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The original research presented in this Special Section analyzes different aspects of the potential offered to mining firms in developing countries by new demands for solutions to face environmental, social and technological challenges. The evidence is drawn from extensive fieldworks and comparative econometric research on Latin America, and suggests that the existing opportunities will need to be pursued with firm-level efforts and active regulatory and innovation policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies whether the mining sector can represent a true engine of growth for selected Latin American countries through the suppliers' entry and upgrading within mining value chains. We start by using international trade data to study where mining value is added and how rents are distributed across countries. Despite their importance in the production and exports of copper ores and concentrate, the participation of the selected Latin American countries in copper value chains is still confined to the upstream segment. Moreover, their share of innovation relevant for the sector remains very limited, although new data on patenting and publications show that the sector is becoming increasingly innovative worldwide. Then, we use new microeconomic evidence from case-studies in Latin America to explore the specific opportunities and obstacles faced by mining suppliers in entering the value chain and upgrading within it, and how the regulatory and innovation systems have influenced this process. We show that barriers related to the contractual practices, lead firms' attitudes, and the hierarchical industrial organization of the sector, coupled with the countries' weaknesses in local innovation and regulatory systems, have been contributing to hamper suppliers' entry into mining value chains and upgrading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Planning decisions are generally subject to some level of uncertainty. In forestry, data describing the resources available have a major impact on operations performance and productivity. This paper aims to present a method to improve decision-making in the forest supply chain by taking supply uncertainty into account using the results of data quality assessments. The case study describes the operations planning process of a Canadian forest products company dealing with an uncertain volume of wood supply. Three approaches to constructing probability distributions based on data quality are tested. Each approach offers a different level of precision: (1) a frequency distribution of accuracy, (2) a normal distribution based on average accuracy, and (3) a normal distribution based on data quality classification. Using stochastic programming to plan transport and production shows that lower costs can be achieved with a general characterisation of the data accuracy. Not considering uncertainty when planning operations leads to a significant replanning transportation cost. Using classes of data quality to include uncertainty in operations planning contributes to reducing the transportation cost from $15.90/m3 down to $15.32/m3 representing 3.6%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While much of the academic literature on spinouts focuses on new ventures launched by the ex-employees of incumbent firms within the same industry, recent research shows that spinouts may also enter a focal industry from "knowledge contexts" outside of the incumbent industry. In particular, recent studies show that spinouts may enter from both upstream and downstream industries related to a focal industry along the value chain. Such spinouts have been called user-industry and supplier-industry spinouts. In this article, evidence from existing studies is collected to provide an indication of the relevance of such spinouts across various industries. This survey also includes an analysis of industry studies in which user- and supplier-industry spinouts may have been present but were not identified as such by scholars due to a difference in focus. The paper then considers the evidence accumulated to date in order to explore the industry contexts in which these two types of spinouts appear and to develop propositions concerning differences in the entry timing and product/market strategies of these startups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because a product's value decays over time, recovered items (cores) cannot regain their original value when remanufactured—even if kept in pristine condition. We consider a Remanufacturing Original Equipment Manufacturer who can remanufacture recovered cores to their original configuration or upgrade them to current technology. He sells new and remanufactured items concurrently. Each production period signifies an upgrade of the product's features to a new technological generation. We use our novel modeling of Marginal Value of Time (MVT) to perform a rigorous structural decomposition over all potentially optimal values of costs, consumers' valuations, core availability, and MVT to determine conditions under which cores should be restored to their original configuration and those conditions under which cores should be upgraded to current technology. We also show that for only a very small region of the parameter space (1.58% of remanufacturing instances) does concurrently offering both generations of remanufactured units provide greater profit than does remanufacturing to the optimal single generation. Furthermore, the average improvement in these instances is negligible (0.42%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Supply chain revamping (SCR) is an important strategy for firms to improve their supply chain operations in a rapidly changing environment. The purpose of this study is to shed light on the impact of SCR on shareholder value. Design/methodology/approach: Based on Signaling Theory and 184 SCR announcements published by US-listed firms from 2013 to 2018, this study employs event study methodology and empirically examines three issues: Antecedents of SCRs; Primary purposes and actions of SCRs; In addition to the impact of SCRs on shareholder value using stock returns, we also examined the factors that can influence the extent of stock returns. Findings: Firstly, our results indicate that SCRs are primarily driven by firms' poor prior performance, CEO turnover and external control threats (ECTs). Secondly, the stock market favors SCRs aiming to meet customer needs and those accomplished through network remodel. However, the market reacts negatively to SCRs aiming at cutting costs, improving poor performance, and those implemented through network trim. Finally, the cross-sectional analysis indicates that shareholders prefer firms operating in more competitive or faster-growing industries and those adopting an expansionist strategy than those adopting a streamlining strategy. Originality/value: Our study provides managers with valuable insights into when firms can benefit from initiating SCRs not only by examining the purposes and actions of SCRs but also by examining the industry- and strategy-specific moderators. Our study illuminates the conditions under which SCR will positively affect shareholder value. Additionally, this study contributes to the existing literature by deepening the understanding of the impact of supply chain decisions on firm performance and identifying the marginal conditions under which the stock market will react positively to SCR announcements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Small Business & Entrepreneurship is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd 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.)

Industry 5.0 has recently been introduced as a new concept. Reviewing the literature shows that Industry 5.0 brings three kinds of values: bringing humans back to industries, making businesses more resilient, and reducing environmental damage. Based on the critical capabilities of Industry 5.0, this study aims to determine how Industry 5.0 transforms the clothing industry's value chain. For this purpose, after identifying the Industry 5.0 technological capabilities through semi-structured interviews and an electronic brainstorming session, a questionnaire was sent to experts to determine how these capabilities bring the values of Industry 5.0 to the clothing industry. After three rounds of the Delphi study, the results declared 33 technological capabilities that affect the clothing industry's value chain. Additionally, among 14 indicators for human-centricity, resilience, and environmental sustainability, Industry 5.0 technological capabilities have the most significant effect on improving business resilience, cost-effectiveness, and economic development in the clothing industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The value provided to market by competing supply chains determines success. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of how supply chains create and distribute this value is paramount. The purpose of this research is to synthesis the value creation and value capture concepts in a supply chain context. A case study of an extended agribusiness supply chain is used to empirically explore how value is created and captured with a specific focus on the interplay of the two concepts. The results identify the core value creation drivers and enablers, and value appropriation mediators that determine the net value capture of a supply chain. Insights from the exploratory case study are synthesised into an overarching model. Identification of the symbiotic relationship of value creation and value capture advances our knowledge beyond current discrete conceptualizations. By drawing upon value theory and the empirical insights, the proposed unified theory provides novel implications for theoreticians and managerial decision makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industry 4.0 (I4.0) focuses on improving agility, productivity, quality, and transparency in business operations through a cyber-physical value chain. This research explores the concepts, capabilities, and enablers of I4.0 concerning India's manufacturing sector. In addition, this research also analyzes the enablers, considering their significance in realizing I4.0. The study employs a mixed-method approach, utilizing a literature review and expert insights to explore the usability of I4.0 for the manufacturing sector in a developing nation and identify the factors leading to its successful implementation. Further, using a quantitative approach, these enabling factors are arbitrated to determine their ranking of implementation that provides support and guidelines to the experts for realizing I4.0 capabilities in the manufacturing sector. The uniqueness of this research lies in its ability to explore and analyze the I4.0 enablers beyond the organizational and technical capabilities of the organization, which is the gap present in many of the available research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mango (Mangifera indica) is the second most economically important fruit in Kenya for local and export markets. Huge postharvest losses estimated between 30 to 50% characterize the mango value chain due to its climacteric nature and high perishability. These losses are exacerbated during ripening. However, the fruit's shelf-life can be extended through the application of 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), an inhibitor of ethylene action. The efficacy of 1-MCP is affected by maturity at harvest, its formulation and concentration, and exposure time. This study sought to establish the effectiveness of the 1-MCP dosing range for the Tommy Atkins' mango variety harvested at two maturity stages defined subjectively based on shoulder elevation and objectively on flesh color as stage 1 (mature green) and stage 2 (advanced maturity). A homogeneous batch of 60 fruits from each maturity stage was exposed to two 1-MCP formulations (SmartFresh™–SmartTabs™ and SmartFresh™–Inbox Sachet). SmartFresh™–SmartTabs™ was applied at 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 ppm concentrations for 12hrs and 24hrs while SmartFresh™–Inbox Sachet was applied at 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 ppm concentrations for 12hrs only. All treatment combinations were ripened at ambient conditions (25±3°C; 60±5% relative humidity). Samples of three fruits were taken at 3-day intervals for measurement of ethylene evolution, respiration rates, total soluble solids (TSS), color, and firmness. The 1-MCP response was significantly (P ≤0.05) affected by maturity stage, 1-MCP treatment concentration, and exposure time. Untreated fruits exhibited higher ethylene peaks of 9.56 μL kg-1 h-1 and 13.29 μL kg-1 h-1 for stages 1 and 2 respectively. Stage 1 fruits subjected to 2.0ppm SmartFresh™–SmartTabs™ recorded a lower ethylene peak of 5.62 μL kg-1 h-1 and 3.62 μL kg-1 h-1 compared to fruits subjected to 1.0 ppm concentration, which recorded an ethylene peak of 5.95 μL kg-1 h-1 and 4.93 μL kg-1 h-1 for 12hrs and 24hrs respectively. Stage 2 fruits subjected to SmartFresh™–SmartTabs™ formulation, also delayed the ethylene peak with 2.0ppm recording ethylene peak of 6.55 μL kg-1 h-1 and 5.32 μL kg-1 h-1 compared to 1.0 ppm, which recorded 7.61 μL kg-1 h-1 and 7.15 μL kg-1 h-1 for 12hrs and 24hrs respectively. Stage 1 fruits subjected to SmartFresh™–Inbox Sachet at 4.0ppm lowered the ethylene peak to 3.89 μL kg-1 h-1. This concentration recorded the lowest peak compared to 5.54 µL kg-1 h-1, 5.12 μL kg-1 h-1, and 4.27 μL kg-1 h-1 for 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0ppm respectively. Interaction of 1-MCP concentration, exposure time, and maturity stage delayed other ripening-related changes including a decrease in hue angle, firmness, and increase in TSS. Results indicated that ripening was delayed by 1-MCP at an early stage of maturity; while the shelf life of treated fruits increased with increasing 1-MCP concentrations. SmartFresh™–SmartTabs™ applied at 2.0ppm for 24 hours achieved an increased shelf life of 12 days compared to the control in stage 1. SmartFresh™–Inbox Sachet applied at 2.0ppm and 4.0ppm significantly extended shelf life to 24 days and 21 days for stages 1 and 2 respectively. Overall, the findings of this study suggest that 2.0ppm of the 'powder' formulation and 4.0ppm of the 'Inbox Sachet' formulation of SmartFresh™ would offer optimal effects at 24hrs and 12hrs exposure respectively. We, therefore, wish to recommend these two formulations at the reported levels for commercial application in the Tommy Atkins' mango variety to prolong postharvest shelf life and maintain desirable quality attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, one-third of the food produced for human consumption globally is wasted, a figure projected to rise with increased food production. Collaborative efforts across food supply chains can mitigate post-harvest losses, playing a crucial role in enhancing food security. However, frameworks for multi-stakeholder collaborations remain underdeveloped, particularly in developing countries. We address this gap by focusing on the case study of tomato food supply chain in Tanzania. Using value chain analysis with farmers, traders, and transporters in the Iringa and Morogoro regions, findings reveal that 28% of post-harvest losses stem from climate and weather conditions, followed by limited market knowledge (12.5%) and inadequate storage facilities (11%). The results further show that only a small proportion of the tomato is transported to the market due to bad roads and there is limited number of processing industries, exacerbating the issue. Farmers have no knowledge as to how much they will produce or where they will sell in the next season. Building on these findings, the study revises Bhattacharya and Fayezi's (Ind Mark Manag 93: 328–343, 2021) framework to propose a tailored multi-stakeholder collaboration framework for the Tanzania food supply chain context. This framework aims to empower smallholder farmers to reduce losses and increase incomes while fostering sustainable collaborations applicable to other value chains and regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring companies' contributions to climate dynamics and their exposure to transition risks requires accurate measurements of their non-carbon dioxide greenhouse gas emissions (non-CO2 GHG). However, carbon accounting standards are not harmonised and allow for some discretion when converting emissions of different GHGs into CO2 equivalent units, the currency in which carbon footprints are expressed. Focusing on methane, we build counterfactual harmonised standards using the latest IPCC Global Warming Potential (GWP) values over 100 years and estimate a cumulative gap in reported methane emissions of 170MtCO2e (~6Tg) over a sample of 2864 companies. Changing the counterfactual from GWP100to GWP20, as recently codified in certain jurisdictions and initiatives, increases the cumulative gap to 3300MtCO2e (~40Tg). The gap only covers direct emissions and hence understates the extent of potential under-reporting across value chains. Overall, our study underscores the importance of global harmonisation of CO2-equivalence standards to coherently track corporate GHG emissions and their exposure to transition risks. Companies benefit from some discretion on how to disclose their emissions, leading to potential underestimations of GHG footprints. Focusing on direct methane emissions, this paper quantifies a sizeable emission gap and associated transition risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of modern production systems is requiring more and more integration of human-in-the-loop principles introduction of new working paradigms, where humans and machines cooperate and interact with each other. Such practices are reinforcing the need for human-centric smart manufacturing (HSM). Today, human-cyber-physical systems (HCPSs) allow to intrinsically meet the industrial complexity and bring insights in the development and implementation of HSM. In this context, the growing interest of academics and practitioners on the three key concepts of "sustainability, human-centric, and resiliency" related to the Industry 5.0 (I5.0) framework is justified. The aim of this study is to present a methodological approach for the design of adaptive human-cyber-physical systems to meet the I5.0 objectives. Starting from the analysis of the as-is user and process-related conditions, this innovative closed-loop framework guarantees a step-by-step tuning logic according to specified objectives. A use case concerning a quality control procedure for the Oil&Gas sector is proposed, where a preliminary HCPS prototype has been developed and tested. The solution provides a contextual support throughout all the value chain to the diverse activities carried out by design engineers up to end-users by offering a valuable operator's user experience (UX). The main results suggested that the conceived strategy overcomes traditional limitations of the technical drawings by integrating model-based engineering with human-centred design (HCD) principles. The systematic introduction of HCPS allows to redesign the human–machine interaction according to new paradigms of collaboration between the humans and the smart factory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This paper addresses the challenges of vision-based manipulation for autonomous cutting and unpacking of transparent plastic bags in industrial setups, contributing to the Industry 4.0 paradigm. Industry 4.0, emphasizing data-driven processes, connectivity, and robotics, enhances accessibility and sustainability across the value chain. Integrating autonomous systems, including collaborative robots (cobots), into industrial workflows is crucial for improving efficiency and safety. Methods: The proposed system employs advanced Machine Learning algorithms, particularly Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), for identifying transparent plastic bags under diverse lighting and background conditions. Tracking algorithms and depth-sensing technologies are integrated to enable 3D spatial awareness during pick-and-place operations. The system incorporates vacuum gripping technology with compliance control for optimal grasping and manipulation points, using a Franka Emika robot arm. Results: The system successfully demonstrates its capability to automate the unpacking and cutting of transparent plastic bags for an 8-stack bulk-loader. Rigorous lab testing showed high accuracy in bag detection and manipulation under varying environmental conditions, as well as reliable performance in handling and processing tasks. The approach effectively addressed challenges related to transparency, plastic bag manipulation and industrial automation. Discussion: The results indicate that the proposed solution is highly effective for industrial applications requiring precision and adaptability, aligning with the principles of Industry 4.0. By combining advanced vision algorithms, depth sensing, and compliance control, the system offers a robust method for automating challenging tasks. The integration of cobots into such workflows demonstrates significant potential for enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability in industrial settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Throughout the hydrogen value chain, industries increasingly rely on digital tools utilizing equations of state to develop safer, more efficient, and cost-effective processes. This paper compares the Peng-Robinson equation of state with volume translation (tc-PR EoS) and the Coquelet-El Abbadi-Houriez equation of state (CAH EoS), modified with the Feymann-Hibbs correction to the covolume, to account for the quantum swelling phenomenon. The models were used to predict density, residual enthalpy, and Joule-Thomson coefficients over a temperature range of 20–353 K. It has been applied to binary mixtures relevant to the hydrogen industry, including H 2 /CO 2 , H 2 /CO, H 2 /CH 4 , and H 2 /N 2. Model parameters were fitted to liquid-vapor equilibrium (VLE) data using the generalized Wong-Sandler (g-WS) and van der Waals (vdW) classical mixing rules. The performance of the models in representing VLE data and densities over a wide range of thermodynamic conditions was assessed. These models can help design processes for hydrogen production, transport and use. [Display omitted] • Modelling pure hydrogen with tc-Peng-Robinson and Coquelet-El Abbadi-Houriez EoS. • Incorporating quantum swelling phenomenon with Aasen's covolume correction. • Predicting key thermodynamic properties of pure hydrogen using a cubic EoS. • Prediction of vapor-liquid equilibrium and binary mixture densities with hydrogen. • Comparison and adjustment of van der Waals and generalized Wong-Sandler mixing rules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Exploring sanitation at a city scale is crucial due to approaches such as Citywide Inclusive Sanitation (CWIS). Sanitation impacts individuals, households and the whole city, as recognised by CWIS. The Shit Flow Diagram Graphic (SFDG) is the primary tool for citywide situation analysis. However, current SFDGs assume that individuals use only home toilets, overlooking the complexity of toilet usage, including public and workplace facilities. Our understanding of citywide sanitation flows is incomplete if analyses ignore the other toilets that people use. This study explored the impact of one type of institutional sanitation, school sanitation, on citywide sanitation flows. Methods: To do this an overview and analysis of school sanitation at a citywide level was needed and a method to split the school pupils' excreta flows was developed. Data was collected from secondary sources (e.g. from Ghana Statistical and Educational Services), structured observations (n = 26), and interviews with key informants (n = 15), headteachers (n = 26) and students (n = 39) from across Accra Metropolitan Area, Ghana. This data was used to construct three SFDGs, which were compared using Trend Graphs (graphs used to compare the state of sanitation across the different stages of the sanitation value chain). Results and Discussion: The findings indicated that school sanitation was less safely managed than household sanitation and that SFDGs could be used assess school-level sanitation. Method development was crucial to accurately partition pupils' excreta flows. While annual flows from schools appeared insignificant citywide, this seasonal flow could adversely affect public and environmental health during school terms. Therefore, it may be more important to consider the school population as a whole when thinking about the impact of school sanitation. This study highlights the importance of understanding where people spend their day and how this is related to the different sanitation systems they use; it demonstrates the need to move beyond household sanitation. This study successfully demonstrates the level of information that is needed regarding people's sanitation practices which enables their excreta flows to be split between different facilities. It could be used as a guide for future studies and the further development of methods to explore this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To qualify products as premium, branding and marketing initiatives often employ imaginaries about the product's origin to invoke positive associations. Yet, little is known about the dissociative aspects of how these place imaginaries create value. In this paper I examine comparatively how in both one aesthetic and one relatively standardized agri-food market – wine and farmed salmon from Chile – imaginaries of pristine and traditional places are becoming central referents for product quality. I demonstrate how, in the context of rising sustainability demands in global value chains, the value of these place imaginaries lies not only in their power to create positive associations in the end market. Instead, they also help powerful actors to dissociate from locally contentious politics surrounding harmful social and environmental practices. The paper contributes to research on firms' dissociative practices by disentangling the ideational and relational work through which value chain actors dissociate in qualification processes and draws implications for material changes in production systems in view of their environmental and social sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study investigates the state-led development and management of the value chain for corporate carbon performance data. By tracing the progression path of the carbon data value chain in the Republic of Korea, we aim to assess the functionality of a state-led system. Discussion:The state-driven value chain development provides structured support, particularly in the early development phases. However, it also presents limitations and inefficiencies, including a mismatch between the expansive role of the public sector and the constrained market activities in the downstream segments of the value chain. These dynamics are significantly influenced by country-specific elements such as economic and industrial policies, market receptivity to the net-zero transition, and the decarbonization strategies of both the state and corporations. Conclusion: To advance the carbon data value chain towards greater maturity, we recommend enhancing capacity building, fostering private sector engagement, and improving data transparency, accessibility, and usability. Key policy insights State-led carbon data value chains are effective in early development stages; however, they must transition to facilitate market-driven mechanisms as the system matures. Policymakers need to navigate the dual pressures of domestic and global agendas, ensuring firms' adherence to regulations while promoting proactive alignment with global benchmarks. The public sector's role should evolve to enhance the depth and breadth of data through diversified sources and criteria, fostering a more dynamic and responsive system. Global integration of the carbon data value chain demands a reconceptualization of geographical roles to ensure effective international alignment and local relevance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The banana value chain is a key driver of socio-economic development in South Africa, supporting food security, job creation, income generation, and rural development. The Onderberg District, located in the Mpumalanga Province, is one of South Africa's six main banana production areas, contributing 35 per cent of the country's total banana cultivation. As such, street vendors play a crucial role in banana retailing, yet they are systematically excluded from the formal banana value chains.The purpose of this article is to map the informal economy banana value chains in the Onderberg District, emphasising the role of street vendors and documenting their value-adding activities. To achieve this, a combination of data collection tools within a cross-sectional time frame, including surveys and interviews, was employed. A total of 119 street vendors were surveyed, and 11 key informants participated in in-depth interviews. Banana value chains were mapped using functional analysis. The value chain analysis reveals the imbalances and challenges faced by street vendors within the banana market.There is a need to enhance the inclusivity of street vendors at every stage of the banana value chain. As members of vulnerable socio-economic groups, street vendors play a crucial role, particularly in informal markets. Analysing banana value chains in these settings can significantly improve economic livelihoods, especially for women, who are often not compensated for the work they do. This study addresses a critical knowledge gap by focusing on street vendors, offering valuable insights for future research, policy development, and practical interventions in similar contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the intricate relationship between Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and spatial knowledge within the European Union (EU) subnational regions. While existing research has examined this relationship, it often oversimplifies the complexities involved. This study aims to fill this gap by dissecting various types of inward FDI based on sectors, investor origins, and spatial knowledge forms. Using extensive data spanning over 13 years, the study employs negative binomial regression analysis to investigate 223 EU subnational regions. The findings reveal that localized specialization, urbanization, and population density play significant roles in attracting FDI, particularly in manufacturing and logistics. Conversely, capital cities tend to deter manufacturing-related FDI due to resource constraints. Moreover, the study identifies the importance of agglomeration economies, measured by urbanization, in driving FDI across different models given the knowledge spillovers and technological externalities found in densely populated areas. In light of these findings, tailored policies that account for diverse factors – such as regional agglomeration economies and strategic value chain activities – are essential. Recognizing the complexity of multinational business activities is crucial for designing effective policies aimed at reducing regional disparities within the EU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of HMD: Praxis der Wirtschaftsinformatik is the property of Springer Nature 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.)

This paper presents three interrelated arguments concerning the fashion industry and regulation. First, we propose that Bertola's and Teunissen's concept of Fashion 4.0 offers a powerful framework for understanding the organization of global fashion today. This model emphasizes the dynamic, decentralized and technology-driven character of the 'smart factories', 'smart networks' and 'smart products' that dominate the global fashion industry. The value of this framework is illustrated with contemporary examples from the UK. Second, we argue that increasing regulatory demands impose uncertain and costly compliance obligations on firms across multiple aspects of their operations and supply chain. Our discussion highlights the confluence of challenges related to intellectual property, value chain monitoring and AI regulation. We contend that smaller and medium-sized enterprises, particularly emerging designers, are disproportionately affected by this regulatory burden—a phenomenon we term the 'tragic character' of contemporary compliance. Finally, we explore how the challenge of navigating an increasingly complex business and regulatory landscape necessitates the deployment of ever-more sophisticated digital technologies, especially AI. We outline several potential applications of such technologies across the fashion industry. In conclusion, we suggest that in the context of Fashion 4.0 , understanding the interaction between different regulatory schemes, as well as their effects on industry stakeholders, is becoming critical yet increasingly complex and opaque. This raises difficult questions about the limits of law and other regulatory schemes in fostering innovative, sustainable, and socially responsible business practices in the fashion sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To better implement sustainability initiatives in the Circular Economy (CE) age, benefiting of Total Quality Management (TQM) principles, the category of Social Enterprises (SE) manifests an enormous potential. Nonetheless, the above views have been lightly researched, providing research gaps in at least three areas: (1) TQM as an open model, expanded, and boundaryless that involves stakeholders in the value chain through value co-creation processes; (2) TQM and CE and (3) TQM and SE. Through this paper, we reconceptualize TQM with the lens of viable systems approach, CE and SE, while concluding with an illustrative case study and COVID-19 implications. Methodologically, we apply the inductive approach through the illustrative case of Patagonia by emphasizing also how COVID-19 influenced quality management and company-level circularity. This study revealed that the common denominator of TQM, CE and SE is the Triple Bottom Line (i.e. economic, social and environmental sustainability). Also, the concept of 'value' was another unifying notion, especially the value co-creation, social value and shared value. ESG implications showed that companies like Patagonia went through profit shrinking to safeguard societal and environmental welfare, with supply chain implications that involved factory workers and partners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainability reports constitute a good source to check how companies have understood sustainability. The purpose of this paper is to interpret how building sustainability has been understood, defined and measured, using sustainability reports from the building value chain in Sweden. Sweden has been chosen since it is rated as a sustainability leader and could therefore be expected to be a benchmark. The analyses are based on how sustainability has been defined and what the level of reporting maturity has been. A maturity grid that assesses if the most important impacts have been considered in the entire value chain has been used. Also, it has been checked if there are indicators measuring sustainability with externally set goals. Results indicate that there seems to be no common agreement on what building sustainability is. Most studied companies have not presented a clear definition of how they have interpreted sustainable development and there is no clear focus on key issues such as climate and affordability. Sustainable building could, based on the deduced main sustainability impacts, be seen as affordable with zero carbon footprint. Fundamental Key Performance Indicators for residential building sustainability could be such as m2 living per carbon footprint and per price. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Africa has the most deaths from infections yet lacks adequate capacity to engage in vaccine development, production and distribution, the cornerstone of efficiently managing and eliminating several infectious diseases. Research has scarcely explored the role of institutional logics in vaccine development, production and distribution, collectively known as end-to-end vaccine manufacturing. This study aims to explore how institutional logics influence firms to engage in the vaccine manufacturing value chain in Africa. Design/methodology/approach: We conducted multiple case study research using five vaccine manufacturing firms from four African countries in three regions. Qualitative interviews were conducted among 18 executives in 5 vaccine manufacturing firms. Findings: We identified that the state, corporate and market institutional logics disparately influence the different parts of the vaccine manufacturing value chain. These institutional logics co-exist in a constellation that also shapes the organizational forms. Their constellation has dominant logics that guide behavior, while subdominant and subordinate logics influence behavior to a limited extent. The findings show that institutional logics are a function of contextual factors, such as historical events, technological changes and pandemics. Originality/value: The study developed a typology that identifies vaccine manufacturing firm archetypes, institutional logics and their constellations underpinned by contextual factors. The findings have implications for firms and policymakers, as they may guide the end-to-end vaccine manufacturing interventions adapted for their regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Random polynomio chains adopt a geometrically guided framework for analyzing resistance distance, which involves mathematical techniques to comprehend electrical resistance and optimize communication routes within networks. By determining the expected values of resistance distance-based indices, we can understand the typical or average performance of the network in terms of electrical resistance and communication efficiency. In this study, the closed-form formulae for the expected values of the Kirchhoff and additive degree-Kirchhoff indices for the random spiro-polynomio chains are determined. Furthermore, we compute the average values of Kirchhoff and additive degree-Kirchhoff indices for the spiro-polynomio chains with n polynomios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper, which presents highlights of the World Energy Employment report 2023 published by the International Energy Agency with the support and analytical contribution of Enel Foundation, provides an overview of the impacts of decarbonization process on the energy workforce at a global level. Data collected and estimated with deep granularity across the entire value chain shows that increasing investments in the power sector, electric vehicles and other clean technologies are fuelling workforce growth in the energy sector: nearly 67 million people were employed in the energy sector worldwide in 2022, an increase of 3.4 million jobs compared to 2019. Projections under several energy transition scenarios demonstrate that the energy transition will have a net positive effect on jobs through 2030, with job additions in clean energy sectors far outweighing declines in sectors associated with fossil fuels. However, a more detailed analysis of the most in-demand skills within the energy sector reveals that skills shortages in some sectors are preventing the workforce from growing as quickly as needed. Across the energy industry, employers are reporting difficulty hiring and retaining workers with the skills needed to deploy clean energy technologies. To relieve this bottleneck, the paper identifies key intervention areas to build a pipeline of skilled labour (e.g., through reskilling and upskilling initiatives, along with energy transition-focused education) and thus minimize employment-related delays in the decarbonization process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic map explores the role of sustainability certification schemes and labels in reducing greenhouse gas emissions across biobased value chains. With increasing global and EU interest in transitioning to a sustainable bioeconomy, these certification mechanisms are seen as critical tools for promoting low-emission practices. This review maps the available evidence regarding the effectiveness of certification schemes, examining sector-specific variations and identifying knowledge gaps. A comprehensive search strategy was employed across three major databases and grey literature sources, yielding 41 relevant articles. There are significant disparities in the evidence on the impact of sustainability certification schemes and labels on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across biobased sectors. Agriculture has the most data, but studies are heavily focused on organic systems, limiting broader conclusions. Most research is concentrated in Southeast Asia and Europe, reducing generalizability to other regions. Additionally, most studies focus on the production stage, leaving value chain phases like processing and disposal under-represented. Knowledge gaps exist across sectors, certification schemes, and life cycle stages, highlighting the need for further research. While some schemes incorporate GHG management tools, evidence on their effectiveness remains insufficient and context-dependent, warranting more robust, targeted research. Though this research looked at all biobased feedstocks, it did not review schemes and labels specifically targeting biofuels, which presents an avenue for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As supply chains evolve toward the adoption of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), vast amounts of data are collected by different systems across the manufacturing, logistics and transportation value chain. John G Russell (Transport) is a UK-based company involved in multiple lines of business in the supply chain. As the company adopts the utilization of data intelligence as a way to collect, process and utilize data for insights, this presents an opportunity for applying artificial intelligence (AI) approaches such as reinforcement learning (RL), to identify trends, and offer recommendations for improving the sustainability and efficiency of its logistics. Preliminary results show that we can achieve up to a 20–30% reduction in carbon emissions from the fleet of a segment of the transport business lines of the Russell Group. This paper presents a holistic framework for achieving sustainable supply chains, reducing costs as well as achieving operational efficiency using a supply chain digital twin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the growing importance of data in global value chains (GVC) and its impact on power relations. We ask (1) how data becomes valuable in GVC, (2) how different types of data are used and (3) how this affects power relations among actors in GVC. We conceptualise data as increasingly important for the development of intangible assets, combining the literatures on intangible assets in GVC and the political economy of data. Based on 88 interviews with practitioners and experts involved in digital business models in Germany, we propose a data typology as an instrument to analyse the effects of data use in GVC based on the origin of data: transactions, product use and processes. We then apply the typology to three case studies of data use in GVC, analysing what kind of intangibles data contribute to and how this leads to upgrading and changes in value chain governance. We argue that data use in industrial value chains does not lead to the concentration of power in the hands of data monopolies. Instead, the creation of value from data rests on a division of labour, with various actors competing for shares of the captured value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production, distribution, and consumption of food under environmental, economic, and social sustainability criteria are often embodied in territorial civic networks that strive for an alternative food system founded on geographical proximity. This article assesses the contribution of such food networks to territorial development in the provinces of Salamanca and Zamora (Spain), severely constrained by depopulation and the dispersion of production and consumption centres. After compiling an inventory of active networks, a sample of initiatives across all the stages in the value chain was interviewed in depth. The information recorded sheds light onto three key topics. First, the values and objectives aimed at by their stakeholders. Second, their embeddedness in this weak territory, key to assessing their contribution to economic, social, environmental and governance development. Third, the limitations raised by the territorial context and the institutional and governance framework to the strengthening of these initiatives. It is concluded that the social capital underlying these food networks is the fundamental resource that sustains their ability to leverage the natural capital of the territory, despite the limited economic capacities of these networks and the unequal support they receive from public administrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mining complex is an integrated value chain that consists of multiple mines, stockpiles, processors, waste dumps, and tailing facilities, and where the in-situ materials mined are transformed into products sold to customers. Simultaneous stochastic optimisation provides a strategic mine planning framework that incorporates all components of a mining complex into a single mathematical representation, capitalising on the synergies between components while considering uncertainty. An application of this optimisation framework at a coper mining complex demonstrates that the incorporation of material supply, market demand, and processing recovery uncertainties into the modelling leads to production schedules that yield a higher NPV and metal recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Value-Based Health Care (VBHC) represents a pivotal shift from volume-based to outcome-driven quality metrics centered on patient-valued outcomes. This approach requires collaboration across all participants in the health care value chain; providers, payers, pharma, policymakers and patients (collectively known as the 5Ps). Despite substantial theoretical endorsement of VBHC's potential for improving health outcomes and system efficiency, empirical evidence detailing its practical implementation remains limited. This field study evaluates the real-word implementation of VBHC within a health care organization. Methods: In 2022, a health care collaboration Think Tank initiated this investigation during a breakout session, gathering insights from 12 leading international organizations to construct an empirical VBHC transformation reference guide. Real-world data was collected through structured interviews over a 1-year period, covering the 5 P value chain in various healthcare settings. The VBHC initiatives were analyzed through four stages: initiation, data acquisition, collaborative frameworks, and results evaluation. Results: The 12 interviews identified five key enablers for successful VBHC implementation: 1. Organizational Purpose: defining core motivators for change; 2. People: identifying pivotal roles and leadership to endorse change; 3. Resources: securing personnel and financial support; 4. Data Infrastructure: developing interoperable IT systems for effective data sharing and collection; 5. Execution: prioritizing sustained implementation processes. Conclusion: The findings highlight that VBHC implementation and adoption is complex and requires incremental advancements, dedicated leadership, and resilient strategic framework spanning over multiple years. A comprehensive understanding of patient populations, risk stratification, and appropriate outcome metrics are essential to measure and deliver the VBHC transformation. Executive endorsement and transition funding during the transformation process are paramount to support this systemic shift. Collaboration among all 5 P stakeholders is essential for success. This field study underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptation, providing a practical guide to enhance health care quality and efficiency that serves all stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the industry classification of digital economy is determined, the comprehensive index framework of digital economy development level in China is constructed, and the input-output analysis method and index method are used to measure the digital investment status of manufacturing industry in China. At the same time, based on the realistic demand that China's manufacturing industry needs to climb the regional value chain, this paper constructs the forward participation index, backward participation index, regional value chain position index, and regional value chain Balassa, and analyzes the current situation of China's manufacturing industry in RCEP region. Construct a semi-parametric additive model to explore the impact of digital investment on China's manufacturing industry's participation in the RCEP regional value chain. In addition, this paper uses the community analysis method to build the RCEP regional manufacturing digital input trade network, and comprehensively evaluates the trade network pattern of digital input from multiple dimensions. The results show that: (1) the digital investment in China's manufacturing industry is increasing year by year. (2) The indicators of manufacturing industry's participation in RCEP regional value chain show a fluctuating situation, which is generally consistent with China's economic development. (3) Within a certain range, digital investment will promote the participation of China's manufacturing industry in the RCEP regional value chain. China is gradually becoming an important participant in RCEP regional trade. According to the corresponding measurement results, it provides policy suggestions for the deep integration of China's manufacturing industry and digital economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrolysis of biomass residues can generate savings in the value chains of forest products due to the uses of its products in the forestry sector. The aim of this study was to determine the performance during slow pyrolysis process and the yields of different products of two types of residues, wood chips and solid wood board-ends from Gmelina arborea. Results showed no significant differences in yields of charcoal (26 to 28%), wood vinegar (28 to 30%) and non-condensable gases (37%), but bio-oll yield was higher for the solid wood board-ends residues (7.7%). The evaluation of energy charcoal characteristics and wood vinegar was similar for two types of residues. So, results suggest that two types of residues provided similar charcoal, condensable and non-condensable gases yields, but solid board-ends are recommended to obtain higher yield of bio-oil and complete the process in less time, Charcoal and vinegar characteristic were affected by type of residues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Undernutrition in women and young children in Burkina Faso is a critical problem. Egg consumption is low despite many households raising poultry. The Soutenir l'Exploitation Familiale pour Lancer l'Élevage des Volailles et Valoriser l'Économie Rurale (SELEVER) project, an integrated agriculture‐nutrition intervention, promoted egg consumption and sales to investigate the impact of poultry production on child nutrition. Multisectoral nutrition‐sensitive agriculture programs address nutrition deficits but lack comparable cost information. This study estimates the costs of the SELEVER program, an integrated poultry and nutrition intervention. The study estimates the program's economic costs using a standardized methodology from the Strengthening Economic Evaluation for Multisectoral Strategies for Nutrition (SEEMS‐Nutrition) consortium, which aligns financial and economic costs along program impact pathways, allocating costs by activities and inputs. We conducted qualitative interviews and focus groups on time allocation and beneficiary out‐of‐pocket costs. Incremental economic costs were calculated by combining expenditures and economic costs. The total incremental program cost was USD$18,084,727.68 over 5 years, with annual incremental costs of USD$209.20 per direct beneficiary and $796.26 per household. Major cost drivers included overhead (18%), poultry extension (17%), training (16%), household counseling (7%), technical assistance (7%) and microcredit (6%). Total input costs were dominated by personnel (51%), supplies (13%), agricultural inputs (10%) and overhead (9%). We present the total incremental costs of a multisectoral nutrition intervention to generate revenue with poultry. The costs per beneficiary were higher than similar interventions, underscoring the need for cost‐effectiveness evaluations of multisectoral nutrition programs. A standardized cost methodology facilitates comparisons with multisectoral nutrition interventions and builds the evidence base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose: Building on the value chain model, this study develops a theoretical framework to illustrate the associations between digitalization and firms' value chain activities from three typical dimensions including R&D investment, manufacturing cost efficiency and marketing cost efficiency. The roles of unabsorbed and absorbed slack resources in their relationships are also examined. Design/methodology/approach: Based upon a large sample of Chinese manufacturing firms from 2016 to 2020 and then employing text mining-based analysis and the multiple regression model, this study empirically tests the effects of digitalization on firms' value chain activities and how these effects are moderated by slack resources. Findings: The findings show that increase in digitalization leads to an increase in firms' R&D investment and a decline in manufacturing cost, but results in an increase in marketing cost. In addition, the unabsorbed slack resources and absorbed slack resources play differentiated roles in the associations between digitalization and these value chain activities. Originality/value: This study contributes to the debate on how digitalization facilitates or hinders the value increment by employing the value chain model and further analyzing the impacts of digitalization on three value chain dimensions: R&D investment, manufacturing cost efficiency and marketing cost efficiency. This study extends the possibility that the influences of digitalization on different value chain dimensions may vary depending on some key contingency factors such as unabsorbed and absorbed slack resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global mining polices have always been amid intense changes with the main trend of supply chain alignment, industrial chain localization, and sustainable development of mining cooperation mode in 2024. The global game of critical minerals has been intensifying. Developed economies are trying to adjust the mining supply chain, industrial chain and value chain to regions or groups with similar geography and values. The tense global competition for critical minerals leads to forming camps and fragmentation of the global resource governance system. It exacerbates the differentiation of competition and cooperation around the world. In accordance with national conditions and the current situation of mining development, resource-rich developing countries carry out macro-control of mining sector by reforming legal framework, and optimizing the management system to stimulate mining industry vitality. Part of resource-rich developing countries have strong demands for higher economic benefits and fairer profit distribution models. So, they have strengthened resource sovereignty and control and promoted the localization of industrial chains through new regulatory structures, more favorable fiscal and tax conditions, and more important roles for state-owned companies. At the same time, the pace of translating ESG concepts into practice has accelerated significantly. Developed countries have taken action to formulate standards and rules jointly. Resource-rich developing countries have also paid more and more attention to ESG practices. Therefore, the relevant laws, regulations and policy systems have become more stringent and standardized, leading to the development of the mining industry in the direction of sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines contemporary Chinese-Kazakhstani political economic ties from the perspective of trade. In particular, it traces the evolution of this relationship before and after the critical juncture of 2013, when the Silk Road Economic Belt was announced in Astana, ushering the era of the Belt and Road Initiative. This paper advances three arguments. First and foremost, Kazakhstan has avoided developing a dependency on the Chinese economy. Its trade autonomy has been maintained before and after the Belt and Road Initiative was launched in 2013, as Kazakhstan benefited from the development of markets alternative to China. Secondly, trade between Kazakhstan and China was mostly focused on natural resources during the immediate pre-BRI years, but it has gradually shifted to a more balanced mix, encompassing intermediate goods, raw materials, and consumer goods. Thirdly, such diversification is the product of an increasingly sophisticated, complex value chain interconnecting Kazakhstan and the rest of the world, including but not limited to China. The growing complexity of these production networks, while certainly beneficial to Chinese firms, has also contributed to Kazakhstan's multi-vector geopolitical strategy. In this environment, Kazakhstan demonstrates the capability to weather the ongoing deceleration of China's economy, as the Central Asian country pursues the diversification of its own economy and external economic ties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This article examines the dairy value chain in Southern Peru and identifies four critical success factors that can enhance the local situation. Design/methodology/approach: The study employed descriptive research using semi-structured interviews with entrepreneurs from 17 cheese factories across eight districts, namely Azángaro, Ayaviri, Pucara, Lampa, Cabana, Acora, Pomata and Puno. Quantitative market data were also gathered and analyzed alongside qualitative views. Findings: The study identified four critical issues: quality concerns in milk production, suboptimal managerial practices of cheese-processing plants, lack of compliance to regulations, particularly hygiene and environmental ones, and inadequate access to finance. The findings reveal a gap between the practices of the Puno region's dairy industry and world-class standards for cheese production. Urgent actions are required to improve product quality, increase access to finance, enhance managerial education and ensure compliance with regulations. Research limitations/implications: Results suggest critical issues to be prioritized, but the article does not propose how to solve the problems identified. External factors, such as economic changes, were also not considered. Interviews were conducted exclusively with cheese processing entrepreneurs, not milk producers. Originality/value: This case study provides an insight into the interior of Peru, an under-researched region facing several development challenges. The findings have significant implications for dairy value chain stakeholders in Peru and other similar contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]