Introduction
Sustainable development is important not only as a solution to problems of the present but also as a strategy for the future of our planet. In the face of global challenges, such as climate change, economic crises or public health threats, we need to make informed and responsible decisions taking into account the overall impact of our activities on the social, economic and natural environment. For this to happen, it is necessary to continue public and scientific discourse regarding sustainable development and to promote policies and initiatives that support it.
In the context of challenges such as the war in Ukraine and digital transformation, sustainable development is key to ensuring socio-economic stability. In particular, this means that decisions made at micro and macro levels need to strive for a balance between economic, social and environmental considerations. For example, when analysing the effects of the war on the Ukrainian economy and the growing importance of digital technologies, one cannot forget the role played by sustainable development as a pillar of a long-term development strategy. The articles presented in this volume address some of these challenges.
Their authors focus on various aspects of sustainable development, ranging from an analysis of regional economic inequalities in Ukraine (S. Ishuchuk), through risk reporting in business (K. Barczyk), to the role of banks in supporting activities which are in line with ESG principles (Ł. Dwojak). The task of building a sustainable future requires good relationships with stakeholders and properly trained employees in cyber security (M. Fuksiewicz); it is also associated with the development of artificial intelligence (Ł. Makowski). Given the changing needs and expectations of consumers and employees and the changing realities of education, there is a need for new solutions to support sustainable socio-economic development. (W. Ilnicka, R, Grabiec). In order to a build knowledge-based society capable of innovation, it is crucial to find ways in which students can be motivated to choose technical and engineering fields (Wojtowicz, Wachnicka).
All these areas require cooperation and involvement of various stakeholder groups who can jointly create a safe future based on sustainable development. The articles included in this issue are likely to prove useful not only to scientists, but also to students and practitioners interested in the concept of sustainable development and its applications to ensure the socio-economic stability and protect the natural environment in the face of the challenges of the modern world.