Keywords: defense;arms industry;sustainable development;doughnut economics;
This chapter aims to discover whether it is possible to develop a reasonable compromise between the idea of sustainable development, the arms industry and defense. Seemingly opposite ideas and sectors have much in common. The aforementioned shared part may bekey to solving the problem together. In the case of defense, there are solutions that provide an increase in defense capabilities and an environmental benefit. The arms industry is, however,difficult to be made sustainable. This sector is unsustainable in nature and its guiding idea is imbalance. This imbalance is becoming apparent in the turnover of arms companies, whose huge profits are fuelled by the arming of countries. Trade of this magnitude takes place despite the existence of various conventions prohibiting war—the UN Charter, for example.In the case of defense, however, sustainability does not have to be an antonym. This chapter does not encourage the implementation of militarism nor of environmentalism. The desired approach is the one that is most beneficial to humans (defense) and the environment on occasion. Therefore, it seeks arguments supporting the thesis that it is possible to invest indefense in a thoughtful way with respect for the environment. Observing the scale of the problems of the modern world—wars and conflicts, it is necessary to take reasonable action while there is still time.
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Keywords: EU funds;sustainable development;cohesion policy;European Regional Development Fund;Cohesion Fund;European Social Fund+;“Fit for 55”;“Europe 2020”;
This chapter analyses the impact of European Union funds on achieving sustainable development goals. The EU budget, although it constitutes only 1% of the entire Union’s GNI, plays a key role in financing initiatives supporting sustainable development. This chapter presents the history of the EU’s sustainable development policy, with particular emphasison funds such as the European Regional Development Fund, the Cohesion Fund, and the European Social Fund+, including the latest initiatives, like the “Europe 2020” strategy andthe “Fit for 55” package, aimed directly at combating climate change and supporting thetransition to a sustainable economy. The analysis includes a critical review of both Polishand foreign literature, as well as source materials and statistical data from EU institutions, highlighting the importance of the EU budget policy in supporting sustainable development,particularly in relation to Poland within the financial perspective for 2021–2027.
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Keywords: climate inequality;social justice;climate policy opposition;energy transition;European Union;
Responsibility for global warming is distributed unequally, and its effects are much more severe for the poor, who emit relatively little, than for the rich. Unfortunately, most climate policies to date have placed the greatest financial burden on the lower and middle classes, translating into a sense of injustice among citizens, as well as opposition to such policies. The following chapter discusses this problem from the perspective of the European Union member states: it describes the said opposition and aims to understand its causes. It seems important to ensure that the costs of future policies are mainly borne by the largest emitters, while less advantaged groups should receive additional support. Otherwise, there might occur a rise in inequality, a loss of trust in the government and opposition to its policies, making it impossible to effectively fight climate change.
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Keywords: Sustainability Linked Loans;green finance;sustainable finance;
Sustainability Linked Loans (SLL) have gained increasing attention in Poland, reflecting a broader global trend in sustainable finance. The aim of this chapter is a comprehensive overview of SLLs, comparing the Polish and international markets and evaluating the future prospects of this financial instrument. The study reviews industry standards and examines Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) used in SLLs, assessing their alignment with standards. Findings show, that while SLLs became globally used due to their flexibility, the Polish market is still developing. Environmental KPIs are prevalent in SLLs, whereas social KPIs are less common due to measurement challenges. The paper also notes a recent decline in SLL issuance, likely influenced by stricter EU regulations and high auditing costs.
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Keywords: sustainable development;Formula 1;sustainable motorsport;carbon dioxide emission;carbon footprint;Net Zero Carbon 2030;
This chapter analyses Formula 1’s sustainability efforts, with a focus on reducing CO2 emissions in racing, organisation, business travel, and event operations. The research uses a review of historical data and analysis of Formula 1’s initiatives, such as Net Zero Carbon 2030, to assess the effectiveness of emission reduction strategies. Results show minor decreases in emissions from planning and travel, although the growing number of races limits overall progress. Significant reductions were seen in manufacturing emissions. The chapter concludes that while Formula 1 is adopting green technologies, more substantial efforts in different dimensions of Formula 1’s functioning are needed to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
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Keywords: sustainable development;non-financial reporting;listed companies;sustainability certificates;
The aim of this chapter was to explain what role information about sustainability certificates can play in the non-financial reports of companies according to Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive. The non-financial reports of selected companies of the Warsaw Stock Exchange were analysed. On this basis, it was found that enterprises willingly report on the certificates they have obtained. It was identified that the above information primarily serves to authenticate sustainable practices and may have a direct impact on the assessment of companies’ non-financial reports. They also serve as an essential element of stock exchange announcements and thus building relationships with stakeholders and investors.
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Keywords: meat;environment;public health;veganism;vegetarianism;agriculture;meat industry;
This chapter attempts to provide a comprehensive overview of the impact of industrial meat production on key aspects related to sustainability. Issues such as the ability to feed the expanding population with continued growth in meat consumption, considering the industry’s impact on the environment, with massive greenhouse gas emissions, extensive water use, and widespread deforestation or public health, including health risks related to diets high in meat consumption and the rise of antibiotic resistance caused by excessive antibiotic use in livestock farming, were reviewed. Based on the literature analysis it was concluded that changes in dietary customs leading to the adoption of more sustainable food sources are necessary to secure the future for next generations.
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Keywords: Fair Trade movement;Fair Trade market;globalisation;global challenges;sustainable development;
The aim of this chapter is to identify how Fair Trade practices address some of the contemporary global challenges arising from the processes of globalisation. Methods include analysis of the literature, reports, data, and information from organisations such as Fairtrade International, Fairtrade Poland, the Polish Fair Trade Association, the World Fair Trade Organization, the World Bank, and the United Nations. Fair Trade focuses on achieving social, environmental, and economic goals, especially in addressing poverty. Fair Trade is a social movement enhancing social awareness about global challenges and also a market of products that meet Fair Trade criteria. It aims to improve the living conditions of marginalised communities by tackling the negative impacts of globalisation and supporting sustainable development.
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Keywords: Fair Trade;sustainable tourism;responsible tourism;economic impact;environmental conservation;social justice;certification;
This chapter examines the potential of Fair Trade in the tourism industry, exploring whether sustainability is merely a marketing gimmick or a genuine pathway to responsible tourism. The aim is to understand how Fair Trade principles can positively impact local communities and the environment as well as on the tourists themselves. Methods include statistical data analysis, case studies, and literature review. Findings indicate that Fair Trade tourism promotes economic benefits for local communities, environmental conservation,and social justice. Certification processes such as ATES and Fair Trade Tourism Certification ensure transparency and credibility, building consumer trust and motivating businesses to maintain high sustainability standards. Practical examples from various tourism enterprises demonstrate the successful implementation of Fair Trade principles. Future research should focus on long-term impacts and best practices in different geographical and cultural contexts.
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Keywords: Fair Trade;generative artificial intelligence (genAI);Fair Trade education;AI in education;
This study investigates the potential application of generative artificial intelligence (genAI) in Fair Trade education, with the aim of enhancing consumer awareness and support for this movement and market. The research discusses the integration of AI in creating personalized, engaging educational content and strategies to improve consumer loyalty and knowledge. It examines the challenges of accurately representing aspects of Fair Trade while meeting consumer needs. The methodology involves an analysis of genAI’s impact on consumer education. Findings indicate that while genAI can significantly streamline educational efforts and enhance outreach, it also poses ethical concerns and risks of misrepresentation. The study concludes by highlighting the need for careful consideration of genAI’s advantages and limitations, encouraging further exploration and collaboration between AI experts and Fair Trade advocates to ensure its ethical and effective implementation.
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Keywords: Fair Trade;Fair Trade campaigns;Fair Trade communities;Fair Trade universities;Poznan;Poznan University of Economics and Business;
This chapter examines the crucial role of higher education in promoting sustainable development and raising awareness of global challenges, focusing on Poznań University of Economics and Business’s becoming a Fair Trade University. It outlines the international Fair Trade Towns movement and its impact on responsible consumption, highlights Poland’s involvement in this campaign, and discusses the University’s way towards obtaining the Fair Trade University title thanks to student-driven initiatives. The chapter presents future strategies for promoting sustainability, emphasising public procurement policies, local business partnerships, collaboration with local authorities and inter-university collaborations. It concludes that these grassroots efforts along with global sustainability goals are vital in shaping socially responsible future leaders, that will be responsible for the broader transformation towards a sustainable market economy.
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Keywords: Jewish community; Teplice; persecution; Enlightenment; antisemitism; Holocaust;
The document delves into the history of the Jewish community in Teplice, which was once the third largest in Bohemia after Prague and Pilsen. It traces the community's origins back to the 15th century, highlighting periods of growth and persecution. The Jewish community in Teplice faced various challenges, including high taxes and restrictive regulations imposed by local authorities. Despite these hardships, the community thrived, engaging in various trades and establishing important institutions such as synagogues, schools, and hospitals. The document also discusses the impact of the Thirty Years' War, the influence of the Clary-Aldringen family, and the effects of the Enlightenment and Josephine reforms on the community. The Jewish population in Teplice continued to grow and integrate into the broader society, contributing significantly to the local economy and culture. However, the rise of antisemitism and the events leading up to World War II had devastating effects on the community, culminating in the destruction of the synagogue and the persecution of Jewish residents during the Holocaust. The post-war period saw efforts to rebuild the community, but many survivors emigrated, leaving behind a rich but fragmented legacy.
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Keywords: Jewish communities; Český les; cemeteries; preservation; heritage; documentation;
This study investigates the traces of Jewish communities in the former judicial districts of Bezdružice, Tachov, Planá, and Stříbro. It highlights the unique demographic characteristics of the Český les region, where Jewish communities existed in small, closely situated villages and towns. The research, initiated by the Museum of the Český les in 2002, focuses on the preservation and documentation of Jewish cemeteries, many of which were in a state of disrepair due to neglect and vandalism. By 2006, seven cemeteries had been restored, with detailed plans and photographic documentation created for each. The document also discusses the challenges of preserving Jewish heritage in the region, including the lack of archival materials and the need for extensive fieldwork. The study emphasizes the importance of these cemeteries as the only remaining written records of the Jewish presence in the area. Additionally, it provides an overview of the current state of Jewish monuments in various localities, including Bernartice, Bezdružice, Cebiv, Chodová Planá, Dlouhý Újezd, Dolní Jamné, Kořen, Krsy, Lestkov, Nové Sedliště, Pořejov, Prostiboř, Skupeč, Stráž u Tachova, Stříbro, Svojšín, Tachov, and Telice.
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Keywords: competitiveness; bakery grain; comparative analysis; Romania; Bulgaria
The bakery grain market is an important economic sector of the food industry in Romania and Bulgaria,this product has always been part of the country's traditions. Bread and bakery products arewidely consumed in both countries, based on flour obtained from bakery grains. In 2023, the areacultivated with cereals for the production of grain was 1,977.8 thousand hectares in Bulgaria and5,239.8 thousand hectares in Romania and the harvested production in EU standard humidity was10,343.5 thousand tons in Bulgaria and 24,007.9 thousand tons in Romania. Competitiveness is aconcept used often for the analysis of an agricultural sector, at the macroeconomic level, being in aclose relation with food security and international trading activity from that sector. The subject ofthis study is represented by the analyze of the competitiveness of two categories of bakery grains:wheat and rye, these two being considered the most used grains for the production of bakery products.In this study it was compared the bakery grain market competitiveness from Romania with theone from Bulgaria. The main indicators used for measuring competitiveness, and used also in thisstudy are: bread and bakery products consumption (from 2019 to 2029), sales volume per capita in2023, area harvested with wheat and rye (from 2018 to 2022), the production of wheat and rye (from2018 to 2022), indicators related to foreign trade (import, export and trade balance, for the period),and Balassa Index calculated for wheat, and meslin and rye, for the last 15 years. One of the keyfindings of the study is that the area harvested with wheat and rye remained constant in both countriesfrom 2018 to 2022. During this period, wheat production in Bulgaria increased by 8%, while itdecreased by 14% in Romania. Additionally, rye production rose by 0.1% in Bulgaria and by 23.6%in Romania. In the case of wheat and meslin, trade balance is positive for both countries, while inthe case of rye trade balance is positive only for 2021-2023 in Bulgaria, in rest being negative forboth countries. The export of wheat and meslin on the world market provides a comparative advantage,particularly for Bulgaria, with a Balassa index of 13.8 in 2023, and for Romania, with aBalassa index of 8.70 in the same year. However, the Balassa index for rye indicates that neitherRomania nor Bulgaria has a comparative advantage regarding rye.
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Keywords: agriculture; environment; innovation; waste management
The report focuses on livestock waste management, which is a key aspect of sustainable agricultural development. Animal waste, including excreta, bedding materials, waste feed, dead animals, and other by-products, represents a significant environmental pollutant. Proper management of this waste is essential not only for environmental protection but also for reducing farm costs, creating new market opportunities, and increasing the sector’s competitiveness. The adoption of innovative practices in livestock waste management is a modern solution aimed at transitioning towards a circular economy and supporting the European Union’s green policies. The main methods for effective waste management include anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis. An-aerobic digestion is a process that occurs in the absence of oxygen and allows for the conversion of organic waste into biogas. This biogas can be used as a renewable energy source, significantly reducing pollution and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. Another important by-product of the process is biosolids, which can be utilized as fertilizers to improve soil fertility. Pyrolysis, on the other hand, is a thermal decomposition process of biomass without oxygen, producing bio-oils and biochar, which also have applications fuels and soil conditioners. The report highlights the social, economic, and environmental benefits of proper livestock waste management. Effective waste utilization contributes to improving soil structure, reducing methane emissions, and limiting water pollution. One of the most common methods of waste management is the application of manure to agricultural lands, which enhances the organic content of the soil. How-ever, improper or excessive use of manure can lead to nutrient overload and environmental contamination, underscoring the need for precise management. Innovations such as the use of artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies provide new opportunities for process optimization. These technologies help farmers manage resources more efficiently and reduce the negative impacts on the environment. The report concludes that integrating technology, improving regulatory frameworks, and investing in farmer education are essential for sustainable livestock waste management. By adopting these measures, livestock waste can be trans-formed into a valuable resource, supporting both agricultural sustainability and the global circular economy.
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Keywords: control; regional development program; EU funds; institutional framework; monitoring; expenditure control
The Regional Development Program is a key European Union (EU) policy aimed at reducing regional disparities, fostering economic growth, and ensuring sustainable development in less-developed regions. The program provides substantial financial resources to improve infrastructure, stimulate business activity, and promote social inclusion. A complex institutional framework, involving numerous national and European bodies, ensures the effective and transparent use of these funds. Launching the Regional Development Program during the 2021 – 2027 programming period presented significant challenges. This report examines the program's management and control mechanisms and identifies problematic areas in the preparation of its strategic documents. A crucial aspect of program management is the institutional framework defined within the applicable European regulatory framework. The multi-tiered control framework involves various national and European bodies, with specific functions and responsibilities at European, national, and regional levels. The report also incorporates perspectives from various authors on monitoring and control procedures, informing the development of a conceptual model for managing Structural Funds. Effective control and monitoring, incorporating both internal and external verification mechanisms, are crucial for achieving program objectives and ensuring the efficient use of public funds. Challenges include bureaucratic procedures and inter-institutional coordination. Optimizing procedures and strengthening institutional cooperation are essential for enhancing control effectiveness.
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Keywords: portfolio diversification; rural development; agriculture; livestock; rural tourism
In the face of numerous economic and social challenges, rural communities in Albania, particularly in the municipalities of Dimal and Kuçovë, struggle with income instability and poverty. A key strategy to address these issues is diversifying the economic portfolio of households, which can serve to increase income and reduce vulnerability to external economic shocks. This study investigates the impact of diversifying income sources in rural areas on the economic growth of villagers. Our analysis focuses on sectors such as agriculture, livestock, rural tourism, and services, which together form the core of the rural economy. Using a mixed-method approach, the study combines theoretical frameworks on economic diversification with empirical evidence gathered through both quantitative and qualitative data collection. Quantitative data, such as income statistics and employment figures, are complemented by qualitative insights from interviews and focus group discussions with local farmers, business owners, and policymakers. This comprehensive approach enables us to assess how different forms of economic activity contribute to income growth and poverty alleviation in these communities. The results indicate that households with more diversified income sources, particularly those expanding into non-agricultural sectors like rural tourism and small-scale services, experience higher income growth and greater economic stability. Diversification also helps mitigate risks related to market fluctuations and climate variability, thus making families less vulnerable to poverty. However, the success of such diversification efforts heavily depends on the presence of institutional support, access to credit, training programs, and infrastructural development. Based on these findings, the study proposes several policy recommendations aimed at supporting economic development in rural areas. These include enhancing infrastructure, facilitating access to markets, and creating policies that encourage innovation and entrepreneurship in non-agricultural sectors. Institutional support, such as training and capacity-building programs for farmers, plays a critical role in fostering successful diversification strategies. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that economic portfolio diversification significantly contributes to income growth and poverty reduction, thereby promoting sustainable development in rural areas. By addressing both the opportunities and challenges of economic diversification, this research provides a roadmap for policymakers seeking to improve rural livelihoods and enhance the resilience of these communities in the face of ongoing economic and environmental challenges.
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Keywords: marketing funnel; digital content; customer journey; marketing funnel components (before, during and after purchase)
The report explores the pivotal role that digital content plays in shaping consumer behavior in the agricultural business sector. It underscores how digital content impacts the entire customer journey, from the initial exposure to a brand, through the decision-making process, to the eventual purchase and ongoing consumer engagement. The research delves into the marketing funnel, a key model for understanding how businesses can guide potential customers through various stages-awareness, interest, evaluation, decision, and loyalty-ultimately transforming them into loyal advocates of the brand. In agribusiness, where traditional practices have long dominated, the integration of digital strategies has become indispensable. The report identifies several strategic components of the marketing funnel that agricultural enterprises can leverage to optimize their digital presence. These components are essential not only for attracting new customers but also for maintaining long-term relationships with them. By utilizing various digital channels such as social media, content marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), and targeted advertising, agricultural businesses can engage their audience more effectively at different stages of the customer journey. One of the core findings of the research is the importance of creating a cohesive digital strategy tailored to the specific needs of agricultural businesses. This involves selecting the right mi of digital channels and tools to reach potential customers, raise awareness, and eventually drive conversions. The study emphasizes that, in today's fast-evolving digital environment, agricultural enterprises cannot rely solely on traditional marketing techniques. Instead, they must adopt digital tools that allow for better personalization and interaction with customers. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also builds stronger brand loyalty. Furthermore, the report highlights the critical role that innovation and technology play in modern agribusiness. The adoption of cutting-edge technologies, such as data analytics and automation, can significantly enhance the effectiveness of digital marketing campaigns. Investing in analytical tools allows businesses to track consumer behavior and finetune their marketing strategies for maximum impact. In addition, training staff in digital technologies is key to ensuring that these strategies are implemented effectively. In conclusion, the report recommends that agribusinesses expand their digital presence by adopting innovative technologies and developing comprehensive digital marketing strategies. This includes investing in tools that provide insights into consumer behavior and offering training programs to build digital competency within the workforce. By doing so, agricultural enterprises can improve their competitiveness, foster customer loyalty, and thrive in the rapidly changing business environment.
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