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Article
Publication date: 21 February 2022

Anne Bowers, Joshua Wu, Stuart Lustig and Douglas Nemecek

Loneliness is known to adversely impact employee health, performance and affective commitment. This study involves a quantitative cross-sectional analysis of online survey data…

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Abstract

Purpose

Loneliness is known to adversely impact employee health, performance and affective commitment. This study involves a quantitative cross-sectional analysis of online survey data reported by adults employed in the United States (n = 5,927) to explore how loneliness and other related factors may influence avoidable absenteeism and turnover intention.

Design/methodology/approach

Worker loneliness was assessed using the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3). Composite variables were constructed as proxy measures of worker job and personal resources. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to examine independent variable effects on dependent outcomes of (a) work days missed in the last month due to stress (stress-related absenteeism) and (b) likelihood to quit within the next year (turnover intention).

Findings

The job resources of social companionship, work-life balance and satisfaction with communication had significant negative relationships to loneliness in the SEM, as did the personal resources of resilience and less perceived alienation. Results further show lonely workers have significantly greater stress-related absenteeism (p = 0.000) and higher turnover intention ratings (p = 0.000) compared to workers who are not lonely. Respondent demographics (age, race and gender) and other occupational characteristics also produced significant outcomes.

Practical implications

Study findings underscore the importance of proactively addressing loneliness among workers and facilitating job and personal resource development as an employee engagement and retention strategy.

Originality/value

Loneliness substantially contributes to worker job withdrawal and has negative implications for organizational effectiveness and costs.

Details

Journal of Organizational Effectiveness: People and Performance, vol. 9 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2051-6614

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Article
Publication date: 24 June 2020

Emmanuel Ferguson Aikins and Usha Ramanathan

The purpose of this paper is to empirically identify key factors of UK food supply chains (SCs) that significantly contribute to CO2 emissions (CO2e) taking into account the life…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically identify key factors of UK food supply chains (SCs) that significantly contribute to CO2 emissions (CO2e) taking into account the life cycle assessment (LCA). The UK food supply chain includes imports from other countries.

Design/methodology/approach

This research develops a conceptual framework from extant literature. Secondary data obtained from ONS and FAOSTAT covering from 1990 to 2014 are analysed using Multilinear Regression (MLR) and Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA) to identify the factors relating to CO2 emissions significance, and the efficient contributions that are being made to their reduction in the UK food supply chains.

Findings

The study results suggest that Transportation and Sales/Distribution are the two key factors of CO2 emissions in UK food supply chains. This is confirmed by two multivariate methods, MLR and SFA. MLR results show that transportation increases UK CO2 emissions by 10 tonnes of CO2 emissions from one tonne of fruits and vegetables imports from overseas to the UK Sales and Distribution reduces the UK CO2 emissions by 1.3 tonnes of CO2 emissions due to improved, technological operation activities in the UK. In addition, the SFA results confirm that the key factors are sufficient to predict an increase or decrease in CO2 emissions in the UK food supply chains.

Research limitations/implications

This study has focused on the LCA of the UK food supply chain from limited data. Future studies should consider Sustainability Impact Assessment of the UK food supply chain, identifying the social, economic, regulatory and environmental impacts of the food supply chain using a re-defined LCA (all-inclusive assessment) tool.

Practical implications

This research suggests that food supply chain professionals should improve efficiency, e.g. the use of solar energy and biogas, and also integrate low-carbon policies and practices in food supply chain operations. Furthermore, governments should encourage policies such as mobility management programmes, urban redevelopment and privatisation to enhance better transportation systems and infrastructure to continuously reduce CO2e from the food trade.

Originality/value

Although logistics play a major role in CO2 emissions, all logistics CO2 emissions for other countries are not included in the ONS data. This research reveals some important insights into the UK food supply chains. Logistics and other food supply chain processes of importing countries significantly contribute to CO2 emissions which are yet to be considered in the UK food SCs.

Details

International Journal of Operations & Production Management, vol. 40 no. 7/8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-3577

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Article
Publication date: 19 February 2024

Jiao Chen, Dingqiang Sun, Funing Zhong, Yanjun Ren and Lei Li

Studies on developed economies showed that imposing taxes on animal-based foods could effectively reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions (AGHGEs), while this taxation may…

171

Abstract

Purpose

Studies on developed economies showed that imposing taxes on animal-based foods could effectively reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions (AGHGEs), while this taxation may not be appropriate in developing countries due to the complex nutritional status across income classes. Hence, this study aims to explore optimal tax rate levels considering both emission reduction and nutrient intake, and examine the heterogenous effects of taxation across various income classes in urban and rural China.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors estimated the Quadratic Almost Ideal Demand System model to calculate the price elasticities for eight food groups, and performed three simulations to explore the relative optimal tax regions via the relationships between effective animal protein intake loss and AGHGE reduction by taxes.

Findings

The results showed that the optimal tax rate bands can be found, depending on the reference levels of animal protein intake. Designing taxes on beef, mutton and pork could be a preliminary option for reducing AGHGEs in China, but subsidy policy should be designed for low-income populations at the same time. Generally, urban residents have more potential to reduce AGHGEs than rural residents, and higher income classes reduce more AGHGEs than lower income classes.

Originality/value

This study fills the gap in the literature by developing the methods to design taxes on animal-based foods from the perspectives of both nutrient intake and emission reduction. This methodology can also be applied to analyze food taxes and GHGE issues in other developing countries.

Details

China Agricultural Economic Review, vol. 16 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1756-137X

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Article
Publication date: 13 September 2024

Roberto Leonardo Rana, Christian Bux and Mariarosaria Lombardi

The objective of the research is to evaluate the carbon footprint of the green asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) supply chain, encompassing the agricultural production to the…

81

Abstract

Purpose

The objective of the research is to evaluate the carbon footprint of the green asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) supply chain, encompassing the agricultural production to the packaging stage in Italy, as it is the sixth largest producer and the second largest in Europe. It provides an assessment in the province of Foggia and highlights the global perspective of the carbon footprint application in agro-food systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The carbon footprint (ISO 14067:2018) considers 1 t of packaged fresh asparagus as a functional unit in the agricultural production and packaging stage and is based on primary data collected in one of the leading companies of asparagus production in the province of Foggia, which markets about 0.21 kt of asparagus per year produced in about 31 ha. Data were integrated with face-to-face in-depth interviews and pre-filled checklists.

Findings

Findings show that the carbon footprint of 1 t of packaged fresh asparagus is equivalent to 335.31 kgCO2eq, of which 61% in the agricultural stage and 39% in the packaging one. The majority of the emissions are associated with the fertigation and the diesel consumption for the transportation of workers. Farmers should adopt green electricity so as to reduce the emissions associated with the electric pump for the extraction of water from artesian wells. Moreover, it would be desirable to replace mineral urea phosphate with organic fertilizers.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, scholars have not yet investigated the environmental impacts of the green asparagus supply chain, even if it represents one of the most cultivated vegetables worldwide, with a global production that amounts to 8.5 Mt per year.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 126 no. 11
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

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Article
Publication date: 25 November 2024

Panagiota Varela

Sustainable development has become increasingly urgent due to significant environmental and social challenges, and sustainable food consumption has emerged as a critical component…

53

Abstract

Purpose

Sustainable development has become increasingly urgent due to significant environmental and social challenges, and sustainable food consumption has emerged as a critical component of this development. This study examined Greek consumers’ sustainability preferences and explores consumer segments related to demographics and food choices.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey of 285 consumers from Attica, Greece, reported on a wide range of factors: environmental and health-related attributes, food waste, food miles, fair trade and sustainability perceptions.

Findings

Five factors affecting food sustainability preferences were identified: environmental attributes, unhealthy preferences, organic qualities, local and seasonal attributes, and sustainability attitudes. Based on these factors, three consumer segments were discovered. Ecocentrics displayed strong attitudes towards sustainability; conformists exhibited a higher preference for conventional, Western-type diets; and convenientarians showed a preference for quick and affordable meals with limited concern for sustainability. Demographics (gender and age) and food consumption were associated with food sustainability preferences. Despite the financial constraints faced by most Greek consumers, food preferences and consumption patterns were consistent with sustainability principles, which may be explained by the long-standing tradition of the Mediterranean diet.

Research limitations/implications

This study is not without limitations. The cross-sectional design prevents establishing causal relationships between demographic factors and sustainability preferences. Future research should explore longitudinal studies to assess how consumer preferences and sustainability behaviours evolve over time, particularly in response to environmental and economic changes. This would provide deeper insights into the durability and evolution of sustainability preferences. The sample used in this study was drawn from the Attica region, which is largely urban. Therefore, the findings may not be generalisable to other parts of Greece, especially rural areas where sustainability practices and food choices might differ. Future research should include more diverse geographic samples to better understand regional variations in consumer behaviour, particularly in rural settings.

Practical implications

These findings strongly suggest the necessity of raising awareness regarding sustainable fast-prep meals, meat-substitute products and plant-based options that are local and organic.

Social implications

Furthermore, the recognition of gender and age as significant determinants of sustainable food behaviours challenges traditional assumptions and stereotypes about consumer behaviour, highlighting the need for a more inclusive and diverse approach to sustainability, that takes into account the varying perspectives and experiences of different demographic groups. This alignment between demographic characteristics and sustainable food behaviours underscores the need for targeted interventions and strategies to promote sustainability across diverse demographic groups. Ecocentrics have higher rates of marriage and parenthood, indicating that family dynamics might encourage more sustainable food choices.

Originality/value

The contribution of this study is twofold: (1) it provides data on consumer perceptions in an economically challenged Mediterranean country and (2) it offers new evidence on the actual size of sustainable/non-sustainable consumer segments in Greece. Understanding these consumer behaviours is crucial for developing targeted strategies that support sustainable practices and address the specific needs of low-income Mediterranean countries. By investigating these dynamics, this study provides valuable insights into the broader Mediterranean region, offering a framework for policymakers and businesses to address the evolving preferences and constraints of these consumers.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 127 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

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Article
Publication date: 6 November 2020

Rachel Lopes Morrison and Philip Stahlmann-Brown

to evaluate the experiences of knowledge workers who work in shared workspaces and those who moved from single-cell offices to shared workspaces.

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Abstract

Purpose

to evaluate the experiences of knowledge workers who work in shared workspaces and those who moved from single-cell offices to shared workspaces.

Design/methodology/approach

Knowledge workers were surveyed before and after 34% moved from single-cell offices to shared workspaces. The authors exploit this panel design in the analysis.

Findings

Shared offices were rated as providing more distraction, less privacy and worsened indoor environment quality (IEQ) (p < 0.05). Perceptions of collaboration and networking also declined in shared workspaces. Distraction and a lack of privacy were negatively associated with self-reported productivity (p < 0.10). Neither IEQ nor collaboration nor networking was significantly associated with productivity. The perceptions of those who moved to shared workspaces and those who had worked in shared workspaces all along were statistically indistinguishable.

Research limitations/implications

The quasi-experimental control provides evidence that it is the office type, not the experience of moving, that accounts for the evaluative changes. There are limitations inherent in using a self-rating performance measure.

Practical implications

Organisations should be aware that the positive outcomes ascribed to shared spaces may not be apparent and that demands may outweigh benefits.

Originality/value

Knowledge workers are particularly impacted by distraction and interruptions to concentrated work. The quasi-experimental design controlled for the Hawthorne effect, demonstrating that it is the office type, not the move, that accounts for differences in perceptions.

Details

Journal of Managerial Psychology, vol. 36 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0268-3946

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Article
Publication date: 11 June 2018

Joko Mariyono, Apri Kuntariningsih, Enny Suswati and Tom Kompas

The purpose of this paper is to measure the environmental performance of intensive farming and estimate agrochemical waste in physical and monetary terms. The intensive farming…

632

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure the environmental performance of intensive farming and estimate agrochemical waste in physical and monetary terms. The intensive farming provides adverse impacts including health and environmental quality associated with the use of agrochemicals.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a theory of environmental efficiency that measures how efficient the farm uses agrochemical inputs. The efficiency was estimated using a set of farm-level data of intensive farming that use agrochemicals. Data were compiled from a survey of randomly selected 240 farmers who operated intensive farming in three regions of Java in 2014.

Findings

The results show that the performance of intensive farming was low. This condition caused agrochemical waste leading to the externality. Taking the external costs into account resulted in the improvement in efficiency of agrochemicals. The actual level of agrochemicals was about a hundred times higher than the most efficient level.

Research limitations/implications

This study is beyond the exogenous external costs. There is a need for a further comprehensive study to include more exogenous external costs associated with agrochemicals to have the potential value of such costs and the most socially efficient use of agrochemicals. The long-term effects of external cost to the environment and socio-economic livelihood of the farmers and other communities are considerable. Advocating for alternatives to decrease the use of detrimental agro-inputs, in the long run, will provide sound quality of the environment. Socially, both producers and consumers get the environmental and health benefits.

Practical implications

To reduce the agrochemical waste that caused environmental problems, a policy should be formulated to make farming more efficient, particularly for agrochemical use. It can be done by introducing agronomic technologies and enhancing farmers’ knowledge on environmentally friendly agriculture.

Originality/value

Environmental efficiency is able to estimate the quantity of agrochemical waste. The waste is a kind of non-point source pollution whose source and quantity are very difficult to identify and measure. As there are many definitions and measurement of environmental performance, this concept of environmental efficiency can be one of the alternatives.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 29 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

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Article
Publication date: 17 April 2024

Suruchi Singh and Shubhomoy Banerjee

This study employs the Social Identity Theory to examine the differential effects of personal and social dimensions of fear of missing out (FOMO) on sustainable food consumption…

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Abstract

Purpose

This study employs the Social Identity Theory to examine the differential effects of personal and social dimensions of fear of missing out (FOMO) on sustainable food consumption (SFC) practices.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey-based empirical study was conducted with 395 respondents. The data were analysed using structural equation modelling and Hayes process Macro in SPSS.

Findings

SFC was found to be positively influenced by personal FOMO. Contrary to expectations, social FOMO had a negative correlation with SFC. Social influence and social identity were shown to be positively correlated, whilst the social influence-SFC relationship was favourable. This approach was aided by social identity.

Research limitations/implications

The study supports personal FOMO as an SFC-influencing factor. It evaluates the differential effects of FOMO’s personal and social dimensions on SFC. It also demonstrates that social FOMO negatively affects SFC, contrary to expectations.

Practical implications

The study advises sustainable food firms to reduce personal FOMO via advertising and messaging.

Originality/value

This research is amongst the first to segregate the differential effects of social and personal FOMO regarding SFC behaviour. Research has examined FOMO as a higher-order construct involving social and personal aspects. Second, FOMO is often associated with negative behaviours including social media addiction and substance abuse. This FOMO-related research analyses a desired behaviour.

Details

Asia Pacific Journal of Marketing and Logistics, vol. 36 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-5855

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Article
Publication date: 11 October 2019

Joko Mariyono

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the implications of and assess the economic and sustainable impact of environmentally friendly technological packages introduced into…

878

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the implications of and assess the economic and sustainable impact of environmentally friendly technological packages introduced into agribusiness players in the centre of chilli-producing regions of Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a theory of optimisation in production as a fundamental analysis. Producers are assumed to maximise profit by allocating rational amounts of inputs as the components of technological packages. A combination of qualitative and quantitative methods was used. The rate of technology adoption was evaluated, and agribusiness performance was measured using an economic advantage and technical efficiency. Data were compiled using group discussions and individual surveys.

Findings

The packages of technologies improved economic and sustainability performance of agribusiness resulting from efficient use of agrochemicals and water resource, and increase the production. Socio-economic and technical factors influenced performance farmers, as agribusiness players responded positively towards the ecological technology packages.

Research limitations/implications

The sustainability of agribusiness was indicated by the reduction in agrochemical use and by the efficient use of water irrigation. There are other measures of sustainability, which are beyond this study. Additional studies are expected to fill the gap.

Practical implications

Considerable potential exists for broad adoption of these technological packages in Indonesia if they are disseminated effectively and in a close partnership with local extension agencies, farmers’ organisations, local non-governmental organisations and private sectors.

Originality/value

This study provides a realistic representation of a current condition because this is an empirical study conducted at the grass-root level. Sustainability of agribusiness practices was achieved with ecological technological packages.

Details

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. 69 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0401

Keywords

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