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Digital Economy and Sustainable Development

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainable Management".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2024 | Viewed by 26766

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Weixin Yang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Business School, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
Interests: digital economy and finance; sustainable development
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Yunpeng Yang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Antai College of Economics and Management, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
Interests: digital industrialization; internet platform research; game theory
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The digital economy has become a key driver of the way we work, conduct business, perform international trade and engage with our world as individuals and communities in the 21st century. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this trend and underscored the importance of digital technologies and the digital economy for economic growth and sustainable development. However, the digital economy also entails significant challenges, such as digital divide, inequality, environmental impact, cyber security, consumer protection and governance. Therefore, it is essential to explore how the digital economy can contribute to green economy, sustainable development, inclusive growth and social justice in different contexts and regions. Moreover, it is also important to examine how digital technologies can transform markets and economic opportunities, as well as enable innovation and collaboration for sustainable development. For instance, artificial intelligence, big data analysis, the Internet of Things and blockchain are some of the technologies that can help optimize the use of resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote circular economy, enhance financial inclusion and foster social welfare.

The aim of this Special Issue is to provide a platform for academics, policymakers and practitioners to exchange new ideas, insights and evidence on the opportunities and challenges of sustainable development in the context of the digital economy. The Special Issue welcomes theoretical, empirical and policy-oriented contributions that address various aspects of the digital economy and its implications for sustainable development. The Special Issue also seeks to foster interdisciplinary and cross-regional dialogue and collaboration among researchers and stakeholders in this field in order to address concerns about the potential risks of digital technologies for sustainability, such as mental health and wellness, data privacy, skills for the future and diversity and inclusion. Therefore, it is important to balance the benefits and drawbacks of digital technologies and develop effective strategies for building sustainability in the digital era. This Special Issue invites submissions that explore both the positive and negative aspects of digital technologies for sustainable development, as well as propose solutions for mitigating the challenges and maximizing the opportunities.

The Special Issue invites submissions on a wide range of topics related to sustainable development in the context of the digital economy, including but not limited to:

- Digital economy, internet economy, digital trade, e-commerce, platform economy, digital transformation and their impact on sustainable development goals;

- Digital finance, fintech, blockchain, cryptocurrency and their role in promoting financial inclusion and green finance;

- Big data analysis, artificial intelligence, machine learning, internet of things and their applications and challenges for sustainable development;

- Digital governance, regulation, ethics, privacy, security and trust in the digital economy;

- Digital inclusion, access, affordability and empowerment of marginalized groups in the digital economy;

- Digital economy and social welfare;

- Digital economy and cultural diversity.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Weixin Yang
Dr. Yunpeng Yang
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • digital economy
  • sustainable development
  • digital technologies
  • artificial intelligence
  • digital divide
  • digital inclusion
  • digital transformation

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Published Papers (15 papers)

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Research

21 pages, 775 KiB  
Article
Influence of Digital Economy on Urban Energy Efficiency in China
by Haoyuan Ma, Zhijiang Li, Rui Dong and Decai Tang
Sustainability 2024, 16(22), 10088; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162210088 - 19 Nov 2024
Viewed by 343
Abstract
The digital economy (DE) is characterized by invention, low energy consumption, cross-sector integration, and open sharing. It can effectively enhance social production methods, influence consumer behavior, and provide new pathways to enhance total factor energy efficiency (TFEE). This paper studies 280 Chinese cities, [...] Read more.
The digital economy (DE) is characterized by invention, low energy consumption, cross-sector integration, and open sharing. It can effectively enhance social production methods, influence consumer behavior, and provide new pathways to enhance total factor energy efficiency (TFEE). This paper studies 280 Chinese cities, employing the entropy method and data envelopment analysis (DEA) model to evaluate and analyze urban DE and TFEE. It also constructs a system generalized method of moments model (SGMM model) and a threshold regression model (TR model) to examine the impact of the DE on TFEE in China. The main study findings include the following: (1) The regression results of the SGMM model indicate that the effect of DE on TFEE in Chinese cities shows a U-shaped trend. (2) The regression results of the TR model further confirm a U-shaped association connecting DE and TFEE, with the threshold estimated at 0.304. (3) The economic factors and industrial structure have a major impact on inhibiting the improvement of TFEE, whereas technological advancements and environmental regulations significantly facilitate its improvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
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21 pages, 2225 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Digitization on Economic Sustainable Growth in Shandong Province of China
by Ran Xu, Yeong-Gil Kim and Chenglei Liang
Sustainability 2024, 16(16), 6798; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16166798 - 8 Aug 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1048
Abstract
In recent years, the digital economy has emerged as a widely debated economic topic, with China experiencing rapid development in this sector. As a pioneering region and microcosm of China’s economy, studying the impact of Shandong’s digitization level on economic development holds significant [...] Read more.
In recent years, the digital economy has emerged as a widely debated economic topic, with China experiencing rapid development in this sector. As a pioneering region and microcosm of China’s economy, studying the impact of Shandong’s digitization level on economic development holds significant academic and practical importance. Based on the annual panel data for the 17 cities of Shandong Province from 2001 to 2019, a digitization index (DI) is generated through the entropy weight method (EWM). Then, the effects of DI on GDP and total factor productivity (TFP) are empirically analyzed through various regression models, including fixed effect and spatial regression techniques. Results indicate that: (1) DI has a direct effect on TFP and an indirect effect on GDP; (2) regional differences are significant but minimal, with most concentrated effects being relatively large in recent periods; (3) negative spatial spillovers in both GDP and TFP are caused by negative spillovers in DI. It is recommended that local governments carefully consider the negative spillover effects of digital development when formulating digitization policies. While concentrating resources on advancing digitization in high-priority cities, equal emphasis should be placed on promoting the dissemination of digital products and services to surrounding areas. This approach is crucial for mitigating the risk of regional economic disparities caused by the potential siphoning effect of digital development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
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19 pages, 294 KiB  
Article
Exploring Digital Transformation Intensity and Its Relationship with Sustainability: Greek Managers’ Perspectives
by Antonios Kargas, Eleni C. Gkika and Anastasios Sepetis
Sustainability 2024, 16(14), 6077; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16146077 - 16 Jul 2024
Viewed by 833
Abstract
The digital transformation process gained significant research interest in recent years especially related to achievements in sustainability goals. Even though there exists growing research regarding various aspects of digital transformation and sustainability procedures, a more detailed analysis is needed in different national environments. [...] Read more.
The digital transformation process gained significant research interest in recent years especially related to achievements in sustainability goals. Even though there exists growing research regarding various aspects of digital transformation and sustainability procedures, a more detailed analysis is needed in different national environments. The proposed study empirically analyzes the Greek managers’ perspective on the relationship between digital transformation intensity and sustainability practices implemented. Almost 156 Greek senior managers from various organizational sectors were interviewed, while a synthetic index already developed from previous studies was used. Results indicate that Greek companies do not fully exploit digital technologies to further develop their environmental practices. A digital transformation strategy contributes effectively to environmental strategies in the case of reducing emissions of waste and avoiding environmental accidents, while in the rest of the cases, emerging technologies play a less important role and not as a part of a holistic digital strategy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
26 pages, 2656 KiB  
Article
Digital Marketing Strategies and Profitability in the Agri-Food Industry: Resource Efficiency and Value Chains
by Nikos Kanellos, Panagiotis Karountzos, Nikolaos T. Giannakopoulos, Marina C. Terzi and Damianos P. Sakas
Sustainability 2024, 16(14), 5889; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16145889 - 10 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3022
Abstract
Agriculture is essential to any country’s economy. Agriculture is crucial not only for feeding a country’s population but also for its impact on other businesses. The paradox of agri-food companies generating substantial profits despite seemingly high product prices is explored in this article, [...] Read more.
Agriculture is essential to any country’s economy. Agriculture is crucial not only for feeding a country’s population but also for its impact on other businesses. The paradox of agri-food companies generating substantial profits despite seemingly high product prices is explored in this article, focusing on the role of digital marketing within the agri-food industry. Enhanced digital marketing performance leads to efficient advertising campaigns, through reduced advertising costs and increased resource efficiency. To do so, the authors collected web analytical data from five established agri-food firms with the highest market capitalization. Then, linear regression and correlation analyses were used, followed by the utilization of fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM) modeling. The analysis revealed that increased traffic through search sources is associated with reduced advertising costs. Additionally, enhanced website engagement contributes to lower advertising expenses, emphasizing the optimization of the user experience. However, it has been discovered that allocating funds for social media advertising eventually results in higher expenses with higher website-abandoning rate. Ultimately, successful management of the balance between product costs and profitability in the agri-food sector lies on the increased use of search sources and greatly reducing the use of social media sources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
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28 pages, 3172 KiB  
Article
The Economic Dynamics of Desktop and Mobile Customer Analytics in Advancing Digital Branding Strategies: Insights from the Agri-Food Industry
by Nikos Kanellos, Marina C. Terzi, Nikolaos T. Giannakopoulos, Panagiotis Karountzos and Damianos P. Sakas
Sustainability 2024, 16(14), 5845; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16145845 - 9 Jul 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1168
Abstract
In the agri-food industry, strategic digital branding and digital marketing are essential for maintaining competitiveness. This study examines the economic dynamics and impact of desktop and mobile customer analytics on digital branding strategies within the sector. Through a comprehensive literature review, this research [...] Read more.
In the agri-food industry, strategic digital branding and digital marketing are essential for maintaining competitiveness. This study examines the economic dynamics and impact of desktop and mobile customer analytics on digital branding strategies within the sector. Through a comprehensive literature review, this research utilizes empirical evidence to validate hypotheses regarding the influence of desktop and mobile analytics metrics on key digital branding metrics and value creation. This study explores various branding indicators by utilizing descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, regression models, and fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM). The findings reveal significant correlations between desktop and mobile analytics and digital branding outcomes, underscoring the critical role of digital analytics and Decision Support Systems (DSSs) in shaping modern branding strategies in the agri-food industry. This study highlights the economic implications of desktop and mobile customer analytics on digital branding, providing insights to enhance market performance and foster sustainable growth in the agri-food sector. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
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20 pages, 258 KiB  
Article
Digital Transformation and Non-Financial Performance in Manufacturing
by Chenyu Dai and Jianwen Fang
Sustainability 2024, 16(12), 5099; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16125099 - 15 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1325
Abstract
In the context of the digital economy era, can digital transformation promote the improvement of non-financial performance of manufacturing enterprises? Taking Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed manufacturing firms from 2012 to 2021 as instances, this paper decomposes non-financial performance from five dimensions: innovation [...] Read more.
In the context of the digital economy era, can digital transformation promote the improvement of non-financial performance of manufacturing enterprises? Taking Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed manufacturing firms from 2012 to 2021 as instances, this paper decomposes non-financial performance from five dimensions: innovation performance, ESG performance, working capital management performance, organizational resilience, and corporate market competitiveness, and examines the effects and mechanisms of the digital revolution on manufacturing companies’ non-financial performance via empirical analysis. The findings are as follows: (1) digital transformation of manufacturing enterprises plays a significant positive role in innovation performance, ESG performance, working capital management performance, organizational resilience, and corporate market competitiveness, and (2) digital transformation can promote the improvement of non-financial performance of manufacturing enterprises by improving the quality of internal control. In addition, the heterogeneity analysis results show that digital transformation contributes more to the non-financial performance of non-state-owned manufacturing enterprises. The study conclusion can provide experience for promoting the sustainable development of manufacturing enterprises and driving high-quality economic development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
20 pages, 1232 KiB  
Article
Can the Digital Economy Outperform the Oil Economy in Terms of Achieving Human Development?
by Nashwa Mostafa Ali Mohamed, Kamilia Abd-Elhaleem Ahmed Frega and Jawaher Binsuwadan
Sustainability 2024, 16(12), 5028; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16125028 - 13 Jun 2024
Viewed by 912
Abstract
The digital economy is reshaping the global economic landscape, with advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and virtual reality revolutionizing industries and transforming how people work and live. While the digital economy has promise in terms of improving human capital development, for example, through [...] Read more.
The digital economy is reshaping the global economic landscape, with advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and virtual reality revolutionizing industries and transforming how people work and live. While the digital economy has promise in terms of improving human capital development, for example, through increased access to education and healthcare services, it also presents challenges, such as job displacement and income inequality. This study aims to evaluate the impact of the digital economy on human development indicators in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, seeking to understand how it influences education, health, and income levels. This paper provides valuable insights for policymakers seeking to enhance the Kingdom’s position in the global human development race by examining the relationship between the digital economy and human development using econometric models. This paper analyzes data from the World Bank and the United Nations Development Program to measure the impact of the digital economy on sustainable human development indicators. The findings show that while the digital economy has negligible or negative influence on other human development indicators, it has a limited beneficial impact on education in the long run. In addition, attaining sustainable human development—which is consistent with Vision 2030—requires expanding the economy beyond the oil sector and fostering scientific and technological progress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
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25 pages, 3157 KiB  
Article
The Digital Economy and Agricultural Modernization in China: Measurement, Mechanisms, and Implications
by Jie Guo and Jiahui Lyu
Sustainability 2024, 16(12), 4949; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16124949 - 9 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1795
Abstract
Promoting the progression of agricultural modernization and digital economy integration has introduced new opportunities and challenges for the advancement of China’s agriculture towards high-quality development. Based on panel data from 31 provinces in China from 2011 to 2020, we use the entropy method, [...] Read more.
Promoting the progression of agricultural modernization and digital economy integration has introduced new opportunities and challenges for the advancement of China’s agriculture towards high-quality development. Based on panel data from 31 provinces in China from 2011 to 2020, we use the entropy method, coupling coordination model, spatial auto-correlation model, and obstacle model to explore the degree of coupling coordination and influencing factors of China’s digital economy and agricultural modernization. The results show the following. (1) China’s digital economy and agricultural modernization are underdeveloped on the whole, but they show a positive upward trajectory. The digital economy is outpacing the development of agricultural modernization, but the gap between the two is gradually narrowing. (2) The degree of coupling coordination between China’s digital economy and agricultural modernization shows an upward trend. Additionally, there is regional heterogeneity and uneven development of the coupling coordination, i.e., it is high in the eastern region and low in the western region, accompanied by strong spatial agglomeration and correlation. (3) The main obstacle to the progression of the digital economy is digital infrastructure, while the main obstacle to the progression of agricultural modernization is agricultural production capacity. Based on China’s national conditions, we should fully promote the role of the digital economy, explore plans and strategies for promoting the digital economy in differentiated areas, mitigate any imbalanced development, promote the coordinated development of the digital economy and agricultural modernization, and provide decision-making references for the implementation of a digitized China, as well as rural revitalization strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
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21 pages, 798 KiB  
Article
Digital Transformation and Urban Green Development: Evidence from China’s Data Factor Marketization
by Honghe Li, Xiaotian Du, Xiang-Wu Yan and Ning Xu
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4511; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114511 - 26 May 2024
Viewed by 1950
Abstract
Data are the core element of digital transformation. Data factor marketization (DFM) is critical in the process of digital transformation, which promotes urban green development. This paper analyzes the role of digitization in urban environmental sustainability. We investigate the effects of DFM on [...] Read more.
Data are the core element of digital transformation. Data factor marketization (DFM) is critical in the process of digital transformation, which promotes urban green development. This paper analyzes the role of digitization in urban environmental sustainability. We investigate the effects of DFM on environmental pollution (EP) using a difference-in-differences approach and data from 283 cities in China from 2006 to 2019. The findings reveal that cities implementing DFM demonstrate an average reduction in EP of 2.67%. The mechanism behind DFM lowering EP involves fostering green innovation, increasing public awareness of environmental issues, attracting IT professionals, optimizing the industrial structure, and enhancing digital finance capabilities. Large cities, cities in the south, and those not primarily dependent on natural resources exhibit a more pronounced reduction in EP through DFM. Implementing policies related to digital infrastructure and enhancing the protection of urban intellectual property rights further amplifies the effect of DFM in reducing pollution. Additionally, this effect exhibits spatial spillover effects. This study contributes to the existing literature by (1) demonstrating DFM’s role in improving urban environmental quality in China through digital technology and market mechanisms, thereby aligning economic growth with ecological sustainability; (2) emphasizing the importance of public engagement in environmental stewardship through increased awareness and community participation in policymaking, as well as fostering social inclusion and ecological conservation; (3) emphasizing spatial spillover effects, the importance of inter-city collaboration in environmental policies, and advocating for comprehensive strategies to achieve broader environmental improvements across urban areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
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19 pages, 446 KiB  
Article
Does Farmers’ Cognition Enhance Their Enthusiasm for Adopting Sustainable Digital Agricultural Extension Services? Evidence from Rural China
by Tianzhi Gao, Qian Lu, Yiping Zhang and Hui Feng
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 3972; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16103972 - 9 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1157
Abstract
The service model of digital agricultural technology extension, as a novel and sustainable approach, plays a pivotal role in facilitating the digital transformation of farmers’ agricultural practices. Leveraging survey data from 1475 farmers in China, the study employed a multivariate ordered logit model [...] Read more.
The service model of digital agricultural technology extension, as a novel and sustainable approach, plays a pivotal role in facilitating the digital transformation of farmers’ agricultural practices. Leveraging survey data from 1475 farmers in China, the study employed a multivariate ordered logit model to investigate the relationship between farmers’ cognition and enthusiasm to adopt digital agricultural extension services. The findings revealed that subjective and objective cognitions positively influence farmers’ enthusiasm for adopting digital agricultural extension services. Furthermore, policy incentives, as a significant regulatory factor, effectively influence farmers’ cognition levels and enthusiasm to adopt digital agricultural extension services. Additionally, female respondents, farmers with higher educational levels, and membership in agricultural cooperatives all facilitate the adoption of these services. This study not only enriches the theoretical framework for agricultural technology promotion, aiding in the understanding of farmers’ decision-making processes when adopting digital agricultural extension services, but also provides a deeper insight into the role of digital agricultural technologies in promoting sustainable agricultural development, offering scientific evidence for relevant policy formulation and implementation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
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22 pages, 1445 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Digital Literacy on the Phenomenon of Deviation between Farmers’ E-Commerce Sales Willingness and Behavior: Evidence from Rural China
by Yonghu Zhang and Yifeng Zhang
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 3000; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16073000 - 3 Apr 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2711
Abstract
E-commerce, as a prominent feature of the digital economy era, is highly expected to promote economic growth and sustainable development. Based on the 2020 “China Rural Revitalization Survey” data, this study empirically analyzed the impact and mechanism of digital literacy on the discrepancy [...] Read more.
E-commerce, as a prominent feature of the digital economy era, is highly expected to promote economic growth and sustainable development. Based on the 2020 “China Rural Revitalization Survey” data, this study empirically analyzed the impact and mechanism of digital literacy on the discrepancy between the willingness and behavior of farmers in e-commerce sales. Eleven indicator items were selected, and factor analysis was used to obtain the comprehensive score of digital literacy. Firstly, benchmark regression was performed using the probit model, and then potential endogeneity issues were addressed using the IV probit method and endogenous conversion probit model. The following main conclusions were drawn: Digital literacy has a suppressive effect on the deviation between the willingness and behavior of farmers in e-commerce sales. Farmers with media operation literacy, information acquisition literacy, digital transaction literacy, e-commerce cognitive literacy, and digital social literacy have a 12.3%, 18.3%, 26.2%, 37.5%, and 21.9% reduction in the probability of deviation between the willingness and behavior of farmers in e-commerce sales compared to those without these literacy counterfactual assumptions. Digital literacy helps curb the deviation between farmers’ willingness and behavior in e-commerce sales by facilitating their access to financial resources and agricultural production services. This study demonstrates that enhancing the digital literacy of farmers will promote their willingness to convert e-commerce sales into behavior, help promote sustainable agricultural products more efficiently, and make important contributions to economic growth and sustainable development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
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15 pages, 1657 KiB  
Article
The Efficiency of Resource Utilization in EU-28 Countries through Eco-Innovation and Digital Inclusion
by Alexandra-Maria Constantin, Orlando-Marian Voica, Cătălin-Ionuț Silvestru, Vasilica-Cristina Icociu, Ramona-Camelia Silvestru and Andreea Grecu
Sustainability 2023, 15(24), 16924; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152416924 - 18 Dec 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1616
Abstract
Innovation has been a historical driver for progress. The need for more effective resource utilization has ignited the presence of many innovations in the economic environment. Among others, digitalization and internet connectivity are important pillars of development. Our paper aims to provide a [...] Read more.
Innovation has been a historical driver for progress. The need for more effective resource utilization has ignited the presence of many innovations in the economic environment. Among others, digitalization and internet connectivity are important pillars of development. Our paper aims to provide a few insights related to the question “How can we increase the efficiency of resource utilization in EU-28 countries through Eco-Innovation and Digital Inclusion?” This paper examines the issue of innovation related to the use of natural resources (Eco-innovation) as a determining factor in resource consumption in societies with different levels of digital inclusion. Our analysis is based on clustering of EU-28 Member States using three variables: the degree of digital inclusion, the Eco-Innovation Index, and the degree of resource use. We expect digital inclusion to mediate the relationship between eco-innovation and resource utilization. Clustering might reveal how the Eco-Innovation Index, Digital Inclusion Level, and Resource Productivity Index differ among EU-28 Member States and provide relevant information for prioritization of resource allocation at the EU level. Our approach of clustering based on the three variables considered reveals that countries with a better economy present better performance from the point of view of Digital Inclusion in the context of Eco-Innovation and the use of resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
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17 pages, 930 KiB  
Article
Acceptance of Digital Transformation: Evidence from Romania
by Bogdan Rusu, Christiana Brigitte Sandu, Silvia Avasilcai and Irina David
Sustainability 2023, 15(21), 15268; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152115268 - 25 Oct 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1982
Abstract
The digital transformation (DT) implies designing products and services, to which digital technology is applied, that are adopted and used by customers. However, if people do not accept the new technologies embedded in the innovative products and services, DT will fail. Therefore, getting [...] Read more.
The digital transformation (DT) implies designing products and services, to which digital technology is applied, that are adopted and used by customers. However, if people do not accept the new technologies embedded in the innovative products and services, DT will fail. Therefore, getting to know the determinant factors that affect acceptance is necessary, especially during economic turmoil that requires companies to become even more competitive. Moreover, Romania is lagging behind in its digital progress. The aim of this research is to draw upon a previous study on successful DT, analyze personal and social acceptance factors, and empirically verify whether they would affect DT in Romania. We identified from the literature the main factors (behavioral and innovative characteristics) affecting the DT acceptance attitude and adapted the theoretical model to the Romanian context. The study collected data from 123 persons using an online questionnaire and applied a structural equation model to test the theoretical model. The empirical results emphasize that the acceptance attitude of DT is positively associated with individuals’ behavioral factors and innovative characteristics. Moreover, DT acceptance attitude positively impacts both personal and social acceptance of DT. This research provides both theoretical and empirical contributions by adapting the theoretical DT model and testing it for the Romanian context, using personal and social acceptance. These findings are important for managers and policy makers that seek to transform their organizations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
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28 pages, 381 KiB  
Article
Impacts of the Sustainable Development of Cross-Border E-Commerce Pilot Zones on Regional Economic Growth
by Lifan Yang, Junhua Liu and Weixin Yang
Sustainability 2023, 15(18), 13876; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151813876 - 18 Sep 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3581
Abstract
This paper evaluates the sustainable development of cross-border e-commerce pilot zones and their impact on regional economic growth. A comprehensive performance evaluation system is constructed to assess the degree of sustainable development in the first five batches of cross-border e-commerce pilot zones in [...] Read more.
This paper evaluates the sustainable development of cross-border e-commerce pilot zones and their impact on regional economic growth. A comprehensive performance evaluation system is constructed to assess the degree of sustainable development in the first five batches of cross-border e-commerce pilot zones in China between 2011 and 2020, which reveals significant regional differences and a clear “Matthew effect”. We also quantify the specific role of cross-border e-commerce pilot zones in promoting regional economic growth; specifically, we demonstrate that the level of sustainable development of cross-border e-commerce pilot zones has a significant positive impact on regional economic growth and show that these effects vary according to regional distribution, city level, and the degree of sustainable development of cross-border e-commerce pilot zones. On this basis, we explore the mechanism through which these factors influence one another and identify three main channels on which to focus for further development: industrial structure upgrades, institutional innovation, and consumption upgrades. Finally, based on empirical results, we propose differentiated policy suggestions for various regions and city levels through the provision of theoretical and practical support for promoting the healthy and sustainable development of cross-border e-commerce pilot zones and the stable growth of regional economies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
18 pages, 797 KiB  
Article
Does the Use of Digital Finance Affect Household Farmland Transfer-Out?
by Haibo Lei and Qin Su
Sustainability 2023, 15(16), 12103; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151612103 - 8 Aug 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1372
Abstract
Digital finance offers opportunities for inclusive growth in rural areas. This study aims to clarify how digital financiers affect farmland transfer-out. Using the data from the China Household Finance Survey in 2015, this paper establishes Probit and Tobit models to empirically analyze the [...] Read more.
Digital finance offers opportunities for inclusive growth in rural areas. This study aims to clarify how digital financiers affect farmland transfer-out. Using the data from the China Household Finance Survey in 2015, this paper establishes Probit and Tobit models to empirically analyze the impact and mechanisms of digital finance on household farmland transfer-out. The study finds that digital financial use significantly increases the probability and proportion of farmland transfer-out and that this effect is greater among households with older heads and lower household per capita income and financial accessibility, suggesting that digital finance has an important role to play in reducing inequality and promoting inclusive growth. Further analysis reveals that off-farm employment and information channels are mediating mechanisms through which digital finance facilitates farmland transfer. Specifically, on the one hand, the financial function of digital finance increases the share of employment and entrepreneurship among rural households. In terms of industry and skill type, digital finance promotes the entry of farmers into tertiary employment, facilitates off-farm employment for low and medium-skilled farmers, and has no impact on the employment of high-skilled farmers. On the other hand, the information function accompanying digital finance broadens households’ access to information, both of which have a favorable effect on farmland transfer-out. This study provides new ideas for supporting agricultural land transfer from a digital finance perspective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Economy and Sustainable Development)
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