Blockchain technology is currently one of the trends considered to have a tremendous future ahead. It ensures data security, data sharing protection and automation development—elements that are of colossal importance in the era of cloud solutions, big data and Internet of Things (IoT) reality. Additionally, blockchain technology allows one to create new programmable ecosystems on an unprecedented scale. The implementation of blockchain technology leads not only to improving the flow of documents and data storage, as is the case with the creation of shared service centers (SSCs), but—as this paper shows—allows one to reduce the carbon footprint when servicing SSCs at a considerably higher organizational level at the same time. The example of an SSC in Elbląg, Poland, proves that cloud solutions enabling electronic documents flow and data storage combined with blockchain technology are tools essential for further SSCs development. Furthermore, such tools allow us not only to obtain economic effects (i.e., cost reduction), but also to achieve positive ecological effects (i.e., carbon footprint reduction).

This article characterises theoretical problems regarding the essence and exchange of knowledge between enterprises within the framework of strategic alliances. The objective of the conducted empirical research was to identify the relationships between specific features related to obtaining and sharing knowledge and the specificity of cooperating enterprises and the characteristics of an alliance. We also investigated the relationship between the size of partner enterprises, the duration of an alliance, and the type of innovations implemented as a result of the alliance. We tried to predict the probability of introducing a product, process and organizational innovation depending on the size of the company and duration of the alliance, as well as other variables characterising the company and the knowledge obtaining process. The results indicate that the relationship between the size of enterprises participating in an alliance and a favourable evaluation of the acquisition and sharing of knowledge is closer than in the case of the duration of an alliance. The research results also demonstrate that the correlation between the implementation of innovations and the duration of an alliance is stronger than in the case of the enterprise size. Establishing the relationships between the assumed variables for acquiring and sharing knowledge, as well as considering them in relation with the enterprise size and the alliance duration offer an added value to what has already been achieved in this area.

Environmental protection is currently one of the key priority areas of the European Union (EU). The search for precise tools to assess the impact of the economy, industry, or the production of individual products or services is crucial for an effective and efficient policy in environmental protection. Blockchain technology, originally related to the financial sector and cryptocurrencies, is an innovative solution that is increasingly being implemented by other areas of the economy and industry sectors. The authors reviewed the literature and based on it presented the possibilities and effects of using blockchain technology in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which is in line with the current development trends of this method. The analysis of the research conducted in this area also allowed to present not only the advantages of blockchain in LCA, but also the limitations of this technology and the potential directions of further research.

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to present modern marketing tools used by today’s businesses to maintain or strengthen the value of their brands in the conditions of deteriorating economic situation. The specific purpose is an analysis of activities that might be attempted by companies in emerging markets in order to increase the strength of their brands. Design/methodology/approach: The paper presents the determinants of the development of brand value. An analysis has also been made of activities connected with the development of the brand based on the experience of the best brands in the world. Considerations are based on secondary sources, from national and international journals, books, magazines and specialist reports, as well as were supported by research results of the most valuable brands in the world. Findings: The paper provides the insight of marketing activities, that may favor building brand value in the time of recession. It was suggested that recession may be a good time for some companies to invest in the brand. However, today’s competition conditions are forcing companies to used more modern marketing techniques in order to build a positive brand image. In addition, customers increasingly expect to be able to engage in brand and wish to influence its image. Practical implications: The paper includes implications for companies in emerging markets, through which it is possible to effectively manage brand value in the time of crisis. These proposals are an important course of action for companies from emerging markets, which tend to increase the strength of its brand. Originality/value: Due to the fact that the considerations in the paper relate to general proposals for action, the results can constitute a starting point for in-depth research in the future. An interesting issue would be to assess the effectiveness of the proposed activities in emerging markets.

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is the evaluation of largest corporations' position in the world's economy and the influence of basic knowledge elements on building the competitive potential of the global business leading corporations. The main objective of this research is to analyze the empirical material obtained from Fortune Global 500 corporations, and the impact of basic knowledge elements on building a company's international competitiveness.Design/methodology/approach: The research project incorporated surveys and interviews from the Fortune Global 500 corporations (2003 version).Findings: The findings of the research carried out among the world's business leaders clearly indicate that knowledge management does influence companies' international competitiveness. Functioning in the global economy without efficient management is the same as drifting in a boat with no compass on boundless oceans. However, according to the research outcome, not all knowledge resources are necessary for reaching the purpose. It appears that the key to success is not primarily skilful management of endless knowledge, but the ability of directing activity to those knowledge resources which are critical for the organization's economic operations.Originality/value: The paper examines the influence of basic knowledge elements on building a competitive potential for a corporation and conditions of management that have an impact on competitiveness.

Environmental protection is currently one of the key priority areas of the European Union (EU). The search for effective solutions for the supply and use of energy in cities is currently a key topic. The reduction in gas emissions and the use of renewable energy sources are goals that result from environmental aspects. The purpose of this publication is to conduct a literature review in the area of municipal energy management. Municipal energy management systems integrate many areas, from energy supply systems and the modernization of public transport to the energy demand reduction of residential and commercial facilities. The results of the literature review research have allowed for the classification of articles based on the following criteria: research methodology, research purpose, research data collection method, use of research results article type, and research subject area.