bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mutual learning for sustainability
Authors: Ferrer‐Balas D. , Buckland H. 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between the Technical University of Catalonia (UPC) and RCE‐Barcelona in the context of two organisations with a strategic aim to further Education for Sustainable Development. A special emphasis is put in the role that UPC has had in the creation and development of this project, understood as a regional, multisectorial network that aims to reinforce the Universities' own commitment and leadership in ESD.Design/methodology/approachTwo main methodological approaches are used. The evolution of RCE strategic projects in its two years of existence is analysed through the FLA systems approach, while the demand on ESD (and particularly that of the Education and Sustainability Magazine) in the region is explored through an electronic questionnaire sent to 1,000 people.FindingsThe study shows that the strategy of RCE Barcelona has evolved from a focus on diversity of participation to concrete activities based on common objectives with the communication of outputs rather than structures as being more practical and effective. The production of a magazine with input from actors from different levels of education and diverse sectors (based around key sustainability themes) is proving to be a useful resource for educators. Shared governance of the network and a more balanced share of resources and responsibilities amongst members remain a challenge, and as with other RCEs there is still limited evidence of the added value of being part of the global network of RCEs.Originality/valueThis study uses a systems based analytical methodology which is adaptable to the context of any sustainability initiative within higher education. The initiation of a thematic‐based sustainability magazine targeted at educators of formal and non formal education is considered as an innovative initiative.
Why and how do universities work for sustainability in higher education (HE)?
Authors: Axelsson Harriet , Sonesson Kerstin , Wickenberg Per 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to open up a discussion about the roles and responsibilities of universities in society.Design/methodology/approachThe vision of the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) Skane a leading example on how to develop new knowledge about education for sustainable development (ESD) at all levels. The paper poses the question “Why do universities involve in this process?”. Lund University as the old, traditional university and the ten‐year old university of Malmö on the other hand was formed on the bases of a vision about a university for all people.FindingsThe paper finds that two universities have been active in creating RCE Skane, together with three political organizations. The vision has developed to include issues like capacity for cross‐boundary action, knowledge‐sharing and civic education, all important parts in learning for a sustainable future.Practical implicationsThe paper discusses the processes at these universities that led up to working together in RCE Skåne and the importance of having the Act on Higher Education in 2006 about responsibility for education for sustainability at all universities.Originality/valueIn forming RCEs all over the world it is important to learn from each other and universities play an important role in these actions.
Contribution of Kobe University to the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Hyogo‐Kobe
Authors: Itoh Masayuki , Suemoto Makoto , Matsuoka Koji , Ito Atsushi , Yui Kiyomitsu , Matsuda Tsuyoshi , Ishikawa Masanobu 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) on education for sustainable development (ESD) Hyogo‐Kobe, and the contribution of Kobe University as a model case. An attempt to develop and implement a new ESD programme in higher education is also reported.Design/methodology/approachA brief description of RCE Hyogo‐Kobe, which was approved in 2007, is followed by the description of the contribution of Kobe University to the RCE's starting phase to date and in the near future. The initiative of establishing the RCE as well as the design and implementation of the ESD programme developed through the collaboration of three faculties: the Faculty of Human Development, the Faculty of Letters, and the Faculty of Economics. The programme focuses on students carrying out participatory action research enabled by collaboration with regional stakeholders on ESD and SD.FindingsInterdisciplinary collaboration was found to be essential in creating an innovative education programme in higher education. Activities and projects on ESD that existed earlier played important roles in the initiative, in formation of the network, and in directing RCE activities.Originality/valueInformation from the case study will be useful in the establishment and development of an RCE through the initiative of an institute of higher education.
Regional Centre of Expertise as transformational platform for sustainability
Authors: Abidin Sanusi Zainal , Khelghat‐Doost Hamoon 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to share the experience of Universiti Sains Malaysia in promoting the sustainable development agenda through its leadership role in the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) Penang using an “inside‐out approach”.Design/methodology/approachThis paper describes the institutional structure, policies and programme within the campus, and activities carried out with the surrounding community to promote sustainable development.FindingsBeing part of the RCE network provides various reciprocal benefits. One, it provides a greater opportunity and an impetus for the university to transform itself into an agent of sustainable development. Two, it serves as an excellent platform for the university‐community partnership programme which brings the two closer together. Three, it improves the university's reputation and allows it to participate in regional and global discussions on sustainability and the sustainable development agenda.Practical implicationsThis paper provides an example of establishing and promoting education for sustainable development through university research, teaching and learning as well as community engagement.Originality/valueThe format of the main discussion is offered as a potential model for adoption by others engaged in education for sustainability.
An appraisal of analytic network process and its role in sustainability assessment in Northern Italy
Authors: Bottero Marta , Mondini Giulio 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe aim of the paper is to assess an urban transformation project in Italy, from a sustainability point of view. Taking into consideration alternative solutions for the project (zero option, initial project and final project), the paper highlights the most important elements for the sustainability evaluation and the best solution for the transformation.Design/methodology/approachThe sustainability assessment of the transformation project is performed using a particular multicriteria analysis, the analytic network process (ANP). Multi‐criteria techniques provide a useful support when a choice must be made among several alternatives with different objectives and criteria and also allow one to include tangible and intangible factors in the evaluation. The ANP is used to derive relative priority scales of absolute numbers from individual judgments and it offers a general framework to deal with complex decisions which provides a comparison of the different options.FindingsThe priority list of the alternatives gives a great deal of importance to the final project, with respect to the other possibilities. With reference to the most relevant criteria for the sustainability of the project, the problems related to energy efficiency, the aspects concerning the landmark and the new services for the inhabitants were given the most importance.Practical implicationsThe procedure described in the paper is suitable for dealing with the complexity of the problem, in a transparent way, taking into consideration the multiplicity of the aspects involved and the presence of several stakeholders in the decision‐making process.Originality/valueThis study is one of the first examples of the application of the ANP to the field of urban transformation at an international level.
Direct and indirect impact of the tourism industry on drylands: the example of Southern Tunisia
Authors: Dłuzewska Anna 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to attempt to answer the question of how tourism influences the behaviours connected with natural environment.Design/methodology/approachThe research is based on the example of the attitude towards water usage among indigenous inhabitants of the Douz, Tozeur and Nefta oases in southern Tunisia. The research was conducted on the basis of the methodology of cultural anthropology, such as indirect and direct observation, verified in the time period between 1983 and 2006, partially categorized questionnaire interviews with natives of Douz, Tozeur and Nefta oases (43 people altogether). A supplement to the questionnaire interviews with natives was the research conducted in a group of hotel managers and tourists. As far as the information on water economy is concerned the author's work is grounded on research conducted simultaneously in the same area by another team as well as on a research conducted in similar environmental conditions.FindingsThe development of the tourism sector in the south of Tunisia started simultaneously with investments in artesian wells and pipelines transporting water to irrigate the oases. Therefore, it is difficult to estimate explicitly to what extent the behaviours concerning water economy were influenced by the investments and to what extent by tourism. Tourism has, however, undoubtedly the function of a “starting factor” which initiated a change in the traditional attitude towards water. As a result, the behaviours of indigenous inhabitants of the dry areas are subject to violent transformation – the highest water usage (often water waste) is observable in the agricultural sector, not in the tourism sector. It is worth emphasizing that the fatal consequences are often provoked not by the tourists' behaviours, but by the behaviour of the hotel staff – frequent filling of swimming pools, excessive watering of hotel gardens – which is being observed by indigenous inhabitants.Practical implicationsThe lack restrictions concerning water consumption may undoubtedly lead to “self‐destruction of tourism”. Tunisian Government should definitely intervene in these matters (e.g. through the introduction of water usage restrictions for hoteliers).Originality/valueShowing the interconnections between the development of the tourism sector specializing in mass tourism services and increased water consumption in the agricultural sector in dry areas.
An analysis of product properties affecting performance of end‐of‐life systems for electrical and electronics equipment
Authors: Johansson Glenn , Huge Brodin Maria 
Published: October 2008

PurposeOn the basis of empirical studies, the purpose of this paper is to identify and analyse product properties that affect performance of end‐of‐life systems for electrical and electronic equipment (EEE).Design/methodology/approachThe research was carried out as case studies of end‐of‐life management of EEE. Case A focused on disassembly of computer screens and TV‐sets, whereas Case B addressed logistics systems for recycling of various types of EEE. Data collection methods include interviews, on‐site visits and observations, video recording, and studies of documents.FindingsIn total, nine product properties that affect performance of end‐of‐life systems for EEE are identified. The properties relate to three different product levels: the product assortment, the product structure, and the component levels. A model is presented which indicates that choices made and decisions taken in the product development process affect the end‐of‐life system performance. Application of modular product architectures and component standardisation are suggested as relevant design strategies during product development.Practical implicationsThe implications for managers are that the findings presented in this paper provide strengthened arguments that modular product architectures and component standardisation are favourable approaches to apply in product development. Complementary to the benefits for manufacturing and logistics also end‐of‐life system performance will improve when these approaches are applied.Originality/valuePrevious research has indicated some product properties that are supposed to influence performance of end‐of‐life systems. These properties originate primarily from conceptual discussions rather than empirical studies. This paper adds to current understanding by presenting empirically‐based insights regarding which specific product properties affect performance.
An assessment of energetic efficiency improvement of existing building envelopes in Italy
Authors: Brunoro Silvia 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to remark the importance of sustainable technologies in the façade renewal of existing buildings in order to fit their energetic performance to different climatic inputs, following the new European Energy Standards for energy savings.Design/methodology/approachTechnical data and typical examples of upgrading interventions in the direction of the passive solar gaining, natural cooling and other relevant sustainable technologies for building envelopes are presented and critically examined.FindingsThe energy failure in existing buildings is mainly due to the poor insulating efficiency of the façades. Making use of hi‐tech envelopes, not only the energetic balance, but also the architectural value of a building can be improved.Practical implicationsArchitects and builders can use the advices from this study in determining the advantages of up‐to‐date technologies in the enhancement of the energetic performance of buildings.Originality/valueExamples presented in this paper indicate how sustainable technologies, that are commonly used in new constructions where the concept starts from a low‐environmental impact, can be also employed in the refurbishment of existing buildings, which is the main challenge for the global reduction of CO2. An overview on the main technical of intervention can indicate to architects and planners the potentiality for the improvement of the existing buildings, in order to reduce the overall energy balance.
Managing Lake Kariba sustainably: threats and challenges
Authors: Tumbare Michael James 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to communicate and share experiences with stakeholders on how the sustainability threats and challenges associated with managing Lake Kariba and the Kariba Dam wall are being managed by the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA).Design/methodology/approachThe case study area is Lake Kariba and Kariba Dam wall located in the mid‐Zambezi river basin. The data and information for the case study is from ZRAs own records.FindingsThe case study concludes that the threats and challenges so far experienced have been mitigated adequately with management programmes and tools having been put in place. However, a lot still needs to be done to improve the socio‐economic living conditions of the displaced Tonga/Korekore people.Originality/valueLake Kariba was created in the late 1950s to provide water primarily for hydro‐power production. However, this water resource now serves many users and has its sustainability threats; invasive weeds, water pollution, cyclic drought and flood events, the competing uses and multiple legislative provisions. The Kariba Dam wall, as an engineering structure, has its own sustainability challenges; effects of alkaline aggregate reaction, the spillway plunge pool stability and the general ageing of the dam structure. The Tonga/Korekore people, who were displaced on both banks of the Zambezi River when Kariba Dam was built, still feel short‐changed. Stakeholders will be able to associate and relate to similar threats, challenges and experiences and use the management solutions being applied at Kariba. The opinions and conclusions drawn in this case study are those of the author.
Corporate governance research: a contingency framework
Authors: Dedman Elisabeth , Filatotchev Igor 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this editorial is to discuss the problems inherent in examining the effectiveness of corporate governance without explicit consideration of the environment faced by firms. It advocates a contingency approach to the research area, illustrating its ideas by reference to the research papers contained in this issue.Design/methodology/approachThe paper discusses several papers in the literature, placing the papers in this special issue in context, and making recommendations for future research.FindingsIt is apparent that the mixed results from the vast body of research in corporate governance are potentially due to failure to adequately consider all factors affecting optimal governance practice.Research implicationsResearchers should beware of assuming research findings from one environment will be replicated in another environment.Policy implicationsPolicy makers should not assume that transferring “best practice” from one regime to another will lead to the same outcomes
Creating knowledge‐based innovation in China
Authors: Lu Lucy 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThis research paper attempts to address the strategic challenges of developing knowledge‐based innovation (KBI) in China through the analysis of the triple helix (TH) innovation networks between university, government and industry in China. In so doing, the TH model is adopted as an analytical framework to investigate the format and operations of knowledge networks within university, government and industry during the economic transitions in China.Design/methodology/approachThe paper incorporates field observation, interviews with senior government officials, desk research on various government policy document as well as critical review of the existing literature related to KBI and the TH model in order to build up the strategic overview of the current state of KBI in China.FindingsBased on the critical literature review and interviews, it is identified that the formation and operation of knowledge production system in China on the one hand reflects the three dimensions within TH model: normative control (government), wealth generation (industry) and novelty production (university and public research institutions), on the other hand highlights dynamic institutional interactions and transformational processes in creating the knowledge economy. The key factors that have an effect on the inter‐institutional relations and evolutions of different knowledge functions within the TH innovation networks, have also been identified and manifested in the proposed theoretical framework of the knowledge production system in China.Originality/valueThe originality of the paper rests in addressing the strategic implications of TH innovation model for developing KBI in China, and highlighting the challenges facing both policy makers and innovation managers in terms of managing the organizational and institutional changes during the process of knowledge creation.
A multiple‐perspective model for technology assessment
Authors: Zhang Jing , Daim Tugrul U. , Choi Byung‐Chul , Phan Kenny 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a multiple‐perspective model for technology assessment, apply it to mobile broadband technologies selection in China and give recommendations based on the assessment results.Design/methodology/approachA multiple‐perspective model for technology assessment using HDM is developed based on literature review and experts suggestions. Data are collected from a survey on China telecom experts.FindingsTD‐SCDMA got the highest score because of its potential political and social effects, and WCDMA and CDMA2000 following with close scores. While for WiMAX and 4G, Chinese experts showed relatively lack of confidence.Originality/valueThis paper presents a new multiple‐perspective model that can be generally applied to technology assessment problems at organizational level.
Breaking into China's design and construction market
Authors: Zou Patrick X.W. , Wong Alison 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThe aims of this research are to identify the opportunities and risks and develop effective business strategies for foreign design and construction management companies to penetrate into the Chinese market.Design/methodology/approachTen interviews with directors of design, construction and engineering firms who are operating in China were carried out. It also include a literature review.FindingsThe results show that the interviewees were very optimistic about the China market and believed that establishing wholly foreign‐owned enterprises was the most effective entry mode. The research also found that “differentiation strategy by providing niche or superior products or services” is the fundamental and best strategy for penetrating into China market. In addition, the research found that the foreign companies must cultivate a network of contacts (i.e. Guanxi) and be culturally adaptive to have a competitive advantage in China.Originality/valuethis paper is original in that it provides insight from the first hand face‐to‐face interviews who have been operating successfully in the Chinese market. With the entry to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and its rapid economy growth, China presents the world enormous opportunities virtually in every industry sector including the design, and construction industry. Due to the complex and dynamic nature of the Chinese market, there are risks associated with these opportunities. The foreign companies entering into China market must develop capability to assess the opportunities, analyse the risks, and make informed decisions concerning market entry mode and business development strategies.
The effects of country‐of‐origin on Chinese consumers' wine purchasing behaviour
Authors: Hu Xiaoling , Li Leeva , Xie Charlene , Zhou Jun 
Published: October 2008

PurposeThis research is designed to explore Chinese customers' wine purchasing behaviours and to investigate the effect of country‐of‐origin (COO) information on their wine evaluations.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from the shopping malls both in Shanghai and Hangzhou, China, using the systematic sampling method. A total 148 usable questionnaires were returned and analysed by SPSS.FindingsThe results confirmed that Chinese customers consider COO as the most important factor in their wine evaluation when a single‐cue approach is applied. When a multi‐cue approach is used however the results showed that there was no significant difference in the importance in COO and price as indicators. This research also revealed some salient characteristics of Chinese consumers buying behaviour associated with Chinese culture. When the Chinese are evaluating wine for gift giving and consuming wine in public, they tend to attach more importance to COO than to other variables and are more likely to purchase foreign or imported wine instead of domestic brands.Research limitations/implicationsOnly respondents from Shanghai and Hangzhou were chosen, limiting the representativeness of the sample. Future research will be benefited from increased sample size from different geographical regions and by examining the relationship between the consumer demographic characteristics and the COO effects.Originality/valueThe results from this study stand in contrast to previous studies relating to the role of COO in product evaluation. It illustrates the importance of culture in relation to COO.