SUSTAINABLE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND COMPLEX ADAPTIVE SYSTEMS: A METHODOLOGICAL PROPOSAL THROUGH SOCIAL NETWORK ANALYSIS

Diego Andrés CARREÑO DUEÑAS

School of Mines, National University of Colombia (Universidad Nacional de Colombia), Medellin, Colombia;  Professor, School of Industrial Management, Pedagogical and Technological University of Colombia (Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia), Duitama, Colombia.

dicarrenod@unal.edu.co, diego.carreno@uptc.edu.co 

Walter Lugo RUIZ CASTAÑEDA

Professor, Department of Organizational Engineering, School of Mines, National University of Colombia (Universidad Nacional de Colombia), Medellin Colombia.

wlruizca@unal.edu.co

Abstract

The evolution of the main theories that have shaped Sustainable Regional Development (SRD) is traced in this paper, with the progressive incorporation of economic, social, environmental, and institutional dimensions showing how it is configured as a complex phenomenon. Based on this conceptual foundation, the study links the analysis of SRD to the Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) framework and, within this approach, to Social Network Analysis (SNA) as a tool for modelling interactions among regional stakeholders. Finally, it introduces a correlation between the resulting regional network metrics and the Departmental Innovation Index (IDIC) indicators for Colombia’s regions, offering an alternative perspective for analysing regional disparities.

Keywords: Sustainable Regional Development, Divergence, Complex Adaptive Systems, Social Network Analysis

JEL classification: O20, R11

pp. 85-99

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MEASURING THE PERFORMANCE OF EXPORT ECONOMIC BRANCHES LOCATED INSIDE CLUSTERS: EVIDENCE FROM GREECE

Andreas GKOUZOS

Department of Regional and Economic Development, School of Applied Economics and Social Sciences, Agricultural University of Athens, Amfissa, Greece

agkouzos@aua.gr

ORCID ID: 0000-0003-3905-9205

Manolis CHRISTOFAKIS

Department of Business Administration, School of Business, University of the Aegean, Chios, Greece

mchri@aegean.gr

ORCID ID: 0009-0005-7416-0378

Abstract

The paper investigates the impact of clusters on the performance of export economic branches in Greek NUTS-2 regions for 2008 and 2018. The study employs a Cluster Index, statistical techniques and Exploratory Spatial Data Analysis, unveiling the intricate relationship between clusters and the competitiveness of export-driven economic branches. The findings illuminate the pivotal role clusters play in shaping export outcomes, indicating that regions in both mainland and insular space host multiple clusters that significantly influence export performance of economic branches. The outcomes of the research offer valuable insights for policy formulation, emphasising the need for custom-tailored strategies that harness sectoral-spatial patterns. In a broader context, the study’s insights provide valuable implications for enhancing overall economies by leveraging agglomeration effects and promoting growth in export-driven branches. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics between clusters and export performance, offering a roadmap for policymakers and stakeholders to foster economic advancement.

Keywords: clusters, export economic branches, Greek NUTS-2 regions, Cluster Index, economic base theory

JEL classification: C18, R12, R58

pp. 71-84

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THE TRANSPORT SYSTEM IN BUCHAREST-ILFOV REGION IN ROMANIA: THE PATH TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY

Corina-Cristiana NASTACĂ

PhD, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Department of Administration and Public Management, Bucharest, Romania

corina.nastaca@amp.ase.ro

(Corresponding Author)

Claudiu-Emanuel SIMION

Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Management Doctoral School, Bucharest, Romania

simionclaudiuemanuel@gmail.com

Abstract

The study analyses the transport system in Bucharest-Ilfov, the most developed region in Romania in order to identify the challenges in managing its development and solutions for improving urban mobility and promote a more sustainable transport system infrastructure in the area. The objectives of the research are: (1) To investigate citizens’ opinions in Bucharest-Ilfov region regarding the transport infrastructure in the area; (2) To analyse citizens’ degree of satisfaction regarding public transport in Bucharest-Ilfov region; (3) To investigate the main problems and challenges of the public transport system and transport infrastructure in the region and propose solutions for improving urban mobility in a sustainable manner. The methodology of the study consists of an opinion survey conducted by the authors within the citizens of Bucharest-Ilfov region in Romania, in order to find out their opinions regarding the transport infrastructure and the local transport system in the region. The research emphasizes the need for the strategic implementation of sustainable transport solutions that promote environmentally friendly mobility, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and ease traffic congestion. Furthermore, in the context of the accelerated urbanization of the Bucharest-Ilfov region, the development of a sustainable transport system is becoming a key factor in ensuring balanced, resilient and environmentally friendly urban growth.

Keywords: urban mobility, sustainability, Bucharest-Ilfov region, local public transport system

JEL classification: R0, R1, R4

pp. 53-70

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