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Oláh, J. et al
ISSN 2071-789X
INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO ECONOMICS AND SOCIOLOGY
Economics & Sociology, Vol. 16, No. 1, 2023
85
SUSTAINABLE E-COMMERCE AND
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ON
SUSTAINABILITY
Judit Oláh
John von Neumann University,
Kecskemét, Hungary
College of Business and Economics,
University of Johannesburg,
Johannesburg, South Africa
E-mail: olah.judit@econ.unideb.hu
ORCID 0000-0003-2247-1711
József Popp
John von Neumann University,
Kecskemét, Hungary
College of Business and Economics,
University of Johannesburg,
Johannesburg, South Africa
E-mail: popp.jozsef@uni-
neumann.hu
ORCID 0000-0003-0848-4591
Muhammad Asif Khan
University of Kotli
Faculty of Management Sciences,
Department of Commerce, Pakistan
E-mail: khanasif82@uokajk.edu.pk
ORCID 0000-0002-3563-2951
Nicodemus Kitukutha
Ihrig Károly Doctoral School of
Management and Business,
University of Debrecen,
Debrecen, Hungary
E-mail:
nicodemus.kitukutha@econ.unideb.hu
ORCID 0000-0002-4103-6910
Received: April, 2022
1st Revision: October, 2022
Accepted: March, 2023
DOI: 10.14254/2071-
789X.2023/16-1/6
ABSTRACT. Sustainability is one of the most important
socio-economic-environmental topics of the time.
Consumers are increasingly demanding companies to
have eco-friendly approaches that ensure sustainable e-
commerce. There is a great challenge to e-commerce
business, taking into account that e-commerce is
connected with frequent shipping, high return rates,
and non-recyclable packaging, which cause a negative
impact on the environment. The studies show that e-
commerce is rapidly growing and widely accepted.
However, the challenge is how to sustain the growth of
e-commerce in the long run considering the
environmental impact. Therefore, the research gap on
sustainable e-commerce should be considered in the
light of the environmental impact. Qualitative,
quantitative and cluster analysis methods are applied in
this study. The results indicate that investing in more
sustainable processes has a positive environmental
impact. According to the survey, two out of three
customers find online retailers adopting sustainability
policies important. Only one out of four customers has
decided to refuse firms that do not meet sustainability
practices. Therefore, the studies of sustainable e-
commerce are crucial. The findings indicate that most
European countries have adopted e-commerce
sustainability policies while countries in Africa have
adopted only few (Kenya). Thus, theoretical and
managerial implications are proposed in this study. In
addition, all stakeholders should apply policies
governing sustainable e-commerce and environmental
impact: the government, retailers, and consumers.
Oláh, J., Popp, J., Khan, M. A., & Kitukutha, N. (2023). Sustainable e-commerce
and environmental impact on sustainability. Economics and Sociology, 16(1), 85-105.
doi:10.14254/2071-789X.2023/16-1/6
Oláh, J. et al
ISSN 2071-789X
INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO ECONOMICS AND SOCIOLOGY
Economics & Sociology, Vol. 16, No. 1, 2023
86
JEL Classification
: F18, L81,
Q56
Keywords
: sustainability, environmental impact footprint, e-
commerce
Introduction
In the last 3 decades, e-commerce has grown rapidly and is expected to pass the
forecasted mark of US$ 2 trillion in sales revenue. Moreover, e-commerce growth can be
attributed to the expansion of the coronavirus and government restrictions on direct human
interactions. Nevertheless, things will not be as before and will not go back to their previous
state. The new normality has adopted technologies for trading, such as e-commerce or online
shopping, which involve buying and selling goods and services via computer networks or
wireless devices. The growth of e-commerce can be attributed to steady innovation
development, advancement in information communication technology and increasing internet
use, connected with broad access to it, particularly in Kenya. China seems to be empowered by
green manufacturing that ensures the growth of online businesses and shoppers through e-
commerce platforms. These two countries work in partnership as Kenya is becoming a business
hub for Chinese products. The electronic commerce (e-commerce) market went forward from
a basic partner of physical retail to an online shopping environment that includes multiple
devices and store models (Svatosova, 2020; Svatosova, 2022). Currently, in countries with
developed markets, e-commerce has proper regulations. Therefore, the digital economy is
thriving in the competitiveness of the countries and regions, especially Europe and China,
compared to Africa (Miethlich et al., 2020). However, Africa's e-commerce landscape is still
challenging due to a lack of policies. Therefore, it is essential to enact and implement policies
that are in line with businesses and e-commerce sustainability. In Africa, after getting internet
access and its penetration in most countries, the benefits of e-commerce are evident in terms of
convenience and the variety of high-quality products with low prices. This has been enabled by
fierce competition in e-commerce platforms, willing buyers, willing sellers, and seamless
online payment in Africa (Che & Xiao, 2020).
A few years ago, there were issues with trust, privacy, and security as major hindrance
to e-commerce in Africa. But now it is a thing of the past. With advancement in technology
secure e-payment systems have been established in Africa, and e-commerce growth has
changed the retail industry. Large numbers of shoppers have turned to online shopping and
away from traditional brick-and-mortar shopping. According to the United Nations Conference
on Trade and Development’s (UNCTAD) e-commerce index report state high e-commerce
growth rate in Africa. Particularly in the Nigerian, South African, and Kenyan economies. E-
businesses have transformed retail industry in Kenya completely and on the rise to a higher
level. Although online business is spreading consistently in Africa, there is a great challenge
to manage this growth in terms of sustainable commerce in Kenya. Kenya has extended online
shopping platforms in retail industry to rural communities and small towns, where there is an
inadequate e-commerce infrastructure and policies in Kenya. Proving to be the hindrance for
full realization and execution of e-commerce operations. Nevertheless, retailers are
progressively counting on innovation and technology to drive sales and increase the customer
base. The Statista report of 2021 shows that the African retail industry will exceed $30 billion
in 2020, from a turnover of $19 billion in 2019.
Jumia is a major online store that uses technological innovation to fuel e-commerce
business development in Kenya. The giant online store is an icon with its operations most
countries in Africa. The Jumia is a c e-commerce platform that offers online services and
Oláh, J. et al
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Economics & Sociology, Vol. 16, No. 1, 2023
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products to its customers in a one-stop shop. Customers select products or services through
Jumia's online integrated system platform and pay via e-payment system, such as Mpesa or cash
on delivery, while goods are delivered at customers doorstep promptly (Hassan & Lee, 2021).
Previously, cash payment was the most preferred mode of payment in Africa. However,
Jumia empowered its customers to pay for their goods using M-PESA in Kenya that agree with
other studies in offering smart solutions such as mobile banking digital money. M-PESA is a
mobile money solution that offers safe, fast, and low-cost in paying of goods, receive, transfer
and store money app support sustainable e-commerce good practices (Popova, 2021). The
payment is made once the customer receives the goods. This gives its customers high
satisfaction and the company enjoys customer loyalty to the brand store and last mile e-
commerce practices for home delivery to reduce pollution (Bjerkan et al., 2020). Thus, if the
same practice is excised in Africa the uptake of online businesses in Kenya will boost e-
commerce growth, in efficiency and urban sustainability (Taniguchi et al., 2020).
In addition, new start-up companies are mushrooming daily and developing cash flow
from fast-evolving economies such as Kenya, despite its slow-growing economy in other
sectors, e-commerce is on the rise. This growth is propelled by the increasing number of online
buyers and sellers accessing e-commerce platforms due to internet access and penetration,
particularly in social commerce and mobile commerce in Kenya.
Furthermore, Kenya has shown that such new models of e-commerce are widely
accepted and are supported by reviews and recommendations from close friends. In the field of
e-commerce social commerce (S-commerce) and mobile commerce (M-commerce) are widely
accepted (Dakduk et al., 2020). Therefore, every brand has a social page for their customers to
give feedback.
However, policies on sustainability are lacking. Thus, the enactment and
implementation of this policy is the backbone and guarantee of the continuity of this trade. This
is because a lack of such regulatory framework policies hinders growth and sustainable e-
commerce (Yang et al., 2020). China has sustainable e-commerce policies and Kenya is keen
to implement the same. That is forecast to expand e-commerce volume trade between the two
countries. E-commerce in Kenya would do much better with good policies enacted to facilitate
sustainability.
The communication authority of Kenya (CAK) report show that the electronic
commerce (e-commerce) market has grown 27 times after the World Health Organization
declared the coronavirus as a pandemic. In the environment of e-commerce businesses have
evolved drastically throughout the year regarding product variety, innovation, and technology
infrastructure, and e-services provision. Web-based business models, ranging from consumer
to consumer (C2C), business to consumer (B2C), and business to business to business to
customer (B2B2C), have grown steadily (Huang et al., 2021).
The B2C model has generated revenue of $21.61 billion in the last year alone, not
forgetting that 2021 was impacted by Covid-19, and therefore statistics show that the e-
commerce market will double if not triple ( R, De', Pandey et al., 2020). E-commerce platform
has dealt with such as trust, privacy, and security and guarantee business continuity (Kitukutha
& Widyatama, 2020). The internet penetration and cheaper mobile phones has offered solutions
to the previous challenges in the retail industry.
However, there is a great challenge in managing such e-commerce growth in Kenya,
due to the lack of sustainability policies in e-commerce in the following areas: sustainability in
packaging, transparency, production process, shipping, and logistics, therefore the research gap
in this study. Several questions have been raised to answer the aims and objectives of this study,
as follows.
1. Why is sustainable e-commerce and go green important?
2. How to ensure the right policies sustainable e-commerce?
Oláh, J. et al
ISSN 2071-789X
INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO ECONOMICS AND SOCIOLOGY
Economics & Sociology, Vol. 16, No. 1, 2023
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3. What do consumers pay attention to while shopping online?
4. Who are the beneficiaries of sustainable e-commerce?
Therefore, hypotheses have been developed to investigate positive and significant
impacts on sustainable e-commerce and environmental impacts.
1. 3Rs packaging material has a positive impact on the environmental footprint.
2. Better policies on sustainability have a positive impact one-commerce growth.
3. Clear communication on statements in e-commerce have a positive impact on online
business growth.
4. All stakeholders practicing sustainable e-commerce has a positive impact long term
growth.
1. Literature review
1.1. Why is sustainable e-commerce important?
Sustainability is the ability to achieve or meet current needs without compromising the
ability to meet future generations’ needs and the attempt to reduce negative impacts on the
environmental, social, and economic dimensions in terms of efficient utilization of resources
(Hajdukiewicz & Pera, 2023) in both domestic and international contexts (Zysk, 2020). More
and more companies operate on the basis of the sustainable business models (Stanek-
Kowalczyk, 2021). Sustainable e-commerce means coming up with methods that have no
negative environmental impact. For example, by using eco-friendly shipping methods that will
reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions that cause pollution. Producing eco-friendly products
that are more durable and of high quality. Company social engagement by creating awareness
to customers on the benefits of going green and associating themselves with retailers who
advocate for green products. Also by implementing policies on transparent green manufacturing
and shipping processes (Kiba-Janiak et al., 2021, Ocwa et al., 2021). Similarly, clear
communication by companies that will only partner with firms that implement sustainable
practices in e-commerce. Sustainable e-commerce can be realized when there is an emphasis
on strategic management competitiveness measures in place supporting e-retail industry
(Svatosova, 2020).
The definition of e-commerce is the buying of goods and services via electronic means
by use of computer networks or wireless devices such as mobile phones, Ipads, and tablets. In
the scope of our research, this will exclude media downloads or streams and will concentrate
on merchandise in B2C and C2C markets. E-commerce is also synonymous with online
shopping, e-commerce, online stores, e-tailers, retailers, and online consumers, and is not
limited to electronic funds transfers (EFT) and electronic exchange communications (EEC).
Incorporating sustainability in e-commerce aims successful and long term growth in e-retail by
implementing sustainable practices (Xie & Wang, 2021). In addition, Nguyen in his study
indicates the importance of sustainability reporting is to ensure integrated sustainable e-
commerce that will add the value to online shopping firms (Nguyen, 2020).
Why is it important to care about the environment by using compostable, recyclable,
and reusable packaging materials? Statistics show that due to the growth of e-commerce a third
of the world is filled with garbage (Escursell et al., 2021). A recent study shows that the high
growth of e-commerce globally has led to unprecedented environmental impacts (Rijal & Lin,
2021). Rijal stated in his study that more than 3 billion tons of waste end up in landfills every
year. Most come from packaging materials which are plastics, nylons, and cardboard boxes that
result on land, water, or air pollution. Steps and action need to be taken to address packaging
materials in e-commerce platforms so that retailers offer sustainable packaging materials.
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Therefore, there is a need for collaboration between the producers and retailers in e-
commerce platforms, to source their packaging materials from suppliers who comply with
sustainability statements, values, and missions (Coelho et al., 2020). Manufactures must
produce packaging materials that are in align to the 3Rs: recycle, reduce, and reuse (Berriman,
2020). Recent research has shown that companies and retailers who are ecologically friendly
have secured a larger market share of consumers who are already paying a higher price for
sustainable products (Smye, 2020). Some e-commerce brands have gone further and partnered
with eco-friendly business companies that support environmental protection (Mohammed et al.,
2021) and conservation concepts. Consumers, retailers, and environmentalists have supported
companies who only produce environmentally friendly packaging materials (Oláh et al., 2020;
Dunkovic et al., 2022). Also, governments give tax exemptions and relief to such companies of
which is lacking in Kenya. Beavis states that consumers will even volunteer to partner with
firms that produce ecologically friendly packaging materials in their initiative projects (Beavis,
2020). This can include planting trees and making the world green, regenerating, and preserving
biodiversity. This is to say that retailers that offer sustainable packaging solutions focus on
reusability and in return increase customers’ brand loyalty (McGuire & Lincoln, 2020).
Proactive environmental strategy must be adopted for sustainable development in business and
organizations (Ahmed et al., 2021).
1.2. Right policies in place guarantee sustainable e-commerce
It is of great importance that retailers have policies stipulating sustainability or
sustainable e-commerce in their mission, vision, and core objectives. Similarly, should let all
stakeholders know that will partner with suppliers, manufacturers, and logistic supply providers
who are compliant with green standards and sustainability. Retailers who ensure this will be
opening their doors to customers who are keen on supporting sustainable e-commerce. There
will be large market share for retailers who offer more durable and high-quality and eco-friendly
products. According to this research consumers value much more online stores that are aligned
to sustainability policies in the conduct of their businesses (İzmirli et al., 2020). Similar study
by Wang argues that e-commerce platforms that offer customers with products that are eco-
friendly to their health are the most embraced enterprises (Wang, 2020). Therefore, customers
become loyal to such brands. In return retailers who care about the wellbeing and economic
value of their customers stay in the business in long term. Castellini urged most customers are
inclined to companies that uphold sustainable practices (Pereira-Moliner et al., 2021) and
integrate environmental, social and economic dimensions in the mission, vision, core values of
e-commerce firms that support sustainability increase demand for such commodities is on the
rise (Pimonenko et al., 2021).
Retailers who want to win this large group of shoppers and retain them as customers
need to understand that eco-friendly products play a crucial role in sustainable e-commerce.
According to recent research, customers would more be inclined to partner with such companies
that focus more on environmental sustainability, therefore, has an impact on their purchasing
decisions (Ruben et al., 2020; Brătianu et al., 2020).
From the above arguments, retailers who do not support and implement sustainability
strategies are at risk of collapsing. This conclusion can be drawn from the previous research
work of Lin and others confirming companies that implement eco-friendliness, eco-products,
and eco-friendly environmental policies are in demand. Further stated businesses will boom on
e-commerce platforms if all stakeholders will corporate and work as a team in policy
implementation supported by the government. Millennials are even more conscious of eco-
friendly products who are the major online shoppers (Lin et al., 2020). Eco-friendly companies
will have a long-term relationship with customers who have greater appetite to purchase
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sustainable products and increase efficiency in the use of eco-friendly energy (Streimikiene,
2022) that is friendly to the environment hence supporting e-commerce sustainability (Kim et
al., 2021).
1.3. What do consumers pay attention to while shopping online?
This study discusses various ways that e-commerce can become more sustainable. Most
customers demand for eco-friendly products on environmental impacts (Elgaaied-Gambier et
al., 2020). Poor products that do not meet the standards shortens lives, compromises future
generations and impacts people negatively both socially and health-wise (Bilal et al., 2020). In
addition, there is a great concern about the high levels of shipments of products from different
parts of the world to various destinations through e-commerce platforms. Customer would like
to buy food from the e-commerce firms with sustainability trademarks and have a good
reputation due to concern of their healthy (Füzesi et al., 2018). This means huge emissions of
carbon dioxide which pollute the environment daily, that cause climate change (Streimikiene,
2021) and contribute to respiratory pollution from smog and air pollution. In recent research
better ways of shipping have been discussed to endeavour to develop and attain sustainable
shipping solutions. According to Villa retailers need to choose environmentally friendly
shipping companies that care about their customers and the health of the community at large
(Villa & Monzón, 2021). He suggested companies that prefer to use new technology such as
electric vans, drones, and bicycles, for their deliveries are more favourable to customers who
have great concern for their environment (Patella et al., 2021). In his research indicate that
retailers who partner with eco-friendly shipping companies’ solutions will not only increase
their sales but also stand to acquire new customers. Similar research shows that companies that
are climate-neutral and provide environmentally friendly shipping solutions are going green,
and total zero climate change will be in high demand for their approach to sustainable e-
commerce growth in green development, in realities and myths (Mandilas et al., 2010).
Furthermore, retailers should have clear communications between logistic companies and their
customers to avoid high returns because this hurts environmental pollution. Retailers should be
in constant communication with their customers before, during, and on the delivery date (Rese,
& Baier, 2020), to avoid deliveries when the customers are not available to receive the products.
Alternatively, they can coordinate with the local postal company or establish pick-up points
where customers can pick their deliveries up later.
1.4. Who are the beneficiaries of sustainable e-commerce?
According to Zhang consumers are much happier and more ready to remain loyal to a
particular brand once they receive sustainable, durable, and high-quality products (Ahmad &
Zhang, 2020). Customers will partner and become brand ambassadors with no pay, just to
influence their relatives to buy such brands (Yu & Kim, 2020). Likewise, customers would state
retailers are mindful of the health and environment of their consumers. In a report by Juliet Orji
et al. show that respondents value sustainability-oriented e-commerce platforms hold health and
the environment in high regard (Juliet Orji et al., 2022). Sierra urged policy development to
ensure that customers get e-co-friendly products for their money (Giurca et al., 2022).
Ultimately, sustainability and environmental impact on sustainable e-commerce are intertwined
(Dutta et al., 2020). Therefore, for a win-win solution, all stakeholders involved in the supply
chain must uphold to sustainability policies and values (You, 2020). Retailers, by actively
promoting sustainable e-commerce will, in return, be increasing customer loyalty and
increasing sales, and hence profits.
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However, the major challenge is to address sustainability in e-commerce to ensure
continuous growth. Sustainable e-commerce will in return provide job creation, high-quality
products at cheaper prices, convenience, and easy e-payment. But it does not yet address
environmental impacts, packaging, shipping options, logistics, or delivery times. Once these
challenges are solved, the e-commerce landscape, not only in Kenya but also in Africa as a
whole, will flourish and be guaranteed for future generations. It is of pertinent concern that all
the stakeholders come together and prioritize sustainable e-commerce.
In the literature review, this study used a theoretical and conceptual framework in
sustainable e-commerce to ascertain the relationships of the study constructs. The theoretical
and conceptual frameworks used for the study is shown below. It also provides the background
and development of the study, i.e. how the theoretical and conceptual constructs influencing
sustainable e-commerce are connected (Tran, 2021). Theoretical and conceptual framework of
the study is shown on the Figure 1.
Figure 1. Theoretical and conceptual framework of the study
Source: Authors’ editing (2022)
2. Methodological approach
In this study mixed methods have been used, i.e., quantitative, qualitative and cluster
analysis approaches. The quantitative method is an online survey that was sent to consumers of
online products and services. A sample of 501 respondents was drawn up, and the responses
were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 24) and
incorporated in our results. The quantitative data was collected from an online survey that used
purposive and convenience sampling due to the nature of the study. The study was reviewed
and approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the University of Debrecen before the study
began. A structured questionnaire was used. Before it was distributed a pilot questionnaire was
sent out to five respondents, to gauge the ease, understandability, and clarity of the questions.
Sustainable e-
commerce
Environmental
impact
Transparent
communication
in production,
processes
Retailers and
consumers
Packaging
materials
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The feedback from the sample pilot survey was incorporated in the final questionnaire and was
again re-checked by the supervisor to make sure it collected the data intended for the study. The
questionnaire was social demographic, sustainable e-commerce, and environmental impact on
packaging materials. If these issues are addressed then e-commerce sustainability will be
achieved (Escursell et al., 2021; N. Singh & Sahu 2022).
The questionnaire used a 5-point Likert scale, where 1 denotes ‘strongly disagree’ and
5 ‘strongly agree’ with the statement in the question. It targeted people who are digitally literate
and frequently visit the websites of online stores to order products or services.
Therefore, 90% of the respondents are in the millennium generation age bracket, i.e.,
between 18 and 35 years, who make up the students in the universities in Kenya and are those
consumers who regularly patronize e-commerce platforms.
On the other hand, the qualitative method used structured interviews from two
companies that operate online stores, Jumia and Safaricom, marked as X and Y. The
interviewees are experts and top senior employees of the two companies. The top senior
employees and experts were chosen to collect the feedback and responses that are received
about the brands from their consumers. For quality purposes, the questions were prepared in
advance and sent to the interviewees so that they could adequately prepare. The responses from
the interview were used to form case studies from the two companies.
In addition, secondary data from the previous literature reviews on sustainable e-
commerce challenges to online businesses were applied. In addition, the main reasons for the
interviews were to assess the increasing demand from consumers for environmental impact-
and eco-friendly, durable, and sustainable products. The social demographics, gender,
education level, and frequency of online shopping in quantity and percentage %. Sample
statistics from the survey is shown on Table 1.
Table 1. Sample statistics from the survey
Frequency (n)
Percentage (%)
Gender
Female
252
50.2
Male
249
49.8
Total
501
100
Education level
Bachelor’s
282
56.3
Master’s
142
28.3
Ph.D.
30
6
Lecturer
28
5.5
Participants
Consumers
17
3.3
Retailers
2
.6
Frequency/month
on online shopping
Once
100
22.5
Twice
95
24.5
Three times
90
26.5
> 4 times
75
27.5
Source: Authors’ editing (2022)
The interviews were conducted with experts who are retailers in sustainable e-
commerce. Because customers frequently give reviews on the retailers’ websites (Wright &
Lund, 2000). SPSS vs 24 and Microsoft 360 were used for data analysis. Cluster analysis was
used to evaluate and investigate the impact and significance of the developed countries in
Europe on e-commerce sustainability practices. The results are depicted on results on table 6
and 7.
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3. Empirical results and discussion
According to Anwyl-Irvine, it is vital to conduct several analytical tests to ensure the
instruments used to collect data meet the threshold and the research attains its objectives
(Anwyl-Irvine et al., 2021). Therefore, in this study tests were as follows: reliability and validity
assessment of the scale; collinearity assessment, and partial least squares structural equation
model. Subsequent tests were performed on the challenges facing sustainable e-commerce. The
following abbreviations are used: Environmental impact=EI, Better policies= BP, packaging
materials =PM and beneficiaries of sustainable e-commerce BE.
3.1 Reliability and validity
Cronbach’s alpha (CA) is used to measure composite reliability (CR). The rule of thumb
states that reliability in a test is achieved when its scale value is greater or equal to 0.7. Table 2
shows the results of the reliability and validity test. From Table 2, the lower values of CA are
(0.789; EI scale), (0.889; BP scale), (0.867; PM scale), and (0.825; BS scale) respectively.
Obtaining values higher than 0.7 means that all the research constructs are reliable and
therefore, the validity test can be conducted. This is tested from convergent validity, which is
measured and pronounced to be valid when the average variance extracts (EVA) meet the
threshold of value of 0.5 or higher and the outliers’ loads values are greater than the threshold
value of .7. EVA values in all scenarios are 0.792, .751, 0.742, and 0.701, respectively and the
outliers’ loads are between 0.768 and 0.889, as shown in Table 3 below, and therefore the
validity test is achieved.
Similarly, Mandal state that it is very important to test the relationship between the
independent and dependent variables in the regression model (Mandal & Maiti, 2022). This is
measured on the variance inflation factor (VIF). The rule of thumb is that if the VIF is higher
than 3, then there is collinearity. However, VIF values below 3 mean there is no collinearity. In
our case, the value of the VIF was 1.423, Thus, there was no collinearity in the independent
variables, but they influence each other. The correlations between the constructs were tested by
performing a hoterotrait-monotrait ratio (HTMT) on discriminant validity. Its threshold from
the study is 0.865. The value for HTMT is 0.423, which is below the threshold of 0.865.
Therefore, we conclude that all the discriminant validity is eliminated. Reliability and validity
tests is shown on Table 2.
Table 2. Reliability and validity tests
Constructs
Outlier loadings
CA
CR
AVE
VIF Value
HTMT Value
EI
SE
SE
PM
EI
[0.768-0.897]
0.789
0.887
0.751
BP
[0.756-0.923]
0.889
0.901
0.742
PM
[0.745-0.892]
0.867
0.891
0.701
1.423
0.465
BS
0.731-0.889]
0.889
0.825
0.867
1.282
1.465
0.612
0.423
Note: CA: Cronbach’s Alpha: CR: Composite Reliability; AVE: Average Variance Extracted
EI: Environmental Impact; BP: Better policies; PM: Packaging Material; BS: Business Growth
Source: Authors’ editing (2022)
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3.2. Pls-Sem
The partial least squares path modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to test sustainable e-
commerce on the four hypotheses. Tests are based on the area of environmental impact,
achieving and communication of sustainable e-commerce, packaging materials, and benefactors
of the sustainable online businesses. The skewness of the statistical respondents assumes a
normal distribution. We use the bootstrapping method to measure distribution with a repeated
sample size of 5100 for the initial smaller sample size of 501. The results from this study show
that all the hypotheses - H1, H2, H3, and H4 - are supported with a level of significance of 95%
(p-value =0.000<0.005). Table 3 shows the relationships among the hypotheses. Evaluated by
Beta factor β, and standard deviation, the significance level is 95% (p-value =0.000<0.005).
In this study, we purposely did not include moderator or mediating effects to ensure the
simplicity of the study and avoid a complex analysis. Environmental impact (EI) has a positive
and significant impact on sustainable e-commerce (β=0.594, p-value 0.005). Better policies
(BP) have a positive and significant impact on sustainable e-commerce of (β=0.462. p-value
0.005); however, packaging materials have a more positive and significant impact on the
environmental impact than on sustainable e-commerce with a value of (β=0.354, p-
value=0.005); last is the ripple effect of sustainable e-commerce on both retailers and
consumers that has a lasting effect on customer satisfaction and leads to brand loyalty and thus
an attractive reputation. The BS value is (β=0.145, p-value 0.005) that analyses the integration
of sustainable e-commerce with environmental impact needs to be investigated further. PLS-
SEM test that is used for predictive and exploratory evaluations on casual relationships and
impact among the variables postulated in the theoretical. PLS-SEM tests on casual relationships
and variables is shown on Table 3.
Table 3. PLS-SEM tests on casual relationships and variables
Relationship
Hypotheses
β
STDEV
P Values
Result
EI>SE
H1
0.594
0.041
0.000
Supported
BP>SE
H2
0. 462
0.031
0.000
Supported
SE>BG
H3
0.354
0.045
0.000
Supported
0.145
0.015
0.000
Supported
EI: Environmental Impact; BP: Better policies; PM: Packaging Material; BS: Business Growth.
Source: Authors’ editing (2022)
3.3. R2, f2, Q2 tests
Coefficient determination (R2)
In social research into consumer behaviour, the threshold value of R2 is 1.0, showing
that the given data perfectly fit the linear model of the equation. A value of R2 0.5 or below
shows that some variability that is contributed by independent variables is acceptable. By the
results of this study in Table 4 below, the EI is 0.312, which is below the threshold by a small
margin, meaning there is no great deviation from the acceptable value. Sustainable e-commerce
(S.E) has an R2 value of 0.420, equivalent to the acceptable threshold, therefore giving the S.E.
a prominent and achievable target.
Frequency strength
F2 determines the strength frequency in related constructs. F2 values of 0.02, 0.15, and
0.35 are the weak, moderate, and strong thresholds. Table 4 shows the frequency strength on
R2, F2, and Q2.
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Predictive relevance (Q2)
Q2 indicates the predictability and exploratory power of latent variables. In a situation
where the value of the Q2 is higher than 0, the model is said to be important and predicts better
relevance. All the values of
Q2 are higher than 0 (Q2EI=0.122, and Q2S.E=0.330), thus the model has a better
predictive relevance. R2, F2, Q2 test results is shown on Table 4.
Table 4. R2, F2, Q2 test results
Constructs
R2
F2
Q2
EI
0.12
0.243
0.122
SE
0.420
0.025(EI)/0.395BP
0.130
EI: Environmental Impact; BP: Better policies; SE: Sustainable E-commerce
Source: Authors’ editing (2022)
In terms of the qualitative method, the interviewers took as little time as possible from
the experts and retailers as they were still working in their stores. The interviews were meant
to show the importance sustainability department for the companies that are involved in e-
commerce platforms. Interview schedule both interviewees is shown on Table 5.
Table 5. Interview schedule both interviewees
Interviews
Company
Interviewee
Date
Duration
Interviewer 1
X
Sustainability mgr.
21/02/2021
15 minutes
Interviewer 2
Y
e-commerce mgr.
22/02/2021
10 minutes
Source: Authors’ editing (2022)
On cluster analysis e-commerce enterprises with total turnover and with more than 10
employees excluding financial sectors. The enterprises with e-commerce platforms in
percentages. The firms were collected from Eurostat’s 2021, with employees more than 10
excluding financial firms. From the fig 2 it can be seen clearly most the e-commerce firm are
well established and practice e-commerce sustainability policies. The turn in most developed
countries is above 15% which in developing countries is below 15% of the total turnover sales
in e-commerce. E-commerce enterprises with total turnover and with more than 10 employees
excluding financial sectors is shown on Figure 2.
Figure 2. E-commerce enterprises with total turnover and with more than 10 employees
excluding financial sectors.
Source: Authors’ editing (2022)
32%
5%
29%
23%
14%
15%
35%
4%
17%
22%
12%
4%6%
13%
23%
15%
14%
15%
18%
9%
17%
21%21%
24%
19%
25%
2%
9%11%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
belgium
bulgaria
czechia
denmark
german
estonia
ireland
greece
spain
france
croatia
cyprus
latvia
lithuania
hungay
netherlands
austria
poland
portugal
romania
slovenia
slovakia
finland
sweden
united kingdom
norway
montenegro
serbia
bosnia
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E-commerce enterprises with total turnover and with more than 10 employees excluding
financial sectors. Ireland and Belgium are doing much better with 35% and 32%, followed
Czechia, 29%, Norway 25% Sweden 24%, Hungary 23%, Denmark 23%, France 22%,
Slovakia and Finland 21%, UK 19%, Portugal 18%Slovenia and Spain 17%, Poland,
Netherlands, and Estonia 15% while the rest being below 15%.
The means of four clusters and seven variables: 4 k-Means of different e-commerce
models. e.comm, e.comm_web, e-.comm_EDI, e.comm_B2C, e.comm_B2C_B2G,
e.comm_B2C_10, and e.comm_B2C_20. The graph present function in terms of cost of doing
business under various clusters to establish the best cluster that practise e-commerce
sustainability policies from the seven evaluated in the four clusters. As it’s indicated from the
results cluster four with sustainability policies is of going concern. Presents means of four
clusters and seven variables for e-commerce sustainability is shown on Figure 3.
Figure 3. Presents means of four clusters and seven variables for e-commerce sustainability
Source: Authors’ editing (2022)
The ANOVA analysis, K-means clustering with 7 variables, 4 clusters, 29 countries
selected from Eurostat. The four cluster were justified to be statistically significant at 1% for
all variables. ANOVA analysis for continuous variables, 4 clusters and 29 countries from
Eurostat is shown on Table 6.
Table 6. ANOVA analysis for continuous variables, 4 clusters and 29 countries from Eurostat.
ANOVA for continuous variables: Number of clusters: 4, total
number of countries case: 29
Between SS
df
Within SS
df
F
p-value
e-comm
1514, 163
3
476,389
25
26,487
0,000***
e-comm_web
244,700
3
90,472
25
22,539
0,000***
e-comm_EDI
697,115
3
320,333
25
18,135
0,000***
e-comm_B2C
29,158
3
26,083
25
9,316
0,000***
e-comm_B2C_B2G
95,717
3
54972
25
14,510
0,000***
e-comm_B2C_10
454,568
3
367,639
25
10,304
0,000***
e-comm_B2C_20
121,413
3
87,139
25
11,611
0,000***
***Statistically significant at 1%
0 0,2 0,4 0,6 0,8 1 1,2
e-comm
e-comm_web
e-comm_EDI
e-comm_B2C
e-comm_B2C_B2G
e-comm_B2C_10
e-comm_B2C_20
Normalize means of the seven variables
Businesses
Histagram of means of continous variables; 4 clusters and k-means
cluster 4 cluster 3 cluster 2 cluster 1
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Table 7. Presents mean values for all seven variables for each of the four clusters. The
highest mean values for all seven variables are for Cluster 4 where are grouped Belgium and
Ireland. However, comparing all seven variables, the highest mean value has variable
Enterprises’ total turnover from e-Commerce for Cluster 4 (33,50). The lowest mean values for
all seven variables are in Cluster 2, especially for variable Enterprises’ turnover from web sales
– B2C (1,33). Table 7. Mean values for each of the four clusters to the seven variables in 29
countries of the data available for e-commerce enterprises 2022. Presents seven mean variables
cases of the four clusters is shown on Table 7.
Table 7. Presents seven mean variables cases of the four clusters
Cluster 1
Cluster 2
Cluster 3
Cluster 4
e-comm
19,83
5,00
15,44
33,50
e-comm_web
6,08
2,67
7,56
15,00
e-comm_EDI
13,50
2,33
8,00
19,00
e-comm_B2C
2,25
1,33
3,00
5,50
e-comm_B2C_B2G
4,08
1,67
4,56
9,50
e-comm_B2C_10
12,92
7,33
17,89
18,50
e-comm_B2C_20
4,42
2,67
1,89
10,00
Number of cases
12
6
9
2
Source: Authors’ editing (2022)
3. Conducting research and results
Through the quantitative part of the research, the focus was on data collecting,
processing, and analysis. A nine-level Likert scale was used to measure the perceptions and
assessments of the respondents, on the dependent variable (transitional crisis), as well as the
independent variables (heritage of socialism, geopolitics, nomenclature authorities, deficit of
institutional changes, and neoliberal ideology), in a survey that was applied during the research.
In measuring the dependent variable (transitional crisis), the scale marks were set from the
lowest (1) to the highest (5). Regarding the independent variables, the negative impact was
measured from the minimum negative (1) to the maximum (5) on the dependent variable. The
survey included filling out 500 questionnaires for each country (Montenegro, Serbia, and
Bosnia and Herzegovina), which made a total of 1,500 respondents. Collected data for this study
were processed by SPSS software. According to the purpose defined in the hypothesis of work,
descriptive statistics were used for the data analysis, correlation analysis, and multi-correlation.
The multiple linear regression model was applied after (the method of least square), as well as
hierarchical multiple regression model.
3.1. Application of multiple linear regression analysis
Before the regression analysis the descriptive statistics was performed. From the
obtained results, the relevant results were singled out in the Table 8.
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Table 8. Means end standard deviation
Variables
Montenegro
Serbia
Bosnia and
Herzegovina
Total
Mean
Standard
dev.
Mean
Standard
dev
Mean
Standard
dev.
Mean
Standard
dev.
Crisis
2.7590
.73655
3.2590
.73655
3.7515
.72212
3.2560
.83582
Path depend.
2.8679
1.07412
3.8120
1.09666
3.8610
1.07260
3.5154
1.17298
Globalization
3.8940
.67652
4.3060
.52241
4.0560
.61776
4.0853
.63165
Politics
2.6320
1.28720
3.1120
1.25363
3.5431
1.15498
3.0953
1.28699
Institutions
3.5990
.78161
4.0870
.76229
4.5020
.49849
4.0613
.78485
Neoliberalideo.
3.3236
.88945
4.4260
.53861
3.9279
.53755
4.1278
.76309
Source: own compilation
For all three countries:
55443322110 XbXbXbXbXbbY +++++=
ZaX 1 =3.51. X2=4.08. X3=3.09. X4=4.08 X5=4.12
54321 26.031.003.023.021,063.4 XXXXXY −−−−−=
25,3=Y
The level of transitional crisis is the largest in Bosnia and Herzegovina (mean is 3.75),
then in Serbia (mean is 3.25) and the lowest is in Montenegro (2.75). Comparation of means by
variables is shown on the Graph 4.
Graph 4. Comparation data by countries
Source: own data
The Graph 1 shows that the level of different perception of independent variables in
different countries. Bosnia and Herzegovina regarding the level of transition crisis is in worst
situation than Serbia and Montenegro. Also, the negative influence of independent variables is
the stronger in Bosnia and Herzegovina, after that in Serbia, then in Montenegro. Montenegro
is in better situation than other countries, in all researched aspects. The existence of differences
is expected because in the previous process of transition various economic, political,
institutional and social changes have been realized. There are also other factors which have not
been examined in this paper. Still, presented results clearly show similarity of models of
influence and functional dependency, on the basis of common factors of influence research.
0
0,5
1
1,5
2
2,5
3
3,5
4
4,5
5
Montenegro
Serbia
Bosnia and
Hertzegovina
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Conclusion
Sustainable e-commerce is the backbone of the sustainability and growth of online
businesses (Schoneveld, 2020). Therefore, to retailers and customers of e-commerce cannot
separate sustainable e-commerce from environmental sustainability. If online stores support
policies that govern sustainable commerce, then without no doubt online business will flourish,
presenting a greater opportunity for business growth (Calderon-Monge et al; 2020; Yayla et al.
2021). It is absolutely that everyone desires a sustainable life that will be enjoyed if the three
dimensions of sustainability are practiced. However, retailers and consumers must focus their
minds on sustainable business solutions. Adejumo emphasize that it is only retailers who adopt
technology-driven and sustainable solutions and are courageous enough to be responsible to
lead the way in sustainable businesses will ultimately make profits in the long term (Adejumo
et al., 2020). Most of the sustainable e-commerce solutions for retailers lie in businesses’ ability
to make profits and have a long-term impact on their customers on eco-friendly environment.
By using recyclable packaging materials, prioritizing sustainable e-commerce philanthropy,
and environmentally friendly business practices. Such as practising green technology in
production and distribution, charity donations, and support for projects to reach needy
communities in areas of sustainability. For example, telling customers that if they buy a pair of
sustainable shoes, they will protect environment for long life and contribute $1 to donations
that support children without shoes, and thus increase social interactions in society (Metzker et
al., 2021).
A green environment and eco-friendly products are the desire of every consumer (M.
Singh & Sahu, 2020). According to Francesca stated that there is a high demand for healthy and
less harmful products among consumers (Francesca & Elisa, 2020). Research shows that
sustainable e-commerce can be the solution to the environmental issues suffocating the world,
ranging from pollution and climate change through green policy initiatives that are
implemented to see sustainability become a priority (Verbruggen & Brauers, 2020). Designing
eco-friendly and durable products, and packaging them in the right size of the right material,
which is recyclable, reusable, and decompose is an attempt to achieve e-commerce
sustainability (Wang et al., 2020).
Similarly, for retailers, brands, and online stores who want to go green and do
sustainable e-commerce, this does not mean that they will suffer a financial burden. But a
necessity, especially when practise to have transparency and open communication about their
processes, systems, shipping, and packaging will boost e-commerce sustainability and
adventure in the tourism industry (Valentinas et al., 2021). It will only be a matter of time before
all consumers become responsible and sustainable e-commerce. Coincidentally, customers will
become their marketers by word of mouth, acting for free, and become loyal to their brands
(Cheng et al., 2021). This will help the retailer to have a positive brand image globally.
Our results are in agreement with other studies as follows; by having sustainability
policies in place and implemented results to competitive advantage and synergetic relationships
where by this will lead to sustainable e-commerce with all stakeholders (Pereira-Moliner et al.,
2021). In line with policy implementation, it will attract countries that uphold sustainable e-
commerce and can partner to achieve a greater transformation. In eco-friendly products, and
low emission of gases to minimize the pollution hence economic growth and ecological
atmosphere in all sectors as we realize vision 2030 17 sustainable goals (Pimonenko et al.,
2021). Finally, when all stakeholders agree to capitalize and adopt eco-friendly products and
provide, and protect ecological environment, this will ensure that e-commerce business will
thrive for the long term in the sharing economy that advocate efficiency and effective use of
resources in environment, economic and social dimensions (Valentinas et al. , 2021).
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The findings indicate clusters across all the seven variables. Cluster 4 shows these the
two countries Ireland and Belgium have tapped in the use of good infrastructure in ICT and
emerged victorious competitive advantage and synergies. Cluster three these are countries that
are in the developing stages but not yet fully realized the benefits of e-commerce sustainability
and environmental sustainability due to lack of synergy and integration. While cluster two are
disadvantage in low uptake and digitization of business enterprises therefore the mean values
of the countries in sustainable e-commerce might not be realized the enterprises do not embrace
sustainability in all dimensions. Finally, cluster 4 is the category of the countries that developing
and incur high cost to put the ICT infrastructure in place to support e-commerce enterprises and
migrate to digitization. Therefore, will be lagging much behind to actualize vision 2030 in
sustainable business processes. During pandemic most of the countries adopted e-commerce
(Scutariu et al., 2022).
The results show from web sales and e-commerce bringing competitive advantages and
synergies among the countries practising sustainable e-commerce in a sharing economy in
various sectors (Pereira-Moliner et al., 2021). Therefore, it is apparent that the significant
difference between the selected European countries regarding the usage and quality of web
sales and e-commerce practices exists (Zoroja et al., 2020).
The limitation of this study is that it was not possible to get an interview with a
government official from the field of commerce and information communication technology.
The concerned parties were not available for questioning. In addition, there are missing
elements and shortcomings on the website of the two sectors. In terms of sustainability policies,
the government should enact policies that support retailers and consumers in sustainable e-
commerce. Especially, in small and medium enterprises to overcome competition from
international brands that have taken over e-commerce in Kenya. Furthermore, the lack of a
database is a great challenge in Kenya in monitoring the performance of the retail industry in
e-commerce firms. Most of the policies exist in written form but are not implemented by the
government, so intervention is needed from the two ministries to work together with consumers
and retailers. Besides, the sample size was small and might not have given a truly representative
picture of the entire population.
Future research directions should be focused on government ministries concerned with
the e-commerce industry, the adoption of sustainable business practices in e-commerce with
other relevant combinations of big data analytics (BDA), social commerce (S-commerce), and
mobile commerce (M-mobile). Policy implementation is key to the growth of e-commerce and
the retail industry (Stafford et al., 2020).
The practical implication from the study has already been indicated, i.e. sustainable e-
commerce can be attained if all stakeholders can work together (Jun et al., 2021), starting with
customers. Most customers advocate for sustainable products with an eco-friendly
environmental impact. Retailers must ensure they have open and transparent communication
about their production processes and systems that support sustainability practices that will build
trust in the minds of customers. On the other hand, the government must advocate and
implement policies that are following sustainable consumption and production. Regarding the
three dimensions of sustainability, environmental, social, and economic dimensions protect the
environment and offer consumers better health, and better living stands and empower small and
medium enterprises in the e-commerce industry (Cheba et al., 2021). The recommendations are
important to all retailers, suppliers, the government, and manufacturers. Must be to comply with
sustainability practices (Jiang et al., 2020) to reduce pollution, introduce recyclable packaging,
have a positive environmental impact and focus on social engagement.
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