Global Business Team Projects, GlobalMBA Cohort 2023/24

Green Energy Transition in Europe – A Comparative Analysis of Renewable Energy Industry Development

Patricia Fuchs, Alexys Mead, Savannah Lewis, Jael Thoß, Zuzanna Wójcik

This comprehensive thesis examines the renewable energy landscape primarily in the EU, focusing on solar, wind, and hydropower industries. The analysis focuses on how the EU can further develop its competitiveness in the mentioned sectors while reducing overall dependency on third-party countries, namely China, which currently leads in much of the renewable energy supply chain. Through a detailed PEST analysis, the thesis highlights the different maturity stages and unique challenges each industry faces. Ultimately, the research proposes that rather than directly competing with China, the EU can focus on the sustainability of the supply chain and apply game theory to the implementation of circular economy and recycling considerations.

Green Banking and Sustainable Investment in the USA

Maxime Burggraf, Maksym Dżegan, Irina Norkina

This thesis investigates the role of U.S. banks in promoting environmental sustainability through green banking and sustainable investments, analyzing how financial institutions can either sustain fossil fuel reliance or facilitate a sustainable transition. As climate change accelerates, banks face growing pressure to support green finance, yet challenges such as misaligned profit motives, limited green product offerings, and regulatory ambiguities persist. This study assesses these barriers, explores regulatory and market dynamics within the U.S. green finance landscape, and examines how these factors influence banks’ strategies. Through a case study on the New York Green Bank, the research contrasts traditional banks with a dedicated green finance institution, showcasing successful models for incorporating sustainable practices and addressing climate goals. The findings suggest that, although still in their early stages, green financial institutions are not only capable of generating profits while meeting environmental goals, but also of initiating a green transformation within specific economic sectors.

The Role of Agricultural Technologies in the Ethiopian Coffee Industry: An Analysis of Opportunities and Challenges

Luka Alnoch, Grant Gutierrez, Phuong ‚Nat‘ Tran, Sophia Weinberger

Ethiopia’s coffee industry is an important part of the country’s economy and supports the livelihood of many Ethiopians. However, the sector faces major challenges, with the adverse effects of climate change being the most serious threat. Smallholder farmers, who dominate production and are already at a disadvantage within the coffee value chain, are particularly affected. The coffee value chain involves numerous actors, such as farmers, processors, traders, corporations, organizations and governments, each offering different perspectives and potential improvement. This study applies a holistic innovation systems approach to analyze the mechanisms and points of innovation within the sector. Government agencies, research institutions, and international organizations play a crucial role by providing essential knowledge and funding. Emerging agricultural technologies, such as precision coffee-growing techniques, offer promising solutions to improve efficiency, quality and sustainability. However, agricultural technology alone cannot transform Ethiopia’s coffee sector. Implementation of advanced technologies is limited due to insufficient technological infrastructure and funding. A coordinated effort among the Ethiopian government, international organizations, research institutes, and private actors is essential to drive sustainable and resilient growth in Ethiopia's coffee sector.