Fostering potential entrepreneurs: An empirical study of the drivers of green self-efficacy in Saudi Arabia

The positive role of entrepreneurship and micro and small enterprises in providing job opportunities necessitated a further investigation into the critical individual factors motivating individuals and potential entrepreneurs (students) to develop their entrepreneurial intentions and act green. Accordingly, we aimed to examine the effects of crucial factors—environmental self-identity (ESI) and green mindfulness (GM)—on students’ (potential entrepreneurs’) development of green self-efficacy (GSE) and to examine the influence of GSE on their green entrepreneurial intentions (GEIs). The study sample of 202 potential entrepreneurs was drawn from two Applied and Business Administration Colleges at King Faisal University. The collected data were analysed and interpreted using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The research produced exciting results showing that ESI and GM positively influenced GSE and that GSE positively affected GEI. The results also revealed GSE’s capability to mediate the connection between GM, ESI, and GEI. This paper concludes by providing several suggestions for decision-makers in the study context

Unleashing environmental performance: the impact of green entrepreneurial motivation on small enterprises

Background: Environmental degradation has been annoying, pressuring enterprises to look for innovative ways to improve their operations, methods and products. Aim: This research identifies the key factors contributing to developing innovative behaviour among small enterprises in Saudi Arabia and their effect on environmental performance (EP). Method: The study collected a sample of 284 from different types of small enterprises operating in Saudi Arabia. The data collected were analysed using the partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Results: The study revealed interesting results. It was found that green entrepreneurial motivation (GEM) can positively and significantly influence green innovation (GI) as well as environmental performance. It was also found that green innovation can positively and significantly affect environmental performance. Finally, green innovation could mediate the relationship between green entrepreneurial motivation and environmental performance. Also, Knowledge sharing (KS) could moderate the relationship between green entrepreneurial motivation and green innovation. Conclusion: The study concluded by providing several recommendations for the policymakers in Saudi Arabia

Improving social performance through innovative small green businesses: knowledge sharing and green entrepreneurial intention as antecedents

Small businesses are thought to be largely responsible for environmental pollution despite the fact that businesses of all shapes and sizes contribute to this issue. This research explores how important factors such as knowledge sharing (KS) and green entrepreneurial intention (GEI) might help small businesses in Saudi Arabia develop and implement green innovation (GI). It also seeks to determine whether GI is a mediating variable that explains the connection between GEI, KS, and social performance (SP). Accordingly, an online survey was used to collect responses from 284 small entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia engaged in various types of business activities. The study used partial least squares structural equation modelling for data analysis and hypothesis testing. The results show that GI considerably influences SP while also having a significant link with both GEI and KS. Further, the study reveals that the relationship between GEI, KS, and SP is mediated by GI. The study offers a plethora of suggestions to various stakeholders generally and to Saudi authorities specifically

Entrepreneurial motivation, competency and micro-enterprise sustainability performance: evidence from an emerging economy

Small to medium-sized enterprises suffer from loss of competitive advantage, low productivity, and poor performance because of inadequate competencies. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to examine the effect of selected motivational dimensions (i.e., self-improvement, self-confidence, openness to change, pull factors, and the need for achievement) on entrepreneurial competency among micro-entrepreneurs. We used a cross-sectional design and collected quantitative data from 403 micro-entrepreneurs in Malaysia using random sampling. SEM-PLS was used for data analysis. The findings revealed that self-confidence, openness to change, and pull factors positively influenced entrepreneurial competencies. Moreover, there was a positive effect of self-confidence, pull factors, need for achievement, and entrepreneurial competency on enterprise sustainability performance. Furthermore, entrepreneurial competencies significantly mediated the effect of self-confidence, openness to change, and pull factors on enterprise sustainability performance. Apart from extending the lens of a resource-based view, this study enriches enterprise sustainability literature from emerging nations’ perspective. Policymakers can strengthen their programs and policies to improve the entrepreneurial competencies of micro-entrepreneurs and their business sustainability

Entrepreneurial motivation, competency and micro-enterprise sustainability performance: evidence from an emerging economy

Small to medium-sized enterprises suffer from loss of competitive advantage, low productivity, and poor performance because of inadequate competencies. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to examine the effect of selected motivational dimensions (i.e., self-improvement, self-confidence, openness to change, pull factors, and the need for achievement) on entrepreneurial competency among micro-entrepreneurs. We used a cross-sectional design and collected quantitative data from 403 micro-entrepreneurs in Malaysia using random sampling. SEM-PLS was used for data analysis. The findings revealed that self-confidence, openness to change, and pull factors positively influenced entrepreneurial competencies. Moreover, there was a positive effect of self-confidence, pull factors, need for achievement, and entrepreneurial competency on enterprise sustainability performance. Furthermore, entrepreneurial competencies significantly mediated the effect of self-confidence, openness to change, and pull factors on enterprise sustainability performance. Apart from extending the lens of a resource-based view, this study enriches enterprise sustainability literature from emerging nations’ perspective. Policymakers can strengthen their programs and policies to improve the entrepreneurial competencies of micro-entrepreneurs and their business sustainability

Heat Stroke in Emergency Department: Diagnosis and Management

Background: Heat stroke is a severe health concern with the potential for multi-organ failure, necessitating rapid and effective management. With rising global temperatures, there is increasing concern regarding the vulnerability of populations in high-heat areas, notably in Saudi Arabia, especially during the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Objective: This paper aims to review the epidemiology, evaluation and management techniques of heat stroke, emphasizing the situation during Hajj pilgrimages in Saudi Arabia, and to outline the best practices for emergency management. Methodology: A comprehensive review of literature and studies related to heat stroke, both globally and specific to Saudi Arabia, was undertaken. An in-depth analysis of emergency management, including initial assessment, cooling methods, organ support, medication, and prevention strategies, was conducted. Results: Heat stroke remains a significant cause of emergency department visits, with specific groups, such as men and the elderly, being more susceptible. During the Hajj in 2016, 267 patients were diagnosed with heat-related illnesses, with heatstroke accounting for 29% of these cases. With the threat of global warming, studies indicate a potential tenfold increase in heat stroke risk with a 2°C rise in temperatures. Swift and comprehensive cooling is pivotal for recovery. Management emphasizes rapid recognition, assessment, and varied cooling methods, along with targeted treatments for organ dysfunctions. Prevention strategies play a vital role, given the higher efficacy and practicality over treating organ dysfunctions. Conclusion: Heat stroke is a pressing health challenge, particularly in high-risk environments like Saudi Arabia during the Hajj pilgrimage. While effective emergency management protocols exist, an emphasis on prevention is crucial. It is imperative to incorporate a comprehensive approach to address both the immediate threat and long-term risks of heat stroke, especially with the looming challenge of global warming

The impact of financial literacy on entrepreneurial intention: the mediating role of saving behavior

This study explored the impact of financial literacy (financial awareness) on potential entrepreneurs' intent in Saudi Arabia. It also examined saving behavior as a mediator in the relationship between financial literacy and entrepreneurial intention. The study's data were collected by an online questionnaire sent to a sample of 270 potential entrepreneurs at Abqaiq Applied College, affiliated with King Faisal University. Data analysis was done using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). According to the findings, there is no direct relationship between financial literacy and entrepreneurial intent. However, it has been reported that saving behavior can mediate between financial literacy and entrepreneurial intent

Modelling the asymmetric responses of price level to oil price changes in Qatar

This paper inspects the asymmetric effect of oil price on prices level in Qatar. To achieve that, we proceed by employing a nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach on data during the period 1990Q1-2014Q4. The estimation results show evidences of an incomplete and asymmetric influence of oil price on price level in the long term. Moreover, we find that price responses to negative changes in oil price is greater than its response to positive changes. Given Qatar's economic features, a decrease in oil price could cause lower imports and production prices and consequently a substantial influence on domestic prices level. However, the lower effect of positive oil price changes on consumer prices can be explained by the subsidies system, the consumption patterns, and the exchange rate regime.This work was supported by Qatar national research fund [Grant Number UREP19-128-5-024].Scopu