Roido Mitoula

This study examines Greek consumers’ environmental and social attitudes, perceptions, and purchasing intentions regarding cosmetic products, with particular emphasis on sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR). A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed using an anonymous online questionnaire administered between January 12 and February 26, 2025. The final sample consisted of 375 respondents from various age groups, primarily residing in the Attica region. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square (χ²) tests of independence, with effect sizes calculated through Cramer’s V. The findings indicate that functional and economic criteria such as product effectiveness, price, quality, and brand reputation remain the dominant determinants of cosmetic purchasing behavior. Although environmental and social factors are recognized, they operate mainly as secondary considerations. Cruelty-free certification emerged as the most influential sustainability attribute, with a notable proportion of participants expressing willingness to pay a premium for products not tested on animals. In contrast, willingness to pay more for eco-friendly packaging or socially responsible production was more limited, suggesting the presence of an attitude–behavior gap. Gender significantly influenced ethical purchasing tendencies, while income and education showed weaker or non-significant effects. The study contributes empirical evidence from the Greek market and offers managerial and policy implications. Keywords: Ethical consumption, Sustainable consumer behavior, Cosmetics industry, Cruelty-free products, Willingness to pay, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Greece

Purpose – This study explores the use of new technologies in the primary production sector as a tool for addressing climate change challenges and enhancing sustainable development. It focuses on the contribution of technologies such as smart agriculture, the Internet of Things (IoT), and automation in improving productivity, crop resilience, and reducing the environmental footprint. At the same time, it examines the challenges associated with technological transition, with particular emphasis on small-scale farmers’ access, data security, and the required investments and strategies.Design/Methodology/Approach – The research is based on theoretical analysis and an empirical case study in Greece, focusing on the production of traditional products in Western Macedonia. It includes both qualitative and quantitative methods, data collection from farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs, as well as statistical analysis to evaluate the factors influencing the adoption of new technologies in the primary sector. Findings – The results highlight the significant contribution of new technologies in improving the efficiency of agricultural holdings and reducing the environmental impact. However, challenges related to limited access to technological solutions, the need for specialized training for farmers, and data management issues are identified. Small-scale farmers face greater difficulties in integrating these technologies due to financial and organizational constraints.Originality – This research contributes to understanding the potential and limitations of new technologies in the Greek primary sector, focusing on a region with strong agricultural activity and traditional product production. It provides empirical data on the application of smart farming practices and proposes policy recommendations for sustainable development and technological integration in the agricultural sector.

The widespread use of asbestos in the past in building materials for many schools and the improper maintenance of these schools right up to the present, is a serious problem that the country has to face up to. This has had serious effects on human health. The present paper using as point of reference the various asbestos management policies applied in school units in the UK and the USA, focuses on Greece as a case study taking into account EU directions and guidelines. The research methodology is founded on data from various studies, legal frameworks, and EU Directives, as well as on personal interviews with the managers of the Building Infrastructures(BI), a body responsible for the management and resolution of the asbestos problem in Greek school units. Overall, the research underlines the fact that the asbestos issue is still prevalent and a huge amount of money is required for its resolution. In Greece, the implementation of a management plan for the removal of asbestos from school units was launched in 2004.

Purpose – The primary aim of this quantitative survey research is to explore the connection between environmental education, participation in environ-mental programs or actions, and the enhancement of pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors in individuals. In light of global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation, under-standing how education and active engagement can promote sustainability is increasingly crucial. This study aims to determine whether exposure to environmental education and participation in environmental actions can influence individuals’ environmental consciousness and encourage more sustainable practices. Design/Methodology/Approach – The study sample consisted of 2,687 Greek consumers, aged 18 to 29 years. This age group was specifically chosen to capture insights from young adults, who are key to future sustainability efforts. The Mann-Whitney non-parametric test was used to analyze potential differences in environmental awareness among participants who had received environmental education and those who had participated in environmental programs. The survey gathered responses related to specific actions, dailyhabits, and individual choices to assess the level of environmental consciousness among the participants. The research method focused on determining how environmental education and participation in programs impacted behaviors related to sustainability.Findings – The findings of this survey indicate that individuals who received environmental education in school are more likely to consider the environmental consequences of their purchasing decisions. Furthermore, those who have participated in environmental programs or actions were more inclined to adopt pro-environmental behaviors, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and opting for sustainable products. Additionally, the analysis revealed that participants aged 26–29 demonstrated higher environmentalconsciousness than their younger counterparts aged 18–21, suggesting that environmental awareness increases with age and experience. Originality – This study contributes to the body of research on environmental education and sustainability by highlighting the significant role that both education and active participation in environmental initiatives play in fostering environmental awareness. It emphasizes the importance of these factors in encouraging sustainable behaviors and helping create a more sustainable andeco-conscious society. Design/Methodology/Approach – The sample involved 2,687 Greek consumers aged 18 to 29 years. The non-parametric Mann–Whitney test was used to explore possible differences in the environmental consciousness of the research participants in relation to whether they have been taught environmental education at school and/or they have participated in an environmental program or action in the past. The survey participants were asked to respond regarding the frequency of specific actions and daily habits, which frame their environmental consciousness and awareness. The questionnaire included behaviors such as recycling, reducing water and energy use, and choosing eco-friendly products. A multiple linear regression analysis was also conducted to assess the effect of age and other factors on environmental attitudes and actions. Findings – The results of this survey showed that the people who have been taught about environmental education at school are more likely to consider the environmental impact of the products they buy, while those who have participated in environmental programs or actions adopt more consistent pro-environmental behaviors. These include limiting single-use plastics and supporting sustainability-related initiatives. Furthermore, through the multiple linear regression analysis, it was found that the participants aged 26–29 have an increased environmental consciousness compared to the participants aged 18–21, possibly due to increased maturity, life experience, and exposure to sustainability-related information. Originality – This survey adds to the existing literature on environmental education and sustainability by highlighting the importance of environmental education and participation in environmental programs or actions towards increasing environmental consciousness and awareness and building a sustainable society. It underscores the necessity of incorporating structured environmental education within formal curricula and promoting active participation through community-based programs.

Smart cities leverage digital marketing to promote sustainability and build a distinctive global branding. Despite its growing significance, the role digital marketing in smart city development remains underexplored. This study aims to fill this gap by employing bibliometric analysis of 1908 articles indexed in the Scopus database (2000–2024), using the Bibliometrix R-Studio (version 1.4.1743) and VOSviewer (version 1.6.20). The analysis reveals two thematic clusters: (1) “Digital Innovation and Sustainability”, which emphasizes technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data for energy efficiency and green urban development; and (2) “Governance and Policy”, which highlights digital marketing’s role in enabling participatory governance, citizen engagement, and inclusive urban policies. Findings underscore that digital marketing is not only a strategic communication channel but also a driver of sustainable urban transformation. By synthesizing insights from urban planning, technology, and sustainability, this paper provides a novel perspective on the intersection of digital marketing and smart cities. The results provide valuable guidance for policymakers, city planners, and researchers to harness digital marketing in promoting sustainability and further develop the smart city concept.

Migration processes pose important social problems and demand appropriate integration policies. With this perspective in mind, the present study investigates native residents’ opinion on the contribution of immigrants to urban economy in Athens, Greece, using a self-reported questionnaire submitted to a convenience sample of 446 native residents 18+ years old. In spite of the current economic crisis, mixed responses were recorded about the extent Greek government should allow new immigrants to come, live and work in the country. Conversely, citizens’ opinions were rather homogeneous and negative when speaking about the state benefits granted to immigrants. Respondents who believe that, in the near future, a high (and possibly increasing) number of immigrants should be allowed to live, and work in Greece, demonstrated to be fully aware of the importance of integration policies. By contrast, in line with the ‘secular’ role of families permeating the Greek society, married people were more inclined to refuse any policy of immigrants’ integration compared to single people. Future research should emphasize how institutions, national/local policies, and contextual aspects including ethnic networks, social capital, and labor market conditions, may influence immigrant integration in traditional, Mediterranean societies.

This paper examines the critical role of Mega Infrastructure Projects in sustainable urban and peripheral development by presenting a Sustainable Infrastructure Serum Analysis supported by primary field research. In the Athens Metro case study, we examined the project's impact on sustainable development by analysing the opinions of the project's users. As a result, the Athens Metro serves as a case study to help us better understand sustainable infrastructure as a framework for green growth from the standpoint of society. The three pillars of sustainable development are inextricably linked. This study focuses on the social comprehension and acceptance of a Mega Infrastructure Project effects. We attempt to demonstrate the interdependence of the three pillars of sustainable development through public opinion responses to our research by developing a statistical model fed by public responses to a prototype questionnaire that we developed to support our research objectives. The study's findings highlighted the project's social acceptability and necessity by establishing a direct positive correlation between sustainability, society, the economy, and the environment from the standpoint of society.

A safe and healthy working environment is vital for overall sustainability, due to the fact that it affects opportunities of economic and social development. However, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO), despite the international commitment to Occupational Health and Safety (OSH) via the 2030’s Agenda Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), work-related accidents are still far too common. Work-related mortality accounts for 5% of all deaths worldwide; a toll which has increased dramatically due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, in the context of COVID-19, new demands on the labour market, such as teleworking, adequate protective measures, and proper use of personal protective equipment when physical presence cannot be avoided, are necessitating new approaches to ensure health and safety. Arguably, education can be viewed as a cross-cutting strategy in advance of a culture of safety for future generations, through strengthening skills and broadening knowledge. Indeed, even though education cannot be considered a panacea, related to SDG 4, which seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all, it can be considered a critical component to deal with OSH issues using a preventive, rather than a reactive, approach. Given this fact, European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) has stressed the prevention approach through mainstreaming OSH in education at all levels, and in all fields of vocational and academic training. Aware of the potential of universities to provide graduates the broad-based knowledge to produce labour-market skills including OSH, the aim of this study is to contribute to the discussion on mainstreaming OSH into Greek university education, using Harokopio University (HUA) as a case study. For this purpose, a web-based survey was conducted to address HUA’s students, faculty members, and staff OSH knowledge, risks awareness, and attitudes, as well as their perceptions, opinions, and beliefs about the role of OSH for academia. A statistical analysis depicted respondents’ high level of willingness to contribute to the promotion of OSH, while additional evidence suggests a considerable commitment of the respondents to participate in HUA’s OSH-related training and education.

There is robust evidence that homelessness and the associated life conditions of a homeless person may cause and exacerbate a wide range of health problems, while healthcare for the homeless is simultaneously limited in accessibility, availability, and appropriateness. This article investigates legal frameworks of health care provision, existing knowledge on numbers of homeless to be considered, and current means of health care provision for four EU countries with different economic and public health background: Austria, Greece, Poland, and Romania. National experts investigated the respective regulations and practices in place with desk research. The results show differences in national frameworks of inclusion into health care provision and knowledge on the number of people experiencing homelessness, but high similarity when it comes to main actors of actual health care provision for homeless populations. In all included countries, despite their differences in economic investments and universality of access to public health systems, it is mainly NGOs providing health care to those experiencing homelessness. This phenomenon fits into conceptual frameworks developed around service provision for vulnerable population groups, wherein it has been described as “structural compensation,” meaning that NGOs compensate a structural inappropriateness that can be observed within public health systems.