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If you can start a journey, you’re halfway there: on how the literature on the study of territorial agglomerations and sustainability has co-evolved

Author

Listed:
  • José María Fernández-Yáñez

    (Universitat Jaume I)

  • Beatriz Forés

    (Universitat Jaume I)

  • Andreas Kallmuenzer

    (Excelia Business School)

  • Veland Ramadani

    (South East European University)

Abstract

This research conducts a theoretical literature review on firm territorial agglomerations, assessing whether scientific contributions have addressed sustainability-related aspects, how these aspects have co-evolved with the field, and their impact on firms’ competitiveness within the contemporary business paradigm. To fulfill this objective, a comprehensive literature review based on objective criteria was carried out through bibliometric analysis using one of the most prestigious scientific databases: the Clarivate Web of Science. Based on the literature reviewed and the empirical evidence, there are important research gaps on aspects related to sustainability in companies located in territorial agglomerations of firms. Therefore, we propose new lines to be covered by future research. We also add a succinct list of implications for practitioners and policymakers for the implementation of more sustainable regional policies.

Suggested Citation

  • José María Fernández-Yáñez & Beatriz Forés & Andreas Kallmuenzer & Veland Ramadani, 2025. "If you can start a journey, you’re halfway there: on how the literature on the study of territorial agglomerations and sustainability has co-evolved," The Annals of Regional Science, Springer;Western Regional Science Association, vol. 74(1), pages 1-34, March.
  • Handle: RePEc:spr:anresc:v:74:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1007_s00168-024-01341-7
    DOI: 10.1007/s00168-024-01341-7
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    JEL classification:

    • M1 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration
    • O2 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Development Planning and Policy
    • Q56 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environment and Development; Environment and Trade; Sustainability; Environmental Accounts and Accounting; Environmental Equity; Population Growth

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