Purpose: This study investigates the mediating effect of Environmental Attachment (EA) among consumers in an emerging market, concentrating on the impact of two key factors: Green Environmental Awareness (GEA) and Sense of Responsibility (SOR) on Sustainable Product Consumption (SPC). Design/methodology/approach: A thorough online survey was carried out with Google Docs and distributed to 304 Pakistani consumers who now use or are considering purchasing sustainable or green products. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to rigorously test the suggested model utilizing a non-probability sampling technique, specifically the stratified purposive sampling approach. Findings: Green environmental awareness (GEA) and a sense of responsibility (SOR) have been shown to have a substantial impact on creating environmental attachment (EA) in both existing and potential customers of sustainable products. The findings of this study also revealed that environmental attachment (EA) plays an important role as a mediator in the links between green environmental awareness (GEA) and the consumption of sustainable goods (SPC), as well as between a sense of responsibility (SOR) and SPC. Despite this, it is crucial to note that the projected direct effect of GEA on SPC was shown to be statistically insignificant. This conclusion implies that additional factors outside the scope of this study may influence the relationship between GEA and SPC. Research limitations/implications: It is vital to highlight that the focus of this study is on an online sample of consumers near Punjab, Pakistan. Future studies should look at other parts of Pakistan to acquire a more complete picture of sustainable consumption trends. Furthermore, our findings suggest that characteristics impacting sustainable consumption, such as Green Environmental Awareness (GEA) and Sense of Responsibility (SOR), may differ among countries. As a result, performing a comparison analysis involving two or more countries could provide valuable insights into projecting sustainable product consumption among current and potential sustainable product customers. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by investigating the factors of sustainable consumption using the lens of the Norm Activation Model theory (NAM), notably Green Environmental Awareness (GEA) and Sense of Responsibility (SOR), to predict sustainable product consumption. The findings are important for promoting long-term goals in Pakistan and provide a framework that can be applied in other emerging markets.

Relying on the D-Vine copula model, this paper delves into the hedging capabilities of Brent crude oil against the exchange rate of oil-exporting and oil-importing nations. The results affirm Brent crude oil’s role as a safeguard and a refuge against the fluctuations of major currencies. Furthermore, we reaffirm that oil retains its robust hedging and safe-haven attributes during times of crisis, with currency co-movements across all countries exhibiting greater correlation than during the entire dataset. Additionally, our empirical findings highlight an unusually positive correlation between Brent crude oil and the Russian exchange rate during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, demonstrating that oil functions as a less effective hedge and a less dependable refuge for the Russian exchange rate in such geopolitical turbulence.

Disability inclusion is important to ensure everybody has the same opportunities in society, which is critical in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are one of the marginalized communities and most of them are living in poverty. Disabilities encounter many challenges internally and externally due to their disabilities. They are struggling to keep their jobs due to their own self-confidence and social stigma and entrepreneurship is said to be the best option for PWDs to gain economic liberation. However, many PWDs still depend on government assistance and public donations instead of starting their own business. This study investigates the mediating effect of entrepreneurial motivation on the relationship between internal and external factors of PWDs’ perceptions of entrepreneurship in Malaysia. A quantitative approach to the survey was carried out. A sample of seventy-seven PWDs was gathered using face-to-face and online surveys through purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using structural equation modelling. The results show that only internal factors influence PWDs’ entrepreneurial personal perception. Entrepreneurial motivation plays a crucial mediating role in the relationship between internal and external factors and entrepreneurial personal perception. The study is helpful for the relevant parties to assist PWDs in becoming financially independent through entrepreneurship by focusing more on their internal strengths. Proper training and coaching assist PWDs in being more resilient when facing adversity.

 This study employs a virtual reality (VR) game to examine the role of VR gaming in learning Saudi cultural heritage. By creating 3D (Three-dimensional) virtual heritage buildings, the game immerses players in cultural scenes, fostering a lasting appreciation for art history. Objectives include making heritage information dissemination engaging, blending learning and entertainment in a 3D environment, designing a gamified setting for active learning, and igniting interest in culture, tradition, architecture, and art history. This paper further highlights the significance of serious gaming in promoting the Saudi cultural heritage among the younger generation. The research involved immersing 59 participants into a heritage building environment using a VR game and then probing their experience of the environment through a questionnaire. Results indicate positive participant experiences, increased interest in Saudi cultural heritage and appreciation for VR technology. The study demonstrates the potential of VR games to make heritage accessible and enjoyable for the younger generation, motivating further exploration and learning. Valuable resources are provided for individuals and researchers interested in using VR gaming for cultural heritage engagement.

This study aims to develop and validate a strategic model tailored to the unique challenges and contexts faced by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Ecuador, enhancing their operational efficiency and access to financing. Employing a quantitative approach, the research utilized a non-experimental, cross-sectional design to gather data from a sample of 358 companies. The study revealed that MSMEs are significantly hindered by limited access to financing, lack of managerial skills, and technological gaps. Despite these challenges, MSMEs demonstrated considerable adaptability and resilience, underscoring their critical role in the local economy. The strategic model proposed leverages Porter’s Diamond Model to identify and address the specific competitive and operational challenges encountered by these enterprises. Key findings include the necessity for enhanced financial literacy, simplified regulatory frameworks, and the integration of digital technologies to improve competitiveness. The proposed model focuses on strategic training, fostering innovation, and creating a more supportive financing environment. The implications of this study are profound, suggesting that policymakers and practitioners should streamline regulatory processes, enhance financial and technological support frameworks, and provide tailored training programs. These strategies are intended to bolster the sustainability and growth of MSMEs, contributing to broader economic development. This research contributes to the academic literature by providing empirical evidence on the challenges faced by MSMEs in developing economies and proposing a contextually adapted strategic model to mitigate these challenges, thereby enhancing their economic impact and sustainability.

Green cosmetics made from organic ingredients are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmentally friendly nature. However, research on consumer behavior towards green cosmetics is rare, especially in developing countries like Pakistan. Previous studies have primarily focused on female consumers, and little is known about the behavior of male consumers. Therefore, this research aims to investigate the behavior of both male and female consumers towards green cosmetic products and analyze the factors that affect their purchase behavior. This study employs a quantitative approach with deductive reasoning and collects data through a questionnaire from major cities in Pakistan. The study finds that eco-awareness, social influence, price-quality instructions, health consciousness, and the need for uniqueness significantly influence consumer purchase behavior when buying green cosmetics. Interestingly, price sensitivity does not significantly affect consumer purchase behavior as consumers are willing to pay for high-quality green cosmetics. Based on the findings, the study recommends promoting eco-awareness and health consciousness among consumers through educational campaigns and workshops launched by the government and the private sector. Future research can explore factors such as age, gender, and specific generations like millennials and Generation Z, as well as packaging, branding, and product design to promote environmentally friendly and health-conscious products. Additionally, comparative studies between countries can identify universal and region-specific factors, and examining the overall impact of green cosmetic products on the environment can highlight areas for improvement in sustainability.