University of agribusiness and rural development - Plovdiv
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VALUE CREATION, PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT AND STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION IN MATERIALS SCIENCE
This study analyzes the mechanisms for value creation, performance measurement, and strategic implementation of integrated information systems for heat treatment process management. The research examines how predictive maintenance algorithms, process optimization models, and quality forecasting transform operational efficiency into economic value. Special attention is given to hierarchical performance measurement frameworks that aggregate detailed operational metrics into progressively higher-level summaries. The methodology includes analysis of return on investment through quantification of tangible financial benefits and strategic value creation. Structured implementation approaches are investigated, including phased deployment, risk management, and organizational change management. Future development trajectories are explored, including artificial intelligence, digital twins, and blockchain technologies. Results demonstrate measurable improvements in equipment efficiency, energy efficiency, and financial outcomes. Conclusions emphasize the necessity of a balanced approach that integrates technical complexity with organizational readiness and cultivates a culture of continuous improvement.
value creation, predictive maintenance, process optimization, performance measurement, return on investment, strategic implementation, artificial intelligence, digital twins, organizational change, sustainability.
Copyright (c) 2026 New knowledge Journal of science
SOCIO-ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF THE TERRITORY OF THE MUNICIPALITIES OF TUTRAKAN AND SLIVO POLE
Local partnership is a sustainable mechanism on the territory of the municipalities of Tutrakan and Slivo Pole for the implementation of joint activities and responsibilities in the implementation of projects. The local community is the citizens and legal entities who have a permanent or current address or seat on the territory of the Local Action Group “Tutrakan Slivo Pole” /LAG/ and have a mutual interest in carrying out activities to achieve certain eligible goals. It builds on the strengths - the “assets” of the community in a social, environmental and economic aspect, instead of only compensating or partially finding a solution to the existing problems. On the territories of the two municipalities of Tutrakan and Slivo Pole, there are informed and trained individuals, representatives of a wide range of stakeholders, characteristic of the territory, who will assist and directly participate in the process of implementing the strategy. Sustainable development is a means of ensuring the well-being of Bulgarian citizens - both those living today and future generations. Guarantees for sustainable development are created with reasonable and balanced management of the population, resources and the environment.
local partnership, sustainable development, balanced governance, Local Action Group “Tutrakan Slivo Pole”/ LAG, municipalities Tutrakan Slivo Pole, ethnic groups, local economy.
NATIONAL AND EUROPEAN IDENTITY, BULGARIAN BREAD, EMBROIDERY AND SONGS. GOOD PRACTICES IN SUPPORT OF LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND TERRITORY
The Bulgarian national identity is experiencing various crises surrounding its formation. History and man are the pillars of the past, thanks to which the future is built. Man creates history while writing on its pages, and history speaks of man while he thinks about the present. Traditions bequeath the guidelines along which a community must follow in order to become a whole people. They are the ones that turn into words, and words are a story about national moments of peaks and troughs. The past of a people speaks the truths about its future. The cultural impact of stereotypes and prejudices through the transmitted communicative messages has an impact on the formation of the Bulgarian national identity. Mediated communication is marked by the signs of prejudices and stereotypes. The need for continuous confrontation with the unknown, the unknown disappears. These products of mechanical thinking are guardians of the tradition, which is the foundation of the Bulgarian national identity, they are a kind of storehouse of collective thinking and beliefs. Significant examples of the art and culture of European civilization have been and are being created in our lands. Their eternal value enriches the life of our time. They build the Bulgarian contribution to the world of cultural values. Cultural identity reflects the material and spiritual culture of every society and nation. Often it is undoubtedly a major factor in uniting the nation and a means of unifying it in times of crisis, instability and historical fluctuations. In a number of countries, instead of the concept of cultural identity, the term "socio-cultural identity" is used.
national identity, European identity, Bulgarian bread, embroidery and songs, Local Initiative Groups / LAG /, local community, traditions.
MODERN MODELS FOR PROMOTING AND POSITIONING BULGARIAN ON A LARGER SCALE IN SUPPORT OF THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TERRITORIES
Holidays, rites and rituals express certain thoughts, feelings and moods of people with the help of easily understandable and accessible to practice by every person symbolic objects, actions, words. What is characteristic and typical here is that the emphasis is evenly and at the same time very strongly on the emotional psychological impact and the formation of active force and educational impact.People get involved quite naturally and spontaneously and moral and aesthetic norms and rules are not perceived on the basis of their rational rethinking, but this is done mainly through a mental path.In customs and rites, the mood of people is most directly manifested, which is the impulsive-emotional state of the personality. Through customs, a person manifests a moral- evaluative and aesthetic attitude towards reality.The preservation of Bulgarian traditions is an important aspect of the cultural heritage of Bulgaria and is carried out through various activities and practices, passed down from generation to generation. Traditions are the heart of every community.
contemporary models, holidays, rites, generation, Bulgarian traditions, brand, European brand “Smart Rural Digital”
LINK BETWEEN FINANCING AND RESULTS OF INNOVATION IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR
The innovation process is inextricably linked to the availability of adequate funding. From the idea to the implementation of a new product, technology or method, each phase of innovation requires resources – for research, testing, equipment, training and market implementation. Funding does not just support the implementation of innovations – it is often a decisive factor in whether the innovation activity will be started at all.
financing and results of innovation in the agricultural sector.
ION-NTD INTEGRATED INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR HEAT TREATMENT PROCESS MANAGEMENT THROUGH VALUE- ORIENTED APPROACH - ARCHITECTURE AND ECONOMIC MODELING
This study examines how modern integrated information systems transform traditional heat treatment operations through a unified five-layer architecture connecting physical processes with financial performance. The research analyzes the evolution from isolated SCADA systems to integrated Manufacturing Execution System platforms based on Industry 4.0 principles. Key investigated components include architectural integration between sensor networks, supervisory systems, MES layer, ERP integration, and business intelligence layer. Special attention is given to real-time economic modeling through activity-based costing approach, which transforms static spreadsheets into dynamic calculation engines. The methodology encompasses analysis of contemporary literature from the period 2023-2025, including research on digital twins for industrial furnaces and Industry 4.0 implementations. Results demonstrate how the unified data model enables automated workflows from production order to financial reporting, eliminating information barriers. Conclusions emphasize the necessity of holistic architectural integration as a foundation for value creation in modern heat treatment enterprises.
integrated information systems, heat treatment, Industry 4.0, Manufacturing Execution System, real-time cost calculation, data architecture, IoT, digital transformation, kilowatt-hour optimization, manufacturing efficiency.
IMPACT OF SOME ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS OVER APIS MELLIFERA L. (REVIEW)
A number of factors and reasons from different directions, accumulated over the last two-three decades, led to a negative impact on the environment and threaten the existence of number of living organisms from the plant and animal world. Ones of the main problems are the increased urbanization and agriculture. Honey bee Apis mellifera L. are one of the most affected and concerned living organisms. They are under the direct influence and impact of the pesticides used in agriculture during plant protection measures. Heavy metals in the environment and acaricides used to control the mite Varroa destructor Anderson & Trueman also have a negative effect over honey bees. A number of scientific reports prove honey bees as a bioindicator of the environment. This study examines the status of A. mellifera and the impact of the environment over honey bees in modern conditions, as well as the understanding of the ecological role of A. mellifera.
honey bees, Apis mellifera, environment, pollution, ecology.
CONTROLLING AND AUDITING: HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT, MODERN TRENDS AND SUCCESFULL PRACTICES IN BULGARIA AND AROUND THE WORLD
This article focuses on the historical development, theoretical foundations, and practical implications of controlling and auditing. The analysis covers conceptual, organizational, institutional, and interinstitutional dimensions, highlighting their significance for optimizing organizational efficiency and transparency. The examination of international best practices provides workable alternatives for enhancing management control systems and audit effectiveness in corporations and public sector institutions.
controlling, auditing, management, effectiveness, transparency, organizational eficiency, strategic control, financial audit.
ENTOMOPHAGOUS AND ACAROPHAGOUS ORGANISMS – KEY BIOREGULATORS IN THE INTEGRATED PROTECTION OF GREENHOUSE CROPS
This review examines the role of entomophagous and acarophagous organisms in the biological regulation of pests in greenhouse crop production. The paper presents the main natural enemies, practical applications, and opportunities for integrating biological control with agronomic practices. The aim is to highlight approaches that contribute to more sustainable and environmentally responsible management of greenhouse systems
biological control, greenhouse pests, entomophagous species, acarophagous species, integrated pest management (IPM), sustainable agriculture.
CURRENT PROBLEMS OF THE HEALTH INSURANCE SYSTEM IN BULGARIA
This article examines the current problems faced by the health insurance system of Bulgaria in recent years. Special attention is paid to financial problems of the system, corruption practices, political influence, access to health services and their quality. The socio-economic consequences on public health, risks to the social structure, efficiency of economic results are analyzed through comparisons with other Balkan countries. At the end of the study, summaries and recommendations for reforms in the sector are made.
health insurance system, Bulgaria, comparative analysis, healthcare financing.
Human history is rarely a smooth, linear process. It unfolds as a series of ups and downs, as successive epochs separated by catastrophes – political, economic, environmental, cultural. It is these faults that give the historical narrative its dynamism.
SPECIFICITIES OF FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT IN HEALTHCARE
This paper examines the current problems and challenges facing risk management in healthcare. The main types of risk in the sector are identified and analyzed. Special attention is paid to the specifics of operational, clinical, strategic and financial risk management in hospitals. The emphasis is on creating a modern financial risk management system applying the Enterprise risk management approach and its advantages..
IDENTIFYING AND TREATING HEALTHCARE RISKS
The article examines in detail the practical aspects of risk management in healthcare organizations. It presents modern approaches to managing the various types of risk encountered in the healthcare sector. Special attention is paid to the identification and treatment of preventable, external and strategic risks in hospitals. A matrix for the quantitative assessment of preventable risks in healthcare with an assessment of residual risk has been created using real data from an anonymous hospital in Bulgaria..
matrix for quantitative assessment of preventable risks.
THE ROLE OF BENEFICIAL INSECTS IN THE BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF PESTS IN GREENHOUSE PRODUCTION
Maintaining plant health in greenhouse systems is a challenge that requires integrated pest management strategies, minimizing chemical use, and preserving ecosystem balance. Biological control, through the use of natural enemies of pests-predators, parasitoids, and entomopathogenic microorganisms is a key component of these strategies. This approach reduces the risk of resistance development, minimizes adverse effects on non-target organisms, and enhances food safety and quality. The article discusses the main methods of applying biocontrol agents: introduction, seasonal colonization, and conservation, as well as the factors influencing their effectiveness. Specific examples of successful biological control of major pests, such as whiteflies, thrips, and aphids, using predatory mites, bugs, and lacewings are presented. The importance of an integrated approach-including monitoring, use of resistant cultivars, agronomic practices, and environmentally friendly measures is emphasized for sustainable and safe production of high-quality vegetables in greenhouses.
BIOLOGICAL CONTROL WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT
Biological control represents a sustainable and ecological approach to pest management through the use of natural predators, parasites, pathogens, and other living organisms. This article examines the core principles, methods, and concepts of biological control, including the classical, augmentative, and conservation approaches. The historical development of the term, its role within Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and the environmental advantages of biological over chemical control are also discussed. A comprehensive overview is presented of the application of biological control in modern agriculture and its significance for sustainable development and environmental protection.
ECONOMIC IMPACT OF TUTRAKAN-SLIVO POLE LAG ON BUSINESS AND AGRICULTURAL SECTOR AS A RESULT OF THE APPLICATION OF THE CLLD APPROACH
The territory of Тutrakan – Slivo Pole LAG can be prosperous settlements through socially, environmentally and economically sustainable agriculture; through diversification of the economic structure; through promotion of entrepreneurship in rural areas, including social entrepreneurship; through stimulation of remote work; through promotion of rural tourism and other forms of alternative tourism. LAGs have the complex task and enormous challenge of preserving rural territories, encouraging rural areas to seek new ways to become or remain competitive, to make the most of their resources and to overcome the challenges they face such as an aging population, low quality of service provision or lack of employment opportunities. Targeted interventions are needed to support young people, as well as their participation in the life of local communities and in the decision-making process; addressing the need for investment in educational infrastructure; improving the image of rural areas and promoting synergies with urban areas; overcoming high levels of domestic crime and protecting agricultural property; improving the quality of life through culture and spiritual development.
Community-led Local Development (CLLD) Strategy
Tutrakan Slivo Pole LAG (Local Action Group)
CONTROLLING AND AUDITING: HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT, MODERN TRENDS, AND SUCCESSFUL PRACTICES IN BULGARIA AND AROUND THE WORLD
This article examines the historical development, theoretical foundations, and practical implications of controlling and auditing. The analysis covers conceptual, organizational, institutional, and interinstitutional dimensions, highlighting their significance for optimizing organizational efficiency and transparency. The review of international best practices provides insights for enhancing management control systems and audit effectiveness in both corporate and public sector institutions.
DIGITAL LOCAL COMMUNITY - INNOVATION FOR VIBRANT RURAL AREAS. DIGITAL HUB AND MOBILE APPLICATION FOR PROMOTING RURAL TERRITORIES
Digitalization in the 21st century has changed the lives of local communities, penetrating their daily lives and all sectors of development. However, digital tools and methods for promoting products have not yet effectively entered rural areas as carriers of new economic opportunities, improving the quality of life and promoting local resources. They are not yet used as a useful tool for promoting products, brands, activities, landmarks, etc. characteristic of local territories and communities. At the same time, the popularity of reviving traditional Bulgarian values, getting to know the rural lifestyle, daily life and culture, which are still preserved in an authentic form in Bulgarian villages, is growing. Brand positioning on social networks gives another valuable advantage - connecting with the audience and building a community of loyal customers. To contribute to the immediate feeling of interaction with products, we can be inspired by the most frequently asked questions of consumers related to them.
EMERGENCE OF HUMAN CAPITAL THEORY. MODERN CONCEPTS OF HUMAN CAPITAL
Human capital is a term that has gained prominence in recent years. Organizations view human resources as important capital and emphasize their selection, management, and development, because their success depends on their qualifications, skills, and abilities. Today, human capital can be defined as the sum of knowledge, skills, competencies, talent, opportunities, abilities, strengths, good health, accumulated experience, and motivation that a given person possesses. But to arrive at this generalized definition, let's try to trace the formation of human capital theory through the centuries.
DEGLOBALIZATION, SLOWBALIZATION AND TRANSFORMATION OF THE GLOBAL ECONOMIC ORDER: THE END OF NEOLIBERALISM
In recent decades, globalization has established itself as a leading process determining economic, political and cultural interactions on a global scale. The dominant framework in which this process developed was neoliberalism – an ideology and practice based on the principle of free markets, deregulation, privatization and limiting state intervention in the economy. However, since the beginning of the 21st century, there has been an accumulation of systemic tensions that are gradually undermining the foundations of the neoliberal global order. This article analyzes the processes of deglobalization in the context of the decline of the neoliberal paradigm that has dominated the global economic and political order since the end of the 20th century. The main research question is whether the observed manifestations of deglobalization represent a temporary deviation, conditioned by successive global crises, or evidence a structural transition beyond neoliberalism. The theoretical framework is based on liberal, realist and critical approaches in international political economy, with particular attention to the conceptual contributions of K. Polanyi and I. Wallerstein. The methodology includes historical and comparative analysis, drawing on statistical indicators, international reports and peer-reviewed academic research. The empirical analysis shows that the 2008 financial crisis, the deepening of social inequalities, the COVID-19 pandemic and current geopolitical conflicts accelerate the breakdown of global value chains, stimulate the revival of protectionism and catalyze processes of regionalization. These trends erode the foundations of the neoliberal global order, built on the primacy of free trade, deregulation and minimized state intervention. The conclusion supports the thesis that deglobalization should be viewed not as a cyclical phenomenon, but as an indicator of a transition to a new, multipolar and post-neoliberal world order. The consequences of this transformation pose significant challenges to international institutions and nation-states, while simultaneously revealing the potential for alternative political and economic models.
USE OF EXPERT METHODS FOR RISK MANAGEMENT
Risk management is an inevitable part of decision-making processes in any organization. The present article examines the use of expert methods as a main tool for assessing, identifying, and minimizing risks under conditions of uncertainty. The essence, types, and application of expert methods in different fields are presented, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR CLUSTERING AND ASSOCIATIONS ON THE TERRITORY OF LYASKOVETS-STRAZITSA LAG
The approach of association and clustering in the agricultural and non-agricultural sector is not yet widely used, due to various factors and limitations. The need to promote various forms of business cooperation to improve efficiency, competitiveness, introduce innovations and improve access to markets. An effective step for this is the promotion of partnership, association and clustering, through a system of interconnected and complementary measures at the local level. One of the most comprehensive definitions of clusters is that of Michael Porter. According to it, clusters encompass a large set of specialized suppliers, service companies, vertically and horizontally related industries, manufacturers of complementary products, specialized infrastructure providers, government agencies and other institutions that provide specialized services such as training, education, market research, as well as technical support.
Lyaskovets - Strazhitsa LAG (Local Action Group)
RISK MANAGEMENT. STAGES OF THE RISK MANAGEMENT PROCESS
Risk is present in every aspect of life – in the economy, in technology, in the environment, and in our everyday activities. Risk management is a process that has increasingly taken a central role in the operations of modern organizations. It provides a systematic way of planning, analysis, and decision-making aimed at reducing adverse consequences for organizations. This paper analyzes risk management within organizations and outlines the key stages of the process. Successful leaders must understand the essence of risk, the principal stages of the risk management process, and in addition, train their employees in this field. They must also develop a comprehensive risk management strategy to ensure survival and sustainable growth.
THEORY OF FINANCING INNOVATION ACTIVITIES IN SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR
Social economy and social enterprises have significant potential to provide high-quality employment in areas such as energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, organic agriculture, ecotourism, or circular economy activities related to reuse, repair, and recycling. Developing effective strategies for the growth of social eco-enterprises, as well as raising awareness of opportunities, can stimulate entrepreneurship. Encouraging Entrepreneurship Access to financing poses a challenge for every startup, and enterprises engaged in green economy activities are no exception. The Commission, along with the European Investment Bank, has established the Natural Capital Financing Facility to support projects utilizing such capital, including small innovative enterprises focused on biodiversity and climate change adaptation. Due to the recent growth in microfinance activities in Europe, over 30% of microcredit providers now offer microcredits for the green economy, with another 10% in the process of developing such credits.
sustainable growth through energy-efficient production in the agricultural sector.
This paper examines organizational change as an inevitable process in today’s dynamic environment and focuses on the strategies used to manage it effectively. It analyzes the external and internal forces driving change and identifies three primary types of transformation: adaptive, innovative, and radically renewing change. Based on these types, five strategic approaches are presented: directive, negotiation-based, normative, analytical, and action-oriented strategies. The paper also explores models for strategic development—reactive, actively specialized, and systematically proactive—as well as the concept of real-time change. It identifies key factors influencing the choice of strategy, including the level of resistance, change tempo, leadership dynamics, and information requirements. The study emphasizes the role of the manager in making flexible, informed, and timely decisions to ensure successful adaptation and innovation.
Copyright (c) 2025 New knowledge Journal of science
THE IMPACT OF MIGRATION PROCESSES ON THE LABOR MARKET IN BULGARIA
This study explores the impact of migration processes on Bulgaria’s labor market in the context of demographic change, socio-economic transformation, and the globalization of labor. It analyzes the negative effects of ongoing emigration — including population decline, brain drain, and structural unemployment — as well as the potential positive contributions of return migration and the inflow of foreign labor. The research examines the challenges faced by institutions and policies in employment, integration, and human capital development. It provides recommendations for more flexible and targeted measures to ensure the sustainable development of the labor market.
GREEN ECONOMY AS A TOOL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: CONCEPTS, CHALLENGES AND PERSPECTIVES
This study explores the essence and role of the green economy as a strategic tool for achieving sustainable development in the context of modern global challenges – climate change, economic instability, social inequality, and ecosystem degradation. It analyzes the historical roots of the concept, its connections to physiocracy, Keynesianism, and modern ecological theories. Special attention is given to international definitions and approaches – UN, OECD, EU – as well as specific mechanisms such as green jobs, resource efficiency, and low-carbon transformation. The paper substantiates the necessity for a global transition toward a green economy where social equity, environmental sustainability, and economic efficiency are considered interdependent. Conclusions are drawn regarding the future development of green economy theory and practice.
THE ROLE OF NON-MATERIAL INCENTIVES IN EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION AND PERFORMANCE
This paper explores non-material incentives as a key driver of employee engagement, satisfaction, and productivity. While financial rewards remain important, long-term motivation is deeply rooted in the individual’s need for recognition, growth, and a sense of belonging. The study analyzes different forms of non-material motivation – from recognition programs and training to corporate culture and flexible work conditions – and their impact on employee retention and performance. It highlights modern human resource management approaches and practical examples that demonstrate the strategic importance of non-material incentives in building effective employer-employee relations.
MODEL OF AUTHENTIC LEADERSHIP: CHARACTERISTICS, COMPONENTS AND APPLICATION IN ORGANIZATIONAL PRACTICE
The article presents the development and empirical validation of a seven-component model of authentic leadership, designed in alignment with contemporary organizational dynamics in Bulgaria. The process follows several stages: theoretical framework analysis, identification of key leadership attitudes and behaviors, qualitative research through expert interviews, and synthesis of the final model. The quantitative phase includes data from 255 participants who evaluated the importance of each component, allowing for ranking within the leadership profile. The highest-rated components were reliability and integrity, commitment to selfimprovement, and self-awareness. The paper concludes with a discussion on the practical applications of the model in leadership training, coaching practices, and organizational diagnostics.
SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THROUGH GREEN ECONOMY: INVESTMENTS, MOBILITY, AND AGRICULTURE IN BULGARIA AND THE EU
This paper explores the role of the green economy as a model for sustainable development amidst contemporary economic challenges in the European Union. It examines specific areas for environmentally sound economic progress, including investments in renewable energy, electric mobility, and agriculture. The study highlights EU initiatives and green financing opportunities aimed at fostering social responsibility and environmental sustainability. The research underscores the need for synergy between economic efficiency and environmental conservation by integrating new technologies and behavior models into economic activities.