Increasing levels of everyday cycling has many benefits for both individuals and for cities. Reduced traffic congestion, improved air quality and safer spaces for all vulnerable road users are among the significant benefits for urban developments. Despite this, public opposition to cycling infrastructure is common, particularly when it involves reprioritising road space for cycles instead of vehicles. The purpose of the research was to examine various stakeholders’ perspectives on proposed cycle infrastructure projects. This study utilised an innovative data collection approach through detailed content analysis of 322 public consultation submissions on a proposed active travel scheme in Limerick City, Ireland. By categorising submissions into support, opposition, and proposals, the study reveals the nuanced public perceptions that influence behavioural adaptation and acceptance of sustainable transport infrastructure. Supportive submissions, which outnumbered opposition-related submissions by approximately 2:1, emphasised the need for dedicated cycling infrastructure, enhanced cyclist safety, and potential improvements in environmental conditions. In contrast, opposition submissions focused on concerns over car parking removal, decreased accessibility for residents, and safety issues for vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly. Proposal submissions suggested design modifications, including enhanced safety features, provisions for convenient car parking, and alternative cycle routes. This paper highlights the value of structured public consultation data in uncovering behavioural determinants and barriers to cycling infrastructure adoption, offering policymakers essential insights into managing public opposition and fostering support. The methodology demonstrates how qualitative data from consultations can be effectively used to inform policy by capturing community-specific needs and enhancing the design of sustainable urban mobility systems. These findings underscore the need for innovative, inclusive data collection methods that reveal public sentiment, facilitating evidence-based transport policies that support climate-neutral mobility.
This research examines the influence of virtual community platform attributes on luxury consumers’ purchase intentions, with a specific focus on the role of policy innovation in digital infrastructure. The study aims to 1) identify key factors affecting purchase intentions toward luxury products in virtual environments; 2) develop and validate a structural equation model to analyze these intentions; and 3) provide actionable insights for luxury goods marketers to refine their strategies within these platforms. Utilizing a structural equation model, the study investigates the interactions among various determinants of consumer behavior in virtual communities, highlighting the impact of policy innovation. Data was collected through purposive sampling from 1142 respondents in China’s top 10 high-spending cities on luxury goods, ensuring data relevance. The findings emphasize the significance of knowledge sharing, interactive communication, and leaders’ opinions in virtual communities in building consumer trust and shaping perceptions of online reviews. These elements influence purchase intentions directly and indirectly, with consumer trust serving as a crucial mediator. The study reveals the substantial impact of virtual community attributes on fostering consumer trust and shaping buying decisions for luxury items, underlining the contribution of social development processes. Moreover, the role of policy innovation is found to be significant in enhancing these virtual community dynamics, suggesting that regulatory changes can positively influence consumer engagement and trust. The conclusions offer valuable implications for marketers, proposing strategies to boost consumer engagement and drive sales in virtual settings. This research contributes to the theoretical understanding of digital consumer behavior and provides practical strategies for innovation and growth within the luxury goods sector, emphasizing the critical role of policy innovation in shaping these dynamics.
This study explores the complex dynamics of handling augmented reality (AR) data in higher education in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Although there is a growing interest in incorporating augmented reality (AR) to improve learning experiences, there are still issues in efficiently managing the data produced by these apps. This study attempts to understand the elements that affect AR data management by examining the relationship between the investigated variables: faculty readiness, technological limits, financial constraint, and student engagement on data management in higher education institutions in the UAE, building on earlier research that has identified these problems. The research analyzes financial constraints, technological infrastructure, and faculty preparation to understand their impact on AR data management. The study collected detailed empirical data on AR data management in UAE higher education environments using a quantitative research methods approach, surveys. The reasons for choosing this research method include cost-effectiveness, flexibility in questionnaire design, anonymity and confidentiality involved in the chosen methods. The results of this study are expected to enhance academic discourse by highlighting the obstacles and remedies to improving the efficiency of AR technology data management at higher education institutions. The findings are expected to enlighten decision-making in higher education institutions on maximizing AR technology’s benefits for improved learning outcomes.
This paper aims to analyze the impact of access to Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) on the private returns to higher education (HE) focusing on gender inequality in 2020. Methodology: To evaluate the above impact a set of Mincerian equations will be estimated. The proposed approach mitigates biases associated with self-selection and individual heterogeneity. Data: The database comes from the National Household Income and Expenditure Survey (Encuesta Nacional de Ingresos y Gastos de los Hogares, ENIGH) from 2020. Results: Empirical evidence suggests that individuals that have HE have a positive and greater impact on their salary income compared to those with a lower educational level, being women that do not have access to ICT those with the lowest wage return. Policy: Access to ICT should be considered as one of the criteria that integrate social deprivation in the measurement of multidimensional poverty. Likewise, it is necessary to design public policies that promote the strengthening and creation of educational and/or training systems in technological matters for women. Limitations: No distinction was made between individuals that graduated from public or private schools, nor was income from sources other than work considered. Originality: This investigation evaluates the impact of access to ICT on the returns to higher education in Mexico, in 2020, addressing gender disparity.
This study explores the transformative role of art design interventions in the sustainable development and infrastructure enhancement of intangible cultural heritage, with a particular focus on honored brands. The research develops a framework that positions aesthetic and interactive art design interventions as pivotal components in revitalizing these brands. Aesthetic interventions translate the brand’s core philosophy, spirit, and values into compelling visual symbols, harmonizing cultural heritage with modern image design to elevate brand reputation and consumer preference. Interactive interventions enhance user experience, particularly among younger demographics, by integrating technological and entertainment-based engagement, thereby strengthening consumer loyalty and brand influence. The study further investigates how these art design interventions serve as catalysts for broader social development, contributing to the modern relevance and societal impact of time-honored brands. Additionally, it examines the impact of these interventions on sustainable development, societal support, and policy alignment. By weaving together these elements, the research underscores the critical importance of aligning brand strategies with societal goals, fostering environments where brands actively contribute to social welfare and sustainable growth. The findings offer valuable theoretical insights and practical strategies for the sustainable development of time-honored brands, providing clear directions for future research and practice.
This study investigates seismic risk and potential impacts of future earthquakes in the Sunda Strait region, known for its susceptibility to significant seismic events due to the subduction of the Indo-Australian Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate. The aim is to assess the likelihood of major earthquakes, estimate their impact, and propose strategies to mitigate associated risks. The research uses historical seismic data and probabilistic models to forecast earthquakes with magnitudes ranging from 6.0 to 8.2 Mw. The Gutenberg-Richter model helps project potential earthquake occurrences and their impacts. The findings suggest that the probability of a major earthquake could occur as early as 2026–2027, with a more significant event estimated to likely occur around 2031. Economic estimates for a 7.8–8.2 Mw earthquake suggest potential damage of up to USD 1.255 billion with significant loss of life. The study identifies key vulnerabilities, such as inadequate building foundations and ineffective disaster management infrastructure, which could worsen the impact of future seismic events. In conclusion, the research highlights the urgent need for comprehensive seismic risk mitigation strategies. Recommendations include reinforcing infrastructure to comply with seismic standards, implementing advanced early warning systems, and enhancing public education on earthquake preparedness. Additionally, government policies must address these issues by increasing funding for disaster management, enforcing building regulations, and incorporating traditional knowledge into construction practices. These measures are essential to reducing future earthquake impacts and improving community resilience.
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