Magyar Agrár- és Élettudományi Egyetem, Gödöllő
A folyóirat Open Access (Gold). Cikkeire a Creative Commons 4.0 standard licenc alábbi típusa vonatkozik: CC-BY-NC-ND-4.0. Ennek értelmében a mű szabadon másolható, terjeszthető, bemutatható és előadható, azonban nem használható fel kereskedelmi célokra (NC), továbbá nem módosítható és nem készíthető belőle átdolgozás, származékos mű (ND). A licenc alapján a szerző vagy a jogosult által meghatározott módon fel kell tüntetni a szerző nevét és a szerzői mű címét (BY).
The Teaching Handbook represents a major contribution to sustainability education in Hungary, produced through the collaboration of Budapest Metropolitan University and the Hungarian National Bank. Sustainability is understood today as a complex and multi-dimensional concept: in its narrower sense, it refers to the preservation of natural resources and the maintenance of ecological balance; in its broader sense, it encompasses the social and economic processes that secure a livable environment and long-term prosperity for future generations. Adopting this comprehensive perspective, the authors present the economic, social, and financial dimensions of sustainability in an integrated manner, thereby advancing the renewal of higher education and reinforcing its multidisciplinary orientation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Parádi-Dolgos Anett https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Spatial distribution of the 2022 “biblical-scale” drought in Békés County
The purpose of my research was to illustrate the spatial distribution of the 2022 “Biblical” national drought in Békés County. We found that 75 settlements in Békés County submitted 7288 reports. The data shows that settlements with larger populations also submitted more damage reports. We collected this to assist the work of the decision-makers whom are associated with rural development and rural economy research. To collect the data needed to confirm my hypothesis, I conducted qualitative in-depth interviews with local farmers and analysed the spatial distribution of the drought with previously gathered area data and application data included in my analysis from the Hungarian agricultural Payment Agency and the so-called intermediate body, that is the Hungarian State Treasury and the Békés County Government Office that was provided by my co-author. Both the interviews and the analysed data revealed that there were additional consequences and problems related to the great drought (continued lack of precipitation, the winters are milder even by modern standards, the rainy and dry periods became increasingly erratic and the soils capability to retain water has decreased). It should be noted, that all interview participants are either actively taking steps or have tried to implement methods and techniques that try to mitigate or reverse the harmful effects of such phenomena, with varying results. The human and economic factors still persist, and hamper their efforts to eliminate the existing and emerging problems, however there have been both negative and positive changes related to these issues. I confirmed my hypothesis: the lingering after effects of the drought can be still felt and those farmers, whom live in the area are actively working to prevent further problems and repair these lasting damages, with varying degrees of success. We also learned that the drought’s impact was widespread but uneven, with certain settlements experiencing far greater agricultural losses. The spatial distribution of claims closely followed patterns of precipitation deficit and heat.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vigh Zsolt József https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Regional interconnections of road safety systems
The aim of our study is to understand what international examples and best practices exist in the field of public safety systems and how they can be effectively adapted to the domestic regional situation. The efficiency and stability of regional systems and the cost-benefit analysis of their application are also important aspects. The analysis of the data and experience gathered will help to develop effective strategies and systems to improve road safety. Based on the results of our research, we will make recommendations for the improvement of the national road safety system, taking into account international examples and best practices. In addition, we have included in our analysis the cooperation between different organisations to better address road séfet challenges. Our study concludes that it is also important to modernise and improve road infrastructure in order to improve road safety systems. This includes safer road design, improved lighting and signalling systems, and effective enforcement and enforcement of speed limits and other traffic rules. Based on our findings, we have identified the need to develop training and education programmes to help transport professionals and road users to improve road safety knowledge and awareness.
Copyright (c) 2025 József Káposzta, Kitti Némediné Kollár, Mónika Urbánné Malomsoki, László Péli https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Urban development factors of SMART transport systems
Nowadays, SMART transport systems are not only a sign of technological progress, but also a sign of sustainable and responsible mobility. These innovative solutions provide answers to transport challenges that meet the development requirements of modern cities and contribute to sustainable urban development, while also providing the basis for future spatial development strategies. SMART transport systems aim to connect people and cities, improve transport efficiency and safety and promote sustainable mobility. In this paper we review the key aspects that underpin the need for and strategic importance of SMART transport systems in modern society. Emphasis will be placed on key factors such as sustainability and environmental awareness, which are increasingly becoming priorities in the field of transport. In our view, eco-efficiency and the development of green technologies are also key to the successful implementation of SMART transport systems. Furthermore, technological development and innovation are also important elements of SMART transport systems, as only innovative solutions and modern technologies can make transport more efficient. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive and detailed analysis of new directions and development opportunities for domestic transport systems. The aspects and strategies presented will help to design and implement SMART transport systems in a more efficient and sustainable way, meeting the needs and challenges of modern society.
Copyright (c) 2025 Kitti Némediné Kollár, József Káposzta, Mónika Urbánné Malomsoki, László Péli https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The limits of spatial concentration of capital and labour markets in the Central-Hungary Region
The development of transport and housing infrastructure, the reduction of trade costs, and the provision of comfortable and affluent living, have contributed significantly to the development of regional centralisation. The industrial revolutions accelerated urbanisation and the emergence of metropolises and their agglomerations. In the age of the 5.0 industrial revolution, the impact of artificial intelligence, bio- and nanotechnology on our lives, and the influence of “surveillance capitalism” and Big Data, pose new challenges and tasks for us all. This study presents three schools of thought on the relationship between regional-urbanisation processes and economic growth. According to the positive view, centralization first stimulates growth, while the critical view is that economic growth can only be sustained if negative externalities are mitigated or stopped. To mitigate the negative externalities of territorial centralisation, many researchers propose the development of smart cities. The third school of inverted U model theory argues that beyond the tipping point, the adverse effects of concentration become dominant. The majority of the data analysed supported the hypothesis that Budapest and its agglomeration are at the critical stage, approaching, and in some cases already reaching, the inverted U model. Negative effects, such as population out-migration from Budapest to Pest county, extremely high property and rental prices, congestion of transport infrastructure due to commuting, and the phenomenon of outward migration of foreign capital investment, suggest that the previous economic benefits are already diminishing and that the negative consequences of spatial concentration are already with us. Labour supply is still attracting workers to the capital due to the higher wages available, but rising commuting and labour shortages suggest that centralisation is reaching its critical limits and the region is approaching the U-model.
Copyright (c) 2025 Adorján Krisztián https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Examining university student’s motivational factors and preferences for job choice
In the changing labour market of the 21st century, it is crucial to understand the motivational factors, drivers and preferences that university students formulate in the face of their prospective employers, as they are the ones who will soon dictate the new trends when entering the labour market. The majority of students who are now in a student-worker relationship are born into Generation Z, and differ in many aspects and personality traits from members of previous generations. They have a different appreciation of themselves and the world around them, different values and different attitudes towards work and their future employers. Many aspects of the labour market challenges of the past decades are changing, and most HR managers are now looking for solutions to these challenges, when in fact the right guidance should be provided to students on the university bench, making life easier for both sides. In the questionnaire survey, 171 university students from almost all counties of Hungary were interviewed, and nearly 75% of them identified themselves as Generation Z. In addition to demographic questions, I also asked about their motivational factors and preferences, their expected net income, and their migration intentions. In addition to these, I examined what kind of assistance they currently receive as students in their educational institution in relation to their choice of job. 59% of students have some intention to migrate, 71% have not yet participated in a dual training or apprenticeship programme, and then 60% said that they either had not gained knowledge and experience of preparing for the world of work or, if they had, they did not feel sufficiently prepared.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vafnóczki Attila József https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Exploring challenges and opportunities for bio-based business models to strengthen Ecuador’s rural economy
The imperative transition from a linear to a circular business model is a critical factor in achieving sustainable development. Bioeconomy offers sustainable long-term economic growth by efficiently utilizing natural resources and integrating bio-based business model innovations alongside circularity principles. As the part of a long-term research searching for bio-based solutions for helping Ecuador’s rural economy, this paper aims to investigate bio-based business models in Ecuador to enhance the understanding of bioeconomy and help rural development within the country. The study employed two methodological approaches: a systematic literature review (SLR) of bio-based business models and graphical visualization. The findings encompass 22 relevant publications from 2020 to 2025. The study identified (1) the nexus between the circular economy and bioeconomy; (2) the framework of bioeconomy in Ecuador for implementing bio-based business models; (3) challenges and opportunities associated with bio-based business models in Ecuador; (4) network visualization of the bio-based models in Ecuador; and (5) top authors in the research field analyzed. This investigation underscores the connection between bioeconomy and bio-based business models for their implementation in rural Ecuador. The results indicate that despite Ecuador's abundant biodiversity, the country faces several challenges, including a lack of collaboration among stakeholders, insufficient public and private funding, limited research and innovation (R&I), inadequate technological resources, and undefined public policies for the implementation of the bioeconomy. The barriers are especially in rural areas, where infrastructural and technological gaps hinder the implementation of bio-based business models. Fostering sustainable models in Ecuador can drive national growth while revitalizing rural economies through employment generation, income diversification, and community resilience. Given that this study was conducted through an online review of diverse scientific articles and reports concerning Ecuador, it is recommended that future research incorporate comprehensive case studies involving interviews and field visits. Such an approach would enable a more nuanced understanding of the specific added value and potential of diverse bio-based enterprises, especially in rural areas. Additionally, a cross-national comparative analysis would be advantageous to explore the coexistence of different bio-based business models and their impact for rural economies. Finally, a life cycle assessment of activities within the bioeconomy framework is crucial, particularly in relation to the agri-food sector in Ecuador given its importance for rural livelihoods and national food security.
Copyright (c) 2025 Erika Luzon, Krisztián Ritter https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
System Dynamics and Environmental Constraints: How CEOs Are Redefining Strategy for Sustainable Corporate Transformation
Based on exploring how the application of System Dynamics Modelling (SDM), combined with an increased awareness of environmental constraints, influences strategic decision-making among corporate executives pursuing sustainability transformation. Drawing upon the principles of systems thinking and environmental frameworks such as the Planetary Boundaries and Limits to Growth, the study investigates how executives adapt to complex, dynamic challenges that transcend traditional business metrics. Using qualitative data from in-depth interviews with five CEOs across diverse sectors, this research identifies common themes around how leaders perceive ecological limits and systemic feedback, and how this shapes long-term strategy formation. Furthermore, the study integrates quantitative simulation using the World3 model to demonstrate the systemic impacts of corporate decisions on pollution, resource depletion, and industrial output over time. The findings suggest that CEOs who are informed by systems thinking, and environmental thresholds are more likely to engage in strategic foresight, invest in resilience, and redefine corporate success beyond short-term profit. The paper contributes to the field by demonstrating the practical relevance of SDM in bridging the gap between theoretical sustainability imperatives and executive-level decision-making. It also offers a conceptual framework for integrating SDM with sustainability governance, highlighting the potential for more adaptive, long-term strategic planning in the face of ecological disruption.
Copyright (c) 2025 Simon Mónika https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
A comparative study of film and series tourism locations in European destinations
In the wake of the restrictions imposed by the coronavirus outbreak, the issue of overtourism has once again come to the fore. The study focuses on destinations that have experienced a notable increase in visitor numbers following the popularity of a film or series filmed there. A case study of three European film and series tourism destinations is presented in order to identify the indications of overtourism. The inhabitants of Dubrovnik, Hallstatt and the two islands of the Sporades (Skopelos and Skiathos) are confronted with a range of challenges associated with the presence of tourists, including congestion, overloaded infrastructure, rising food and property prices, and high environmental pressures. A number of measures have been identified which could assist the municipalities. These include the promotion of public transport as an alternative to private vehicles, with the aim of reducing the environmental impact; the regulation of the mooring of cruise ships and other strategies for managing visitor numbers; and the introduction of online ticketing and advance booking, which could bring significant benefits for visitors and destination management. In order to mitigate the adverse effects of a sudden surge in popularity, destinations that have become well-known due to their cinematic or televisual associations must implement a well-considered tourism strategy. This should entail optimising the number of tourists in the area through a conscious development of attractions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Szőllős-Tóth Andrea, Bujdosó Zoltán, Csapóné Riskó Tünde https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Investigation of Development Opportunities in the Upper Danube Region
The Upper Danube Nature Reserve is located in Vojvodina, bordering Hungary's Duna-Dráva National Park and Croatia's Kopački Rit Nature Park. Three West Bačka settlements—Bezdan, Monostorszeg, and Kupusina—are integral parts of the Upper Danube Nature Reserve. However, the micro-region formed by these three settlements does not belong to a single municipality. According to Serbian law, the Upper Danube Protected Area falls under the management of the Vojvodina Forests Public Enterprise. However, the villages are under the jurisdiction of Apatin Municipality and the City of Sombor, which complicates the unified development of the affected area. In the first part of our work, we focus on reviewing the literature, paying special attention to the foundations and importance of regional development, and briefly defining rural development. Due to the nature of the topic, we also touch on the theory of local economic development. The second and larger part of the article focuses on the process of our own research, specifically on analyzing primary research results (surveys, structured interviews). Based on our findings, we emphasize the significance of civil organizations in local development, as they are the driving forces of social life. Our survey revealed that residents believe it is important to establish a regional center where all information would be accessible. One of the main recommendations was to make better use of the online space.
Copyright (c) 2025 Pelt Ilona, Ritter Krisztián https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Impact of climate change warming on the performance of medium-sized solar power plants
The study focuses on the modelling of medium-sized solar PV systems in three central European cities - Miskolc, Sopron and Veszprém - and the impact of climate change on electricity generation. The analysis is based on the scenarios RCP2.6, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5. The Meteonorm weather database was used to generate input time series for the analyses, while the simulations were performed by the SAM program. The results show that climate change impacts can cause significant variations in the performance of solar PV systems. Increasing temperatures negatively affect the efficiency of the systems, while changes in global radiation are positively correlated with performance. The maximum temperature increase expected under scenarios RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 may reduce the efficiency of power generation, while scenario RCP2.6 shows more stable results. The results of the analysis can provide useful guidance for the design and installation of future solar PV projects, especially to adapt to changing climate conditions. Such studies will contribute to a more efficient use of renewable energy sources to support the energy transition, while also contributing to Hungary's sustainability goals.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bozsik Nándor, Takács István https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Examination of Tourism Development Grants in the NUTS2 regions of Hungary, focus on Northern Hungary
The study examines the territorial aspects of the financial resources allocated to tourism development in Hungary between 2004 and 2020, with special emphasis on the North-Hungary region. The aim of the research is to explore the impact of EU funding on the performance and competitiveness of tourism in Hungary.The results show that the balanced development of Northern Hungary is on a sustainable growth path. Significant growth has been achieved in terms of turnover and capacity utilisation, reflecting the targeted and efficient use of EU funds. At the same time, stagnating indicators of embeddedness point to the need for further infrastructure expansion. Regional comparisons highlight the different development trajectories of the regions, for example, the Central Transdanubia region has shown a balanced performance, while the Northern Great Plain region has underperformed due to a weak demand side. In Western Transdanubia, we have seen an outstanding performance in terms of revenues from spa tourism, but a decline in efficiency indicators, which points to an under-utilisation of resources. The study makes recommendations for strengthening development strategies in underperforming regions, applying ESG principles that put sustainability first, and modernising infrastructure. The results highlight the significant contribution of EU funds to Hungary's tourism development, while underlining the need to further reduce regional disparities and increase the efficiency of resource use.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bujdosó Zoltán, Gyurkó Ádám, Némediné Kollár Kitti https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
A Holistic Examination of Social Housing Dynamics in Johannesburg's Informal Settlements
This study examines the social housing dynamics of Johannesburg's Soweto informal settlements and seeks to address the research question: How do the accessibility, affordability, adequacy of housing and economic aspects impact urban integration and community welfare? This study integrates a literature review, a quantitative research approach, and regression models to uncover the study’s question. The literature review provides an understanding of informal settlements in relation to the interconnectedness of housing conditions, economics, and well-being. This research is quantitative in approach, entailing regression analysis and tables in detail, in an attempt to dissect quantitative factors of urban integration and community well-being. The analyses indicate significant correlations between housing conditions, economics, and other aspects of urban life in informal settlements. Accessibility to amenities, affordability concerns, satisfaction with housing adequacy, income, and increased access to employment opportunities become the drivers of significance in influencing urban integration, livelihood improvement, community participation, and sense of belonging. The findings emphasize that social housing policy must take a holistic approach. Policymakers are advised to tackle the concerns of accessibility, affordability, and adequacy together while promoting income-generation opportunities.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mzuchumile Makalima, Anathi Sokhetye https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Bibliometric Analysis of Adaptation Strategies to Climate Change in European Rural Communities
Climate change presents significant challenges for European rural communities, necessitating robust adaptation strategies to enhance resilience and support sustainable development. This study employs a bibliometric analysis to map the academic landscape surrounding climate change adaptation strategies in European rural areas, identifying key research trends, influential studies, and thematic shifts over time. Using tools such as Biblioshiny and VOSviewer, the study analyses a dataset comprising 291 documents from 158 sources published between 2005 and 2025. The findings reveal key research clusters, country-wise production, total citation per country, prominent journals, and major contributing institutions, highlighting the increasing academic focus on adaptation strategies. The study also examines co-occurrence patterns of keywords, shedding light on dominant themes such as community-based adaptation, resilience, governance, and policy frameworks. Furthermore, it identifies critical research gaps and underscores the importance of integrating policy measures with localized, participatory solutions. By bridging scientific insights with practical applications, this research provides valuable contributions to policymakers, practitioners, and scholars engaged in rural sustainability and climate adaptation efforts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lediane Durmishi, Anthony Cristian Medina Paredes, Tibor Farkas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Regional Distribution and Demographic Impacts of the Housing Allowance Program of the Vojvodina Economic Development Program
The relationship between demographic trends and economic performance has long been a central topic of scientific research. Population changes are determined by the number of births, deaths, and migration. In most developed countries, the birth rate has significantly decreased in recent decades. The population of Vojvodina and its neighboring countries, including Hungary, has been steadily declining in recent decades. This trend is consistent with demographic processes in developed countries worldwide. The aim of the Vojvodina Economic Development Program is providing subsidies to ensure people’s thriving in their homeland, with one of its key elements being home creation allowances linked to economic goals. The study examines the interconnections between demographic data and family support subsidies in Vojvodina, comparing it with population statistics from Hungary, its neighboring countries as well as several other European states. In addition to demographic analyses based on both domestic and international literature, the study briefly reviews the family and home creation allowance systems of Hungary and the Visegrád countries, with a particular focus on measures aimed at retaining population and improving families' housing conditions. The study explores the significance of such grants in terms of improving the demographic situation of communities in the examined areas.
Copyright (c) 2024 Bálint Juhász https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Implication or Validity of the Rebound Effect in Present European Energy Sector
Energy efficiency is one of the most important and global topics which is explored and studied. As a result of those studies, rebound effect has become important phenomenon due to failure of previous energy policies in stabilizing energy consumption levels. Based on rebound effect phenomenon, every energy legislature does not improve energy efficient, on the contrary it creates reverse effects. Recent energy policies are aimed to achieve a successful transition from conventional energy sources to renewables. Meanwhile, environmental challenges have increased the urgency and importance of latest steps. EU governance bodies have ratified several policies in tackling energy problems including rebound effect. This article explores how this phenomenon can result in undesired outcomes by studying possible effects of several variables in final energy consumption levels. These variables have been picked based on the potential impact factors on energy. We will implore desktop secondary research methodology to investigate to what extent EU energy policies have been successful in recent years to achieve energy efficiency. Afterwards, we can answer to our question whether rebound effect phenomenon is actual.
Copyright (c) 2024 Tofig Bayramov, Sabuhi Mammadli https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
International review of the application of SMART technologies and artificial intelligence in the tourism industry and in the spa towns
Smart technologies, including IoT, big data, AI, and digital platforms, are transforming the tourism industry, especially in spa towns. These technologies not only enhance tourist experiences but also promote sustainability and improve the well-being of local communities. The purpose of this study is to explore the current status and future potential impacts of smart technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in the tourism sector, with a focus on spa towns that serve as key hubs for health tourism. The analysis draws on various international examples and case studies, demonstrating the economic, ecological, and social impacts of these technologies.
Copyright (c) 2024 Fejes Judit Katalin , Katits Etelka, Szabó Zoltán https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Complex development analysis of the disadvantaged settlements of the Kistelek district in Southern Hungary
The central theme of the research is a complex study of the disadvantaged settlements of the Kistelek district in the Southern Great Plain. One of the poorest areas of Csongrád-Csanád county was mapped at two points in time (2014 and 2019) to identify the typical economic and social changes. A complex development indicator was used to analyse the economic, social, infrastructural, social and employment situation of the municipalities. The only town in the district, Kistelek, was ranked first on the basis of the complex development indicator. Kistelek is a service-poor district centre, yet it illustrates the centre-periphery relationship in the region. The district is rich in natural and human assets, which, if used wisely, could provide a breakthrough from the unfavourable economic situation. The analysis has led to proposals for solutions to problems relating to land use, rural society and life in the district, and local economic development.
Copyright (c) 2024 Kovács Helga, László Makra, Balázs Duray, Levente Komarek https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
In order to maintain our competitiveness and our foreign trade export surplus, mapping the opportunities and agricultural policy systems of our competitors was of particular importance during the discussion about the future of the CAP after 2020. The aim of the author's research is to provide inputs for the debate on the future of the CAP and the ratification of the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement through a comparative analysis of the CAP and the agricultural policy of the Mercosur. The paper uses the method of critical discourse analysis and complements the document analysis with targeted, semi-structured, in-depth interviews. In his work, the author first examines the political discourse of EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Phil Hogan between 2014-2019 through the analysis of 20 speeches, on the basis of which he shows how in his political speeches Hogan spoke about the role of agriculture in environmental protection and the future of foreign agricultural trade. He briefly reviews the communication of Mercosur’s Working Group No. 8 in nine files on meetings of the working group in the above period too. The author then presents four in-depth interviews he conducted about the current situation of Hungarian, European, and South American agri-environmental protection, its future, and possible directions for development after the free trade agreement. According to its hypothesis, the main reason for the delay in the EU-Mercosur free trade negotiations is that the agricultural policies of the two integrations show very significant differences in terms of environmental protection measures, and this is noticeably reflected in the discourse of the decision-makers responsible for agricultural policy.
Copyright (c) 2024 Báló András https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Examining the possible connections between renewable energy sources and online communication using primary research method
In recent years, the role of renewable energy sources has become a central issue both in the energy sector and public life. This shift can be attributed to geopolitical and economic events, as well as long-term environmental goals. The advance of renewable energy sources has been underway since the 1990s, yet in Hungary, it has only come into the focus of attention and interest in the past few years. This surge in interest is primarily due to skyrocketing energy prices resulting from the energy crisis, but other factors also play a role, such as the currently unyielding interest in "green movements," which have activated public life as much as the erratic energy expenditures have. Our research examines the connection between the energy crisis and the demand for renewable energy sources, as well as analysing the online communication touchpoints, opportunities, and challenges involved, using primary research methods. The research questionnaire was completed by a total of 418 individuals. Our research aimed to identify the internal driving forces affecting consumers' attitudes towards renewable energy sources, and to explore which tools leading to online communication could be used to shape the population's preconceptions and attitudes. According to the results, a significant portion of the sample stated that the energy crisis influenced their decision to opt for renewable energy. More than half of the respondents believe that the energy crisis has made society more open to renewables, and a large part of them, in addition to getting informed about the topic through social media platforms, also follow news and current events related to alternative energy sources through some form of online media consumption. Furthermore, they would be interested in other options that could offer an opportunity to expand their knowledge.
Copyright (c) 2024 Szeberényi András, Fűrész Ágnes https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Nature-based development potential of Cserhát
The Cserhát is rich in natural values, on which its development could build upon. In this article, we assess the natural values perceived by the local stakeholders in the Cserhát and the potential for development based on these values. We conducted semi-structured interviews with mayors as well as with tourism, nature conservation and forestry professionals of the Cserhát, which were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The interviewees mentioned natural values in general (e.g. habitat, special flora and fauna) and other nature-related values (e.g. Rónyai lookout, Pogány fortress). Our results are grouped into two main categories, natural and infrastructure-based developments. We further divided these two main categories into two parts. By natural values development we mean interventions that aim to improve the landscape. Interviewees mentioned the need for controlling big game and the rehabilitation of scarred landscape. Tourism development ideas related to natural values included the construction and improvement of various paths (hiking, cycling, horse riding, greenways). According to the local experts, infrastructure development is essential for the area. Emerged economic development ideas based on natural values would provide livelihood for families (e.g. small businesses or farms). Our fourth part is other economic and infrastructure development, because the majority of the settlements in the Cserhát are facing social and economic problems. In this theme the interviewees mentioned e.g. building nursery, improving accommodation, establishing a processing plant and refrigerated warehouse. For the development of the region, we propose targeted, complex development that builds on the natural values and also responds to social and economic needs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Alexandra Ferencz-Havel, Dénes Saláta, György Orosz, Eszter Tormáné Kovács https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Human capital and job satisfaction in transition economies: a comparative analysis of Hungary and Moldova
Based on survey data, collected in 2021, from 266 respondents (171 from Hungary and 95 from Moldova), this research utilizes statistical methods, including the Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Dunn-Bonferroni post hoc analysis, to examine variations across countries, generations, sectors, and organizational sizes. The results show no significant differences between Hungary and Moldova in the three human capital dimensions - Knowledge, Skills, and Competency - or job satisfaction, indicating the universal relevance of these factors across diverse socio-economic contexts. However, in Moldova, generational differences were observed in Competency levels, with Generation Z scoring lower than older cohorts, while no generational differences were found in Hungary. Sectoral analysis revealed higher job satisfaction among private-sector employees in Hungary compared to the public sector, whereas no such differences were evident in Moldova. Organizational size emerged as a significant factor influencing both human capital dimensions and job satisfaction in both countries. Micro-sized organizations reported the lowest scores, particularly in Moldova, while large organizations in Hungary showed higher levels of satisfaction, driven by better pay, benefits, and working conditions. The study underscores the importance of targeted interventions, such as skills development programs, reforms in the public sector, and tailored support for micro-sized organizations, to enhance employee satisfaction and optimize human capital utilization. These findings offer valuable insights into the relationship between human capital and job satisfaction in transition economies, providing actionable recommendations for policymakers and organizational leaders.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mihaela Ctitor, Csilla Suhajda, Szergej Vinogradov https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Investigation of the migration plans of welding students in Borsod-a_Z county
Dual training is the central part of European vocational educational systems and an important tool for reducing unemployment. The advantage of this form of training is that students can gain the experience and practice at a given workplace, which makes them more competitive in the labour market. The participating companies also benefit from this form of training, as it is effectively a long-term investment. In the past decades, there have been significant differences in development between EU Member States, which have an impact on the emigration intentions of Generation Z. In Hungary, emigration has become a natural process. More than 90% of the welding students we interviewed who are enrolled in dual training courses do not envisage a career in Hungary, but would like to move abroad after obtaining their qualifications. The main reasons for this are financial reasons and better living conditions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Greutter Zoltán Gergely, Vafnóczki Attila József https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Impact of Education on the Innovation Performance in some EU Countries
Innovation is not only of key importance for business strategy, it also determines the competitiveness of the national economy. The successful implementation of innovation processes requires knowledge and skills that must be provided by the nations' educational institutions. Companies need a human resource that is prepared and has the right professional skills to face market challenges successfully in the long term. Current research also shows that the lack of IT skills, knowledge and experience needed to apply new technologies is a major obstacle to the innovation performance of organisations. This paper examines the indicators of the EU Innovation Scoreboard on the use of human resources and information technologies and highlights the key role of education.
Copyright (c) 2024 Bene Andrea, Csernák József https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Demographic and Regional Labour Market Analysis of the Historic Market Towns of Greater Cumania, Hungary
The subject of my research is the study of the settlements with a rural-urban past in the Greater Cumania (Hungarian name of the region: Nagykunság). This historic small region in the Northern Great Plain region is a region with many economic and social problems. My research covers six settlements, all of which have a rural-urban past, but only five of them have city status today: Karcag, Kisújszállás Kunhegyes, Kunszentmárton and Túrkeve. Kunmadaras is a municipality. The focus of my research is on the common economic and cultural heritage of these settlements and their unique development paths. The common economic and cultural heritage is the past as a field town, and the heritage that the Kuns who founded the settlements not only had an administration independent of the county system, a patent status, but also shared a common culture. Grater Cumania as a historical region is no longer a functional unit. Starting from common foundations, the six settlements have responded differently to the challenges of the past decades. The extent to which each of them has successfully responded to the economic and social challenges they have faced is faithfully reflected in their economic and social relations. The aim of my research is, on the one hand, to review the current balance of the settlements with a rural-urban past in Greater Cumania, both individually and in comparison with each other, in order to identify future opportunities, possibilities and threats. On the other hand, my aim is also to examine what the common Greater Cumanian heritage means for the settlements that have taken different development paths and rely on different spatial relations. Can a cultural product, a brand, be built out of it?
Copyright (c) 2024 Mezei Martin, Nagyné Molnár Melinda https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Disparities in Entrepreneurial Orientation and Openness to Innovation Among Budapest, the Pest Region, and Other Regions
Literature studies focusing on entrepreneurial orientation or openness to innovation mainly focus on large enterprises and multinational companies. Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are under-researched in Europe, however, their contribution to employment, balance of trade, and GDP is broadly acknowledged among scholars. Experiences gathered through a qualitative study conducted with owner managers of enterprises of all size categories preceded as well as helped to better establish and design our quantitative survey as recommended in various studies in international literature. This paper aims to examine the disparities in entrepreneurial orientation and openness to innovation between three separate regions in Hungary. Analyses were based on discovering statistically significant differences in terms of the region and the size category of companies. The study applied principal component analyses, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney nonparametric tests.
Copyright (c) 2024 Bujáki János, Vinogradov Szergej https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Employment and mobility in the Budapest labour market catchment area
Nowadays, the impact of global economic and social change is leading to significant regional disparities in many countries. This is reflected in macro-economic performance, living standards, income disparities, education and healthcare standards, which together have a profound impact on the competitiveness of a nation state. These inequalities raise equity concerns, as they can contribute to overall disparities within a country, affect inequalities of opportunity, and are also detrimental to economic efficiency, as the limited opportunities for individuals in disadvantaged spaces can lead to a failure to exploit potential opportunities. In this complex system, cities have an important role to play in the processes of regional disparities, as they perform a variety of functions that are responsible for both quantitative growth and qualitative improvement in the region. In order to examine these contexts, our study analyses the role of Budapest as a centre and its changes over the period 2011-2022, investigating the spatial correlation between employment and mobility, its changes and their expected effects.
Copyright (c) 2024 Balázs Lőrinc; József Káposzta https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The connection between the smart city concept and human resource management, with a special focus on the role of competences and corporate competitiveness
The trend today is that more and more cities are becoming smart. This process can be strengthened if a municipality has a high proportion of well-educated workers with the right competences who can contribute to the excellence of a company by increasing the competitiveness of the organisation and the city. In addition, other economic, environmental and social factors, such as increasing GDP and employment rates, reducing environmental impacts, etc., are necessary to become a smart city. The literature review has clarified the key concepts and highlighted the importance of the topic. Our research has analysed the capital cities of the Visegrad Group in 6 dimensions, using a total of 19 indicators, and has determined their index values per dimension and complexity. The focus of our research was on the people dimension. The aim of this research is to explore the index scores per dimension and the complex index scores of the cities under study. Bratislava scored the highest in this dimension, with Prague coming second. Warsaw came third and Budapest last in the comparison. In terms of the complex index, Bratislava is the smartest of the cities surveyed.
Copyright (c) 2024 Éva Greutter-Gregus, Zoltán Gergely Greutter https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
This study - as a foundation for doctoral research - deals with the examination of Romania's eight develop-ment regions using the method of literature synthesis. The paper provides a brief situational analysis of the current economic and social situation of the development regions. Over the past 10 years, several researchers have examined the territorial and regional inequalities of Ro-mania's eight NUTS 2 level development regions, with most studies focusing on the period between 2000 and 2010. Based on the results, it can be stated that many research methods have been applied by the researchers, but the study period is no longer current, which also underscores the relevance of conducting a regional analysis of Romania. It is important to highlight the fact that these territorial and regional inequalities did not arise as a result of Romania's accession to the European Union but are historically determined. Overall, it can be said that the majority of Romania's development regions will need significant economic de-velopment in the coming years in order to reduce regional inequalities, both at the national and EU levels.
Copyright (c) 2024 Orsolya Varga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Trends in tourism supply and demand in the micro-regions of the Southern Great Plain region
According to the Statistical Office of the European Union (EUROSTAT), the Southern Great Plain region was one of the poorest regions in the European Union in 2022, and tourism development could be one of the breakthrough points. The Southern Great Plain region has a special role for spas and related health tourism, and its rich historical heritage provides a good basis for cultural tourism. The main purpose of the research was to examine the tourism situation in the micro-regions of the Southern Great Plain region, using a complex tourism performance indicator and cluster analysis. Based on the results of the complex tourism performance indicator, the Gyulai micro-region performed the best in the region. The results of the indicator show that tourism is not only concentrated in the tourist areas defined by the government in the region. These micro-region are thus excluded from the target areas for tourism investment. In the future, it would be important to examine the situation of areas that are not included in the defined tourism areas and to integrate them into the tourism target areas, since tourism is a means of balanced development of the areas and can contribute to the convergence of disadvantaged areas.
Copyright (c) 2024 Kovács Helga, Ritter Krisztián, Komarek Levente https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0