Indrė Lapinskaitė, Viktorija Stasytytė and Viktorija Skvarciany
The concept of a smart city, which is relatively new, is analysed from different aspects, including sustainability. Due to rapid urban development, smart city and sustainable city…
Abstract
Purpose
The concept of a smart city, which is relatively new, is analysed from different aspects, including sustainability. Due to rapid urban development, smart city and sustainable city synergy has become an approach supported by the authorities. Hence, the paper aims at assessing and ranking the European Union (EU) capitals in the context of the smart sustainable city (SSC).
Design/methodology/approach
The paper assesses and ranks 19 EU capitals according to 41 indicators. The assessment was done in four steps. First, each target SSC indicator was accessed for each city. Second, the scattering results of each city in the list of indicators were noted. Third, the indicators were ranked using the VIsekriterijumska optimisacija i KOmpromisno Resenje (VIKOR) method. And fourth, both scattering and ranking results were compared.
Findings
The comparison of the scattering and ranking results revealed that almost the same cities share the top ten positions. Although two cities fell out of the top ten, the overall results reinforce the reliability of the research results. Amsterdam ranked as the Number 1 SSC, and Helsinki took the second position.
Originality/value
A comparison of a wide range of indicators highlights the current situation and the disparities between EU capitals. The results could help local and national authorities and policymakers increase the sustainability and smartness of cities.
Details
Keywords
Viktorija Skvarciany and Daiva Jurevičienė
Purpose: Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors indeed play a vital role in sustainability efforts across various sectors and industries. ESG factors are often…
Abstract
Purpose: Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors indeed play a vital role in sustainability efforts across various sectors and industries. ESG factors are often aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which provide a framework for addressing global challenges related to poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, and more. Countries that prioritise ESG considerations in their operations and decision-making processes contribute to achieving the SDGs, thus advancing sustainability. The study explores the interplay between ESG practices and overall sustainability outcomes. This involves examining how ESG considerations influence environmental conservation, social equity, and economic resilience and how these factors collectively contribute to sustainability goals.
Methodology: Data envelopment analysis (DEA), which is performed in order to find out the most efficient countries, which will provide valuable insights into the complex relationship between ESG factors and sustainability, informing decision-making and driving positive change towards a more sustainable future.
Findings: ESG practices transform to sustainable development efficiently in half of the EU countries; however, the efficient countries differ depending on the model. Demonstrating the efficient transformation strengthens the country’s case for sustainability. Countries that embrace ESG practices not only contribute to environmental and social well-being but also enhance their competitiveness and long-term value-creation potential.
Implications: Policymakers can use the findings to advocate for policies and regulations that promote ESG integration and sustainable development. This may include measures to incentivise responsible business practices, enhance corporate transparency and disclosure, support sustainable finance initiatives, and strengthen regulatory frameworks to address emerging ESG risks.