overall and) agrarian sustainability is increasingly justified in academic literature and finds place in the frameworks of government, international, private, etc. organizations. In Bulgaria, like in many other countries, practically there are no comprehensive assessments of the governance sustainability of agriculture and its importance for the overall agrarian development. The aim of this study is to assess the governance sustainability of Bulgarian agriculture at national and sectoral level. Multiple Principles, Criteria and Indicators assessment of the Governance sustainability of Bulgarian agriculture indicates that the Overall Governance Sustainability is at a “Good” but very close to the “Satisfactory” level. Besides, there is a considerable differentiation in the level of Integral Governance sustainability of individual subsectors. What is more, the individual indicators with the highest and lowest sustainability values determine the “critical” factors enhancing and deterring the particular and integral Governance sustainability of evaluated agro-system. Last but not least important, results on the integral agrarian sustainability assessment based on micro (farm) and macro (statistical, etc.) data show some discrepancies which have to be taken into consideration in the analysis and interpretation, while assessment indicators, methods and data sources further improved. Having in mind the importance of holistic assessments of this kind for improving the agrarian sustainability in general, and the Governance sustainability of agriculture in particular, they are to be expended and their precision and representation increased. The later requires improvement of the precision through enlargement of surveyed farms and stakeholders, and incorporating more “objective” data from surveys, statistics, expertise of professionals in the area, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Bulgaria, like in many other countries, there is practicaly no studies on the governance sustainability of agriculture and its importance for overall agricultural development. This study tries to fill the gap and suggesrs a holistic framework for understanding and assessing the governance sustainability of Bulgarian agriculture. The new approach is “tested” in a large-scale study to assess the governance sustainability of Bulgarian agriculture at national, sectoral, regional, ecosystem and farm levels. It is proved that it is important to include the "missing" Governance Pillar in the assessment of the integral sustainability of agriculture and the sustainability of agricultural systems of different types. The multi-principal, multi-criteria and multiindicator assessment of the governance sustainability of Bulgarian agriculture found out that the overall sustainability is at a “good” but close to the “satisfactory” level. In addition, there is a significant differentiation of the levels of integral governance sustainability of the different types of agro-systems in the country. Moreover, the individual indicators with the highest and lowest sustainability values determine the “critical” factors enhancing and deteriorating the particular and integral governance sustainability of the evaluated agro-system. Given the importance of holistic assessments of this type for improving agricultural sustainability in general, and the governance sustainability of agriculture in particular, they should be expanded and their accuracy and representativeness improved. The later requires increasing precision by increasing the surveyed farms and stakeholders, and using more "objective" data from surveys, statistics, professional experts in the field, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Economía Coyuntural, Revista de Temas de Coyuntura y Perspectivas is the property of Instituto de Investigaciones Economicas y Sociales Jose Ortiz Mercado (IIES-JOM) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The concerns of the public and of humankind in the context of ongoing global climate change processes recently have increasingly raised the issue of sustainable development. As a result, it is pointed as one of the key objectives of the Millennium, and in this light, achieving sustainable agriculture is a top priority of the EU's CAP. Most often the understanding of sustainable agriculture is linked to the environment, because by default a farming system cannot be sustainable if it causes environmental damage. In this regard environmental sustainability of agriculture is seen as an integral part of the sustainability model in the agricultural sector. Over the last decades, the importance of environmental sustainability has been expanding and growing, and this trend will continue in the future, making it particularly relevant for research. The role of the environmental management as part of the sustainable development stands out clearly and differentiated. Environmental sustainability is linked to ensuring better protection of land, water and biodiversity through better utilization of fertilizers, better organization of plant protection, efficient agricultural practices; more efficient use of energy; preserving animal welfare; better waste management in agriculture, etc. The purpose of the article is to present the main results and the conclusion of a scientific study on the level of environmental sustainability in agriculture, which is part of the scientific project "Sustainability of Agriculture in Bulgaria" (2017-2018). A methodological approach that takes into account the general concepts of environmental sustainability, some peculiarities of agricultural sector and some results of research by the Institute of Agricultural Economics (IAE) in this area are used. The results obtained show that environmental sustainability in agriculture is linked to the good level of the prevailing part of its criteria and principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A need to include “the fourth” Governance pillar in the concept for understanding and the assessment system of (overall and) agrarian sustainability is increasingly justified in academic literature and finds place in the frameworks of government, international, private, etc. organizations. Nevertheless, still there is no general consensus on: whether and how to include the governance as a new pillar of agrarian sustainability; how to define the governance sustainability; what are the relations between the governance sustainability of a farming enterprise and agriculture; what are the critical factors of governance sustainability; how to formulate, select, measure and integrate diverse sustainability indicators; and how to properly evaluate the level of governance sustainability, etc. In Bulgaria, like in many other countries, practically there are no comprehensive assessments of the governance sustainability of agriculture and its importance for the overall agrarian development. This study tries to fill the gap and suggests a holistic framework for understanding and assessing the governance sustainability of Bulgarian agriculture. The newly elaborated approach is “tested” in assessment of the governance sustainability of country’s agriculture The study has proved that it is important to include the “missing” Governance Pillar in the assessment of the Integral sustainability of agriculture. Governance sustainability of Bulgarian agriculture indicates that the Overall Governance Sustainability is at a “Good” but very close to the “Satisfactory” level. Besides, results on the integral agrarian sustainability assessment based on micro (farm) and macro (statistical, etc.) data show some discrepancies which have to be taken into consideration in the analysis and interpretation, while assessment indicators, methods and data sources further improved. Having in mind the importance of holistic assessments of this kind for improving the agrarian sustainability in general, and the Governance sustainability of agriculture in particular, they are to be expended and their precision and representation increased. The later requires improvement of the precision through enlargement of surveyed farms and stakeholders, and incorporating more “objective” data from surveys, statistics, expertise of professionals in the area, etc. Since the elaboration of an effective framework for Governance sustainability assessment is far from complete our and other emerging suggestions have to be further discussed, experimented, improved and adapted to the specific conditions of evaluating agricultural system and needs of decision-makers at different levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of the article: The article aims at presenting and analysing key changes in the strategic internal control of companies under the pressure of crisis phenomena. The research question is how to adapt the strategic internal control to an evolving crisis through inclusion of control environmental sustainability measures, and strategic model adaptation. Methodology: A qualitative approach has been applied along with the research of larger companies from the brewery sector and small-and medium sized enterprises from the knitted fabrics manufacturing sector in Bulgaria. The study has also taken into consideration some companies' strategic documents, as well as interviews with companies' managers. The gathered information has been systematized, compared and evaluated with the help of the "Relative (Competitive) Advantage Matrix" model. Scientific aim: Understanding the impact of changes in strategic internal control on management under the pressure of crisis phenomena. Findings: The analysing of the quasi-control environment and competitive advantages is an important strategic management issue during crises. Competitive advantages derive mainly from the characteristics of the product (or service) that make it better than the products (or services) of competitors and they are associated with changes in the strategic internal control of companies under the pressure of hard times. Conclusions: Strategic internal control has to be adapted to the crisis situation through control environmental sustainability measures, strategic model adaptation and selected competitive advantages. Business processes are changing as a result of crisis times, then the control environment, risk assessments and competitive advantages need to be more detailed and analysed in different aspects. At the same time, the strategic internal control in hard times faces unexpected results, such as a drastic reduction in the incomes, a decrease in retail sales or a drastic increase in online sales. Using the collected information, comparisons can be made to better outline similarities and differences that will point out ways for improvement. This information should be brought to the attention of the personnel of the companies. The change in the activities should not be delayed in time, since information quickly becomes out-dated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Bulgaria, like in many other countries, practically there are no comprehensive assessments of the governance sustainability of agriculture and its importance for the overall agrarian development. This study tries to fill the gap and suggests a holistic framework for understanding and assessing the governance sustainability of Bulgarian agriculture. The newly elaborated approach is "tested" in a large-scale study for assessing the governance sustainability of country's agriculture at national, sectoral, regional, ecosystem and farm levels. The study has proved that it is important to include the "missing" governance pillar in the assessment of the integral sustainability of agriculture and sustainability of agro-systems of various types. Multiple principles, criteria and indicators assessment of the governance sustainability of Bulgarian agriculture indicate that the overall governance sustainability is at a "good" but very close to the "satisfactory" level. Besides, there is a considerable differentiation in the level of integral governance sustainability of different agro-systems in the country. What is more, the individual indicators with the highest and lowest sustainability values determine the "critical" factors enhancing and deterring the particular and integral governance sustainability of evaluated agro-system. Last but not the least, results on the integral agrarian sustainability assessment based on micro (farm) and macro (statistical, etc.) data show some discrepancies which have to be taken into consideration in the analysis and interpretation, while assessment indicators, methods and data sources further improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fuel dependency and uncertainty about their prices, coupled with increasing concerns about climate change and other environmental issues, are among the major global challenges on the agenda. They are key drivers for the development of biomass production, considered as the core of the bioeconomy and a main alternative for energy production. The aim of the study is to analyse the contribution of Bulgarian agriculture to the bioeconomy development and the potential of the sector for biomass production. The research is based on the definition and classification of the bioeconomy proposed by the European Commission. Тhe results show a tendency of diminishing importance of Bulgarian agriculture in the national economy after accession to the EU. On the other hand, the sector remains a major source of employment in rural areas. In terms of the potential of Bulgarian agriculture for biomass production, crops of wheat, sunflower and maize play an important role. Based on the data, the other crops analysed cannot be considered as a key source of biomass. Among the major challenges facing Bulgaria are the attitudes in society about the benefits of using biomass, including economic, social and environmental. Therefore, the entrepreneurial activity should be stimulated in order to guarantee sustainable production and efficient use of biomass in the conditions of imbalance between North and South Bulgaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Universities can do more to deliver against the sustainable development goals (SDGs), working with faculty, staff and students, as well as their wider stakeholder community and alumni body. They play a critical role in helping shape new ways for the world, educating global citizens and delivering knowledge and innovation into society. Universities can be engines of societal transformation. Using a multiple case study approach, this study aims to explore different ways of strategizing sustainability toward delivering the SDGs are explored in a university setting with an example from the UK, Bulgaria (Europe) and USA. Design/methodology/approach: The first case is a public UK university that adopted enterprise and sustainability as its academic mission to secure differentiation in a disrupted and increasingly marketized global higher education sector; this became a source of inspiration for change in regional businesses and the local community. The second case is a business sector-led sustainability-driven transformation working with a private university in Bulgaria to catalyze economic regeneration and social innovation. Finally, a case from the office for sustainability in a major US research university is given to show how its engagement program connected faculty and students in sustainability projects within the institution and with external partners. Findings: Each case is in effect a "living lab," positioning sustainability as an intentional and aspirational strategy with sustainable development and the SDG framework a means to that end. Leadership at all levels, and by students, was key to success in acting with a shared purpose. Partnerships within and with universities can help accelerate delivery of the SDGs, enabling higher education to make a fuller contribution to sustaining the economic, environmental, cultural and intellectual well-being of our global communities. Originality/value: The role of universities as the engine of transformational sustainability toward delivering the SDGs has been explored by way of three case studies that highlight different means toward that end. The collegiate nature of the higher education sector, with its shared governance models and different constituencies and performance drivers, means that sustainability at a strategic level must be led with leaders at all levels acting with purpose. The "living lab" model can become a part of transformative institutional change that draws on both top-down and bottom-up strategies in pursuit of sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]