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The Indian subcontinent is highly susceptible to natural disasters. To abate the effect of the disasters, the government emanates institutional mechanisms and strategies for disaster preparedness, mitigation and response. Although there is well-established institutional framework in India for disaster management, there is no study that proposes a disaster supply chain structure under the institutional framework and integrates information and digital technologies (IDT) of industry 4.0 within it. The present study overcomes this research gap. It introduces an IDT structure within the institutional framework of India for multi-agency information sharing, coordination and decision making. It formulates a mathematical model and analyses the impact of IDT on the total response time through three scenarios. The results of scenario analysis reveal the significance of IDT on the disaster supply chains and its capability to handle information delays and IDT failure. The present study can be adopted by disaster management institutions to construct and implement better response practices at the operational, planning and strategic levels. Furthermore, the proposed model in the study can be used for vaccination planning, which includes vaccine distribution, monitoring, regulation and effective implmentation as a response against the current pandemic situation caused due to SARS-CoV-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving significance and sustainability in land administration systems (LASs) requires that LASs be ‘fit-for-purpose.’ There is an increased need for institutional and legal reform to provide significant and sustainable LASs. These reforms will be beneficial to peri-urban dwellers. Achieving success in this reform will require collaboration between customary and statutory institutions and the people. This study assesses Ekiti State’s land administration systems using the institutional and legal framework of Fit-for-purpose land administration (FFPLA). The study limits the assessment to two frameworks as the study's objectives relate to institutions and the legal framework of land administration systems. Primary and secondary data about land administration systems in Ekiti State were collected. In-depth interviews were conducted about land administration systems in Ekiti State. Using the structure of the FFPLA, the results reveal the need for improvement in the institution and legal framework for land administration. The discussion was made from the case study findings, which were then used to develop a score table. There is no flexible framework designed along administrative lines; individual ownership prevails over a continuum of tenure. There is a provision for a formal land registration system that excludes most peri-urban dwellers. There is still some form of gender discrimination regarding land and property rights. An overlap in functions and responsibilities of land administration institutions causes fragmentation in Ekiti State. The study is essential for policymakers, professionals, and academics reforming LASs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] Concession system is a new path to realize scientific protection and rational development of wetland resource assets, and it is also a key practice of ecological civilization construction in the new era. Analyzing the research framework, characteristics, and development trends of wetland concession systems both domestically and internationally can provide scientific reference for the pilot work of wetland concession system in China. It also holds significant theoretical and practical implications for the study of natural resource asset delegation and agency mechanisms. [Methods] This paper combines systematic review with bibliometric methods, utilizing CiteSpace software for co-occurrence visualization analysis, to summarize the characteristics of wetland concession system research, identify existing issues, and propose prospects for future research on wetland concession systems. [Results] The results show that: (1) Studies in China follow the line of object-relationship-mechanism, while international studies focus on concession-environmental-individual; (2) Studies in China have undergone three stages of change, with increasing policy guidance orientation. The change of international studies is less distinct, with a stronger focus on problem analysis; (3) In terms of institutional arrangement and policy recommendations, both Chinese and international studies are based on the inductive method, but there are methodological differences in problem-oriented perspective; (4) The wetland concession system with Chinese characteristics includes a multi-level rights and responsibility system, multi-stakeholder collaborative participation system, multi-path value realization system, and multi-type managemental guarantee system, featuring systematicity and high efficiency. [Conclusion] In the context of exploring the pilot wetland concession system and the current situation that practice is leading theoretical research, this article proposed to conduct a problem-oriented research by combining the theories of property rights, sustainable development, and community promotion. Meanwhile, the pilot practice should pay more attention to the holisticness of policy, systematicity of supervision, scientific quality of competition, and participation of residents.

Young Innovative Companies have received considerable attention in the last decade in entrepreneurship and management literature. These firms need financial resources to develop but lack legitimacy in the eyes of investors. This paper empirically explores the determinants of fundraising by analysing 545 Italian innovative start-ups, as defined by the Law 221/2012. In an institutional perspective we propose a model that considers the effect of three different sources of legitimacy. Results show that team educational and professional diversity, incubation and IPRs play a significant role in legitimating the company in the fundraising process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background A well-structured Institutional framework plays a pivotal role in spearheading the management of watersheds. Their collaboration with the community on natural resource conservation has been a great success in controlling watershed degradation. However, a knowledge gap on how they influence community participation on watershed management and conservation is still a gap. Goals and objectives Watershed institutional framework have been mandated the responsibility of management and coordination of conservation activities in the watersheds for sustainable development. By involving the community, capacity building trainings, technical assistance and community empowerment, participation towards watershed management is increased. The current study therefore examines the influence of Institutional framework for watershed management on community participation in upper Gucha, Kenya. Methodology Mapping and delineating the boundaries of the watershed was done using Google Earth map and ArcGIS software version 10.5. Descriptive survey design with a sample size of 354 household heads was used. Data was collected through questionnaires. Statistical analysis utilized mean, frequency, standard deviation, range and Spearman's correlation analysis. Data was presented using pie charts, bar graphs and tables. Results Findings revealed that, watershed management institutions had a low influence on community participation. This was contributed by their weak capacity in terms of technical staff and finance to facilitate watershed management programs and projects. Due to these challenges, the outcomes of watershed management programs held by the institutions were low and ineffective (M=2.1314, SD=0.66201). A positive correlation was however noted between community participation and the capacity of watershed management institutional framework (r=0.513, p=0.000). This implied that, if the institutions capacity is weak, community participation will be low consequently leading to increased degradation of the watershed. The study recommended strengthening of the institutional framework to enable them to effectively collaborate and engage all stakeholders including the community in conserving and managing watershed natural resources hence reducing degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to contrast the foreign portfolio investment and foreign direct investment decisions through the lenses of legal and cultural distances, followed by the cultural moderation between legal and investment modes. This aim fills the gap in the literature on international equity investment decisions that show inconsistencies because prior studies do not separate FPI (foreign portfolio investment) and FDI (foreign direct investment). Most of those studies use either legal distance or cultural distance to explain the investment decision but not together. The moderating role of national culture between legal distance and investment decisions serves this aim and fills this empirical gap. The sample comprises 51,198 events of equity investment between 2007 and 2009. The sample came from 120 home countries and 154 host countries in high technology. A logit (non-parametric) mode was used to compare FPI versus FDI. The result shows that legal distance between home and host country induces FDI; cultural distance induces FPI by the odds of 1.1. Through the interaction effects, the preference for FPI remains 1.1 when legal and cultural distances are high. Because the net effect of legal distance becomes insignificant and the net effect of cultural distance is significant, cultural distance has an ultimate explanation through legal distance. Thus, we make a case for an integrated framework and disintegrated equity investment decisions to support theory and guide practice for policy and practice. We also suggest that policy makers should appreciate cultural distance more than legal distance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the years, electricity shortage has been a persistent problem in the socioeconomic development of Nigeria. Although the country’s primary source of energy has been non-renewable energy sources such as natural gas, crude oil, coal and lignite, these sources have negatively impacted our climate, through pollution and greenhouse gas emissions among others. As the world is rapidly shifting from non-renewable fuel sources to renewable energy sources such as: hydropower; solar; biomass; geothermal; and wind which are environmentally friendly to combat climate change, and provide energy security. Nigeria should not be left behind in this global shift. This article seeks to examine the laws, policies and institutional frameworks that promotes renewable energy in Nigeria while identifying the critical challenges that hinders its implementation and discussing the significance of promoting renewable energy for sustainable development. The finding reveals that Nigeria is yet to maximize the benefits of renewable energy sources despite the numerous frameworks that Nigeria has due to barriers militating against its implementation such as absence of a cogent and specific legal framework on renewable energy. Adopting a doctrinal legal research methodology, the study made some recommendations among others, the enactment of a comprehensive, specific and coherent legal framework on renewable energy in Nigeria which is of utmost importance, as well as strengthening the existing policies to enhancing the capacity of energy regulatory bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examines the main components of the organizational framework for macro-prudential management in the Member States of the European Union. The organizational design of macro-prudential management is a competence of the Member States, which can themselves be grouped into different models. First, the study provides an overview of the international and EU standards and recommendations on the legal status of macro-prudential bodies in the Member States. Then, it lists those basic features of the legal status of macro-prudential bodies which are relevant with a view to the present inquiry before finally turning to address those very features. The study concludes that there is a tendency for the EU macro-prudential body to standardize the basic elements of the legal status of the Member State macro-prudential bodies. However, the process of standardization, in terms of the content of the institutional framework, is still at an early stage and a variety of legal solutions may be identified for each of the substantive aspects. As such, we claim that the institutional framework of macro-prudential policy is best described by a coordinated standardization of the substantive pillars with different formal features and with different legal solutions.

The modern evolution of the dynamics of the structure of the hydrocarbon resource base in various regions is characterized, as a rule, by the gradual replacement of traditional sources with more complex ones. The latter are currently classified as hard-to-recover reserves (HTRR). The process of mastering and involvement in the development of HTRR is closely related to the transition to an innovative path of development, the creation of new technologies, the strengthening of the role of local knowledge, the accumulation of experience working with non-trivial sources of raw materials, and most importantly, with the efforts cooperation of various participants involved both in scientific and technological processes and in the development of subsurface areas. All of the above is impossible without the formation of an appropriate institutional framework with regional specifics. One example of an approach implemented in this area is the Canadian province - Alberta. There is also some experience in this field in Russia – in the Republic of Tatarstan. In a comparison with the initial conditions and approaches to the development of hard-to-recover hydrocarbon resources in these territories shows that there are both common and distinct features within the framework of the implemented approaches. Consideration of the latter is important from the point of view of choosing the directions for the formation a domestic working model in this area.

This article reflects on the development of green infrastructure as planning concept and inspects the status of the concept's implementation under the umbrella of the EU-strategy for the Alpine Region. Qualitative methods, including policy analysis and interviews, were used to evaluate the understanding of the concept among relevant stakeholders from Alpine countries. The results show that there is little agreement with regard to understanding the concept, and that there was a lack of common practice towards its implementation in the 2014–2020 EU budget period. The macro-regional setting consists of the macro regional strategy and the financial support for projects and measures provided via the Alpine Space Programme and The Alpine Region Preparatory Action Fund (ARPAF). The policy analysis reveals that some of the Alpine countries were more pro-active and have either integrated the concept into existing policies (nature protection, planning, environmental policies and so on) or possess GI specific legislation. It was concluded that the existence of various perceptions and views on the concept hinder the successful implementation of the concept and its integration into lower governance levels. Thus, for now, the implementation of GI in the macro-regional context depends upon individual initiatives of the states, regions, or/and local communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In higher education institutions (HEIs), online course delivery has been steadily increasing over the past couple of decades. However, the COVID-19 pandemic quickly accelerated this trend with some HEIs being better prepared than others. This case study explores how an open admission, regional university in the United States developed a robust infrastructure for flexible learning delivery before the COVID-19 pandemic. This infrastructure enabled the acceleration of flexible learning modalities during the pandemic. Aspects of the framework are examined along with pre- and post-COVID data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enactment of a new investment legislation necessitates concurrent adjustments and enhancements to the institutional framework governing the investment procedures, given the significant role that the host country's institutional system plays in attracting investment. The more its procedures are characterized by ease, clarity, and the absence of administrative complications, this will attract the potential investor and vice versa. Globalization has imposed new challenges necessitating the development of competitive capabilities essential for seamless integration into the global economy. This entails the establishment of robust and efficient institutions geared towards fostering development. Therefore, the new Investment Law 22-18 includes in its provision's reforms to the institutional framework in charge of the investment process through restructuring it with the aim of raising the level of efficiency of the agencies in charge. By investing, developing and keeping pace with digital transformation in order to reduce administrative restrictions and enhance cooperation between departments active in organizing the investment process, to keep pace with local and international changes to contribute to economic integration and in a manner consistent with investment policy to achieve the requirements of sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Privatization processes present a multifaceted challenge, especially in countries with fragile market institutions. This article delves into the complex dynamics of privatization, emphasizing the importance of balancing different interests with a particular focus on the role of competition law. While asset maximization has traditionally dominated privatization discussions, this study advocates for a broader perspective that uses privatization to enhance market institutions. As a base study and drawing on the Brazilian experience of the steel sector privatization, the article unravels the consequences of partial privatizations and the risk of common ownership and interconnected influence through the state. Ultimately, the article contributes to a comprehensive understanding of privatization's role in competitive markets and economic progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research Question: How does the IPSAS application affect Accountability and government effectiveness in Nigeria? Motivation: Inadequate disclosure of public account information has made a mess of public resources management regarding accountability and government effectiveness, necessitating rational actions for minimising cover-up of unethical practices in government. This study employs Tawiah (2022); Schmidthuber et al. (2022) to tailor IPSAS and governance concepts. It creates unique constructs of voters' turnout rates to measure government effectiveness and buttress Accountability. Idea: This study examines governance status based on public support through the voters' election turnout. It anchors the research variables on the institutional and theoretical framework of IPSAS and public responses to government effectiveness Data: It analyses 1999 to 2020, a 22-year-time series data covering before and after the IPSAS application; obtained from the World Bank Development Indicators data bank and the National Assembly Federal Republic of Nigeria resources. Tools: It uses descriptive, ordinary least square regression, correlation statistical, and econometric analyses. Findings: During IPSAS application period, Accountability improves while government effectiveness declines. Whereas, during GAAP period, Government accountability progresses while Presidential and House of Representatives elections negatively influence the government's effectiveness. Hence, the Voters' turnout dwindled. Contributions: A unique methodology involving voters, political parties, officeholders, foreign direct investors and gross domestic products in studying government financial reporting standards. Combination of two regimes of GAAP and IPSAS to demonstrate deeper analyses of accounting standards and public performance evaluation. Evidences that the hidden economic problems associated with resource misallocation are aggravated during the IPSAS period.

Sustainable management and conservation of natural and cultural heritage has become a priority for governments in order to mitigate environmental degradation. This paper aims to identify a gap in Greek legislation relating to the non-inclusion of the country’s cultural and natural heritage sites in the national network of protected areas. The proposed institutional framework aims at filling this gap by redefining the meaning of protected landscape. This process outlines the relevant administrative level and specifies the procedure for designating these areas. The Parrhasian Heritage Park illustrates the concept and the benefits of protecting and managing of such areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neoliberal reforms arising from Spain's entrance into the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) have had major consequences for academic practice and unleashed heated debate in the university community and society. This article explores the main transformations and basis of the political-economic model of public universities in Spain. It focuses on two dimensions of the institutional framework that have had a significant impact on teaching and research practice in universities: the strategic focus of research policy and labor regulations and employment conditions. To address both dimensions, the analysis centers on the implications each has for the reproduction of a specific discipline, social anthropology, in the context of the University of Seville. The article describes some of the main factors conditioning and limiting these two dimensions, in particular how business logic and neocolonialism are driving new research policy and how a combination of neoliberal organization of labor, meritocracy and clientelist networks are impact hiring practices and intensifying labor precarization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Recherches en Sciences de Gestion is the property of ISEOR 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.)

Previous empirical studies have highlighted the importance of the institutional framework in fostering a transition towards the circular economy (CE). Adopting a dynamic approach, which merges three Flash Eurobarometer surveys conducted in 2015, 2017 and 2021 into a single dataset, we observe the evolution in the factors determining the adoption of CE practices. Firstly, using factor analysis, our results indicate two groups of institutional drivers: knowledge and environmental spillovers. Secondly, applying a multivariate probit model, we observe that both spillovers have a positive effect on the adoption of the CE. Finally, we find that the effect of knowledge spillovers remains relatively constant, while that of environmental spillovers tends to increase. This suggests that firms are increasingly benefiting from the adoption of circular practices by their peers. Policymakers should take into account that a more intense knowledge spillovers and a stronger institutional framework will increase the likelihood of European small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) adopting CE practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of O Social em Questão is the property of Faculdades Catolicas - Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Rio de Janeiro and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The collection of studies on meaningful work is still quite fragmented and lacks theoretical models that can be applied to various forms of employment status. This article examines the meaningful work phenomenon for both employed and self-employed workers using qualitative data. Drawing on 16 in-depth semi-structured interviews with schoolteachers and self-employed private tutors in Russia, the analysis demonstrates the nature of meaningful work constructed by employment status. Different institutional frameworks form institutional legitimacy, professional community, the final product of work and the prestige of occupation. The article's primary theoretical contribution is the development of a theoretical model that describes the multifaceted and impermanent nature of meaningful work. The practical implications include the revelation of prominent differences among workers having different employment status, which is a solid foundation for future attempts to conduct quantitative research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple crises and challenges in the food sector are driving a rising need for innovative food production methods that could provide a growing urban population with high-quality, sustainable and healthy food while strengthening the resilience of food systems. Controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) in urban areas has been proposed as one possible pathway to address these demands. Despite its various potential benefits, CEA is still in a conceptual or experimental stage and there has been less research that focuses on the specificities of urban areas where it could be implemented. Using the Urban Food Production Innovation System (UFoPrInS) concept, this paper analyses the urban contexts and enabling and impeding factors for implementing CEA in three contrasting locations: London, Nairobi and Singapore. Based on document analysis and semi-structured expert interviews, our findings show that Singapore is a favourable location because public policies support the implementation of CEA to reduce food import dependency and enhance the resilience of food supply. In London, high food import dependency is increasingly seen as problematic, but the implementation of CEA has been hampered by other policy priorities. In Nairobi, where over half of the population lives in informal settlements without adequate food, water and sanitation, CEA is unlikely to make an economically efficient contribution to food security. We conclude that the implementation of CEA might be suitable in locations with ample capital and knowledge, stable political, social, and infrastructure conditions, and limited space, where value can be linked to hospitality and tourism, supported by positive pricing for resource savings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Employee performance has been a critical theme which has received global attention in the mainstream literature of public sector governance. In developing countries, the need for employee performance is backed up by public dismay on declining public sector performance. Some of the causes attributed to low performance are the meagre resources allocated to the public sector and the existing formal rules and regulations which mould the behaviour of employees. So far, the existing informal social rules which also regulate the behaviour of employees have received little attention. This article is therefore set to explore the relationship between the formal institutional framework, the informal social rules and the availability of resources on one hand, and employee performance within Tanzania's maritime sector on the other. Accordingly, the study adopted a mixed approach with a case study of the Tanzania Port Authority in Dar es Salaam. To this end, a stratified simple random sampling technique was used to get a sample of 318 respondents for a questionnaire and a purposeful sampling technique was used to get a sample of 30 respondents for in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analysed through descriptive statistics of employee performance variables and interviews were analysed through a thematic approach to get in-depth information concerning the influence of formal and informal institutions and resources on employee performance. The study found that employees' performance behaviour at Dar es Salaam port authority is regulated by formal system such as the Open Performance Review and Appraisal System and informal channels of communication. The formal rules define the targets to be reached by each employee but the informal social rules and the resources provide the conditions to achieve the predetermined target. Points for practitioners: Public managers should be aware that employee performance in the public sector is a function not only of formal rules and regulations in place but also of the availability of resources and the informal social rules which set the conditions and influence the way public officials perform their daily duties and responsibilities in the public office. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of the article: This study was set to determine the influence of institutional framework on service quality in both private and public hospitals. The paper sought to establish the perception of respondents regarding the institutional factors that explain the existence of variations in service quality between public and private hospitals. The institutional framework aspects that were considered in comparing health service quality in public and private hospitals were: institutional culture, control, stability and structure. A descriptive survey design was used because the study sought to know the perception of respondents regarding the factors that influence quality of service in hospitals. Research methods: A multistage sampling method was used to select three public hospitals and three private hospitals from the health service sector. The three public hospitals were Muhimbili referral hospital in Dar es Salaam City, Dodoma regional referral hospital and Geita referral hospital in Geita municipality. Private hospitals included in the study were Bugando referral hospital in Mwanza City, St Francis referral hospital in Ifakara town in Morogoro region and Nkinga referral hospital in Tabora region. Medical doctors, nurses and patients were selected using a systematic random sampling method and patients were selected using a convenience sampling method. The total population for the study comprised 10,650 people (i.e. 2,610 doctors and nurses and 8,040 patients) and the selected sample size, which was determined using McCall’s Table was 400 people. Both primary and secondary data collection sources were used. Analysis of the quantitative data was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and qualitative data were transcribed verbatim, coded and analysed manually. All ethical considerations were observed. Main findings: The findings revealed that private hospitals were better in cleanliness compared to public hospitals and physical arrangement was user friendly in private hospitals compared to public hospitals. There was also more control in private hospitals compared to public hospitals in management of resources and this demonstrates an application of strong institutional framework in private hospitals compared to public hospitals in terms of control, structure and culture. Likewise, there was a more friendly atmosphere in private hospitals compared to public hospitals. However, there was more stability in public hospitals compared to private hospitals in terms of financial stability, affordability of service and medical supplies. It is concluded that quality of service provided in private hospitals is higher compared to quality of service in public hospitals. The possible explanation for the causes for differences in levels of service quality could be the existence of strong institutional framework in private hospitals. It is recommended that for higher service quality, organizations should practice the institutional framework aspects in terms of culture, control, stability and structure.

Abstract The present study investigates the effect of regional and bilateral trade agreements supported by institutional framework on bilateral trade between India and selected South and Central Asian countries. The augmented gravity model that corrects for zero trade, endogeneity and heterogeneity is used. The model is developed by applying OLS and PPML (Poisson pseudo-maximum likelihood) estimation technique using panel dataset of 22 countries from 1996 to 2020. Empirical results show that trade agreements have failed to enhance trade between selected countries. However, institutional framework positively contributes to trade integration among these countries. The key finding of this study is that regional trade agreements supported by institutional framework play an important role in promotion of trade among these countries. Thus, the government needs to pay attention to enhance institutional quality to reap the benefits of trade integration.

Climate change has emerged as a global focal point, notably affecting vulnerable countries like Pakistan. The country faces heightened risk, prompting concern among many due to its susceptibility to climate-related hazards. An imperative challenge arising from this phenomenon is the necessary shift towards sustainable energy, particularly concerning energy consumption within the building sector. Buildings significantly contribute to daily energy usage and subsequent GHG emissions. In Pakistan, transitioning to energy-efficient building stock holds pivotal importance in mitigating climate change impacts. This hinges on establishing a robust institutional framework and regulatory structure centered around energy efficiency. While Pakistan possesses policies and national guidelines advocating for energy-efficient buildings, their practical enforcement and application remain inadequate. The inception of the Building Energy Code of Pakistan in 1990, based on ASHRAE 90.1 standards, marked a step forward. However, obstacles rooted in institutional weakness and limited capacity building have impeded its effective adoption and adherence. Although the Energy Provisions of 2011 introduced modifications, their scope remained confined mainly to commercial structures. This paper conducts an extensive assessment of Pakistan's existing institutional and regulatory framework for building energy efficiency and transition. Drawing on literature insights and stakeholder perspectives, an in-depth understanding of prevailing policies and institutions uncovers underlying reasons for non-compliance and limited implementation. Additionally, input was gathered from stakeholders through interviews, aiming to identify barriers obstructing the reinforcement of building energy efficiency measures in Pakistan. Discourse and narrative analysis, informed by literature and stakeholder interviews, revealed the significance of awareness, participation, coordination, capacity building, technical expertise, finance, and resources as key factors contributing to deficient compliance and implementation of existing codes and policy guidelines. This paper also proposes actionable recommendations to expedite the transition towards a sustainable, energy-efficient building stock in Pakistan.

Blue economic development to improve the quality of life of people while ensuring inclusive social development as well as environmental and ecological security. India has committed to advancing the blue economy. The knowledge about fishery resources, sea bed, marine minerals and energy resources and vulnerability to natural hazards is a pre-requisite for the growth and development of the blue economy. The marine fish catch has been a major source of income for one million fishers in India. The technological development for product development to be addressed for commercialization of deep-sea fishery. Geophysical surveys have provided information about coastal placer minerals, gas hydrates on continental shelf and manganese nodules, hydrothermal systems and cobalt crusts in high seas. The investment in developing technologies and human resources for harnessing these resources is being made. The coastal and marine area spatial planning to be employed to understand risks involved and accordingly, developmental activities to be planned. The economic growth prospects beyond 2030 will be limited without large investments in ocean environments. An accounting system to be developed to bring together disparate data sources, both economic and environmental. An institutional framework for implementing activities related to blue economy to be set up. Investments in sustainable development of oceans will pay rich dividends for future generations and benefit humanity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The livelihood of indigenous people, residing in the forest fringe area of developing countries like India, are primarily dependent on the forest. These forest fringe communities represent the country's poorest people and are the most vulnerable due to their high dependency on natural resources, lack of energy, unemployment, poor quality of life and poor socio-economic conditions. Additionally, climate change and lesser adaptive capacity have further exacerbated their struggle to meet their livelihoods. Thus, alleviating poverty, strengthening adaptive capacity to climate change and improving energy access are interlinked and complementary to each other, forming an energy–poverty–climate nexus. The study attempted to understand and analyse the nexus between poverty, energy access and climate vulnerability of the most impoverished villages of India. The study was conducted in 29 forest fringe villages, spread in Mandla and Hoshangabad districts of the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. The state has the distinction of having the highest forest cover and tribal population in the country. A detailed household survey was conducted to assess poverty, climate vulnerability and energy access of 325 households by using progress out of poverty index (PPI), climate change vulnerability index (CCVI) and energy access index (EAI), respectively. The data were collected through interview sessions with the respondents in the regional language. After computing scores of all indices, correlation, regression and chi-square were applied to test the integration of these three variables to understand the energy–poverty–climate nexus. The study found a nexus between energy access, poverty and climate vulnerability and also identified 14 indicators, which significantly influenced the nexus. These indicators were related to agriculture, energy, income and infrastructure, and education and awareness that together help to form an institutional framework for sustainable development. The framework suggests the formation of a block-level committee for monitoring and evaluation, a district-level committee for mobilizing funds, and a state-level inter-departmental committee for planning and implementation. Furthermore, the analysis on scores of different indices revealed that parameters like economic class, type of livelihood options/occupation and education level of a household may be the appropriate indicators for the selection of households to prioritize the target beneficiaries of programmes and policies related to poverty, energy and climate change in the forest fringe villages of India. Based on this, a site-specific framework was designed to act and prioritize programme implementation to achieve sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examines the main components of the organizational framework for macro-prudential management in the Member States of the European Union. The organizational design of macroprudential management is a competence of the Member States, which can themselves be grouped into different models. First, the study provides an overview of the international and EU standards and recommendations on the legal status of macro-prudential bodies in the Member States. Then, it lists those basic features of the legal status of macro-prudential bodies which are relevant with a view to the present inquiry before finally turning to address those very features. The study concludes that there is a tendency for the EU macro-prudential body to standardize the basic elements of the legal status of the Member State macro-prudential bodies. However, the process of standardization, in terms of the content of the institutional framework, is still at an early stage and a variety of legal solutions may be identified for each of the substantive aspects. As such, we claim that the institutional framework of macro-prudential policy is best described by a coordinated standardization of the substantive pillars with different formal features and with different legal solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is not news that natural resources are limited and humanity, but especially companies, are called to implement strategies to reduce waste and protect the environment. At the level of the European Union, these aspects are treated with maximum responsibility. In this highly complex context, the paper is aiming to analyse the main levers and strategies for the massive transition to the circular economy. The paper starts with the literature review exemplifying a few concepts about circular economy, Then, the main legal and institutional framework of the European Union, such as, regulatory framework of the European Union and the circular transformation in the European panorama are briefly presented. Furthermore, in the chapter entitled Innovation and circular economy, the concept of innovation, the circular economy concepts and the emergence of the circular economy in contrast to the linear economy are approached. Finally, the paper presents a brief analysis of circular economy objectives and strategies at the European level, including the main strategic objectives of the new circular economy plan and some difficulties and possible solutions related to the transition of companies towards circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change has emerged as a global focal point, notably affecting vulnerable countries like Pakistan. The country faces heightened risk, prompting concern among many due to its susceptibility to climate-related hazards. An imperative challenge arising from this phenomenon is the necessary shift towards sustainable energy, particularly concerning energy consumption within the building sector. Buildings significantly contribute to daily energy usage and subsequent GHG emissions. In Pakistan, transitioning to energy-efficient building stock holds pivotal importance in mitigating climate change impacts. This hinges on establishing a robust institutional framework and regulatory structure centered around energy efficiency. While Pakistan possesses policies and national guidelines advocating for energy-efficient buildings, their practical enforcement and application remain inadequate. The inception of the Building Energy Code of Pakistan in 1990, based on ASHRAE 90.1 standards, marked a step forward. However, obstacles rooted in institutional weakness and limited capacity building have impeded its effective adoption and adherence. Although the Energy Provisions of 2011 introduced modifications, their scope remained confined mainly to commercial structures. This paper conducts an extensive assessment of Pakistan's existing institutional and regulatory framework for building energy efficiency and transition. Drawing on literature insights and stakeholder perspectives, an in-depth understanding of prevailing policies and institutions uncovers underlying reasons for noncompliance and limited implementation. Additionally, input was gathered from stakeholders through interviews, aiming to identify barriers obstructing the reinforcement of building energy efficiency measures in Pakistan. Discourse and narrative analysis, informed by literature and stakeholder interviews, revealed the significance of awareness, participation, coordination, capacity building, technical expertise, finance, and resources as key factors contributing to deficient compliance and implementation of existing codes and policy guidelines. This paper also proposes actionable recommendations to expedite the transition towards a sustainable, energy-efficient building stock in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the legal regime of the outermost small islands in the Indonesian archipelago by examining the legal framework and border management, defense and security issues, and challenges of overlapping authority between government agencies. The results indicate that Indonesia still faces challenges with the implementation of the legal framework. These challenges include undetermined maritime borders with neighbouring countries, threats to maritime security, overlapping law enforcement, weak border management and institutional framework problems in the utilisation of these islands. The solutions proposed by this research include the government reaching an agreement with neighbouring countries due to the threats faced. Then, there is a need for an increased number of patrol fleets and improved capability of Navy personnel in strengthening law enforcement and maritime control. Furthermore, an amendment to the laws and regulations should provide clearer provisions to the Navy and the Coast Guard to improve coordination in law enforcement. Finally, the effectiveness of the National Border Management Agency should be strengthened by equipping it with trained personnel capable of effectively cooperating with border institutions from neighbouring countries. Furthermore, this research suggests that integrated national marine policies and governance should be established to coordinate institutional work in managing these islands effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Low Carbon City (LCC) concept has been introduced previously in Malaysian urban development and practice. Through the Low Carbon Cities Framework (LCCF), the Malaysian government has accordingly delineated local authorities' targets for achieving zero carbon status. However, to achieve smooth governance of LCC delivery, it is essential to ensure that institutional approaches are well-practised and administered. Nevertheless, what are the key elements that can be a guide for LCC governance in local government? Thus, this paper aims to establish the indicators applicable to LCC in governance and practice at local government. This study, therefore, employed a qualitative method with a purposive sampling approach, using the technique of in-depth interviews consisting of three (3) local authorities practising low carbon efforts, and also employed thematic analysis for secondary data. This study showed that LCC governance could be operative considering several important indicators for practice. The findings found that the LCC indicators are substantial for the local authority in delivering LCC initiatives, as well as the challenges faced by the local government in restructuring the institutional framework to achieve better governance practices. The study outcome, therefore, can be a reference to local government when implementing LCC initiatives through a better governance approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our paper fills a gap in the literature on the relationship between innovation, carbon emissions, ownership structure, and institutional framework quality. We test the linear and nonlinear relationships between research and development (R&D) expenditures and carbon emissions by considering ownership structure types and institutional setting variables. We use parametric and semiparametric regressions, on a sample of 32 member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), over the period 2015–2020. Our parametric results confirm the inverted U-shaped relationship found in previous research, between innovation and carbon emissions, as well as the significantly positive effect of an institutional presence in ensuring an energy transition. Moreover, semiparametric regressions suggest, first, that there are many peaks, which confirms the dual relationship between the variables. Second, they highlight a positive association between foreign investors and carbon emissions. Third, the introduction of the institutional quality variable confirms an inverted u-shaped relationship between carbon emissions and innovation. Globally, our study raises awareness among both public authorities and investors of the challenges of environmental degradation and its adverse effects on the climate.

Producing enough healthy food for a globally growing urban population within planetary boundaries requires more resource-efficient and localized food production systems. Controlled-environmental food production systems (CEFPS) are a widely discussed new approach for sustainable food production in urban contexts. However, little research has addressed innovation processes of CEFPS in urban or rural areas. This paper aims to address this research gap by adapting an innovation system perspective, developing a conceptual framework for ‘urban food production innovation systems’ (UFoPrInS) and applying it to a paradigmatic case study in Berlin. Based on a content analysis of the relevant literature and 23 semi-structured expert interviews, we analyse (a) the main characteristics and (b) the key elements of the UFoPrInS and their relationships during different stages of the innovation process. The case results show that UFoPrInS faces various challenges related to possible structural failures that can occur in infrastructure, interactions, capabilities of actors and institutions. The current institutional framework at EU and national level was seen as the major barrier to innovations. To support new food production innovations, a comprehensive regulatory framework for CEFPS is needed that considers in an integrated approach the specifics of (1) the highly-intensive production processes, (2) the diverse types of products and (3) the urban location.

Withdrawal from the European Union (EU) has seen the United Kingdom (UK) abandon membership of and formal influence over policy making in the EU and pursue a policy of disintegration from and minimal commitments towards the EU. Although the UK–EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement is strikingly lacking in ambition, it does involve a dense and complex institutional framework to manage relations. Moreover, the post‐Brexit UK–EU relationship includes a unique set of arrangements that keep Northern Ireland in the EU's customs territory and internal market for goods. These arrangements involve dynamic regulatory alignment and are managed by a dedicated institutional set‐up that has the potential at least to provide the UK 'in respect of Northern Ireland' with a particular decision‐shaping role with regard to applicable areas of the EU acquis. This article considers the initial operation of these sets of institutional frameworks and their potential for UK influence over the EU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]