This study examines the dynamic changes in adolescent career development within the context of China, and offers recommendations for parents and children to facilitate communication and for educational institutions to develop effective career guidance programmes. Due to the evolution of societal structures and the ramifications of the pandemic, China is confronted with a dual challenge: an increase in the number of university graduates and a decline in economic activity. Therefore, it is valuable to examine the intrinsic impact of parents on adolescents' career planning in the context of the current challenging circumstances. This can assist adolescents in developing their careers in a healthy manner and in selecting appropriate occupations. This study employed a research design that involved the participation of 20-25-year-old students and their parents in Wenzhou, determining the manner in which parents exert influence over the dynamic development of children's career aspirations and expectations. The study employed six pre-established themes for comprehensive examination: socioeconomic status, parent occupation, parenting style, parental expectations, 2 gender socialization, and career values. This study includes a total of 24 participants, comprising 15 families of students and their parents. The study reveals that family socioeconomic status is the primary determinant of the other five themes. A parent's socioeconomic status serves as a foundation for subsequent career-related behaviours, including the provision of parental support, the establishment of parental expectations, and the transmission of parental values. A paucity of information regarding careers constrains parents' comprehensive understanding of such matters, thereby engendering misapprehensions and opposition to their offspring's investigation of such careers. Furthermore, this study indicates that parents exert considerable influence over their children's career planning in China. In the absence of perceived parental support, adolescents are more likely to abandon their career aspirations and turn to their parents' expectations.

Since 2021, amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, a novel economic phenomenon has quietly emerged in urban settings. In the spaces between office buildings, outside commercial districts, along riverbanks, and beside squares, rows of car trunks meticulously transformed into unique mini-shops have become a common sight. These “car boot sales,” or “trunk markets[MM1] ,” typically operate after sunset, offering a blend of everyday life and artistic flair, creating a self-healing space nurtured by the city itself. Since 2022, car boot sales have gained significant traction on Chinese social media platforms like Xiaohongshu, with over 80,000 posts tagged “car boot sales” and related videos amassing over 1.5 billion views on TikTok. Car boot sales in China represent a fusion of “street stalls,” “night markets,” and the traditional “car boot sales” originating in the UK during the last century[MM2] . While UK car boot sales are typically daytime events held on summer weekends, featuring second-hand goods, the Chinese version is predominantly a nighttime activity selling a wide range of first-hand items such as snacks, drinks, handmade crafts, and trendy toys (Greene & Storey, 2010). The 2 participants in these markets often include young people, distinguishing them from traditional street vendors and night market sellers. They might be freelancers, shop owners, or office workers engaging in side businesses. Many have interests in off-roading, coffee culture, or trendy collectables, and they frequently use social media for promotion. Despite the rapid rise and popularity of car boot sales, comprehensive research on their impact on vendors’ social livelihood and wellbeing is still lacking (Hobbs, 2022). Car boot sales in China closely relate to the informal economy and night economy, sharing characteristics of irregularity and nocturnality (Huang et al., 2020). Research on informal employment has explored motivations and influencing factors, focusing on macro-level characteristics while neglecting microlevel perspectives such as individual behaviours and values (Huang, 2009). Studies on street vending and mobile vendors primarily address government regulation and social integration, lacking an in-depth examination of individual vendor behaviours (Huang et al., 2022). Similarly, research on the night economy highlights cultural and recreational aspects from the consumer and spatial perspectives, but few scholars have delved into the traits (Farrer, 2018). Existing studies have predominantly focused on economic aspects, often overlooking the social dimensions that are crucial in shaping vendors’ experiences (Crewe & Gregson, 1998). This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the motivations behind vendors’ participation in car boot sales, their impact on social livelihood, and the role of social networks and relationships formed in these markets. The concept of social livelihood encompasses various facets of an individual’s life, including economic stability, social relationships, and psychological wellbeing (Sakdapolrak, 2014). Previous research on informal economies suggests that participation in such markets can significantly impact these areas. Social capital, derived from networks and relationships, is pivotal to individuals’ 3 economic activities and overall wellbeing (Monger, 1990). However, there is a dearth of research specifically examining car boot sales through this lens. Shenzhen’s unique development as a reform pioneer, high urban mobility and renewal, and diverse vendor population make its car boot markets an ideal case study for this research. This study seeks to understand the broader social implications of car boot sales, addressing the existing gap in the literature by examining the motivations, impacts, and social networks associated with these markets. By investigating these dimensions, the research aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how car boot sales affect vendors’ lives, offering valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. The primary objectives of this study are to identify the motivations and factors behind vendors’ decisions to enter car boot sales, assess the impact of car boot sales on vendors’ social livelihood, and examine how social networks and relationships formed at car boot sales influence business success and community integration. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, this study employs in-depth interviews and observations to gather data. The research design includes selecting a diverse sample of vendors, conducting semistructured interviews, and analyzing the data using thematic analysis while adhering to ethical considerations such as confidentiality and informed consent. The central thesis of this study posits that participation in car boot sales significantly impacts vendors’ social livelihood and well-being. This impact is mediated by the social networks and relationships formed within these markets, contributing to vendors’ business success, community integration, and overall quality of life. This paper is structured as follows: Chapter 2 provides a detailed review of existing research on social livelihood, informal economies, and social capital theory. Chapter 3 describes the research design, data collection methods, and analytical approach. Chapter 4 presents the findings of the study, organized by the research 4 questions and themes identified during the analysis. Chapter 5 interprets the findings, discussing their implications for theory, practice, and policy. Chapter 6 summarizes the key findings, contributions of the study, and suggestions for future research. By examining the social aspects of car boot sales, this study aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of how these markets affect vendors’ lives, providing valuable insights for future research and policy formulation. [MM1]Chinese names here [MM2]A bit too vague

This research project aims to investigate gender dynamics and occupational segregation within the field of Human Resources (HR) in Shunde. The primary objective is to understand the barriers women encounter in their career advancement within the HR profession, particularly focusing on factors such as social norms, leadership dynamics, and educational backgrounds. Through a comprehensive literature review, the study will explore existing theories and empirical evidence related to gender inequality, feminization trends, and women's advancement in HR fields globally, with a specific emphasis on the Chinese context. The research seeks to uncover the underlying causes of vertical and horizontal occupational gender segregation within HR, shedding light on how these phenomena manifest in recruitment, promotion, and leadership opportunities for women.Using a mixedmethods approach, including surveys and interviews, the project aims to gather insights from both HR professionals and organizational leaders. Surveys will provide quantitative data on factors influencing promotion pathways and career trajectories for women in HR, while interviews will offer in-depth qualitative perspectives on lived 2 experiences, challenges, and perceptions of gender dynamics within the profession. By triangulating these findings, the study intends to offer a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of gender inequality in HR under a Chinese background.The findings of this study will have practical implications for HR practitioners, organizational leaders, and policymakers, offering insights into strategies for promoting gender diversity, fostering inclusive workplace cultures, and addressing systemic barriers to women's career advancement in HR. Ultimately, the research endeavours to advocate for gender equality and empower women within the HR profession, thereby promoting more equitable and sustainable organizational practices in China and beyond.

The research focuses on the experiences of Chinese Generation Z (born between 1996 and 2005) females. The purpose of this study is to explore the perceptions and attitudes towards BL dramas and web series. The study seeks to understand their role in shaping women's consciousness and challenging gender perceptions. In addition, this study aims to analyse the dynamics of community building and interaction among Chinese Gen Z women in online spaces dedicated to BL dramas. Examining how these dramas provide heterotopias for this demographic offers them alternative spaces for exploration and expression. The feminist perspective issue will be considered and discussed. Ultimately, this study aims to explore the potential impact and future trends of overseas BL dramas on this population's media consumption habits and cultural identities, providing valuable insights into the evolving gender representations and cultural consumption in contemporary China.

This dissertation investigates the growth trajectories and prosperity of individuals born in mixed-orientation marriages (IBMOMs) in contemporary China, aiming to uncover how these family structures impact their lived experiences and overall happiness. Through qualitative analysis of in-depth interviews with IBMOMs, the study explores their emotional experiences, coping mechanisms, family dynamics, and prosperity strategies on their life trajectories. The research identifies that IBMOMs’ emotional responses are significantly influenced by the timing of their parents’ LGBQ identity disclosures and the nature of parental relationships. And heterosexual spouses’ long-term psychological state often leads to profound distress for IBMOMs, affecting the formation of their selfidentity and views on interpersonal relationships. Additionally, the study highlights that supportive family environments, effective coping strategies, and economic stability are crucial for IBMOMs’ prosperity. Finally, the dissertation advocates for broader societal reforms, including the legalization of LGBQ marriages and improved public understanding of LGBQ 2 issues, to reduce the challenges faced by IBMOMs and promote a more inclusive society.

Ageing China, as one of the most significant and profound social topics, has sparked tremendous discussions in the academic field. Facing the surging and irreversible ageing trend, China is promoting community-based eldercare nationwide, which is widely named ‘the last one kilometre’. Beijing has also made its own attempts under national guidance. This dissertation is to evaluate Beijing’s practice through a mixed methodology: horizontal comparative review of Italy, the United States and Japan’s relatively mature eldercare system from a macro view and focus group interviews of two chosen communities in Beijing from a micro view to generate a comprehensive analysis. As a result, Beijing’s design can be concluded as a three-levels eldercare network with public-private partnership (PPP) cooperation as the main pattern under the leadership of the government. Regarding the elderly people’s perceptions, although price and family as the most sensitive and valued aspects of elderly people have been satisfied, and most of them expressed positive attitudes towards Beijing’s practice, some of their demands present diverse and non-uniform characteristics and are hard-to-meet through unified design. In the end, this dissertation suggests that 2 sustainable eldercare and higher prosperity for elderly people can be achieved through grass-roots empowerment and rent-seeking behavior prevention. The contribution of this dissertation is that it innovatively combines macro theoretical analysis with micro interviews, ensuring the systematic, comprehensive and practical value of the research, f illing the academic gap and providing valuable theoretical and methodological references for future research.

Characterised as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, AI is envisioned to reshape urban socio-technical interactions and drive solutions to the world’s ‘grand challenges.’ Despite this foresight, there is an absence of qualitative studies that critically engage with the intersection between AI, sustainable development, cities, and the Global South. This represents an urgent research gap due to the synonymity of ‘digitalisation-asurbanisation’ in the Global South, the acceleration of urban AI deployment, and the international pursuit of the SDGs. Through primary interviews with scholars and corporate AI technologists and secondary case study research, this thesis addresses the question of AI’s impact on urban inclusion and urban environmental sustainability. Based on primary, qualitative data analysis, this paper’s thematic data map establishes the key determinants of AI’s impact on sustainable urban development in the Global South as follows: Access, Representation, Privacy, Experimentation vs Regulation, Agency and Efficiency. These primary findings were then mobilised to analyse secondary case studies of urban AI deployment for security, urban planning, citizen services, 2 and DRM across Global South cities (e.g. Johannesburg, Hyderabad, and Buenos Aires). In terms of urban inclusion, this paper concludes that AI in its current form risks the exacerbation of preexisting social injustices due to data and infrastructural inequity and unethical surveillance practices that impacts urban service provision and spatial access. In terms of urban environmental sustainability, this paper argues that AI’s capacity for innovative urban climate action will only be sustainable if its carbon and water footprint is proactively addressed and the digital divide is bridged.

The increasing feminisation of migrant labour in Taiwan has significantly shaped the socio-cultural landscape of Southeast Asian Female Migrant Workers (FMWs). This study investigates the gendered dimensions of remittance-sending amongst FMWs in Taiwan, with a focus on how these practices shape social positions, identities, and subjectivities within the contexts of feminised migration and gendered division of labour. While existing research often emphasises the economic functions of remittances, there remains a gap in understanding the intertwined sociocultural and gendered factors that affect these practices. Grounded in a mixedmethod approach combining quantitative surveys and in- depth qualitative interviews with Southeast Asian FMWs workers, mostly Filipino caregivers eventually, this research highlights how economic motivations intersect with socio-cultural factors, revealing remittances as both financial support and a means of fulfilling familial obligations. The findings emphasise the dual role of remittances: they empower FMWs by enabling them to exercise agency within traditional gender roles, while 2 simultaneously perpetuating certain socio-cultural norms. The study also identifies challenges such as financial insecurity, limited resources, and systemic barriers, underscoring the complexity of autonomy in managing remittances, which is shaped by gender relations and transnational support networks. Despite these challenges, the study shows how remittance practices contribute to both social mobility and the reinforcement of existing power dynamics. The research’s limited and purposive sample constrains broader generalisations but offers crucial insights into the intersection of migration, gender, and financial flows in Taiwan’s labour context. These findings suggest the need for policy interventions that better support migrant women, ensuring their contributions are fully recognised and fostering equitable conditions for their socio-economic advancement.

African nations have some of the world’s worst outcomes on Reproductive, Maternal, Neonatal and Child Health (RMNCH) indicators such as mortality rates, therefore strengthening the delivery of RMNCH continues to take priority on Africa’s public health agenda. However, Africa's health system is generally underfunded and while it is mostly financed from out-of-pocket payments from households, government spending and external funding, research evidence shows that greater mobilization of domestic funding is the more sustainable pathway to fund RMNCH in African nations. In order for African nations to step up domestic resource mobilization (DRM) for RMNCH, they need a data-driven picture of the landscape of local funding sources for RMNCH but there is a deficiency of quality data on domestic funding sources for RMNCH at the local level within African nations. As seen with the more successful tracking of foreign aid, rigorous domestic tracking can be profitable for providing important information on the state of existing local funding sources and inform further innovative financing strategies to improve funding and expenditure 2 inadequacies for RMNCH. Needless to say, financial constraints, lacking statistical capacity, and political factors are some formidable challenges preventing African governments from investing in tracking DRM (Mann et al., 2016; Faye et al., 2020) . This systematic review will help to identify African nations who are tracking DRM for RMNCH and the types of funding sources being engaged. Furthermore, the findings of this systematic review can inform evidenced decision-making and policy design concerning DRM strategies; highlight gaps and areas for further research; and demonstrate the importance of tracking domestic financing for improving health outcomes in African nations as an advocacy tool for greater mobilization. Mann, C., Ng, C., Akseer, N., Bhutta, Z. A., Borghi, J., Colbourn, T., Hernández-Peña, P., Huicho, L., Malik, M. A., MartínezÁlvarez, M., Munthali, S., Salehi, A. S., Tadesse, M., Yassin, M. A., & Berman, P. (2016). Countdown to 2015 Country Case Studies: What Can Analysis of National Health Financing Contribute to Understanding MDG 4 and 5 Progress? BMC Public Health. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-016- 3403-4Faye, C., Wehrmeister, F. C., Melesse, D. Y., Mutua, M. K., Maïga, A., Taylor, C. M., Amouzou, A., Jiwani, S. S., Silva, I. C. M. da, Sidze, E., Porth, T., Cá, T., Ferreira, L. Z., Strong, K., Kumapley, R., Carvajal-Aguirre, L., Hosseinpoor, A. R., Barros, A. J. D., & Boerma, T. (2020). Large and Persistent Subnational Inequalities in Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Intervention Coverage in Sub-Saharan Africa. BMJ Global Health. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjgh-2019- 002232

This dissertation is a theoretical exploration of whether economic methodology should shift from reductionism in traditional economic thinking on welfare to a “macro” approach, i.e. one that is based on aggregate outcomes which cannot be fully explained through reductionist perspectives of individual behaviours. Welfare economics is dominated by mainstream thinking based on reductionist perspectives of individual behaviours. Such perspectives form the basis of fundamental concepts in welfare economics yet have substantial limitations and deviate from what is measured and applied in the real world. Economics has consequences for real people, and a business-as-usual approach should not continue. Other theories beyond fundamental concepts, such as those on achieving efficiency in a world where distortions exist, social contexts affecting economic outcomes, alternate ways of evaluating economic policy, and debates on equity, highlight important elements not adequately addressed by traditional thinking in welfare economics. An alternative methodology is desired. A macro approach, i.e. one that is based on aggregated outcomes rather than reductionism, is advocated. Macro 2 concepts can be informed by theories on complex systems, human agency and alternate ontological frameworks. This is an exciting area for the future of economic thinking.

My work focuses on the barriers to access to justice and the the drivers of street justice in Nigeria. I have engaged with secondary data like the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, statutes, journal articles, court judgments, books, international documents, newspapers, and so on, to examine the effectiveness of the judicial and legal processes and the factors encourage the resort to street justice. The work evaluated the inherent circumstances of the courts in Nigeria and the conditions of the justice seekers that make access to justice almost an impossibility. The judicial mechanism of dispute settlement does not often meet the justice needs of individuals and some people have become inclined to seek justice by other means outside courts. From the findings, recommendations were put forth to inform choices as well as seek avenues for improvement.

This study examines the impact of four major acquisitions related to renewable energy on the stock value of Total Energies (TE). A mixed method approach was adopted, combining qualitative analysis to understand the drivers behind these acquisitions and generate hypotheses about the impact of acquisition events on stock prices, followed by an event study approach to examine abnormal returns on the company's stock price in the short and long term. Findings indicate that, in the short term, these acquisitions resulted in positive returns for TE indicating that the market recognised TE's transformation efforts, but the long-term results were mixed, which may be due to model and data limitations. The study also identified the key role of market forces in driving the energy transition and the importance of synergies and diversification of technology paths in constructing a longterm energy transition strategy. By conducting a clinical study focused on a specific energy company, this research aims to provides in-depth insights and valuable guidance for other companies in the sector on using M&A to facilitate energy transitions, thereby supporting the green transformation of the energy industry.

This study focuses on the role of ClimateSmart Agriculture (CSA) in rural economic development in China and its impact on sustainable innovation. Under the dual pressures of global climate change and food security, CSA has gained widespread attention as a comprehensive strategy that enhances agricultural productivity, strengthens climate resilience, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. As a major agricultural country, China has extensively implemented CSA through policy promotion and technological innovation, fostering sustainable agricultural development and diversification of rural economies. However, the promotion of CSA in China still faces challenges such as regional resource disparities, high implementation costs, and difficulties in disseminating technologies. By analyzing the implementation of CSA in different regions of China, this study explores its impact on rural livelihoods, environmental sustainability, and economic growth, aiming to fill existing research gaps and provide empirical support for policy-making. The study contributes to achieving China's longterm goals of sustainable agriculture and rural development.

This dissertation is a theoretical exploration of whether economic methodology should shift from reductionism in traditional economic thinking on welfare to a “macro” approach, i.e. one that is based on aggregate outcomes which cannot be fully explained through reductionist perspectives of individual behaviours. Welfare economics is dominated by mainstream thinking based on reductionist perspectives of individual behaviours. Such perspectives form the basis of fundamental concepts in welfare economics yet have substantial limitations and deviate from what is measured and applied in the real world. Economics has consequences for real people, and a business-as-usual approach should not continue. Other theories beyond fundamental concepts, such as those on achieving efficiency in a world where distortions exist, social contexts affecting economic outcomes, alternate ways of evaluating economic policy, and debates on equity, highlight important elements not adequately addressed by traditional thinking in welfare economics. An alternative methodology is desired. A macro approach, i.e. one that is based on aggregated outcomes rather than reductionism, is advocated. Macro concepts can be informed by theories on complex systems, human agency and alternate ontological frameworks. This is an exciting area for the future of economic thinking.

This dissertation investigates the gendered impact of Basic Income(BI) on empowerment in Finland, utilizing an expanded empowerment index and an intersectional approach. The research challenges contrasting theories surrounding UBI's effects on women's empowerment: some argue that UBI reinforces traditional gender roles, while others suggest it enhances women's autonomy. The study addresses two key questions: how UBI affects a comprehensive empowerment index across genders, and what intersectional factors influence this impact in Finland. Drawing from the 2017-2018 Finnish Basic Income experiment, this study develops an expanded empowerment index that includes various dimensions such as life satisfaction, health, mental well-being, cognitive function, social capital, and meaningful work. The study examines responses from the UBI-treated group (n = 569) and a control group (n = 1,028), employing χ² statistics and regression analyses to evaluate the effects of UBI on empowerment across various intersectional categories, including age, education, household composition, income, and urbanization. Our findings, consistent with previous research (Kangas et al., 2023), indicate that UBI can equally enhance individual empowerment for both men and women. However, our intersectional analysis reveals nuanced variations in empowerment outcomes based on factors such as age, education and household composition. Notably, a marginally significant three-way interaction between treatment, gender, and household composition suggests that UBI's impact may vary depending on family structure, partially supporting theories regarding UBI's potential to alter traditional gender roles. This research underscores the importance of considering intersectional factors in UBI policy design and evaluation, contributing to the ongoing debate about UBI's role in promoting gender equality and empowerment through nuanced, context-specific approaches.

The design field is in a constant state of evolution, driven by the development of frameworks, methodologies, and tools that shape the products, services, and technologies we use daily. Among these, Human-Centred Design has become one of the most influential frameworks in recent decades, focusing on placing people at the core of the design process by prioritising their needs and experiences through a collaborative, empathetic approach. While this model has proven invaluable in creating solutions that enhance people's lives and boost user engagement, it has faced criticism for its narrow focus on individual well-being, often overlooking the wider social and environmental impacts on the ecosystem. In response, Humanity-Centred Design has emerged, expanding the design lens to include environmental and social considerations that tackle broader global challenges. This study delves into how Transformative Enterprises, which aim to address pressing global issues, implement the Humanity-Centred Design model. Through a multiple-case study of two start-ups promoting eco-conscious consumption, the research identifies key differentiating strategies such as diversifying stakeholders for a more inclusive design process, leveraging enablers of behavioural change, setting mission-driven metrics for decisionmaking, and adopting marketing and positioning strategies that raise awareness, foster community engagement, and communicate their mission in innovative ways. These findings lay a critical foundation for the practical implementation of the Humanity-Centred Design model, bridging the gap between theory and practice by offering a more inclusive and transformative approach to the design process.

My dissertation analyzes the impact of bicycle thefts on the choice of cycling as a mode of transportation among recreational cyclists. I used quantitative research methods to address two main questions: How does the experience or perception of bicycle theft influence individuals' willingness to choose bicycles as a mode of transportation? And what prevention methods are perceived by recreational cyclists as most effective in reducing bike thefts and thereby encouraging their decision to cycle? In addition to answering the main research questions, the work provides a unique profile of recreational cyclists in London

This study aims to critically examine the influence of income, age, and gender on individuals' intentions to adopt sustainable technological solutions in the fields of energy and transportation in Morocco, UAE, and Israel.

This study aims to contribute to the literature on transformative entrepreneurship (TE) within the UAE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) by assessing the framework conditions and variables that hamper or advance TE in relation to SDG 12. 1. To identify the roles of the key actors within the UAE’s EE in developing TE.2. To investigate the challenges faced by transformative entrepreneurs in UAE in relation to promoting responsible consumption and production.3. To map out the opportunities for transformative entrepreneurs towards aligning operations to responsible consumption and production.

This dissertation explores the role of incubators and accelerators in supporting start-up resilience and growth within the volatile economic environment of Pakistan. By applying ecosystem theory, the study examines how these entities provide essential services, such as mentorship, funding, and access to networks, to help entrepreneurs navigate economic challenges. Through qualitative research, the dissertation identifies the effectiveness of different types and sizes of incubators in fostering entrepreneurial success. The findings offer valuable insights for practitioners, investors, and academics, contributing to the development of more robust support structures for start-ups in developing economies

Entrepreneurship has been widely adopted as a policy to support migrants, yet the focus on its economic benefits has overshadowed its socio-cultural impacts. This dissertation, drawing on acculturation theory and social identity theory, explores the effects of being an entrepreneur on the identity reconstruction of post-2019 Hong Kong (HK) migrants in the UK. While existing literature often portrays identity as a static concept that founders draw upon to shape their ventures, this study argues that there is a reciprocal relationship between entrepreneurship and identity. Through semi-structured interviews with 12 HK migrant entrepreneurs and participant observation at three cultural festivals, it is found that while their ventures are influenced by multiple identities, including whether they identify more as Hongkongers or British, entrepreneurship also serves as a sociocultural learning process for migrants to construct their new identity. This occurs typically through three mechanisms: (i) relationship building, (ii) emotional attachment and (iii) customer feedback. Additionally, the findings suggest that entrepreneurship empowers migrants to enact their agency and mitigate acculturative stress, eventually improving their overall well-being. This study contributes to the fields of entrepreneurship and migrant studies in three key ways: first, it emphasises the reciprocal nature of the relationship between entrepreneurship and migrant identity construction; second, it broadens the understanding of migrant entrepreneurship by focusing on its socio-cultural, not just economic, outcomes; and third, it provides empirical evidence of how post-2019 HK migrants redefine their identity through entrepreneurship, offering valuable insights for future research on migrant entrepreneurship and the evolving identity of the HK diaspora.

The proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) systems offers significant benefits but also presents considerable global risks. Despite the international nature of these risks, an internationally accepted governance framework for AI remains absent. This is largely due to geopolitical tensions and the lack of consensus among major global powers on the appropriate scope and methods for regulating AI development. The European Union (EU), China, and the United States are key players in AI regulation, each with divergent approaches. However, common themes can be identified to form the foundation of a global regulatory framework aimed at both managing risks and fostering innovation. This dissertation conducts a comparative analysis of AI regulations in the EU and China and examines the implications for the development of a global AI governance framework. Using deductive thematic analyses, the study explores the convergences and divergences in their regulatory approaches. While differences arise from China’s emphasis on socialist values, national security, minimal focus on individual rights, and geopolitical rivalry with the United States, there are areas of alignment. These include the categorisation of AI systems, safety measures, human-centric design, transparency, professional responsibility, privacy, and accountability. The study concludes that these shared regulatory principles could serve as a foundation for the development of a multilevel global AI framework. Such a framework should incorporate international, national, and industry-level governance with clearly defined outcomes and responsibilities. The United Nations, as a politically legitimate global forum with broad influence, including among China, is well-positioned to lead this effort.

ReFi has emerged as an ecological movement and alternative financial system to accelerate the transition from an extractive to a regenerative economy. By integrating advanced technologies like blockchain with regenerative principles, ReFi seeks to create transparent and inclusive NbS, from agroforestry to wildlife restoration. A core principle of ReFi is to promote holistic approaches that address multiple impact dimensions beyond carbon offsetting, including biodiversity protection and community development. To achieve this, ReFi practitioners emphasise decentralised, bottom-up approaches that ensure equitable economic and social benefits for all stakeholders involved in climate resilience efforts. Despite these ambitious objectives and emerging global attention on ReFi, a significant research gap remains regarding its effectiveness, particularly in biodiversity-rich countries with large rural and Indigenous populations, such as Colombia. This study addresses this gap by comparing ReFi’s theoretical propositions, established through a literature review, with empirical evidence from a comparative case study of six ReFi initiatives operating in Colombia. The data obtained from semi-structured interviews with founders and practitioners provides valuable insights into the movement’s current state, significant challenges, and opportunities to progress. The research reveals that while ReFi has transformative potential for creating participatory solutions for planetary regeneration, it remains in its infancy and faces structural implementation and scalability barriers. These challenges are primarily linked to negative perceptions of cryptocurrency and Web3, the dominance of traditional carbon market entities, and difficulties in translating regenerative principles and technologies into actionable, grassroots solutions that communities can widely adopt.

This dissertation explores the persistent underrepresentation and challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in the investment landscape. In the United Kingdom, women-led ventures receive significantly less funding than their counterparts who identify as men, perpetuating a gender funding gap. The research specifically investigates the experiences of UK-based women founders during their fundraising journeys, with a focus on identifying coping strategies they employ in this highly competitive men-dominated environment. Seven semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with women founders who had completed at least one funding round. The findings reveal that women founders frequently encounter negative experiences with investors, including belittlement, heightened scrutiny, hostile sexism, and sexual advances. To navigate these challenges, women founders primarily adopt a set of different coping strategies, including behavioural strategies, such as altering their communication styles, and meticulous preparation to deflect attention from their gender identity. A set of mental and communal strategies is also identified, whereby women founders use to persevere and successfully raise funding for their companies. The research is framed within a feminist theoretical perspective, utilizing the concept of neoliberal stigma-power (Tyler and Slater, 2018) to contextualize the structural barriers faced by women founders. The study concludes that while women founders are resourceful, the investment landscape remains deeply biased and needs systemic change to create a more fair and equitable environment. The findings contribute to the limited body of research on gender, women, and investment, highlighting the need for increased gender diversity in investment committees and a reevaluation of how success is entrepreneurial world.

Social entrepreneurship is a field of entrepreneurship praised for its potential to solve complex social problems by harnessing the power of enterprise. However, it is this very complexity that causes social entrepreneurs to walk a narrow line of conflicting priorities of mission and profit while navigating complicated cultural and economic landscapes. This precariousness makes the possibility of failure high, and the social aspect makes the stakes should an enterprise fail that much higher. This dissertation begins with a new premise for social entrepreneurship that views social enterprise as an interpretive endeavor where the mission of the enterprise is the text, the entrepreneur the interpreter, and the target community the author. This project then seeks to define a hermeneutic (interpretive) framework for social entrepreneurs by first investigating the relevance of hermeneutic factors in social enterprise success, and subsequently how research of social entrepreneurial failure can be improved

This dissertation aims to analyze the strategies and practices employed by marketplace and omni-channel startups to implement sustainable business models (SBM) through case studies of several companies. By examining their experiences in-depth, this study will identify the challenges these startups encounter in integrating SBM and assess the impact of entrepreneurial ecologies on this process. The findings will provide practical recommendations to guide other enterprises in developing and integrating sustainable business models.

As a response to the failure of existing international systems to address escalating environmental challenges and social inequalities, the need for innovative bottom-up approaches capable of driving transformative change is evident. This empirical study investigates the decision-making processes of social entrepreneurs (SEs) in the creation of community enterprises (CEs). Social entrepreneurs, characterised by their dual focus on social and economic goals, play a crucial role in addressing socioeconomic challenges at the community level. By conducting think-aloud verbal protocols (TAVPs) with founders of successful social enterprises, eight guiding principles were identified, such as Soil and Seed, Fortress of Tomorrow, Community: the Expert’s Compass, Umbrella of Confidence, Collective Prosperity Wave and Be Square, and Butterfly Effect. These principles constitute the framework which highlights how SEs balance community needs, innovation, and long-term sustainability. This dissertation contributes to the field of social entrepreneurship by proposing a decision-making framework specific to the creation of CEs, providing insights for both practitioners and policymakers on fostering sustainable community development.

Aim/Purpose: This dissertation examines the impact of social capital on high-value-added immigrant entrepreneurship, focusing on how networking, interpersonal trust, and institutional trust shape entrepreneurial activities in advanced sectors. Research Design/Methodology: The study utilises a longitudinal ethnographic approach and semi-structured interviews to gather insights from high-value-added immigrant entrepreneurs, followed by thematic analysis and inductive multiplecase study to identify key patterns. Findings: The research highlights the critical role of social capital, particularly the importance of weak ties and horizontal networking in operational support, interpersonal trust in establishment, and institutional trust in strategic decisions across borders. Contributions: This study advances the understanding of how social capital influences high-value-added immigrant entrepreneurship, offering insights into the mechanisms behind networking and trust in immigrant entrepreneurial contexts. Keywords: Social Capital, Immigrant Entrepreneurship, HighValue-Added, Networking, Trust, Ethnography

This dissertation investigates the phenomenon of mission drift with a focus on identifying its sources and mitigation strategies. Mission drift – a deviation of social enterprises from their original social mission and identity in pursuit of financial sustainability - is a significant challenge, particularly for younger organizations. Existing research provides a strong foundation, but there is a need for fresh perspectives on how mission drift occurs in various contexts, such as market, culture, and societal complexities, and how it is experienced by product-oriented versus serviceoriented enterprises. Most studies have focused on older, more established organizations, leaving a gap in understanding mission drift in newer social enterprises. This research explores this gap by examining two key questions: the factors contributing to mission drift and the strategies implemented to mitigate or address this risk. Employing qualitative methods, including semistructured interviews with founders of UK-based social enterprises, yields nuanced findings based on participants' backgrounds and experiences. By applying institutional theory and organizational theory, this dissertation identifies novel factors that lead to mission drift and new strategies for maintaining mission integrity. This dissertation offers new theoretical and practical insights, advancing the field of social entrepreneurship by providing fresh insights and strategies to counteract mission drift

This study takes Nanjing's night markets as the research object. Through observation, interviews and focus groups, and combined with data provided by relevant departments, this study analyses the role of Nanjing's night markets in employment, individual income and the city's overall economy; and discusses the existing challenges and how to promote their sustainable development.

Food security has been a major concern in India. In 2022, the Global Food Security Index ranked India at 68th out of the 113 major countries in terms of food security. In 2023, the Global Hunger Index ranked India at 111th out of 125 countries, exacerbated by factors such as population growth, climate change, and resource constraints. In response, startups are emerging as key players in developing innovative and sustainable solutions to address food security challenges. This dissertation investigates the role of startups in promoting sustainability and tackling food security issues in India. By analysing current trends, challenges, and opportunities, the study aims to identify entrepreneurial solutions that can contribute to enhancing food security while ensuring environmental and social sustainability. Through case studies, interviews, surveys, analysis of existing policies, collecting and analysing quantitative data on key indicators related to food security, such as agricultural productivity, food distribution networks, and access to nutritious food, to assess the effectiveness of startup interventions and to gain the deep insights into the entrepreneurial ecosystem of the food industry. Through the analysis of industry dynamics and other quantitative and qualitative data using a thematic analysis framework and other relevant statistical software, this research provides in-depth actionable insights for startups, policymakers, and stakeholders to foster sustainable entrepreneurship in the Indian food sector and improve food security outcomes.

Local governments can be a force for good or bad within poverty governance and distribution systems depending on the political will present within the local elite as well as the government structure in which these elites operate. One thing that can enhance structural bargaining power is knowledge production, which can lead to an increase in citizens' and political elites’ respective capabilities to achieve more. This study aims to shed light to the perspectives of local government actors in the context of distributive politics, poverty governance and endogenous development potentials by assessing the political will present within local governments in Türkiye upon measuring and assessing poverty through the Multidimensional Poverty Index using a triangulation method with two distinct data streams and three blocks for analysis: legal documents concerning the playing field of the local governance as well as interviews conducted from either main parties for understanding to understand how people on the ground operate them. The research aims to contribute to wider debates around decentralisation for good governance, while also assessing localised developments’ limits. The research proposes that electoral success, political ideology, political objectives can lead to vastly different interpretations of local government’s purpose, jurisdiction and intersection and thus yield in different views on local knowledge production and utilization to overcome poverty and increase citizens’ capabilities.

his dissertation mainly analyzes the influence of China's tourism industry on the development of the cities in which it is located, focusing on the influencing factors that affect consumers' purchase intention. Taking Nanjing Fuzimiao scenic spot as an example, this dissertation uses the mixed research method to help Nanjing Fuzimiao scenic spot understand the actual needs of tourists and realize the upgrade of scenic spot products.

This dissertation examines how two prominent fresh food e-commerce platforms, Dingdong Maicai and Hema Fresh (Hema Xiansheng), influence consumers' daily lives and contribute to urban prosperity from a multidimensional perspective. Using semi-structured interviews with Shanghai-based consumers, the study analyzes the platforms’ impact on convenience, product diversity, and consumer engagement strategies, such as instant delivery and personalized promotions. The research also integrates IGP’s LOOT framework (Life Outcomes, Life Opportunities, and Life Together) and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to assess the platforms' broader contribution to urban well-being, encompassing economic, social, and environmental dimensions.Findings reveal that both platforms enhance consumer convenience by offering efficient logistics and diverse products, including pre-prepared meals for timeconstrained users and high-end, healthconscious options for affluent consumers. However, challenges such as delivery delays during peak hours persist. Beyond individual convenience, these platforms contribute to social prosperity by creating local employment opportunities, supporting small suppliers, and enhancing community cohesion through local partnerships. Environmentally, concerns around excessive packaging highlight areas for improvement in sustainability practices.The study concludes that Dingdong Maicai and Hema Fresh not only improve consumer life quality but also promote urban prosperity by advancing economic growth, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability. It provides insights into how these platforms can continue to support urban development and align with sustainable and responsible practices, ultimately benefiting both individuals and the broader community.

The article delves into the emergence and prosperity of female entrepreneurs in the real estate industry in Wenzhou, noting their significant presence and the impact of patriarchal norms on their entrepreneurial strategies and opportunities. Not only did it examine the impact of historical, geographical, and social factors on its unique 'Wenzhou model', and how this impact shapes female entrepreneurs, but it also explored the importance of social capital in supporting female real estate agents, including how they use personal networks and family resources to achieve business success.

This research discusses the challenges and difficulties of career transitions professional e-sports athletes face in China after retirement. It comprehensively analyses the career transition factors by adapting Schlossberg's Career Transition Theory, including retirement background, personal attitudes, support systems, and coping strategies. It then gives corresponding suggestions to the esports athletes for successful career transitions.

This study aims to explore the role of sovereignty, cooperation and peer pressure on the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) of the BRICS countries, within the context of the first global stock take in 2023, and looking ahead to the next generation of NDCs that are due for submission in 2025.

In September 2020, China announced its ambitious goal of "Carbon Peaking and Neutrality" within 40 years at the 75th United Nations General Assembly, known as the "Dual Carbon" targets. This declaration marks a significant step in China's commitment to addressing global climate change and fostering an allencompassing green transformation of its economy and society. Against this backdrop, the circular economy (CE) has been identified as a pivotal strategy for realizing these carbon goals. The circular economy aims to promote a comprehensive cycle of production, consumption, and social development to achieve both environmental protection and economic growth. Since the initiation of China's Circular Economy Demonstration City policy in 2013, 101 regions (including 62 cities) have joined the initiative. The research will address questions about the impact of the Circular Economy Demonstration City policy on carbon emissions across China and how do CE practices aid in achieving the 'Dual Carbon' targets. The study is anticipated to conduct an empirical investigation based on panel data from 287 prefecturelevel cities from 2009 to 2021, aiming to evaluate the impact of China's Circular Economy Demonstration City policy on carbon emissions. The objective is to determine the effectiveness of the circular economy in achieving the nation's 'Dual Carbon' targets and provide comprehensive insights for future policy refinements.

The aim of this microlevel case study is to explore the grassroots of the intricate relationship between stakeholder preferences and the institutional context within the baking industry, with a focus on transitioning towards corporate sustainability. To achieve this aim, three key objectives have been outlined. Firstly, the research seeks to investigate who are the stakeholders contributing to the delivery of sustainability transition within the bakery sector and how their perceptions can influence the process of transition. Additionally, it analyses the regulatory frameworks and institutional contexts, that shape the available sustainability options for bakery businesses, and suggests future regulatory areas that require progress. Furthermore, the dissertation identifies and examines primary challenges to recommend changes required to achieve the transformation of bakery industries into sustainable entities. Through interviews conducted with internal stakeholders of the case study bakery industry, and conceptualizing discussions with an external expert the study endeavours to provide insights into the complexities of sustainability transitions in the baking industry, ultimately contributing to the broader discourse on sustainable business practices

Rapid urbanisation is leading to devastating decreases in global biodiversity. While cities expand economic opportunities and foster diversity and inclusion for humans, the conversion of land into urban space is one of the primary drivers of biodiversity loss around the world. To develop cities that can provide habitats for all living species, we must better understand the influence of urbanisation on biodiversity. This study has two focuses: global insect biodiversity and London butterfly biodiversity, each in relation to the challenges presented to them by different urbanisation variables: impervious surface area, artificial light at night and land cover. These relationships were studied with regression analysis and modelled with generalised linear mixed effects models. At the global level, only certain land uses exerted a significant influence over changes in insect biodiversity, with signals from the urbanisation variables being too weak to draw any conclusions regarding their impact. In the London case study, butterfly species richness fluctuated significantly with changes in the value of each urbanisation variable, as well as changes in land cover. This study calls attention to the importance of context when studying urbanisation’s impact on 2 insect biodiversity. Though drawing patterns at the global scale was largely precluded due to external variables, at the single-city level butterfly species richness was determined by both landscape and local conditions. This study contributes to building our understanding of how changes in the built and natural environment can impact biodiversity, a crucial piece of knowledge in our increasingly urban world.

This dissertation explores Climate Change Education (CCE), from the perspectives of pupils and teachers in seven UK schools. It is a co-designed research project, with an educational initiative seeking to embed CCE in schools' curriculums. Primary research was conducted using teacher interviews and then triangulated and analysed using secondary data from pupil focus groups. The findings suggest the importance of "response-able" pedagogies that are inclusive, empowering and mobilising. It examines current practices in CCE and makes recommendations for future implementation.

This dissertation aims to analyze how colonial narratives have influenced contemporary understandings of sustainability and food security in the Philippines and to explore pathways towards decolonization. Drawing on theories of discourse analysis, colonialism, and food systems, the study seeks to address the following key research questions: (1) How have colonial narratives shaped discourse surrounding sustainability and food security in the Philippines? (2) What are the contemporary implications of colonial narratives on the sustainability and food security of the Philippines? (3) How can decolonizing policies and strategies challenge and transform colonial narratives to promote more equitable and sustainable food systems in the Philippines? The dissertation will employ discourse analysis to examine texts, speeches, policies, media representations, and other discursive artifacts related to sustainability and food security in the Philippines. By critically analyzing the language, narratives, and power dynamics embedded within these discourses, the study aims to uncover the ways in which colonialism continues to influence contemporary understandings of sustainability and food security, and to 2 identify pathways towards decolonization and transformative change in Philippine food systems.