Currently, the transition to a circular economy is becoming a development trend of many countries around the world to cope with climate change and reduce carbon emissions. Vietnam is also one of the countries in the process of taking steps to transition to a circular economy. However, to make a successful transition to a circular economy, citizen participation is essential. Thus, the question is, are people ready to participate in the circular economy? Therefore, this study surveyed 431 people regarding their willingness to participate in the circular economy based on the theory of planned behavior and the structural equation model. The results of empirical research have shown that the factors attention to the environment, and attitude towards intention are the factors that have a strong impact on willingness to participate in the circular economy. Based on the given influencing factors, the authors make some policy suggestions for the Vietnamese government in the transition to a circular economy.

Scientific research is the important task of lecturers in universities. However, university lecturers often struggle to balance research and teaching and focus more on teaching than research. In addition, the motivation for lecturers to do research is a little. This article surveys lecturers at some universities in Vietnam to find the factors that motivate lecturers to do science. The motivating factors include intrinsic factors (creativity, passion…), extrinsic factors (financial, promotion ..), and barriers to the scientific research activities of lecturers. Research results show that intrinsic and extrinsic factors positively impact the scientific research activities of lecturers, and the barrier factors negatively affect the research activities of lectures. Based on the research results, the authors make some suggestions to strengthen further the research activities of lecturers at universities in Vietnam.

From 1990 to 2019, Vietnam entered a period of economic growth, attracting foreign investment. However, during this period, CO₂ emissions also increased significantly. This paper will examine the short- and long-term relations of Vietnam’s relationship among FDI, economic growth, and CO₂ emissions based on the data on CO₂, GDP, and FDI of Vietnam in 1990–2019. This article uses the VECM model to test the effect among variables. Research results identify an impact and causal correlation among CO₂ emissions and economic growth and foreign direct investment in Vietnam. Research results show a long-term relationship between CO₂ emissions, GDP, and FDI. The authors did not find a short-run relationship between the above variables. Assessing impacts of CO₂ emissions on economic growth and foreign direct investment will help policymakers make reasonable policies to balance the increase in foreign investment capital and economic growth and reduce CO₂ to achieve the commitment in COP26.

Renewable energy is one of the alternative solutions for today's increasingly depleted energy sources. Solar energy and rooftop solar systems are new developments in many countries, including Vietnam. However, the investment in rooftop solar systems has not yet been implemented uniformly in Vietnam. This article uses the interview survey method by questionnaire to evaluate the factors affecting the investment in rooftop solar systems in some provinces in Vietnam. The research results show that most factors positively impact the intention to invest in rooftop solar systems. The authors will make some policy suggestions from the research results to increase investment in rooftop solar systems in Vietnam and towards environmentally sustainable development.

The marine economy is a vital component of South Africa’s overall economic framework, encompassing a broad range of industries such as fishing, shipping, offshore oil and gas, marine tourism, and aquaculture. Surrounded by extensive coastlines, South Africa is strategically positioned with a vast maritime zone that presents considerable potential for economic expansion. Harnessing this potential through the development of the marine economy is crucial for the nation’s sustainable economic growth. This paper aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the current state of South Africa’s marine economy by examining the performance of its key sectors. It evaluates both the challenges and opportunities faced by the industry, while also discussing the government’s policies and strategies designed to foster sustainable development. One of the key objectives is to shed light on the significant contributions of the marine economy to the national economy, offering a comprehensive understanding of its role and importance. Additionally, the paper will highlight the necessary steps for unlocking the full economic potential of South Africa’s maritime resources. The marine economy not only promises to boost economic output but also to create job opportunities and enhance the nation’s competitiveness on the global stage. By addressing the existing obstacles and exploring innovative solutions, South Africa can build a resilient and thriving marine sector that will contribute to the long-term prosperity of the country.

In a rapidly evolving market context, innovation plays a crucial role in the success of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Vietnam. This study delves into the significance of business innovation, particularly in light of the need for SMEs to cultivate new competitive advantages amidst a growing number of similar competitors. For Vietnamese companies, innovation is not merely an option but a necessity for sustainable growth. This article focuses on exploring the advantages, disadvantages, opportunities, and risks associated with innovation in Vietnamese SMEs.