Burgas Free University Academic Research Repository
Академично научно хранилище на Бургаския свободен университет
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СЪСТОЯНИЕ И ТЕНДЕНЦИИ В РАЗВИТИЕТО НА СИНЯТА ИКОНОМИКА НА БЪЛГАРИЯ
(Бургаски Свободен Университет, 2025) Николова, Атанаска; Харизанова-Бартос, Христина
Global challenges related to climate change, overexploitation of natural resources, environmental pollution, as well as intensive urbanization of coastal areas determine the importance and relevance of the transition to a sustainable blue economy. The topic is particularly relevant for Bulgaria, because the sectors of the blue economy make a significant contribution to the socio-economic development of the country, but due to the vulnerability of the Black Sea ecosystem, the economic potential of the Bulgarian coastal and marine ecosystem is exposed to the risk. The purpose of the publication is to analyze the status and trends of development of the blue economy of Bulgaria (2009-2021), as well as to examine its contribution to the socio-economic development of the country. 7The study shows that the sectors of the blue economy have growth potential, but are vulnerable to the impact of crises of different nature (economic, health, political, etc.). The report identifies the need an unified national database oriented towards the sectors of the blue economy to be created. A recommendation is made to strengthen science-based management of the marine environment and economic development (including the blue economy) as key to addressing the growing risks. Outcomes of the study provides an analytical basis for the formation of proposals for tools for an effective transition to a sustainable blue economy in Bulgaria.
USER ACCEPTANCE OF PUBLIC CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE – A LITERATURE REVIEW
(Бургаски Свободен Университет, 2025) Sucietto, Vanessa
This research paper investigates factors influencing user acceptance of public charging infrastructure to support the widespread adoption of electric mobility. Based on a systematic literature review, key factors are identified. These factors include the availability, accessibility and reliability of charging stations as well as user-centered factors such as convenience features, user-friendliness and digital services. Moreover, the standardization and interoperability of systems as well as the integration of renewable energies and a supportive legal framework are crucial to increase user acceptance. The results show that an integrated approach for the development of public charging infrastructure is required to increase user acceptance and accelerate the transition to electric mobility.
DIGITAL VALUE CHAINS – AN EXPLORATORY STUDY ON THE IMPACT OF DIGITALIZATION ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF VALUE CHAINS IN THE BANKING AND FINANCE INDUSTRY
(Бургаски Свободен Университет, 2025) Rueckold, Christian
This research evaluates the impact of the digital transformation on the value chains of the banking and finance industry around the themes trust, efficiency, business model innovation and value chain player dynamics. A mixed method approach is used, comprising a review of scientific literature, qualitative interviews of industry experts and evaluation of selected real-world case studies. Findings suggest the trust and efficiency impacted by digitalization whereas the rise of new business models can be observed selectively and new players such as fintechs gaining power but do endanger of replace incumbent players only to a limited extent.
EVALUATING SUSTAINABILITY, RESILIENCE AND HUMAN CENTRICITY IN MANUFACTURING: A MULTICRITERIA APPROACH ALIGNED WITH INDUSTRY 5.0
(Бургаски Свободен Университет, 2025) Skėrė, Simona
THE ROLE OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN ENHANCING MSME COMPETITIVENESS ACROSS EU
(Бургаски Свободен Университет, 2025) Veiga, Pedro
This study investigates how digital transformation influences the competitiveness of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the European Union (EU). Using data from the Flash Eurobarometer 486 survey, the analysis focuses on the adoption of digital technologies and the barriers that hinder their effective integration. Key variables include the type of digital technologies adopted, perceived barriers to digitalization, firm size, and the presence of strategic growth planning. A linear regression model is employed to assess how these factors influence firm growth, measured by changes in employment and turnover. The results show that MSMEs adopting advanced digital tools – such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and cloud computing – tend to experience higher levels of growth and competitiveness. In contrast, technologies like robotics and blockchain show no significant effect. Barriers such as lack of financial resources, limited digital skills, and inadequate infrastructure do not significantly predict growth. However, internal resistance to change and uncertainty about future digital standards are negatively associated with firm performance. The study highlights the importance of internal capabilities and strategic planning over external constraints.