Selected Scientific Articles

by  Krzysztof Zamasz, Jakub Stęchły, Aleksandra Komorowska, Przemysław Kaszyński

Abstract:
Fleet electrification is one of the measures proposed for achieving climate neutrality in the coming years. The replacement of internal combustion engine vehicles with electric vehicles has a positive impact on carbon emission reduction in some countries. However, in countries highly dependent on fossil fuels, such a possibility requires examination with respect to the means of electricity generation and fuel mix used in their power systems. One such country is Poland, selected as an example of an economy strongly dependent on fossil fuels. The main objective of this paper is to investigate the impact of fleet electrification of an individual company located in Poland on the reduction of carbon emissions. The concept and calculations are based on historical data on the single-year mileage and fuel consumption of 619 cars used by this company. Even though the Polish power system is based on fossil fuels, fleet electrification could contribute to a reduction in carbon emissions of 24%. The decrease in operational costs by EUR 370 thousand/year is also significant. Apart from environmental and economic impacts, this paper provides valuable findings on the difference between catalogue and real-driving data application in the various analyses. With respect to Polish fuel mix in 2019, the application of data published by car producers shows that fleet electrification would increase carbon emissions by 14% in this company. This means that depending on the initial assumptions, different conclusions can be drawn by policymakers, regulatory bodies, academics, or other groups of interest. 

Keywords: electromobility; electric vehicle; carbon emissions; fleet electrification; sustainable mobility; sustainable development; fleet management; energy mix

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by Maciej Witkowski, Ewa Nowicka

Abstract:

In this article, the authors unveil the social context surrounding a publicly funded project to improve the extremely poor housing conditions of a Roma community in Poland. The focus was on one Carpathian mountain village in which a Bergitka Roma settlement has existed for more than 80 years. A brand-new apartment house for the local Roma minority partly replaced the earlier settlement in a village populated by Górale, a highlander group that is the local majority. At present about 70 Roma live in the new building. The ethnographic material was obtained during fieldwork carried out in 1994-2017. Herein the authors reconstruct the most significant moments in this investment from different points of view: the Roma and non-Roma neighbors. Each side interprets the fact in its own, rather paradoxical manner; each side has learned different new things in the process. The ambitious housing policy undoubtedly led to improvement of the Roma standard of living; it did not, however, increase the extent of their integration. The natural geology as well as manmade elements (e.g. a fence and a bridge) create and maintain boundaries. Nevertheless, analysis of the broader social context is decidedly more crucial than an analysis of facts. Ultimately, the sense of such publicly funded housing projects needs to be scrutinized from the diverse perspectives within the local community.

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by Mohamed Mousa

Abstract:

Through addressing four public universities in Egypt, the author of this paper aims to uncover the main barriers women faculty face when fulfilling their academic roles. The author employed a qualitative research method through conducting semi-structured interviews with 40 female academics. Moreover, he subsequently used thematic analysis to determine the main ideas in the transcripts. The author of the present study has identified the poor representation of women faculty at both professorial levels and in managerial academic positions. The study indicated that heavy teaching loads, lengthy working hours, accusations of low productivity, growth of masculine power distance and limited empowerment opportunities are the main barriers hindering the status and representation of women faculty in the addressed universities. The findings also showed that social realities, which include the implicit relations among humans (male and female faculty in this case) in the workplace and also relations between humans and their surrounding natural world (stakeholders in the surrounding environment in the present case) decide the volume of knowledge and level of power women might attain. This paper contributes by filling a gap in HR management and higher education, in which empirical studies on the status of women faculty and the barriers they face have been limited so far.

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by Joanna Dziendziora, Małgorzata Smolarek, Barbara Piontek

Abstract:

Purpose: The paper aims to present the potential of activation of investment processes in special economic zones in Poland. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study's general purpose was to diagnose the status of investments in projects implemented by companies as part of special economic zones in Poland. The study was carried out by analyzing reports of special economic zones forming a part of the Polish Economic Zone. Two economic zones were selected for analysis, namely the Katowice Special Economic Zone (KSEZ) and the Pomorze Special Economic Zone (PSEZ). These zones clearly differ concerning the permissible level of regional aid. Data from the years 2014-2019 were analyzed on account of the introduction, in 2014, of the so-called new map of regional aid for years 2014-2020. Findings: This paper is devoted to the issue of investments and the basic terminology accompanying it. Definitions and main types of investments were specified, and results of studies about the activation of investment processes in special economic zones for the benefit of the region between 2014 and 2019 were presented. Enterprises investments are dominant in analyzed zones. Simultaneously, more companies invest in KSEZ, huge ones. The SME sector's interest in both zones is comparable, resulting from too high amounts that must be invested in making use of the SEZ aid. Practical Implications: The current legal solutions and the applicable quality requirements increase the significance of special economic zones in forming growth and development processes based on a set of criteria relying on sustainable attributes. Both the instrument of special economic zones and their operation concept contribute to the formation of sustainable processes in the actual sphere. Liquidation of territorial restrictions offers an impulse to create an investment climate and the possibility of its use by all local governments to activate local investment zones and primarily the opportunity for such an instrument to be used by every company that is developing and investing. Originality/Value: The article is, hence, an attempt to fill the gap in creating an investment climate. Furthermore, studies concerning corporate investments in special economic zones may be an important source of information that enterprises can apply to determine further development areas.

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by Zahid Shafait, Muhammad Asif Khan , Umar Farooq Sahibzada, Zdzisław Dacko-Pikiewicz, József Popp

Abstract:

The purpose of this empirical study is to investigate the effects of Emotional Intelligence (EI) on learning outcomes (social, cognitive, self-growth outcomes and satisfaction with the university experience) of students in Chinese research universities. This study further examines the mediating role of student trust in teachers (emotional and cognitive learning) and learning orientation (commitment to learning) in the relationship between EI and learning outcomes. This intent of this study was to examine the direct effects of learning outcomes on students’ academic efficacy (cognitive skills and standardised tests). This study used a sample frame of 454 students from research universities in China. The relationships were tested through the partial least squares’ structural equation modelling method. The results reveal that EI has a significant impact on learning outcomes. Furthermore, an indirect relation between EI and learning outcomes is established through student trust in teachers and in the learning orientation. The direct relation between learning outcomes and student academic efficacy is also established. There is a lack of studies that investigate the relationship of EI, student trust in teachers, learning orientation, learning outcomes and student academic efficacy. This is one of the initial research studies that not only empirically examine the interface of EI and learning outcomes of students of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) but offers insights into the existing literature by concurrent investigation of the mediating role of student trust in teachers and in the learning orientation in fundamental association, while explaining the association between learning outcomes and students’ better academic efficacy.

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by José Manuel Naranjo Gómeza, Rui Alexandre Castanhoc, Ana Vulevicb

Abstract:

Transportation is one of the most meaningful references of unsustainability in regional urban areas. This difficulty is stimulating urban planners and decision-makers to introduce the concept of sustainability into their policy design at multiple levels. Contextually, through exploratory tools, the present study aims to analyze the impacts over the socio-economic sphere that those new plans could bring to the region and the local populations of Portugal Mainland. Also, analyses of regional disparities in Portugal focused on the socio-economic aspects and analyses on territorial cohesion concept where indicators organized in policy-oriented territorial objectives and then combined with an analytical framework. Besides, the study especially intends to cover sustainable accessibility (also one of the components of territorial cohesion), which aims to help regional planners determine the inherent obstacles and design possible alternatives at the strategic planning level for sustainable regional transport and land-use arrangement. The study shows that exist inequalities in the distribution of absolute accessibility. Value of accessibility in category “very high” in 192 towns (68,57%) settlements, in the central, coastal territory along the dual carriageway and national road corridors, live 81,7% population. Nevertheless, the regional inequalities pattern did not vary considerably in Portugal's last decade of funding policies.

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by  Romualdas Ginevicius, Katarzyna Szczepańska Woszczyna, Marek Szarucki, Andrius Stasiukynas

Abstract: 

The socio-economic development of economic-territorial units subordinate to administrative-management institutions appears as one of the main tasks. The values of alternative indicators reflecting socio-economic development may differ, which makes it difficult to unambiguously assess the importance of the indicators. The applied available methods are either too receptive or does not provide sufficient accuracy. The proposed FARE-M methodology for determining the importance of indicators is the prolongation of the technique for establishing the importance of FARE (Factor Relationship) weights already used for research purposes. The employed technique is based on the internal balance of system elements that is the essential systemic feature. This allows, unlike in the case of the AHP method, the weights of the indicators to be determined with reference to the first row of the data matrix only.

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by Przemysław Kaszyński,Aleksandra Komorowska,Krzysztof Zamasz ,Grzegorz Kinelski, Jacek Kamiński.

Abstract:

Capacity remuneration mechanisms operate in many European countries. In 2018, Poland implemented a centralized capacity market to ensure appropriate funding for the existing and new power generation units to improve long-term energy security. One of the declarations made while the mechanism was deployed was its beneficial influence on incentives for investments in new units. In this context, this paper aims to analyze the effects of the capacity mechanism adopted for investments in new power generation units that may be financed under the capacity market mechanism in Poland. The analysis is conducted for four types of capacity market units, the existing, refurbishing, planned, and demand-side response types, and includes the final results of capacity auctions. The results prove that the primary beneficiaries of the capacity market in Poland have been the existing units (including the refurbishing ones) responsible for more than 80% of capacity obligation volumes contracted for 2021–2025. Moreover, during the implementation of the capacity market in Poland, the planned units that signed long-term capacity contracts with a total share of 12% of the whole market were already at the advanced phases of construction, and the investment decisions were made long before the implementation of the capacity market mechanism. Therefore, they were not associated with the financial support from the capacity market. The study indicates that the capacity market did not bring incentives for investments in new power generation units in the investigated period.

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by Agnieszka Rzepka, Ryszard Borowiecki, Radosław Miśkiewicz, Zbigniew Olesiński

Abstract:

Purpose: Given the considerable pollution of land, air, and water, it seems urgently necessary to change the sources of energy production so that their use does not pollute the environment. Special priority should be given to the generation of electricity from solar energy (photovoltaics) and wind. This article aims to present conceptual changes in the development of Industry 4.0 and to point out further research directions. Design/Methodology/Approach: The first part of the article introduces possible changes, the concept of Industry 4.0, management factors, and an overview of the research results to date. To identify the changes taking place, a survey was conducted with a group of 330 managers from 5 countries (USA, United Kingdom, Poland, Hungary, India, and Georgia). In the second part, further empirical research (related to organizational structure and decision making) and its implementation in organizations is proposed. Findings: The summary contains conclusions on management changes based on the results of the presented research. Practical Implications: The research results collected can provide an impetus for the organization's development in a direction that facilitates participation in the processes of sustainable development. These processes contribute to the improvement of the ecosystem and the rationalization of energy sources and the way they are used. Originality/Value: The research results show that organizations need to consider and adapt to changing conditions. An analysis shows to implement management changes and be competitive, organizations operating in the industry 4.0 era should first build their so-called "ecosystem" by assessing their maturity level in order to understand what is achievable.

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by Karolina Mucha-Kuś, Maciej Sołtysik, Krzysztof Zamasz, Katarzyna Szczepańska-Woszczyna 

Abstract:

The decentralization of the large-scale energy sector, its replacement with pro-ecological, dispersed production sources and building a citizen dimension of the energy sector are the directional objectives of the energy transformation in the European Union. Building energy self-sufficiency at a local level is possible, based on the so-called Energy Communities, which include energy clusters and energy cooperatives. Several dozen pilot projects for energy clusters have been implemented in Poland, while energy cooperatives, despite being legally sanctioned and potentially a simpler formula of operation, have not functioned in practice. This article presents the coopetitive nature of Energy Communities. The authors analysed the principles and benefits of creating Energy Communities from a regulatory and practical side. An important element of the analysis is to indicate the managerial, coopetitive nature of the strategies implemented within the Energy Communities. Their members, while operating in a competitive environment, simultaneously cooperate to achieve common benefits. On the basis of the actual data of recipients and producers, the results of simulations of benefits in the economic dimension will be presented, proving the thesis of the legitimacy of creating coopetitive structures of Energy Communities.

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by Lech A. Bukowski and Pawel Sobczak

Abstract:

Purpose: The objective of this paper is to develop a general concept for creating resilient logistics organizations under the deep uncertainty that arises from unpredictable conditions and unexpected future, and to integrate it with a framework for ensuring the reliable operation of these organizations under conditions of predictable change. Design/Methodology/Approach: The research methodology was based on a transdisciplinary approach because logistics organizations have the nature of complex systems with different types of systems such as physical, cybernetic and social ones. The research approach used is based on a critical analysis of the literature and case studies from the authors' own experience. The research is supported by Ackoff's 'idealized design' approach and assumptions from The IRGC Risk Governance Framework. Findings: It was found that complex logistics organizations can be successfully modelled as Engineered System of Systems and managed according to the principles applicable to such systems. Furthermore, it was shown that it is possible to combine two different concepts, namely High Reliability Organization and Resilient Enterprise, into one coherent whole in the form of a Reliable and Resilient Logistics Organization. Practical Implications: For practical use of the developed concept, a framework was designed in the form of an algorithm describing the process of creating Reliable and Resilient Logistics Organization in the form of successive stages of action and decisions. Originality/value: The concept of the Reliable and Resilient Logistics Organization is wholly original and is the result of many years of our research into the behavior of complex socio-technical systems under uncertainty. The added value of the work is the model developed, which in the form of a framework can be used in practice in logistics organizations to ensure their continuous and effective operation under various conditions, both predictable and unpredictable changes in the environment.

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by Piotr Białowolski, Michał Masior 

Abstract: 

This article provides a comprehensive assessment of changes in the quality of legal services in Poland. From 2005 to 2015, changes in the regulatory framework facilitated access to legal professions in Poland, providing a space for employment growth. Our analysis showed that an increase in the number of legal professionals following deregulation did not lead to a decline in the quality of legal services in any dimensions. However, it coincided with improved access to legal services. The results were based on a comprehensive survey conducted among consumers of legal services. The survey used the SERVQUAL approach previously adopted by the Legal Services Consumers Panel in England and Wales and focused principally on the process and outcome measures to capture the changes in quality of legal services. The mostly negative results pointing to no significant changes were confirmed by the secondary analysis based on a survey of judges, a group of professionals capable of objectively assessing the quality of lawyers' work. Their reports supported the claim of the lack of decline in legal service quality following the reduction in barriers to entry to legal professions.

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by

Abstract:

This paper aims to identify the determinants of the decarbonisation processes in Poland within the scope of energy transformation. The purpose of the study is to identify how the public perceives decarbonisation determinants in order to develop a sustainable energy strategy for Poland. The transition of the energy market to low-carbon technology is a policy challenge. Governments must implement policies that are environmentally friendly, cost-effective, but, most of all, socially acceptable. Social acceptance risk plays a significant role in Poland, influencing the decarbonisation process. In Poland’s case, the coal share is decreasing, but it is still the most important fuel for electricity production. This process of decarbonisation is a fundamental influence on the transformation of the energy sector in Poland. The social perception of solutions that can be applied was examined. The Polish natural environment is poisoned. Poles suffer from diseases related to the burning of coal for energy production. Societal awareness, how people perceive the government’s actions, and what they expect in this regard is crucial.

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by Ryszard Borowiecki, Zbigniew Olesinski, Agnieszka Rzepka, Katarzyna Hys

Abstract:

Purpose: The aim of this article is to present the impact of Economy 4.0 on the development of Teal organizations. It has been assumed here that every organization must adapt to change by applying soft management factors (trust, knowledge, agility) in a changing reality. Methodology: During the research, the following work was carried out: desk research, individual in-depth interview, and a questionnaire. The study covered 300 respondents from various micro and small enterprises. The article is based on the first stage of empirical research conducted in 2020. Findings: The research results show that organizations must adapt to changes resulting from the evolution of organizations in Economy 4.0. Flexibility in adapting to change, agility and the willingness of employees to gain new work experience will be particularly demanded by Economy 4.0. Practical Implications: Given the rapid pace of social and economic change, it seems advisable to monitor the functioning of organizations, including business organizations, continuously and systematically in the face of Economy 4.0. Originality/Value: The presented results of the pilot studies show which soft skills will influence the development of organization, especially Teal. The way the organization develops and the direction it takes is the primary responsibility of its leaders.

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by Ryszard Borowiecki, Barbara Siuta-Tokarska, Jolanta Maroń ,Marcin Suder, Agnieszka Thier, Katarzyna Żmija

Abstract: 

The main objective of the paper is to present the development of digital economy and society in the Countries of the European Union in the light of the digital convergence of these markets. The analysis was based on the data on the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI) from 2015 and 2020. Empirical studies have been conducted in two stages. First, basic measures of time series dynamics were used to determine the dynamics of changes in index values. On the other hand, in order to classify countries in terms of similarity of value and structure of the DESI, a cluster analysis was used as one of the basic methods of the so-called unsupervised statistical grouping. The studies presented confirm that the levels of indicators and the dynamics of changes in their value at the level of the synthetic DESI indicator, and in the five underlying areas of analysis, vary despite the fact that almost all are pro-growth, including for isolated clusters of EU-28 countries. When analyzing the DESI synthetic index and its components, it was concluded that there is generally an increase in convergence between the EU-28 countries in terms of the level of development of the digital economy and society, as well as in four components: Connectivity, Human Capital, Use of Internet Services and Digital Public Services. The Integration of Digital Technology area was the only one where increasing polarization of results was observed. The added value of the paper is to fill the research gap in research on the digital convergence of markets in the Countries of the European Union

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by Magdalena Kraczla

Abstract:

Purpose: The article aims to grasp the relations between the ego states constituting the personality of a human being (manager) and his/her ways of reacting to stressful situations. Knowledge in this area is fascinating from a cognitive point of view and gives excellent opportunities associated with the optimisation of human resources management in the practice of managing enterprises. Design/Methodology/Approach: Two research tools were used in the studies presented in this paper, the CISS Questionnaire and the Ego State Scale of Kälin. The CISS Test enables measuring stress coping styles on three scales, task-oriented coping, emotion-oriented coping, avoidance-oriented coping (SSU). The Ego State Scale refers to the functional model and its authors distinguish the following states, Controlling Parent, Nurturing Parent, Adult, Free Child and Adapted Child. Findings: The paper presents results of studies the purpose of which was to capture the relation between the ego states, comprising an individual’s identity, and the mode in which the individual reacts to stressful situations. The knowledge gathered about the correlation between the individual ego states and styles of coping with stress was subjected to a multi-aspect analysis and interpretation, whereas its results offer a good insight into the mechanisms and causes of such relations. Practical Implications: Knowledge about the mutual determinants between the ego states and the preferred styles of coping with stress also offers extensive possibilities of taking practical development steps, aimed at increasing the efficiency of individuals becoming liberated from the adverse impact of stress-inducing stimuli. Originality/Value: The received results have great cognitive and practical significance. They confirm a very close relation between personality and modes in which people handle stress and explain which type of personality features correlate with individual stress coping styles. Increasing interest in Transactional Analysis follows from the fact that it is a theory that delivers a series of practical indications, possible for implementation whilst taking correcting or development actions.

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by Małgorzata Markowska, Danuta Strahl and Andrzej Sokołowski

Abstract:

Purpose: The aim of the paper is to analyze the educational and smart society development process in the European Union countries, in 2003-2017. Design/Methodology/Approach: 17 variables have been used for the multivariate analysis of the problem. Multiple regression was the main method for missing data imputation. The number of clusters was identified in dendrogram of Ward’s agglomerative clustering method, and final partition obtained by k-means method. Composite Index of Educational and Smart Development has been proposed to measure the general level of each cluster. Findings: Five cluster have been identified and characterized. Their dynamic geographical composition changed over time with a tendency for many countries to move toward higher level clusters. Practical Implications: It seems that educational part of Europe 2020 Strategy works rather well for most of the EU countries Originality/Value: The choice of variables is always somehow subjective. Dynamic cluster analysis seems to be promising approach in identifying changes in both level and structure. The new measure for cluster stability has been proposed in the paper.

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by Luma Al-Qudah, Barbara Piontek, Judit Olah

Abstract:

Purpose: The objective of this study is to analyze the relationship that exists among economic growth and FDI in Jordan empirically, and the role of financial development in shaping this relationship. Design/Methodology/Approach: This research used the process of deductive reasoning approach, associated with quantitative research, supported by empiricism and positivism as philosophical positions. Growth Indicators, FDI, financial development and other control variables data that covered the period between 1993-2018 were used. The analysis method of Johansen’s co-integration will be applied to figure out if the relationship between economic growth, FDI and financial development exist. Findings: The Johansen’s co-integration has found out that there is a long-term relationship between FDI, financial development and economic growth. Also, interaction between stock market financial development indicators and FDI was statistically evident. Practical Implications: Our research contributes to the literature by examining if FDI is growth inducing through networks of financial development, and other factors that could drive growth alongside with FDI. Research shows professionals that a well-developed financial market will improve FDI's spillover impact on economic growth. A well-developed stock market will speed up capital accumulation activities and output growth by providing sufficient liquidity services that improve linkages between domestic and foreign investors. Originality/Value: The novelty of the research is to determine the correlation between FDI and Economic growth in Jordan which should be accounted in the long-term development of all developing countries. At the same time, this study is a step forward towards analysing the relationship that exists among economic growth and FDI in Jordan.

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by Malgorzata Markowska, Andrzej Sokolowski, Danuta Strahl

Abstract:

Purpose: The aim of the paper is to propose a flexible procedure to Multidimensional Scaling, allowing to calculate the input distance matrix based on slightly different set of variables for each pair of objects. Design/Methodology/Approach: The procedure starts from the classical standardization of each variable. Before the calculation of flexible distance between two objects, we eliminate the variable with the biggest absolute value in the first object, and the same we do for the second object. So, we have two variables less in the list for these two objects. If by chance the same variable is pointed for elimination by both objects, the next variable with the biggest (out of both objects) absolute standardized value should be eliminated. With this procedure, each element of distance matrix is based on the same number of variables, but some of actual variables can be different. Findings: As an example – Flexible Multidimensional Scaling is performed on the list of 17 variables describing so called smart society, for 28 European Union countries. It shows how the proposed procedure works in practice. Practical Implications: The proposed flexible procedure can be used for the analysis of any problem treated by Multidimensional Scaling. Originality/Value: Flexible Multidimensional Scaling (FMDS) is a new idea and method. It eliminates some elements of subjective choice of initial variables and seems to be more robust against outliers than classical Multidimensional Scaling (MDS).

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by Janusz Grabara, Arsen Tleppayev, Malika Dabylova, Leonardus W. W. Mihardjo, Zdzisława Dacko-Pikiewicz

Abstract: 

In this contemporary era, environmental problems spread at different levels in all countries of the world. Economic growth does not just depend on prioritizing the environment or improving the environmental situation. If the foreign direct investment is directed to the polluting industries, they will increase pollution and damage the environment. The purpose of the study is to consider the relationship between foreign direct investment in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan and economic growth and renewable energy consumption. The study is based on data obtained from 1992 to 2018. The results show that there is a two-way link between foreign direct investment and renewable energy consumption in the considered two countries. The Granger causality test approach is applied to explore the causal relationship between the variables. The Johansen co-integration test approach is also employed to test for a relationship. The empirical results verify the existence of co-integration between the series. The main factors influencing renewable energy are economic growth and electricity consumption. To reduce dependence on fuel-based energy sources, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan need to attract energy to renewable energy sources and implement energy efficiency based on rapid progress. This is because renewable energy sources play the role of an engine that stimulates the production process in the economy for all countries.

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by Magdalena Kot-Radojewska and Jacek Wodz

Abstract: 

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to present the results of a study on employee engagement in organisations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/Methodology/Approach: The paper presents the results of a survey conducted during the pandemic among 123 employees working for organisations of various kinds. The questionnaire survey was carried out using the computer-assisted web interviewing (CAWI) methodology. The process was based on certain claims of grounded theory. Statistical analysis was carried out using basic methods of descriptive statistics, statistical tests and selected methods of multivariate statistics, including the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin Measure of Sampling Adequacy, Bartlett's Test of Sphericity. Findings: The overall level of organisational engagement in organisations that operated during the pandemic was rated as moderate by the respondents, with the most favourably assessed issues including communication between employees and supervisors, sense of job stability, concern for the fate of the organisation, mutual inspiration to work, and employees' sense of satisfaction with being part of the organisation. The results also revealed statistically significant correlations between the different elements of organisational engagement. Practical Implications: The practical implications that arise from the results obtained in the study concern mainly the role of organisational engagement for effective operations of an organisation, including during a crisis situation, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The results show that taking action to improve communication and cooperation, promoting the policy of equal opportunities and capabilities, fair treatment and evaluation of employees and many other instruments can foster the development of employee engagement, which brings results in the form of higher level of job satisfaction, stability and efficiency, thus improving the operations of the organisation. Originality/Value: This paper is an attempt at filling the gap in the area of the status, role and value of organisational engagement during this pandemic, which may prove to be relevant for companies given the current circumstances, as well as possible future unpredictable challenges.

Keywords: Human Resource Management; engagement; COVID-19; pandemic; crisis.

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by Bożena Gajdzik, Włodzimierz Sroka, Jolita Vveinhardt 

Abstract: 

The production of steel in the world is dominated by two types of technologies: BF + BOF (the blast furnace and basic oxygen furnace, also known as integrated steel plants) and EAF (the electric arc furnace). The BF + BOF process uses a lot of natural resources (iron ore is a feedstock for steel production) and fossil fuels. As a result, these steel mills have a significantly negative impact on the environment. In turn, EAF technology is characterised by very low direct emissions and very high indirect emissions. The raw material for steel production is steel scrap, the processing of which is highly energy-consuming. This paper analyses the energy intensity of steel production in Poland as a function of investments made in the steel industry in the years 2000–2019. Statistical data on steel production in the EAF process in Poland (which represents an approximately 50% share of the steel produced, as the rest is produced utilising the BF + BOF process) was used. Slight fluctuations are caused by the periodic switching of technology for economic or technical reasons. The hypothesis stating that there is a relationship between the volume of steel production utilising the EAF process and the energy consumption of the process, which is influenced by investments, was formulated. Econometric modelling was used as the research method and three models were constructed: (1) a two-factor power model; (2) a linear two-factor model; and (3) a linear one-factor model. Our findings show that the correlation is negative, that is, along with the increase in technological investments in electric steel plants in Poland, a decrease in the energy consumption of steel produced in electric furnaces was noted during the analysed period.

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by Paulina Polko

Abstract:
The European Green Deal (EGD) is a set of policy initiatives by the European Union with the overarching and ambitious aim of making Europe climate neutral in 2050. Being world's first 'climate-neutral bloc' and fulfilling other goals extending to many different sectors, including construction, biodiversity, energy, transport, food and others has also an impact on different sectors of security. The implementation of the tasks set out in the EGD requires taking into account the necessity of sustainability in reaching the goals, including not violating sectoral security in the EU Member States. Nexus approach might be useful in the processes of finding and implementation of particular solutions.

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by Romualdas Ginevičius, Yuriy Bilan, Grzegorz Kądzielawski, Miloslav Novotny, Tomasz Kośmider

Abstract: 

National economic development largely depends on the development of the energy sector. Its condition is most commonly assessed based on the situation over the last year. An alternative approach, however, is to evaluate fluctuations in development that have occurred over a longer period. In this paper, both methodologies have been applied, in order to assess, based on the results, which of them is more accurate. The article hypothesizes that the second method is more accurate. To prove this empirically, values representing the energy development in various sectors (industrial, agricultural, transport, service and the other (miscellaneous) sectors) in various European countries over the 2009–2018 period were estimated. The development fluctuations that occurred during the period under consideration were evaluated according to two parameters—intensity and stability. The first parameter was taken to be the difference between the values representing energy development in a given sectors at the end and beginning of the period under consideration. The second parameter was taken as the aggregate change across consecutive time slots during which positive or negative fluctuations occurred. The value of energy development in a particular economic sector was estimated as the product of the latter coefficient and the development intensity indicator. Comparison of the results representing evaluation of energy development based on the methodology proposed, and the analysis of the situation in the last year for which data was available revealed that the results in both cases differed, with the values varying from 2% (for the transport sector) to 4.5% (for the agricultural sector). Taking into account the fact that the indicator representing energy development in particular economic sectors was estimated as a percentage of the total sectoral energy consumption, this difference was relatively significant (22.7 and 1.5% respectively). Thus, the findings suggest that application of the proposed methodology is relevant. The methodology provides a greater potential to adequately research issues related to national economic development.

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by Nestor Shpak, Ihor Kulyniak, Maryana Gvozd, Jolita Vveinhardt, Natalia Horbal 

Abstract:

The agricultural sector is one of the leading ones in the economy of many countries, as it creates the basis for their economic growth. Every region in every country has its own unique sphere of social reproduction due to different resource potential, i.e., fertile soils, favourable climatic conditions, etc. Under such conditions, it is irrelevant to choose a single development path for this sector. Given these facts, the study formulates development strategies for regional agricultural development of the country. In particular, we grouped regions into clusters according to the level of development of crop production and stockbreeding potential, as well as investment attractiveness. The method of cluster analysis was used to group regions by the level of capacity development, whilst the matrix method was used to formulate a matrix for choice of the strategy to improve the agricultural potential of regions. On the basis of the conducted analysis, the 3D matrix for the choice of investment strategy of the regional agricultural development of the country depending on the level of development of crop production and stockbreeding potential and investment attractiveness was constructed.

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by Dhowmya Bhatt, Danalakshmi D, A. Hariharasudan, Marcin Lis, Marlena Grabowska

Abstract:
The utilization of energy is on the rise in current trends due to increasing consumptions by households. Smart buildings, on the other hand, aim to optimize energy, and hence, the aim of the study is to forecast the cost of energy consumption in smart buildings by effectively addressing the minimal energy consumption. However, smart buildings are restricted, with limited power access and capacity associated with Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) units. It further suffers from low communication capability due to device limitations. In this paper, a balanced deep learning architecture is used to offer solutions to address these constraints. The deep learning algorithm considers three constraints, such as a multi-objective optimization problem and a fitness function, to resolve the price management problem and high-level energy consumption in HVAC systems. The study analyzes and optimizes the consumption of power in smart buildings by the HVAC systems in terms of power loss, price management and reactive power. Experiments are conducted over various scenarios to check the integrity of the system over various smart buildings and in high-rise buildings. The results are compared in terms of various HVAC devices on various metrics and communication protocols, where the proposed system is considered more effective than other methods. The results of the Li-Fi communication protocols show improved results compared to the other communication protocols.

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by Piotr Bialowolski, Dorota Weziak-Bialowolska

Abstract:

This study evaluated the short-term links between different forms of household debt—credit card debt, student debt, debt from relatives, mortgage debt, car debt, and debt arrears—and life satisfaction. To this end, a longitudinal dataset for the US population from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) was used and the propensity score difference-in-differences approach was applied. Credit card debt and student loans negatively impacted life satisfaction in the short term (up to 2 years). Mortgages and external financing for a car, however, were found to increase life satisfaction. The effects associated with the initial uptake and final repayment of a loan turned out to not be symmetrical—the end of any type of loan contract was not related to life satisfaction. In the case of involuntary debt (i.e., mortgage arrears), a significant negative impact on life satisfaction was noted when problems emerged, while a positive effect was found when the debts were paid off.

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by Bogulaw Kogut, Marek Magniszewski, Pawel Lubiewski, Stanislaw Topolewski

Abstract:

Purpose: Information has an impact on the attitudes, behavior and actions of its recipients, and given its important role in public life, it should be subject to appropriate protection to ensure its security. It therefore becomes important to create appropriate administrative and legal conditions for the protection of information security, which is currently a priority both in Poland and in the European Union. Design/Methodology/Approach: The research was conducted using the methods of problem analysis and synthesis, with the main objective being to optimize the research field with a view to future studies. Findings: The research analysis has found the significant impact of administrative and legal conditions, in particular the need to create normative solutions to ensure information security. Due to the category of threats to information security, the desired solutions concern both Poland in particular and the European Union as a whole. Practical Implications: The problems addressed in the paper may help raise awareness of the rapid spread of information security and generate interest for different bodies in the category of related threats.. Originality: The paper tackles problems that are particularly important nowadays from the standpoint of both individual citizens as well as different entities which use information, regardless of their function in society.

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by Gualter Coutoa, Dulce Martinsb, Pedro Pimentela, Rui Alexandre Castanho

Abstract:

This study aims to evaluate unexploited urban land in Portugal, for the construction of new apartments, with the real options analysis's contribution, using the Quigg model, adapted to the reality of the Portuguese market. This work defines a value associated with the land, referring to the construction option. This option gives the right, but not the obligation, to build the project at any time. Therefore, the new land value is maximized in the optimal timing to define the best moment to carry out the investment. The study shows that in the Portuguese case, when the time horizon changes from 5 to 10 years, both the value of the deferral options and the global value of the land increase considerably, exposing the deferral options' sensitivity to the time horizon variable in the process of evaluation. Besides, considering the land evaluation process in Portugal, it is possible to conclude that, on average, the deferral option represents 9,09% of the land's final value, varying between 1,40% and 20,10%. The decision to defer the construction of the investment project adds value to the undeveloped land and should be considered in the investment decision-making process.

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by Anna Kwiotkowska, Bożena Gajdzik, Radosław Wolniak, Jolita Vveinhardt, Magdalena Gębczyńska 

Abstract:

Leadership competencies are of crucial importance in every organisation as to a large extent they determine its success. This is especially evident in the time of Industry 4.0. Given this fact, the aim of our paper is to examine the relationship between leadership competencies and 4.0 leadership effectiveness. The heat and power plants industry was chosen as the subject of our research. The fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fs/QCA) was used as the research method. It enabled us not only to analyse particular variables, competences, and typical statistical relations between them, but we also revealed the patterns of causal relationships between particular variables. The key finding of our research was the juxtaposition of leadership competencies that are indispensable for 4.0 leaders in the CHP plants. We also found out that managerial competencies were not sufficient, and they should be supported by intellectual or socio-emotional ones.

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by Magdalena Wojcik-Jurkiewicz, Aleksandra Lubicz-Posochowska, Marzena Czarnecka, Grzegorz Kinelski, Beata Sadowska

Abstract:

Purpose: This article aims to show whether there are other mechanisms for dealing with customer complaints than those proposed by the platforms. Who is responsible for the content on the platforms? The aim of this article is to show that there are no rules other than private international law that allow customers to enforce their rights. Design/Methodology/Approach: The authors use a literature review methodology consisting of a bibliographic analysis and an analysis of legal acts. The scientific argument concerns the study of the legal regulations' weaknesses based on a case study in the form of cases negotiated in international fora. The main objective of this research method was to identify the circumstances of legislative failure. Findings: These regulatory findings could pave the way for emerging research on the role of digitalization for sharing practices. Practical implications: The practical implications of this article are enormous. First, it should be noted that law has not always kept pace with economical solutions, and in this case, there is no opportunity for clear legal rules that allow customers to safely conduct transactions outside of the self-regulation of these online platforms. Originality/Value: There has not yet been an examination of the law in practice - i.e., a discussion of regulatory options for international digital platforms.

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by Zahid Shafait, Muhammad Asif Khan, Yuriy Bilan, Judit Oláh 

Abstract:

Objective: Drawing on the knowledge-based view and ability-based theories of emotional intelligence (EI), in this study, we investigate the effects of EI on learning outcomes related to academics and administrators in Chinese research universities and we also test the direct association between learning outcomes and creative performance. In addition, we examine the mediating role of self-directed learning (SDL) and knowledge management processes (KMPs) on the relationship between EI and learning outcomes. Methods: The sample, for this study, consisted of 547 academic and administrative personnel at Chinese higher educational institutions (HEIs), and the hypothesized associations were examined through partial least squares structural equation modeling. Results: Our results indicated that EI has no significant influence on learning outcomes. However, an indirect relationship between EI and learning outcomes is established through SDL and KMPs. Conclusions: This study strengthens the professional understanding of EI and supports that the personnel at HEIs should value SDL and KMPs, which in turn enhances their learning outcomes. Although EI has received increased importance in higher education institutions, there are few studies that have investigated the relationship of EI, SDL, KMP, and learning outcomes. This is one of the initial studies that has empirically examined the interface of EI and learning outcomes in HEIs and also provides timely insights into the understanding of the mediating role of SDL and KMP.

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by  Ján Závadský, Zuzana Závadská and Katarzyna Szczepańska-Woszczyna

Abstract:

Purpose: The main objective of this paper is to develop the I4 necessity index for quantification of process improvement exigency related to I4. Design/Methodology/Approach: Based on literature review and previous research, we decided to develop a new I4N index. This index is not intended to identify the current state of Industry 4.0 or the company's readiness for this concept, but to assess the need to implement I4. By implementing I4 we mean mostly the deployment of intelligent technologies, informatization and automation of business processes. Our philosophy is to develop a simple design for a minimum number of factors that may give rise to an internal or external need to implement I4. The secondary output of the I4N index is the quantification of the level of process improvement potential related to the selected production and logistic processes. Findings: We emphasize, it as a demand or more specifically, an exigency, rather than a readiness for Industry 4.0. We developed an Industry 4.0 necessity index (I4N index). We assigned weights to individual factors in order to quantify the process improvement exigency related to I4 and we used the list of manufacturing and logistic processes from previous research. We did not apply the list of intelligent technologies, although most indexes of the I4 readiness also take these technologies into account. Practical Implications: The basic approach of our research was to create a mathematical model that could easily quantify the potential for improving business processes related to Industry 4.0.

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by Bożena Gajdzik, Włodzimierz Sroka 

Abstract:

Resource intensity is a measure of the resources needed for the production, processing and disposal of good or services. Its level decides on the costs the companies have to bear both for production and for environmental protection, which in turn have a crucial importance for their competitiveness. Given these facts, our study analyses the issues of resource intensity in the Polish steel industry in correlation to investments made, and more specifically, to the impact of investments on the consumption of energy media used during steel production. Its key element is the development of econometric models presenting the impact of investments on resource consumption in steel production in Poland. Electricity and coke consumption were analysed according to manufacturing installation. The research was carried out on the basis of statistical data for the period of 2004–2018. The obtained findings confirmed the impact of the increase in investment on the decrease in the resource intensity in steel production in Poland. These facts have implications for both policy makers, as they confirm the thesis on a direct correlation between investments in technology and a reduction in resource intensity (environmental protection), as well as company managers. In the case of the latter, the data show the actions which companies should focus on in their activities.

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by Piotr W. Saługa ,Krzysztof Zamasz, Zdzisława Dacko-Pikiewicz, Katarzyna Szczepańska-Woszczyna, Marcin Malec

Abstract: 
The concept of risk is well known in the energy sector. It is normally recognized when it comes to price and cost forecasting, annual production calculation, or evaluating project lifetime. Nevertheless, it should be pointed out that the quantitative evaluation of risk is usually difficult. The discount rate is the only parameter reflecting risk in the discounted cash flow analysis. Therefore, knowledge of the discount rate along with the major components affecting its level is of fundamental significance for making investment decisions, capital budgeting, and project management. By referring to the standard coal-fired power generation projects the authors of the paper tackle the analysis of the composition of discount rate for onshore wind farm technologies in the Polish conditions. The study was carried out on the basis of a typical (hypothetical) onshore wind farm project assessed at the feasibility stage. To enable comparisons and discussions, it was assumed that the best reference point for such purposes is the real risk-adjusted discount rate, RADR, after-tax, in all equity evaluations (the ‘bare bones’ assumption); that is because such a rate reflects the inherent characteristics of the project risk. The study methodology involves the a priori application of the discount rate level and subsequently—in an analytical way—calculation of its individual components. The starting point for the analysis of the RADR’s composition was the definition of risk, understood as the product of uncertainty and consequences. Then, the risk factors were adopted and level of uncertainty assessed. Subsequently, using the classical sensitivity analysis of IRR, the consequences (as slopes of sensitivity lines) were calculated. Consequently, risk portions in percentage forms were received. Eventually, relative risks and risk components within cost of equity were assessed. Apart from the characteristics of the discount rate at the feasibility stage, in the discussion section the study was supplemented with an analogous analysis of the project’s cost of equity at the operating stage.

Keywords: onshore wind; risk assessment; cash-flows; discount rate; cost of capital; cost of equity

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by Shpak Nestor, Ihor Kulyniak, Maryana Gvozd, Olga Pyrog,Włodzimierz Sroka

Abstract:

Many countries face with a shadow economy today. This phenomenon is a real problem for the governments, especially in the context of significant upheavals, reducing
fiscal potential, distorting the development indicators and complicating any analytical conclusions about the state of the economic system. Given these facts the study analyses the problem of shadow industry in the Ukraine’s regions, in particular by evaluating the integral index of financial and economic security of the industry. Its goals are: 1) development of the theoretical and applied approaches to the impact of the shadow economy on the public administration in relation to financial and economic security of industry in the regions of the country; 2) improvement of the methodology for governmental policy analysis of the level of the shadow economy in the said industry. Recommendation of the public policy measures to reduce the level of shadow industry in the regions were also presented. The method of analytic hierarchy process, the expert methods and the method of calculating the integral index as research methods were used in the study. Based on the analysis conducted, the matrix of strategic zones “Level of the shadow economy - level of the financial and economic security” was constructed. The proposed matrix should be useful in taking public management decisions, depending on the strategic area in which the region is located.

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by Elena Smirnova, Katarzyna Szczepańska-Woszczyna, Saltanat Yessetova, Vadim Samusenkov, Rodion Rogulin

Abstract:

The purpose of the study is to assess the level of energy supply to the population of the Eastern Europe, Caucasus, and Central Asian (EECCA) countries, taking into account their financial risk and energy efficiency for households as potential socially vulnerable consumers. The research methodology is based on three approaches to determining the energy poverty of the population, as well as the integral index of energy supply to socially vulnerable segments of the population. Based on the results of the three approaches to assessing the level of energy supply to the population of EECCA countries, it has been revealed that its critical indicators are found in Armenia, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Ukraine. The multivariate analysis of variance has revealed that, in all EECCA countries, both financial risk and energy efficiency levels have a significant impact. In Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Russia, financial risk has the greatest impact on the level of energy supply to socially vulnerable segments of the population, while in other EECCA countries the energy efficiency factor has the strongest impact. In a number of EECCA countries, households have poor energy supply and require efficient and reliable operation, the introduction of energy-efficient technologies for home maintenance, and the improvement of related programs. The novelty of this study lies in the proposed methodological approach to assessing the supply of energy resources to socially unprotected segments of the population, which makes it possible to determine the impact of financial risk and energy efficiency in EECCA countries.

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by Katarzyna Chruzik and Marzena Graboń-Chałupczak

Abstract:
Safety monitoring provides the detection of changes in systems or operations that may suggest any case of approaching a point close to exceeding the acceptable safety standards and indicates whether corrective/prevention actions have been taken. Safety information should be maintained within the scope of transport undertakings to ensure safety and be communicated to all responsible staff, depending on each person’s function in the processes. Regulatory authorities should continuously monitor the implementation of safety management processes and the processes performed by road transport service providers. Safety management, therefore, requires investment in development and modernisation to meet market needs resulting from the mobility of residents, the growth of transport, and the obligations of countries resulting from the transport and environmental policy pursued by the European Union. Along with changes in the transport system, a need to assess their significance for the transport system’s safety arises. Depending on the transport mode (rail, air, water, road), the scope of standardised requirements is quite different each time. The paper analyses the legal requirements and acceptable practices for assessing the significance of the change in all transport modes and develops a standard method for assessing the significance of the change that meets all the requirements of electromobility safety management systems.

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by Magdalena M. Stuss, Zbigniew J. Makieła, Agnieszka Herdan, Gabriela Kuźniarska

Abstract:

If corporate social responsibility (CSR) is expected to work efficiently, there should be a standardised approach for implementation of the CSR concept for all businesses, including companies operating in the energy sector. Although many companies declare compliance with CSR standards, further investigation should be undertaken to evaluate if and how those standards have been applied in practice. The aim of this research is to examine the level of standardisation of the CSR activities within Polish energy companies and explore the good practices developed by those companies. The Polish energy companies have been selected for the investigation as the literature review we conducted demonstrates that there is limited research in this area and there is a knowledge gap regarding how Polish energy companies apply CSR regulation in practice. To accomplish the stated aims, the following research questions were developed: (1) What is the essence of applying the CSR concept in Polish energy companies, and at what level of development is the concept applied? (2) To what extent do Polish energy companies have a common approach to the CSR concept, and in what areas are there differences? (3) To what extent have Polish energy companies applied global CSR standards and solutions? (4) Is there a gap between the declared measures of CSR and their actual implementation in Polish energy companies? The research methodology of this study is based on a systematic literature review of the sources acquired from databases such as ProQuest, Emerald, SCOPUS and the Jagiellonian University Library. The multiple case study approach was identified as the most suitable research tool. Companies for the study were selected according to their affiliation to the energy sector and listing on the main market of the Warsaw Stock Exchange. These two assumptions allowed us to base this study on the largest Polish energy companies that have international status. Six areas of CSR annual report disclosures have been identified and used for the investigation and analysis. This research looks at similarities and difference between these six aspects of CSRs disclosed by Polish energy companies. The investigation allows us to conclude that the top three energy companies use similar tools to build their CSR strategies: formalised CSR concept, published CSR reports, disclosure of CSR information on the company website, CSR related activities offered to stakeholders, obtained CSR certificates, and CSR awards. This indicates the existence of a standardised approach to CSR across Polish energy companies.

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by Beata Buchelt, Bernard Ziębicki, Joanna Jończyk, Joanna Dzieńdziora 

Abstract: 

Polish healthcare providers already struggle with a deficiency concerning human resources, especially with regard to doctors and nurses. Because of this, effective HRM interventions should be taken in order to attract and retain medical personnel. Employer branding is one such intervention because it not only results in improving the organization's reputation as an employer but also improving HRM practices. However, to create an effective employer branding strategy, a contextual approach should be taken. Because of this, the aim of the study is to assess the importance of various factors influencing medical personnel’s perception of a hospital’s attractiveness as an employer.

The study was performed among 285 hospitals in Poland assuming a confidence level of 0.95. In each hospital, five respondents took part in the survey. The first cohort of respondents named ‘Directors’ consisted of hospital directors or employees authorized by them, mostly HR specialists. The other four groups were: ‘Hybrid Doctors Managers’ (individuals who had the roles of both doctor and manager); ‘Hybrid Nurses Managers’ (having the roles of both manager and nurse); ‘Physicians’; ‘Nurses’. Due to the ordinal nature of the data, the chi-square test of independence was used and the V-Cramer coefficient was determined. To indicate significant discrepancies between the responses of the respondents’ cohorts, the Kruskal–Wallis rank test was conducted.

Various groups of respondents perceive hospital attractiveness as an employer differently. While the opinions of medical personnel are more or less homogeneous, the cohort of employees responsible for HRM are less consistent with regard to their perception of hospital attractiveness. Additionally, ‘Directors’ highlight tangible factors determining hospital desirability. Moreover, their hierarchy of the top five factors influencing EB clearly exposes their quantitative orientation towards hospital performance management. Medical personnel hierarchies of the determinants expose qualitative orientation. Excluding country-dependent factors, such as regularity of remuneration payment, the professionals value such determinants as a nice work atmosphere, cooperation with colleagues (specialists), good working conditions and, most importantly, employment stability. The last determinant results from generational and gender tendencies (feminization), and yet it stands in contradiction with a tendency of flexible employment implemented in most developed countries due to a lack of medical personnel.

The results showed the importance of adapting employer branding strategies to the medical professional groups (doctors and nurses). This is because their perception of employers’ attractiveness differ. In addition, elements of the profession genotypes play an important role in how the physicians and nurses value various factors creating the employers’ attractiveness. The research also revealed the fact that top managers or HR specialists can wrongly identify the hospitals attractiveness since they are more quantitatively than qualitatively oriented. For this reason, they may implement inefficient EB strategies.

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by Rahel M. Schomaker, Ann-Katrin Mandry, Marko Hack

Abstract:

The Covid-19 pandemic is a multi-faceted crisis that challenges not only the health systems and other policy sub-systems in the single Member States, but also the European Union’s ability to provide policy responses that address the transnational nature of pandemic control as a union-wide ‘public good’ that affects health and social policies, border control and security as well as topics related to the single market. Thus, the pandemic constitutes a veritable capacity test for the EU integration project.

This article attempts to take stock of the Union’s early reaction to the first wave of the Covid-19 outbreak. After an introduction and a short note on the scope and methodology of the analysis a theoretical framework is developed. Scrutinising the pertinent literature on crisis management, we reflect the traditional hypothesis that in times of crisis the centre becomes more relevant against the background of the EU crisis management system, and discuss the role of informality in particular during the time of crisis. Against this backdrop, empirical evidence from interviews with EU officials and documents in selected policy fields (health and emergency management, digitalisation, and economic recovery) are analysed, before a discussion and conclusion complete the study.

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by Magdalena Wójcik-Jurkiewicz, Marzena Czarnecka, Grzegorz Kinelski, Beata Sadowska, Katarzyna Bilińska-Reformat

Abstract: 
This paper aims to identify the determinants of the decarbonisation processes in Poland within the scope of energy transformation. The purpose of the study is to identify how the public perceives decarbonisation determinants in order to develop a sustainable energy strategy for Poland. The transition of the energy market to low-carbon technology is a policy challenge. Governments must implement policies that are environmentally friendly, cost-effective, but, most of all, socially acceptable. Social acceptance risk plays a significant role in Poland, influencing the decarbonisation process. In Poland’s case, the coal share is decreasing, but it is still the most important fuel for electricity production. This process of decarbonisation is a fundamental influence on the transformation of the energy sector in Poland. The social perception of solutions that can be applied was examined. The Polish natural environment is poisoned. Poles suffer from diseases related to the burning of coal for energy production. Societal awareness, how people perceive the government’s actions, and what they expect in this regard is crucial.

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by Saddam Hossain, Beáta Gavurová, Xianghui Yuan,Morshadul Hasan, Judit Oláh

Abstract:

This paper analyzes the statistical impact of COVID-19 on the S&P500 and the CSI300 intraday momentum. This study employs an empirical method, that is, the intraday momentum method used in this research. Also, the predictability of timing conditional strategies is also used here to predict the intraday momentum of stock returns. In addition, this study aims to estimate and forecast the coefficients in the stock market pandemic crisis through a robust standard error approach. The empirical findings indicate that the intraday market behavior an unusual balanced; the volatility and trading volume imbalance and the return trends are losing overwhelmingly. The consequence is that the first half-hour return will forecast the last half-hour return of the S&P500, but during the pandemic shock, the last half-hour of both stock markets will not have a significant impact on intraday momentum. Additionally, market timing strategy analysis is a significant factor in the stock market because it shows the perfect trading time, decides investment opportunities and which stocks will perform well on this day. Besides, we also found that when the volatility and volume of the S&P500 are both at a high level, the first half-hour has been a positive impact, while at the low level, the CSI300 has a negative impact on the last half-hour. In addition, this shows that the optimistic effect and positive outlook of the stockholders for the S&P500 is in the first half-hours after weekend on Monday morning because market open during the weekend holiday, and the mentality of every stockholder’s indicate the positive impression of the stock market.

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by Paweł Kepa, Boguslaw Kogut

Abstract:

Purpose: Road safety is an important sphere for public life. One of the elements influencing the level of safety is lighting of vehicles, which was the subject of the analysis. Design / Methodology / Approach: The research was carried out by problem analysis and their synthesis. Findings: The conducted analysis highlighted the enormous potential related to the impact of vehicle lighting on traffic safety. Practical Implications: The problems described in the article may contribute to increasing awareness of the impact of lighting on road safety. Originality: The article deals with issues and the sphere of public and economic life that are not discussed so often in scientific literature.

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by Łukasz Wróblewski and Marek Walancik

Abstract:

Purpose: The aim of the article is to define the factors that affect the relationship between the inhabitants of the city divided by the border with Polish and Czech cultural institutions, in terms of cultural education. Design/Methodology/Approach: The survey was conducted using the CATI (Computer-Assisted Telephone Interview) technique in October and November 2019 on a randomly selected sample - 1035 inhabitants of Cieszyn (555 respondents from Poland) and Czech Cieszyn (480 people from the Czech side). The acquired data was subjected to factor analysis and SEM (Structural Equation Modelling) analysis. Findings: The results of the SEM analysis confirmed that the instruments identified by the authors had a positive (stimulating) effect on the tendency of the inhabitants of the city divided by the border to establish relations with Polish and Czech cultural institutions. The article proves that the activities of cultural institutions located both on the Polish and Czech sides of the city of Cieszyn - Czech Cieszyn, divided by the border, have a positive impact on establishing relationships between cultural entities and the inhabitants of the city divided by the border. Practical Implications: The analysed instruments can be used in the process of shaping long-term relationships with recipients of the cultural offer on both sides of the border. Originality/value: The article shows that the marketing instruments identified by the authors can also be used in the broadly understood process of cultural education.

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by Durmuş Çağrı Yıldırım ,Seda Yıldırım, Seyfettin Erdoğan, Işıl Demirtaş, Gualter Couto, Rui Alexandre Castanho

Abstract: 

This study proposes the time-varying nonlinear panel unit root test to investigate the convergence of ecological foot prints between the EU and candidate countries. Sixteen European countries (such as Albania, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden and Turkey) and analysis periods are selected according to data availability. This study proposes a cross-sectional Panel KSS with Fourier to test the convergence of the ecological footprints. Then, we combine this methodology with the rolling window method to take into account the time-varying stationarity of series. This study evaluated sub-components of ecological footprints separately and provided more comprehensive findings for the ecological footprint. According to empirical findings, this study proves that convergence or divergence does not show continuity over time. On the other side, this study points out the presence of divergence draws attention when considering the properties of the sub-components in general. As a result, this study shows that international policies by EU countries are generally accepted as successful to reduce ecological footprint, but these are not sufficient as expected. In this point, it is suggested to keep national policies to support international policies in the long term.

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by Zoltan Lakner, Anna Kiss, Bela Vizvari, Jozsef Popp

Abstract:

Purpose: The aim of the article is to describe the characteristic features of the international trade in agricultural products, and to determine how the optimisation of international flow of goods could contribute to reducing the environmental burden of transport. Design/methodology/approach: The research is based on a combination of three key databases - FAOSTAT bilateral commodity trade matrices, CEPII distance tables and the EcoTransIT. Findings: It has been proven that the current international trade relations form dense, scale-free networks, shaped under the influence of both bi- and multilateral historical, cultural, political and economic relations is approved. By the application of linear optimisation for the minimisation of total greenhouse gas emissions it can be proven that the trade in wheat is far from optimal. Theoretically, concerning 2016 is possible to reduce environmental pollution by 38%. In the case of maize the re-organisation of the global trade network could reduce pollution by 18%, and in the case of soya beans by 8%. Comparing the difference between actual and optimal transportation networks based of historical data (2007-2016) it could be proven, that the average additional environmental burden, caused by suboptimal international transport were in case of wheat 36%, in case of maize 11% and in case of soya beans 10%. Practical implications: The optimization of the global trade and international transport of these three commodities offers a more than 500 kt/year decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. Comparative analysis of current and optimized trade networks highlights the increasing importance of the role of regional hubs in key exporting states. Originality/value: This fact underlines the importance the efforts for liberalisation of international trade system.

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by Krzysztof Zamasz, Radosław Kapłan, Przemysław Kaszyński, Piotr W. Saługa

Abstract:

The increasing demand for energy on a global scale, as well as the social pressure related to counteracting the effects of climate change, has created favourable conditions for the transformation of energy sectors towards the possession of low-emission generation sources. This situation, however, requires investment actions in order to modernise the existing power and CHP (Combined Heat and Power) plants and construct new units. These issues, together with the climate and energy policy pursued by the European Union, are the main reasons for the emergence of various governmental mechanisms supporting the replacement of old coal power units with highly efficient cogeneration units based on gas turbines and other units. The support may take different forms. This article discusses two examples of mechanisms available on the Polish market, i.e., (i) the capacity market and (ii) promoting electricity from high-efficiency cogeneration in the form of individual cogeneration premium. The purpose and novelty of the analysis was to identify the pros and cons and the key parameters which determine the advantage of a given mechanism. Both these mechanisms have been characterised and then compared via the example of a planned cogeneration gas unit (an open cycle gas turbine—OCGT). This assessment was made using discount methods based on the FCFF (free cashflow to company) approach. The analysis did not bring forward an unequivocal answer as to the absolute advantage of any of the solutions, but it was able to point out significant problems related to their practical use.

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by Katarzyna Hys, Katarzyna Szczepanska-Woszczyna, Pawel Czart

Abstract:

The current model of resource management mainly contributes to mass short-term consumption, which creates an unstable and extremely critical situation on the planet. Going beyond the traditional industrial model of Take-Make-Waste, the circular economy aims to reduce waste (and therefore minimize costs) and to redefine sustainable development. This entails a gradual separation of economic activity from the consumption of scarce resources and the removal of waste from the system. In order to foreground the principles of a circular economy in Ukraine, this study analyzes its benefits based on the relevant experience of the EU. The paper also presents the results of research and content analysis on the situation of waste management in Ukraine and compares the trends using key indicators. The core of the paper is developing a conceptual model of making and coordinating management decisions on the implementation of business projects in the context of a circular economy in Ukraine. A multifactor model (the Farrar–Glauber method was further developed) has been built by identification of the main factors, i.e., the volume of generated waste from economic activity per unit of GDP at constant prices, emissions of pollutants, and capital investments for the protection of the environment. Factor coefficients indicate how many units will change the resultant trait Y, measured in thousand tonnes, if one of them changes by 1 (each in units of measure). It means that if the volume of waste generated from economic activity per unit of GDP at constant 2011 purchasing power parity (PPP) prices decreases by 1 kg/$1000, waste management of I–IV classes will be reduced by 952,737 thousand tonnes. The approbated model can be used to analyze the situation with recycling in the EU countries, considering the amount of capital investment in environmental protection.

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by Hafezali Iqbal Hussain, Beata Slusarczyk, Fakarudin Kamarudin, Hassanudin Mohd Thas Thaker, Katarzyna Szczepańska-Woszczyna

Abstract:

The enhancement of the financial sector significantly drives a nation’s economy and thereby increase energy intensity. Considering this situation, the current study aims to examine the link between globalization and financial advancements with the energy intensity of the top 5 ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) economies. The development structure of the ASEAN region is considered significant for having stable growth. The authors used the annual data from 1990 to 2018 for five of the largest ASEAN economies: Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. The present study used novel methodology, the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS), to examine the nonlinear behaviour among globalization, financial development, and energy intensity in the top 5 ASEAN countries. The study results using ANFIS confirm that globalization and financial development are positively correlated and have a significant impact on the energy intensity level in the top ASEAN countries. The results further suggest that globalization and financial development increase the level of energy intensity more in the countries that are developed relative to their peers in the top ASEAN countries. Moreover, the outcomes of ANFIS also suggest that those countries, which are more globalized and financially developed, have more potential to increase the level of energy intensity. Therefore, the government needs to focus more on projects that involve renewable energy and are environmentally friendly.

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by Piotr Białowolski, Andrzej Cwynar, Wiktor Cwynar, Dorota Węziak-Białowolska

Abstract:

The link between financial attitudes and consumer financial market behaviour is well documented. However, little is known about the role of financial knowledge and skills—the main components of the financial literacy construct—in shaping debt attitudes. This link is especially absent from the gender perspective. This study focuses on consumer debt literacy and debt attitudes. A representative sample of adult Poles (N = 1,004) was participated in a computer-assisted telephone interview. Latent class analysis was employed to reveal their debt attitudes, and subsequently, links between debt literacy and debt attitudes were studied with multinomial regression models. The results show that respondents in Poland can be grouped into five classes exhibiting different attitude profiles. The structure of debt attitudes is complex and differs from a simple unidimensional pro-debt/ anti-debt construct. Although this study did not find significant gender differences either in the conceptualization of debt attitudes or in their drivers, the results showed that in all but one class, consumer attitudes are strongly linked to either debt knowledge or debt skills or to both. Debt skills were revealed to be a particularly strong predictor of consumer debt attitudes.

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by Piotr Bialowolski, Andrzej Cwynar, Jing Jian Xiao, Dorota Weziak-Bialowolska

Abstract:

This study evaluated the link between financial literacy and household mortgage decisions. To this end, the longitudinal data set for the U.S. population from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) was used. Evidence for links between financial literacy levels and (1) mortgage uptake, (2) mortgage interest rates and (3) mortgage refinancing decisions were examined using the two waves (2015 and 2017) of PSID data, combined with the 2016 PSID supplementary questionnaire examining the measured financial literacy of household members. Our results revealed a positive link between financial literacy and mortgage possession and, additionally, between financial literacy and the subsequent decision to take out a mortgage. Moreover, higher financial literacy scores were associated with lower mortgage interests and a greater likelihood of mortgage refinancing. On average, a household that refinanced its mortgage was able to reduce its interest rate by almost 0.7 percentage points, providing evidence of the positive role of financial literacy in securing better mortgage terms.

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by Piotr W. Saługa ,Katarzyna Szczepańska-Woszczyna, Radosław Miśkiewicz, Mateusz Chłąd 

Abstract:

Our knowledge of discount rates plays an important role both in the discounted cash flow decision-making process and in the later phases of a project’s lifetime. It is useful than both for management and cash-flow monitoring purposes at operating stages. Investors putting money into power generation projects expect an appropriate rate of return to compensate them for a minimum acceptable real return available in the market (risk-free rate of interest) and the project’s specific risk. Due to its essential nature in the financial and economic evaluation of projects (it is the only parameter that reflects the risk), it is reasonable to assume that investors would also be interested in constituent components of that indicator. The discount rate is one parameter in the discounted cash flow analysis that takes into account the risk of a venture. Further, the previous research in this area has focused mainly on the dimension of this variable, and the structure of this parameter has not been dealt with any other studies. The proposed idea of this study met the expectations of the industry—it aimed to present a typical project implemented in the energy industry, a relatively simple methodology that allowed estimating the components within the cost of equity capital of the enterprise. In the power generation sector, one can find various types of discount rates—assessed for multiple technologies, at different development stages, and expressed differently. Owing to the know-how and decades-long experience, coal-fired power projects’ remarks may be a good benchmark for alternative low carbon technologies. That is why, in this work, a discount rate for valuing investment in new coal-fired power projects was evaluated. This assessment was made on the “bare-bones” assumption, meaning evaluations at 100% equity, after-tax, in constant (real) currency units. The analysis of the discount rate structure was performed by applying the procedure of the classical sensitivity analysis having the accuracy of key input parameters. Finally, the risk factors within the risk-adjusted discount rate were calculated. The obtained results showed the importance of individual risk factors within the risk-adjusted discount rate used in coal energy projects, which would enable a more pragmatic approach to controlling this parameter by decision-makers and understanding the risk.

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by Morshadul Hasan, József Popp, Judit Oláh

Abstract:

Big data is one of the most recent business and technical issues in the age of technology. Hundreds of millions of events occur every day. The financial field is deeply involved in the calculation of big data events. As a result, hundreds of millions of financial transactions occur in the financial world each day. Therefore, financial practitioners and analysts consider it an emerging issue of the data management and analytics of different financial products and services. Also, big data has significant impacts on financial products and services. Therefore, identifying the financial issues where big data has a significant influence is also an important issue to explore with the influences. Based on these concepts, the objective of this paper was to show the current landscape of finance dealing with big data, and also to show how big data influences different financial sectors, more specifically, its impact on financial markets, financial institutions, and the relationship with internet finance, financial management, internet credit service companies, fraud detection, risk analysis, financial application management, and so on. The connection between big data and financial-related components will be revealed in an exploratory literature review of secondary data sources. Since big data in the financial field is an extremely new concept, future research directions will be pointed out at the end of this study.

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by Jerzy Kochanowicz, Beata Topij-Stempińska

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by Katarzyna Grondys, Armenia Androniceanu, Zdzisława Dacko-Pikiewicz

Abstract:

One of the ways to sustain development is striving for energy efficiency. This is the purpose of directive 2012/27/EU on energy efficiency, which aims at explaining and promoting energy–saving and ecological solutions that allow increasing the output of consumed energy. Several years after implementation, it is possible to assess the directive’s usefulness and completeness in a few areas of the economy, in particular in the operation of enterprises, which substantially contribute to the global energy consumption. Therefore, the purpose of the study was defined as an assessment of the execution of the concept of energy efficiency in business operations in EU countries, in accordance with the assumptions of directive 2012/27/EU. The collected raw data were derived from surveys gathered in the process of public consultations of the European Commission regard directive 2012/27/EU on energy efficiency. Resulting observations were analysed using the basic methods of descriptive statistics, along with a factor analysis. A logistic regression model was applied to identify the dependencies between the provisions of the directive and the motivation of enterprises to manage energy. As a result of conducted analyses, conclusions were drawn up concerning the assessment of the content of the directive in regard to activities undertaken by EU enterprises to the favour of effective energy management. Obtained results suggest that there is a need to introduce changes in the provisions of the directive, preceded by consultations with the EU business environment. The analysed literature concerning this issue demonstrates that the effectiveness of energy management is taken into consideration from this angle for the first time in our studies

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by Usman Akbar, József Popp, Hameed Khan, Muhammad Asif Khan, Judit Oláh

Abstract: 

China’s huge investment in the “belt and road initiative” (BRI) may have helped improve the economic level of participating countries, but it may also be accompanied by a substantial increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The BRI corridors aim to bring regional stability and prosperity. In such efforts, energy efficiency due to increased transport has been overlooked in the recent literature. This paper employed a data envelopment analysis of the slack-based measurement (SBM) for bad output to assess the transport energy efficiency of 19 countries under the BRI economic corridors. By using the most cited transport-related input variables, such as vehicles, labor, motor oil, jet fuel, and natural gas, this study first analyzes the transport energy efficiency by first assuming the output variables individually and then takes two years as a pre- and post-BRI case by considering the aggregated output model. The results show an increase in economic activity but a decline in transport energy efficiency in terms of consumption and emissions.

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by Jere R. Behrman, Olivia S. Mitchell, Cindy K. Soo, David Bravo

Abstract:

This study isolates the causal effects of financial literacy and schooling on wealth accumulation using a new household dataset and an instrumental variables (IV) approach. Financial literacy and schooling attainment are both strongly positively associated with wealth outcomes in linear regression models, whereas the IV estimates reveal even more potent effects of financial literacy. They also indicate that the schooling effect only becomes positive when interacted with financial literacy. Estimated impacts are substantial enough to imply that investments in financial literacy could have large wealth payoffs.

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by Mohamed Mousa , Hiba K. Massoud , Rami M. Ayoubi 

Abstract: 

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether females have different perceptions of diversity management and workplace happiness compared to their male colleagues. Furthermore, the paper explores whether diversity management perceptions mediate the relationship between workplace happiness and organisational citizenship behaviour.
Design/methodology/approach
A total of 260 questionnaires from a number of public hospitals in Egypt were analysed using both t-test and Structural Equation Modelling.
Findings
We found that female physicians perceive diversity management policies/protocols more positively than their male colleagues. Moreover, gender has no or little effect on physicians’ perceptions of workplace happiness. We also found that workplace happiness positively affects physicians’ organisational citizenship behaviour, and finally, diversity management practices can mediate the relationship between workplace happiness and physicians’ organisational citizenship behaviour.
Practical implications
We believe that managers can raise the feeling of workplace happiness among their staff if they maintain some personal relationships with physicians, care about the physicians’ work/life balance, promote after work gatherings, initiate coffee time talks, encourage open communication practices and more.
Originality/value
The paper is based on the argument that although employees might be happy in the workplace through (engagement, job satisfaction, affective commitment), their happiness, however,will unlikely be reflected into a positive organisational citizenship behaviour towards their organisation, except (social exchange theory) they feel or perceive (equity theory) the overall practices of diversity management in that organisation positively. Thus, studying the mediating effect of perceptions towards diversity management is mainly our contribution.

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by Mohamed Mousa 

Abstract:

Purpose
This paper aims to investigate how workplace fun is experienced in two public Egyptian banks by addressing the employees working there.
Design/methodology/approach
To investigate workplace fun in the selected banks, the author employed virtual ethnographic field research by spending two weeks (virtually and full-time) inside each of the two selected public banks. Besides this virtual ethnographic experience, the author employed semi-structured interviews and focus groups with the bank employees. Moreover, the author digitally examined documents such as posters, cartoons, brochures and a WhatsApp group. A total of 188 respondents were contacted and involved in eight semi-structured interviews and 36 focus groups. All interviews and focus groups were conducted in Arabic, the mother tongue of all respondents. The author subsequently used thematic analysis to determine the main ideas in the transcripts.
Findings
The findings confirmed that workplace fun has not been carefully understood, developed and sustained in the selected public Egyptian banks. To the best of the author's knowledge, this study is the first of its kind in the context of a developing nation to focus on workplace fun, and subsequently, it is the first to address the banking sector in one of the leading developing nations in Africa and the Middle-East. Furthermore, based on the analysis of the focus groups and interviews the author created a model of four obstacles: work environment realities, managerial practices, bank-related behaviour and meaning-related obstacles. Managing those four obstacles secures a relevant foundation on which banks can develop and maintain a systematic implementation of workplace fun and humour.
Originality/value
This paper contributes by filling a gap in HR management, in which empirical studies on workplace fun have been limited so far.

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by Nestor Shpak, Oleh Kuzmin, Olga Melnyk, Mariana Ruda, Włodzimierz Sroka 

Abstract:

The current model of resource management mainly contributes to mass short-term consumption, which creates an unstable and extremely critical situation on the planet. Going beyond the traditional industrial model of Take-Make-Waste, the circular economy aims to reduce waste (and therefore minimize costs) and to redefine sustainable development. This entails a gradual separation of economic activity from the consumption of scarce resources and the removal of waste from the system. In order to foreground the principles of a circular economy in Ukraine, this study analyzes its benefits based on the relevant experience of the EU. The paper also presents the results of research and content analysis on the situation of waste management in Ukraine and compares the trends using key indicators. The core of the paper is developing a conceptual model of making and coordinating management decisions on the implementation of business projects in the context of a circular economy in Ukraine. A multifactor model (the Farrar–Glauber method was further developed) has been built by identification of the main factors, i.e., the volume of generated waste from economic activity per unit of GDP at constant prices, emissions of pollutants, and capital investments for the protection of the environment. Factor coefficients indicate how many units will change the resultant trait Y, measured in thousand tonnes, if one of them changes by 1 (each in units of measure). It means that if the volume of waste generated from economic activity per unit of GDP at constant 2011 purchasing power parity (PPP) prices decreases by 1 kg/$1000, waste management of I–IV classes will be reduced by 952,737 thousand tonnes. The approbated model can be used to analyze the situation with recycling in the EU countries, considering the amount of capital investment in environmental protection.

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by Piotr Bialowolski, Dorota Weziak-Bialowolska 

Abstract: 

The evidence for a correlation between life satisfaction and job satisfaction is strong; however, it is mostly based on cross-sectional results, which precludes establishing valid causal links between work and well-being. Limited longitudinal research suffers from relatively small sample sizes, narrow focus on a particular professional or national group, and differences in the lags between the waves of data examined. We address these issues by using three national, representative longitudinal studies with up to 30 years of repeated annual measurements of job satisfaction and life satisfaction. Using data from 216,573 individuals and applying panel vector autoregression models, we seek to establish whether, and to what extent, job satisfaction influences subsequent life satisfaction and life satisfaction has a concurrent impact on subsequent job satisfaction. Our findings corroborate that life satisfaction and job satisfaction are positively and reciprocally related, as in the spillover theory, and that life satisfaction influences job satisfaction more strongly than vice versa. The magnitude of the impact is found to be population-specific and time sensitive, with the highest effect in the subsequent year and with statistically significant effects lasting even up to 5 years. Gender, age, education, and household member status were found to differentiate the strength of the relationship.

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by Pandian R. Sudhakara, Robert Sałek , Dhanashri Venkat and Katarzyna Chudzik

Abstract:

Value Stream Mapping is an efficient and powerful tool of the Lean Manufacturing system that helps in eliminating Non-Value-Added activities (NVAs) in a process by clearly exposing the areas where there is waste in the Value stream (Information and material flow). Value Stream Mapping is a standardized way to document the steps
in a process and systematically analyze the steps to develop improvement plans. The “current state map” is a foundation for the improved “future state map” that is developed after eliminating the NVAs identified in the current state map and thereby decreasing the lead time. It can be implemented not only in manufacturing sectors but also in many different sectors such as IT sectors, Healthcare sectors and government service sectors to identify and eliminate the processes or operations that do not add any value to the product or in other words, the processes for which the customer is not willing to pay. The main objective of this work is to study the process flow
of a part family in a steel industry located in Southern part of India using value stream mapping and eliminate the NVAs in the process by making some process and layout changes which will reduce the lead time and increase the profit of the organization. First, suitable value stream mapping is carried out for parts with similar kinds of existing manufacturing processes. Then all the NVAs present in the flow of the process are identified. Then, certain changes, such as converting the manufacturing layout into a cellular manufacturing layout and introducing continuous heat treatment processes, are made in order to eliminate the NVAs. The total lead time reduction for each part varies from 14.55 hours to 33.41 hours which is a significant amount of reduction. This paper also reviews the existing literature on Value Stream Mapping and how its implementation helps organizations successfully eliminate the waste and take them towards becoming a successful Lean Enterprise.

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by Peter Holcsik, Judith Pálfi , Miklos Tompa, Janusz Grabara, Zsolt Čonka, Michal Kolcun, Mihai Avornicului and Karol Jędrasiak

Abstract:

One way of handling short-time short-circuits without causing equipment failure is the management of the reclose function integrated into smart switchboard which is described in this article. Due to the cost of the application, the optimal placement of such equipment must be well-planned. During the planning of the placement optimization of a low-voltage electricity network quality, the increase of the consumer supply security must be considered along with the best economic utilization. The research presented in this article aims to introduce a new special decision support methodology calculated with these variables. The management of smart switchboard (SSB) tool installation into low voltage (LV) network was investigated. The selection of the placement nodes is based on the complex investigation of the network characteristics. Investigation is performed by empiric analysis. This method can support the power companies to make the optimal decision. The presented new device can have outstanding importance for the electric industry and for further research as no testing results of such investigations have been published yet.

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by Karolina Mucha-Kuś

Abstract:

As a result of the gas market liberalization, new business models are emerging and one that brings positive effects to market players is purchasing group functioning. This paper adopts the approach of gas market review and provides a synthesis of its functioning in Poland. The review focuses first on the frameworks of the process of gas market liberalization. Next, the author presents gas market structure and lists and comments on its components. Then, the main characteristics of the market are discussed. The author presents a case study of the Metropolitan Gas Purchasing Group—the largest gas purchasing group in Poland with the volume reaching almost 225 GWh of purchased gas. As a result, the author highlights the effects of this coopetitive strategy which reached a value of PLN 3,000,000.

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by Lenka Veselovská, Ján Závadský, Zuzana Závadská

Abstract:

The main aim of this research is to develop an innovative Bribery Risk Index (BRI) to measure organization's level of bribery risk in accordance with the ISO 37001 to strengthen the corporate social responsibility and to verify it under the conditions of selected enterprises. The value of this paper is mainly in providing a possible tool to handle the problem of bribery that has not been successfully solved. The ISO 37001 provides general areas where bribery risks could originate in organization, but it does not provide a specific list of risk factors. It is up to companies to create such risk factors, and this paper provides a possible solution to this challenge by creating a complex list of bribery risk factors and incorporating them into one indicator—the BRI. As such, the proposed BRI is an original approach to assessing an organization's level of bribery risk. The results were achieved through four case studies. The first step was risk management application for bribery risk analysis according to ISO 37001. Findings were used to create a list of criteria with specific importance and consequently the creation of a BRI. The proposed index can also serve to compare organizations' levels of bribery risk regardless of their size and serve in bribery prevention because it identifies the areas in the enterprise where the risk of bribery can be significant and can affect the ability of the organization to perform its functions for its stakeholders.

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by Muhammad Haseeb, Sebastian Kot, Hafezali Iqbal Hussain, Leonardus WW Mihardjo, Piotr Saługa 

Abstract:

The objective of the current examination is to identify the dynamic relationship between the textile industry and energy intensity. The study evaluates the asymmetric impact of textile manufacturing on energy intensity in leading Asian economies based on textile dominance. China, Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Malaysia, South Korea, Thailand, Japan and Vietnam are dominant in textile manufacturing. In the present study we used yearly textiles and clothing data from top ten selected Asian textile manufacturing countries from 1990 to 2018. The results of quantile-on-quantile regression (QQ) confirmed that textiles and clothing (T&C) production have a positive and significant impact on energy intensity in all countries. The results further suggested that a low level of T&C production increases the level of energy intensity in all selected countries. On the other hand, the results of Granger causality in quantiles confirm a bidirectional causal relationship between T&C production and energy intensity in all selected countries except Thailand and Japan, where a uni-directional causal connection between textile and clothing manufacturing and energy intensity can also be found. This study recommends that governments and investors need to invest more in green and advanced technologies to reduce the energy intensity in Asian economies.

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by Arisanty D., Jędrasiak K., Rajiani I., Grabara J. 

Abstract:

Peatland fires occur every year in the South Kalimantan Province Indonesia, particularly affecting soil characteristics. The purposes of this study are to analyse the physical aspects of soil (colour and soil texture) caused by fires and to investigate the chemical characteristics of soil (pH, Fe2+, P2O5, and K2O). This study used measurements in the field based on a map of peatland fires in the region and laboratory results. There were 24 samples in this study; they were taken in October 2018, which was about a month after the fire, and in January 2019, which was about four months after the burning. The samples were analysed regarding the soil colour, texture, pH, Fe2+, P2O5, and K2O. The results of the study indicated that the characteristics of the soil on burned land in October 2018 had higher pH, P2O5, and K2O levels than in January 2019. Fires occurred in soil brought changes to the soil physical and chemical properties. The added combustion ash affected the physical and chemical properties of the land, such as soil colour, texture, pH, P2O5, K2O, and Fe2+.

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by Bartosz Jeżyna, Marcin Lis, Agata Mesjasz-Lech 

Abstract: 

The purpose of this article is to present the key differences between the Polish Guaranteed DSR (demand-side response) Scheme operating from 2017 to 2020 and the Polish Capacity Market DSR Scheme operating from 2021, and their impacts on the decision to participate in the DSR scheme. The present study attempts to compare the rules of the old and new schemes and their impacts on the participation decision depending on the industry of the potential scheme participant. The study was conducted on a group of 50 randomly selected companies. A structured interview was used to collect information, and a chi-quadrant independence test and a Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney test were used in the analysis of the collected data. The study was conducted in selected enterprises located in Poland. The results of the study indicate the elements that are similar to the literature on the subject, and key aspects arising from the unique characteristics of the Polish market and the industry of the potential participant. A detailed analysis of the collected data showed that the position of the respondent in the company and the size of the company do not affect the level of knowledge of the DSR market, or the decision concerning cooperation or the manner of reduction. All the respondents have higher opinions about the new Capacity Market DSR Scheme, which confirms the proper direction of the changes in relation to the ending Guaranteed DSR Scheme.

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by Haseeb M., Ślusarczyk B., Hussain H. I., Jermsittiparsert K., Sobczak P.

Abstract
The aim of this study is to explore the role of urbanization and economic growth in natural resources using a time series data from 1971 to 2018. The current study applied a novel methodology of nonlinear ARDL proposed by Shin et al. (2014). This methodology is ideal to answer the asymmetric effect on the independent variable
on the dependent variable. Furthermore, we also applied asymmetric Granger causality introduced by Hatemi-J (2012) to confirm the causal relationship between the variables. The results of NARDL affirmed that all the variables have a significant impact on natural resources rent. The findings confirm that negative shocks of urban intensity decrease the natural resources rents; however, the positive shocks increase the rents of natural resources. On the one hand, the positive and negative shocks of GDP increase the natural resources though, the magnitude of positive shocks are significantly different from the negative shocks. On the other hand, the results of asymmetric Granger causality confirm that positive and negative shock of urban intensity does granger cause positive shocks of natural resources. Whereas, positive shocks of natural resources (economic growth) have a causal connection with positive and negative shocks of economic growth (natural resources) in Indonesia.

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by Oleksandr Sabishchenko, Rafał Rębilas, Norbert Sczygiol, Mariusz Urbański

Abstract:

The Ukrainian energy sector is one of the most inflexible energy sectors in the world as a result of the almost complete depreciation of the equipment of the main sources of power supply: nuclear, thermal, and hydropower. In connection with existing problems, there is a need to develop and use new energy-saving technologies based on renewable energy sources. In this proposed research, a regression model of renewable energy growth in the energy sector of Ukraine was developed. The studied literature reveals that the independent use of individual functioning elements of renewable energy sources function as the primary power source that is not an optimal solution for stable energy supply. This study proposes the use of hybrid renewable energy systems, namely a combination of two or more renewable energy sources that will help each other to achieve higher energy efficiency, accelerate the growth of renewable energy in the share of the Ukrainian energy sector and/or improve functioning with battery energy storages. Moreover, the use of hybrid renewable energy systems in Ukraine will reduce the human impact on the environment, realize the potential of local renewable energy resources and also increase the share of electricity generation from renewable energy sources. Therefore, mechanisms for managing state regulation of stimulating the development of hybrid renewable energy systems have been developed.

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by Piotr W. Saługa, Paweł Grzesiak, Jacek Kamiński

Abstract:

Coal gasification has been promoted as a sophisticated clean energy technology alternative to coal burning these days. Aside from the usual technical difficulties, economic issues of such projects—especially valuation challenges—are important problems that practitioners usually struggle with. This is because of the major extent of managerial flexibility linked with specific characteristics of coal gasification projects, in particular, possibilities to mothball/restart manufacturing lines, or change between different outputs. The value of such flexibilities may be well assessed by real options valuations. The aim of this paper is to show that for the coal gasification technologies the real options valuation is more suitable than traditional discounted cash flow technique. This approach was applied to calculate an integrated plant that can produce either electricity or methanol. As the valuation approach the multiplicative stochastic process was used. As a consequence, binomial lattices of end-product (electricity and methanol) were developed. Then, in regard to them (reference instruments), two corresponding lattices of net cash flows (consecutive instruments) were created. In the end, two trees of switching option value were developed—one for electricity production as an initial mode, and the second for methanol production, delivering expanded net present (strategic) value.

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