Circular economy design and management in the built environment : a critical review of the state of the art

The building sector contributes around 39% of global carbon dioxide emissions and consumes nearly 40% of all the energy produced. Over the whole life cycle, the building sector yields over 35% of the EU’s total waste generation. These facts substantiate the necessity to implement circular economy in the built environments, in order to mitigate global warming and climate change emergency. This chapter highlights the state-of-the-art knowledge and research gap with respect to the stakeholders’ influences, inter-relationships, and obstacles for circular economy implementation on building stocks. In this chapter, a robust critical literature review of key documentations such as research articles, industry standards, policy reports, strategic roadmaps, case studies, and white papers has been rigorously conducted together with expert interviews. The state-of-the-art review addresses multi scales of CE practices adopted within the built environments. This chapter spells out current challenges and obstacles often encountered by various stakeholders. Case studies related to circular economy implementation have been drawn in order to promote such the CE practices across value chains in different regions and counties; and to overcome the barriers for circular economy implementation.peer-reviewe

Effects of local urban characteristics and driving behaviour on injuries among pedestrians and cyclists in Malta

Cities across the world are seeking to establish more sustainable urban environments and safer and greener transport systems. This with a view to reduce road accidents, tackle congestion, reduce air and noise pollution and improve overall public health and liveability. Within these aspirations, improving the walking and cycling environments and reducing road accident injuries among these vulnerable road users would serve to support and encourage greener modes of transport and more sustainable cities. Pedestrians and cyclists are disproportionally often the victims of road accidents. As vulnerable groups, understanding the factors that influence the number and that affect the severity of injury, can greatly contribute to several targets and commitments which cities and even countries have adhered to in the past whether for health, environment or societal goals. Research in island contexts are particularly important due to the increase in car dependence across a number of developing and developed island states and the increasing risk exposure for pedestrians and cyclists. This study examines the pedestrian and cycling road accident injuries in Malta using an extensive database of injuries for the period 2005 and 2021 and analyse, using a Poisson panel random effects model, the relationship between local population, urban land use characteristics and driving behaviour, and how they affect injury severity. The analysis is done at local level using a number of variables in the model to determine effects. These include the population of each locality, local land use characteristics such as the presence of (main) commercial activity, a health centre or an industrial estate that have an impact on the number of those walking and cycling, and the number of speeding contraventions issued over time in various locations around the islands as a proxy for driving behaviour. Furthermore, the study presents the islands case study and describes road accident injury trends over time and in context. Findings point towards a link between slight and grievous injuries and commercial, health and industrial activities. Strong links are also found with population changes. Speeding is only linked to grievous injuries. Fatal accidents are related to the location of industrial activity and population. The paper concludes with some recommendations to improve road safety conditions for pedestrians and cyclists.peer-reviewe

Circular economy design and management in the built environment : a critical review of the state of the art

Circular economy (CE) approaches highlight the potential of construction materials to achieve circularity and sustainability in resource-efficient construction systems and industries. Implementing CE at the material level involves factors such as efficiency, durability, waste reduction through recirculation, and replacement, while encompassing criteria that define circularity in building materials. Understanding the inherent characteristics and behaviours of these materials is crucial for maximising their circularity potential. This chapter analyses key properties of traditional construction materials, such as concrete and steel, alongside novel sustainable materials like bamboo, timber, and biomaterials. It identifies and proposes methods to promote circularity at the material level. Additionally, the chapter explores the application of CE principles to both traditional and innovative construction materials. Furthermore, the chapter discusses indicators designed to assess circularity at the material level, serving as valuable tools for informing decision-making and implementation practices in the construction sector. Various types of indicators are presented, categorised as strategic, generic performance, performance, and water consumption indicators. Strategies aligned with waste hierarchy principles are outlined, emphasising the reduction of construction and demolition waste, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, conserving energy, and optimising costs and water resources.peer-reviewe

Book Review: Pan, F. (Ed.). (2024). AI in Language Teaching, Learning, And Assessment. Pennsylvania: IGI Global

The book AI in Language Teaching, Learning, and Assessment, edited by Fang Pan, provides a comprehensive exploration of the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in language education. This review critically examines the book's discussion of generative AI tools, adaptive assessment systems, and personalised learning materials, highlighting its balanced approach to the opportunities and challenges AI presents. The text delves into key areas such as enhancing student engagement, supporting differentiated instruction, and addressing ethical considerations like equity and bias. While the book is a significant contribution to the field, offering practical insights for educators and researchers, it could further address the impact of socioeconomic disparities on AI adoption in under-resourced contexts. Ultimately, the work serves as a timely and indispensable resource for advancing the use of AI in applied linguistics, fostering both innovation and critical reflection in language education.peer-reviewe

Sustainable electrical innovation : a systemic approach to innovation management in the automotive supply chain

PURPOSE: The primary objective of this article was to define an innovation management system comprising the following subsystems: A subsystem for managing internal innovation maturity, a subsystem for overseeing the processes of acquiring product innovations from suppliers, a subsystem for managing the innovation maturity of suppliers within the supply chain and networks of collaborating companies and a subsystem for measuring and managing innovation performance.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: This study aimed to review the key elements that make up innovation management subsystems through a comprehensive literature review. The research focused on comparing innovation management practices employed by three automotive companies producing electric drive systems in Poland. This comparative analysis facilitated the development of a comprehensive model for a network and supply chain innovation management system. The proposed research tools can also be utilized to evaluate the maturity of innovation management in collaborative environments. Furthermore, these tools can serve as a resource for R&D managers, helping them enhance existing systems by integrating missing elements.FINDINGS: The examined corporations implement innovation management models among suppliers. They do this systematically, and their efforts improve innovation growth. However, their actions cannot be called systemic. The results of the three-case study (three automotive concerns (producing electro-components in Poland) showed that Toyota is the closest to building an integrated innovation management system.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: This study aimed to develop a systemic innovation management model for the automotive industry's supply chain and evaluate its feasibility in business practice. This objective was partially achieved, as the research focused solely on assessing the implementation of the model within car manufacturers. Companies collaborating within the supply chain, such as suppliers and customers, were not examined. Consequently, only two subsystems were verified: the subsystem for managing internal innovation maturity and the subsystem for managing the innovation maturity of suppliers within the supply chain.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The article shows a new systemic management of innovations in the supply chain. It is an interesting case study of three international companies that are leaders in patenting product and process innovations.peer-reviewe

The Office of State Advocate and the case

In this article Prof. Tonio Borg examines the constitutional functions and powers of the office of State Advocate introduced in 2019. In his view it is evident that the idea behind the establishment of this office was to have an autonomous guardian safeguarding the legality of State action in the public interest; and yet in practice , but also according to recent jurisprudence, the office has been reduced to that of legal counsel to the government of the day; he argues that the security of tenure granted to the holder of such office is proof that the intention of Parliament was to create an impartial guardian who can take spontaneous action against any illegality of State action.peer-reviewe

The impact of supply chain security management on the functioning of modern organizations

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of supply chain security management on the functioning of modern organizations, with a particular focus on operational continuity, financial stability, and compliance with legal regulations. It aims to assess how effective security management strategies contribute to risk reduction and improve overall supply chain performance.DATA/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The research problem that serves as the starting point for the study is formulated as follows: How does supply chain security management affect the operational and strategic functioning of modern organizations? The hypothesis posits that effective supply chain security management significantly enhances an organization's operational stability, reduces financial risks, and promotes regulatory compliance, which translates into increased competitiveness and positive financial outcomes. Appropriate research methods were employed in the study. A comprehensive literature review on supply chain security management, risk management models, and compliance frameworks was conducted. Additionally, a case study was performed, and an analysis of survey reports directed at supply chain managers across various industries was carried out. Data collected from these sources were analyzed to identify patterns, correlations, and insights regarding the implementation of security measures and their impact on organizational performance.FINDINGS: The study reveals that effective supply chain security management significantly improves operational continuity by mitigating risks associated with data breaches, supply disruptions, and non-compliance with legal regulations. Furthermore, organizations that prioritize security within their supply chains experience better financial stability and a stronger competitive position. The research also emphasizes that compliance with regulations, particularly those such as GDPR and ISO 27001, is crucial for protecting both organizational data and reputation.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The findings highlight the need for organizations to invest in robust security measures within their supply chains to ensure long-term operational success. It is recommended that companies conduct regular risk assessments, perform thorough supplier audits, and align their practices with international standards and regulations. Such an approach will help mitigate risks and ensure compliance, thereby strengthening trust among stakeholders and customers.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This research contributes to updating existing literature by offering a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between supply chain security management and organizational performance. It presents practical frameworks that companies can adopt to enhance the resilience of their supply chains. The originality of the study lies in its focus on the areas of security, risk management, and legal compliance, providing practical insights for contemporary organizations.peer-reviewe

Network of intangible resources on the example of technology sector

PURPOSE: The aim of the article is to examine the impact of corporate intangible resources, such as goodwill, intangible assets, research and development (RandD), and marketing on corporate financial performance (ROA, ROE) in technology enterprises from index SandP 500.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: Intangible resources have been defined by four independent variables and corporate financial performance by two dependent variables. Additionally, there have been used two control variables: size and leverage. Author has used Fixed Effects Model (FEM) to examine the impact of intangible resources on financial performance.FINDINGS: Research results show that intangible resources such as intangible assets have the significant impact on ROA and ROE in tecdhnology enterprises from index SandP 500 during the analyzed period from 2019 to 2023 (p < 0,05). Confirmation of the positive impact indicates that intangible resources can be a key and decisive element in the process of maximizing profit.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The analysis reveals that a key component of the network of intangible resources—intangible assets—significantly enhances financial performance, emphasizing their importance in corporate strategies for technology firms listed on the SandP 500. Conversely, goodwill and marketing show a less immediate financial impact, suggesting a need to reassess related expenditures and focus on efficiency and profitability.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The paper’s original contribution lies in presenting a model estimating the impact of intangible resources on corporate financial performance. The study highlights the importance of a firm’s intangible resources in organizational performance and provides a broader perspective to investigate the influence of other intangible resources on financial outcomes.peer-reviewe

Enacting efficient markets : the performativity of quantitative easing

Quantitative easing (QE) has been a favourite tool of central banks in their post-financial crisis monetary policy apparatus. Social science literature has interpreted QE as a shift away from performative governance characterising pre-crisis monetary policy. With reference to the Bank of England’s experience, I offer a reinterpretation of QE as a performative intervention in the conditions of financial markets, as an attempt to alter the state of financial markets away from dysfunctionality and towards efficiency. I claim that, following the financial crisis, the model of complete and efficient markets – a mainstay in central banking prior to the crisis – was transformed from a real-world approximation to a ‘performative object’ to be achieved. In deploying the balance sheet, central banks attempt to performatively enact complete and efficient markets. The article rejects the claim of discontinuity between pre-crisis and post-crisis monetary policy, arguing that QE is a continuation of inflation targeting though with important innovations. While pre-crisis performativity relied on central bankers’ communicative framing of market expectations, QE is performative via the ontological shaping of financial markets, driven by epistemic models. The article relies on a set of 51 interviews with central bankers and financial market participants and a corpus of documents.peer-reviewe

Loneliness in the Maltese population : a comparison of data from 2019 and 2022

Loneliness is a complex and multifaceted experience resulting from a person’s subjective assessment of the gap between their desired and actual social connections. This study presents an analysis of prevalence rates and correlates of loneliness amongst Maltese individuals aged 11 years and older (n = 658). Data collected in 2022 allowed for a follow up on a first ever study investigating loneliness in Malta in 2019 (n = 1,009) and makes comparisons to understand how loneliness prevalence rates have changed over time and in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results show that in 2022, 54.6% of the sample reported some degree of loneliness. The sociodemographic characteristics that were significantly associated with the highest levels of loneliness were age (11–19 years and 55+), lower levels of education, being widowed, retired, low household income, decreased sense of neighborhood belonging, poor general health, poor coping abilities and not feeling positive about life. Compared to 2019, mean overall loneliness scores were significantly higher in 2022. The most marked increases were observed amongst the youngest groups (11–19 years and 20–34 years), those with the lowest and the highest educational levels, those with a weaker sense of neighborhood belonging and those with poorer coping abilities. The paper makes some recommendations for further research, policy and practice in view of the findings.peer-reviewe