https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/4761 2026-10-28T21:29:53Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150376 Title: Organisational security management in the TSL sector in the context of contemporary threats Authors: Grudniewski, Tomasz; Ciekanowski, Zbigniew; Wołejszo, Jarosław; Parczewski, Rafał; Chrząszcz, Aneta; Drapikowska, Barbara Abstract: PURPOSE: The aim of this article is to identify and analyse the key determinants of integrated security management in companies operating in the transport, freight forwarding and logistics (TSL) sector, and to develop an original security management model integrating risk management, operational security, information security, cybersecurity, personnel safety and business continuity management, with a view to enhancing organisational resilience and the efficiency of logistics processes.; DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The article addresses the following research question: How does integrating key areas of safety management increase the organisational resilience of enterprises in the TSL sector? A research hypothesis was formulated, according to which the implementation of an integrated safety management model encompassing risk management, operational safety, information security, cybersecurity, personnel safety and business continuity management contributes to increasing organisational resilience and improving the operational effectiveness of companies in the TSL sector. The research employed a method of critical analysis and synthesis of the relevant literature, an analysis of international management standards (ISO 31000, ISO 28000, ISO 22301 and ISO/IEC 27001), an analysis of selected industry reports, and a method of conceptual modelling.; FINDINGS: The analysis demonstrated that effective security management in TSL sector enterprises requires integrating risk management, operational security, cybersecurity, information security, personnel security, and business continuity management into a single management system. The developed model enables comprehensive threat identification, supports the decision-making process and enhances the organisational resilience of enterprises.; PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The proposed model can serve as a tool to support management in the TSL sector in designing and improving security management systems. Its application may contribute to improving business continuity, reducing risk levels and increasing the efficiency of logistics and transport processes.; ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The article's originality lies in the development of a proprietary integrated safety management model for companies in the TSL sector, which integrates strategic, operational, and supporting areas of safety into a single management system. The model contributes to the development of research on organisational security and may serve as a basis for further empirical research into the assessment of its effectiveness in business practice. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150372 Title: Opportunities and threats of using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) in improving national security culture Authors: Nowacki, Gabriel; Bolz, Katarzyna Abstract: PURPOSE: This article examines the opportunities and threats associated with the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the context of national security culture. It aims to identify how UAV technology influences the resilience of national security systems and to propose preventive, systemic solutions that strengthen security culture through the integration of legal, organizational, and technological mechanisms.; DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The study adopts a systems-based analytical framework combining systems analysis, normative and legal analysis, desk research, and a conceptual case study of the proprietary UAVOcheck application. The findings are further supported by a secondary analysis of qualitative data from 15 in-depth expert interviews conducted between 2022 and 2024 with specialists representing the aviation, regulatory, operational, and national security sectors.; FINDINGS: The results demonstrate the dual nature of UAV technology. While drones significantly enhance operational capabilities, situational awareness, crisis response, and critical infrastructure monitoring, they also generate new risks related to airspace violations, asymmetric threats, operator anonymity, and regulatory gaps. The study identifies the technology distribution stage as a critical but underdeveloped element of preventive security policy.; PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The article proposes integrating preventive verification mechanisms into the UAV sales process through the UAVOcheck application. Such solutions can improve operator accountability, strengthen regulatory compliance, reduce systemic vulnerabilities, and enhance national resilience to emerging security threats.; ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The study introduces a preventive, systems-oriented perspective to national security culture by extending security responsibility beyond public institutions to include commercial stakeholders. It contributes an original conceptual model that incorporates the technology distribution stage into national security infrastructure and presents UAVOcheck as an innovative preventive instrument supporting security by design. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150370 Title: Renewable energy sources and green transformation : mapping research trends, policies, and financial instruments Authors: Zioło, Magdalena; Bąk, Iwona; Spoz, Anna Abstract: PURPOSE: This study provides a comprehensive overview of research on the role of renewable energy sources (RES) in the green transformation of economies. It identifies major research trends, thematic areas, and the role of financial mechanisms, including subsidies, tax incentives, and investments, in supporting the transition to low-carbon economies.; DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A systematic literature review based on Snyder's framework was conducted using Web of Science publications (2006-2025). Bibliometric and multivariate methods, including VOSviewer keyword co-occurrence analysis, Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA), and Ward's hierarchical clustering, were applied to identify thematic clusters and research patterns.; FINDINGS: Scientific interest in renewable energy has grown significantly, particularly after 2020. Three thematic clusters emerged: renewable energy technologies, EU energy policy and security, and sustainable development with energy transition. Three publication groups focused on financial support mechanisms, green technologies outside Europe, and European transition strategies. Financial instruments increasingly complement technological innovation and policy measures in advancing energy transition.; PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The findings support policymakers, financial institutions, investors, and researchers by identifying effective financing instruments, research priorities, and policy directions for sustainable energy transition.; ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The study advances literature by integrating the financial dimension into bibliometric research on renewable energy and green transformation, highlighting interactions among innovation, financing mechanisms, and public policy. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150367 Title: Economic and energy assessment of the use of wind microturbines in selected areas of Poland : a case study Authors: Matuszak, Zbigniew; Żabińska, Iwona; Gaworski, Maksym Abstract: PURPOSE: A presentation of the economic assessment and actual performance of low-voltage small-scale wind power installations with a total height not exceeding 3 meters.; DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: An assessment of the technical and economic feasibility of implementing residential micro-wind installations up to 3 meters in height in national prosumer systems using horizontal-axis (HAWT) and verticalaxis (VAWT) turbines designed for microscale electrical installations. The analysis examined the impact of the near-surface wind layer on the energy and economic performance of mini wind turbines. An economic analysis of the investment costs of mini wind turbines for two locations in Poland was presented. Findings: It has been shown that vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs) are more practical in densely built-up areas than their horizontal-axis counterparts (HAWTs). Although VAWTs have a slightly lower theoretical energy conversion efficiency, their ability to operate in variable and turbulent wind conditions without the need for constant directional adjustment ensures more stable energy production throughout the year. This is particularly important in near-surface conditions, where wind speeds are limited and the turbine can start operating even at low wind speeds. Local atmospheric and terrain conditions have a decisive impact on the actual performance of the analysed installations. Simulations conducted for two different regions of Poland indicate that in areas with higher wind speeds, such as the coast, annual energy production can reach levels that enable a rapid return on investment—even within about 5 years with the support of subsidy programs. In contrast, in the central parts of the country, where average wind speeds are lower, mini-turbines serve as a supplement to other energy sources rather than a standalone solution, due to the reduction in wind speed caused by the ruggedness of the terrain.; PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The results presented here can be used during the planning phase of small wind turbine projects to assess their economic and energy-related viability.; ORIGINALITY/VALUE: It has been demonstrated that mini wind turbines can complement photovoltaic systems, creating hybrid systems with greater stability. Their peak production occurs during the fall and winter months, when photovoltaic panels generate the least amount of energy, which improves the overall energy balance and supports sustainable development goals. Low-voltage mini wind turbines with limited height represent a promising option for the decentralization of energy production in Poland. Along with rising costs of traditional energy sources and regulatory support, they can contribute to increasing the energy self-sufficiency of individual users, thereby supporting the development of sustainable local energy structures. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z