bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CONCEPTUAL ECONOMIC INDICATORS IN THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY
Authors: Katsarski Nikolay
Published: February 2023

Environmental pollution from production waste and disposal of household, electronic and other equipment is becoming more and more noticeable. This requires a rethinking of business processes in enterprises. Waste management is becoming a major problem of our society. Therefore, a targeted policy at the local and national levels is crucial. This requires a change in legislation in this area, as well as the development of specific measures to tackle the problems. To this end, however, we need indicators to determine the state and impact of the circular economy at local and national levels. In addition, the relationship of the circular economy to business processes and business, in general, must be observed. At present, the following indicators are used at the European level - Production and consumption, Waste management, Secondary raw materials, Competitiveness and innovation. The aim of this publication is to analyze the existing indicators and give recommendations to broaden the scope of the presentation, on the one hand. On the other hand, to present the need to add new indicators to influence management decision-making by business and public authorities.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE DEFINITION OF DEGRADED AREAS, RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE TERRITORIAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING DOCUMENTS OF LATVIAN MUNICIPALITIES
Authors: Stepina Mairita
Published: February 2023

The terminology of degraded areas is not uniform in Latvia and in the world at the moment - it is in the process of development and formulation. Some urban spatial plans also use the terms "abandoned sites" and "disordered sites". They are marked as territories where previous economic activity has been carried out, which is currently in force, but the involvement of these territories as functioning elements (especially - settlements) in the structure, their "return to life" is essential for the development of the municipality. Spatial plans often do not provide detailed information on the cause of degradation, but the list of degraded areas mostly includes unrecovered mining quarries, unused areas of former collective farm centers and livestock farms, as well as former industrial areas. Analyzing the degraded area definition, which has been developed and adapted in Latvia and the territory together with the wording of the definitions of other countries, it must be concluded that they are significantly different in different countries. Therefore, it is necessary to study the definitions of degraded area and develop a definition suitable for the current situation in Latvia, as well as to provide recommendations to local governments in the development of planning documents. In the article author use qualitative research methods - content analysis and analysis of theoretical literature, which gives an opportunity to analyze the definitions of degraded area different countries, regulatory framework, municipal development planning documents and theoretical findings on the need to include degraded area in economic circulation.
ECO-INNOVATION AS A FACTOR IN THE COMPETITIVENESS OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION COMPANIES
Authors: Auzina Anita , Zvirbule Andra , Lamberga Eliza Liga
Published: February 2023

Climate change and global environmental challenges pose an existential threat to the world, including Europe. Dealing with the current climate and environmental challenges requires an urgent and ambitious response. The global challenges are also an opportunity for companies, especially those engaged in environmental protection, to innovate, as they both increase their competitiveness and export potential. The relevance of the research problem is additionally supported by the fact that the European Union is committed to achieving climate neutrality by 2050 and fulfilling its obligations under the Paris Climate Agreement as well as making the implementation of the European Green Deal an obligation for each EU Member State. Accordingly, identify the role of eco-innovation in the competitiveness of companies based on the guidelines of the European Green Deal.
The research employed the following methods to achieve the aim: case study, PEST analysis, expert analysis methods.
Information sources used: specific economic literature, published research papers, scientific conference proceedings from databases: EBSCO, ScienceDirect and Scopus, as well as the European Union�s legal acts and directives, statistical data from Eurostat, European Innovation Scoreboard reports and World Economic Forum competitiveness reports.
ENVIRONMENTAL EXPENDITURE OF ENTERPRISES, IN MINING SECTOR IN KOSOVO
Authors: Morina Gazmend , Kastrati Gani
Published: February 2023

Environmental expenditures include all environmental protection expenditures to prevent, reduce and control environmental aspects, impacts and hazards, in addition to the costs of disposal, treatment, hygiene and cleaning. Environmental protection expenditures are defined as investments of enterprises allocated to reduce direct environmental pollution.
In this scientific paper we will address the topic of environmental costs of enterprises in the mining sector in Kosovo. All enterprises of the mining industry in Kosovo are obliged by legislation to allocate or plan a budget for environmental expenditures.
The Independent Commission for Mines and Minerals is an independent agency defined by the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo, which regulates mining activities in Kosovo in accordance with the Law on Mines and Minerals, bylaws issued in accordance with the Law on Mines and Minerals and Kosovo Mining Strategy.
This institution has determined by administrative instruction the expenses which the enterprises of the mining sector are obliged to deposit in the form of bank guarantees, for the closure of the mine, after the expiration of the license or permit. This type of expense for the company is otherwise called insurance "for all risks to third parties".
Collecting high quality and reliable environmental expenditure data is essential for policymakers to develop effective environmental policies and for donors and financial institutions. Environmental criteria consider how a company performs as a nature manager.
Mining areas often experience a theme of social tension due to the potential compromise between the expected impact of employment and concerns about environmental damage.
Pollution control is a necessary condition for welfare benefits despite new job opportunities in the mining sector. Mining operations often require intensive use of water resources, require land and can create severe environmental externalities, including soil erosion and pollution, air and water, pollution from acid mine drainage, to chemical leakage and sedimentation.
During this paper we will be based on some methods of scientific research such as: analysis, synthesis, generalization, specification, etc. We will be based on publications or official reports of relevant institutions, Kosovo and international legislation related to the topics addressed as well as field visits to the mining sector enterprises in Kosovo, which allocate more budget for environmental expenditures, for due to the activity they exercise.
Finally, we will give our conclusions regarding the adequacy of environmental expenditures made by mining sector companies in Kosovo, the legislation in force and the need to amend or supplement this legislation, etc.
ESTABLISHMENT OF FAIR VALUE AND ANALYSIS OF A WASTE DEPOSIT CONCESSION
Authors: Kavaldzhieva Kalina
Published: February 2023

The scope of environmental accounting includes waste and its neutralization. The activity is classified as a social minimum for the life of the population. The challenge is the growth of waste - household and non-household. Therefore, sustainable development, specifically - waste reduction and recovery, is identified as a center of state and municipal policy. These problems will be soEuroed by making sustainable management decisions. The solution to the problems is through the implementation of public-private partnerships in the form of concessions. It is necessary to derive fair value and analyze the concession rights, which is industrial property. The efficiency of maintaining the existing use of the landfill or granting a construction concession will be compared. It is consistent with the developed legal, technical and environmental analyses. The tasks are: analysis and evaluation of the activity, derivation of the prime cost of the service, evaluation of the concession rights for all interested parties, sustainability of the activity. Methods of synthesis, analysis, comparability and evaluation are applicable. Main results - assessment of the concession rights; assessment of the benefits for the concessionaire and the grantor; proving the sustainability and effectiveness of management decision-making Conclusions In the presence of a positive Present Value and Internal Rate of Return, both for the grantor and the concessionaire is sustainable and effective to grant Concession rights. Recommendations To set minimum limits for the return of the concessionaire and the grantor, so that the tariffs / price per unit of the provided service is socially affordable
FACILITATING GEOSCIENCE EDUCATION THROUGH INTEGRATED EARTH SCIENCE THEMATIC SERVICES PLATFORM
Authors: Tataru Dragos , Nastase Eduard , Toma-Danila Dragos , Grecu Bogdan , Tiganescu Alexandru
Published: February 2023

The global development of society requires constant updating of the objectives that education pursues and how they are achieved. Science education is an area undergoing advanced transformation, both at the level of objectives and methodologies, with a strong social, economic, and knowledge impact. Research-based education is a well-established term, especially in the higher education system. More studies and key policy documents argue that education must be based on cutting-edge research. Essential in this equation is the existence of dedicated frameworks (tools, events, courses, and strategies) and knowledgeable mentors and developers. Through reliable tools, we refer to real learning contexts created by the parties involved in studies and research together with those who analyze how students receive information at their level of knowledge and understanding.
Such a context is also the integration platforms facilitating access to data, products, and research services. There are many such platforms, but not so many of them develop components dedicated to an important user category: pupils, students and their teachers. Considering this category of beneficiaries also means collecting feedback on what is relevant to them, what the platform exposes as information, and what actions they can take to be immersed in the research process. Future �Environmental Data Scientists� will need to draw on multiple data and information sources, using data analysis, statistics, and models to create knowledge that is communicated effectively to decision-makers in government, industry, and civil society. Platforms that �expose� monitoring data, offer access to research products, and allow both the interoperability and reproducibility of science and the transparency of the process leading to a shared outcome are essential for the much-claimed paradigm shift towards open science.
GREEN COMPETITIVENESS IN WASTE MANAGEMENT IN URBAN SOCIETY
Authors: Zyder Vaclav , Pala Tomas , Mosova Daniela
Published: February 2023

Waste management is a public service, the provision of which is the responsibility of local authorities. The area of waste management is currently very strongly regulated in the national and European and at the same time monitored by the civil public with a strong context in public election processes. Expenditures on waste management make up a relatively substantial part of municipal expenditures not only in the Czech Republic but also in developed countries, which is why a number of economists are paying attention to them. This emphasis is related, on the one hand, to the fact that they are interpreted from public sources and belong to the categories of environmental expenditure. Significant influences influencing the above factors include the standard of living of the population in each region and their consumption patterns, population density, geographical conditions, transport services, methods of collection and transport of commodities, availability and equipment of waste management technologies, competition of companies handling waste, the method of setting the price for the service and more. Green competition in waste management is very important, because environmental issues, the principle of circular economy, etc. and a properly set strategy based on results, will support and improve management and social thinking about waste companies. The aim of this paper is to present the results of waste management in the city of Havirov in terms of time and money. The results are old so that the consistency of the data obtained is maintained.
HOW READY ARE SOCIETY FOR EUROPEAN GREEN DEAL: CASE STUDY FROM LATVIA?
Authors: Popluga Dina , Grinberga-Zalite Gunta
Published: February 2023

Awareness of the importance of sustainable agriculture has increased in recent decades. One of the reasons for this is the widespread use of synthetic pesticides and their possible secondary negative effects on valuable carnivores and biodiversity. Therefore, the need for biological and environmentally friendly alternatives to pest control has become relevant. This relevance is also reinforced by the European Union's Green Deal agenda and its underlying strategy - Farm to Fork, which aim to mitigate climate change, prevent biodiversity loss and feed Europeans healthily. This study aims to assess the attitude of the Latvian society, in particular specific stakeholder�s groups playing important role in food systems, towards the achievement of the goals set in the European Union�s Green Deal agenda regarding the reduction of pesticide use and the search for alternative ways of protecting harvests from pests and diseases. There are several important signals arising from the results of this study and timely response to them can help policy makers, scientists, consultants and practitioners to contribute in reaching EU Green Deal goals, to redesigning existing food systems and to promote greater use of safe alternative ways of protecting harvests from pests.
INVESTMENT AND EXPENDITURE OF FINANCIAL RESOURCES IN WASTE MANAGEMENT SECTOR
Authors: Mazure Gunita
Published: February 2023

The waste management sector as one of the most significant economic sectors requires effective management not only in Latvia but in the European Union as whole. According to the recent (2020) available Eurostat data, 505 kg of municipal waste per capita were generated in the EU of which 48% were recycled and 22% were landfilled. Latvia ranges in the 11th position among the EU Member States with 478 kg of generated waste per capita. Romania (287 kg), Poland (346 kg) and Hungary (364 kg) are countries having generated the lowest amounts of municipal waste per capita, while Denmark (845 kg) and Luxembourg (790 kg) have been the top countries with the highest amounts of generated municipal waste per capita in 2020. In Latvia, approximately 66% of generated waste were recycled and 19% were landfilled in 2020. Moving towards the green economy and following the EU Directive 2018/851 targets for recycling municipal waste the governments develop investment plans envisaging financial resources for the waste management sector. The research aim is to evaluate environmental protection expenditure in the context of waste management policy. The research employs statistical data analysis to study the problem elements and synthesise coherencies or formulate regularities. The research period covers the years from 2010 to 2020. Starting from 2018, Latvia has essentially increased amounts of total investment and current expenditure for waste collection and treatment. In 2020, investments have increased 3.9 times compared with 2018; thus, amounting to EUR 36 295 thousand, while the current expenditure has grown by 21.9% amounting to EUR 118 182 thousand. The proportion of investment in waste management has also essentially increased, i.e. from 19.50% in 2010 to 49.96% in 2020, while the respective growth for current expenditure has been more moderate, i.e. from 32.79% to 62.42% of total financial resources for environmental protection.
LOW-CARBON INDUSTRIAL POLICY IN TURBULENT TIMES: THE CASE OF RUSSIA
Authors: Kudryavtseva Olga , Kurdin Alexander , Yakovleva Ekaterina
Published: February 2023

The impact of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions on the increase in the average temperature on the planet and the risk of initiating irreversible processes are recognized by most of the scientific community as real threats to humanity. Many countries have a legal and institutional framework for a consistent industrial policy taking into account the climate and environmental components, including carbon accounting. Russia is a country with high intensity of production-based CO2 emissions. In is well-known that the industry generates necessary hence it induce demand for products from other sectors of the economy. Environmental and social parameters in the formation of industrial policy should not be considered as any limitations for the development of industry. Despite a serious change in the agenda for the industrial policy in recent years, caused by COVID-19 and by current geopolitical situation in the world, it is highly undesirable to lag behind in this area, since it is necessary for international cooperation and human technological development. Low-carbon areas correspond to the modern ideology of industrial policy for many countries. The novelty of the study is the evaluation of the total GHG (greenhouse gases) intensity of Russia`s industry by means of intersectoral model. The paper analyses some of industrial policy measures and their implementation that affect low-carbon economic development. The proposed study could be of interest for other economies aiming to reduce their carbon footprint.
PREDICTABLE AND STABLE TAX POLICY FOR THE BIOECONOMY SECTOR
Authors: Upite Ilze , Pilvere Irina , Nipers Aleksejs
Published: February 2023

The development of areas of bio-economy, which replace fossil fuels with bioresources in production and the provision of services, is important in many countries. Therefore, in 2017, the government approved the Latvian Bioeconomy Strategy 2030, which provides for four key integrated groups and one complementary group of measures to implement this strategy. As five years have passed since the strategy was approved in Latvia, it is necessary to assess the progress of its implementation. Therefore, the aim of the present research is to study one of the sections �Predictable and stable tax policy for the bioeconomy sector� for the implementation of the strategic goal of the Latvian Bioeconomy Strategy 2030 �Attractive business environment for entrepreneurship in the bioeconomy� in Latvia. The study concluded that the tax reforms implemented in Latvia in 2018 can be positively assessed and the bioeconomy sectors account for 25% of national tax revenues. The most significant investment is in the payment of corporate income tax (CIT) and in the field of compulsory state social insurance contributions (SSIAI), as the bioeconomy sectors account for 24% and 20% of the respective tax revenues to the state budget. In turn, the smallest share of bioeconomy sectors is in value added tax (VAT) payments, which are determined by the reduced VAT rates and the procedure of application of reverse VAT in certain sectors of production of bioresources and the provision of services. The tax system needs to be further assessed and improved, in particular as regards the ability of companies to adapt to the new EU Green Deal policy.
REPLACEMENT OF NON-RENEWABLE RESOURCES WITH SUSTAINABLE BIORESOURCES IN PUBLIC PROCUREMENT IN LATVIA
Authors: Upite Ilze , Pilvere Irina , Nipers Aleksejs
Published: February 2023

Public procurement is the acquisition of products and services needed for the public sector and involves significant public budget resources. Incorporating environmental requirements into public procurement promotes both the goals of sustainable development and the principles of the circular economy. Green public procurement practices are becoming increasingly important, not only in the world, but also in Latvia. Therefore, in 2017, the Latvian Bioeconomy Strategy 2030 was approved, which envisages the development of green procurement as an important factor for the implementation of this strategy. Therefore, the aim of the present research is to study one of the sections �Replacement of non-renewable resources with sustainable bioresources in public procurement� for the implementation of the strategic goal of the Latvian Bioeconomy Strategy 2030 �Attractive business environment for entrepreneurship in bioeconomy� in Latvia. The study found that since 2017, a system of regulatory enactments has been established in Latvia, which provides for certain groups of goods and services to which green procurement is mandatory in public procurement and groups of goods and services to which green public procurement is applicable on a voluntary basis. These product groups include important products produced and processed and services provided in the bioeconomy sectors. In general, the introduction of green public procurement procedures and requirements in Latvia is to be assessed positively, as in 2017-2020 the total amount of procurement has increased 3.1 times from EUR 282 million to EUR 867 million and in 2020 accounted for 17% of the total amount of public procurement. In turn, mandatory and voluntary green public procurement of goods and services has increased 3.2 times in the analysed period and accounted for 77% of the total amount of green public procurement, which promotes the development of bioeconomy in Latvia.
STUDY ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF FAGET AREA, TIMI? COUNTY, ROMANIA, BASED ON AREA-SPECIFIC RESOURCES
Authors: Sicoe-Murg Oana Maria , Mateoc Teodor , Mateoc-Sirb Nicoleta , Dincu Ana-Mariana , Sonca Bogdan
Published: February 2023

By developing this paper, we wanted to identify the opportunities for the growth and development of the Faget area in Romania, based on the specific resources available. Geographical location, natural and anthropogenic sites, as well as existing accommodation structures provide this area a high tourist potential. Natural landscapes, recreational areas, hunting, fishing, historical monuments, wooden churches, and natural resources are the most important attractions of the Faget area that can be valorised. The authors try to highlight in this paper the evolution of the tourist reception units in the analyzed area. We try to highlight other very important aspects of the analyzed area such as the total capacity of tourist accommodation in operation, the arrivals of tourists in the structures of tourist reception, but also the situation of overnight stays in these structures. Through this paper we want to point out how much the pandemic has influenced the tourism activity in the Faget area, but also its influence on accommodation structures. For this study we had to visit the analyzed area to see the real situation. We talked to the residents and the owners of accommodation units who presented us the real situation. Due to the information and data received from them, we were able to present the situation in the area, both before the pandemic and during the pandemic years. The authors of the paper have come to the conclusion that the promotion of the Faget area through tourism will allow its economic development by increasing people�s employment rate and incomes, which will lead to an increase in the quality of life of the inhabitants.
THE DEVELOPMENT AND COMPETITIVENESS OF TNE BIOECONOMY AND ORGANIC FARMING IN LATVIA
Authors: Libkovska Una , Resele Liene , Ozola Inta , Zonenberga Ieva
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study is to identify opportunities for the development of the bioeconomy in Latvia, assessing its role in the development of the agricultural sector. Nowadays, the development and sustainability of natural resources are of great importance. The bioeconomy can be considered as one of the oldest sectors of the economy, which life sciences and biotechnology can transform into one of the most modern sectors of the economy. From a number of perspectives, one of Latvia's development opportunities is the more sustainable and efficient use of natural resources. The bioeconomy provides a combined approach to integrating knowledge-based economic growth, social welfare and environmental protection in agriculture, forestry and fisheries, respecting the principles of the circular economy. The aim of this paper is to provide information on a study carried out to investigate and analyse the development perspectives of the bioeconomy and organic farming in Latvia. The research methodology includes theoretical concepts and a framework of factors influencing the bioeconomy. The study uses the Delphi method, collects data from expert interviews and surveys, uses the Porter's hypothesis method, and analyses the competitiveness of organic farming enterprises in Latvia based on Porter's five forces method. The development of the bioeconomy is mainly related to the production and efficient processing of bioresources. Rural areas and regions are therefore the ones with the greatest potential for development. Research data show that the growth of the bioeconomy will contribute to the development of Latvia's rural areas and regions and that Latvian organic farming enterprises have great potential.
THE BULGARIAN CONSUMER AS PART OF THE EUROPEAN INITIATIVE FOR GREEN CARS
Authors: Mihaleva Hristina , Atanasova Svetla
Published: February 2023

In the context of the issues discussed within, it can be noted that the main objective of this paper is related to the presentation of the European Union as one of the leading producers of green cars, whose goal is to reduce harmful emissions to protect the environment. Based on the plinth thus built, the opinion of the Bulgarian consumer on the presented European initiative should be clarified. The main objective thus launched requires the consistent clarification of the following tasks: to present the European Union as one of the leading producers of green cars; to conduct a survey among 500 car owners; to process the results obtained; to assess the attitudes and follow the opinions of the respondents on the discussed issues; to draw conclusions and generalizations related to the current research interest. The subsequent report seeks answers related to climate change, rising fuel prices, and the impending global crisis caused by various force majeure circumstances. This makes it possible to track the attitudes of the Bulgarian consumer regarding the possible transition from a conventional car to an electric, thus supporting the launched European initiative. The research interest is aroused by the emergence of more and more questions regarding the proposed problem.
The basis of this practical study is based on the following hypotheses: the main cars used by the Bulgarian consumer are with an internal combustion engine; the price is determined as a major factor in the choice of an electric car; the additional subsidy from the state may be an additional motivator for the Bulgarian consumer to obtain an electric car.
THE EFFICIENCY OF ENERGY CONSUMPTION ON DAIRY FARMS IN LATVIA
Authors: Bratka Valda , Praulins Arturs
Published: February 2023

As rising temperature, climate changes and growing greenhouse gas emissions are viewed as inevitable consequences of burning fossil fuels, energy consumers in different sectors of national economy are expected to contribute to the optimization of their energy consumption. Therefore, farmers need to develop sustainable means of agricultural production that are able to meet strict requirements for higher efficiency. The study aims to fill the gap in the literature by exploring the consumption of energy per livestock unit and per hectare of the utilized agricultural area on dairy farms of various sizes since Latvia�s accession to the EU. Our analysis is based on statistical data obtained from SUDAT � a national system that constitutes an integral part of the EU Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN). The findings show that the efficiency of energy consumption considerably varies across the sector. It testifies to flexible approaches successfully adopted by milk producers who pragmatically combine various types of farming ranging from conventional to environmentally friendly practices.
THE ROLE OF ECO MANAGEMENT IN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROCESSES IN LATVIA
Authors: Libkovska Una , Lemss Ivo
Published: February 2023

Research will focus on investments for the development of the company. Transition to the circular economy is understood in many cases only as an unnecessary obstacle, not as the new business model. Production based on the linear model "take, make, dispose of" is not possible anymore based on decreased environmental quality. Increased production efficiency could help promote the company's prestige, gain tax allowances, create optimistic co-operation with the state, municipality, and maintain sustainability in terms of the balance achieved between economic, environmental and social interests. Although the research until now is in an early stage, some answers had been received from questionnaire from different stakeholders. The research purpose is to create an adapted model for the implementation of the circular economy for the small and medium enterprises of Latvia in a long-term perspective. Research will focus on the following qualitative data analysis methods � SWOT, factor, economic contribution, structured interviews at expert level, overall structured interview in the form of the questionnaire. From quantitative methods, hierarchical cluster or partial cluster method will be used in this research, analysing 3966 organisations in the Eco-Management and audit scheme (from now on � EMAS) at the European level that ensure compliance with the essential environmental requirements under EMAS Regulation. Until now within the research, the number of EMAS organisations have been selected between 29 different countries in 5 sectors (energy, water, waste management, food industry, port terminals), allowing to make the cross-country comparison and describe the involvement level of EMAS in each country. Before using the cluster method, it is essential to assess the cluster trend and whether the cluster method is suitable for research data. The next step will involve using a hierarchical cluster or partial cluster method (a certain number of clusters will be created). It is necessary to use different techniques to evaluate and interpret the created cluster results in future work.
WAYS TO CAPITALIZE ON BIODIVERSITY THROUGH TOURISM
Authors: Andrei Madalina-Teodora , Simon Tamara
Published: February 2023

Biodiversity can be defined as the diversity of ecosystems, expressed as symbioses, habitats, landscapes, species diversity and genetic diversity within species, i.e. the totality of the gene pool that constitutes nature at the global level. In the current period, but especially in the last half century, there has been a steady loss of biodiversity with major consequences for the living world and severe impacts on human society. Biodiversity is a fundamental basis for human existence and humanity is itself a part of biodiversity and our existence in the world would be impossible without it. Quality of life, economic competitiveness, workforce and security all rely on this biodiversity, which can be seen as natural capital. Through this prism, biodiversity can be sustainably exploited through certain types of tourism. Initially, its exploitation started with rural tourism, ecotourism. The expansion of these types of tourism beyond certain limits has led to unsustainable exploitation of natural resources, despite claims of minor impact on nature. In this context, it can be said that in the near future, the most recommended type of tourism will be nature tourism, which excludes the construction of tourist structures near or within all protected areas so as not to damage the integrity of the natural environment and not to degrade the natural capital resources on which economic and social development is based.
ACADEMIC PERFECTIONISM IN TEACHING TECHNICAL ENGLISH TO UNIVERSITY STUDENTS SPECIALIZING IN NATURAL RESOURCES PROCESSING
Authors: Filyasova Yulia A.
Published: February 2023

The problem of academic perfectionism in teaching technical English at a higher education institution stems from a number of external and internal factors � the current educational targets set by managing social groups and student ambitions. The research methods included the analysis of objectives, contents and teaching methods intended for the first and second year bachelor degree students. The findings show that the target competence, being focused on the technical English, also incorporates the ability to solve communicative tasks in a wide variety of social and business situations. Therefore, pedagogical activity is determined by three vast areas � technical English, general English, and business communication. Academic perfectionism has certain distinctions depending on the level of student communicative competence. At the beginner level academic perfectionism is caused by the intention to reach ambitious educational goals for a short period of time. However, at the advanced level the ultimate goal is undefined. Academic perfectionism is determined by student motivation and the immense language material in the technical areas available for perfecting language skills. In either case, academic perfectionism poses risks of workaholism and burnout.
CIVIL ENGINEERING STUDENTS� MISCONCEPTIONS ON PRINCIPLES OF GEOLOGY
Authors: Giotopoulos Georgios , Skopeliti Irini , Koukouvelas Ioannis , Economou Polychronis , Gianni Eleni , Papoulis Dimitrios
Published: February 2023

Previous studies have shown that secondary school students may have misconceptions about geological scientific information. By the end of secondary education these misconceptions may remain unresolved. As a result, students enter university studies and still hold them. Students of engineering, as for example civil engineering, are no exception. The aim of this study was to investigate and analyse misconceptions of this specific target group. A closed questionnaire was designed and given to 102 University students who attended the 2nd semester course �Geology for Civil Engineers� in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Patras. The questionnaire was designed and validated according to previous research findings and implemented through google forms that were prepared and given electronically to the students to fill them online. The participants completed the questionnaire on the principles of geology electronically due to Covid-19 conditions. The results showed that in some questions most of the students answered correctly while in others there were many wrong answers, which revealed their misconceptions in geology. Many misconceptions were traced especially regarding mineral properties like color and luster. An important observation was that a notable number of students confused hardness with brittleness and as a result they expressed their belief that hard minerals are hard to break. Gender and age differences were tested using appropriate statistical tests. In cases that there was a significant difference between the genders, women were the ones with higher percentage of correct answers. The results may be seen in relation to educational practices.
INTERGENERATION DIGITAL COMPETENCE SHARING
Authors: Lojda Jan
Published: February 2023

The article discusses the issue of intergenerational tension in the collaboration of differently old colleagues. It is a follow-up to the outputs of the research project �Intergenerational Management in Support of Digitalization in the Building Industry� financed by Technological Agency of the Czech Republic. The author focuses on the problems of intergenerational cooperation and analyze the current situation from the point of view of generations division according to typical generational behavior. The solution is based on a model of intergenerational cooperation based on improving communication between generations and sharing digital competences. When modelling inter-generational collaboration, willingness to cooperate is a key issue. The article focuses on the causes of intergenerational tension, which has its roots in the current social climate and the rejection of authorities. The research project shows the way how to deal with the situation in companies introducing digital data processing and offers a relatively simple solution that aims to improve intergenerational cooperation and digital competence sharing in order to increase the competitiveness of companies. At the same time, it offers the way how to effectively use older employees and offer them job satisfaction.
CHALLENGE FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DO NOT SIGNIFICANTLY HARM PRINCIPLE IN THE EUROPEAN UNION FUNDED RAIL PROJECTS IN BULGARIA
Authors: Nitova Darina , Markov Yasen
Published: February 2023

The European Green Deal has an overarching aim of making Europe climate neutral in 2050. The goal is to reduce EU's greenhouse gas emissions for 2030 to at least 50% and towards 55% compared with 1990 levels. Its goals extend to many different sectors, including construction, biodiversity, energy, transport and food and includes carbon tariffs for countries that don't curtail their greenhouse gas pollution at the same rate. On 18 June 2020, the Taxonomy Regulation for climate change mitigation and adaptation was published in the Official Journal. In December 2020 was adopted the new EU Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy, whereas its sustainable mobility element envisages an irreversible shift to zero-emission mobility by making all transport modes more sustainable. In February 2021 the EC issued technical guidance on the application of �do no significant harm� under the Recovery and Resilience Facility Regulation, and in September 2021 an explanatory note on the application of the principle under Cohesion Policy. The Recovery and Resiliency Facility Plan of Republic of Bulgaria was approved in April 2022 and Transport Connectivity Programme should be approved by the end of 2022 as well. This article discusses the challenges for the implementation of the EU guidance documents for the case of the EU co-funded rail sector projects in Bulgaria. In particular the identified cohesion policy projects are discussed and a particular project is analyzed. As a result some challenges and conclusions are formulated.
ENVIRONMENTAL STRATEGY AND POLICY OF MUNICIPAL SOCIETY
Authors: Zyder Vaclav , Ocko Petr , Mosova Daniela
Published: February 2023

Environmental policy is a relatively young science that originated in the late 60's and early 70's. The term environmental policy is used not only to describe national, international, global, regional or local environmental policy. Today, environmental policy is formulated by a number of other entities, primarily political parties, but also entities of the business sphere or the public sector. The Industrial Revolution is considered to be a fundamental milestone in the dynamics of human society's development, scope and manner of use and disruption of the environment and its functions. The extent of the use of the environment has been steadily growing rapidly. All company activities always affect the environment in some way. Activities related to industry, trade, transport and agriculture can be a source of high pressure on the environment. Considerate and responsible behavior with respect to the environment can be expected for companies due to legislative regulations requiring such behavior or this behavior is in line with the goal of making a profit. The aim of this paper is the environmental policy of the municipal company and its outputs, which are applied in the company's practice.
LEGAL MODELS AND PROBLEMS IN PRIVATE AGRICULTURAL LAND USE IN BULGARIA
Authors: Marinova Bisserka
Published: February 2023

This paper provides a detailed picture of the existing legislation of agricultural land use by entities who do not own it in Bulgaria and makes specific suggestions to improve it, aiming at creating a legislative framework enhancing productivity and sustainability.
The study is briefly considering the historical and economic factors for the development of the case law in line with the legal framework in thiscontext. Attention is also paid to the goals of the European Union (EU) to provide properconditions for technologicalization of agricultural production, investment in irrigation and other equipment, obtaining external financing, alongside with ensuring profitable sale of production. Undisputedly there is a need to strike a balance between the interests of private land owners and the broader public, by creating a legal basis (through legal and administrative measures) governing the actual use and cultivation of agricultural land.The paper further examines and discusses a number of on-going issues, i.e. the legal status of existing agricultural cooperatives; the consolidation of agricultural land by creating land use plots;the so called �white spots� of undeclared land; the options of leasehold versus renting of agricultural landand its legal framework.
The conclusion contains a general analysis of the proposals for changes in the regulatory environmentin the observed area to achieve more efficient and sustainable use of agricultural land. The contribution of the report is to show the variety of models of land use in agriculture and their differences, analyzing the actual legal framework and giving concrete proposals for improving it. Comparative method, synthesis and analysis are used while inspecting the area of research.
SPECIFIC FEATURES OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT POLICY AND ITS IMPACT ON REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Authors: Ivanov Metodi
Published: February 2023

The environmental management system should be considered as part of the overall management system. This involves looking at the organizational structure, planning activities, responsibilities, practices, procedures, processes and resources for developing, implementing, achieving, reviewing and maintaining environmental policy. Basic principles and requirements of the environmental management system are aimed at identifying, researching, controlling and reviewing the factors influencing the environment, which allow businesses and public organizations to formulate policies and objectives aimed at protection of the environment. By introducing an environmental management system, organizations simultaneously declare, declare their commitment and guarantee to society as a whole that they are genuinely committed to solving environmental problems. European environmental policy is based on the principle of precautionary measures, preventive action and the elimination of pollution at source, as well as on the principle of "polluter pays". The European Union has the power to take action on all matters of environmental policy such as air and water pollution, waste management and climate change. Although some powers are limited as a result of the principle of subsidiarity and the requirement for unanimous agreement in the Council on fiscal issues, issues related to urban and spatial planning, land use, quantitative management of water resources, choice of energy sources and the structure of energy supply. The purpose of this article is to present specific features of environmental management policy and its impact on regional development in developing countries.
THE MODEL FOR ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE GOVERNANCE IN LATVIA
Authors: Krukle Zanda
Published: February 2023

Environmental noise can cause a negative impact on human health physiologically and psychologically, interfering with sleep, rest, concentration, communication and other activities. The article study of possible solutions on how to prevent and reduce environmental noise through governance practices in Latvia, developing strategic, practice-based model for environmental noise governance, which has not been done prior to this study. This research is based on several objectives, including a comprehensive analysis of governance policies and established practices in Europe and Latvia in the field of legislation, institutional systems, society feedback governance, and practical government approaches. Empirical and statistical data analysis, documentation analysis, sociological research, and case study methods have been used for this purpose, including the analysis of both acoustic and non-acoustic aspects. The results showed that environmental noise governance issues in Latvia are mainly related to the high subjective noise perception, a poor understanding of environmental noise, low prioritization and ineffective implementation and monitoring of the existing noise governance policies. Taking into account the mentioned factors, an integrated comprehensive and multi-level practice based environmental noise governacne model (that consist of national, municipal and coordination sub-models) has been proposed and described.
Development of accounting learning media based on wetland environment for high school students in South Kalimantan
Authors: Eka Chandra Noor , Rizky Maulana , Bariroh Lufna , Irvan Arista Abdul
Published: February 2023

This study aims to develop a wetland-based accounting learning media for high school students in South Kalimantan. This study measures the feasibility of learning media developed with the validation of media experts and practitioners. The form of research and development uses model ADDIE which consists of five stages, namely analysis (analysis), design (design), development (development), implementation (implementation), and evaluation (evaluation). The instruments used are validation sheets and student response questionnaires. The method used in data collection is interviews for initial research data and validation. The research step of the learning media development process starts from stage (1) Analysis, The analysis stage is the stage of analyzing the need for the development of new learning models/methods and analyzing the feasibility and requirements of developing new learning models/methods. The analysis phase includes curriculum analysis and student characteristics analysis. (2) Design, At this stage, the design of learning media development is carried out in the form of an initial design that is in accordance with the analysis that has been done previously. (3) Development, the development stage is the stage of product realization that is ready to be implemented. (4) Implementation, at this stage, the implementation is carried out in a limited manner at the designated school as the research site. (5) Evaluation, at this stage, researchers make revisions to the developed media based on criticism and suggestions obtained from the response questionnaire or field notes.