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ISSN:2325-6192 (print)

ISSN:2325-6206 (online)

Volume 11 (2023)

Volume 11, Issue 2New
Volume 11, Issue 1

Volume 10 (2022)

Volume 10, Issue 4
Volume 10, Issue 3
Volume 10, Issue 2
Volume 10, Issue 1

Volume 9 (2021)

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Volume 8 (2020)

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Volume 7 (2019)

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Volume 6 (2018)

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Volume 5 (2017)

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Volume 4 (2016)

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Volume 3 (2015)

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Volume 2 (2014)

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Volume 1 (2013)

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Volume 1, Issue 1

Journal of Environmental Accounting and Management

JEAM Volume 1, Issue 1

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Analysis of the scientific collaboration patterns in the Emergy Accounting field: A review of the co-authorship network structure

pp. 1-13 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.01.001

Gengyuan Liu, Zhifeng Yang, Bin Chen, and Sergio Ulgiati

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Abstract

Using Social network analysis techniques, the authors visualize the co-authorship network and provide descriptive statistics regarding the degree to which researchers are embedded in it. The aim of this paper is to point out three issues including: (1) the use and quantification of international bibliographic databases; (2) Social Network Analysis and interpreting merits; and (3) visualization and the analysis of coauthorship networks for co-authorship data. The results showed that there was a strong linear relationship between the number of papers published and an author’s h-index. And the co-author network displayed the following features: with medium connected groups of authors; the network density is low; many sparse ties since there are still observed isolated authors or simple clusters in the network; and a medium propensity to collaborate with co-authors. Such an understanding is a necessary pre-requisite to establish an information flow and collaboration pattern among authors involved in the progress of the emergy accounting field.

Sustainability ethics and metrics: Strategies for damage control and prevention

pp. 15-24 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.01.002

Noam Lior

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Abstract

It is generally and increasingly believed that humanity’s survival depends on adoption of sustainable development practices, which are based on adequate satisfaction of quantitatively defined and interrelated economical, environmental and social criteria. One can then argue that sustainable development has a meta-ethical foundation, a definition of right and wrong paths stemming from what one might consider a Universal Truth that is humanity’s desire to survive. One finds that “sustainability” is very much in vogue as a positive attribute, and more and more extensively used erratically and often improperly and even fraudulently over the entire social spectrum. Since sustainability is of vital importance to our survival, using its terminology in vain diminishes its vitally important value by desensitizing society and sowing distrust. Importantly, unethical usage of sustainability concepts causes much harm to the development of credible sustainability science. This paper briefly defines sustainability and its quantitative metrics, presents examples of ongoing ethical and unethical use of the concept, and recommends a path towards damage control that includes the development of internationally acceptable standards for that vital concept.

Keeping the books for the environment and society: The unification of emergy and financial accounting methods

pp. 25-41 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.01.003

Daniel E. Campbell

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Abstract

Development of the concept of emergy established a medium for accounting that made it possible to express economic and environmental work of all kinds on a common basis as solar emjoules. Environmental accounting using emdollars, a combined emergy-monetary unit, can be used to produce a single income statement and balance sheet giving comprehensive accounts for the economy, society, and the environment that can be expressed on a single income statement and balance sheet. At present, emergy accounting is rapidly developing and this paper uses well-known methods from financial accounting and bookkeeping to guide the further development of emergy accounting methods. The important concept of environmental liability is defined and a conceptual basis for applying this idea in ecologicaleconomic systems is presented in the form of an Energy Systems Language model. Four categories of environmental debt are recognized and a scheme for payment of these debts is proposed based on the criterion that economic production be sustainable. Also, a system of double entry emergy and money bookkeeping is proposed, which uses a combined emergy and money journal, separate emergy and money ledgers with this data transferred to a unified emdollar balance sheet to keep one set of books for the environment and the economy. Further development, testing, and adoption of environmental accounting tools like the ones proposed here will allow governments and managers to finally determine the true solvency (i.e., the ability to pay economic, social and environmental debts) and therefore the sustainability of the firms and economic systems for which they are responsible.

Multi-scale input-output analysis for multiple responsibility entities: Carbon emission by urban economy in Beijing 2007

pp. 43-54 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.01.004

Shan Guo and G.Q. Chen

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Abstract

In ecological accounting for various responsibility entities, embodied ecological endowment fluxes across the local system boundary have different mitigation implications. A framework for the multi-scale input-output analysis is presented in this article to support ecological accounting for mitigation policy making by global, domestic and local responsibility entities. A case study for carbon emissions by the urban economy in Beijing 2007 is made to compare corresponding perspectives. With intensive tertiary industry, the urban economy is revealed as a net carbon emission importer.

Carbon footprint and life cycle assessment of organizations

pp. 55-63 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.01.005

Matthias Finkbeiner, Paul König

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Abstract

When analyzing the environmental performance of products, it has become standard practice to use a life cycle perspective. For organizations (e.g. companies) such a life cycle or supply chain oriented assessment is not yet established as common practice. The discussions on the carbon footprint of organizations and the development of the so-called ‘supply chain’- or ‘scope 3’-standard of the GHG-Protocol promoted the future use of such an approach. At the level of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) a project has just been launched to develop an LCA standard for Organizations (ISO 14072), which will address the full set of environmental interventions, not only greenhouse gases. This paper proposes a corporate environmental footprint assessment methodology by adapting the mandatory elements (“shalls”) of ISO 14044 from products to organizations. Most requirements are applicable on both the product and organizational level, such as impact assessment, reporting and review requirements. Others were partially adapted from ISO 14044, such as system boundary or allocation procedures. A third group of aspects like e.g. comparisons based on a common function, i.e. product and service portfolio, were identified as methodological challenges. As far as the data demand is concerned, it was interesting to find that even the corporate accounting approach needs product level data and in that respect does not differ from the traditional life cycle approach.

Environmental performance and biophysical constrains of Italian agriculture across time and space scales

pp. 65-83 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.01.006

Amalia Zucaro, Salvatore Mellino, Patrizia Ghisellini, Silvio Viglia

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Abstract

This paper evaluates the resource use and environmental performance of the Italian agricultural sector across levels, from local (selected olive, lemon and grape farms), through regional (Campania region) up to the national scale (whole Italy). An assessment over time (from 1985 to 2010) was performed in order to investigate how the demand for environmental support changed in the last twenty-five years. The performance indicators were calculated by using the Emergy Synthesis method in order to ascertain the emergy investment per unit of product (dry-mass, available energy, monetary value) as well as the overall sustainability of the process. Results point out both a decrease of renewability (%REN) and a higher dependence from imported resources (high Environmental Loading Ratio, ELR and low Emergy Yield Ratio, EYR) at all the scales investigated. The main factors affecting such indicators are the choice of crops mix, machinery use, climate conditions (mainly rainfall), market value of products, direct and indirect labor. A scenario analysis was implemented based on increased resource use efficiency in order to assess the sustainability improvement potential of the agricultural system.

GLOBAL GOLD MINING: Is technological learning overcoming the declining in ore grades?

pp. 85-101 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.01.007

Adriana Domínguez, Alicia Valero

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Abstract

Future availability of mineral resources is influenced by two opposed facts. On the one hand, general trends suggest a long-term decline in ore grade, which increases energy consumption in mining industry. But on the other hand there have been technological transitions that might avert rises in energy consumption. The aim of this paper is to become acquainted if technological breakthroughs that have occurred can preclude the rising energy demand for the gold mining industry. As experience is acquired, material and energy efficiency increase and technical changes can be expressed through the so called learning curves. Accordingly, the learning curve approach is applied to several data sets of 17 major gold producing countries. Our results show that technological learning is as dependent on ore grade as it is on mining operation and recovery processes. Applying the learning curve method we obtain average progress ratios varying from +20% to -22%. This survey allows us to have a better understanding of the mining sector and the outcomes of technology evolution together with ore grade declining by means of identifying best mining practices around the world.

JEAM Volume 1, Issue 2

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Accounting for the emergy value of life cycle inventory systems: insights from recent methodological advances

pp. 103-117 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.05.001

Damien Arbault, Benedetto Rugani, Antonino Marvuglia, Ligia Tiruta-Barna, and Enrico Benetto

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Abstract

Emergy, due to its unique ability to translate into a single metric the memory of the geobiosphere exergy (environmental work) supporting any (technological or natural) system, has the potential to offer a new perspective of environmental assessment to support decision-making. Previous work by a number of researchers has pointed out the expected advantages of taking a hybrid approach combining Emergy Evaluation (EME) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). In particular, emergy calculation using Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) databases and LCA matrix-based formulation is claimed to have the potential to increase the reliability of emergy-based evaluations and thereby the applicability of the emergy concept in environmental decision-making. The paper points out the main obstacles to overcome in order to reach this consistent integration, highlighting the progresses made so far in this direction, until the most recent practical and operational advancements.

Measuring energy security—An urban perspective

pp. 119-128 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.05.002

Jin Yang and Bin Chen

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Abstract

Due to concurrent crises of energy and environment in urban areas, a systematic evaluation of urban energy security status is needed to construct a resource-saving and environmental-friendly society. This paper established an evaluation framework from the perspectives of energy supply, energy consumption, social-economic condition, environmental impact, and climate change. A modified grey relational analysis was also proposed to quantify the energy security degree of a city. The framework was then applied to Chongqing City to evaluate its energy security status during 2005—2010. Results showed that the security level of Chongqing kept increasing from 2005 to 2009. Due to the low energy security coefficient of the energy supply and climate change subsystem, a dramatic decline of energy security degree was observed in 2010. Finally, suggestions on the construction of secure energy system in Chongqing were put forward to shed light on policy making.

Life cycle assessment-based urban energy structure optimization: Model estab-lishment and scenario analysis

pp. 129-145 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.05.003

Chen Chen and Meirong Su

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Abstract

Energy structure optimization is vital for urban sustainable development. In this study, a multi-objective model is developed to allocate various energy resources in various urban sectors under various scenarios, aiming to minimize the total system cost, environmental impact, and energy consumption. The environmental impact incurred during the energy lifecycle, including energy production, transportation, and consumption, is evaluated using the lifecycle assessment method. The economic loss of environmental pollution during the energy lifecycle is also incorporated in the economic objective. The model is applied to Beijing, in which four energy resources (coal, oil, natural gas, and electricity) are distributed among six sectors (agriculture, industry, construction, transportation, commerce, and household). Three scenarios are formulated from the base case scenario: i.e., the energy structure adjustment scenario, the energy structure adjustment with low carbon emission scenario, and the energy structure adjustment with low carbon emission and industrial structure adjustment scenario. The results indicate a decline in the proportion of coal to total energy consumption and an increase in the corresponding proportion for the other resources. It is concluded that further increasing the utilization of natural gas and electricity while reducing coal consumption, controlling energy consumption in industry, and strengthening carbon emission restrictions will help achieve more effective and eco-friendly energy use patterns based on a comparison of the environmental impact and economic loss of pollution under all scenarios. The optimization model could provide support for the planning and management of urban energy systems.

Exergy Replacement Cost of Mineral Resources

pp. 147-158 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.05.004

Alicia Valero, Antonio Valero, and Adriana Domínguez

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Abstract

This paper appraises the energy requirements for mineral production through an exergy approach taking into account the long-term decline in ore grades. In this context, the exergy replacement costs are defined as the exergy required for restoring mineral resources from a complete dispersed state where no deposits exist into the same conditions in which they were delivered by the ecosystems with the available technology. The exergy replacement cost is the point of reference in order to evaluate in a single variable, characteristics such as composition, concentration (ore grade) and the state of technology of mineral resources. With empirical data of energy requirements in mining as a function of the ore grade, the exergy replacement costs of cobalt, copper, gold, nickel and uranium are obtained. Additionally, a general expression of mining energy vs. ore grade is derived for those mineral commodities where no empirical data is available.

Wealth, trade and the environment: Carrying capacity, economic performance and wellbeing in Brazil and Italy

pp. 159-188 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.05.005

Lucas Pereira , Amalia Zucaro, Enrique Ortega, and Sergio Ulgiati

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Abstract

Time series analyses have been proven to be useful in capturing tendencies of country’s economical behavior. The aim of this work is to investigate and compare time series of Brazilian and Italian economies on the basis of the emergy synthesis method. The main objective is to provide comprehensive indicators of carrying capacity, economic performance and wellbeing over time, pointing out the differences between a fast developing nation, Brazil, and a developed nation, Italy. Focus is placed on emergy indicators capable of accounting for societal metabolism and shedding light on conventional monetary assessments. Trade between Brazil and Italy is also investigated in order to stress issues of fair and equitable trade in terms of balanced emergy exchange. Emergy indicators show that Brazil now relies on a decreasing percentage of renewable resources, resulting in increasing environmental load and decreasing global sustainability. Results are even worse for Italy that keeps using much larger fractions of nonrenewable and imported resources. As for the trade between the two countries: in the year 2008, Brazil exported to Italy 5.68E+22 seJ mainly in the form of raw resources, while imported 1.78E+21 seJ of manufactured commodities, generating a huge unbalance in terms of emergy traded.

Streamlined life cycle inventory of dental syringes manufacturing

pp. 189-201 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.05.006

C. R. Munhoz, C. M. V. B. Almeida, F. Agostinho, S. H. Bonilla, and B. F. Giannetti

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Abstract

Among the methods proposed to environmental management of productive activities, Life Cycle Assessment is one of the most integrated, complete and effective. The product assessed is the dental Carpule syringe. The aim of this work is to achieve a Streamlined Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) to quantify the electric energy consumption and the solid waste release from dental Carpule syringes manufacture. The methodological framework is based on ISO 14040/2006. The LCI covers the syringe life cycle from mining to disposal. The limits of the system include the stages of copper and zinc mining and ore beneficiation, the production of polyethylene used for syringe and needle packing, the production of steel for needles and syringe coils, and the use of the whole set by dentists. The functional unit was defined as 106 (one million) applied anesthesia. During improvement assessment, the proposed solutions allow reducing the energy consumption at about 20% in the manufacturing stage. The solid waste quantity may be reduced by almost 40 % in the manufacturing stage, equivalent to approximately 6.5 % of the total solid waste released during the entire life cycle of the Carpule dental syringe.

Primary evidences on the robustness of environmental accounting from emergy

pp. 203-212 | DIO: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.05.007

B.F. Giannetti,C.M.V.B. Almeida, F. Agostinho, S.H. Bonilla, and S. Ulgiati

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Abstract

Agricultural systems operate in the interface between environment and human economy, combining the use of natural and purchased resources in food production. With the aid of the ternary diagram, data of agricultural systems taken from literature are organized in order to evidence the influence of the type of culture and of the analyst’s criteria on the results of environmental accounting in emergy. All the systems represented in the ternary diagram determine a qualitatively well-defined region, less or more extended according to the case. Points defined for the emergy coordinates were localized in defined regions observed in the diagram. Emergy accounting is presented as a method able to environmentally characterize production systems in a robust way, even with variations in analyst’s criteria and data nature or origin. It is shown that the results of environmental accounting obtained with the use of the emergy methodology are only slightly influenced by the analyst’s criteria. On the other hand, the ternary diagram appears as an interesting graphical tool to determine finding and checking robustness of emergy accounting. The robustness of emergy methodology is remarkable.

JEAM Volume 1, Issue 3

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Energy and Existential Sustainability: The Role of Reserve Capacity

pp. 213-228 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.08.001

Joseph A. Tainter

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Abstract

Sustainability emerges from successfully solving the problems that confront a society. Problem solving leads to increasing complexity and imposes costs. Sustainability is therefore a benefit/cost function subject to diminishing returns. Problem solving and sustainability ultimately depend on having supplies of energy and other resources of high quality, quantity, and productivity. When confronted with existential problems–threats to the existence of a society or way of life a sustainable society must be able to draw upon reserve re- sources that are readily available. Lack of such reserves can make a society unable to solve problems and vulnerable to collapse. This is illustrated by two periods in Roman history, the Second Punic War (218-201 B.C.) and the Battle of Adrianople (A.D. 378). Rome’s ability to recover from these crises illustrates the importance for sus- tainability of reserve capacity to solve problems. This finding is ap- plied to a discussion of problem-solving capacity under declining petroleum supplies, and in a future dependent on renewable energy.

An AccountingModel for Watershed Ecological Compensation to Address Wa-ter Management Conflicts

pp. 229-247 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.08.002

Zhifeng Yang, Xi Han, Linyu Xu and Bing Yu

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Abstract

Watershed ecological compensation is a powerful economic method used to address water management problems. In this study, we established an accounting model for watershed ecological compensa-tion based on STELLA software, using revenue functions to quanti-fy the profits of two cities during water use. The revenue functions included factors such as socio-economic water-use benefit, pollu-tion control cost and environmental externalities in the downstream area. This ecological compensation model can be used to address water-use disputes between upstream and downstream cities in the watershed area. Using the Guanting Reservoir Basin as a case study and considering the profit of each stakeholder, we calculated the payments under different scenarios of water quality and quantity within the provincial trans-boundary section. Our results indicated that (i) when the water quality of the inflow to Beijing (down- stream) is Grade V or IV as defined by the National Water Quality Standard of China, Zhangjiakou (upstream) should pay Beijing 92.04 or 48.19 million Yuan RMB, respectively; (ii) when the water quality of the inflow is Grade II, Beijing should pay Zhangjiakou 53.08 million Yuan RMB.

Designing Large Housing Estate for Sustainable Communities

pp. 249-258 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.08.003

Christian Kersten Hofbauer and Elham Madadi-Kandjani

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Abstract

There is no doubt that large housing estate has an important impact on community design of sustainable neighborhoods and on the ur- ban and regional housing markets of most cities in Europe. During the post war period main issue was a high quality and well equipped housing with a hopeful perspective and glorious and idealistic ideas. In the last decade most of the designers and planners have improved their planning strategies for empowering the environmental, social, cultural, and economic impact of their designs. Sustainable design for nowadays and future generation and new planning policies are the most important factors in new planning processes. This research aims at investigating if sustainable large housing development can form strong communities in which residents enjoy high quality of design and life and environmental friendly neighborhoods. The re- search findings suggest that a sustainable urban development seems to be essential to a sustainable large housing development. The re- sults of the research show that physical environment in line with nature, cultural background, the sustainable use of space, and af-fordable dwelling leads to a worth living community design.

Thirty-years Assessment of Size-fractionated Particle Mass Concentrations in a Polluted Urban Area and Its Implications for the Regulatory Framework

pp. 259-267 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.08.004

Marco Casazza, Giorgio Gilli, Angelo Piano and Silvia Alessio

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Abstract

Among the different atmospheric pollutants, since the late 70s, great attention has been devoted to Particulate Matter (PM). From a 30-year database of size-fractionated PM measurements, we ob- served the positive impact of the gradual introduction of improved air quality regulations. In fact, PM10, PM2.5 and PM1 absolute con- centration levels have been reduced during this period. In particular the mean recorded values are: 63 μg/m3 (PM10), 38 μg/m3 (PM2.5) and 22 μg/m3 (PM1) in year 1980. Recorded mean values were 59 μg/m3 (PM ), 41 μg/m3 (PM ) and 32 μg/m3 (PM ) in year 2000, 10 3 2.5 3 1 3 and finally 45 μg/m (PM10), 34 μg/m (PM2.5) and 29 μg/m (PM1) in year 2011. Nevertheless, major adverse health effects are still recorded. Even if a complete toxicological description of PM im- pact is still in progress and several aspects related to the chemical and mutagenic effects of PM should be investigated in depth, the relative size concentrations are also of paramount importance. In fact, even if the absolute concentrations of the three inhalable PM fractions decreased, relative concentrations of finer fractions have increased in the period 1980-2010. In particular, the relative values of PM2.5 and PM1 are: 61% (PM2.5) and 35% (PM1) in year 1980; 70% (PM2.5) and 54% (PM1) in year 2000; 75% (PM2.5) and 65% (PM1) in year 2011. Results suggest that the introduction of new limitations to sub-micron particles (PM1) emissions is advisable. Possible improvement of air quality management might derive from differentiated local/regional limitations, depending on the charac- teristics of the exposed population and on the local meteorological and geographical characteristics of the sites showing higher aerosol pollution levels.

Multiscale Entropy Analysis of Health-related Stream Flow Complexity Under Different Human Impacts

pp. 269-281 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.08.005

Pan Yang, Xinan Yin and Jian Tang

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Abstract

Multiscale entropy (MSE) can effectively measure the streamflow complexity for river health analysis, but the effects of different kinds of human activities on streamflow complexity are still in con- troversy. In response to this question, this study applies the MSE analysis on river flow of three hydrological stations (Huayuankou, Gaocun and Lijin) in the lower Yellow River and the average pre-cipitation and evaporation of 62 meteorological stations across the Yellow River basin. The results indicate that: 1) water consumption could lead to the decrease of streamflow complexity in lower Yel- low River; 2) construction and operation of reservoirs could in-crease the streamflow complexity downstream, and possible expla-nation is the water storage enhanced long range correlation of res- ervoirs; and 3) the intensity of complexity alteration caused by reservoirs is related to both its capacity and position, larger reservoir in upstream has greater impact on streamflow complexity. This study also suggests MSE to be a useful tool in hydrological study and river ecosystem protection in Yellow River.

Reconsidering Some of the Earth’s Biophysical Limits to the Long Term Sustainable Development of Humanity

pp. 283-293 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.08.006

Pëllumb R. Harizaj

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Abstract

Humans’ existence as living organisms depends on some essential natural resources and ecosystem services. On the other side, nature has a certain speed of regenerating its resources required by hu- mans. Therefore, the consumption rate of natural resources by soci- ety should be equal to or slower than the nature’s speed of resource recovery in order to avoid overexploitation or degradation. This requires the quantitative definition of the Earth’s bio-physical limits that are crucial for the existence of human life, and monitoring of these limits by identifying the proper indicators of the Earth’s per- formance. A new economic theory designed according to the knowledge offered by pure and applied science might play a key role in achieving the long term sustainability goals of humanity.

Exploring Improvement Paths for Eight Industrial Symbiosis Complexes throughout the World

pp. 295-306 | DIO: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.08.007

Hongmei Zheng, Yan Zhang, Zhifeng Yang, Gengyuan Liu, Meirong Su, Bin Chen, Xiaojie Meng, and Yating Li

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Abstract

Industrial symbiosis complexes have been developing throughout the world for nearly seventy years since 1947, “industrial symbiosis” was proposed firstly. Unfortunately, due to the changes of the exchanges between members or the disappearance or newly-built activities of some members, only a few complexes developed smoothly and sustainably, such as Kalundborg industrial symbiosis complex. Therefore, it is necessary to plan and redesign exist-ing industrial symbiosis complexes. In this study, we firstly combined with density and network degree centralization metrics in network analysis method and divided these complexes into three different types: dependence-oriented (Guangxi, Xinjiang, and Ka-lundborg), equality-oriented (Choctaw and Lubei), and nested-oriented complexes (Kitakyushu, Tianjin, and Styria), then summarized their similarities. Secondly, we can propose new established exchanges for all the eight industrial symbiosis complexes throughout the world from the perspective of analyzing their deficiencies in structural characteristics and calculate how the effectiveness of these new linkages. This study can provide basis for the resource utilization efficiencies improvement and the stable and sustainable development of these complexes.

JEAM Volume 1, Issue 4

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Integrating Environmental Accounting, Life Cycle and Ecosystem Services Assessment

pp. 307-319 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.011.001

Silvio Viglia, Andrzej Nienartowicz, Mieczysław Kunz, Pier Paolo Franzese

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Abstract

Environmental protection is often considered as competing with human activities and economic development. On the contrary, more innovative guidelines recommend nature conservation to be achieved without banning human activities but, instead, developing appropriate management practices aimed at joint economic, social, and environmental sustainability. The suitability of such management schemes should be evaluated through integrated assessment frameworks overcoming mono-dimensional metrics and criteria. In this study, we integrated different environmental accounting methods with life cycle and ecosystem services assessment to investigate the interplay of human activities and nature conservation in the Bory Tucholskie National Park (Poland). Indicators of environmental costs and impacts due to the exploitation of forest ecosystem services in the study area were calculated. In addition, the economic and ecological value of the main forest ecosystem services was assessed to explore the benefits gained in preserving stocks of natural capital while exploiting flows of eco- system services.

Emergy Analysis of a Biomass Direct-fired Power Plant in Inner Mongolia of China

pp. 321-331 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.11.002

Mingyue Pang, Lixiao Zhang†, Changbo Wang, Gengyuan Liu

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Abstract

Though encouraged by a series of policies and measures, the biomass direct-fired power generation industry in China has not achieved expected rapid development, like other renewable electricity industries such as small hydropower, photovoltaic power and wind power. In this paper, an emergy analysis was performed to evaluate the overall performance and relative environmental sustainability of biomass direct-fired power production systems, taking a plant in Inner Mongolia as an example. The evaluation results show that the solar transformity of biomass direct-fired electricity in 2011 is 1.14E+05 seJ/J, similar to that of typical renewable electricity technologies and much lower than that of fossil fuel power plants. The comparison between the emergy-based indicators with those of other electricity production systems also confirms the outstanding performance of the biomass direct-fired power system, indicating that biomass direct-fired power technology itself is relatively well established in China now. However, one of the key constraints to the healthy development of the biomass direct-fired power industry is the unstable supply of raw materials and the resulting increased collection radius, which have a large effect on the sustainability performance of biomass direct-fired power systems in terms of emergy indicators.

SWOC Analysis on CCS: A Case for Oxy-fuel Combustion CO₂ Capture System

pp. 333-343 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.11.003

M.Y. Han, Q. Yang, X.D. Wu, T.H. Wu, G.Q. Chen

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Abstract

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) has drawn worldwide attentions as a low-carbon technology alternative. Though China is deemed as a key player in the global context to slash CO2, the future of CCS in China is still highly uncertain. This study presents an overview for CCS development in China and gives detailed analyses on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and constraints (SWOC) on CCS. Taking oxy-fuel combustion CO2 capture system as a case in this study, much of the uncertainties rest in the lack of clarity about the technical mechanisms and high costs in air separation unit (ASU), given the fact that small-scale post-combustion and pre-combustion capture systems have been applied in industrial processes. Under such cir- cumstances, high costs, immature technologies, lack of regulatory framework, and insufficiency of international collaboration are identi-fied as the major factors affecting the development of CCS in China. Extensive attentions should be focused on these aspects, in particular the high costs and immature technologies coupled with CO2 capture.

Dynamic Method for Evaluating the Environmental Carrying Capacity of a Chinese Industrial Park

pp. 345-360 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.11.004

Linyu Xu, Peng Kang, Bing Yu , Xiaodong Xie

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Abstract

Increased industrialization has heightened the environmental pressure on complex ecosystems in industrial parks and even hindered sustainable development in some regions. Thus, we present an evaluation method for calculating the environmental carrying capacity of an industrial park, which provides a comprehensive evaluation index system for the environmental carrying capacity and environmental pressure. We used this method to conduct a dynamic evaluation of the coupling coordination for the environmental carrying capacity of Fushan Industrial Park in Zhuhai, China. We also simulated the environmental trends based on industrial park planning. The evaluation results showed that the coupling coordination degree exhibited a rapid upward trend from the early stage (2009-2015) of planning to the midstage of planning (2015-2020). In the mid-stage of the planning, the industrial park development was at the mid-level coordination degree. In the mid-late stage of industrial park planning, the coupling coordination degree exhibited a moderate decline, but it still remained at the intermediate coordinated development stage. The price scissors method was used to study the relative change between these stages and the results showed that the relative trend difference degree increased from 0.25 in the early stage of planning to 1.43 in the late stage of planning, which demonstrated that fluctuations occurred in the final stage of planning (2020-2030).

Spatial Accounting of Environmental Pressure and Resource Consumption Using Night-light Satellite Imagery

pp. 361-379 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.11.005

Salvatore Mellino, Maddalena Ripa, Sergio Ulgiati

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Abstract

Modern societies and economies are highly dependent on fossil energy for their survival. Unfortunately fossil energy resources and minerals are non-renewable and represent finite stocks. Consequently, societies and economies (production, trade and consumption modes) should be reorganized according to the awareness of less resource availability in the future. “ Degrowth” and “prosperous way down patterns” have been suggested in order to avoid economic collapse and global societal turmoil and conflicts. This work assesses the dependence of a regional economy (Campania Region, Southern Italy) on non-renewable resources, by means of joint use of spatial modeling and Emergy Accounting. The Emergy method takes into account all the free environmental inputs (such as sunlight, wind, rain, geothermal heat) as well as the input flows of mineral and fossil energy resources, expressed in terms of their solar energy equivalents. Nonrenewable resources used within the regional economy were correlated to nighttime satellite images via GIS (Geographic Information System) methodology, to explore the load of human activities on land- scape and ecological communities and to define a human disturbance gradient throughout the Region. This gradient was expressed by means of an emergy-based indicator, the Landscape Development Intensity index (LDI). Results show a high dependence of Campania Region economy from imported resources (about 85% of the total emergy used, U) and a high concentration of non-renewable flows in Napoli and Caserta Provinces. These two regional areas have much higher LDI indices, 44 and 36 respectively, suggesting the need for appropriate land use management actions capable to lower the environmental pressure to more sustainable levels.

Assessing the Environmental Performance and Sustainability of National Agricultural Systems

pp. 381-397 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2013.11.006

Amalia Zucaro, Salvatore Mellino, Silvio Viglia, Sergio Ulgiati

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Abstract

Agricultural systems are a crucial interface between human societies and nature, in that they “amplify” the human-controlled investments by concentrating natural energies of sun, rain, and nutrients and make them converge to food production. Even if gross economic value, labor and energy expenditures associated to agriculture are unlikely to ever represent a large fraction of the total performance of a national developed economy, yet the role of such a sector goes much beyond the actual food production and calls for higher attention by concerned policy makers. The evaluation of the dynamics and performance of agricultural systems must be carefully investigated from different sus- tainability points of view (energy, material, economic, environmental, social) to point out how the system and its main driving forces are evolving over time and how can they support a national economy. In this study we compare the agricultural systems of Scotland and Italy over time, by means of an integrated analysis model, SUMMA (Sustainability Multimethod Multiscale Assessment) capable to take into account different dimensions of the investigated systems. The final goal is to understand what are the steps of the investigated processes that are characterized by the lowest performances as well as how the system can be made more robust and resilient in spite of the existing problems (among which increasing energy and resource prices, de- creasing land quality, and decreasing marginal productivity).

JEAM Volume 2, Issue 1

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The Urban Metabolism of the City of Uppsala (Sweden)

pp. 1-12 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.03.001

Tommaso Russo, Elvira Buonocore, Pier Paolo Franzese

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Abstract

Urban systems can be considered like living organisms supplied by mate- rial and energy flows used to maintain structures an functions, and the production of goods and services. In this paper, we integrate economic cost analysis with a method of biophysical accounting (namely Emergy Synthesis) to assess the main inputs and output flows characterizing the urban metabolism of the city of Uppsala (Sweden). Natural and human- driven resource flows supporting the metabolism of the city were evalu- ated and compared by using an ecological-economics perspective. Final- ly, economic and emergy-based indicators were calculated and discussed. Results highlighted a lack of self-sufficiency characterizing most of mod- ern cities especially in terms of food andenergy supplied from larger environmental systems. Considering the existing problems of environ- mental sustainability of most cities and the current trend towards urbani- zation, the proposed multi-criteria assessment to the study of urban me- tabolism, further improved by a deeper investigation of social variables, can represent an important component of sustainability research and poli-Cy.

An Interval-Parameter Fuzzy Linear Programming Approach for Accounting and Planning of Energy-Environmental Management Systems

pp. 13-29 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.03.002

Cong Dong, Guohe Huang, Yanpeng Cai, Wencong Yue, Qiangqiang Rong

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Abstract

In this paper, an energy systems planning (ESPM) model was developed for supporting the planning of an energy management system where the environmental protection was considered under uncertainty. This model was solved based on the interval-parameter fuzzy linear programming, which incorporated the fuzzy linear programming and interval-parameter linear programming into a general optimization framework. Through the conduction of this study, (a) complexities regarding energy activities and environmental conservation in energy management systems could be identified and analyzed, (b) uncertainties of parameters in energy man-agement systems could be incorporated into the planning process on the basis of interval numbers and fuzzy sets, (c) the interval form solutions could enhance the adaptation of ESPM to uncertain conditions, (d) the trade-off between energy activities and environmental protection measures as well as that between optimality and reliability of energy sys- tems couldbe reflected through the introduction of satisfaction degrees, and (e) desirable cost-minimized schemes for energy activitiessuch as energy resources allocation, technological development, facility capacity expansion and pollutant emission control could be provided for decision makers.

Urban Environmental Management Performance Assessment by Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Processing (FAHP)

pp. 31-41 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.03.003

Manouchehr Omidvari, Maryan Ghandehari

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Abstract

In recent decades, the world’s population growth and concentration in mega cities have caused several environmental, social and economic problems. Environment management audit has always been considered as a major challenge in urban management. Providing an appropriate model for the raters makes their personal judgments routinely minimized and obtains a more realistic assessment of the present situation. Using Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Processing and collating it with audit programs can help them to achieve this goal. In the present research study, using stand- ards, the environmental indices have been determined in urban manage- ment and then using Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Processing method, the weight and importance level of the indices have been set and the evalua- tion pattern was presented. The present study was conducted with the aim of presenting a model for auditing the environment and one of Tehran’s municipality regions was selected to do a case study. The results showed that the most important problems in the field of environmental manage- ment in a megacity like Tehran are in areas such as transport and traffic management, waste-water installation and solid waste management which have been unsatisfactory in some areas under study. Applying the pro- posed model has provided urban management with the possibility to iden- tify weaknesses of its collection and remove discrepancies by investing in the issue and causing a continuous improvement of the environment in their management zone.

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) policy for China: Implications from Some Representative Countries and Regions

pp. 43-63 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.03.004

Xudong Wu, Qing Yang, Tianhua Wu, Guoqian Chen

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Abstract

In recent years carbon capture and storage (CCS) emerged as a promising low-carbon technology to tackle climate change by storing the captured CO2 underground. Varied countries and regions have promulgated or proposed specific CCS policies to accommodate with CCS development in their jurisdictions. However, CCS policies seem to be in a vacancy in China. Presented in this paper is a general overview for CCS policies in some representative countries and regions including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom and Australia that are making substantial contributions to the establishment of CCS policy framework in their own jurisdictions as well as their implications for construction of CCS policy framework in China. CCS policies in China are also reviewed and compared with those of the typical economic entities in detail. The result demonstrates that prescriptive standards and regulations, economic incentives as well as supportive measures are not sufficient to smooth CCS deployment in China. Policy recommendations are thus raised to guide CCS progress in China, with a suggested policy package including enactment of CCS regulatory framework, multi-source funding mechanism, elaborated measures to raise public awareness of CCS. The outcome has essential policy implications supportive to a further expansion of CCS deployment in China.

On the Systemic Assessment of a Sustainable University

pp. 65-71 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.03.005

Francesco Gonella†

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Abstract

In this paper, some motivations are discussed for an integrated approach in the study of complex environmental and socio-economic systems, based on the necessity of a systemic perspective wherever the drivers and the flows that control a system stability and evolution are strictly con- nected each other. The validity and the efficacy of the emergy-based analysis is then outlined for the general sustainability assessment of a University, and in particular for Venice Ca' Foscari University in Italy.

Sustainability Assessment of Certified Tropical Forestry using Emergy Analysis

pp. 73-89 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.03.006

Jose-Luis Izursa, David R. Tilley, Patrick Kangas

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Abstract

Sustainable forestry production systems, such as certified forestry, re- duced impact logging or sustainable forest management, have become an important part of tropical countries’ strategy to oversee their forest re- sources. Particularly, certification of forest products has become a widely adopted practice as a response to a growing international concern over the ecological and economic sustainability of harvesting natural tropical forests because of the benefits on reducing excessive and unnecessary construction of forest roads, reducing excessive use of heavy machinery, diminishing excessive collateral damage, and improving the inefficient milling processes and wasting of residues. To accomplish the aim of this study, which is to compare conventional and certified forestry we used a systems analysis tool that could integrate various benefits of certified forestry including, stand age, wood harvest, soil losses and economic gain or loss. We found that the affected area under uncertified logging practices is twice the area of certified forestry because conventional prac- tices require more roads, more logging decks and more skid trails. Also, the rate of soil erosion between uncertified logging (154 Mg/ha/yr) and certified logging (66 Mg/ha/yr) is different. Based on these data, we es- timated that the total emergy removed from certified forests was 40% less than the forest under conventional forestry. The fact that certification does a better job of preserving forest while removing wood was also demonstrated through the Environmental Loading Ratio (ELR). We also found that certification leaves forests with a 30% better chance to recover after logging because less wood is removed. But forestry using certifica- tion showed a lower Emergy Yield Ratio (EYR) because the lower yield and the extra cost of certification. Certification is also favored for the higher price for certified wood in international markets. Then, when Bo- livia exports uncertified wood, it obtains a positive benefit, but lower than using uncertified wood domestically (EYR = 20.4). In other words the worst thing the country could do is certify wood for their domestic market and sell uncertified wood abroad.

Hydropower’s Contribution to the Environmental Integrity of the Embryonic Chinese Carbon Market

pp. 91-103 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.03.007

Kai Whiting1 Lara Jin Qiu-ting Esser, Alicia Valero Delgado

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Abstract

This paper discusses how hydropower can contribute to the environmen- tal integrity of the Chinese carbon market and support low carbon initia- tives and policies in China. It also explores the scientific research that questions the carbon neutrality of hydropower due to the release of nota- ble quantities of greenhouse gases through the creation and operation of a hydroelectric reservoir. The authors provide a comprehensive analysis of how current carbon market mechanisms and management should be maintained, strengthened and/or enhanced in order to optimise the pro- vincial carbon markets of 2014. Based on the literature review and dis- cussion, the authors provide nine principle recommendations. Such rec- ommendations include a verification of the data provided regarding hy- dropower installations and watersheds through various means such as GIS, aerial photography and the cross-referencing of records; and the use of the Strategic Environmental Assessment in addition to the already pre- scribed Environmental Impact Assessment and guidelines for small hy- dropower Should these recommendations be followed it would result in more robust emission trading policies and practices within the hydropow- er sector which could then be used as a template for other carbon reduc- tion technologies within the Chinese power industry.

JEAM Volume 2, Issue 2

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Passive Techniques and Sustainable Urban Development: The Use of Traditional Building Solutions for Climatic Design of Sustainable Urban Texture in Desert Regions

pp. 105-113 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.06.001

Elham Madadi-Kandjani, Christian Kersten Hofbauer, Jean Marie Corneille Meuwissen

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Abstract

Climate and geographical conditions have had a significant impact on the arrangement of architectural elements and physical features of building in hot and dry areas in the past. Without all our modern “science” and “economy”, the builders of the time achieved results based on traditional wisdom and knowledge of the different local conditions, which should guide us in our endeavors to build for a traditional life, to humanize the living space. The aim of this paper is to figure out the criteria of ancient urban and rural settlements in deserts and to introduce some traditional and sustainable features of arid areas in old buildings in hot and arid regions, which show us designing in harmony with nature, and how our ancestors overcame difficult conditions in deserts. In our industrial age, the natural wishes and needs of the inhabitants have been sacrificed for the sake of business. But to take these characteristics into consideration could help us to mitigate human tensions and to solve many problems of today’s life.

Estimation of Black Carbon Emission of China

pp. 115-122 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.06.002

Yiqiong Lu

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Abstract

With a strong absorption effect of solar radiation, black carbon is deemed as one of the important causes of climate change, and also one of the factors resulting in fog and haze, significantly affecting the quality of atmospheric environment and human health. It’s mainly produced by incomplete combustion of carbonaceous substances and has become one of the hot issues in studies of climate change and atmospheric environmental quality in recent years. It is difficult to measure black carbon aerosol emissions directly, and we usually estimate black carbon emission roughly by applying emission factors obtained in the laboratory for the real atmosphere. By using black carbon emission factors of industries published at home and abroad recently, this article estimated black carbon emissions from 2000 to 2012 in China, which was growing from 928.58Gg to 1527.56Gg. In this paper, black carbon emissions were compared in various industries, of which the amount of black carbon emissions of residential activities occupied the largest proportion, but declined gradually each year, while the emission of industry took the second place with an increasing trend every year, and the proportion of emission of transport sector grew ina fast pace from 5.65% in 2000 to 10.51% in 2012.

The Distribution of Chlorophyll-aand Its’ Correlation with Related Indicators in the Ulansuhai Lake, China

pp. 123-131 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.06.003

Xufeng Mao, Changhai Wang, Xiaoyan Wei, Qiong Chen

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Abstract

The current study analyzed the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of chlorophyll-a(Chl-a) based on the bimonthly monitoring data in the Ulansuhai Lake from May to November in 2013. Correlation between chlorophyll-aand related factors including Total Phosphorus(TP), Total Nitrogen(TN), Ammonia Nitrogen(NH₄--N), Nitrate Nitrogen (NO₂--N), Total Organic Carbon(TOC), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and pH were also analyzed to find the influencing factors of chlorophyll-a. Results indicate that the concentration chlorophyll-awas reduced along with water flowing from North to South. The peak concentration and the foot concentration of chlorophyll-a occurred in July and November, respectively. Except for indicator COD, other factors present a certain correlation with chlorophyll-a. Negative correlation appeared in TOC (R = 0.650, p < 0.05) and pH (R = 0.951, p < 0.01) and positive correlation occurred in TP (R = 0.787, p < 0.01), TN (R = 0.796, p < 0.01), NH4 --N (R = 0.778, p < 0.01) and NO₂--N (R = 0.656, p < 0.01). There is no primary factor that dominate the concentration of chlorophyll-a in the water. The current research may provide scientific basis for eutrophication control and management of eutrophic lakes.

A Comparative Study on CCS and Renewable Energy in China: Challenges and Policy Choices

pp. 133-143 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.06.004

Jing Meng, Qing Yang, Zhi Li, Xudong Wu, Guoqian Chen

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Abstract

With the surging carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions worldwide and the huge energy demand, Chinese government has adopted manystrategies to ensure energy security and to slash CO2emissions, including renewable energy and CCS (carbon capture and storage) technology. A comparative work on CCS and renewable energy technology is conducted in terms of technology, administrative environment, financial support，knowledge diffusion, and market development. Based on the specific situation and available resources, as well as accumulated experiences in renewable energy deployment in China and CCS development in developed countries, recommendations about the choices faced with China for CCS deployment can be summarized as follows: implementing more demonstration projects and collaborating with foreign nations that possess advanced technologies to improve technology maturity, to accumulate engineering experience, to drive down costs and to ensure safety; enforcing a legally binding global climate agreement that may act as a solid force to drive CCS development; building clear financing mechanisms that canincrease public sector financing as well as attract private sector investment; and allowing industrial involvement in policymaking that could help develop a mutual-trust and -benefit relationship between the CCS industries.

A Life Cycle Assessment of Landfilled Municipal Solid Waste in Argentina: The Influence of Waste Composition on Greenhouse Gases Emissions and Other Impacts

pp. 145-162 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.06.005

María Daniela Caprile, Maddalena Ripa

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Abstract

Landfills are still among the most common patterns of waste disposal in the world, in spite of the spreading awareness of their environmental impacts. Besides being one of the main sources of greenhouse gases emission (GHG) in the waste management sector, they are also responsible for human and ecosystem toxicity, eutrophication, photochemical oxydation, not to talk of landscape visual degradation, competition for land use and bad smell. In this paper, an empirical model is used to estimate CO2and other gaseous and liquid emissions from landfilling of mixed MSW. By means of an LCA framework, the business-as-usual scenario (landfilling) of San Miguel city (Buenos Aires) is analyzed as a benchmark case and compared to alternative waste management scenarios (40% waste reduction and 50% pre-sorting). Impact potentials are estimated with reference to 1 kg of wet mixed MSW disposed off in a sanitary landfill with bottom liner, leachate collection and treatment, and gas collection. A Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA) of the landfill was performed based on emissions released over a 100 years time interval after disposal. A special focus was placed on Global Warming Potential of landfilled waste (GWP, kg CO2eq), in order to shed light on the different impacts resulting from inclusion or subtraction of biogenic CO2, most often assumed as global warming neutral in published studies. Our results show that: (1) waste composition plays a critical role on waste LCIA; (2) the default exclusion of biogenic CO2emissions can lead to an underestimate of the environmental load of the landfill as far as climate change impact is concerned; (3) global warming, eutrophication, human toxicity and photochemical oxidation are the main impacts of landfilling practices; (4) alternative, waste-prevention and pre-sorting scenarios are likely to decrease such impacts by 20-30% compared to business-as-usual, depending on the investigatedimpact category.

Labor and Services as Information Carriers in Emergy-LCA Accounting

pp. 163-170 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.06.006

Sergio Ulgiati, Mark T. Brown

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Abstract

Production and consumption processes in national and local economies are supported by free renewable environmental resources as well as by nonrenewable minerals and fuels. Economies measure the values of these resources in money terms. It is not always clear that money does not pay nature for providing resources, but only pays humans for extracting, processing and delivering them within markets. Emergy Accounting (EMA) is an environmental accounting method based on the recognition of the work done by nature in generating mineral and energy resources. The work of nature is accounted for in terms of solar equivalent energy supporting natural capital formation and the supply of ecosystem services. Human labor and services are also supported by solar emergy flows and contribute energy and information to economic processes. This paper discusses the role of labor in production processes and designs appropriate accounting schemes based on the emergy approach. The Life Cycle Assessment method (LCA) as well as other resource assessment schemes do not include labor and services in their accounting framework. By keeping track of environmental resources supporting labor and services, emergy provides an important and much needed contribution to a more comprehensive assessment of economic and societal dynamics.

Preliminary Model for Environmental Management in the Production of Surfboards

pp. 171-180 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.06.007

Paulo Eduardo Antunes Grijó

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Abstract

The surfboard industry in Brazil and in the world has more than 50 years depositing toxic residues and flammablesin simple landfills without any control or environmental treatment. These residues, classified by the NBR 10004, as Class I, are considered hazardous, have high aggregated value and huge time decay. In the manufacturing process of this product, it has been identified the emerging need to perform an audit and to create an environmental management system for these units, aiming to reduce water consumption, electricity and wastes generation, apart from the recovery of the residues that cannot be eliminated. It was observed that industrial activity may be resized inorder to minimize environmental impacts and public health and also tomaximize financial resources. Since the year of 1999 researching alternatives for the recovery of residues generated in the production of surfboards, it was realized that this would be a core activity in a process of sustainability and with this; it was found the need of primarily working with the transformation of a culture of waste and consumerism, already established in this industry. For the construction of this initiative, it will benecessary to promote a system of education and of environmental awareness to the social-business level and make a diagnosis in a board factory, with the purpose of systematizing a reference model of ecological responsibility, leveraged through the promotion of forums of discussions and of formulation of a preliminary Environmental Management System for the surf industry.

Model-based Design of a Subsurface Wetland for Water Quality Improvement of the Inflow River of Baiyangdian Lake, China

pp. 181-187 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.06.008

Fei Xu, Yanwei Zhao

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Abstract

The decline of water quality of the inflow river has direct negative impact on the ecological conditions of lake ecosystem. The design of subsurface wetlands was considered to be an effective method for improving the water quality of inflow rivers, especially reducing the excessive nutrients to alleviate eutrophication. A subsurface wetland was designed by applying the wetland model Subwet 2.0 for treating the polluted inflow river— Fu River of Baiyangdian Lake. The simulation scenarios concerning the changes of wetland area were designed to find out the treatment effect of the subsurface wetland. The variation trends of the effluent concentrations of BOD5, ammonium, total nitrogen and total phosphorus for the scenarios had been obtained. The area and volume of the wetland which are the core design parameters have been determined through comparing the reduction percentages of the main pollutants under different design scenarios. The results showed that the simulation results in scenario 2 can simultaneously satisfy the conditions that the efficiencies of removal of total nitrogen and total phosphorus should reach to 90% in the Fu River and meanwhile less time, which is considered as the optimal design scheme. The area and volume should be set as 875m²and 525m³ to make the water quality standard of Fu River change from class V to class III, which could greatly control the eutrophication of Baiyangdian Lake. The method of wetland design based on model could reduce the uncertainties of traditional wetland design method and facilitate the water quality improvement of aquatic ecosystems.

JEAM Volume 2, Issue 3

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Beyond Financial Reporting: A Journey from Sustainability towards Integrated Reporting

pp. 189-203 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.09.001

Chiara Mio, Marco Fasan

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Abstract

The present study provides an overview of the evolution of non-financial disclosure over time, from sustainability towards integrated reports. The article tackles three different themes. First, it introduces the concept of NFI, and it discusses why such information is relevant in the current business environment. It revises previous literature in order to answer to the question “why do companies invest inCorporate Social Disclosure (CSD)”? Second, it defines and discusses the topic of Integrated Reporting (IR). Third, it provides an analysis ofthe state of the art of CSD and IR nowadays. The study shows that policy makers are increasingly pushing companies towards NFI disclosure and that, at the same time, companies have incentives in engaging in NFI disclosure, as shown by previous academic literature. While sustainability reporting is a well-established reality, IR still needs to be further developed, and this study proposes some avenues for future research.

Influence of Eco-Culture on Urban Development

pp. 205-215 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.09.002

Xiaocui Zhou, Yanju Chang

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Abstract

Eco-culture is essentially a social ideology which promotes coexistence and mutual prosperity between mankind and nature, in order to realize cohesive and harmonious development of ecology, economy and society. Based on the analysis of essence ofeco-culture, this paper reveals a mechanism that eco-culture influenced on urban development and analyzes its phenomena. We find that eco-culture is the driving force and soul of urban ecological development, which has penetrated into every aspect of urban society, economy, planning and construction. Eco-culture can not only contribute to resolve ecological crisis, but also facilitate the resource-saving and environment-friendly society development, also promotes the circular economy development, and plays an important role in constructing ecological physical space.

The Spatio-temporal Characteristics of Land Surface Temperatures in Shanghai, and Their Responses to Land-use Change

pp. 217-228 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.09.003

Rong Jiang, Yan Zhang, Liang Chen, Weining Xiang, Gengyuan Liu, Hongmei Zheng

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Abstract

The continuous expansion of impervious artificial surfaces in cities has significantly influenced the urban thermal environment. Recent advances in remote-sensing techniques and geographic information systems have made it possible to investigate the thermal characteristics of the urban environment at a city scale. In the present study, we performed spatial, temporal, and consistency analysis of land surface temperatures (LST) and land use by using Landsat TM thermal infrared remote-sensing images to derive the spatial patterns of urban LST and its changes in Shanghai from 1987 to 2000, meanwhile we also analyzed the relationship between the LST distribution and land-use patterns. We found that the LST distribution was closely related to the land-use pattern: construction land tended to have high LST, whereas vegetation and water body mainly had low LST. We further classified Shanghai's urban thermal environment into five temperature classes; changes inthese classes defined three temperature trends. Using 2000 as an example, we analyzed the consistency of the relationship between LST and land use to examine the impact of urban land use on the urban thermal environment. The results showed that our approach was a feasible way to examine urban LST and its evolution, and revealed a strong relationship between land use and LST. For the future research, it is also reasonable to focus on longer time series and more land-use types.

A Performance and Environmental Sustainability of Cash Crop Production in Pampas Region, Argentina

pp. 229-256 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.09.004

Gloria C. Rótolo, Sergio Montico, Charles A. Francis, Sergio Ulgiati

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Abstract

The Pampas region contributes 80% of the total national production of soya, wheat and maize in Argentina, characterized by large grain exports and internal consumption. Today the area allocated to these crops is driven by short-term economic opportunities, creating a tension between people with vested economic interests and those more concerned about the benefits provided by preserving natural capital and ecosystem services. The objectives of this study were toanalyze resource use, environmental impact, and sustainability of annual crop production in the northern Pampas regions and promote discussion of management strategies and production goals. SUMMA (Sustainability Multimethod Multiscale Assessment), an approach that integrates material demand, energy use, emergy and emissions within a life cycle assessment framework, provides indicators of resource depletion, environmental impact and performance of agricultural systems. Results show a more than doubled water demand per hectare for soy and three times higher for maize and wheat in 2009 compared to 1986, while abiotic material demand per ha decreased down to 10% of the reference year values. On a per gram basis, 2-5 g water were needed in 2009 per gram of product dry matter, with higher demand for wheat and lower for maize. Energy demand decreased by about 60% for soy on per hectare basis, while increased for maize and wheat. About 460 kg CO2 equiv/ha and 3.2 kg SO2equiv/ha were released in 2009 by soybean and up to three times more by maize and wheat, translating into 0.1-0.3 g CO2 equiv/g d.m. of product (with maize performing better and wheat worse). Finally, emergy indicators show an unbalance between use of resources that are free renewable and locally available and resources that are nonrenewable and purchased from outside the system. This unbalance cannot be disregarded, being a key aspect of sustainability.

Measurement of Embodied CO²Emissions and Decomposition of Influencing Factors in Foreign Trade: A Case Study of China

pp. 257-265 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.09.005

Sanmang Wu, Shantong Li

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Abstract

In this study, we measured the embodied CO2emission and analyzed the flow direction of embodied CO2 in China’s foreign trade among the trade partners using a multi-national input-output model based on noncompetitive input-output tables, national input-output tables developed by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, and CO2 emission strength listed in the Global Trade Analysis Program (GTAP) version 7.0 for the years 2002, 2005, and 2010. Using a structural decomposition method, we analyzed the changes in the embodied CO2emissions in China’s foreign trade were caused bythe three factors:export scale and structural changes, intermediate structural changes in the input-output table, and CO2emissions per unit of output. According to our results, from 2002 to 2010, China’s foreign trade created a huge trade surplus and a large embodied CO 2 deficit. In 2010, the CO2surplus reached 1.012 billion t. The rapid growth of trade scale was the main factor in the increase of embodied CO2in China’s export trade, and the technique effect brought about by the decrease in CO2emission strength is a significant factor in restraining the increase of embodied CO2in export trade.

Comprehensive Assessment of Lake Restoration Effect Based on Coupled Lake Models: A Case Study of Baiyangdian Lake in North China

pp. 267-279 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.09.006

Mengjia Xu, Shirong Wu, Fei Xu, Yanxia. Liu, Yanwei Zhao

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Abstract

Due to the impact of human activities, continuing degradation of lake ecosystems and loss of aquatic biodiversity, symptoms of ecosystem damages are widespread, and many efforts have been made in improving ecological conditions through diverse lake ecological restoration ways. However, agreement on what constitutes a successful restoration project continues to be lacking, and we need well-accepted criteria for judging ecological success. In this paper, detailed comparative lake health assessments using coupled lake models were conducted to judge ecological restoration effects of Baiyangdian Lake. We developed an approach to guide restoration of a degraded wetland through construction of two environmental models: hydrodynamics and water quality model as well as compartmental ecological models. Two ecological restoration scenarios- watershed water transfer and watershed pollution load control, were tested. Through correlation analysis and principal component analysis, 10 health evaluation indices were selected indexes from three aspects (structure, function and system) to construct health evaluation system of Baiyangdian Lake. Simulating and assessments results showed that watershed water transfer could improve ecological health status of Baiyangdian Lake more effectively comparedwith watershed pollution load control, and water quality of watershed water transfer is also an important influence factor on ecological health status. Watershed pollution load control is only has restoration effect on the water area near river entrance. For hydrodynamic index, water level in two watershed water transfer scenarios increased significantly, and water quality was also improved a lot. In watershed pollution load control scenario, water quality improved only in water area near river entrance. For water ecological index, zooplankton biomass in two watershed water transfer scenarios increased significantly and phytoplankton biomass increased slightly compared with that in benchmark scenario. Zooplankton biomass in watershed pollution load control scenarios increasednot much comparedwith that in benchmark scenario, and phytoplankton biomass had no obvious change, either. Aquatic plant biomass in all scenarios basically had the same variation. The proposed models and comparative lake health assessments we established show some promising applications as middle-scale or largescale lake management tools for ecological restoration such as pollution load control and ecological water transfer. These tools quantify the implications of proposed future water management decisions.

Bibliometric Analysis of the International Workshop on Advances in Cleaner Production in Brazil

pp. 281-291 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.09.007

Geraldo C. Oliveira Neto, Fábio Ytoshi Shibao

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Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the set of articles about cleaner production published in International Workshop on Advances in Cleaner Production (IWACP) Brazil in 2007. The methodology adopted was a bibliometric analysis using the UCINET-Draw software, which quantified and evaluated the scientific production inquestion in qualita-tive and quantitative terms. The primary constructs evaluated were as follows: (i) article thematics, methods used and segmentsresearched, (ii) relationships between thematics, segments and methods, (iii) the evolu-tion and the rate of rejection of articles from the IWACP (2007) for pub-lication in the Special Volume of the Journal of Cleaner Production (SJCP) (18) (2010) through an analysis of the citations in the ISI Web of Knowledge and a content analysis. The results demonstrate the general panorama of the IWACP (2007), allowing the proposition of future stud-ies in sustainability that focus on thematics, segments and methods. The results also show that the quality of the articles published in the SJCP (18) (2010) from the IWACP (2007) is similar to the other articles pub-lished in the Journal of Cleaner Production (JCP).

JEAM Volume 2, Issue 4

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Factors Influencing the Implementation of Environmental Management Systems in Greek Industrial Estates

pp. 293-300 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.12.001

Ioannis Vikas, Despina Sdrali, Konstadinos Abeliotis†, Constantine Apostolopoulos

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Abstract

Environmental Management Systems (EMS) offer a structured framework for the improvement of the environmental performance of a company. Moreover, organized industrial estates can offer synergies among industrial companies. The aim of the research was to identify some of the factors that affect the EMS implementation by the companies and particularly to examine the relation between synergy creation and EMS adoption, which may be an indicator that the industrial estates can provide an ideal environment for the EMS implementation. The research focused on all the companies that are located in the industrial estates of Greece, apart from the firms that are purely commercial or service oriented. The data were collected during 2013, through a structured questionnaire. Selected variables from the questionnaire were used in order to build a logistic regression model. The results indicate that improved environmental performance and willingness of the companies to improve their corporate image are factors that increase the possibility for the implementation of an Environmental Management System; On the other hand, the main obstacles are the negative effect between the cost perception of the companies towards environmental actions and the costs associated with the EMS implementation.

Sugarcane Biomass Production in South Florida: A Comparative Emergy Assessment of Organic Soil and Mineral Soil Production Systems

pp. 301-312 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.12.002

N.Y. Amponsah, E.A. Hanlon, J.L. Izursa, J.C. Capece

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Abstract

An Emergy Assessment (EMA) of sugarcane cultivation as feedstock for bioethanol production in South Florida was performed to develop a sustainability profile of the farming systems. In this study, a sugarcane farming system on muck soil (organic soil) was compared with a similar cropping system on a sandy soil (mineral soil). The study provides a comparison of these alternative systems from the perspective of their resource use, environmental impact and sustainability. The representative farm for both systems was based on a 5000 acre farm assumed to be already established in South Florida. Emergy analysis was applied to evaluate environmental support required for the sugarcane production in both systems. In line with the methodology a quantitative inventory of free natural resources and purchased input flows into the systems was created. The results showed that aside ground water irrigation which dominates (44%) in both systems, the largest emergy flows for biofuel production on organic soil were associated with soil erosion or subsidence (19%), labor (12%), evapotranspiration (11%), and fuel (8%). However, for sandy soil production, the main contributors were lime (13%), labor (12%), and fuel (8%). The emergy analysis suggests that due to the non-renewability of soil loss in the organic soil farming system, a reduction in the purchased inputs for sandy (mineral) soils based on alternative farming measures potentially makes mineral soil sugarcane ethanol production a rather more sustainable and attractive alternative for a better environmental performance.

Multivariate Analysis of Heavy Metal Contamination in Soil of Baiyangdian Wetland in China

pp. 313-323 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.12.003

Liya Su, Jingling Liu

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Abstract

Soil pollution has become an important environmental issue due to changes in the land use pattern over the last few decades. However, up to now, except Cd and Pb, little attention was paid on more heavy metals in Baiyangdian soil. This article applied multivariate statistical techniques with element concentration analysis and correlation analysis for source identification of heavy metals in the soil of Baiyangdian. The application of multivariate statistical techniques combined with element concentration analysis and correlation analysis has been proved to be an effective tool for source identification of heavy metals in Baiyangdian soil. Firstly, based on the comparison of heavy metals concentrations of soil with background values of Chinese soils, the examined elements were classified into two main groups: natural and anthropogenic sources. Then principal component analysis and cluster analysis, coupled with correlation analysis, were used to gain additional insight into the origins of different elements in soil. Three main sources for these studied elements, as well as some subdivided sources, were therefore identified. Hg, Pb and As are attributed to commercial and domestic sources; Cd and Cu are mainly derived from industrial sources and Cr and Zn associated with traffic sources.

Study on the Driving Factors of CO2 Emissions in China’s Coal Consumption Using the STIRPAT Model

pp. 325-334 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.12.004

Li Li, Yalin Lei, Dongyang Pan

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Abstract

The Pampas region contributes 80% of the total national production of Coal resource is an important material basis for China’s economic and social development. Coal consumption in China has been increasing rapidly especially in recent years. According to the data of IEA, China is the top country in coal production and consumption. Thereupon, CO2 emissions from coal consumption have also been increasing. China is facing more and more pressure from CO2 emissions. Under the background of economic globalization and the pressure of ecological environment deterioration, China's CO2 emissions have become a hot issue in the world. Previous studies mainly focus on the main driving factors of CO2 emissions in economic development or in total energy consumption. Only several studies focus on the driving factors of CO2 emissions from single kind of energy that is coal consumption, which provides much space for this study. This paper aims to inspect the main factors driving CO2 emissions from coal consumption and their driving degree using the STIRPAT model. The ridge regression is borrowed to test the multicollinearity among population, GDP per capita, technology level and urbanization level. The results show that the sequence of the driving factors in CO2 emissions from coal consumption is GDP per capita (A)>urbanization level (UL)>the total population (P)> economic structure (ES) >Technology level (T). The research results provide a scientific basis for Chinese government and relevant departments in making policy decisions to limit CO2 emissions.

Assessment of Water Ecological Carrying Capacity based on Ecological Network Structure

pp. 335-345 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.12.005

Turson Hairet, Weilong Wang, Yuan Li, Shengsheng Li

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Abstract

In this study, ecological network structure analysis is applied into water ecological carrying capacity assessment. Based on theory of ecological network analysis in sustainability quantification and the relationship of WECC and sustainable water use, with the application of presumed water use network model and a new index, WECC is measured from integrated perspective with Baiyang Lake Basin as a case study. The result suggests that with a distance of 28.33×108 m3 network throughflow from that of sustainable network, the network structure is unbalanced. It means that for Baiyang Lake Basin in 2007, the water use network cannot carry throughputs in a sustainable way and its overload quantity is 28.33×108 m3. Through adjusting throughflow on each pathway toward network structure balancing, this method could provide a scientific basis for the coordinated development of social economy and the water eco-environment improvement in the Baiyang Lake Basin.

Wind Resource Assessment in Europe Using Emergy

pp. 347-366 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.12.006

Subodh Paudel, Massimo Santarelli, Viktoria Martin, Bruno Lacarrière, Olivier Le Corre

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Abstract

In a context of increasing use of renewable sources, it is of importance to correctly evaluate the actual sustainability of their implementation. Emergy analysis is one of the possible methods useful for such an assessment. This work aims to demonstrate how the emergy approach can be used to assess the sustainability of wind energy resource in Europe. The Emergy Index of Sustainability (EIS) and the Emergy Yield Ratio (EYR) are used to analyze 90 stations of European regions for three types of wind turbines. To do so, the simplified Chou wind turbine model is used for different set of parameters as: nominal power and size of the wind turbines, and cut-in and cut-out wind speeds. Based on the calculation of the emergy indices, a mapping is proposed to identify the most appropriate locations for an implementation of wind turbines in European regions.The influence of the wind turbine type on the sustainability is also analyzed, in link with the local wind resource. Thus, it is concluded that the emergy sustainability indices are sensitive to the wind turbine design parameters (size, cut-in and cut-outwind speed).

Integrated Agricultural and Dairy Production within a Circular Economy Framework. A Comparison of Italian and Polish Farming Systems

pp. 367-384 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2014.12.007

Patrizia Ghisellini, Gaetano Protano, Silvio Viglia, Marek Gaworski, Marco Setti, Sergio Ulgiati

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Abstract

The livestock sector is required by the European Union policies to strengthen its multifunctional role by diversifying its production patterns. In Italy many dairy farms have already installed energy plants such as biogas digestors, mainly to increase their economic sustainability. We evaluate in this study the environmental performance of raw milk production to be used for world-renowned ParmigianoReggiano cheese production in a dairy farm located in northern Italy.Other products (crops, meat, biogas, electricity) are also included in the assessment. The study was carried out by means of Material Flow Accounting, Cumulative Energy Demand, Emergy Accounting and Life Cycle Assessment methods. The final purpose was to analyze the effects induced by different mixes of inputs (feedstock, electricity, fertilizers) and outputs (crops, milk, meat, electricity) on the process performance. The evaluation was implemented beforeand afterthe installation of a photovoltaic power plant and a biogas digester coupled to a biogas-fueled electric generator. This study explores five alternative scenarios: Scenario 1. An intensive livestock farm, in which feedstock and electricity are purchased from outside and manure is sold or disposed of; Scenario 2. The real farm before the implementation of PV and biogas, using a fraction of self-produced feedstock and manure as fertilizer; Scenario 3. The same farm, after photovoltaic electricity implementation, to cover 100% of local demand; Scenario 4. The same farm, after installing a manure digester and an electric generator, to produce electricity from biogas (sold as additional product, while digestate is used as fertilizer); 5. A Polish dairy farm, producing crops, meat and milk for the market, using manure as fertilizer and no renewable energy appliances. Results show local and large-scale improvements in the transition from Scenario 1 to Scenario 2 (due to increased optimization driven by fodder self-reliance) as well as in the transition from Scenario 3 to Scenario 3 (due to electricity self-reliance). The transition from Scenario 3 to Scenario 4 shows the added value of additional biogasdriven electric generation, while Scenario 5 shows the advantage of optimized milk production due to pedigree breeding, pasture availability and sale of crops in addition to dairy products. Results suggest that several kinds of improvements are possible by acting on farm structure, renewable energy supply, and different mix of products. Results also confirm the effectiveness of a multicriteriamultiscale biophysical assessment method towards a better understanding of costs and benefits of production alternatives.

JEAM Volume 3, Issue 1

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Dynamic Eco-industrial Model of Forest Rich Developing Nations: Application to the Bolivian Forestry Sector and National Economy

pp. 1-22 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.03.001

Jose-Luis Izursa, David R. Tilley

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Abstract

We combined ecosystem simulation modeling with emergy accounting to develop the National Eco-industrial Forestry System (NEIFS), a spatially aggregated model for exploring the role that renewable (forests) and nonrenewable (natural gas) resources could play in the development of an underdeveloped nation. NEIFS was applied to simulate the Bolivian national economy considering the forestry and natural gas sectors under four different scenarios and for the time period between 2005 and 2205. The four scenarios (business-as-usual; increased domestic use; increased export of natural resources; and improved national industrialization) were simulated to observe the behavior of soil/carbon storage, wood reserves, natural gas reserve, national assets, money supply (M4), and total national debt. Results showed that people of Bolivia would enjoy twice the standard of living if its forest products sector were industrialized and it used more of its forest and gas domestically. Thus, simply increasing the exports of natural resources will not increase the well-being of Bolivians. Only when Bolivia’s forest products industry was restructured so that it processed the raw wood into manufactured products, did the country’s citizens see an increase in their well-being. Promisingly, NEIFS showed that this increase in standard of living must not come at the expense of depleting the forests. More simulations should be conducted with NEIFS to determine which rate of gas depletion can maximize the long-term well-beingof the nation’s citizens.

Discussion on Approach to Renovation of Industrial Coal-Fired Boilers in China

pp. 23-30 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.03.002

Yiqiong Lu, Shengguang Zhao

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Abstract

This paper analyzed the present status of industrial coal-fired boilers and relevant policies and standard requirements, and had in-depth discussion on alternative ways of industrial coal-fired boilers, pollution control and management optimization for energy saving. It pointed out that options for elimination and replacement of industrial coal-fired boilers are new energy high efficiency boilers, industrial waste heat utilization, heat pump, new energy and renewable energy. For pollutant control, it provided feasible technologies on controlling dust, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides respectively. Energy conservation measures including evenly hierarchical coal feeding technology, low nitrogen high efficiency combustion technology and etc. are stated as well. It ends up with brief analysis of relevant necessary supporting measures for the whole renovation scheme.

Effects of Climate Change and Human Activities on Runoff in the Headstream Areas of Tarim River Basin

pp. 31-45 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.03.003

Xiaoya Deng, Ai-hua Long, Hongbo Ling, Mingjiang Deng, Shouping Zhang

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Abstract

Based on the measured runoff and meteorological data over the past 50 years in the headstreams of the Tarim River, this paper not only discussed the variation characteristics of runoff and climate factors, but also analyzed the impacts of climate change and human activities on the surface runoff by using the nonparametric test, extrapolation of variance analysis and periodic superposition trend model. Results showed that air temperature and precipitation increased significantly with the obvious abrupt change in 1993 and 1990, respectively. Surface runoff from the headstreams of the Aksu River and Yarkand River was in an increasing trend with the abrupt change in 1993, in which year the turning point of the impact of the human activities on the headstream runoff did occur as well. In Hotan River, the decreasing trend was slight, and the abrupt change was not obvious. According to the extrapolation of variance analysis, the periods of the three headstreams (Aksu River, Yarkand River, and Hotan River) are 25, 23, and 24 years, respectively. The periodic superposition trend model showed that the climate change had increased the total stream flow of the mountain pass in Aksu River and Yarkand River since 1993, but in regard of the headstreams from the mountain pass to Alar, the impact of human activities on runoff was more significant than that of climate change.

Comparative Analysis of Accounting Principles in Trading Carbon Emissions for Alternative Mechanism Design

pp. 47-57 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.03.004

Caiping Zhang, Timothy O. Randhir

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Abstract

Carbon emission rights scheme as a market-oriented mechanism is regarded as an effective way to cut down the volumes of greenhouse gases. However, Although International Accounting Standard Board (IASB) and Financial Accounting Standard Board (FASB) have done much work in this field, it appears to have little progress. Therefore, accounting for carbon emission rights has become a dilemma in global accounting area. In this paper, we use a comparative analysis of process features and accounting recognition problems in two allocation schemes: “Cap and Trading Scheme” (CTS) and “Baseline and Credit Scheme” (BCS). We analyze similarities and differences of two schemes that lead to different accounting principles. The research indicate that carbon emission rights, either allowance or credit, have similarity in currency property, although it has different kinds of features. The systematical differences between CTS and BCS lead to basic differences in accounting principles. Under CTS, the different purposes like holding allowance for trading or holding allowance for commitment lead to different ways of accounting recognition. Under BCS, it only needs to recognize credit as a carbon currency. The paper provides a unique perspective to handle accounting principle dilemma of carbon emission rights. The accounting principles are helpful for the enterprises to well manage carbon losses or gains by completely reflecting the whole process of emission rights distribution, trading and delivery. The research results will provide directions for accounting standard setting boards to formulate the accounting standard for carbon emission rights.

Possibility of Secondary Sub-micron Aerosol Mass Concentrations Forecasting: A Case Study Toward the Possibility of A Future Nowcasting Approach

pp. 59-67 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.03.005

Marco Casazza

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Abstract

Particulate Matter (PM) pollution represents a global concern, due to its adverse effect both on environment and on human health. European Environmental Protection Agency data reveal that one of the most exposed regions is Northern Italy. The attention has been focused on a metropolitan city within this area, Torino (NW Italy), and studied the relation between sub-micron particles and their precursor gases under real atmospheric conditions, considering that fine particles have the most relevant adverse health effects. A photolytic computation model developed using an environmental chamber has been adapted and tested for real environmental conditions. The obtained algorithm can constitute the basic building-block for an effective PM1 nowcasting method. Testing it through the use of 2008-2011 summertime data (during the summer the photolytic activity is greater), selected considering only the days with stable fine weather conditions, we found that there is a strong stable dependence between the concentrations of sub-micron particles and its precursor gases, NO in particular. This fact will allow to calculate separately the dependence of PM1 mass concentration values (that represent 65% of PM10) on generation, respect to transport and scavenging phenomena. Finally, this result makes clear that an active policy on NO emission reduction should have effects also on PM pollution in the atmosphere.

Study on the Relationship between Coal Consumption and Economic Growth: Based on the Data from 1981-2011 of China

pp. 69-75 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.03.006

Li Li,Yalin Lei, Dongyang Pan

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Abstract

Coal continues to play an important role in the world and in China in the future. Although renewable energy will obtain a bigger development, coal is still one of the main characters in the pattern of world energy in the next 30 years. Using vector error correction model and the data from 1981- 2011 in China, the paper examines the relationship between the variables coal consumption and economic growth for China. The results show that there is a bi-directional granger causality relationship between coal con sumption and economic growth in the short and long run in China, which means that rapid economic growth promotes huge coal consumption, and coal consumption supports economic growth.

Alternative Options for Sewage Sludge Treatment and Process Improvement Through Circular Patterns: LCA-based Case Study and Scenarios

pp. 77-85 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.03.007

Salvatore Mellino, Gaetano Protano, Elvira Buonocore, Giuseppe De Angelis, Gengyuan Liu, Linyu Xu, Sergio Ulgiati

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Abstract

In the pursuit of more sustainable wastewater treatment (WWT) processes, life cycle assessment (LCA) can be used as a valuable tool to evaluate the environmental impacts associated to WWT plants. In this study LCA is applied to compare the environmental performance of three scenarios for sludge disposal in a WWT plant located in southern Italy. The first business-as-usual scenario is based on the actual sludge management performed within the case-study plant: after mechanical treatment, dewatered sludge is transported by truck to a landfill for final disposal. The second scenario assumes a circular pattern, with anaerobic fermentation of sludge to biogas, and biogas use for electricity and heat cogeneration: electricity is feedback to WWT, while heat is used for digestate drying, in addition to thermal energy from previously recovered waste cooking oil (WCO). The third scenario suggests an improved circular pat-tern where the dried sludge is further gasified for syngas production and syngas is added to biogas for heat and electricity production. Scenario results suggest that increased circularity through recycling would be capable of reducing both the contribution to environmental impact categories and the fossil energy consumption up to 50%.

JEAM Volume 3, Issue 2

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Computational Algorithms for Sustainability Assessment

pp. 87-88 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.06.001

Antonino Marvuglia, Beniamino Murgante, and Enrico Benetto

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Abstract

Due to the increasingly complex environmental system problems science and society have to deal with, an integrated methodological framework for sustainability assessment is by nature rooted in an interdisciplinary approach. In particular, practical implementation and monitoring, to manage the transition from business-as-usual to sustainable development paths for the concerned stakeholders requires improving the knowledge (and the capacity to communicate it) on linkages between the key types of resources, the resources and the environment and the resources and the economy. The underlying challenges are inherently integrated and shall be pursued in combination. That is why an integrated approach is essential. This special issue aims at presenting research show cases which bridge together different research communities, especially Computational Geography, Environmental Informatics and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which have so far come to common grounds only in a few cases.

Variable Selection Strategy Using Random Forests Algorithm to Identify the Effects of Environmental Factors on Health, Modeling from a GIS Multidimensional Dataset

pp. 89-108 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.06.002

Stephane Bourrelly

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Abstract

This paper proposes the method: MyVsurfGeo (MVG), designed to assess the adverse effects of living environments; of key interest in France’s cancer plans. Increased access to numerous databases enables modeling physicochemical, sanitary and socio-economic features at territorial scale, from Geographic Information Systems (GIS). However, GIS are not suited for characterizing relationships in existing high multidimensional datasets. Especially, when incorporating qualitative and quantitative indicators, with different accuracy levels. A recent strategy of variable selection using Random Forests provides the power to overcome this drawback. MVG1 method transposes this strategy into spatial analysis. It is applied to secondary tumors (TUM2) developed during a childhood leukemia remission. Results highlight health determinants and contributory factors that explain TUM2 incidences. The significance of MVG and its findings are discussed. The expected medical and political contributions are described.

Sustainability Analysis and Systems of Linear Equations in the Era of Data Abundance

pp. 109-122 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.06.003

Reinout Heijungs, Arjan de Koning, Anneke Wegener Sleeswijk

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Abstract

Sustainability research has entered an era of data abundance, in which online repositories offer millions of facts on production, consumption, pollution, and impacts. The combination of such facts in linear models leads increasingly to computational problems, relating to memory, speed, accuracy, and stability. This paper examines this phenomenon from the perspective of three widely-used types of sustainability analysis: multimedia fate and exposure models, life cycle assessment of products, and environmentally extended input-output analysis. The paper describes the various theoretical arguments, some indicators, and some solutions. Moreover, it adds the empirical evidence from one of these analysis types, namely life cycle assessment. It concludes that the phenomena indeed occur in practice, that abstract indicators ignore the subtle differences between different types of environmental impacts, and that a sound strategy for dealing with these problems is the critical analysis of results together with the variation of the computational principles.

Combination of Imperfect Data in Fuzzy and Probabilistic Extension Classes

pp. 123-150 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.06.004

Jerome Dantan, Yann Pollet, Salima Taibi

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Abstract

In this article, we propose a uniform formal model able to handle uncertain data. The approach presented provides a formalism for both representing and manipulating rigorously quantities which may have a finite number of possible or probable values with their interdependencies. Then, we define an algebraic structure to operate chained computations on such quantities with properties similar to 兟 . Next, we provide a particular interpretation for mixing such quantities through the Dempster- Shafer theory. Finally, we provide an implementation of this approach into object oriented programming.

Topological Network Theory and Its Application to LCA and IOA and Related Industrial Ecology Tools: Principles and Promise

pp. 151-167 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.06.005

Reinout Heijungs

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Abstract

One way to study complex systems is by methods from topological network theory, that concentrate on the topological structure of the system in terms of vertices (nodes) and edges that connect pairs of vertices. The last two decades, topological network theory has seen a wide range of applications. In this paper, we explore its potential for two of the model systems that are central to industrial ecology (IE): life cycle assessment (LCA) and input-output analysis (IOA), with the aim of finding out whether this theory offers insights that are useful to IE. We describe the principles of topological network theory, as well as the possible rules for translating LCA and IOA systems into a formal network. We apply this theory to two cases, the ecoinvent LCA database, and the monetary IOtable for the European Union in 2007. Our conclusions are mixed. It is not entirely clear what the resulting network indicators imply for a specific LCA case or IOA case. Although the results obtained are perfectly explainable and thus do make sense, they appear to be very sensitive to arbitrary choices, such as the level of aggregation. Moreover, it appears to be difficult to include the environmental aspect in the network analysis, so that we end up with analyzing an industrial network rather than industrial-ecological network.

Evaluation of Technology Solutions for Municipal Waste Incineration Using LCA Results And Multi-Criteria Analysis

pp. 168-180 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.06.006

Agnieszka Generowicz, Anna Henclik, Joanna Kulczycka, Zygmunt Kowalski

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Abstract

Multi-criteria analysis was used to compare technology solutions for 3 chosen municipal waste incineration systems in Warsaw, Tarnobrzeg and Spittelau in Vienna. LCA results were used to calculate the value of the criteria applied in the multi-criteria analysis. The comprehensive comparative assessment of options for incineration of municipal waste took into account, as the partial indicators of impact categories, results obtained from LCA calculation and production cost. The functional unit of the system is 1 tonne of municipal waste treated by incineration. It includes the life cycle from the material and energy used (transport was excluded) based on real data, and from infrastructure based on data from the Ecoinvent database. The system boundaries of the analysis are from ‘cradle’ to ‘gate’. LCA results based on the data obtained were created using the ReCiPe method. As a result of the multi-criteria analysis, a solution was obtained which involved ranking the waste incineration options analysed from the most to least beneficial solution taking into account environmental and economic criteria. For all the options analysed, and using the multi-criteria analysis as well as the LCA method and regardless of the criteria hierarchy adopted, the waste incineration technology in Spittelau is selected as being ultimately more appropriate than the others. Incineration in Spittelau has a higher capacity and lower impact on the environment compared to that in Warsaw and Tarnobrzeg thanks to the highly efficient flue gas treatment systems installed, which are, however, very costly (average installation and running cost).

Hydrogeology and Vulnerability to Pollution of Carbonate Aquifers in the High Valley of the Basento River (Lucanian Apennines, Southern Italy)

pp. 181-196 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.06.007

Rosalba Muzzillo, Stefania Pascale, Francesco Sdao

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Abstract

The aim of the present study is the evaluation of the intrinsic vulnerability to pollution of one of the major carbonate aquifer systems of the Basilicata region, Southern Italy. This aquifer system is represented by the wide Arioso-Pierfaone morphostructure, located in the higher sector of the Basento Valley, and characterized by abundant groundwater resources, quantified in about 10 Mm3/yr flowing from several springs. Many of these are captured, though not fully exploited, whereas others are not captured, though characterized by considerable discharges. From a structural point of view, the study area is characterized by the presence of numerous faults and thrusts. As a consequence, the permeability of the carbonate aquifer system shows a large variability. The choice of the methodological approach for the evaluation of the vulnerability has been based on the local hydrogeological characteristics and on the amount of available geological information. In particular, the evaluation of the intrinsic vulnerability of the Basento Valley carbonate aquifer system was obtained using the “SINTACS” point count system model. This method allowed to evaluate that the six classes of the intrinsic vulnerability of the carbonate system vary between very low and very high. High values of vulnerability are due to the density of the fractures, the distribution of the outcropping lithologies, the petrographic composition of the permeated geological formations and the depth of the piezometric surface.

A Spatial Decision Support Tool to Study Risks and Opportunities of Complex Environmental Systems

pp. 197-212 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.06.008

Valentina Ferretti, Marta Bottero, Giulio Mondini

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Abstract

An important problem arising when assessing territorial systems is linked to their complexity. This requires multidimensional approaches for the evaluation in order to obtain concise final judgments. Moreover, when dealing with territorial systems, the analysis of the geographical patterns of the elements under investigation plays a fundamental role. This paper proposes an integrated approach for the analysis of a complex environmental system based on the use of Multicriteria-Spatial Decision Support Systems (MC-SDSS). MC-SDSS consist in the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Multicriteria Decision Aiding (MCDA) techniques. In particular, starting from a real case related to a mountain area in Northern Italy, the present paper explores the potentialities of the MC-SDSS methodology for supporting the definition of future transformation scenarios.

JEAM Volume 3, Issue 3

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Calling for an Integrated Computational Systems Modelling Framework for Life Cycle Sustainability Analysis

pp. 213-216 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.09.001

Antonino Marvuglia, Enrico Benetto, Beniamino Murgante

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Abstract

The implementation process of sustainable development goals poses considerable challenges to policy makers, as well as to scientists. This requires improving the knowledge on linkages between the key types of resources, the resources and the environment and the resources and the economy. The underlying challenges are inherently integrated and shall be pursued in combination. This calls for an integrated approach, which still suffers of a lack of cohesion in quantitative sustainability assessment tools and cooperation among different disciplines. A conceptual framework for life cycle sustainability analysis (LCSA) which could embrace life cycle thinking methods, stakeholders analysis supported by multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA) and dynamic system modelling has been advanced by some authors, but it still lacks of operationalization. This is the right moment to tackle this challenge because of the shared consensus on the need, added value and feasibility of creating new LCSA methodologies and tools to derive consumer information, supply chain improvements and policy support. This special issue does not present a solution for an integrated operational framework, however represents an attempt to enhance cooperation of scientists belonging to different disciplines under the overarching umbrella of a lifecycle based perspective.

Coupling Multi-objective Constrained Optimization, Life Cycle Assessment, and Detailed Process Simulation for Potable Water Treatment Chains

pp. 217-227 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.09.002

Florin Capitanescu, ElorriIgos, Antonino Marvuglia, Enrico Benetto

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Abstract

This paper deals with the optimization of key decision variables of a potable water production plant. To this end we propose a multi-objective constrained optimization approach which trades-off operational costs and environmental impact while satisfying outlet water drinkability criteria. The proposed solution approach consists in coupling a meta-heuristic global optimization algorithmand EVALEAU, which is a state-of-the-art process modelling - life cycle assessment (LCA) tool for simulating potable water treatment chains. The proposed eco-design optimization approach is successfully illustrated on a real-world model of a water production plant, and the relative performances of two highly praised stateof- the-art derivative-free global optimization algorithms,namely the Strength Pareto Evolutionary Algorithm (SPEA2) and Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA-II),are compared.

Random Forest for Toxicity of Chemical Emissions: Features Selection and Uncertainty Quantification

pp. 229-241 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.09.003

Antonino Marvuglia, Michael Leuenberger, Mikhail Kanevski, Enrico Benetto

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Abstract

Toxicity characterization of chemicals’ emissions is a complex task which proceeds via multimedia fate and exposure models attached to models of dose–response relationships. Several different environmental multimedia models exist, but in any case a vast amount of data on the properties of the chemical compounds being assessed is required. This paper deals with the selection of informative variables in the problem of deriving characterization factors for eco-toxicology and human toxicology of chemical compounds starting from molecular-based properties. The Random Forest algorithm has been applied to single out the most relevant variables when modelling one toxicity factor at the time. The set of variables retained varies according to the modeled output factor, but certain variables are almost always retained among the top three most important ones, regardless the output factor taken into consideration. The modelling performed in this paper is one of the first applications of nonlinear techniques to the database of organic substances made available by the multimedia fate and exposure model USEtox, largely used by the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) community.

A Geospatial approach to determine Lake Depth and Configuration of Reingkhyongkine (Pukur Para) Lake, Rangamati Hill District, Bangladesh with Multi-Temporal Satellite data

pp. 243-258 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.09.004

Biswajit Nath, Shukla Acharjee, Atin Kumar Mitra, Debabrata Majumder, Beniamino Murgante

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Abstract

Reingkhyongkine (Pukur Para) Lake is the largest hilly natural lake under Belaichhari Upazila in the Hill district of Rangamati, Bangladesh. Due to remoteness and rugged terrain this lake is never being investigated and not documented in the literature. This research is done following standard method and state-of-art-technology. As natural resource management foster sustainable development the present research is of immense importance. Global Positioning System (GPS) is used for water depth point positioning along with sounding techniques was used for water depth measurement. The highest and lowest depths are observed 145 m and 0.50 m respectively. The worldwide available Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS imagery of 13 May 2015 was considered as the base imagery to know the lake area at present context compare with other different years. The Lake depth and 3D configuration maps are developed based on field depth and derived contour data. In addition to this, surface elevation profile in different direction of lake and bathymetric mapping based on longitudinal and horizontal transect bottom topographic profile, lake surface area and water volume are also calculated to understand the real scenario of this largest lake. All these studies are integrated with local as well as the regional geological structures. The study using geo-integrated technology on Reingkhyongkine lake reveals that the changes of lake area which is 35.02 hectare (May 2015 Landsat 8 OLI Imagery), 40.65 hectare and 34.91 hectare (2010 and 1989 Landsat TM imagery) respectively which indicate an decreasing-increasing-decreasing trend scenario and changing at the rate of 0.11 percent per year and this changing phenomenon is related with the active tectonism of the area as the study area has suffered extensive thrusting, faulting and folding. Besides this the surface elevation of lake is not similar and it varies from 353 meter to 409 meters. Results shows that changes in the configuration and reduction of water volume of Reingkhyongkine Lake establish fragile conditions which indicate of its future drying status and needs continuous monitoring of water depth by considering environmental factors which are involved for the lake changes and finally researcher seeks urgent attention to international scientific community for protection and conservation of this hilly natural lake.

Emergy and Form: Accounting Principles for Recycle Pathways

pp. 259-274 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.09.005

Mark T. Brown

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Abstract

A brief exploration of the concept of information is undertaken to parse the different meanings and measures. We agree with Odum (1996) that information might best be expressed as complexity and posit that the shape or form of an object is a type of information and with increasing complexity of form there is a corresponding increase in emergy required to make it. We also agree with Odum that an increase in concentration of a material increases its emergy per mass (i.e. its UEV) and a decrease in concentration as when a material is dispersed requires a decrease in the emergy stored. We present new thoughts related to the emergy in form as distinct from the emergy of the materials that make up the form. We suggest that the emergy of form is lost when the form is consumed, but the emergy of the substance is maintained. We define recycle pathways in such a way as to clarify emergy accounting for products and by-products. These considerations are important when evaluating “circular economies” where products and by-products are recycled once their useful life is finished. This proposed method of dealing with recycled material is a refinement of the emergy accounting procedure.

Soil Remediation Environmental Decision Support System Based on AHPPROMETHEE II Approach

pp. 275-283 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.09.006

Tao Xie, Reti Hai, Xiangchun Quan, Anjie Li, Rui Liu, Yaxin Chen

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Abstract

Multi-criteria analysis was used to compare technology solutions for 3 Selection of soil remediation technologies for contaminated sites is difficult given the large number of technologies available and the economic, social, and environmental impacts of site remediation activities. In this paper, we take into account a multitude of consequences and analyze their impacts with multi-criteria utility theory. By establishing the AHPPROMETHEE II (Analytic Hierarchy Process-Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluations II) method, an Environmental Decision Support System (EDSS) has been developed for the purpose of identifying optimum soil remediation approaches for contaminated site. In the EDSS, AHP is used to structure the decision problem and to attribute weights to the criteria, whereas PROMETHEE is used to obtain a final ranking of the proposed alternatives. In addition, the hierarchical decision tree was constructed according to 4 criteria, i.e., time and economic costs, technical levels, technical applicability and social benefits, 12 indicators, and 21 soil remediation alternatives. The system has been applied to a case study, in which the best option of soil remediation technology for the particular remediation goal could be achieved. The effectiveness and shortcomings of this system are also discussed.

Evaluation Method for Science and Technology Performance on Energy Conservation and Emission Reduction

pp. 285-297 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.09.007

Lin-Jia Zhao, Wei-Hua Zeng, Jia-Rui Zhang, Jin-Nan Wang, Hong-Qiang Jiang

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Abstract

This study provided an Energy Conservation and Emission Reduction (ECER) evaluation method to identify the role and situation of science and technology (S&T) in ECER. The ECER evaluation method was based on the data envelopment analysis (DEA) model and other statistical methods. A case study was applied to evaluate the S&T ECER performance of 31 provinces of China from 2006 to 2012. And the evaluation results shown that (1) the S&T ECER performance of nearly 40% Chinese provinces were relatively effective and Chinese provinces could be classified into three groups, including good region, general region and poor region. (2) The SO2 emission reduction effect was the most in need of improvement to improve the performance efficiency. (3) The S&T investment played an important role in ECER because there was a positive correlation between the S&T investment scale and the ECER performance efficiency.

AIndustrial Ecology Opportunities between CHP and Arable Farming in Alloa, Scotland

pp. 299-307 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.09.008

Kai Whiting, Luis Gabriel Carmona

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Abstract

This paper addresses the potential for industrial ecology application at Alloa, Clackmannanshire, Scotland, between a consortium of arable farmers and a waste-to energy company. For improved onsite production, the average annual energy required to maintain the farmers’ proposed 3 ha greenhouse at optimal temperature (21°C during the day and 16°C at night) was calculated as 1448.8 MJ/m2. The coldest average temperatures, registered in February result in an energy requirement of around 3000 MJ/m2. The optimal quantity of carbon dioxide for the proposed glasshouse equates to 4032 kg of CO2 per day. In addition, the fertiliser produced by the waste-to-energy company will reduce the pesticide and chemical based nitrogen/potassium/phosphate demand. The authors identified that the heat, carbon dioxide and fertiliser produced at the proposed 10 MW CHP plant could be utilised by the consortium to produce higher quality food products in a symbiotic manner. The calculations undertaken indicate that the project is technically viable.

JEAM Volume 3, Issue 4

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Simulating the Dynamics of E-waste Production from Mobile Phone: Model Development and Case Study of Rwanda

pp. 309-322 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.11.001

Evariste Rutebuka, Lixiao Zhang, Mingyue Pang

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Abstract

Mobile phone sales and stocks showed an exponential growth in the past years globally and the annual number of mobile phones produced surpassed one billion in 2007. This soaring growth of related e-waste deserves sufficient attentions paid to it regionally and globally, since 40% of its total weight is made from metallic, of which 12 elements are identified to be highly hazardous. Different methods from different part of the world have been used to estimate the obsolete mobile phones but none has developed a dynamic model and handled the discrepancy resulting from improper approach and error in the input data. This study aimed to develop a comprehensive dynamic system model for simulating the dynamism of e-waste production from mobile phone specifically for African developing countries and to prevail over the previous errors. The logistic model method combined with Stella program were used to carry out this study. Then the simulation for Rwanda was conducted and compared with others countries’ results as model testing and validation. The results showed that Rwanda produced about 1.5 million obsolete mobile phones with 125 tons of waste in 2014 and e-waste production peak would appear in 2017. It is expected to reach 4.2 million obsoletes with 352 tons by 2020 along with environmental impact intensity of 21 times of 2005. Moreover, e-waste management policy for developing countries specifically for Rwanda has been suggested to reduce environmental impact up to 40% in 2020 and to 73% in 2030. The present study figured out the dynamism characteristic and outflow of the system design. It is concluded through the model testing and validation that the present dynamic model is competent and could deal with mobile phone e-waste production.

Environmental Accounting in Marine Protected Areas: the EAMPA Project

pp. 323-331 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.11.002

Pier Paolo Franzese, Elvira Buonocore, Chiara Paoli, Francesco Massa, Donati Stefano, Giorgio Fanciulli,

Antonino Miccio, Emanuele Mollica, Augusto Navone, Giovanni F. Russo1, Paolo Povero, Paolo Vassallo

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Abstract

The EAMPA project is a research programme focused on the implementation of an environmental accounting system for all the 29 Italian Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The main goal of such a system is the calculation of the ecological and economic value of the MPAs, with particular reference to the ecosystem services generated in each protected area. Environmental and economic costs as well as the impacts related to human activities in the MPAs will be also assessed. Finally, an overall balance and the assessment of net benefits will be calculated. To reach this goal, a multicriteria environmental accounting system will be implemented following a standardized protocol of assessment. The outcomes of the project will be managed through an operational WebGIS platform capable of spreading user-friendly information to local managers, policy makers, and other stakeholders. The environmental accounting system will be structured to be updatable over time, thus representing a useful tool for the management of the MPAs in the years to come. Moreover, the research programme represents a unique opportunity to establish a collaborative network among all Italian MPAs. Finally, the outcomes of the project will be also functional to other important and timely processes dealing with the study and protection of European marine ecosystems, such as the Marine Strategy Framework Directive.

Practice of Wagon Management Based on Shenhua Green Logistics Chain

pp. 333-341 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.11.003

Ying Yan

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Abstract

Freight cars as coal transport carriers play a crucial role throughout Shenhua green logistics chain. With the rational distribution of transport capacity, the efficient organization of transport, the constant improvement of equipment, the optimization of maintenance and the digitization, the railway wagon management of Shenhua has become a key strategy to achieve clean energy development. The capacity of Shenhua railway freight volume has now reached 3.46 tons by rational distribution of wagon flow according to different vehicle types. The fixed marshalling and fixed train number on Shenhua railway is not only greatly reduces the operation of detaining, placing-in and taking-out cars as well as the wagon turnaround time. The operation procedures and time standards of cargo loading and unloading at the stations of Shenhua railway had been established. These standards have been optimized and improved in the wagon management work, and have improved the efficiency of vehicles use. After the Zhuan 8A bogie transformation, the train running speed of the empty car increased from 70km to 80km. Compared with C80, the capacity of KM98 could be increased by 20%, the efficiency of port loading and unloading could be increased 2 to 5 times, the energy consumption of unloading could be decreased more than 80%. By optimizing the distribution of railway freight car repair and maintenance equipment, the current annual Shenhua shop repair capacity has reached 6000 compared to the designed capacity of 5000 cars per year; and the current annual Shenhua depot repair capacity has reached 36800 compared to the designed capacity of repair of 34200 cars per year.

Biosand Filter as a Household Water Treatment Technology in Ghana and its Ecobusiness Potential: An Assessment Using a Lifecycle Approach

pp. 343-353 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.11.004

Jonathan N. Hogarh, Fatai A. Sowunmi, Agbola P. Oluwafemi, Philip Antwi-Agyei, Daniel Nukpezah,

Calvin T. Atewamba

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Abstract

Biosand filter basically applies a system of sand, gravels and biologically active microorganisms to remove unwanted substances from drinking water. Field trials of the biosand filter for domestic water treatment in rural communities have shown remarkable health gains from its application. As such, there are calls to scale up its application in developing countries. This study investigated factors that may influence the acceptability of the biosand filter at the household level in rural communities in Ghana. The study further applied lifecycle environmental and cost assessments to analyse the eco-efficiency potential of the biosand filter and examined prospects of leveraging this potential for green business development. The key demographic and socio-economic indicators of biosand filter acceptability related to gender, age, education and wealth. Females showed greater interest in the biosand filter, while discrete increase in age, relative advancement in education and economic status of respondents may each increase the prospects of purchasing biosand filter. Compared to local sachet water production, which was considered as a quasialternative to the biosand filter, it was established that the latter has superior eco-efficiency, provided quite comparable profitability and potentially viable for eco-business development. The information yielded by this study is useful for scaling up considerations of the biosand filter technology in Ghana and other West African countries.

Valuation of Ecosystem Services in Protected Areas: The Case of the Abisko National Park (Sweden)

pp. 355-369 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.11.005

Natasha Nikodinoska, Alessandro Paletto, Pier Paolo Franzese, Christer Jonasson

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Abstract

Sub-Artic ecosystems have evolved and adapted to extreme environmental condition. Yet, these ecosystems are vulnerable to local and global impacts due to human activities and climate change. In addition, a controversial debate over land use in the Swedish Lapland is still open, involving different stakeholders’ interests and activities. The Abisko National Park (Swedish sub-Arctic Lapland) is one of the Europe’s largest remaining wilderness areas and an important tourist attraction. In this study, an economic valuation of the main ecosystem services (ES) was performed by using the Contingent Valuation (CV) method. The categories of ES generated in the Park were identified and tourists were chosen as main stakeholders in the area. Tourists were then interviewed about their perception on ES and their willingness to pay (WTP) for supporting conservation activities capable of preserving the functionality of the Park to provide different goods and services. Results show that 61% of the respondents were willing to pay for the implementation of adaptation strategies coping with climate change impact. The mean individual WTP were found to be 6.20 € for the provisioning services, 5.69 € for the regulating services, 6.35 € for supporting services, 4.09 € for cultural services, while the total mean WTP per tourist was found to be 22.33 €. In addition, statistically significant correlations between tourists’ perceptions and individual WTP for three ES categories were found. These outcomes could support local decision makers in charge for the implementation of climate change adaptation strategies in the Park. However, it is important to remark that for a more comprehensive assessment of ecosystem services and their role in support of human well-being, the economic valuation should be integrated by a solid biophysical accounting.

Using Emergy to Assess the Business Plan of a Small Auto-parts Manufacturer in Brazil

pp. 371-384 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.11.006

C.M.V.B. Almeida, N. Carvalho, F. Agostinho, B. F. Giannetti

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Abstract

The initiative of evaluating products using the supply chain standpoint to help reducing the environmental and socioeconomic impact connected with manufacturing has been recently acknowledged. Yet, there are no studies making an allowance for the various types of small businesses that operate in the sphere of influence of large supply chains to fill gaps or serve consumers with particular needs. These little companies that, in general, have no control over the decisions made along the supply chain have to reconcile their production processes with the decisions taken by the leading companies. This work evaluates a case of induced product change, and its cost regarding the use of environmental resources and energy of a small company working in the Brazilian automotive aftermarket. This approach also looks into an underexplored aspect in the use of emergy accounting in which the studied system is at the end of the production chain, and confirms the thought that actions in the central supply chain may have advantageous effects that can go beyond what was expected by the decision maker. The simulation performed for the period 2014-2025, according to the company's commerce plan, shows that the earlier the products change is completed, the greater would be the profit, the greater the resources and energy savings, and, consequently, the greater ecoefficiency of the business.

ECO-CITIES: UE NET Systems Integration as New Paradigm Shift in Sustainable Energy Generation and Utilization

pp. 385-394 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2015.11.007

Steve-Wonder Amakpah, Gengyuan Liu

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Abstract

Cities are responsible for approximately three-quarters of the world's energy consumption, so they play a major role in energy issues such as economic security and climate change. To contribute to the limited literature on advanced energy research such as UE NET and eco-cities energy systems in China, this research investigates the energy system of Qingdao Eco-park. It explores the efficiency of an emerging energy system, Ubiquitous Energy Internet (simply called UE NET) Technology and its application in eco-cities as the new paradigm shift in energy generation and utilization towards achieving sustainable development. Published data on environment and energy indicators for example carbon emission intensity, energy consumption and the final project proposals of Qingdao Eco-park on the energy potential of UE NET were scientifically analyzed. Results indicate that UE NET technology system has a high power saving potential than any stand-alone energy generation options. Energy awareness enables new sets of interactive energy-saving behaviors where devices control their power state to meet user needs while minimizing energy use (Lanzisera et al., 2014). This assertion does not only support findings of this research in a broader perspective, but specifically calls for “energy-integration” that is not just new but very efficient. To achieve this, including low carbon emission intensity reduction, a rigorous further research on UE NET technology in China with full policy-maker support is highly recommended.

JEAM Volume 4, Issue 1

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Application of Cluster Analysis and Development of A Lifecycle Environmental Performance Indicator to Categorise Construction Materials

pp. 1-11 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.03.001

Antonino Marvuglia, Paula Hild, Bianca Schmitt, Enrico Benetto

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Abstract

This paper presents a two-step analysis of a set of construction materials: (1) a preliminary classification of the materials according to their environmental performances; (2) the definition of an aggregated indicator (called UIL5) of the lifecycle environmental performance of each material. Two different clustering techniques were applied and the results obtained shown a very good level of agreement. The first is an agglomerative clustering technique and the second is a non-supervised neural network (called self-organizing map). Each material was represented by a vector of six elements: five midpoint indicator values of the potential environmental impact of the material and, in addition, its cumulated primary energy (non-renewable), all normalized by cubic meter and by a function of the conductivity of the material. This kind of normalization was chosen to take into account the function with respect to which we compare the materials to each other in this application, i.e. their thermal insulation capacity, which depends on the thickness of the material’s layer and on its thermal conductivity. The two clustering techniques yielded coherent results and the visual observation of the obtained clusters allowed the identification of potential explanatory variables that could be used to determine threshold values to distinguish classes of materials on the basis of their environmental performances.

Kaizen Application at The Reception Stage in a Sugarcane Plant

pp. 13-21 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.03.002

Manoel Gonçales Filho, Marcos José Barros, Fernando Celso de Campos

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Abstract

The main reasons for the decline of the sugar and alcohol sector in the last decade are the increased cost of production, delayed investment in the recovery of sugarcane plantations aiming higher production volumes, lack of competitiveness of ethanol and sugar and lack of investment in new technologies. This situation faced by the sugarcane industry in Piracicaba/ SP leads the sugarcane companies to seek increasingly competitiveness. This condition leads to continuous improvements, like the development of production systems. In this sense, a new operational and strategic orientation is needed to achieve the objective of profit maximization, and to excel in the current situation through an increase in productivity. In this paper, we intend to achieve the application of kaizen in the production process of a sugar and alcohol plant, specifically, at the reception of sugarcane. Therefore, this paper aims to apply the concept of lean manufacturing to maximize the yield of sugarcane reception process. The research method used was obtained in an exploratory literature review of the main concepts of lean production in order to provide the necessary basis for application of kaizen. A case study was carried out for the implementation of the concept. The contribution of this work is at pointing out improvements in the sugarcane reception process through a lean tool, the Current and Future Value Stream Mapping.

Analysis of the Energy Consumption Structure in Shanxi Province Based on Carbon Emissions

pp. 23-36 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.03.003

Jinjian Li, Yan Zhang, Gengyuan Liu, Hongmei Zheng, Linlin Xia, Xiaoxi Sun

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Abstract

As one of the most important energy supply and consumption provinces in China, Shanxi has been under great pressure in carbon abatement because of its high-carbon economy. Thus, it is imperative to adjust the energy structure and explore effective ways for energy conservation and carbon emission reduction in Shanxi Province. Based on the energy consumption and carbon emission of different types of energy source, this paper analyzed the carbon emission of each industrial sector in Shanxi from 2003 to 2012, discussed the transfer of carbon emission responsibility caused by inter-provincial energy import and export, and introduced an energy consumption structure index to evaluate the structural characteristics of energy consumption for specific sectors. The results revealed that, during 2003 to 2012, the carbon emission in Shanxi Province increased significantly, which was mainly contributed by the consumption of coal and coke; while the carbon emission of briquette and natural gas grew fastest. From the sectoral perspective, industry and thermal power sectors contributed most to the total carbon emission of this province. About 20%-30% of the electricity produced by the thermal power sector was used for the external supply, so from the perspective of regional fair, the regions who receive the energy should take some responsibility for the corresponding carbon emission. The overall energy structure of Shanxi Province improved gradually. Except for the continuous low emission efficiency of thermal power and heating sectors, most of other sectors showed the energy structure trend towards higher emission efficiency, which represented a lower carbon-intensive development. Based on the energy structure characteristics, recommendations covering both energy conservation and emission reduction were provided to support the lowcarbon economy development in Shanxi Province. Three major measures included the industrial restructuring, energy structure adjustment, and emission reduction on transportation.

Some Metrological Limitations to Rain Impact Computation in Storm Erosivity as Defined in the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation, Version 2 (RUSLE2)

pp. 37-44 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.03.004

Marco Casazza

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Abstract

The theoretical and the instrumental metrological basis for computation of rainfall impact in storm erosivity as defined in the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation, version 2 (RUSLE2) are considered. The present determination of rainfall erosivity is based on two factors: E, representing the rainfall kinetic energy, and I30, the maximum 30-minutes intensity for a given precipitation event. The present short review evidences some of the existing metrological limitations: (1) the non separation between the impact of falling rain and shallow flow of water; (2) the use of a non-universal semiempirical approach, (3) the absence of a clear model with respect to rain flow, runoff and soil wetting; (4) the use of a hybrid measure unit; (5) the intrinsic limitation of measuring technologies. The improvement of the existing parameter calculation techniques or a transition from a prevailing semi-empirical to a mainly physical-based approach would be desirable, even if this transformation shouldn’t affect the usability of the developed tools for practitioners.

Impact of Regional Management Alternatives and Land Conversion on the Net Primary Productivity in Heilongjiang Province, China

pp. 45-58 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.03.005

Fanghua Hao, Wenyan Wang, Wei Ouyang, Yun Luan

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Abstract

The Chinese government has initiated a set of ecological restoration projects to address aggravated environmental pollution and land degradation; among these projects the Grain for Green Project (GFGP) is the most renowned policy with a significant influence on land use and land cover change (LUCC) in China. The Net Primary Productivity (NPP) as a key index of ecosystem productivity, was studied to estimate the contribution of LUCC and management alternatives as human factors in Heilongjiang Province from 2001 to 2012. Carnegie–Ames–Stanford Approach (CASA) model was been utilized to simulate NPP during the study areas. The results showed that the LUCC from cropland to forest was the main type of land transformation induced by the GFGP, whereas the significant increase of the NPP occurred in forest, cropland and grassland between 2001 and 2007. Since 2007, the greatest rise of the total NPP occurred in the cropland with a rise of 12.6%, and the forest and grassland NPP slightly declined. The newly restored forests were located in the extremely frigid area at the junction or margin of mountains and plains where there is lack of supervision and the benefit of GFGP is difficult to observe in a short period. The temporal-spatial results of the NPP changes induced by human activities reflect the vital role that management practices play in the change of NPP compared with LUCC in Heilongjiang Province. Our analysis indicates that the fragile ecological environment of Heilongjiang Province has not changed fundamentally, and there is still a risk of cyclical fluctuations. As a result, scientific management alternatives in the unchanged land should be implemented and combined with restoration projects with middle- and long-term perspectives, such as logging limits in the forest, natural fire prevention and the improvement of fertilizer and irrigation practices. The Chinese government is initiating a new round of the GFGP, and the research results would be helpful in guiding the policy implementation in the local regions.

A Long-Term Challenge – Enabling the Uptake of Advanced MBT Technologies in Eastern European Countries

pp. 59-71 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.03.006

K. Hornsby, L. Benesova, M. Zimová

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Abstract

This study considers the case of Czech Republic (CR), as a relatively new EU member state, looking at opportunities and challenges enabling this country to make the step-wise transition from the current dependence on fossil fuels (for energy production), incineration (for a fast way to deal with waste), and landfilling (as a cheap option for disposal) to one which reflects current concerns about climate change and moves towards a more circular resource saving economy. Part of the facilitation towards improvements in structures and processes in CR is to consider innovative developments especially in the area of treatment and recycling of municipal solid waste (MSW) based on mechanical biological treatment (MBT) technologies, as well as lessons learnt from other more advanced EU countries in waste management structures. An appropriate response to the climate change concerns has been the revised targets in reducing landfilling and increasing renewable energy sources towards a more sustainable energy use and waste management. In spite of the fact that the EU has issued key pieces of waste management and renewable energy Directives, compliance with diversion targets away from landfilling and renewable energy quotas are still considered too ambitious and far out of the reach of many Eastern European countries. This research holistically focuses on the MARSS 1 technology and its potential application and stakeholder acceptance in CR. MARSS is one-of-a-kind proven technology to remove and stabilise the biogenic fraction of MSW, to prevent landfilling and yield a refined biomass fuel for combined heat and power (CHP) production. Results from this study indicate that the MARSS technology has a higher potential in helping CR’s obligations to reduce the landfilling of organic material reduce CO2 emissions so complying with Annual Emission Agreements (AEA), as well as with adopted EU legislation in waste management, renewable energy and the circular economy. Based on the interviews carried out with key stakeholder groups, there are some positive indications that MBT plus MARSS could be an option, but it needs more time for development and implementation of new national legislation and an improvement in the markets to encourage confidence in the investment communities.

Dynamics of Eco-Cities: A Review of Concepts towards Operationalizing Sustainable Urbanization

pp. 73-86 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.03.007

Steve-Wonder Amakpah, Martin Larbi, Gengyuan Liu, Lixiao Zhang

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Abstract

The need for cities to transition towards a more sustainable urban development has become imperative given the combined impact of climate change, global ecological overshoot, and rapid urbanization. The Ecocity has emerged as an urban modernization concept that attempts to reframe urban development for sustainable outcomes, yet there have been several alterations and coining of new terminologies to describe an ecocity, mainly based of concepts and the design methodology and/or the purpose the city is to serve. Even though the eco-city concept and development profess to have some basic principles – dogma – mostly based on urban sustainability, the rapid changes in terminology in recent times calls the attention of many policy makers, investors, development promoters and stakeholders, as well as researchers alike. Beyond these corporate borders, are also the culture (people) and the environment that are influenced by (and interacts with) the eco-city. However, there is no widely accepted framework for assessing Eco-cities. Besides, the methods and outcomes of Eco-cities; and how these outcomes can be evaluated to determine the performance of Eco-cites remain unresolved. This paper presents a framework for assessing the performance of Eco-cities. It argues that due to the inherent differences in the culture, topography, climate, economy, infrastructural base, and technological advancement etc. of cities around the world, Eco-cities may embody distinct characteristics in the way they are understood and applied in different regions. Nonetheless, using a common benchmark across geographical regions, one can do performance assessment of Eco-cities, which can be basis for replication, accessibility, as well as serve as goal metrics.

Adult Chronic Exposure to Neurotoxic Metals Associated with Atmospheric Aerosols: A Case Study in The Urban Area of Turin (NW Italy)

pp. 87-99 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.03.008

Marco Casazza, Valter Maurino, Mery Malandrino

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Abstract

Particulate Matter (PM) pollution still represents a great concern for its adverse effects on human health. Among the emerging risks, the neurotoxicity of PM-associated metals has been evidenced by the scientific literature. Since PM inhalation plays an important role with respect to its toxicity, there is a recognized need for improving the studies with respect to its deposition sites. This work is focused on the assessment of PM10- associated metals in the urban environment of Turin (NW Italy), one of the most polluted European areas. Data of PM10-associated metals mass size distribution, percentage repartition associated to the respiratory apparatus, relative concentration peaks, together with preferential deposition sites and the daily inhaled dose have been calculated. The analyzed metals were: As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sn, V and Zn. The data are limited, considering a precautionary approach, to the winter season, when the intensity and number of sources is greater and only in the case of stable good weather conditions, when the atmospheric removal processes have a more limited impact on the aerosol dynamics. The results show that the element concentrations in Torino atmospheric PM are similar to those of other considered European towns. The measures evidence a preferential association of each metal with different areas of the respiratory apparatus Furthermore, ordering the analyzed metals with respect to the daily inhaled dose, from higher to lower, we have: Fe, Zn, Sn, Cd, Mn, Cu, Pb, Ni, Cr, Mo, V, As and Co. Even if the risk doesn’t seem to be significant up to now (apart from Cr), the evolving knowledge on the effects of chronic sub-threshold exposure might give a different evidence in the future. PM10 size repartition measurement, together with the analysis of PM10-associated compounds, could well intermittently complement the routine air quality measures with the purpose of increasing the present body of knowledge with respect to PM neurotoxicity, allowing to improve both the existing risk assessment procedures and the public health management.

JEAM Volume 4, Issue 2

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Energy and Urban Systems

pp. 101-103 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.06.001

Pier Paolo Franzese, David Lazarevic, Sudhakara Reddy

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Abstract

Energy and environmental security are major problems facing our global economy. Fossil fuels, particularly crude oil, are confined to a few regions of the world while the continuity of supply is governed by dynamic political, economic, and ecological factors. Cities and urban systems are largely dependent on local and imported resources in support of both quantitative and qualitative growth. However, modern cities are experiencing shortages of energy, water, clean air, social relations and cohesion, social inclusion, and ultimately lack of participatory governance of city complexity. At present about 50% of the world population (i.e., about 3.5 billion people) live in cities. The resource basis seems to be insufficient and unfairly distributed to support an acceptable standard of living for a large fraction of urban and rural population. In addition, the concentration of resources required to support cities places a huge load on surrounding environment. For these reasons, cities must face the challenge of reorganizing their infrastructures and lifestyles to cope with the decreasing availability of resources. The priority in policy making is to identify suitable policies to reorganize urban life in the presence of a shrinking resource basis. Such reorganization will have to make cities less energy and material demanding, although still providing high quality standards of life. This cannot occur without investments, research, and important and shared choices about lifestyles.

Exploring Residents’ Willingness to Pay for Renewable Energy Supply: Evidences from an Italian Case Study

pp. 105-113 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.06.002

Gianluca Grilli, Jessica Balest, Giulia Garegnani, Alessandro Paletto

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Abstract

The present study offers a contingent valuation application to explore residents ´ willingness to pay for renewable energy, in a case study in the Italian Alps. Data originated from onsite personal interviews and were analyzed with a Tobit model. Results show that respondents are willing to pay, on average, 5.1€ per month for a 100% of renewable energy supply, corresponding approximately to a 13% increase in the energy bill. Among the factors positively affecting the answers, the personal knowledge about renewable energy plays a key role in predicting WTP, as well as income and the personal perception of future possible development of hydropower plants. On the other hand, age and number of household components negatively affect WTP.

Eco-Compensation Analyses for Drinking Water Reserves Based on Integrated Ecosystem Health Assessment

pp. 115-127 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.06.003

Meng Xu, Chunhui Li, Nan Shen, Yanpeng Cai, Xuan Wang

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Abstract

Eco-compensation is used to deal with varying eco-environmental issues associated with possible resources transfer. It aims to translate nonmarket values of any environmental services into real financial incentives for the concerned stakeholders. In this paper, an integrated ecocompensation approach was proposed based on ecosystem health assessment through incorporating the assessment results into the assessment criteria. Compensation ranges were identified and taken as the references to formulate short-, middle- and long-term eco-compensation targets. Then, Xin’an Drinking Water Reserve in China was used as a studying case, the calculated results of compensation amounts were (63.1, 122.9); (128.4, 192.5) and (195.2, 202.1) million RMB Yuan, respectively, under short-, middle- and long-terms. Through comparing results with those of the previous approaches, the developed approach have the following advantages: a) with the aim of ecological reclamation, the results based on the integrated approach could reflect the real costs needed for ecological recovery of the previously contaminated reserves; b) comparatively flexible since it can adjust its eco-compensation targets flexibly according to the practical situation for ecosystem recovery levels; and c) the value intervals could indicate the degrees of compensation inputs on the overall ecological recovery, thus the possible compensation targets could be established accordingly.

Soil Loss as a Negative Externality in the Emergy Accounting: Case Study of an Agricultural Commodities Municipality in the Brazilian Savannah

pp. 129-147 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.06.004

Luz Selene Buller, Gustavo Bayma-Silva, Enrique Ortega, Ivan Bergier

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Abstract

Brazilian agriculture has become prominent in the world in the last decades, especially by virtue of the expansion of agricultural commodities in the Cerrado biome with about 204 million of hectares in the central part of the country. From the 1960's, the Cerrado has been occupied by migrants from southern Brazil who have converted the native vegetation (mostly woody savannas) into extensive pastures and monocrops. From coffee and cotton in the initial Cerrado’s agricultural occupation to soybean, corn, cattle and swine nowadays, the landscape suffered a huge transformation and several liabilities related to ecosystem services loss are emerging. São Gabriel do Oeste is a typical agricultural municipality of the Cerrado and, therefore, can be considered as representative of the current agricultural model. Along with climate change impacts of the conventional agriculture through greenhouse gas emissions, soil loss is worrying because it is not truly renewable if incorrectly managed. The emergy assessment of the agricultural system, including soil loss as a nonrenewable flow, was compared to the assessment including soil loss as a negative externality to better understand its impact on the emergy indicators. Soil loss and GHG emissions accounts for 95% of the total externalities and soil loss alone, for 46%. Moreover, different levels of soil loss were accounted for to infer its impact on the productive and economic systems. In addition, to conclude the assessment, the native forest area to compensate the dependence of the system on economy resources was calculated. The additional native vegetation area reaches 61% of the municipality area and the cost to the native forestry recovery is estimated in 1,039 EM$.ha-1·year-1. The results here presented can be useful for new agricultural public policies related to the ecosystem services compensation and payment mechanisms taking into account the extent and magnitude of ecosystem services loss.

Modeling Urban System Sustainability as Impacting Energy System

pp. 149-174 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.06.005

Nibedita Dash, P. Balachandra

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Abstract

Increasing urbanization, in terms of growth in population as well as geographical spread, in developing countries has significant implications for the transport sector. They are manifested as two important indicators – increases in traffic volume and energy consumption. The energy resource constraints, threat of climate change and infrastructure inadequacies have transformed the above two into serious challenges and thus needing immediate attention of planners and policy makers. Adding to the above challenges, recent times have witnessed creation of more sub-urban centers with dispersed activities and hence requiring increased travel needs with higher traffic volumes. However, there is inadequate research in understanding the casual interactions among various agents (or subsystems) of an urban system in relation to transport system, its impact on energy system and consequently on the sustainability of the system as a whole. In this paper, we discuss an attempt to study such interactions by dividing the urban system into many sub-systems, linking these with mobility (or transport) sub-system and then analyzing its combined effect on energy system. The conceptual framework is developed on the premise that each subsystem will have an input and an output and these can be modeled through indicators. Further, these indicators have been mapped into three dimensions of sustainability, namely, social, economic and environmental. Appropriate indicators are chosen to represent the three dimensions. The framework has been validated using data from 36 Indian cities. The extent of sustainability in each dimension is assessed against energy subsystem represented by output indicators. Overall measure of urban system sustainability is established as an average effect of each dimension of sustainability. We contribute in developing new understanding of the underlying role of urban system dynamics towards sustainability, by disintegrating it into residential, employment and mobility subsystems and their impact on the energy system.

Evaluating the Energy Sustainability of Urban Agriculture Towards More Resilient Urban Systems

pp. 175-193 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.06.006

Patrizia Ghisellini, Marco Casazza

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Abstract

Food is the primary energetic need for humankind. It provides energy and nutrients, but its acquisition requires energy expenditure. This fact is particularly important, when considering the urban environment, since human communities organized within cities almost exclusively rely on the import of resources to meet their daily basic needs. Field-to-fork chain and its energetic cost depends on the organization of the food production and transformation processes, which, in turn, can be influenced by the city-countryside relationship idea and the organization of both the urbanization process and the agricultural production. A solution might come from the urban agriculture development and management. A short review of the state-of-theart about urban agriculture, energy and urban resilience is given, together with an historical overview of the city-countryside relationship idea development, which still influences the evolution of urban agriculture. The results show that urban agriculture in the different forms partially contribute to address food security in urban centres both in developed and developing countries. It also provides many environmental, economic and social benefits. However, in particular the energetic and environmental impacts of the different forms should be widely investigated on-site to understand whether UA is a sustainable option.

Developing Methods and Tools for Local Target-oriented Action Selection Processes in the Transport System

pp. 195-208 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.06.007

Markus Robèrt

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Abstract

The Swedish Transport Administration, together with public transport providers, municipalities, transport planners, and other stakeholders, has launched a new concept for transport planning called Local Action Selection Process (LASP). The aim of LASP is to create informed decisions and consensus around alternative accessibility improvements in the transport system through a process of dialogue between public authorities and other stakeholders. On the national scale, Sweden has set some of the world’s toughest climate targets, implying a transport sector independent of fossil fuels by 2030. The aim of this study was to create a structured methodology and process format for integrating the national transport targets at a local scale in LASP by constructing quantifiable and tailor-made target scenarios. The so-called CERO model (Climate and Economic Research in Organizations) for target-oriented travel planning at organization level was reformed in this work to handle scenario generation and prioritization of measures in LASP. In addition, a simulation tool was developed to support the quantitative basis for scenario generation and decision making between stakeholders in the planning process.

The New Chautauqua Game: Designing the Renewable City and Region Using E[m]ergy Accounting

pp. 209-221 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.06.008

William W. Braham†, Luke Butcher, Jill Sornson Kurtz, Mostapha Sadeghipour Roudsari, Janki Vyas

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Abstract

This paper presents the results of a simplified method for reconfiguring a small city and rural county to support its current population on the environmental energies available within the boundaries of the county. It is configured as a game, based on the simplifying assumption that the collection and concentration of renewable energies is almost entirely a matter of surface or land area, so that a renewable economy becomes a matter of competing land uses, of tradeoffs between land used for the production of food, fuel, electricity, and so on. Emergy accounting was used to translate different forms of consumption into equivalent land areas, while the many forms of production and consumption were reduced to 29 parameters that can be varied to test alternate scenarios for the county. The results have been coded into a web site for playing the game.

JEAM Volume 4, Issue 3

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A Review: Simulation and Optimization Modelling for CO2 Geological Storage

pp. 223-252 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.09.001

Yanpeng Cai, Cong Dong, Jianying Cai

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Abstract

As one of the most effective ways to reduce greenhouse gas emission in the short to medium terms, CO2 sequestration and storage has attracted much attention in many countries across the world. Due to the high potential capacity globally, geological storage of CO2 is considered as an applicable technology to a wide spectrum of geological sites. In this complex process, many economic, technical, political, and environmental factors are involved, causing conflicts among multiple objectives. Management of CO2 capture and storage is thus essential for analyzing tradeoffs among these objective, and reducing the associated risks to local communities. Although great efforts have been made, effective design and management of various CO2 storage systems, as well as analysis of associated risks are still challenging to practitioners. In recent years, simulation and optimization methods have been used for addressing important management problems of CO2 capture and storage. The combined simulation-optimization approaches can account for the complex behaviours of the storage process and can help identify the best management strategies under consideration of the management objectives and constraints, as well as the associated risks. During the past decades, a large number of studies were conducted to simulate CO2 flow and transport in the geological substrate, and seek cost-effective storage schemes. This paper presented a comprehensive review on recent developments, advancements, challenges, and barriers associated with simulation and optimization modeling approaches in supporting CO2 capture and geological storage. A number of methodologies and applications were examined. Perspectives of effective management schemes were investigated, demonstrating many demanding areas for enhanced research efforts, which included issues of data availability and reliability, concerns in uncertainty, necessity of post-modeling analysis, and usefulness of development of process control techniques.

Greening A Cuban Local Mango Supply Chain: Sustainability Options and Management Strategies

pp. 253-268 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.09.002

B.F. Giannetti, L. Prevez, F. Agostinho, C. M. V. B. Almeida

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Abstract

Articulating all actors and activities of supply chain having an impact on sustainability is a complex task especially for a limited domestic market production sector. This complexity is the result of several factors, such as the quality of the product, the degree of competitiveness and the high costs of transactions, which arise from a small economic scale. This paper proposes a sustainability analysis using emergy accounting and the Cleaner Production approach applied to the case study of a mango pulp supply chain on a local level in Santiago de Cuba. The results obtained show that the current agricultural economy model is characterized by i) the use of chemical fertilizers, II) a large presence of labor and iii) a small use of natural resources. The cleaner production strategy applied to the local fruit supply chain increased the benefits for ecosystems and society. Emergy indices pointed towards higher efficiency, lower energy appropriation for production, lesser pressure on the environment, and a greater contribution to the local economy. The assessment method used proved to be helpful in evaluating the agricultural chains dynamics, especially, after the introduction of Cleaner Production practices.

Embodied Services of Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A Case Study of the EU Member Countries

pp. 269-286 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.09.003

Meirong Su, Ying Zheng, Stephan Pauleit, Yan Hao, Xuemei Yin, Gengyuan Liu, Yan Zhang

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Abstract

Decreasing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions is a globally agreed goal for mitigating climate change. Considering previous disputes between countries and the negative emotions subconsciously injected into those responsible for the management of the problem, it is useful to reconsider how to ensure that more countries actively contribute to climate change mitigation. Here, we propose a new concept of ‘embodied services of GHG emissions’ to express the underlying services associated with GHG emissions. Based on a developed assessment framework and indicators, we rank the 28 EU member countries in terms of embodied services of GHG emissions. Analyzing these countries’ results geospatially presented an archaeopteryx pattern, where countries on the two wings have the highest levels of embodied services while those on the back and tail have the lowest. The results are also analyzed for each country over time allowing efforts made by those countries to be displayed in different aspects. We believe that the proposed concept has effective resolution for both spatial and temporal scales. We anticipate that countries’ willingness to engage in climate change mitigation will be stimulated by targeting improvement of embodied services of GHG emissions as an additional, beneficial goal, which also embodies equality and incentivizing aspects.

Technical and Economical Assessment of Biomass Potential for Power Production: A Study in the South of Italy

pp. 287-299 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.09.004

Antonio Messineo, Davide Bonasera, Roberto Volpe, Simona Messineo, Antonino Marvuglia

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Abstract

The use of biomass, among the various forms of renewable energy, has assumed a key role in the current European Union agenda. In 2005 the European Commission launched a “biomass action plan” in order to promote the development of biomass energy from wood, waste and agricultural crops and stimulate economic activities in rural areas. Among the various types of biomass, agroforestry residues are the prevalent amount in the country and the most readily available. However their use, in the production of electricity or in a cogeneration form, has not taken off for small plants. The main problems are related to the local availability of the resource, to logistics problems, to the purchase price and to the reliability of conversion technologies. This paper aims to analyze the residual agroforestry biomass (herbaceous and woody) in the administrative province of the city of Enna (Italy) and to evaluate the financial viability of a small gasification plant (< 1 MWe) with and without cogeneration. The support of a Geographic Information System (GIS) is used to identify the suitable areas for biomass exploitation and optimal localization of the conversion plants using a multi-criteria analysis based on different measures. The financial viability was evaluated for different scenarios based on investment costs, management costs and revenues from the selling of electricity for different plant sizes and number of yearly operational hours.

The Development of Hydropower Resources at American Watershed Scale and Its Enlightenment to China

pp. 301-316 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.09.005

Liang Chen, Xin Sui, Zhaokai Dong, Sainan Wu, Hong Zhou

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Abstract

Hydropower resources are priority areas of energy construction in various countries throughout the world, and are also important measures for China by which to ensure the energy supply and achieve the development goal of non-fossil energy. Developed countries, in particular the United States, have rich experience in the development and construction of hydropower resources. Therefore, understanding the experience of the United States in the development of hydropower resources bears important enlightenment to the development of hydropower resources in China. This paper gives a systematic review of the survey data previously and newly released by the US Department of Energy; based on this, analyzes the development status of hydropower resources of all watersheds in the United States and the development potential of newly increased hydropower resources; and recounts the development level of hydropower resources at American watershed. At the same time, in consideration to the implementation of efficiency increase and capacity expansion planning in the United States in the future, this paper further predicts the development level of hydropower resources at all watersheds in the United States after this planning has been implemented. Finally, the paper summarizes the experience of the United States in the development of hydropower resources, along with its enlightenment to the development of hydropower resources of China. This study shows that electric construction strategies for the priority development of hydropower, introduction of key constraints to assess the development potential of hydropower resources, and efficiency increase and capacity expansion transformation to intensify the hydropower development are powerful guarantees of hydropower development in the United States, and these also provide important reference value for developing the hydropower resources of China.

Emergy Evaluation of Domestic Wastewater Treatments: The Role of Energy and Materials Consumption and Carbon Emissions

pp. 317-338 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.09.006

B.F. Giannetti, C.C. Silva, F. Agostinho, C.M.V.B. Almeida

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Abstract

Technologies for domestic wastewater treatment systems can be planned and constructed to use locally available materials lessening the need for resupply materials and to fit the local conditions. However, most plans for wastewater treatment systems do not consider the renewable support required to dilute plants' emissions. Solutions for mitigating environmental impacts and achieve sustainable environments with low carbon depend on the accounting for the available local resources and the environmental services required for diluting emissions. Two example applications of domestic wastewater treatment metabolism are discussed using sustainability indicators and inputs to the greenhouse gas emissions calculation. The analysis compares upstream and downstream environmental investments and may be used to advise public policies for sustainable regional and urban development.

Accounting For Urban Carbon Dioxide: A Review

pp. 339-351 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.09.007

Yan Zhang, Juan Li, Gengyuan Liu

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Abstract

Cities are the main contributors to the global climate change. Accounting for urban carbon sources and sinks is necessary for the development of low-carbon cities. This paper compares and analyses the carbon accounting standards by summarizing the research of urban carbon accounting items and methods, to serve as a reference for future studies of urban carbon accounting. Three carbon accounting standards are compared to analyse the differences in the applied scales and in the accounting emphasis. Carbon accounting items and methods are conducted based on artificial carbon sources, natural carbon sources and natural carbon sinks. Three suggestions are proposed to further develop urban carbon accounting. First, carbon emissions from human and soil respiration should be included in carbon source accounting. Second, because of the frequent interactions between cities and surrounding areas, the embodied carbon emission of goods and services imported to cities should be emphasized. Third, to increase the accuracy of urban carbon accounting, on site measurement should be reinforced to accumulate first-hand data of time series.

JEAM Volume 4, Issue 4

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Material and Energy Demand for Soybean Production in Argentina

pp. 353-367 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.12.001

Mariana Totino, Silvia D. Matteucci, Pablo Arístide

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Abstract

Since the 1990s, Argentina's agriculture suffered great transformations due to the use of GM soybean. This crop has been transferred from the most fertile area of the country, Pampa, to areas with greater environmental fragility like Chaco. The agricultural model is highly dependent on external inputs, and while there is qualitative information about the process called "sojización", quantitative studies of the demand for materials and energy of soybean in Argentina at local level have not yet been done. The objective of this study is to evaluate such demand and determine which inputs are those with higher loading of materials and energy using MFA (Material Flow Analysis) and Embodied Energy Analysis (EEA), respectively. The results indicate that the greatest demand is abiotic mass, and, within it, the loss of topsoil is the most important. The total amount of material inputs required by soybean production was 6.6 kg/kg of soybean. The greatest value is the abiotic mass, with 3.91 kg/kg of soybean, followed by water, with 2.44 kg/kg of soybean. Extrapolating the obtained data in the study area, we can roughly estimate the material and energy consumption in the entire country. For example, agrochemical use by soybean was one third of the total used in Argentina during the analyzed campaign (2009-2010). In terms of embodied energy, each kg of soybean requires 0.02 kg of oil equivalent, i.e. 9.68E+05 J/kg of soybean. According to our results, 25% of energy consumption in the agricultural sector of Argentina is solely due to soybean production. Over the course of recent decades it was shown that the industrial agricultural system, highly dependent on supplies and materials, is not a solution to the problems of food shortages, but rather, it is the cause of many of them, as well as the cause of significant impacts on the environment and humans.

Sustainability Assessment of Intensive Agriculture in Argentina. Focus on Upstream (Emergy) and Downstream (Emissions) Environmental Impacts.

pp. 369-383 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.12.002

Mariana Totino, Silvia D. Matteucci

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Abstract

After the Industrial Revolution the agricultural sector was one of the most transformed. The activity releases CO2 and generates a change in land use, advancing on ecosystems with native vegetation, which function as carbon sinks. The model of industrial agriculture is highly dependent on inputs in the form of materials and energy, mainly fossil fuels but there are other hidden constraints that rely on the environmental quality of resources used and the extent of downstream impacts generated by their use in a process, that do not emerge clearly from investigating only material and commercial energy. As a consequence, additional investigation with alternative approaches, like emergy and emission assessment, is needed. In this article the analysis focuses on the emergy assessment and pollutant emissions by soybean production in two Argentine localities with environmental differences, one in the province of Buenos Aires (Rojas) and the other in the Chaco province (Charata). We used an upstream method (Emergy Accounting) and a downstream method (CML2 baseline 2000). Both sites show Renewability smaller than 35%. The total amount of CO2eq emitted in Charata is 0.80 ton/ha/yr and 0.81 ton/ha/yr in Rojas. However, the local conditions, the impact of industrial agriculture is very high. In Chaco region, possible regulations that establish the afforestation of certain areas around soybean crops should be analyzed, to operate not only as carbon sinks but also as barriers for agrochemical drift.

Sustainable Milk Production: Application of the Hierarchical Analytical Process Towards a Regional Strategic Planning

pp. 385-398 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.12.003

Max W. Olveira, Feni Agostinho, Cecília M.V.B. Almeida, Biagio F. Giannetti

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Abstract

Milk corresponds to 20% of the Brazilian agribusiness GDP and its production is concentrated at Minas Gerais State. Different milk production systems co-exist in this region, which results in different sustainability performance and call for a multi-criteria analysis to subsidize decisions towards a regional milk production planning. This work uses the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) to hierarchize milk production systems as for their sustainability. A cluster analysis considering 92 milk producers identified five distinct production systems: G1, G2, G3, G4, and G5. Social, economic, and environmental indices are calculated and used in the AHP to prioritize sustainability according to the decision-maker’s egalitarian, or hierarchical, or individualist profiles. Results indicate that system G1 features higher priority degree (higher sustainability) for all three profiles compared to other systems assessed, reaching 27% for the egalitarian, 31% for the hierarchical, and 31% for the individualist profiles. The worst performances were fared by system G4 in the egalitarian (12%), and hierarchical (13%), and by system G3 in the individualist profile (10%). Numbers could be considered by decision makers in order to subsidize a strategic planning towards a sustainable regional milk production, whereby a given system could be politically, technologically, and economically prioritized in detriment of another. Notwithstanding, the objective approach discussed in defining criteria and their weights could be useful in future studies related to a hierarchization of sustainability of any production system in different regions.

The Tenth Planetary Boundary: To What Extent Energy Constraints Matter

pp. 399-411 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.12.004

Marco Casazza, Gengyuan Liu, Sergio Ulgiati

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Abstract

This paper introduces the energy constraints as the tenth existing Planetary Boundary (PB hereafter) for defining a safe operating space for humanity on Earth. Energy limitations, in fact, follow all the technical requirements, that are applied to all the existing PBs. After discussing about the specific power both of some planetary components and of some elements of the biosphere, the evolution of human civilization is discussed, considering its additive specific power. This is done in order to show the existing power shift originated by the industrialization and, subsequently, within the Anthropocene. The historical trend of Total Primary Energy Supply (TPES) for human civilization, expressed in terms of power and measured in units of [W], follow within the discussion. Consequently, both a lower preliminary limit (identified with the preindustrial TPES, according to the PB framework), and an upper threshold are identified. The latter is related to the total appropriation of the Net Primary Production (NPP). Finally, the foreseen TPES for the year 2050 is discussed under three different scenarios. Different “quality” goals are defined, according to different existing low-carbon scenarios, which are related to a sufficiency perspective for humanity. Such a transition is of paramount importance since it will enable humanity to remain into a safe operating space within the biosphere. While the paths to reach such an objective go beyond the scope of this paper, it is anyway remarked that both a socio-economic transition and policy efforts are necessary in order to involve the population by means of well-planned bottom-up actions.

The Use of Environmental Accounting to Determine Energy Saving in Mpumalanga Hotels, South Africa

pp. 413-422 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.12.005

F. Machete, C. Hongoro, G. Nhamo, K.F. Mearns

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Abstract

This paper presents an energy characterisation framework that is based on environmental and carbon management accounting principles and practices that promote green growth in societies. Primary data was collected through survey questionnaires, observation checklists, energy account records, light meters and thermometers. In addition, an exploratory literature analysis was done. The collected data was analysed through descriptive and correlation statistics, aimed at testing the theoretically developed energy saving characterisation framework. The paper revealed that the use of one or two energy saving indicators as a base for characterising services and institutions as being energy saving is misleading. Thus, the paper concludes that energy saving characterisation should be based on a confirmed reduction of energy demand, cost and carbon footprint. However, the paper points out that the selection of energy saving technologies and characterisation of activities as energy saving method can be based on the ability of such an activity to reduce one or more of the three indicators. Ultimately, the adopted framework integrates environmental and carbon management accounting principles and practices.

Wastewater Management Policies for Nuclear Power Plants and its Implementation in China

pp. 423-440 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2016.12.006

Xiaowen Ding, Guihong Jiang, Baodeng Hou, Ying Xue

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Abstract

To deal with the global climate change and energy shortage, nuclear power has been widely used all over the world for its low carbon emission and economic cost. Nowadays, hundreds of nuclear power plants have been constructed in many countries. However, the operation of them discharged radioactive effluents and non-radioactive wastewater into nearby water bodies, which makes wastewater management policies for such plants crucial. The objective of this study is to summarize laws, regulations and technical standards of major countries with nuclear power plants, and advance wastewater management of nuclear power plants for China. This article summarized the laws, regulations and technical standards of wastewater management for the plants in major countries with nuclear power plants as well as International Atomic Energy Agency. The management in China, including management process, authorities, public participation as well as emergency system, was also proposed considering that plenty of coastal nuclear power plants had been built, and several inland ones were taken into account. Furthermore, case study was developed for Tianwan nuclear power plant which lied in East Coast of China and had been operated for ten years. The results may provide the managers of nuclear power plants around the world a policy reference and a decision support in the field of wastewater management.

JEAM Volume 5, Issue 1

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Life Cycle Assessment Analysis of the Environment Load from Typical Chinese Steel Enterprises

pp. 1-9 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.03.001

Hongming Na, Chengkang Gao†, Menghui Zhang, Zhaoqian Qi, Zhou Ye

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Abstract

The environmental load of different steelmaking processes at two typical steel production facilities in Jiu Steel was analyzed and evaluated by Life Cycle Assessment. The environment impacts of different steelmaking processes were classified by Environmental impact classification methods offered by the GaBi software, with the addition of characteristic factors; The environment impacts of producing 1 ton steel was quantified. Results shows that the major environmental impacts of Basic Oxygen Furnace steelmaking process are toxicity to aquatic ecosystems, toxicity to humans, depletion of fossil energy, and depletion of mineral resources, with these resulting from processes of coking, sintering, blast furnace iron-making, and waste iron recycling. Climate change, toxicity to humans, toxicity to aquatic ecosystems, and solid waste production make up 30%, 95%, 50%, and 90% respectively of the total environmental impact. The major environmental impacts of Electric Arc Furnace steelmaking process are climate change, acidification, and photochemical ozone formation from molten iron and electric steelmaking processes. A reliable theoretical basis for steelmakers to adjust the two different processes is provided through this work. The research may also contribute to detecting potential for improvement, including for energy saving and for reducing the environmental load of various aspects of the production process. Steelmakers can therefore improve and optimise their production processes.

Emergy Assessment of a Wastewater Treatment Pond System in the Lake Victoria Basin

pp. 11-26 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.03.002

Erik Grönlund1†, Charlotte Billgren2, Karin S. Tonderski3, Phillip O. Raburu4

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Abstract

As part of efforts to reduce the eutrophying load to Lake Victoria, a wastewater treatment system at one of the sugar factories in Kenya was evaluated with the ecosystem ecology method emergy accounting. As a comparison a traditional cost analysis was also performed. The analysis included the local and imported ecosystem services. After preliminary treatment the effluent was discharged into a series of 12 stabilisation ponds. The removal of COD and TSS was high, whereas phosphorus concentrations were reduced by less than 20 %. The monetary costs were dominated by operation and management cost, some of which could probably be reduced by more effective management. The local ecosystem services in emergy terms contributed only 1% (or 1,000 Em$) to the treatment system. Imported ecosystem services in purchased lime contributed more to the treatment system, 22% (or 24,600 Em$). Since the land costs in the area were low, land demanding treatment methods using free local ecosystem services, could be cost effective choices for wastewater management. Ecosystem ecology methods as emergy accountings can guide these choices by revealing the additional contribution of free ecosystem services. Emergy accountings seem to need further clarification regarding differences in micro-/macroeconomic views.

Dynamic tracks of industrial carbon emissions from energy consumption in Guangdong, China

pp. 27-33 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.03.003

Lei Chen, Linyu Xu†

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Abstract

Regional diversity of economic situation and production levels lead to significant differences of regional carbon emissions between cities, gravity center can dynamically and clearly reflect the trajectory changes of regional economic development and carbon emissions. In this paper, gravity center is used to depict the dynamic changes of industrial GDP and indus-trial carbon emissions in Guangdong, China from the past decade. By analyzing the center movements, the industrial centers and carbon center had similar tracks in west direction. Energy consumption by Western Guangdong increased rapidly during the study period, with the gravity center of carbon emissions moving in southwest direction. The method would help to reveal the effects of transfer on industrial carbon emissions, and simulate the further procedures of regional industrial transfer.

River Water Quality and its Relation with Air Quality: A Long-Term Case Study in a Remote and Pristine NW Italian Headwater Catchment

pp. 35-47 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.03.004

Marco Casazza1,†, Franca Maraga2,†, Gengyuan Liu3,4, Massimiliano Lega1, Laura Turconi2, Sergio Ulgiati1,3,4

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Abstract

This paper analyses the water quality characteristics of a remote and pristine basin, the Gallina small catchment, located in the Piemonte Region (NW Italy). In particular, the ion content of river water and precipitation are assessed for two distinct periods (October-December of years 1992 and 2011). These time frames are characterized by a change of air quality management rules for the study area which came into force after year 2000. Furthermore, late Autumn months, which are considered in this study, are characterized by a peak of recorded precipitations in the area under study. Moreover, this is a period of the year where atmospheric emission intensity and distribution are greater with respect to Spring and Summer. The chemical nature of the monitored water body was assessed through the use of Piper diagram. Research found evidence of erosional processes, which chemically altered the water compared to the quality of precipitation. The signature of air chemistry was also evident, through a shift to less sulphate, after the change of air quality regulations introduced in year 2000. The presence of marine ions, in case of major weather perturbations, typical of the late Autumn in the monitored area, was recorded. This fact was particularly evident for the month of November 2011, in association to a major flooding event occurred in the Piemonte Region. The presence of a minor ionic component, associated to rainfall waters, depending upon soil particle resuspension and transport was also detected. Finally, the prevailing origin of the measured ions was defined. The results show the importance of improved management actions, which should be taken in order to further reduce the trans-boundary atmospheric pollution, which constitutes a threat to water quality and a further element of indirect water pollution transfer across different areas.

A System Dynamic Model for Shallow Urban Lake Coupling With the Interference of Chlorine

pp. 49-57 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.03.005

Zhiqiang Yan, Chen Fan, Beicheng Xia†

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Abstract

Ecological models play an important role in lake eutrophication research and management. Many integrated system models have been developed since the 1970s. However, their fixed structure limits flexibility and applicability in urban landscape lakes. An ecosystem dynamic model was constructed to simulate ecological restoration of an urban shallow lake under the interference of chlorine. The model was validated using the monitoring data of an urban lake in Guangzhou. The correlation coefficient (R), root mean squareerror-observations standard deviation ratio (RSR) and index of agreement (IOA) were calculated to evaluate accuracy and reliability of the model and their values for all of the compared variables were significant, less than 0.7, and larger than 0.6, respectively, which reflected good agreement of the model. The results give important insight into understanding eutrophic dynamic process in urban shallow lake. Furthermore, the exhibit model has great applicability in management of urban shallow lakes.

Protozoa and Filamentous Bacteria in the First Biological Monitoring Activity of Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) in La Spezia district (Italy)

pp. 59-70 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.03.006

R.A. Nastro1,†, E. Gambino2

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Abstract

Protozoa and filamentous bacteria identification in Mixed Liquor (ML) allowed to obtain detailed information about the performance of five Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), placed in La Spezia’s District. Microfauna analysis showed the prevalence of testate amoebas (Euglypha spp. prevalent), rotifers and attached ciliate Epistylis plicatis. Low organic load, high sludge-age and high concentration of dissolved oxygen (DO) were well correlated to the growth of Vorticella campanula and Vaginicola sp. Testate amoebas (Euglypha sp. and Arcella sp.) were the most representative group in WWTPs treating also olive mills effluents. Sludge Biotic Index (SBI) showed, for the investigated plants, an optimal to good depuration efficiency (I and II class quality) but it seemed not adequately responsive when olive mills wastewater (rich in phenols) was mixed with the municipal one. Further investigations should be conducted to explain this result. Filamentous bacteria analysis revealed a higher sensitivity of microorganisms to both influent chemical characteristics and WWTPs operational parameters. In most part of the WWTPs, dysfunctions due to the proliferation of filamentous bacteria were detected. In all WWTPs subjected to foaming, the morphotype Nocardia Amarae Like Organisms (NALO), associated with Type 1851 and 0041, was identified as responsible of the foaming. Type 0092 caused a bulking episode in La Spezia WWTP. Haliscomenobacter hydrossis prevailed in the Mixed Liquor (ML) of a plant treating also olive mills wastewater, while Type 0803, 0675 and 1701 were abundant in plants receiving wastewater produced by meat-processing industries. On the whole, filamentous bacteria community analysis represented a more sensitive tool to characterize the activated sludge plant performances in light of providing an adequate management.

Life Cycle Perspective for Urban Energy Use and Carbon Emissions: A Case Study of Xiamen, China

pp. 71-76 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.03.007

Fanxin Meng1, Gengyuan Liu1,2, Zhifeng Yang1,2, Yan Hao1, Yan Zhang1,2, Sergio Ulgiati1,2,3

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Abstract

Low-carbon city is the key to achieving low-carbon future. Carbon emission accounting is the most fundamental step. Carbon emissions from urban energy use are the principal and key bodies of global carbon emissions reduction, which are the most important parts of urban carbon emissions. The goal of this study is to construct a novel hybrid analysis model framework (PEIO), a combination of Process Analysis (PA) and Environmental Input-Output Analysis (EIOA), to access the carbon emissions on urban energy use from life cycle perspective, including the carbon emissions from end-use sector activities, cross-boundary traffic and the embodied energy of key urban materials.

JEAM Volume 5, Issue 2

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Prediction of User Behaviour on the Basis of Key Determinants of Sustainability for Wall Paints Used in Construction with the Help of the Analytic Hierarchy Process

pp. 77-86 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.06.001

Mariia Rochikashvili†, Jan C. Bongaerts

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Abstract

The choice of a product according to criteria, such as price, applicability, quality, environmental safety, health etc. requires knowledge on its properties, e.g. as available in product descriptions, instructions for use, and for some categories of products, such as wall paints, in Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). Professional experts have the abilities to analyse and assess this information, but non-expert users may lack such capabilities. Even so, they reveal their preferences through purchasing decisions. Hence, it is important to develop a research methodology to understand their decision-making. In this paper, such a methodology is developed, based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process and the use of the SuperDecisions software for the case of indoor wall paints. The outcome is a model which can be used for the purpose of analysing and understanding nonexpert users’ behaviour when selecting such an indoor wall paint.

A Study on Mathematical Short-term Modelling of Environmental Pollutant Transport by Sea Currents: The Lagrangian Approach

pp. 87-104 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.06.002

Olga Kordas1,†, Alexandre Gourjii2,†, Eugene Nikiforovich3,†, Dmytro Cherniy4,†

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Abstract

This paper deals with short-term modelling of pollutant transport on the sea surface after environmental accidents. Using the Lagrangian approach, a two-dimensional model of pollutant flow is developed to determine the average velocity field of the flow in the presence of tidal currents and sea surface wind stress for an arbitrarily shaped coastline. This approach assumes that the main transport mechanism is convection. Short-term scenarios are considered, where diffusion effects on pollutant transport can be neglected. The hydrodynamic problem is solved by the method of discrete singularities adapted to fluid advection problems. The problem of environmental pollutant transport by sea currents is reduced to integration of the advection equations to determine the spatio-temporal properties of the spreading pollution. The model was verified through comparison of the results against natural observations on the spread of an oil spill on the sea surface following a collision between the Chinese bulk carrier Fu Shan Hai and the Cyprian container ship Gdynia near the island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea (May 31, 2003). Satisfactory agreement was found between results of a 7-day numerical simulation and observed data. The proposed model can therefore be used for real-time prediction of short-term pollutant transport on a sea surface with an arbitrarily shaped coastline, to support decision-making processes during maritime accidents, in particular oil spills.

Update Methods of the Global National Environmental Accounting Database (NEAD)

pp. 105-116 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.06.003

Jiamin Pan1, Hao Zhang1, Xueqi Wang1, Gengyuan Liu1,2,†

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Abstract

In this paper, we updated the existing emergy analysis framework and calculation methods of The Global National Environmental Accounting Database (NEAD) based on the fast-developed raw global environmental database and the replacements of the nations and regions. Latest GIS grid coverages for renewable flows, the processes of updating raw data necessary for tabular synthesis, and filtrating energy conversion rates and unit emergy values for translating physical flows to emergy units have been updated and standardized. This calculation methods framework incorporates a standardized template within which primary flows are calculated and aggregated into the emergy summary flows and indices. It could be used to formalize data sources, detail line items, calculate energy conversion calculations, and assign Unit Emergy Values (UEVs) to flows and will strengthen the power and credibility of comparative national emergy analysis.

Environmental Profile of Two Soil Remediation Options – A Case Study in Northern Alberta

pp. 117-131 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.06.004

Nana Y. Amponsah1, Junye Wang1,†, Lian Zhao2

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Abstract

Contaminated soil and groundwater are environmental hazards that pose a serious threat to human health. Across Alberta, Albertans are increasingly demanding cleanup of contaminated sites located in or close to their communities. Hydrocarbon spills that often occur during oil and gas operations result in loss of soil quality and contamination of groundwater. This may reduce transport of water and air, inhibit microbial activity, and nutrient cycling. The objective of this paper is to introduce life cycle assessment (LCA) within the existing framework of phased environmental site assessments (ESAs) in the selection of soil remedial alternatives for oil and gas well site clean ups. The ESA-LCA analysis involves processing inputs from the ESA findings to the LCA software (SIMAPRO), identifying the remedial alternatives to compare, running the LCA model using these inputs; and conducting an uncertainty analysis via Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS). A case study comparing two common soil remediation alternatives was presented to demonstrate the improved framework at a well site in Northern Alberta. The LCA results show favorable environmental impact indicators for bioventing over excavation and biopile treatment. This shows the LCA methodology as an excellent tool to compare different remediation options and can be used as a decision- making tool for authorities. An increased focus is recommended in policy discussions on understanding the long term environmental impacts of oil and gas well site remediation options.

What are the Driving Factors of the Landfill Disposal Rate in Italy? A Semi- Parametric Analysis for Policy Implications

pp. 133-144 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.06.005

Massimiliano Agovino1, Mariaconcetta Casaccia2, Maria Ferrara1,†, Antonio Garofalo1

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Abstract

This paper aims to investigate the driving factors of the Landfill Disposal Rate (LDR) on Italian territory and attempts to provide some policy recommendation to reduce it. Hence, we implement a two-step analysis. First, we perform a cluster analysis (CA) to 103 Italian provinces on the LDR driving factors. Second, in the light of the CA results, we implement a semi-parametric estimator in order to identify two components of the LDR distribution: the effects of the coefficients and the effects of the characteristics. The paper documents a considerable heterogeneity among the 103 Italian provinces under consideration. This emphasizes that policy makers cannot consider a unique policy recommendation to reduce landfill. Rather policy interventions must be differentiate according to such a heterogeneity.

Desert Plants Leaf-surface Wax as Eco-friendly Lubricant Additive for an Aluminumon- steel Contact

pp. 145-152 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.06.006

Yanqiu Xia1,†, Shengguang Zhao1,2, Xin Feng1

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Abstract

The friction behavior of leaf-surface wax of two desert plants, Ammopiptanthus mongolicus and Reaumuria soongorica, as additives were evaluated on an aluminum-on-steel system, glycerol and molybdenum-dithiocarbamate (MoDTC) as compaire additive. A Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis system was performed to identify the composition of Ammopiptanthus mongolicus leaf wax. Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS) were employed to explore the friction mechanisms of Ammopiptanthus mongolicus leaf-surface wax. The poly-alpha-olefin (PAO) containing leaf-surface wax showed a better friction reducing and wear resistance properties than that of containing glycerol and MoDTC, respectively. The results show that the leaf-surface wax of desert plants could effectively reduce the friction and wear of aluminum-on-steel sliding pairs compared with the PAO containing MoDTC, and glycerol as additives. Especially, Ammopiptanthus mongolicus showed high performance anti-wear and friction reducing properties. The excellent tribological properties were attributed to the wax composition of leafsurface fatty acid, alcohol, and esters.

Accounting Conservatism and Ownership Structure Effect: A Look at Industrial and Financial Jordanian Listed Companies

pp. 153-169 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.06.007

Amneh Alkurdi, Munther Al-Nimer†, Mohammad Dabaghia

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Abstract

This study aims to examine the impact of ownership structure on the level of accounting conservatism in Jordan by using a sample of 99 manufacturing and financial companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange between 2005 and 2013. On the one hand, ownership structure was measured by: foreign; governmental; institutional; and concentration of ownership. On the other hand, accounting conservatism was measured by accrual-based measures. This study used the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) method was as the multiple regression analysis. It was found that three of the independent variables were significant and one was not. The study’s findings show that there is an inverse effect of governmental ownership on accounting conservatism. In contrast, the study indicates a significant and positive relationship between foreign and institutional ownership with accounting conservatism but the concentration of ownership has no effect on the conservatism. Based on these results, this paper provides some insights for the extant literature in this field and, for interested parties, conveys some conservatism policy implications. In addition, this study opens up opportunities for more in-depth research related to the accounting conservatism.

JEAM Volume 5, Issue 3

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The Interplay among Green Human Resource Practices, Organization Citizenship Behavior for Environment and Sustainable Corporate Performance: Evidence from Jordan

pp. 171-184 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.09.001

Sakher Alnajdawi1, Okechukwu Lawrence Emeagwali2, Hamzah Elrehail3,†

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Abstract

Green environment need green practices, so for that the researchers conduct this study to investigate the Green Human Resources Management (GHRM) practices on Sustainable Corporate Performance (SCP) through mediating role of Organization Citizenship Behavior for Environment (OCBE). The finding of this study reveals that GHRM has a positive impact on SCP through the mediator OCBE in the “Manaseer Group” in Jordan. Moreover, this study has its theoretical contribution by applying this study in Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and enriches literature by new evidences that GHRM could enhance SCP. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach for analysis purpose with 318 questionnaires collected from responder of the study disrupted among “Manaseer Group”.

Analysis of Industrial Correlation Effect of Rare Earth Mining in China: Based on the 2010 Extended Input-output Table of China

pp. 185-199 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.09.002

Chen Yu1,2,†, Yoshiro Higano1, Takeshi Mizunoya1, Jian-Ping Ge2,3, Ya-Lin Lei2,3

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Abstract

Researching the relationship between China's rare earth mining industry and other sectors of the national economy may help to identify the role of the rare earth mining industry to promote the development of other key industries and enable the country to be more targeted in policy making for driving healthy development of the rare earth mining industry chain. This paper studies the relationship between the mining of rare earth and other sectors of the national economy, employing the method of inputoutput analysis based on the 2010 extended input-output table of China. The results demonstrate that the rare earth mining industry has a relatively small demand driving force for most industry sectors of China because the rare earth mining industry is an upstream raw material industry. The rare earth mining industry has a relatively high radiation effect for most industry sectors of China because the rare earth mining and dressing industry has a wide application in downstream industries. The rare earth mining and dressing industry belongs to the low demand driving force and low supply driving force types of industries, which means it has a low emissive power and low binding power. China should change the current export-oriented situation of the rare earth mining industry and focus input more on sectors such as metal mine mining, energy processing, equipment manufacturing, transportation and fuel power supply

An Empirical Study on the Public’s Environmental Protection Behavior and Related Factors

pp. 201-209 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.09.003

Juan Liao1,†, Qing Wang2

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Abstract

Based on the theory of planned behavior, a framework including social demographic factors and individual satisfaction on the environment was constructed. The authors carried out an empirical study on the factors affecting the public’s environment protection behavior using the multiple regression analysis method based on China public environmental protection index survey data in 2008. The results show that: social demographic variables such as age, gender, education level, occupation etc. however the individual's environmental protection awareness and environmental satisfaction actually have significant influence. The environmental protection awareness has positive effect on individual’s environmental protection behavior, while the environmental satisfaction has negative effect on it. According to above results the paper put forward to strengthening the public participation in environmental protection activities.

Integrated Emergy and Economic Performance Assessments of Maize Production in Semiarid Tropics: Comparing Tillage Systems

pp. 211-232 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.09.004

Inacio De Barros†, Edson Patto Pacheco, Hélio Wilson Lemos De Carvalho

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Abstract

Owing to a combination of factors like improved genotypes, closeness to consuming markets, good infrastructure to production outlets and a rainy period that occurs during the off-season, maize production in the Eastern part of the semiarid tropics (SAT) in Brazil is undergoing a shift towards a farming systems with intensive use of chemical inputs, tillage and high yielding genetically-modified (GMO) hybrids. However, the region is highly prone to desertification, and the intensive tillage accelerates the soil degradation process. Although conservation tillage has been reported to improve soil protection and quality and, consequently, sustainability of cereal production in many environments, farmers are still reluctant to adopt it, fearing yield declines as documented in early studies in SAT. Recent findings however, have shown that no-till can be instrumental for improving soil fertility and crop yields also in semiarid environments. The goals of this study are to assess the environmental and economic performances of conservation tillage in SAT and to compare the environmental performance of maize production in SAT and in more favorable environments for agricultural production in South America. Emergy accounting was used for assessing the environmental performance, and classical economic indicators for assessing the economic performances. Indicators for both environmental and economic aspects showed that no-till improves environmental performance, while it reduces costs and increases profits when compared to reduced and conventional tillage systems for maize production in SAT. Although some emergy indicators are slightly poorer in SAT than in the Atlantic Rainforest, the transformity of maize grains allow us to infer that maize production in SAT makes use of environmental resources more efficiently than in the South of Brazil or in the Argentinean Pampas. Further analysis shows that the higher prices obtained for maize grains in the region seem to pay off for the higher climate risks of Brazilian SAT.

Validation of the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) in Ungauged Catchment

pp. 233-242 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.09.005

Lei Chen, Shuang Li, Guobo Wang, Jiajia Xu, Zhenyao Shen†

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Abstract

Measured flow and water quality data play important roles in the application of watershed models, and scarcity data become a key barrier for modeling studies, especially for non-point source pollution simulations. This study focused on the impacts of missing measured data on flow and non-point source pollution simulations by using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool. Both the missing rate and missing location of measured flow and total phosphorus were analyzed and discussed. And the extrapolation of parameters to ungauged catchment was discussed in a typical watershed in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area, China. The results showed that an increasing missing rate would cause worse model performance especially in wet periods. Moreover, the calibrated watershed model could be used in ungauged catchment within an extrapolation idea, but the extrapolation of nonpoint source predictions showed poor perfor-mance. This study also indicated that watershed model could be used for ungauged catchment simulation if similar environments and other hu-man disturbance do not exist. This paper provides new guides for water quality monitoring and the usage of watershed models during ungauged periods.

Legal Regulation of Transboundary Natural Resources

pp. 243-253 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.09.006

Kamilya Zh. Altayeva1,†, Shynggys K. Yergobek2, Nurlaiym K. Mynbatyrova3, Zhanat Zhailau1, Ilyas K. Kuderin4, Gulmira A. Mashimbayeva1

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Abstract

The article examines aspects of the legal characterization and regulation of natural resources’ treatment that are jointly owned or geographically located in two or more states. It is shown that political, social, sociological and economic prerequisites impose on the principles of such cooperation. Until now, the problem of joint management and use of natural resources and products of their processing remains unresolved. The work clearly shows how the regulation of transboundary natural resources takes place, and what should be included in this concept. The novelty of the work is in an aspect that shapes the notion of the availability of natural resources in globalization and cross-border trade. As a legal nature, it is proposed to create interstate commissions, as well as concessions, as the basis for the development of natural resources’ joint use. In this work, the notion of natural resources has been expanded – to those authors include not only minerals in the traditional understanding of natural resources, but also general ecosystems. The leading direction in the development of the situation is interstate cooperation on the biosphere’s conservation.

Evaluating the Revised Water Use Network Model based on Ecological Network Analysis with the Consideration of Environmental Flow

pp. 255-271 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.09.007

Yuan Li1,2, Yuebin Wang1,2, Changqing Lin1,2, Xiaoping Gao3, Reti Hai1,2, Xiaohui Wang1,2,†

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Abstract

Ecological Network Analysis (ENA) is introduced in this paper as a promising approach to study water use systems. A virtual node termed as environment and its virtual pathway flows are constructed to revise water use network model for involving environmental flow in sustainability measure using network structure indicators. To examine revised network model, the results of ENA based on the revised and the unrevised water use network models are compared. Network structure indicators from ENA involving ascendency and Finn Cycling Index (FCI) are calculated here. The Huaihe River Basin in China during 2010 to 2014, which is divided into four sub-basins, is chosen as the case study . In addition, the variation of ascendency due to network model modification is discussed through scenario analysis. Furthermore, the implications of ascendency and FCI in evaluating the importance of environmental flow function from the perspectives of network organization are discussed.

JEAM Volume 5, Issue 4

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An Implementation Assessment of Corporate Environmental Disclosure: An Empirical Study of CAC 40 Listed Companies

pp. 273-284 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.12.001

Ali Ahmadi1,†, Abdelfettah Bouri1

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Abstract

The environmental accounting is an important tool for understanding the role played by the natural environment in the economy. Based on a content analysis approach this paper aims to understand the potential effect of some environmental attributes and financial characteristics on corporate environmental disclosure. Content analyses had been carried out on the 2013-2015 annual reports of the leading French firms Listed on CAC 40. The Research results that indicate that the environmental disclosure is positively associated to environmental attributes such as a low amount of hazardous waste, the voluntary adoption of environmental initiatives. Financial attributes, such as firm size, the need for capital, profitability and capital spending, are positively associated with environmental disclosure quality.

Ecological Restoration Assessment Based on the PSRS Model: A Case Study of Huangshui National Wetland Park

pp. 285-301 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.12.002

Xiaojun Liu1,2, Xufeng Mao1,2,†, Xiaoyan Wei3, Yaqin Tao3, Zhifa Zhang3, Yupeng Chen1,2, Xiaoxia Su1,2, Shuai Zhang1,2

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Abstract

Effectiveness evaluation is a fundamental basis for implementing and managing wetland restoration projects. A case study was conducted in the Huangshui National Wetland Park (HNWP) in Qinghai Province to evaluate the effectiveness of the restoration project there. First, a Pressure-State-Response-Services (PSRS) model system to evaluate effectiveness was created. This consisted of 19 indicators, grouped into four broad categories: Pressure, State, Response and Services. Data for 2012 and 2016 were obtained by field investigation, lab tests, questionnaire surveys, and historical data analysis. Weights of these indicators were determined by implementing the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and consulting experts. The comprehensive health index (CHI) and restoration effectiveness (RE) were developed to allow for time-specific and region-specific evaluations of wetland restoration programme effectiveness. The results show that the restoration project has improved the health status of the HNWP: the park’s overall CHI increased from 0.319 in 2012 to 0.620 in 2016, representing a RE of 0.301. Spatial and temporal variability in the park’s CHI was observed. Spatially, the CHI values of the Haihu Wetland (region A), Xigang Wetland (region B), Huoshaogou Wetland (region C), and Ninghu Wetland (region D) were 0.629, 0.62, 0.576, and 0.581, respectively, suggesting that regions A and B were in good health while regions C and D were in fair health. In the warm season, the CHI of regions A, B, C, and D were 0.702, 0.685, 0.624, and 0.629, respectively, indicating overall good health. In the cold season, their CHI declined to 0.557, 0.555, 0.527, and 0.533, respectively, indicating fair health. A sensitivity analysis reveals that the PSRS model proposed has good applicability and is sensitive to changes in State and Services indicators. The findings of this case study are expected to provide a reference for future wetland restoration and conservation projects in Qinghai.

Methodology for the Accounting Recognition of Negative Environmental Externalities in the Cafeterium Sector Companies of the State of Veracruz

pp. 303-314 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.12.003

Saulo Sinforoso-Martínez1,†, Jerónimo Domingo Ricardez-Jiménez1, Fernando Salazar-Arrieta2

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Abstract

Negative environmental externalities are the impacts caused by organizations to natural resources that lack economic value in the market, such as water, air, etc., authors such as Gray (1992), Tua (1995), Larrinaga (1997), Prugh et al. (1999), Llull (2001), Salas (2015) among others, affirm that they must be incorporated into the cost of the product as a means for sustainable development. Given the interest of the coffee companies of the state of Veracruz to integrate them into their cost of production, a methodology is proposed. The study is carried out applying the Life Cycle of a Product, the Election Experiment Method and Process Costing. The result is that Veracruz coffee companies will be able to identify and classify their negative environmental externalities through the Product Life Cycle, the Election Experiment Method allows them to allocate an economic value and cost per process with the incorporation of a fourth element called "Sustainable Cost" will contribute to its registration and presentation. It is concluded that most of the research has focused on the identification, classification and description of negative environmental externalities and not on methodologies that allow its registration and presentation in the cost of production, which justifies the importance of this study, since for the Veracruz coffee companies have information on externalities that facilitates environmental decisionmaking.

An Explorative Assessment of the Importance of Mediterranean Coralligenous Habitat to Local Economy: The Case of Recreational Diving

pp. 315-325 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.12.004

Giovanni Chimienti1,†, Mavra Stithou2, Ilaria Dalle Mura3, Francesco Mastrototaro1, Gianfranco D’Onghia1, Angelo Tursi1, Carla Izzi3, Simonetta Fraschetti3

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Abstract

There is an increasing recognition of the importance of cultural ecosystem services of marine habitats for supporting the management of the marine environment. However, these services are still largely unknown compared to other ecosystem services (e.g. provisioning services) owing to the challenge of quantifying and valuing them. Linking human welfare to marine ecosystem services can contribute to the sustainable development of marine areas and use of marine resources. Coralligenous bioconstructions represent a key habitat of the Mediterranean continental shelf because of their structural and functional importance, as well as for their high aesthetic value. In this study, we considered SCUBA diving frequentation in the Apulia region (Mediterranean Sea, Italy) and the generated revenue related to the existence of coralligenous habitat. A market impact of €4.7 M in 2014 was estimated through a survey questionnaire distributed to diving centers across the area (about 1000 km of coastline). Despite the assessment underestimates the impact of coralligenous habitat, it highlights the magnitude of importance of this habitat and the opportunities it provides to local economy. The results emphasise also the potential of including economic analysis to increasing awareness among stakeholders, including the general public and decision makers, in setting priorities for conservation and coastal management decisions.

Managerial Attitudes on Environmental Reporting: Evidence from Croatia

pp. 327-341 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.12.005

Dubravka Krivačić1,2, Sandra Janković1,2,†

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Abstract

Environmental responsibility is an important element of business sustainability. It is operationalised through environmental accounting and reporting, which have become inevitable management tools in modern business. International reporting frameworks, legislation, and the requirements of stakeholders, necessitate thinking about environmental information which businesses should report. Decisions on reporting environmental information is associated with managerial attitudes and expectations. The lack of research, especially in European countries, on the importance of environmental reporting for a company’s management, is the reason for conducting this study. Therefore, the main objective of the research was to investigate managerial attitudes regarding the importance of environmental information for companies stakeholders. A survey was used to collect data. The analysis of the distribution of managers’ responses shows that most respondents believe environmental information is part of corporate social responsibility. From the standpoint of the companies it is ethical to collect and report environmental information. Through the factor analysis of managerial attitudes, research indicates variables of the highest importance in the extracted factor: the usefulness of environmental information for different stakeholders, the importance of exploring stakeholders’ interests, and the importance of ensuring the quantity and quality of environmental information. The extracted factor, labelled as “the importance of environmental reporting” was further defined as a dependent variable in a simple linear regression model in which industry and size of the company were defined as independent variables. Research identifies only the industry of the company as positively and significantly related to dependent variable.

Review on Emission Reduction Control Path Based on Modern Project Management Method for Large Integrated Energy Groups in A Carbon Constrained World

pp. 343-356 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.12.006

Shengguang Zhao1,3, Yiqiong Lu2,3,†

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Abstract

Actively participating in the global process on climate change, thoroughly implementing the national outline on climate change, and fully imple-menting clean energy development strategy to control the total amount of carbon emissions and reduce carbon emissions intensity, are the inevi-table requirement of large domestic clean energy enterprise development currently. Aimed at how to carry out related work in a carbon con-strained world, this paper shows systematic analysis of what large inte-grated energy enterprises need to do, how to do, who is going to do, and effective measures to be taken to promote and realize the low carbon development.

Overcoming Electricity Crisis in Pakistan: An Overview of the Renewable Energy Status and Development in Pakistan

pp. 357-383 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2017.12.007

Syed Aziz Ur Rehman1, Yanpeng Cai1,2,†, Mohammad Nafees3, Gordhan Das Walasai4,6, Nayyar Hussain Mirjat5,6, Wajid Rashid1

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Abstract

Pakistan is currently facing energy crisis in the form of electricity and natural gas load shedding due to the insufficient availability of indigenous fossil fuels. On the other hand, the country possesses huge renewable energy resources (RERs) which are merely harnessed due to lack of institutional and governmental support. This paper is designed to discuss the past and current energy demand and supply situation in the country followed by an assessment of the potential for RERs which can be harnessed for meeting energy demand of the country. An extensive literature review is undertaken in this study, focusing therein the potential of RERs in the country covering hydel, solar, wind, biomass and geothermal energy resources. It is revealed from this review that the highest potential out of all RERs exist for solar energy, i.e. 2900 GW followed by wind energy 346 GW, hydropower 100 GW and biomass energy 12.74 GW. Besides, it is observed that the highest number of ongoing potential energy projects pertain to mega hydropower generation. The research concludes that Pakistan needs to invest more and more in hydel energy and keep the pace of research and investment in the solar and wind energy as much as possible so that country indigenously self-sufficient and economically viable for all types of RERs in the long run.

JEAM Volume 6, Issue 1

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The Relationship Between Environment Operational Performance and Environmental Disclosure of Nigerian Listed Companies

pp. 1-15 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.03.001

Magaji Abba, Ridzwana Mohd Said, Amalina Abdullah, Fauziah Mahat

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Abstract

The increase in natural resources consumption by Nigerian companies has raised concern about environmental impact of such activities. Nigerian government and other stakeholders pressured these companies to be environmentally friendly or risk their legitimacy. This obliges the companies resort to environmental disclosure to counter the theat. However, the disclosure is doubted whether it is a true reflection of the performance. This is due to a green-wash problem, where those companies whose legitimacy is threatened present high-level of disclosure to avoid sanctions. Though, voluntary disclosure theory asserts that high-performing companies disclose quality environmental items to achieve favourable selection from the stakeholders. This study examined the relationship between the environment operational performance and environmental disclosure of the companies listed in the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A survey method and content analysis of the companies’ annual reports was used to obtain data on the performance and the disclosure. Where OLS, 2SLS and 3SLS regression analysis showed a significant negative relationship between the environment operational performance and overall environmental disclosure and disclosure level. However, there is no statistical evidence to support the relationship between the performance and disclosure quality. This study contributes to the understanding of the green-wash issue about environmental disclosure by the Nigerian companies. It unveils non-appreciation of quality disclosure by the companies to achieve selection preference. Also, the use of environment operational performance measure provides an alternative approach to the test of the relationships. The limitation of the study is hinged in using cross-sectional data and its small sample size.

The Relationships Between Contextual Variables and Perceived Importance and Bene-fits of Environmental Management Accounting (EMA) Techniques

pp. 17-32 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.03.002

Hatem Mohamed EL-Shishini, Makarand Upadhyaya

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Abstract

Environmental management accounting (EMA) has emerged over last decades because of increasing awareness of the impacts of companies on their environment. There was a limited attention directed to the importance attached to EMA's techniques and the importance of benefits derived from EMA's techniques. Drawing off the contingency theory literature, the current study examined the relationship between the size, intensity of competition, type of industry, cost structure, and the importance attached to EMA's techniques and the importance of benefits derived from these techniques. Data was collected using a sample of 100 accountants in Bahrain. Replies were received from 36 accountants. The results indicated that there were significant relationships between size, type of industry, cost structure, and the importance attached to EMA's techniques. With regards to the benefits derived from EMA's techniques, the results indicated that the type of industry and cost structure was significantly influencing the importance of benefits of EMA's techniques. The study determined many potentials for future research including understanding factors influencing the allocation of environmental costs to products/services, and using other contextual variables to gain a better understanding of EMA in less developing countries.

Analyzing Structure and Driving Force of Steel Consumption in China

pp. 33-45 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.03.003

Chengkang Gao, Hongming Na, Mingyan Tian, Zhou Ye, Zhaoqian Qi

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Abstract

As a big steel producer, China has a large number of steel consumption every year and it is still incredibly increasing now. The fast growth of steel consumption led to excessively production, which caused not only tons of material wastes but also seriously affect on economic and environment. Therefore, finding out and analyzing the driving force of steel consumption is an extremely importance research for reducing resource-consumption and pollutant-emission of steel industry. In this paper, the structure of steel consumption was established at first based on the bottom-up method. Further, the four factors closely related to steel consumption were identified by factor decomposition method. They are in-use stock of steel (Sn), average service life-span (Y), productivity per in-use stock of steel (H) and steel output per unit GDP (T). Next, the driving force of each factor was analyzed by their contribution rate to steel consumption of China. At the same time, the S-shaped model of growth, mathematical model and BP neural network model were used to extract four scenarios to simulate steel consumption. Results show that: (1) construction industry is the main industry of steel consumption, accounting for 50% of the total, and the rest of the industries is relatively low; (2) the driving force Sn of steel consumption gradually decreased while the rest factors (Y, H, T) on steel consumption increased every year within the research time. Especially, after 2009, the impact value of the four factors reached the same level of 25%; and (3) when the growth rate of GDP is keeping on 7%, steel output per unit GDP (T) will reach to 0.1248 t/104 RMB; the average service life-span of in-use stock of steel (Y) will increase to 8.4 years; and steel consumption will reach to 7.7×108 tons and the in-use stock of steel will be efficiently used.

Ecological Interstate Systems as an Object of Legal Research

pp. 47-58 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.03.004

Shynggys K. Yergobek, Saltanat K. Atakhanova, Kamilya Zh. Altayeva, Lyazzat B. Nyssanbekova, Zhuldyz B. Umbetbayeva

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Abstract

The paper shows that the management and regulation of transboundary natural resources is carried out in most states from the point of view of the economic approach. At the same time, the requirements of ecological systems speak about the need to consider natural and territorial complexes as unified mechanisms that cannot be considered separately, but only in combination and in conjunction with each component that make up this ecological system. The authors show that such a perception of ecological systems inevitably leads to the fact that the issue of their safety appears in the framework of cooperation between two or more states. The subject of the study is environmental systems as an element of governance in the framework of supranational and interstate agreements. They are considered as an aggregate of natural resources and biological elements living in a given territory. The novelty of the study is the provision that the management of an ecological system in the territory of two or more states requires the development of not only global standards for the use and protection of ecological systems, but also to determine the feasibility of implementing management and economic cooperation mechanisms for the even development of transboundary ecological systems. Directions for further research are the possibility of organizing supranational regulatory documents that will allow the allocation of shared environmental systems and determine the possibility of the territories’ even development.

Examining the Effect of Emotion to the Online Shopping Stores’ Service Recovery: A Meta-Analysis

pp. 59-70 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.03.005

Huan Minh Nguyen, Hieu Le Minh

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Abstract

Based on attachment theory, this study aims to highlight the potential impact of customer’s emotional attachment in the context of online stores’ service recovery. Analyses of the data onto China, the findings indicate that once consumers have the emotional bond with a brand, the effect is much stronger than trust and service recovery fairness. It provides an insight to that online marketer should focus on the emotional attachment building and draw up the marketing strategy based on the connection, affection, passion, to create mutual memories for establishing the bond of emotion between online shopping stores and consumers.

A Risk-averse Two-Stage Stochastic Optimization Model for Water Resources Alloca-tion under Uncertainty

pp. 71-82 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.03.006

Ye Xu, Sha Li, Feng Liu, Jinping Qian, Yanpeng Cai, Guanhui Cheng

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Abstract

The water resource shortage has caused intense contradictions among various water users; moreover, unfair and irrational water allocation may result in the economic loss, even the social instability. A risk-averse twostage stochastic programming model (RATSP) are developed for tackling this issue. The significant contribution made by the RATSP model is that it concerns the importance of the financial risk under each scenario, where the risk is expressed as the probability of occurrence in that benefit generated under each scenario is lower than predefined target profit. It can avoid possible suboptimal solutions caused by only considering the maximization of the expected value for all scenarios as an objective function. Moreover, the risk measure is incorporated into the objective function, leading a variety of solutions under various weight coefficients and target levels, which is suitable in analyzing the trade-off between the system economy and reliability. A case of water resources management system is used to reflect the applicability and feasibility of this model. The obtained results demonstrate that the RATSP model can help decision makers gain in-depth insights into potential system risk, analyze the trade-off between system economy and stability, generate the stable water allocation schemes, and avoid the contradictions among users.

Disclosure of Environmental Matters – Galp Energy

pp. 83-94 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.03.007

Graça Azevedo, Jonas Oliveira, Andreia Castro

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Abstract

There is a growing number of companies expressing social concerns where environmental worries are also included. Even before legal obligation of environmental disclosures, companies already used to adopt an active stance to safeguard their reputation. However, risk events may have negative impacts on companies’ legitimacy, making it necessary to implement strategies to repair/recover the damaged reputation. This study analyses the annual reports from 2001 to 2011 of the largest Por-tuguese oil company - Galp Energia - in the view of the occurrence of negative events, which, consequently, may have affected the company's reputation. Empirically, legitimacy theory can explain the implementation of strategies to repair reputation. Within this context, most of the existing research is based on common-law countries, with little literature grounded on code-law countries, such as Portugal. Findings have shown that Galp Energia has great concerns about the external perception of society. The company acts immediately after risk events, implementing strategies to minimise the risk impact, especially through the use of corrective actions.

JEAM Volume 6, Issue 2

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Does CEO Duality and Family Ownership Concentration Hinder the Effectiveness of the Corporate Board of Directors in Jordanian Service Firms?

pp. 95-104 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.06.001

Khaldoon Ahmad Al Daoud, Dea'a Al-Deen Omar Al-Sraheen, Mahmoud Mohmad Aleqab

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Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of CEO duality and family ownership concentration on the effectiveness of the board of directors in a sample of Jordanian services ﬁrms. This study used a sample of 67 services ﬁrms listed on the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE) over the four years from 2013 to 2016 (N = 268 ﬁrms). A composite proxy for board effectiveness ranging from 0 to 3 using board size, board independence and the frequency of board meeting was utilized. The results indicate that the combined role of CEO and the chairman of the board and a high level of family ownership concentration weakens board effectiveness, which, in turn, hinders the monitoring function of corporate boards. This study contributes to the current literature related to the corporate governance structurein emerging capital markets like Jordanin proposing a model that may ensure the effective monitoring function of corporate boards.

Environmental Strategy, Environmental Management Accounting and Organizational Performance: Evidence from The United Arab Emirates Market

pp. 105-114 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.06.002

Hamzah Al-Mawali, Ahmed Al Sharif, Ghaleb Abu Rumman, Faten Kerzan

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Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the association between the Environmental Strategy (ES) and Environmental Management Accounting (EMA) usage. It also aims to consider the effect of EMA usage on the organizational performance. A research framework was developed based on the contingency theory. Data were collected via questionnaires distributed to companies listed on UAE Stock Markets (ADX and DFM) in 2016. Data were analyzed using a structural equation modelling. The model was statistically validated and evaluated. The results indicated that ES positively affects the level of EMA usage and a positive relationship between EMA and the organizational performance. These ﬁndings contribute to the management accounting contingency-based research by providing empirical evidence to support that relationship between ES and EMA as well as between EMA and the organizational performance in the context of developing countries.

The Threshold Effect of Two-way FDI on Environmental Pollution Under Environmental Regulation

pp. 115-124 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.06.003

Kaijun Yang, Chan Wang,Yuanyuan Wen, Xianqiang Mao

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Abstract

Based on the data of 11 provincesor cities in the Yangtze River Economic Zone from the year of 2006 to 2015,through constructing the panel threshold model, this paper analyzed the threshold effect of the two-way FDI on the upgrading of industrial structure and environment on different levels of environmental regulation. The results show that two-way FDI can effectively reduce environmental pollution, while the emission reduction effects are signiﬁcantly different under different environmental regulations, too loose or too strict environmental constraints would inhibit the technical spillover effect of IFDI and the reversely technological spillover effect of OFDI, thus the environmental improvement effect cannot be fully played. Insummary, only with appropriate environmental regulations,twoway FDI can promote the upgrading of the overall industrial structure of the Yangtze River economic belt, maximizeits emission reduction effect at the same time, thus achieve the dual goals of economic development and environmental protectionin the Yangtze River Economic Zone.

Environmental Impact Assessment of An Urban Port: Noise Pollution Survey in the Port Area of Napoli (S Italy)

pp. 125-133 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.06.004

Marco Casazza, Francesca Boggia, Gianmarco Serafino, Vincenzo Severino, Massimiliano Lega

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Abstract

The quality of life, particularly in the urban environment, becomes degraded, due to a cumulative effect of multiple exposition to pollutants. A special case is represented by urban ports, due to the fact that multiple impacts are superimposed. Moreover, being the port connected to the surrounding urban context,the potential negative impacts are magniﬁed by the high number of exposed citizens in the close vicinity. This is why appropriate monitoring actions constitute the basis to deﬁne strategic planning options toward a more livable environment in of port cities. Considering the speciﬁc case of noise pollution, due to the cost of monitoring tools, it is important to develop scientiﬁcally-sound methodological options to perform preliminary surveys, using available low-cost technologies. This choice has the purpose of minimizing the costs of monitoring, while maximizing its effectiveness. Considering the speciﬁc case study of the port area of Napoli (SItaly), this work refers to the use of a freeware, which can bedown loaded and installed in a smartphone, with the purpose of performing geo-localized noise pollution surveys. In particular, after deﬁning the qualityof collecteddata througha preliminary laboratory inter-calibration, a series of ﬁeld surveys were performed in 12 different points and measures were analyzed. Sound Pressure Level measures, which were found to be of higher quality, allowed to deﬁne two areas having different noise characteristics. Consequently, these areas could be disentangled in future monitoring operations, reducing the points of measure from 12 to 2. The obtained results suggest an option, which could be applied to other environmental parameters. Moreover, the quality of surveys could be further implemented through the use of aerial platforms, in order to obtain future 3D enhanced environmental scenarios assessment.

Water Use Management in the Mining Industry: A Comparison Based on Company Size

pp. 135-147 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.06.005

Roberto S. Bichueti, Clandia M. Gomes, Jordana M. Kneipp, Francies D. Motke, Ana P. Perlin, Isak Kruglianskas

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Abstract

Mining has great economic importance and it is crucial for the development of several industries. However, it is an essentially extractive activity and has an intense relationship with the environment. One of the challenges to be faced in this industry is proper water use management. The mining industry in Brazil is among the largest users of water, and it has many speciﬁc aspects. Those involved in mining activities range from large enterprises to small miners that exploitsmall mines with poor environmental controls. Given the proﬁle diversity of these enterprises, this study seeks to identify the association between company size and water use management in the Brazilian mining industry. A descriptive, quantitative research was conducted by means of a survey with 50 mining enterprises. With a view to identify business practices in water use management, the model proposed by Ceres (2010) was used. It considers ﬁve dimensions of analysis: (1) water accountability, (2) risk assessment, (3) direct operations, (4) supply chain, and (5) stake-holder engagement. It was found that the main practices adopted by the miningsector for water use managementare the evaluation and understanding of the risks and practices at the operational level in order to decrease water footprint. However, the dimensions of water use management are signiﬁcantly impacted by company size. In thissense, it is evident that water use management practices,inmostcases, are more incipient in smaller companies, compared with large companies, which adopt more efﬁcient practices. It was also evident that greater integration is needed betweenen terprises and their stake holders and the supply chain, through integrated and collaborative management to improve water use management outcomes. Thus,water use management poses a challenge to the industry,giventhat,in most cases,it is made up of small enterprises.

Survey on Integrating of Renewable Energy into the Mining Industry

pp. 149-165 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.06.006

Kateryna Zharan, Jan C. Bongaerts

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Abstract

Mining operations are energy intensive. The share of energy costs in total share is often reported to be in the range of 30-35%. Saving energy costs is therefore an economical key element of any mine operator. With the improving reliability and security of renewable energy sources, and the requirements to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, perspectives for using RE in mining operations emerge. In fact,these aspects are stimulating the mining companies to search for ways to substitute fossil energy with RE. Survey researchis novelon thistopic. Hereby,this paper estimates the data of a survey conducted among mining and renewable energy experts. Towards the data estimation, this study applies the following methods. Here, ﬁrst, to develop the survey we summarized and reviewed the ﬁndings from the previous literature reviews using the Systematic Literature Review. Thus, the survey was developed to gather the expert’s knowledge and opinions on incentives for mining operators to turn to RE, barriers and challenges to be expected, environmentaleffects, appropriate business models andthe overall impact of RE on mining operations. Secondly, to analyze outcomes of the survey the frequency evaluation has been developed and applied. Thirdly, using the Null Hypothesis and Alternative Hypothesis methods three hypotheseshave been developed. Finally, the outcomes of the survey allow for identifying the factors that favor and disfavor decision-makingon the use of RE in mining operations.

Treatment of Highly Polluted Industrial Wastewater Utilizing Clean and Low Cost Technologies: Review Article

pp. 167-184 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.06.007

Ibrahim Abdelfattah

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Abstract

A comprehensive review article dealing with clean and low cost technologies for treatment of highly polluted industrial wastewater will be detailed. These technologies covering: the biological processes including anaerobic methods with high production of biogas and lower production of sludge, aerobic methods will be excluded due to the higher sludge production and the added cost of aeration. Biosorption and adsorption processes including different clays and plant wastes will be included due to economic reasons and sustainability factors. Furthermore, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) which are utilized in case of the higher ranges of toxic efﬂuents as a cost effective technologies will be discussed. Solar processes which utilize the nature UV-source will be also involved. The review article is supported with casestudies for relieving thenoxious effects of waste waters before discharging it into the surrounding environment. A valuable recommendations are presented to ﬁnalizing the review article drawing the best planningto getrid of the hazardous effects of the industrial efﬂuents.

JEAM Volume 6, Issue 3

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Impact of Climate Change Disclosure on Financial Performance: An Analysis of Indian Firms

pp. 185-197 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.09.001

Praveen Kumar, Mohammad Firoz

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Abstract

This paper investigated the relationship between the climate change disclosure and the ﬁrms’ ﬁnancial performancein the Indian context. The climate change disclosure scores assigned by the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) survey to 44 participating Indian ﬁrms during 2011 to 2015 is being used to determine the extent of climate change disclosure. Further, Return on Equity (ROE) and Return on Assets (ROA) are being used to proxy the sample ﬁrms’ ﬁnancial performance. After controlling for industry- and ﬁrm-speciﬁc variables, we observed that the ROE will be higher for companies having higher environmental disclosure scores comparatively the companies having low environmental disclosure scores. Moreover, the results of the regression analysis revealed that the market perceives the voluntary climate change disclosure as a positive corporate initiative, leading to signiﬁcant positive regression coefﬁcient. However, this study did not ﬁnd any evidence to supports that the climate change disclosure affects ROA. These ﬁndings are crucial for managers and the investors to assess the economic consequences of voluntary environmental disclosures by the ﬁrms operating in emerging economies.

Estimates of The Effectiveness for Urban Energy Conservation and Carbon Abatement Policies: The Case of Beijing City, China

pp. 199-214 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.09.002

Junmei Hu, Gengyuan Liu, Fanxin Meng

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Abstract

Cities play an important role in tackling climate change, as they consume closeto 2/3 of the world’s energy and account for more than 70% of global green house gase missions. To assess the effectiveness of urban energy conservation and carbon mitigation measures, a detailed Long Range Energy Alternatives Planning (LEAP) model is developed and applied to simulate a series of emission reduction measures. The developed LEAP model is also aimed at analyzing how these emission reduction measures change energy consumption and carbon emission from 2016 to 2050. Fifty scenarios were deﬁned to describe the future energy strategies in relation to the development of Beijing city, including a ‘Business as Usual’ scenario, 42 sub-scenarios, 4 sectoral compound scenarios and 3 system compound emission reduction scenarios. The ‘Business as Usual’ scenario assumes that the government will do nothing to inﬂuence the long-term trends of urban energy demand. The 42 sub-scenarios reﬂect the effectiveness of singular measure including clean energy substitution, terminal technological innovation, industrial structural adjustment in three energy demand sector as well as external input of power scenario in transformation sector. Each singular measure has three A, B, C three levels, which represent different intensity of the measure. Sectoral compound scenarios show the integrated effectiveness of B-level measures which reﬂects the strength of the existingpolicy in each sector. The ﬁnal effectiveness of all energy conservation and carbon mitigation measures of assorted level are presented in 3 system compound emission reduction scenarios. A further analysis of decoupling relationship between energy consumption and economy under system compound scenarios is discussed.

The Evaluation of Forest Cultural Value Based on WTP: A Case Study in Diebu County of Gansu Province in China

pp. 215-224 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.09.003

Ying Zhang, Xiaohong Zhou

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Abstract

Cultural value is regarded as an important component of forest ecosystem services, which has been received great attention to a certain extentfor the relevant research in recent years. In this study, taking Diebu County of Gansu Province in China as an example, the impact factors of Willingness to Pay (WTP) of forest cultural value is analyzed by adopting Logistic Regression Model(LRM) and Contingent Valuation Method (CVM), and the value of forest culture in Diebu County is estimated. The result shows that WTP of forest cultural value in Diebu County is rather low, the percentage of people who are willing to pay only accounts for 35.29% of total survey population. Impact factors of WTP for cultural value mainly contain the education level, professional knowledge, personal income and so on, among which the impact of educational level for WTP is least, and the personal annual income is largest. In addition, the personal annual income is also the most prominent impact factor for not willing to pay for forest cultural value. Mean WTP per capita for forest cultural value of Diebu County is at the range between 18.96 RMB/a and 53.81 RMB/a. The results are calculated according to the population and number of the travelers in 2016. With thee valuation, forest cultural value of Diebu County is about between 8.2741 million RMB and 23.4390 million RMB in that year. The discussion is also raised according to relevant results in the research.

Audit Judgment Performance: The Effect of Performance Incentives, Obedience Pressures and Ethical Perceptions

pp. 225-234 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.09.004

Trinandari P. Nugrahani, Adi Susilo Jahja

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Abstract

This study aims to analyze the inﬂuence of performance incentives, obedience pressures and ethical perceptions to audit judgment in auditors’ professional activities. Data collection was conducted by distributing questionnaires to auditors from public accounting ﬁrms in Indonesia. The result showed that the performance incentives increase the performance of audit judgment. The obedience pressures of auditors profoundly inﬂuenced the performance of audit judgment performance of auditors where as the ethical perception has no effect on audit judgment. This study suggests that auditors should pay attention to auditing standards and professional codes of ethics,encourage auditors to be ableto overcomethe pressures and behave by the professional ethical standards. Therefore audit ﬁrms should provide performance incentives. Finally, the study shows that the Institute of Public Account ants Indonesia(IAPI) is expected to always conduct continuous professional education(PPL) for the audit profession in order to implement the auditstandards and professional code of ethics.

A Simulation Approach to Understanding The Effect of Mimicry on Prey’s Flourishing When Predators Decline Due to Environmental Disturbance

pp. 235-247 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.09.005

Hongchun Qu, Kaidi Zou, Dandan Zhong, Li Yin, Xiaoming Tang

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Abstract

Ecological interactions and their consequences to system evolution in the context of environmental disturbance are of special concern in ecological conservation since the environmental conditions have been changing so quickly in the past decades. Understanding how these interactions, particularly the indirect ones such as mimicry, could change prey variabilities in facing of predator loss is an interesting question. In this research, we incorporated Batesian mimicry into a three-species predator prey system to investigate the role of mimicry on regulating prey abundance when the system is suffering predator loss in various patterns. The Netlogo mimicry model was adopted to run the simulation experiments. We found that the timing of predator loss interacting with mimic rycaninduce signiﬁcant difference in mimic prey’s abundance if partial predators were removed from the system. However, the variations of frequency of predator loss did not change the mimic prey’s abundance in all conditions. Our ﬁndings suggested that indirect interactions can change the ﬁnal species compositionon the long term volutionary scale if environmental disturbances occur in the particular time window. This is the ﬁrst report that addresses the question of how indirect interactions such as mimicry affects species abundance when environmental disturbance occurred. We expect that this ﬁnding could shed the light on conditions under which species and ecological balance can be better managed when environmental disturbances are inevitable to come.

Emergy-Based Provincial Sustainability Dynamic Comparison in China

pp. 249-261 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.09.006

Longzhun Lin, Gengyuan Liu, Xueqi Wang, Chen Wang, Chang Liu, Marco Casazza

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Abstract

In this paper,we account the emergy of 29 provinces in China in 2012 (excluding Tibet,Taiwan,HongKong,and Macao due to lack of data) based on the application of the NEAD accounting framework at the provincial level. Based on the emergy-related data of 29 provinces in 2007, the emergy indicatorsof 2007 and 2012 are compared and analyzed. This study selected ESR, ED, EIR, and ESI, which can comprehensively represent the indicators of aprovince’s economic,social,environmental,and sustainable development. At the same time, we also use Pearson correlation to analyze the correlation between the four indicators and the three most primitive economic and social indicators (AREA, POPULATION, GDP) to derive the internal driving factors of the province. Comparing the correlation coefﬁcient in two years can lead to changes in the internal driving factors of the province. We draw the following conclusions: (1) From 2007 to 2012, the resources development in the western regionis remarkable,and the central and eastern regions have made some efforts on sustainable developmenton the basis of the better economic development. However,there is still a long way to go before the economic and environmental conﬂicts are resolved. There is still a lot of effort to reach the level of comprehensive sustainable development. (2) The larger the area, the stronger the sustainable development capability, and from 2007 to 2012, this trend has weakened. The greater the GDP, the weaker the capacity for sustainable development, but from 2007 to 2012, this trend has weakened. There is no obvious correlation between population and economy, society and sustainable development.

Optimization of the Gram Staining Method Based on Superparamagnetic Magnetic Nanobeads

pp. 263-271 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.09.007

Yuren Feng, Zihe Ren, Fuhua Wu, Annika Reichert, Yun Lu

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Abstract

Gram staining is a widely used method for bacterial identiﬁcation, where an alcohol burner is used as the ﬁxed step, which requires a high level of proﬁciency, while the open ﬂame is a potential ﬁre hazard. A rapid, convenientand alternative method is also available that does not require a microscopeor alcohol burner. This method utilizes the adsorption capacity of magnetic nanobeads. Ferriferous oxide beads are made by means of the co-precipitation method and adsorb bacteria in suspension liquid after being coated on the surface. The staining process omits the “heat” step and the need for a microscope, and distinguishes bacteria through the observation of the color of the liquid. According to our results, the behavior of this magnetic material performs well with various types of microbes. In particular,the coloris clear andis easily distinguishable.

Modeling of a Small Scale Wind Turbine for Water Pumping Process: Case Study

pp. 273-289 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.09.008

Ahmed Boubenia, Ahmed Hafaifa, Mouloud Guemana, Abdellah Kouzou, Mohamed Becherif

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Abstract

This paper deals with the study of a small scale wind turbine implementation for agricultural isolated location. Indeed, the electriﬁcation of these locations for industrial and agricultural requirements remains one of the largest current projects, especially when dealing with the use of sustainable sources such as solar, hydro and wind power. The main aim of this work is to validate the feasibility of using wind turbine in this location and to evaluate the performance of the excess energy storage capacity, which in thiscase is stored as water underthe potential energy form. The study represented in this paper has been performed under the case of pumping water station using wind turbine in an isolated location at the north of Algeria, considering that this site fulﬁlls the requirement of afavorable wind potential and a permanent water source. The design of the used wind turbine is based on the constraints of the climate data of the selected location and the lower cost of the implementation means, whereas, the water tank dimensions are is optimized with respect to the daily water consumption data and the available excess of energy to be stored and to be used later for water pumping during the period of wind absence.

JEAM Volume 6, Issue 4

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Environmental Quality and Management

pp. 291-294 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.12.001

Pier Paolo Franzese, Giulia Maisto, Anna De Marco, Carmen Arena, Elvira Buonocore

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Abstract

This volume gathers theoretical, methodological, and applied papers exploring different issues related to environmental quality and management. Human economy depends on healthy ecosystems capable of ensuring a life support system delivering ecosystem services vital for human well-being. Integrated environmental assessment and environmental accounting are essential research areas to assess the quality of environmental matrices while supporting managers and policy makers with scientiﬁcally sound information.

Light Fertilization Affects Growth and Photosynthesis in Mung Bean (Vigna radiata) Plants

pp. 295-304 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.12.002

Chiara Amitrano, Ermenegilda Vitale, Veronica De Micco, Carmen Arena

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Abstract

In a climate change scenario, the optimization of growth conditions for food crop species plays a key role for the sustainability of cultivation. Agrotechnologies need to be improved to set up the best conditions to maximize plant development, production and resource use efﬁciency in growth chambers and greenhouses. The manipulation of light quality during plant growth may be used as a powerful mean to obtain speciﬁc functional traits. This practice may be useful to improve plant growth, also avoiding the use of large doses of chemical fertilizers, which may compromise the environment and human health. In our study, we analyzed speciﬁc physiological traits of mung bean (Vigna radiata) seed-lings grown at different light quality regimes (W-White, R-Red and RB-Red-Blue light), to assess the best light treatment in promoting plant development and photosynthesis. Plant growth was monitored measuring stem and root elongation, dry biomass and total leaf area. The integrity of the photosynthetic machinery was monitored through ﬂuorescence an emission measurements and content of photosynthetic pigments and total proteins. Our results showed that the growth under R wavelengths promoted stem elongation compared to W and RB. This light treatment was also responsible for the highest production of total chlorophylls. Photochemistry was not affected by the different light qualities. RB light induced a compact architecture of plants and the highest amount of proteins. Overall results indicate that different light quality regimes can be applied during the cultivation to consciously modify plant growth and development. Thus, it will be fundamental to optimize and choose opportunely not only the intensity but also the spectral composition of light to maximize the productivity of a speciﬁc crop in quantitative and qualitative terms.

Capture Rate of Selected Heavy Metals In Q. Ilex L. Leaves Collected At Two Sites With Different Land Uses

pp. 305-311 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.12.003

F. Esposito, V. Memoli, S.C. Panico, A. De Marco, G. Maisto

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Abstract

Anthropization causes an increase of pollutants in the atmosphere that, in turn, leads to a decline of air quality. Leaves from selected tree species are useful tools to evaluate air quality as they intercept air deposition and accumulate, through stomata, pollutants in gaseous form or in ﬁne particulate. However, leaf morphology and biochemical characteristics may be negatively affected by air pollution. The aims of the study were: i) to evaluate the concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni and Pb in leaves and deposit on them in specimens of Q. ilex L., widely used as biomonitor; ii) to estimate the relationships between metal accumulation and morphologicalleaf traits (length, width, petiole length, leaf area) in two municipalities: Pomigliano (ME) and Naples (UE), respectively, characterized by mixed (urban and industrial) and urban environments. At both site typologies, the investigated metals, with the exception of Cd, were accumulated in leaf deposits, as their concentrations were higher in unwashed than washed. The comparison of the metal concentrations in deposits on leaves collected at the two site typologies highlighted that for Pb values were statistically different with concentrations higher at ME. Instead, the leaves widely differed for metal composition, with statistically higher values of Cd at UE. All the metal concentrations exceeded the chemical ﬁngerprint, in particular Pb and Cd respectively in mixed and urban environments. Besides, the metal capture rate, an estimation of the adsorbed or captured heavy metals on the leaf surface respect to the total concentration, showed statistically lower values for Cu and Ni in leaves collected at ME, suggesting the consistent presence of ﬁne particulate. Finally, metal accumulation in leaves collected at ME was linked to leaf morphology as leaf traits showed values lower than in leaves collected at UE.

Impact of Biochar Amendment on Soil Quality and Crop Yield in a Greenhouse Environment

pp. 313-324 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.12.004

Rossana Marzaioli, Elio Coppola, Paola Iovieno, Alfonso Pentangelo, Catello Pane, Flora Angela Rutigliano

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Abstract

Greenhouse agriculture, a widespread practice in the Mediterranean basin, is prone to impoverishment in soil organic carbon because of crop removal and high decomposition rate. Open-ﬁeld experimentation has shown that the addition of biochar, a product of thermochemical conversion of biomass, under a limited concentration of oxygen, increases the soil organic C pool, enhances crop productivity and improves C terrestrial sink. The present study investigates the effect of biochar amendment in a greenhouse environment in a Southern Italy organic farm. Two doses (10 or 20 t ha −1) of biochar from conifer pruning wastes were applied immediately before planting 1-week old plants of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). Plant growth and crop yield were evaluated six months later, at the end of cultivation, in biochar-treated and in control (without biochar) plots. Soil samples were collected in the same plots immediately after biochar addition and six months later and were analyzed for the following parameters: bulk density, water-holding capacity, pH, electrical conductivity,organic carbon,mineral nitrogen, total microbial biomass and fungal mycelium contents, soil respiration, nitrogen mineralization, potential nitriﬁcation, soil suppressiveness to Rhizoctonia solani. A single biochar application caused no apparent damage to the crop; on the other hand, no improvement was observed in crop yield or soil suppressiveness to R. solani. In contrast, the single char application positively affected soil respiration, nitrogen mineralization and potential nitriﬁcation. These preliminary results suggest that soil amendment with biochar is a potentially useful practice in greenhouse agriculture, yet further experimentationis necessary to assess optimal amounts for better crop productivity and soil quality.

Regional Redistribution Effects of Renewable Energy Subsidies

pp. 325-333 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.12.005

Alessandro Sapio1

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Abstract

Through a theoretical model of subsidies for renewable energy (RE), the paper shows that regions characterised by high energy demand and low RE endowments contribute disproportionately to the green energy budget. Such a pattern is emphasised if subsidies are tied to wholesale electricity prices, because the merit order effect associated with renewables, by depressing the electricity price, justiﬁes higher subsidies to RE generators. Due to a pecuniary externality, interconnection between regions allows the region with a lower income and richer RE production to partly shift the burden of RE support on the other region. These spatial patterns can be overturnedif RE ownership is distributed across zones, and under some parameter sets in which market integration implies a heavier unit burden of RE support.

Phytotoxic Extracts as Possible Additive in Subsurface Irrigation Drip for Organic Agriculture

pp. 335-343 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.12.006

V. Romanucci, A. Ladhari, G. De Tommaso, A. De Marco, C. Di Marino, G. Di Fabio, A. Zarrelli

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Abstract

The subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) system is a micro-irrigation technique applied below the soil surface through drip lines buried at a depth depending on the characteristics of the soil and on the plants to be irrigated. SDI distributes precise amounts of water directly to the root area, with the possibility of leaving the soil surface dry and less subject to weeds. This system reduces the use of water, herbicides, and environmental pollution. Furthermore, SDI allows the use of urban wastewater, advantageous from the environmentalpoint of view since it reduces the consumption of ground water and energy costs required for its pumping. In addition, it reduces the use of chemical fertilizers through the enhancement of organic fertilizer content in the waste. However, there are issues related to the use of SDI systems, such as the elimination or reduction of roots that wrap the dripper thus blocking the water ﬂow. It has been hypothesized that it would be useful to add a pure or blended phytotoxic mixture to plastic during the production of drippers, whose herbicidal action dissolves gradually with the passage of water. Five species of plants have been selected in this study: Vetch villosa, Brassica juncea, Secale cereale, Juncus effusus, and Vallisneria natans. The phytotoxicity has been tested in vivo on Lactuca sativa, Lycopersicon esculentum, and Allium cepa. The plants showed the same behavior but the aerial biomass of V. natans resulted the most active ones. The phytotoxicity of the hydroalcoholic extract of each plant was evaluated on the same test organisms, with peak inhibitions up to 60, 70, and 80% at concentrations ranging from 10−4 to 10−7 M. In general, the most active hydroalcoholic infusion was that of V. villosa. Finally, after some chromatographic steps and LC/GC-MS analyses, the most abundant metabolites of the hydroalcoholic extracts were identiﬁed.

Ecotoxicological Assessment of Virgin Plastic Pellet Leachates in Freshwater Matrices

pp. 345-353 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.12.007

S. Schiavo, M. Oliviero, V. Romano, S. Dumontet, S. Manzo

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Abstract

The environmental contamination caused by the widespread diffusion of plastic material all over the world is a topic of high concern. Virgin plastic pellets of different polymers are often used in particle toxicity studies as reference materials. In this study we exposed organisms of different trophic levels, spanning form prokaryotes to eukaryotes, to leachate of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE), and polystyrene (PS) pellets in acute and chronic ecotoxicological tests. A toxicity test battery integrated index (TBI) was used to rank the relative toxicity of studied polymers and to deﬁne their possible ecotoxicological risk in freshwater environment. Daphnia magna showed the highest susceptibility in the chronic exposure tests (around 50% of effect) while Aliivibrio ﬁscheri (around 25 % of effect) in the acute one. No relevant toxic effects were observed on Sorghum saccharatum, Lepidium sativum and Sinapis alba seeds, while signiﬁcant toxicity for Vicia faba along 21 days of exposure was reported. TBI allowed us to rank the toxicity risk associated to the studied materials as follows: PP>PS>PE. PP toxicity could be related to the presence of solvents (methanol, oil, cyclohexane) employed for its production, whereas PS toxicity was probably due to the depolymerization, occurring in water, followed by styrene release, while the mild toxic effects of PE and its temporary bio stimulation could be attributable to the thermoregulatory additives present in the polyethylene resins. Our results highlighted that also the virgin plastic pellets could be responsible of toxic effects that should not be neglected.

Uptake of Micro and Macronutrients in Relation to Increasing Mn Concentrations in Cistus salvifolius L. Grown in Hydroponic Cultures

pp. 355-363 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.12.008

F. Figlioli, V. Memoli, G. Maisto, V. Spagnuolo, S. Giordano, E. O. Leidi, S. Rossini Oliva

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Abstract

Mining and smelting activities can alter the ecosystem degrading vegetation and landscape, causing loss of soil fertility and changes in hydrology and microclimate. The mining area of Rio Tinto is one of the largest metallic sulﬁde deposits in the world, extending to southern Portugal and the Rio Tinto region (Huelva, SW Spain). Soils, characterized by low pH, are strongly impoverished in macro- and micronutrients essential to the plant metabolism and contain very high concentrations of As, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Pb. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of increasing Mn concentrations (0, 50, 100, 200, and 300 mg /L) on the uptake of a set of micro and macro nutrients in Cistus salvifolius L., a species native of the Rio Tinto region. The plants, grown in hydroponic culture, were analyzed by AAS for elemental content and by SEM-XS ray microanalysis for element localization. The results of this study showed a stunted growth and ultrastructural alterations in the root of C. salvifolius, with the most evident damages occurring at the highest Mn concentration. Chemical analyses conﬁrm that the higher the concentration in culture medium, the higher the uptake of Mn in plant tissue; both lower and higher Mn concentrations inﬂuence the absorption of other essential nutrients, as Fe, Zn, K, and Mg. The visible state of stress observed in plants grown with addition of 300 ppm Mn may therefore be due to such variations in the absorption of micronutrientsand/or to the Mn itself. Future studies should focus on possible synergistic and antagonistic activities of Mn versus other essential elements for proper plant development.

Spatial Analyses of An Integrated Landscape-seascape Territorial System: The Case of The Overcrowded Gulf of Naples, Southern Italy

pp. 365-380 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.12.009

Luca Appolloni, Roberto Sandulli, Carlo Nike Bianchi, Giovanni Fulvio Russo

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Abstract

Landscape ecology investigates spatial patterns of natural and anthropogenic ecosystems (anthromes). However, most studies were focused on terrestrial environment, while submarine landscape (seascape) was poorly taken into account. This study represents a ﬁrst attempt to perform an integrated landscape/seascape spatial analysis of the densely populated Gulf of Naples. Multivariate analyses on landscape metrics were used to detect differences in the spatial patterns of ecosystem patches between landscape and seascape and to compare the effects of anthropogenic impact in terms of spatial heterogeneity. Results showed that landscape, mainly composed by humans perturbed ecosystems, presents higher patch edge dimension, diversity and evenness, and a lower fractal dimension than seascape. Signiﬁcant differences on edges, diversity metrics, and heterogeneity among patches were also detected between land- and seascape. Landscape showed low γ -variability (a measure of heterogeneity) due to the highly homogenous distribution of ecosystem patches, a characteristic feature of impacted anthropogenic system with low resilience. Conversely, seascape showed high γ -variability, a feature of systems with low anthropogenic impact and high resilience. These outcomes suggest that anthropogenic impact on integrated territorial systems is inversely related to γ -variability, and consequently to resilience. In addition, they also suggest that seascape is more resilient than landscape, also in a highly exploited and overcrowded territorial system like the Gulf of Naples. Such ﬁndings can also be useful in support of environmental accounting and management at landscape scale.

The Scientific Research On Natural Capital: A Bibliometric Network Analysis

pp. 381-391 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2018.12.010

Elvira Buonocore, Flavio Picone, Giovanni Fulvio Russo, Pier Paolo Franzese

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Abstract

Natural capital can be deﬁned as the stock of natural resources generating a “natural income” in terms of valuable ﬂows of different types of ecosystem goods and services. According to “strong sustainability”, natural capital is irreplaceable with manufactured capital and it ensures a life support system vital for human well-being. In this study, the global scientiﬁc literature on natural capital was explored by performing a bibliometric network analysis. The investigation of the networks of authors, countries, journals, and keywords allowed a comprehensive overview of the scientiﬁc literature on natural capital. Results showed an increase in the attention given to the topic of natural capital worldwide. The combined use of social network analysis and bibliometrics proved to be a promising approach for exploring the scientiﬁc literature by applying systems thinking in bibliometric science.

JEAM Volume 7, Issue 1

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Removal of Dibutyl Phthalate and Its Effects on Bacterial Communities in Lab-scale Constructed Wetlands

pp. 1-10 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.03.001

Xiaohui Wang, Jingdan Yang, Shuai Du, Yuan Yuan, Minghan Zhu, Yuan Li, Xiaobiao Zhu

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Abstract

The environmental release of phthalate acid esters (PAEs), and their potential health and environmental risks have attracted increasing concerns. The removal efﬁciencies of the most frequently identiﬁed PAE, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and their effects on bacterial community structures were examined in two vertical ﬂow constructed wetlands (VFCWs). In this study, the inﬂuent DBP concentration was about 600 µ g/L and the removal rates reached above 61.1% during the study period. Catalase activity analysis showed that both treatment and control systems had signiﬁcantly higher enzyme activities in the surface soil than subsurface substrate, and DBP signiﬁcantly deteriorated the catalase activities (p < 0.05). Miseq sequencing data showed that DBP signiﬁcantly increased the diversity of bacterial community (p < 0.05) and altered the overall bacterial community structure in wetland systems as revealed by Principal component analysis (PCA). The relative abundance of ﬁve genera, including Azohydromonas, Bdellovibrio, Desulfobulus, Roseomonas and Thiobacillus signiﬁcantly decreased in the wetland at the present of DBP. However, four genera Propioniciclava, Geobacter, Paludibacter and Bacillus signiﬁcantly increased under DBP. This study provides insights into our understanding the treatment performance of DBP in wetland systems, and their effects on the diversity and structure of bacterial communities under DBP in wetland systems.

Renewable Empower Distribution of the World

pp. 11-26 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.03.002

Dong Joo Lee, Mark T. Brown

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Abstract

Large spatial scale emergy analysis can beneﬁt from the latest spatial datasets that are the result of satellite-based models. This study utilized global spatial datasets developed by NASA and others to perform a global scale emergy analysis, producing global coverages of renewable energy sources leading to global coverages of empower for the renewable inputs to the geobiosphere. Total Aerial Empower Intensity (AEI) was computed for each 1 arc degree cell of Earth by taking the maximum value between the sum of the solar, tidal and geothermalinputs and the largest of the secondary inputs(wind,rain,runoff)for each cell. An important issue related to spatial emergy analysis was highlighted during this study. Previous methods of computing Unit Emergy Values (UEVs) (or transformities) for secondary and tertiary renewable ﬂows (wind,precipitation,and chemical and geopotential exergy of run off) relied on global average data. With these spatially explicit global data,new UEVs were computed that rely on spatially explicit ﬂuxes of wind,rainfall,elevation,and modeled total dissolved solids data. Using these data and GISitis possible to compute regional UEVs for chemical and geopotential exergy ofrunoff. Finally, we identify an interesting and well-known phenomenonin spatial analys is known as the Modiﬁable Area lUnit Problem (MAUP) and explore how it impacts spatial emergy evaluations. The MAUP results from spatial aggregation and scale of analysis and ultimately results in statistical bias when summary statistics are computed from spatial data. Our recommendation is ﬁrst to be aware of MAUP when dealing with analysis of spatial data and second, when aggregating data over regions it is best to minimize subdivisions. Considering this outcome we suggest that evaluations that employ the max emergy algebra and GIS be done at the coarse scale of the regionalboundary,ratherthan on a cell by cellbasis.

A Holistic Method of Assessing Efﬁciency and Sustainability in Agricultural Production Systems

pp. 27-43 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.03.003

Francis Molua Mwambo, Christine Fürst

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Abstract

Until now, no single universally adaptable method exits for complete assessment of efﬁciency and sustainability of agricultural production systems. Existing method sare limited for analyzing agricultural systems. This paper presents the Emergy-Data Envelopment Analysis method; which we built from aggregating Emergy Analysis (EMA) and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) into a framework, to provide improved accounting of resource and energy use efﬁciency including absolute and relative sustainability of agricultural production systems. The method of assessment is as follows. An emergy diagram of the production system is drawn to visually represent the system. Inputs and outputs of the system are estimated on an annual base in their standard physical units of measurement. The available energy content (exergy) of input and output resources are calculated respectively using appropriate methods of calculating exergy for each given input and output. This is done assuming the concept of energy memory. Using Microsoft excel, the emergy of the input and output resources are calculated as the mathematical product of resource exergyand unit emergy value (UEV). The reﬁned procedure of emergy calculation by Brown and Ulgiati (2016) is applied, and it leads to the retainment of selected inputs and outputs of various resource types. The emergies of the selected resource inputs and outputs from comparative peer systems of production (decision making units - DMUs) are concatenated into a table (.csv format), and imported into a model of DEA. The optimization function in DEA applies Pareto efﬁciency to estimate the relative technical efﬁciency (rTE) scores among peer units. The score value is a proxy indicator for relative sustainability. The calculated UEV of a product equates to eco-efﬁciency, and it is applied to evaluate the resource and energy use efﬁciency. Selected emergy-based indicators of proven reliability are applied for the evaluation of absolute sustainability. The composition of the evaluation outcomes provides improved accounting information that contributes to completeness of assessed efﬁciency and sustainability of agricultural systems as a whole.

What Drives the Voluntary Environmental Reporting (VER): An Examination of CDP India Firms

pp. 45-57 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.03.004

Praveen Kumar, Mohammad Firoz

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Abstract

Environmental reportingis increasingly getting important in the value creation processes of the ﬁrms,but reporting standard sareal most silent in this regard. Consequently, stake holders need to rely on voluntary environmental reportingin order to better assess the environmental implications of the ﬁrms’ operations. We studied the determinants of voluntary environmental reporting (VER). Using a sample period from 2011 to 2015, we test whether and to what extent key ﬁrm and industry-speciﬁc variables such assize,the bookto marketvalue(BTMV),cross-borderlisting,ownership, industry,leverage,age,corporate governance and ROE can explain a ﬁrm’s probability of voluntary environmental reporting. The present study covered all 137 Carbon Disclosure Project(CDP) India ﬁrms,excluding banking and ﬁnancial ﬁrms, amalgamated into nine different industry-sectors Consumer Discretionary, Energy, Industrials, Information Technology, Materials, Telecommunication, Utilities, Consumer Staples and Health Care. By employingpanel-data analysis this study revealed that Size, Cross Border Listing and age play a key role in explaining a ﬁrm’s voluntary environmental reporting policy across all industry sectors. Moreover, we also founda signiﬁcant effect of the book to market value (BTMV), ownership, industry-sector,Leverage and Corporate governance on a ﬁrm’s voluntarily carbon disclosure. Further, the present study did not ﬁnd any evidence to support that the sampleﬁrms’ proﬁtability e.g. ROE affect the ﬁrms’choice to voluntarily report their environmental activities. Moreover, voluntary environmental reporting by Indian ﬁrms is very low during sample period. The ﬁndings of this examination are crucial for managers, investors, regulators and standard-setters as they work toward developing standards for measuring,assuring,and reportingon a ﬁrm’s climate change actions.

Life Cycle GHG Emission Comparison of Infant Nursing Using Breast Milk Versus Formula

pp. 59-72 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.03.005

Yash Amonkar, Nafisa Chowdhury, Yiran Song, Jane Siyuan Wu, Parth Vaidya, Christoph J. Meinrenken

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Abstract

The choice between feeding an infant using breast milk or formula milk continues to be a topic of debate among nutritionists, health practitioners, and parents. This study compares the life cycle environmental impact of both infant feeding methods in terms of green-house gas (GHG) emissions. Prior environmentalimpact studies in this context have treated breast milk feeding as a zero GHG emission activity and thus concluded that formula milk feeding is an‘environmentally harmful’ feeding method. While these views have reached wide audiences, they have not yet been subjected to more detailed scientiﬁc scrutiny. However, as this study highlights, there are a variety of GHG emissions associated with breast milk feeding,such as from additional caloricintake by the mother and the use of breast pumps, infant bottles, and milk refrigeration in-between feedings (lifestyle-dependent). The results of the analysis show that breast milk feeding contributes a total of 1,858 g CO2e/day compared to the 1,136 g CO 2e/day associated with formula milk feeding (base case). Further, for breast milk feeding, the mother’s additional caloric intake contributes about 66%, the end of life stage 13%, use phase 10%, packaging 8%, and outbound transportation 3% to the total GHG emissions. In the case of formula milk feeding, the raw materials contribute about 40%, inbound transportation 23%, use phase 13%, outbound transportation 12%, manufacturing7%, and packaging5% to the total GHG emissions. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to account for parameter uncertainty and shows that breast milk feeding (1,463-2,202 g CO2e/day) one infant, for typical mothers’ lifestyles, is indeed the larger contributor of GHG emissions as compared to formula milk feeding (873-1,400 g CO2e/day). Additional scenarios such as individual mothers’ lifestyle choices were analyzed and discussed as well. These show that,in some scenarios,breast feeding mothers who are able to forego pumps and infant bottles altogether may incur less GHG emissions than mothers feeding formula milk.

Environmental Health Risk Assessment of Phthalic Acid Esters in Drinking Water Source Catchments of South China

pp. 73-85 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.03.006

Tao He, Huaiyang Fang, Wei Guan, Zhenyu Luan, Dongyang Wei, Jiajun Fan

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Abstract

In recent years, phthalic acid esters (PAEs) have been widely detected in drinking water sources in China, threatening environmental health and has therefore become an urgent demand for environmental health risk assessment. Through the analysis of water quality testing at a South China backup water source, we detected PAEs. The results show that the PAE class pollutants, phthalicacidn-butylacetate(DBP),phthalate(2-)ethylhexylester (DOP) and diethyl phthalate (DEP), are detected at all sampling points, with DOP concentrations higher than that of DBP and DEP.The quantiﬁed concentration of the three PAE pollutants in the drinking water catchment area is higher than that of other drinking water sources in other towns in the basin, and the concentration is also above the median-level in similar areasat homeand abroad. DOPis the primaryPAE pollutant controlled by domestic demand in the catchment area. In this paper, we made an environmental health risk assessment for the PAE class of organic pollutants in the backup water source using the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) method. The results show that the carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic risk values as sociated with PAEs for the water sourceare less than the provisions of USEPA but that the PAE concentrations are elevated relative to domestic and similar foreign water sources. Given the potential health risks of PAEs,water environment risk management should guard against the possible sources of PAEs.

A Dynamic Hydro-Socio-Technical Policy Analysis of Transboundary Desalination Development

pp. 87-115 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.03.007

Ashley Page, Saeed P. Langarudi, Sue Forster-Cox, Alexander Fernald

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Abstract

Global realities of water shortages and population growth – coupled with water quality concerns – increase tension over water allocation and jeopardize the sustainment of societies. Desalination of brackish water exists as an approach to augment inland freshwater supplies. Possible strain on freshwater supply in the transboundary Sunland Park-Santa Teresa-San Jer´onimo-Anapra (SSSA) region, along the United States-Mexico border catalyzed interest in the prospect of desalination, but its effects here remain unknown. Hydrosociology literature recognizes the need to develop integrative water research methodology. No established criteria exist for these calls in the literature, and this approach has not yet been expanded as a hydrologic-social-technical (hydro-socio-technical) framework or applied to a policy case study examining desalination or transboundary water management. This study developed a system dynamics model to analyze the necessity and hydrologic impacts of desalination within SSSA’s complex hydro-socio-technical system. The study could not reject the hypothesis that desalination fails to represent necessary or hydrologically beneﬁcial policy solutions for SSSA,asanalyzed from this hydro-socio-technical systems perspective through at least the 100-year period. This research introduces the concept of perceived water availability as a mean store cognize the correlation between water usage and the perception of available water. The results will inform emerging policy decision-making efforts in SSSA regarding the future of the community’s water supply and serve as a case study for communities facing similar water policy considerations.

JEAM Volume 7, Issue 2

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Energy Efﬁciency: Barriers and Solutions towards Environmental Integrity and Well-being Policies

pp. 117-120 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.06.001

AmaliaZucaro, Andrea Genovese, MassimilianoLega, Francesco Gonella

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Abstract

Energy and resource constraints are increasingly becoming a concern for populations, scientists and policy-makers. Implementing multi-faceted policies capable of maintaining or improving the current living standard, ensuring business and job opportunitiesas well as preserving environmental integrity and natural capital is becoming a priority in international strategies. One of the most demanding challenges for human beings in the near future is the development of energy policies characterized by low environmental impacts, prevention of resource scarcity and the possibility of achieving socio-economic well-being. This Special Issue focuses on recent developments and visions in the ﬁeld of energy and resource efﬁciency to promote sustainable environmental policies at different scales of processes, sectors and society.

Hidden Environmental Vulnerability in Relation to the Instability of two Medieval Monastic Communities and Consequences for Present Environmental Management Options

pp. 121-137 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.06.002

Paolo de Vingo, Wim Vandewiele, Marco Casazza, Massimiliano Lega

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Abstract

This paper aims at discussing the importance of environmental factors in the stability of communities at local scale. Two case studies, referred to two medieval monastic communities are chosen as historical examples, under low-carbon conditions, to show the effects of the interplay between a lack of Community Based Adaptation (CBA) and difﬁcult or changing environmental conditions. The case studies refer to the monastery of Bobbio (Piacenza, Emilia-Romagna,Italy) and Castelletto Cervo(Biella, Piedmont, Italy). In particular, the ﬁrst case shows a lack of transformation of harsh regulations to the difﬁcult environmental conditions of that time, which leaded to a revolt inside the monastery. On the other side, the decline of Castelletto Cervo Cluniac priory depended upon a bad management of economic resources in a time of environmental variability, which affected the agricultural yield and the life of many villages in the considered area. The choice analyzing the case of two low-carbon communities (i.e.: before the XVI century, when the massive diffusion and use of coalmodiﬁed these conditions) depends on the present international political will and plans of decarbonizing our societal lifestyles. This research highlights the hidden environmental causes behind the social instability and,in one case, the collapse of the community. Besides further reasons for historical interest, which are not deepened in this research, these case studies show that environmental factors are often unseen or neglected in planning the life of a community, also exertinga strong inﬂuence on real economy at local level. In order to develop appropriate policies to guaranteea long-term resilience for the socio-ecological stability of communities, an adequate monitoring of appropriate environmental and social parameters can sup-port planning activities.

“Energy, Economy, Environment, Wellbeing” the Role of Formal Languages For Finding and Implementing Solutions

pp. 139-153 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.06.003

Corrado Giannantoni

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Abstract

The paper aims at showing that the problems concerning the aspects mentioned in the title can better be analyzed by focusing on the formal languages adopted to describe them. This is because any formal language is always the faithful “reﬂex” of the subjacent mental categories aprioristically adopted to describe the surrounding world. At the same time, the recognized expressive capacity of any formal language decisively inﬂuences the way of thinking, decision making and acting. Up to know all the aforementioned aspects have usually been dealt with in terms of Traditional Differential Calculus (TDC), which however presents some unsolvable and/or intractable problems and, in some cases, it offers solutions characterized by a “drift” (with respect to experimental results), which often represents a “symptom” of possible “side effects”. A different formal language, however, is now contextually possible. It is precisely that which emerges from the original thermodynamic approach proposed by Boltzmann and Lotka and, afterwards, much more deeply developed by H. T. Odum. A new scientiﬁc approach that has more recently led to a formal language termed as Incipient Differential Calculus (IDC). The different solutions obtainable by adopting the two distinct formal languages, although with reference to the same problems, will be illustrated through the following ostensive examples: the research for equilibrium conditions in a free-market economy, the development of renewable energy sources, climate change forecasts, and some problems related to human health (for instance, new oncological therapies). The paper concludes by asking a basic question: “Where are we going?” In this respect the paper delineates three possible answers: i) a generalized persistence in the traditional formal approach (TDC); ii) some occasional adoptions of the innovative IDC approach; iii) more probably it may be expected the adoption of both approaches at the same time, so as to choosethe optimalsolutions onthe basis of the correspondingexperimental results.

An Indicator-based Approach to Measure Urban Sustainability in India

pp. 155-184 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.06.004

B. Sudhakara Reddy, Arpit Tiwari

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Abstract

This study provides a snapshot of the sustainability of selected Indian cities by employing 57 indicators in four dimensions to develop an overall city sustainability index. In recent years, ‘urban sustainability’ has become a prominent concept due to its complexity. Urban areas propel growth and at the same time pose a number of ecological, social and infrastructural problems and risks. High population density and continuous immigration among developing countries produced the highest risk in natural and manmade disasters. These issues and the inability of policy-makers in providing basic services make the cities unsustainable. The objective of the paper is to develop a city sustainability index (CSI) to measure and evaluate the urban regions in terms of sustainable performance. A benchmark approach is used to measure the cumulative performance of the 25 largest Indian cities based on economic,environmental,social and institutional dimensions. The CSI, consisting of four dimensions disaggregates into 14 categories and ultimately into 57 indicators. The data are obtained from public and non-governmental organizations,as also from city ofﬁcials and experts. The results show that ﬁve of India’s largest cities-Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai and Mumbai-take the lead in sustainability. India’s largest ﬁnancial center, Mumbai, ranks relatively low in social and environmental dimensions due to inadequate infrastructure, losing out to a new entrant, Hyderabad. Kolkata’s score is harmed by relatively poor infrastructure and lowper-capita Gross Domestic Product(GDP). By ranking a sample of diverse cities on a set of speciﬁc dimensions the study can serve as a baseline of current conditions and a marker for referencing future results. The benchmarks and indices presented in the study providea unique resource for the governmentand the city authorities to learn about the positive and negative attributes of the city and prepare plans for sustainable urban development.

Assessing the Energy Metabolism of Urban Systems: A Comparison of Napoli and Hong Kong Through the MuSIASEM Approach

pp. 185-196 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.06.005

Renato F. Rallo, Amalia Zucaro

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Abstract

Urbanization, that is the expansion of cities and the emptying of the countryside, has been the trend of the last decades and does not seem to stop. In light of this phenomenon, quantitatively analyzing cities through shared and standardized methods has become a scientiﬁc urgency. Nevertheless, the efforts made so far have proved to be insufﬁcient, and a science of cities is still far from being constituted. In this paper we present a ﬁrst attempt to evaluate the energy metabolism of Napoli and Hong Kong through the Multi-Scale Integrated Analysis of Societal and Ecosystem Metabolism (MuSIASEM) and its End-Use Matrix, that is connecting produced and consumed ﬂows to their users. The comparative analysis provides interesting results and potentially allows for useful policy recommendations.

Solid Wastes Wastewater and Remediation Costsin An Urban Slum: The Case Study of A Gypsy Camp in Napoli (S Italy)

pp. 197-211 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.06.006

Marco Casazza, Pier LuigiAccardo, Vincenzo Severino, Massimiliano Lega

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Abstract

Slums represent a sort of black box within the urban environment, generating multiple impacts, that are often acknowledged, but forgotten by urban planners and policy-makerswhen envisioning the future of cities, due to the dimension of social exclusion in which slum dwellers live. These criticalities pose a further threat to urban sustainability. The ﬁrst problem is revealed by the lack of quantiﬁcations about many environmental and socio-economicfactors,as well as by a general lack of understanding about slums as systems. This study is aimed at over coming the present knowledge weakness,developing a preliminary site-speciﬁc system representation of a slum as a system. In particular,a case study of a Gypsy camp in Napoli(S Italy) was chosen for such a purpose. Focusing on solid waste, an approximate evaluation of informal waste picking activity was performed. Basic parameters of generated wastewater,whichis dispersedin the environment dueto the absence of any sewerage infrastructure,are accounted according to environmental engineering standards. In addition, considering a second abandoned camp (Brecce Sant’Erasmo, Napoli, Italy), speciﬁc-site remediation costs were calculated. Results evidence the necessity of a better understanding of resources ﬂows within slums. A ﬁrst planning action for the studied area would be to separate the areas for waste processing with respect to living areas. Basic infrastructures for solid was teand wastewater management are also necessary to improve the life quality of slumd wellers, while reducing the existing impacts. Finally, also a study to detail atmospheric emissions characteristics would be desirable. Speciﬁc upgrading solutions are indicated on the basis of the existing literature. They include planning and monitoring actions, together with the development of engineered solutions for waste and wastewater management.

Learning From Hybrid Innovative-Vernacular Solutions in Building Design: Emergy Analysis of Sudanese Energy-Saving Technologies

pp. 213-227 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.06.007

Silvio Cristiano1, Francesco Gonella

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Abstract

Building design needs to consider that the lifetime of its products will likely face relevant environmental and socio-economic changes, strongly related to the limits imposed by the geo-biosphere. Taking action to face such limits beyond trendy, debatable “green-washing” policies can be either a forward-looking choice or rather something imposed by necessity. These have been the premises of the collaboration between humanitarian NGO Emergency Onlus and architecture ﬁrm TAMassociati in designing hospitals in the African regions of Sahara and Sahel: in fact, several African countries – long living in scarcity – represent an example, and an opportunity to learn of some alternative to the mainstream development model. In this work, some vernacular building techniques are revisited towards a low-tech innovation for energy saving and renewables use that, in a next future, could turn out to be useful also for architecture in the Global North; they are here reviewed under a systemic point of view, and presented with the evaluation of their potential advantages in terms of long-term socioenvironmental sustainability. The investigated low-tech innovations able to use local renewables yield net savings one order of magnitude higher than conventional solutions, while granting a strict energy demand such as that of a specialised North-like hospital in a hot dry area. Such results seem therefore as an encouragingexample from which to learn also in other contexts with a milder climate, where possible poorer energy drivers (e.g., the sun) would be clearly matched to less extreme conditions.

Barriers and Solutions to the Implementation of Energy Efﬁciency. A Survey about Stakeholders’ Diversity, Motivations and Engagement in Naples (Italy)

pp. 229-251 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.06.008

Chiara Vassillo, Daniela Restaino, Remo Santagata, Silvio Viglia, tag

Jarmo Vehmas, Sergio Ulgiati

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Abstract

This paper presents the results of a survey designed to explore the wide range of issues and concerns related to energy efﬁciency implementation. The survey also assessed the level of engagement of the different kinds of stake holders and related actors. The International Energy Agency estimates that energy efﬁciency may generate a reductionin global energy demand by 2030, assuming that nations keep recent commitments to energy efﬁciency policies and that energy efﬁciency is placed on an equal footing with any other energy resource and it can contribute to the three main challenges of world energy policy: energy security, sustainability and economic development. This reduction will be possible thanks to new technology and stricter government policies, but while overallper capita energydemand is expected to decrease, demand for electricity is foreseen to double by 2060, requiring greater infrastructure investment in smart systems that promote energy efﬁciency. Energy efﬁciency advocates also argue that efﬁciency improvements can provide social beneﬁts such as increased productivity and employment. Anyway, the actual impact of the energy efﬁciency implement ation remains uncertain. In this framework, engaging all the stake holders and empowering them as the main actors of these policies and plans becomescrucial. Nevertheless, according to the surveyed stake holders, uncertainty and concerns about EE policies remain high and call for increased focuson education and good practices.

JEAM Volume 7, Issue 3

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Environmental Management Accounting and Environmental Performance Assessment (Institutional Analysis)

pp. 253-262 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.09.001

Eka Siskawati, Eko Ganis Sukoharsono, Rosidi, Abdul Ghofar, Daniel T. H. Manurung

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Abstract

The research objective is to understand changes in management accounting and environmental performance assessment (institutional analysis), which play a role in preparing the company’s environmental report. This study discusses the company’s response when there are changes in government regulations relating to reporting environmental performance. Regulations on reporting environmental performance are categorized into phase 2, namely phase 1 environmental reporting, environmental impact analysis (AMDAL)and reporting on environmental performance phase2, Corporate Performance Rating Program(PROPER). Phase 1 environmental reporting (AMDAL) includes reports of basic activities on the proﬁle of company activities, potential impacts and environmental damage caused and steps to preventthem. Meanwhile, environmental reporting phase 2 (PROPER), includes reports of activities that are beyond compliance, namely the design of internal environmental management systems and corporate relations with external social communities. The regulation on phase 2 environmental performance assessment(PROPER) is compulsory and limited, and this study discusses the motivation behind the company’sresponse to the environment. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach to explain the role of environmental management accounting in reporting the company’s environmental performance. Data collection methods through interviews and observations were analyzed using case studies and institutionalist theory analysis framework. The results of this study are not intended to be generalized. Therefore,the discussion and research ﬁndings are more contextual. This research was conducted on the company Tango Company, a national company owned by the Indonesian government engaged in mineral processing(cementproduction). The ﬁndings of this study are that environmental management accounting practices at Tango Company involve planning environmental activities and measuring environmental performance in accordance with the assessment criteria expected by the government. The practice of environmental management accounting began to be seen since the government imposeda stage 2 environmental performance assessment

Convergence Analysis of the Sanitation Index for 158 Countries

pp. 263-277 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.09.002

YuSang Chang, Yoo-Taek Lee, Yoonji Lee, MyungHoon Jin

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Abstract

Since 1990, 2.1 billion people in the world gainedaccess to improved sanitation by 2015. However, 2.4 billion people still did not use a basic toilet. We examined whether the country differences in the sanitation index existing in 1990 had narrowed. We deployed convergence methodology to answer the questions for 158 countries. Results of our analysis indicate that the sanitation indexes for 158 countries were converging toward a rapid reduction of dispersion and a moderate catch-up. The speed of dispersion reduction was led by the upper middle income group, together with the South Asia region. The speed of catch-up was led by the low income group and the East Asia Paciﬁc region. The policy implication from this study is that individual countries should be guided by the speeds of catch-up and dispersion reduction estimated from the appropriate subgroup where they belong for evaluating their future progress.

Consumer Acceptance towards Renewable Energy Transition

pp. 279-290 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.09.003

Ritanjali Majhi, Aneesha Banerjee

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Abstract

The transition of non-renewable to renewable energy has always been a matter of concern for the development of a sustainable environment. As climate change and pollution are affecting the habitat, it is the dire need of the situation that some changes should be incorporated. Different stakeholders may not possess the same outlook and level of acceptability towards it, but it is the prime concernof the moment. This paper studies energy consumers ‘attitude towards the transition to renewable energy in their daily life and the constraints preventing them from it. Respondent completed questionnaires which show a strong will and awareness about the rising concern of environmental change and people already have energy conservation attitude. In the ﬁrst phase, we have analyzed the relative importance of the household practices and the conservation pattern. Whereas, in the next, we have studied the demographic and behavioral factors resulting in these habits. The output which generated shows that the consumers are interested in conservation techniques and are taking measures for adapting it. They showed relevant interests in the cultivation of renewable energy and concern toward environmental hazards generated due to fossil fuels. It is also seen that based on their lifestyle and educational background the consumption pattern varies and moreover it can be said that different people have a different outlook towards it. People belonging to the higher education group (Cluster 1, 115 people) are more adaptive towards the renewable energy transitions rather than, the lower educational group (Cluster 3, 41 people) where they are resistive towards the changes. The survey was done in an Indian concept and policy makers can utilize the ﬁndings to incorporate changes and build awareness among the residents.

A Multi-scale Ecological Impact Assessment Method for Large-Scale Transmission and Transformation Projects: A Case Study of Zarut-Qingzhou ±800kV Direct Current Transmission Project

pp. 291-301 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.09.004

Hanqin Mo, Shicun Liu, Weibing Wen, Dong Liang, Xi Chen, Yanwei Zhao

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Abstract

Ecological impact assessment (EcIA) of large-scale transmission and transformation projects has attracted attention, but assessment of the impacts of these projects is mostly conducted at a single scale and is not quantitative. Considering the potential impacts at different scales, an assessment index system is proposed to assess impacts at three different scales, namely at the scale of landscape, ecosystem, and sensitive areas. To express the multi-scale effect, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method was used to construct a hierarchical evaluation framework, and a comprehensive index was used to quantitatively evaluate the ecological impact. On this basis, a multi-scale EcIA method system for transmission and transformation projects was established. An assessment of impacts relating to the ZarutQingzhou ±800kV transmission project case study was conducted, and the results show that this multi-scale comprehensive EcIA method integrates the three scales well and can quantify the impacts both at the single scale and at multiple scales so that the evaluation is more objective and comprehensive. This study introduces a novel, accurate, and objective method for EcIA for large-scale transmission and transformation projects.

The Effect of Solar Energy on the EnvironmentalImpacts and Sustainability of Food Industry

pp. 303-321 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.09.005

Anastasia Martzopoulou, Nicos Komninos

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Abstract

The agri-food sector is in front of the great challenge of decoupling its economic growth from energy consumption. This research work investigates the effect of energy sources on the environmental impacts and sustainability of food industries in Greece as a case study. The emergy analysis was used as a supporting action tool for the diagnosis and the benchmarking of food industries in terms of their sustainability and environmental impacts, according to the available source of energy. The energy sources examined are from conventional sources and solar energy, the most available renewable energy source in Greece. All the inputs and outputs of the food industrial activity were applied, highlighting the interaction between sustainable development, environmental impact and competitiveness. In this study,it was found that the exploitation of solar energy by the examined food manufacturing industries contributes to the reduction of the environmental impact by up to 20.4% and the increase of their sustainability by 39.7%, in comparison to those of conventional energy sources. Also, an improvement of 7.3%in the emergy index of competitiveness was observed with out necessarily requiring a reduction in labour input, which may mean either paycut or a reduction in human resources. Finally, an improved algorithm of the Environmental Loading Ratio indexis calculated and a new emergy index, the Emergy eco-Productivity Indexis introducedin this work. The latter is increased up to 45.85% with the contribution of solar energy and expresses the inﬂuence of the monetary, non-monetary and renewable sources in the ﬁnal economic product.

A Multicriteria Index System for the Selection of Best Management Practices at the Watershed Scale

pp. 323-336 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.09.006

Lei Chen, Yuechen Xiao, Cheng Sun, Jiajia Xu, Zhenyao Shen

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Abstract

The selection of Best Management Practices (BMPs) is the key of nonpoint source pollution control at a watershed scale. To date, there are no comprehensive methods or corresponding tools for the selection of BMPs by considering the operation constraints on local spatial conditions, especially for those large-scale watersheds. In this study, a new method was developed to provide economically, ecologically and operationally effective solutions, which integrates the Geographic Information System-based multicriteria index analysis with a watershed model. Land use, area, soil type and slope were used as potential constraints for selection system. This method helps identify the potential placements for BMPs at the watershed scale and reduce the work of an accurate algorithm-based optimization of BMPs placement in watershed. The system was validated with Soil and Water Assessment Tool in Daning River watershed, the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, China. Based on the results, the new approach provides more speciﬁc potential sites for BMPs than traditional methods at a watershed scale. Within the new framework, the vegetative ﬁlter strip was suggested as the most widespread practice, while the constructed wetland is the least effective option. The area with relatively ﬂat agricultural plains was suitable for most practices, suggesting a more operationally effective scheme if the new method was used. The system developed in this study could easily extend to other watersheds to provide an objective selection method and the potentialsite of BMPs.

An Emergy-based Assessmentof the Impact of Dam Construction on River Ecosystem Service Values: A Case Study of the Three Gorges Dam

pp. 337-361 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.09.007

Chang Liu, Gengyuan Liu1, Qing Yang

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Abstract

It is urgent to make a break through in methodology and construct a method to evaluate the impact of dam construction on the changes of river ecosystem service values. Taking Three Gorges Dam as an example, the service values of river ecosystem before and after dam construction are evaluated. The results show that the indirect services are the largest, followed by the direct services and the existing services. With respect to the direct services, the most signiﬁcant service value before and after dam onstruction is NPP increase. In terms of the indirect values, the material transportation service of the river is impaired after dam construction, but there is the addition of hydropower generation, which becomes one of the signiﬁcant river services. With respect to existing services, the climate regulation capacity of the river ecosystem is improved after dam construction; the service value is 2.74 times of that before dam construction. Though dam construction brings some positive effects, such as ﬂood control, it also leads to negative effects, such as land inundation. Comprehensively considering the positive and negative effects of dam construction,the total river ecosystem service value before dam construction is 4.82×1021 sej·yr−1, while the total river ecosystem service value after dam construction is 7.65×1021 sej·yr−1, which has increased by 58.79% than before, indicating that there is an overall positive impact of dam construction, and the overall service value of the river ecosystem is enhanced.

JEAM Volume 7, Issue 4

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Sustainability as a Strategy for the Commons

pp. 363-366 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.12.001

Biagio F. Giannetti, Feni Agostinho, Cecılia M.V.B. Almeida, Zhifeng Yang, Gengyuan Liu, Linda Hancock, Natalie Ralph, Bimal Arora

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Abstract

The overexploitation of commons under the purpose of economic growth (i.e. the business-as-usual pattern) is resulting in serious environmental and social damages in many regions around the world. This claim for efforts to better understand the human-nature nexus that would support public policies focused on a real societal development. A sustainable development is mandatory, and for such a goal, higher amount of studies on the most diverse systems and topics are necessary to support better-oriented public policies. This special issue brings research show cases focused on the different aspects under the large umbrella of sustainability concept, including environmental assessments of production systems, natural-social interaction, and the current important theme of happiness. It is expected that the presented studies may collaborate to spread information on the strategy for the commons and, maybe, support further studies regarding such an important topic for a sustainable development.

A Study of Relationship between Culture, Gender and Sustainable Tourism: A Study of Bhutan

pp. 367-379 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.12.002

Swati Sharma

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Abstract

The effect of tourism on environment is a subject of growing concern. Increasing environmental consciousness has made sustainable tourism management a current issue. This paper aims at exploring the relationship between culture (i.e. long term orientation and indulgence vs. restraint), gender and the attitude towards sustainable tourism. This study follows a descriptive co-relational design. The data was collected from the indigenous residents of Bhutan. Out of 500 responses received 249 were found complete and usable. The findings of the study reveal significant relationships between the dimensions of sustainable tourism, gender and culture viz., long term orientation, and indulgence v/s restraint. This study contributes to the knowledge base of sustainable tourism with respect to restricted tourism policy of the Kingdom of Bhutan. The results indicate a strong positive relationship between cultural values and sustainable tourism. The findings will enable government and policy makers to determine the public reaction toward tourism development, proposed governments policies and legislations on sustainable tourism development.

Environmental Assessment of Used Lubricant Oil in Southern Brazilian Region

pp. 279-290 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.09.003

Malaquias Zildo Antonio Tsambe, Cassio Florisbal de Almeida, Cassia Maria Lie Ugaya, Luiz Fernando de Abreu Cybis

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Abstract

Brazil is currently the sixth world largest lubricating oil consumer, as a result, the sixth largest used lubricating oil (ULO) producer, with an annual ULO production of about one million liters. Therefore, due to the environmental consequences and also to the large amount of this waste, it becomes necessary to quantify and qualify the impacts resulting from ULO management process. The study evaluates, through the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology, the current ULO management system in southern Brazil. Two comparisons regarding the environmental performance scenarios were defined with the use of eight impact categories: land use, nonrenewable energy, global warming potential, aquatic acidification potential, aquatic eutrophication potential, human toxicity potential, terrestrial ecotoxicity potential and carcinogens potential. The LCA was conducted based on Simapro, using the “IMPACT 2002+ for ULO v2.12/IMPACT 2002+” method. The scenarios comprised the two ULO management models currently used in Brazil. The first, which is designated in the study, by TTR scenario and the second, regarded as TsTR scenario. The LCA results showed that the re-refine phase, in the TsTR scenario, presents lower impact when compared to the corresponding TTR scenario phase. The TsTR scenario presented the greatest impacts in seven categories (carcinogens, terrestrial ecotoxicity, land use, eutrophication, globalwarming, use of nonrenewable energy and acidification), corresponding to about 87.5% of all the impacts. On the contrary, the TTR scenario presented lower impacts in these seven categories, impacting more on only one category (human toxicity). In relation to transportation, the opposite occurs, transport in the TTR scenario presents a larger contribution, impacting 100% more than transport in the TsTR scenario. The presence of the transshipment center decreases the amount of re-refining impacts in 87.5% of the categories in the TTR scenario. Transport in the TTR scenario contributes relatively more to the fact that the collecting vehicles cover a larger average distance (789km) when compared to transport in the TsTR scenario, where the vehicles cover a smaller average distance (629.44km). The study allowed to conclude, through the LCA methodology, that the ULO life cycle with TTR type scenario causes lower impacts on the natural environment than a cycle with a TsTR type scenario.

Drivers to Promote Sustainability as Operational Strategy: Cross Content Analysis

pp. 395-408 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.12.004

G.C. Oliveira Neto, L.F.R. Pinto

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Abstract

This research performed a cross content analysis of articles included in the special volumes of the Journal of Cleaner Production (SVJCP), derived from the International Workshop Advances in Cleaner Production (IWACP), to identify drivers for sustainability and propose new researches focused on promote sustainability as operational strategy. The research methodology consisted of bibliometric and systematic review on 163 papers through descriptive statistics and social networks analysis. The content analysis based on the extract of ecoefficiency tools, research methodology, industrial sectors, countries and approach of economic, environmental and social factors. Thus, this study contributes to the theory by suggesting the following opportunities for future researches: (i) adoption of action research methodology for the development of conceptual models and embedding them into corporate practice; (ii) international multi-cases analysis to compare Brazilian companies with firms from other countries and identify solutions to improve the environmental management of Brazilian companies; (iii) explores the use of industrial ecology and emergy by companies; and (iv) outline the metrics used by firms for monitoring the three sustainability factors, economic, environmental and social. Furthermore, the practical contributions consist of drivers to ensure the functioning of ecological systems, which increases the sustainability performance through the continuous business growth, human welfare and natural resources preservation.

India: A Framework for Design of Energy Critical Infrastructure to Inform Disaster Policy Making

pp. 409-427 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.12.005

Linda Hancock1,2†, Mathew Cherian1,2

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Abstract

This research aimed to construct a framework to guide policy decisionmaking for climate compatible resilient energy systems, appropriate for countries prone to disasters. It followed a method based on a literature review and the applied example of India. Part I of the framework comprised a snap-shot of a country or regional energy source mix, an overview of energy policies/politics and an outline of the challenges of RE and policy design for more resilient energy systems in disaster-prone regions. Using secondary analysis of official Indian energy system data, the research demonstrated the challenges of energy transitions for a developing country highly dependent on fossil fuels. Part II further developed key elements of the framework, structured around key concepts of climate compatible critical infrastructure, technology based on ethical materials choices used in energy generation devices and energy systems, development of disaster risk resilience (DRR), governance and public policy analytical lenses for design of climate compatible resilient disaster energy systems, and finally, identification of criteria for assessing the ongoing sustainability of energy systems. The framework was designed to assist policy makers by laying out steps to address the proactive design of disaster and climate change compatible energy systems and critical infrastructure.

Assessing Footwear Factories Under Emergy And Material Flow Accounting Tools After Implementing Cleaner Production Practices

pp. 429-448 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.12.006

Raquel R. Janot Pacheco, Cecılia M.V.B. Almeida, Feni Agostinho, F´abio Sevegnani, Biagio F. Giannetti, Gengyuan Liu

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Abstract

Strategies have been developed in the last decades to improve the sustainability of produced goods, including cleaner production (CP) as an important approach in identifying problems and propose alternatives for improvement under a holistic perspective. Nova Serrana city, located at Minas Gerais state, Brazil, has a footwear cluster considered fundamental for the regional socioeconomic development. However, the production is still based on outdated management techniques that make it economically noncompetitive and cause high load on the natural environment, which claims for studies supporting decisions towards higher sustainability. This work aims to discuss about the results obtained after applying the CP approach in three footwear factories located in Nova Serrana city. Additionally, the factories are assessed under emergy (with an “m”) and material flow accounting tools. Results show that CP was helpful in identifying opportunities for improvement related to better management that is usually easy and cheap to be achieved, including employee training, updating internal control of material storages, reusing scrap materials, and redesigning the procedure of synthetic leather cutting. The indicators obtained from the used environmental accounting tools suggest two approaches for a decision: (i) when pursuing sustainability under a global perspective, footwear factory C should be promoted since it causes lower load on the upstream processes by demanding lower emergy (3.8 E18 sej/yr), abiotic, water and air resources (1.13 E6 kg/yr, 3.66 E7 kg/yr, and 3.82 E5 kg/yr respectively); (ii) when pursuing sustainability by considering socioeconomic short to medium needs, footwear factory B should be promoted since it has higher efficiency in producing footwear (4.03E13 sej/kg for emergy demand, 10.64 kg/kg for abiotic, 319.09 kg/kg for water and 3.96 kg/kg for air). This work contributes with practical basis for the environmental accounting and management of footwear enterprises providing important subsides for decisions.

Calibration of a Questionnaire for Evaluation of Happiness

pp. 449-462 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.12.007

Rose R. Souza, Marcos J. Alves-Pinto Jr, Cecılia M. V. B. Almeida, Feni Agostinho, Biagio F. Giannetti

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Abstract

Safeguarding of the environment towards sustainability is a concept intrinsically tangled to the concept of happiness since all resources and energy come directly or indirectly from the natural capital. However, there is still no agreement on how one can measure happiness. This paper presents a proposal for the calibration of a questionnaire for the evaluation of happiness. The calibration aims at the practicality of the instrument with similar valuation to that obtained by the application of the questionnaire model of the Bhutan Studies Center (BSC). Initially, the BSC model questionnaire was adapted, excluding questions linked to specific cultural aspects of Bhutan, and the open-ended questions were transformed into closed-ended multiple-choice questions. The BSC model questionnaire has 207 questions, which integrate 33 indicators divided into 9 domains. This extensive questionnaire requires considerable time, resulting in little practicality and high application costs. For this reason, from the extensive questionnaire, a reduced questionnaire was formulated with care to maintain the 9 domains (psychological, time use, health, education, cultural diversity, good governance, community vitality, ecological diversity and standard of living). Questions were taken from the extensive questionnaire so that the score resulted in an amount equal to or greater than 70% of the total domain. The reduced questionnaire had 79 questions and 21 indicators. The two questionnaires were then applied (extended and reduced) for two study groups: a group of 6 postgraduate students and the other 6 family heads of a low-income community. In this experiment, the time of application and the level of sufficiency reached in each domain was evaluated. The average application time went from 3 hours (extensive questionnaire) to 30 minutes (reduced questionnaire). However, when comparing the final score scores by domain (sufficiency level) of the extensive and reduced questionnaires, differences (for each study group) were observed in the sufficiency level in some domains. To achieve the same result by using the reduced questionnaire, calibration criteria were developed. The criterion of intervention in the reduced questionnaire was to add questions until a similar value was obtained from the level of sufficiency, and the maximum difference of one level of sufficiency per domain for a single interviewee was tolerated. As a result of the calibration, the student group questionnaire had 111 questions and 26 indicators. In this case, there was intervention in the domains of cultural diversity, well-being and ecological diversity. In the case of the interviewees from the low-income community, the questionnaire, after calibration, had 107 questions and 25 indicators, being calibrated the domains of a standard of living, education, community vitality and ecological diversity. The results show that depending on the target population, the domains to be calibrated may vary. The calibrated reduced questionnaire, besides reducing the application time by 6 times, concerning the extensive questionnaire, results in a similar assessment of happiness. A calibrated questionnaire, the result of this research, can contribute to public policies, where they influence people’s way of life.

Adoption of Design for Environment Practices in the Electronics Industry: A Case Study

pp. 463-480 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2019.12.008

M.J. Alves-Pinto Jr, J.V. Mendes

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Abstract

Design for Environment (DfE) is a product development approach that encompasses environmentalmanagement principles covering the entire product cycle and can be a tool to reduce the environmental impact and minimize the resources used in the making of a product. Faced with the pressure of society and governments on organizations to develop products and services that reduce environmental impacts, the dissemination of studies on the adoption of DfE practices can contribute to the lifecycle management of the product. Electronic products are characterized by quick popularization, quick obsolescence, and trend for tech aficionados. However, the fast replacement of these products, as well as their disposal, can lead to serious environmental problems due to the long term required for components decomposition. The problem is exacerbated by the lack of appropriate disposal sites for many obsolete products. In this way, DfE can reduce the environmental impacts of electronic products throughout its development cycle. In this context, this article aims to identify DfE practices theoretically and analyze the adoption of these practices in the electronic sector. A systematic review of the DfE literature thus allowed to identify several practices that were categorized in the product development cycle. Subsequently, a case study was conducted in an electronics company, with the purpose of empirically observing the adoption of DfE practices. The theoretical research and the empirical study allowed to observe the practices adopted and the context of the application of DfE in the product development cycle. The customer has a strong influence on product functionality, which affects some decisions by the electronics industry, especially in the usage phase of the product.

JEAM Volume 8, Issue 1

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Identiﬁcation of the Characteristics of the Industrial System of the Multilevel Urban Agglomeration in the Pearl River Delta

pp. 1-17 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.03.001

Yao Song, Yanxu Yu, Jiansu Mao

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Abstract

Hierarchical study of the industrial systems (ISs) of urban agglomerations, as compound systems under the interaction of multiple cities, is of great signiﬁcance to the planning and management of a speciﬁc region. In the Pearl River Delta, one of the most vigorous economic zones in China, the developments of its nine component cities are unbalanced. Taking this area as a research object can not only promote its coordinated and sustainable development but can also predict and guide the industrial development of other regions. This study divides the Pearl River Delta into three levels from inside to outside as follows: Shenzhen, the urban belt composed of Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Dongguan, and the urban agglomeration composed of nine cities. According to the material ﬂow process from resources to products, a framework of the relations between each component of an IS and the external environmentas well as an evaluation index system are established. On this basis, taking China as a basic standard, the industrial characteristics of the three levels are quantitatively analyzed and compared. The results show that the concentration in the product processing and manufacturephase (PM), especially in the the manufacturing sector of computers, communication and other electronic equipment(CEM), is more signiﬁcant in the Pearl River Delta compared with China and that the dominance of CEM becomes increasingly obvious with the convergence to the core city. This area also has characteristics of higher proﬁts, lower energy consumption and lower pollut antdischarges, which are 2.17%, 74.55% and 74.52% better than those of China, respectively. Shenzhen, whose discharges of smoke and dust and waste solids are as low as 0.43 ton/billion CNY and 0.51 ton/billion CNY, respectively, plays a leading role in energy saving andd ischarger eduction in the urban agglomeration. Huizhou, Zhaoqing and Jiangmen are key cities to increase the energy efﬁciency of the IS in the Pearl River Delta, whereas Dongguan is the key city to enhance the positive driving effect of the central city belt to marginal cities.

Impact of Climate Change on Crop Yields: Evidence from Irrigated and Dry Land Cultivation in Semi-Arid Region of India

pp. 19-30 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.03.002

Rajesh Kalli, Pradyot Ranjan Jena

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Abstract

With population pressure constantly growing in India the crop productivity is struggling hard to catch up. Erratic rainfall and steady rise in temperature create widely uncertain outcomes for the farming communities. Against this backdrop,the presentstudy has used a climate dataset constructed at a ﬁner spatial level from a southern Indian state namely Karnataka to analyze the yield response of rice and maize crops to climate change. Using a time period from 1992 to 2012, ap anel data set has been made at the district level. The ﬁxed effect regression results show that rice and maize productivity has been impacted adversely due to a steady rise in temperature in the state. The extent of damage is found to be 7% to 10%. Further,the study has also probed the role of irrigation as a climate adaptation strategy and has found out that adverse yield impact is reduced in the presence of irrigation. These ﬁndings provide some speciﬁc directions for policy framing to curb yield damage arising from climate variability.

Comparative Analysis of Tree, Meta-learning and Function Classiﬁers to Predict the Atmospheric Concentration of NO2

pp. 31-39 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.03.003

Adven Masih

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Abstract

The concentration of air borne pollutants is rising in recent years. Due to serious health effects of NO2, SO2 etc. their constant monitoring is important for the policy makers, as it providesearly pollution estimates before it crosses permissible limits set by the state. For air quality modelling, several statistical techniques based on Artiﬁcial Neural Networks have been applied,however,Tree and meta-learning based classiﬁers have rarely been adopted for air pollution prediction purpose. Thus, for this study, Tree (Random Forest, Reduces Error Pruning (REP) Tree), meta-learning(Bagging, Random Subspace) and Function (Multilayer Perceptron and Support Vector Machine) based classiﬁers have been employed to predict atmospheric concentrations of Nitrogen dioxide (NO2). The study uses 3 atmospheric pollutants; Sulphur dioxide(SO2), Carbon monoxide(CO), and Hydrochloricacid(HCl) and 5 meteorological parameters temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind direction and atmospheric pressure. Moreover, for validation of prediction models the performance of different classiﬁers were compared. The results obtained suggest that Tree classiﬁers in general and Random Forest in particular, can outperform Function (MLP and SVM) and meta-learning (Bagging and Random Subspace) classiﬁers to predict the atmospheric concentration of NO2.

Congestion Chargesin Mega Cities: On Affection and Effectiveness

pp. 41-54 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.03.004

Yanhong Yuan, Guomin Li, Rongxia Zhang, Wei Li, Qingqing Fan

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Abstract

Implementing congestion charges is a method that large cities in China are considering to employ as a solution to the growing trafﬁc congestion problem in recent years. The purpose of this paper is to make a comprehensive prediction and analysis of the effect and impact of the policy. The system dynamics model of trafﬁc congestion charge is established based on ﬁve main factors, such as per capita income, population, GDP, private car owner ship and air sulfur dioxide content. In the model, the population loss measures peoples’ bearing of the policy and the amount of private cartravel measures policy effects. The results show that after the implementation of the scheme is stable, private car travel volumes will decrease signiﬁcantly and keep growing. This shows that congestion charging scheme can effectively control congestion, and will not have a signiﬁcant impact on car demand. In addition, the high toll price will have a signiﬁcantly negative impacton the low-income population,so it is vitalthat a moderate congestion toll price is ﬁxed.

Emergy Synthesis of Food Preparation and Diets in the “Green” Urban District Rosendal, in Uppsala, Sweden

pp. 55-71 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.03.005

Jacinda J. Maassen, Torbj¨orn Rydberg, Daniel Bergquist

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Abstract

Urban populations typically consume large quantities of food and foods with high resource demands. To better underst and the environmental support behind the food preparation and diets of a “green” urban district, this study evaluates the resource support and sustainability of three diet scenarios in Rosendal, Uppsala, Sweden using emergy synthesis. Scenario one represents actual food preparation and the average diet including meat consumption in Rosendal from Maassen (2017). Two hypothetical scenarios, a vegetarian and pescatarian diet, are examined to investigate the potential implications of different diets on environmental support and total emergy. The results show that the total emergy is lower for the vegetarian and pescatarian scenarios in comparison to the diet including meat, butthe ratios and indices for all three diets are not signiﬁcantly different. The ratios and indices indicate the food preparation and diet system in Rosendalis a consumerand high through put system that is not sustainable or efﬁcient, mainly due to strong reliance on imported and to a high degree nonrenewable inputs. The results also show that the typical resident, no matter the diet, overshoots the solar share strictly based on their food preparation and consumption alone. This indicates that the speciﬁc diet is not as signiﬁcant as to where and how the food is produced, processed, packaged and delivered from farm to fork. Therefore, this study concludes that speciﬁc dietary changes may not be the main issue when considering the sustainability of food consumptionin urban populations, but rather the next larger system from which the food is obtained. To improve the efﬁciency and sustainability of urban food preparation and diets, food should be considered from a holistic perspective that considers environmental performance and resource support in the larger scale systems from where food is sourced and food production should be integrated into urban planning policies.

A Systematic Review on Anaerobic Textile Industrial Wastewater Treatment: Inﬂuence of Processes, Microbial Communities and Bioreactors

pp. 73-91 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.03.006

Innocent Tayari Mwizerwa1, Yu Wang, Xiaoguang Chen,

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Abstract

Anaerobic textile wastewater treatment has become popular in industrial textile treatment for decades. Therefore, the inﬂuence of processes, microbial community and bioreactor relevance need to be updated. This paper provides reviewed literature of processes, microbial communities and bioreactors used in anaerobic textile wastewater treatment. These include; temperature, organic loading rate (OLR), up ﬂow velocity, sludge retention time (SRT) as well as hydraulicretention time (HRT) and particle size distribution. Archaea and bacteria as the main groups of microbial communities involved in the treatment of textile wastewater compounds have been highlighted. Expanded granular sludge bed reactor, internal circulation reactor (IC), anaerobic bafﬂed reactor (AnBR), membrane coupled high-rate reactors (MCHR), membrane coupled systems, up-ﬂow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor (UASB) and spiral symmetry stream anaerobic reactors(SSSAB) were also reviewed.

Declining DiscountRate Estimate in the Long-Term Economic Evaluation of Environmental Projects

pp. 93-110 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.03.007

Antonio Nestic` o, Gabriella Maselli

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Abstract

The decision-making processes regarding projects with long-term environmental implications are strongly inﬂuenced by the estimate of the Social Discount Rate (SDR). An economic parameter that makes it possible to compare ﬁnancially the Cash Flows (CFs) that occur at different time points, in the discounting the SDR reduces excessively the costs and beneﬁts more distant over time. If this problem is particularly marked in the Cost-Beneﬁt Analysis (CBA) conducted with time-invariant discount rates, it can be overcome by adopting time-declining discount rates. Thus, starting from the examination of the potentialities connected with the application of hyperbolic discounting in the CBAs, the aim of the work is to characterizean innovative probabilistic model for estimating the Declining Discount Rate (DDR), able to overcome the limits of the theoretical approaches recognized in the literature. The model is implemented on the data of the Italian economy and the DDRs estimated in this way are used in the economic feasibility study of an irrigation reconversion intervention. The processing proves that the adoption of time-declining discount rate allows attributing greater “weight” to the positive long-term externalities that characterize the interventions that promote sustainable development. This with decisive repercussions on the priority order of the initiatives to be ﬁnanced and therefore on the entireal location process of resources to be used to projects with inter generational environmental implications. (*) The contribution to this paper is the result of the joint work of the two authors, to which the paper has to be attributed in equal parts.

JEAM Volume 8, Issue 2

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Modeling the Land Use Change Process on the South Coast of the Caspian Sea Using Logistic Regression and Artiﬁcial Neural Network

pp. 111-123 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.06.001

Ali Majnouni-Toutakhane

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Abstract

The study aimed to model earth land use changing using logistic regression and multi-layer Perceptron artiﬁcial neural network in the South Coast of the Caspian Sea in Iran. Satellite Landsat images belonging to 1993, 2000, 2008 and 2017 has used. Modeling the potential of earth covering change was conducted using logistic regression and multi-layer Perceptron artiﬁcial neural network. Markov chain and a hard prediction model was used to forecast earth covering changes from 1993-2017 calibration method. Kappa coefﬁcient results showed that regression (0.8657) has more accuracy compared to a multi-layer Percept.

A Life Cycle Assessment of Bread Production: A Cuban Case Study

pp. 125-137 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.06.002

Karel DieguezSantana, Yannay Cacas-Ledon, JulioA. Loureiro Salabarria, Amaury Perez-Martinez, Luis E. Arteaga-Perez

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Abstract

The bread production sector is a major food business for Cuban population, which has grown slightly in recent years. In an attempt to pro-vide a better understanding about the food industry sustainability in Cuba, this paper presents an environmental life cycle assessment to estimate the impact of bread production on the environment. This study evaluates from factory gate to output analysis of the processing factory, which includes processing each product and packaging. Two scenarios were compared to assess the effect of bread production on deteriorated technology, the potential beneﬁts of incorporating new technology and clean production practices. The main results show that the Bread Production System-year 2011 (Scenario 1), presents the main impacts on humans and the ecosystem; where the bread production process shows the greatest impacts, with inorganic respiration and acidiﬁcation / eutrophication being the most relevant categories of this environmental study. In the comparative study, the implementation of new technology in the bread production process allows for greater environmental compatibility, and reduces the overall effects related to the different impact categories by 44%, and damage categories by 47%. Finally, the environmental results were compared with other published studies on bread productionin different countries, and various improvement measures are proposed to reduce the environmental impacts of the production process.

Ecological Regionalization for the Ecological Protection in Power Transmission and Transformation Projects

pp. 139-150 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.06.003

Hanqin Mo, Yanwei Zhao, Weibing Wen, Dong Liang, Qian Hong

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Abstract

Ecological regionalization in China is of great signiﬁcance for guiding rational landscape planning and regionally differentiated ecological protection, as well as the management and layout of power transmission and transformation projects. Based on the principle of genesis, 11 indices, including elevation, slope, precipitation, river system, vegetation type, vegetation coverage, soil type, land use pattern, soil erosion intensity, bird migration path way,and bird habitat distribution, were selected to characterize the topography, hydrology, vegetation, soil, and bird activities. Fuzzy Cmeans (FCM) cluster analysis was used to divide the country into 4 main ecoregions and 17 sub-ecoregions, and the ecological characteristics, sensitivities, and ecological protection points of each ecoregion were deﬁned. The results show that the regionalization results is objective and feasible and can providean operational basis for incorporating ecological planning and differentiated,large-scale ecological management into power development.

A Framework for Screening and Risk Assessment for Priority Assessment Chemicals in China

pp. 151-166 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.06.004

Xiangyi Yu, Yan Mao, Jun Lin

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Abstract

The abuse of toxic and hazardous chemicals has caused environmental pollution and harmed human health. As a result, chemical risk management has become a hot research topic around the world, and sound chemical management has become a key objective of sustainable development. Based on the concept of chemical risk management, many developed countries have identiﬁed toxic and harmful chemicals among their existing chemicals, and have prioritized assessment of the most dangerous chemicals and of chemicals that create a high risk of environmental exposure. Their goal has been to support a comprehensive risk assessment that will guide the implementation of risk management. This management model has been widely recognized by the international community, particularly in developed nations, but has not been fully implemented in developing nations. By analyzing three mature international risk assessment methods, we identiﬁed potential solutions for establishing methods that are most suitable for the current situation in China. Based on our literature review, we propose a screening method, the “criteria comparison method”, and a two-stage risk assessment method to prioritize the assessment of chemicals in China. The screening method proposed in this paper focuses on the hazards created during their manufacture and use based on the internationally accepted Globally Harmonized System hazard classiﬁcation theory and principles, to ensure that the method is scientiﬁc and easy to operate. The proposed two-stage risk assessment method is mainly based on risk theory (risk = hazard × exposure), which fully considers the technical capability of chemical risk assessment in China. The screening and risk assessment methods will help decision-makers to screen potentially hazardous chemicals and carry out risk assessment for China’s priority assessment chemicals, thereby providing support for improving management of chemical risks in China.

Characteristics of Pore Water Dissolved Organic Nitrogen in the Sediment of Erhai Lake Basin, China

pp. 167-178 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.06.005

Li Zhang, Shengrui Wang, Qingxuan Sun, Han Liu, Wenzhang Li

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Abstract

The distribution of Erhai Lake sediment pore water DON followed the pattern of middle (1.449 mg/L) > south (0.828 mg/L) > north (0.266 mg/L), with the highest concentrations being found in the least polluted areas. The sediment pore water DON mainly contained hydrophilic substances and substances derived from microbial sources. Most of these were integrated into humic acid-like substances (∼78%), which beneﬁted for reducing sediment DON releasing risk. There were more chains in Erhai Lake sediment pore water DON, with a small number of aromatic substituents. The characteristics of DON components were suggested to be related to human activities.

On-road Vehicle Emission Inventory and Its Characteristics Analysis in Northeast China: A Case Study of Changchun, China

pp. 179-200 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.06.006

Chengkang Gao, Qiao Ba, Kaihui Song, Qingjiang Xu, Yuhong Xing, Weiwei Chen, Zhenbo Yu, Hongming Na, Sen Wang

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Abstract

The transportation sector in Northeast China is facing challenges of fuel combustion and vehicle maintenance, like many high latitude areas, for the cold weather, long-lasting snow and associated slippery roads. The high reliance on vehicles rather than bicycles reinforced the challenges, resulting in inefﬁcient fuel burning and high emissions from mobility. To better understand transportation emissions from cold areas and inform emission control strategies, this study analyzed the temporal and spatial dynamics of transport emissions in 2016, taking Changchun city as a typical city representing northeast China. Based on ﬁeld investigation and national motor emission guideline, this study established a 1km×1km spatial high resolution emission inventory for atmospheric pollutants in Changchun City and analyzed emission responsibility from different types of vehicles. The results showed that the annual emissions of atmospheric pollutants CO, HC, NOx, PM2.5, and PM10 from road movement sources in 2016 in Changchun were 137,700 tons, 29,000 tons, 40,900 tons, 2200 tons and 2400 tons, respectively. Small passenger vehicles had the highest contribution rates to CO and HC emissions, which were 47.8% and 57.9% respectively. Heavy trucks had the highest contribution rates to NOx and PM which were 41.5% and 43.85%, respectively. Small passenger cars and heavy-duty trucks are the focus of future road source air pollution control. On the spatial level, the emission intensity of atmospheric pollutants from road movement sources in Changchun showed a trend of decreasing from city center to urban edge, especially concentrated in the square areas enclosed by the eastern urban expressway, southern urban expressway, western urban expressway and northern urban expressway.

Optimal Control of Reservoir Operation Policy under Different Inﬂow Probabilities: A Case Study of Mohamed V Dam, Morocco

pp. 201-214 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.06.007

Wafae El Harraki, Driss Ouazar, Imad El Harraki, Ahmed Bouziane

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Abstract

This paper examines reservoir operation optimization considering probabilistic inﬂows. Optimal control of this model is obtained using Pontryagin’s Minimum Principle. The formulated problem includes non-linear equations on the state variables related to evaporation, stochastic inﬂows derived from historical time series and target ending storage constraint. Mohamed V dam is used as a case study to derive optimal operating rules through numerical simulation. The effect of inﬂows variability is demonstrated and a risk assessment of initial storage’s variation is discussed. A benchmark based on Genetic Algorithms showed the developed model’s performance. 9% of improvementfor the low inﬂows scenario, are achieved.

JEAM Volume 8, Issue 3

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Do the Improved Water Sources for 203 Countries Converge over Time?

pp. 215-228 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.09.001

Yusang Chang, Yootaek Lee, Yoonji Lee, Ki Bae Kim

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Abstract

The Sustainable Development Goals by the United Nations include a global target for Improved Water Source to reach 100% of population by 2030. There are still millions of people lacking the improved access to drinking water. We use the convergence methodology for 203 countries to determine whether the water shortage gap between water-rich versus water-poor countries has narrowed during 2000 to 2015. Results of our analysis show the narrowing of water shortage gaps. However, signiﬁcant variations are found among income and regional subgroups. Implications of our ﬁndings indicate the reduction of water shortage gap within appropriate subgroups is needed. In particular, a set of policy recommendations are presented for sub Saharan Africa region where improvement of water supply is urgently needed.

Sustainability Evaluation of Sheep and Goat Rearing in Southern Italy. A Life Cycle Cost/Beneﬁt Assessment

pp. 229-242 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.09.002

Nausicaa Pollaro, Remo Santagata, Sergio Ulgiati

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Abstract

Sheep and goat farming represent a non-negligible share of the worldwide livestock productions. Ovine rearing, although knowing time periods of growth and descents, is today gaining more interest especially with regards of milk and dairy products. This is due to the rediscovery of the economic, social and environmental potential of this type of farming and its products. This work aims to analyze goat farming and its productions using the life cycle assessment (LCA) method. LCA makes it possible to evaluate and understand the environmental impacts of livestock farming and dairy processing throughout all the phases of their production. The purpose is to highlight and localize the opportunities for reducing the environmental impacts; compare similar products to each other; evaluate and compare the effects related to different environmental and resource management policies. Two zootechnical companies, located in the province of Salerno (Italy), are investigated. The production process analyzed is precisely that of goat cheese, speciﬁcally the “Cacioricotta Cilentana”, a very well-known kind of Italian cheese. The characteristics of goat breeding and the production of Cacioricotta Cilentana are examined in this study. The similarities and differencesbetween the two companieshave been highlighted, linked to the breeding, cheese making and sale phases of the ﬁnished product. Applying the LCA approach, the environmental impacts of the production process were analyzed and quantiﬁed, according to the ReCiPe Midpoint (H) method to derive impact indicators relating to the most signiﬁcant impact categories (including climate change, human toxicity, acidiﬁcation, depletion of fossil resources, depletion of water resources). The evaluation highlights the critical points of the process so as to be able to suggest improvement options.

The Prevalence of Students and Teachers’ Ideas about Global Warming and the Use of Renewable Energy Technology

pp. 243-256 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.09.003

Lukman Abdul Rauf Laliyo, Fenty U. Puluhulawa, Sunarty Eraku, Yuszda K. Salimi

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Abstract

This study aims to explore the prevalence of students’ and teachers’ ideas about global warming and the use of renewable energy technology in Gorontalo, Indonesia. Employing a non-experimental quantitative approach, the data were collected from 1522 respondents and analyzed with the WINSTEPS 3.73 Rasch software. This study reports that 97.6% and 76.08% of the respondents respectively understand the concepts of global warming and renewable energy from the internet (45%) and formal education (<40%). Respondents’ level/status of education, gender, and hometown cause some differences in their ideas prevalence. High school students consider that utilizing renewable energy is not crucial; they also do not concern about global warming effects and the environment. Teachers and university students do not believe that using renewable energy can produce sustainable energy; they also question the safety of renewable energy technology. These ﬁndings indicate the needs for a renewable energy literacy program in formal education in Indonesia.

Can Increase in the Share of Renewable Energy in Economic Growth Shift Turning Point of EKC? Evidence from Time-series Analysis in India

pp. 257-266 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.09.004

Purna Chandra Tanti, Illa Sai Srujana, Pradyot Ranjan Jena

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Abstract

Global warming has a massive bearing on living beings, the country and environment alike. The primary perpetrator of global warming is carbon dioxide emission. This paper tries to ﬁnd out the interrelationship between GDP growth and carbon dioxide emissions and the potential of renewable energy use to reduce carbon dioxide emission from industrial activities in the short and long-run. The interrelationship between GDP growth and CO2 emission has traced in this paper. Auto-Regressive Distributive Lag of cointegration model has been used to show the causal relationship among growth variables and CO2 emission. The long-run and short-run relationship of variables have been analyzed by using time series data from 1971 to 2016. This study basically focuses on the existence of EKC in India. One of the objectives of this paper is to ﬁnd out the existence of renewable energy to reduce CO2 emission in India. The Positive coefﬁcient of renewable energy seen in the ﬁndings of the study could be due to the lack of data and also due to the limited renewable resources in India during that period. It has also been noticed that energy consumption and urban population have a negativeimpactair pollutionparameter, thus directing towards higheremission standards and emphasizing the need for transforming fossil fuel-based energy proﬁle into one of renewable energy. The results of the study on trade openness and renewable energy suggest that India should moderate its levels of energy-intensive trade and focus on a trade involving clean energy technologies, which can be sustained only by increasing endogenous renewable energy capacity.

Biochar as Improver of Methane Production in Anaerobic Digestion of Food Waste

pp. 267-279 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.09.005

Ciro Florio, Paola Giudicianni, Domenico Pirozzi, Vincenzo Pasquale, Raffaele Ragucci, Stefano Dumontet

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Abstract

Anaerobic digestion of food waste is aimed both at the reduction of the volume of waste and the production of methane. Carbonaceous additives such as activated carbons were widely studied as enhancer of methane production. In this paper a low-cost alternative additive, the biochar, was proposed to assess its use for improving both the operational stability and the energetic output of anaerobic digestion. The main objective of the present work is to assess and quantify the increase of CH4 yields induced by the biochar addition and to identify all the main mechanisms responsible of this improvement. The risk related to the Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons release from biochar in the anaerobic digestion media was discussed as well. To this aim, biochar obtained from steam assisted slow pyrolysis of Populus nigra L. up to 600 ◦C was used. Anaerobic digestion of food waste mixture was carried out in a batch reactor in mesophilic conditions (37 ◦C). Four tests were conducted by adding 0, 1, 4 and 10 wt% of biochar on wet food waste mixture basis. Results showed that more CH4 is produced even in the ﬁrst hours of the anaerobic digestion test when 10 wt% of biochar was added to the food waste mixture (about 65 wt% more at 96 h), thus denoting a reduction of the lag phase. A total increase of CH4 yield of 14 and 42% when 4 and 10 wt% of biochar was added to the food waste mixture. In conclusion, analyses of both the liquid phase during the tests and biochar sampled at the end of anaerobic digestion process revealed that biochar favored the decomposition of acetic acid, adsorbed some inhibitors such as butyric acid, and provided a suitable habitat for microbial colonization.

Green Economy as a Paradigm of Sustainable Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan

pp. 281-292 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.09.006

Maxat Kalikov, Bakytnur Zh. Uteyev, Aiman Khajieva, Uldana A. Torekulova

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Abstract

The aim of the paper is to analyse the green economy as a paradigm of sustainable development of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The paper found that the use of alternative energy is an integral part of the development of the green economy. It is determined that the total capacity of renewable energy sources in the world until 2024 will increase by 50%. The necessary elements of the transition to the green economy are the development of new ﬁnancial instruments, namely, payments for ecosystem services, green banking, stocks and bonds, markets for the sale of intellectual property in environmental technologies.

An Integrated Pollution Prevention Ecosystem for Small-Scale Production of Raw Coco-nut Jelly in Craft Villages —— A Case Study from Mekong Delta, Vietnam

pp. 293-310 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.09.007

Le Thanh Hai, Tra Van Tung, Tran Van Thanh, Le Quoc Vi, Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, Tran Thi Hieu, Son Le, Sibylle Braunegg, Gerhart Braunegg, Hans Schnitzer

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Abstract

Raw coconut jelly is a popular byproduct of the coconut processing industry in the Asia Paciﬁc which can enhance the added economic value for the local families in the rural area. However, the coconut jelly production has resulted in signiﬁcant environmentalimpacts, particularly to the aquatic environment due to its heavily polluted wastewater e.g. very high values of COD (up to 120,000 mg/l), of total nitrogen (up to 1,740 mg/l), and of total phosphorus(up to 64 mg/l). The available wastewater treatment technology for such type of wastewater is likely to be not economically efﬁcient due to the small-scale production at craft villages in the developing countries. This study developed and demonstrated an integrated eco-model for small (family) scale production of raw coconut jelly in craft villages which applied Cleaner Production sollutions for pollution prevention on the basis of available conditions at the local family. The system demonstration showed a win-win solution for family with major beneﬁts by reduction of 90% of pollutants (i.e 27 kg COD, 21.4 kg BOD5, approx. 7 kg N, 113 g P and 28 kg SO2− 4 for one production batch), as well as the other beneﬁt by major reduction of 90 % of investment and operating costs of the wastewater treatment plant.

JEAM Volume 8, Issue 4

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The development of countering monopolization in the electric energy industry

pp. 311-322 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.12.001

Vitaly G. Korolev

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Abstract

The relevance of the topic is that countering monopolization in the economy and protecting competition is one of the important tasks of the state. The purpose of the paper is the analysis and determination of the directions of development of antimonopoly regulation in the electric energy industry in Russia. It was determined that the market is still monopolized, with rather strict regulation and significant barriers for new entrants. It is proposed to reduce these barriers for access to retail and wholesale markets for new participants, the development of digital energy for the development of competition.

Legislative regulation of criminal liability for environmental crimes

pp. 323-334 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.12.002

Yermek A. Buribayev, Zhanna A. Khamzina, Canzada Suteeva, Nurlan Zh. Apakhayev, Sergazy Zh. Kussainov, Kantkul Zh. Baitekova

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Abstract

The only effective mechanism in the fight against global changes and processes is a conscious attitude to the problem of the planet’s population. The purpose of the study was to compare the national and international experience in combating environmental crime and offenses, to identify advantages and disadvantages, and to develop proposals for possible improvement of existing legislation and practical tools in the matter of environmental offenses in the field of nature conservation. As a result, the system of ensuring and compliance with the criminal environmental legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, its weaknesses and strengths, advantages and disadvantages were considered.

The influence of alternative fuels on the development of large-scale production

pp. 335-349 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.12.003

Anna V. Bobrova, Evgeny A. Stepanov, Tatyana Sakulyeva, Gaukhar Zh. Zhumabekova, Aigul I. Yesturliyeva

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Abstract

The relevance of this research is that the ecological consequences were caused by the mass use of transport at the present stage. The purpose of the research is to compare the priority of large-volume production of two groups of fuels based on price and non-price factors; to identify the main development problems for all types of alternative fuel. The main problems were identified in the development of all types of alternative fuel and shown the possibilities of large-volume production of hydrogen and electric engines under the condition of the state’s active financial and legislative influence.

Regional diversification of rural territories with limited spatial location of green tourism objects

pp. 351-363 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.12.004

Yurii Y. Kyrylov, Viktoriia H. Hranovska, Iryna V. Kolokolchykova, Alina G. Sakun, Kateryna S. Nikitenko, Yana V. Katsemir

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Abstract

The relevance of research is that the process of diversification of rural entrepreneurship has its own specific conditions and features. The aim of paper is to substantiate methodological approaches to the assessment and forecasting of regional diversification of rural areas with limited spatial location of green tourism objects. Article deals with the process of regional diversification of rural territories with limited spatial placement of green tourism objects. It is proved that entrepreneurship in field of green tourism is a specific type of tourism activity, has a social, environmental and economic impact on the development of rural territories of the region.

A retrospective comparison on Europe and China ecological wisdom of pre-industrial urban communities of under the lens of sustainability pillars

pp. 365-385 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.12.005

Marco Casazza, Gengyuan Liu, Francesco Maglioccola, Massimiliano Lega

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Abstract

The design of a sustainable future for cities is of paramount importance, considering both the need of a societal transition and the fact that nearly half of the world’s population is living within growing urban areas. While this process is generally driven the development of technological and socioeconomic solutions, this work opted for a different approach. In particular, the existence of a prior urban sustainability wisdom was searched and assessed under the lens of the three known three pillars of sustainability (i.e.: environmental, economic, social). Wisdom is here considered as the application of a tacit knowledge oriented toward the stability of the urban environment and a city social and economic system. Focusing on the preindustrial urban context in Europe and China, a review was conducted to collect and put together the evidence of such a wisdom. Results evidenced that the urban structure, the urban-rural gradient, food production and the management of water resources were carefully planned to guarantee the survival of the cities inhabitants. The problem of poverty alleviation, still remarked by the sustainable development goals, was already considered as a relevant factor for economy. Trade was anotther relevant element of urban development. Inclusion, belonging to the social dimension of sustainability, was also supported the mainainance of public spaces. Furthermore, the less-considered cultural factors, that are now regaining attention under the light of United Nations Framework Paris Agreement, played an important role, considering, for example, the birth and growth of universities. The present study, which would require further investigations about the socioeconomic dimensions of sustainability, summarized the existence of the hypotesized sustainability wisdom, evidencing the importance of integrating the historical environmental and socio-economic dynamics to improve a sustainable urban planning. This research will need to be deepened trough archaeological, documental/historical and post-processual approaches, to address the need of transition toward a more equitable and sustainable postfossil fuel societies within their urban context.

Influence of Intensity of Rain Strains and Slopes on the Development of Soil Erosion under the Forest

pp. 387-395 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.12.006

Radik F. Mustafin, Rida R. Sultanova, Luiza M. Khasanova, Anzhelika R. Rajanova, Aigul F. Khazipova

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Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine the degree of influence of rain intensity on the soil of the tested slopes of the regional forestry. The paper analyzes the results of studies conducted in the Birsk forestry in the water protection zone. The results of studies of the water permeability of the steep and hollow slopes of the forest massif are presented. After the runoff beginning and with its increase by 1 mm, the mass of washed soil on slopes with the steepness of 15 / 30 reaches 6.2/23.7 t/ha on cultivated lands.

Green Lifestyle among Indonesian Millennials: A Comparative Study between Asia and Europe

pp. 397-413 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2020.12.007

Genoveva Genoveva, Jhanghiz Syahrivar

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Abstract

Unethical business practices coupled with irresponsible consumption activities come with painful environmental costs. Fortunately, various studies have indicated that ecological concerns are the highest among the millennial generation. The aim of this research is to investigate the factors influencing green lifestyle among Indonesian millennials who live in Asia and Europe. Cultural elements, such as religious passion and spirituality, are also incorporated in this study in order to understand how they influence green intention and lifestyle. To our best knowledge, this is the first comparative study to understand the green lifestyle of Indonesian millennials in the two regions. This study gathered a total of 204 valid respondents. We employed a Structural Equation Modelling method to test our hypotheses. We found that 1) the New Environmental Paradigm is a predictor of green behavior intention 2) religious passion, spirituality and green behavior intention are predictors of green lifestyle. Theoretical contributions as well as managerial implications are offered in this study.

JEAM Volume 9, Issue 1

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Environmental Performance of a 7.5 Kw Air/Water Heat Pump

pp. 1-8 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.03.001

Konstadinos Abeliotis, Konstantia Founta

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Abstract

Heat pumps are mechanical devices that can be used for the sustainable generation of heating and cooling energy. However their construction generates also environmental burdens. The aim of this manuscript is the identification of the environmental hot spots of a air/water heat pump via means of life cycle assessment. Inventory data were collected by primary sources. The results indicate that the case of the heat pump, made of stainless steel, is the dominant contributor to the environmental impacts generated by the construction of the heat pump. Moreover, the main impact category affected by the heat pump components is that of human toxicity.

Current State of Soil Fertility Level of the Northern Forest Steppe of the Republic of Bashkortostan

pp. 9-17 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.03.002

Radik A. Mindibayev, Marat G. Ishbulatov, Khalil M. Safin, Aidar G. Baikov, Florid M. Davletshin

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Abstract

The research aims to study the dynamics of soil fertility of agricultural lands of the Northern forest-steppe. For this, in the process of field surveys, soil sections were laid, a description of the morphological structure with the selection of soil samples by genetic horizons. The field stage is carried out by route inspection, according to the coordinates of the previously designated points; sections are laid out with a description of all genetic horizons for the subsequent determination of the name of the soil. Based on the results of field, a digital soil map of agricultural lands was compiled.

Social Demand for Ecosystem Services Provided by Peri-Urban Forests: the Case Study of the Tlemcen Forest (Algeria)

pp. 19-29 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.03.003

Larabi Fadila, Berrichi Mohamed, Paletto Alessandro

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Abstract

Recently, many studies have highlighted the role of urban and periurban forests in mitigating environmental pollution and maintaining human quality of life by integrating the concepts of ecosystem services into forest management strategy. To increase the social acceptance and to reduce the conflicts between users, citizens’ preferences towards ecosystem services should be included in the decision-making process. In the present study, a structured questionnaire was administered to a sample of 180 citizens and 50 forest managers of the Tlemcen peri-urban forest (Algeria). The collected data was processed to show convergent and different preferences between forest managers and citizens towards the main categories of ecosystem services – rovisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural services – provided by the Tlemcen peri-urban forest. The results show that for both groups of respondents the three most important ecosystem services are: tourism and recreation (cultural services), soil erosion protection (regulating services), and biodiversity conservation (supporting services). Conversely, provisioning services (wood and non-wood forest products) are considered marginal by the two groups of respondents. These results are in line with international literature, which highlights in post-modern society an increase in importance of intrinsic values of nature at the expense of instrumental values.

Carbon emission effect of the dock-less bike-sharing system in Beijing from the perspective of life cycle assessment

pp. 31-41 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.03.004

Qingjiang Ding, Jinghui Li, Qixuan Wang, Chunhui Li, Wencong Yue

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Abstract

As the government has begun to promote the sharing economy and green travel, shared bikes have wide spread in many cities in China. Bike sharing system (BSS) facilitates people’s travel, relieves traffic jams, and mitigates carbon emissions. In this research, a basic method is proposed to measure the carbon emission mitigation of dock-less BSS from the perspective of life cycle analysis (LCA). The method is applied in a typical city of China (i.e., the city of Beijing). The carbon emissions of six models of shared bikes in Beijing are calculated in this paper. The results indicate that: (a) the use process of dock-less BSS has mitigated carbon emissions in the central district of Beijing (9.23 Mt CO2-eq in 2016 and 9.26 Mt CO2-eq in 2017); (b) in consideration of all life cycle processes of BSS, the carbon emissions actually has risen with the best scenario of 10% substitute rate (i.e., 33.2 Mt CO2-eq in 2016 and 80.9 Mt CO2-eq in 2017); (c) the carbon mitigation effect of BSS is closely related to the processes of production, maintenance and rebalancing. Finally, to promote the effect of carbon mitigation, it is necessary to control the number of shared bikes and increase their utilization rate.

Assessment of the Water Quality of Karun River Catchment Using Artificial Neural Networks-self-Organizing Maps and K-Means Algorithm

pp. 43-58 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.03.005

Mehdi Ahmadmoazzam, Yaser Tahmasebi Birgani, Mohsen Molla-Norouzi, Maryam Dastoorpour

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Abstract

Analyzing the water quality status is one of the most important issues to control the pollution discharged to the river. This helps to obtain the effective environmental management. However, the conventional water quality indices cannot accurately indicate the water quality status, particularly in the presence of the various water quality parameters. In this study 15, water quality parameters of Karun River were categorized based on the similar variation pattern by Self-Organizing Map (SOM) for a 6-year period between 2013 and 2018. Data were then clustered using the k-means nonhierarchical algorithm for determination of the spatio-seasonal pattern of Karun River’s water quality and discrimination of the sources of water pollution all along Karun River catchment. The results indicated the dissimilar variation patterns of some water quality parameters which were might due to the different sources of pollutions around the Karun River catchment. Moreover, data clustering by k-means specified 5 different groups collected data. Spatio-seasonal assessment identified the critical stations in the Karun River during a 6-year period. The result of the applied methodology showed an integration of SOMand k-means algorithms gives an insight into the similarities of water quality parameters and analysis of the water quality conditions in critical locations. Therefore, it can be used as a tool for efficient decision making in environmental management.

Measuring the Effectiveness of Four Restoration Technologies Applied in a Degraded Alpine Swamp Meadow in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China

pp. 59-74 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.03.006

Xiaoyan Wei, Xufeng Mao, Wenyin Wang, Yaqin Tao, Zhifa Tao, Yi Wu, Jiankang Ling

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Abstract

To assess the effectiveness of the four restoration techniques (one monotechnology, three combined technologies) on a degraded meadow swamp in Three-river Source Region, we developed a Biology-Environment-Service assessment framework that incorporates 12 indicators from plant, soil to ecosystem services. Two years (2018 and 2019) field monitoring and experimental data revealed that a good restoration effect achieved by the ecological restoration project. The average comprehensive restoration index (CRI)of four restoration sites are, respectively, 0.68, 0.89, 0.71 and 0.84, belonging to a level of GOOD or EXCELLENT. Restoration effect of ensemble restoration technologies is about 4.4%-30% better than that of single fencing. The vegetation restoration was about 2.8 times faster than that of soil and ecosystem services under the same restoration technology during research periods. Restoration effect presented significant difference in respond to various restoration techniques. A combination restoration measue (Fencing + water reservation + reseeding) is recommended as a potential effective restoration method for early stage of alpine wetland restoration.

Scarcity Pricing for Water Demand Management: A Case Study in Campina Grande -- Brazil

pp. 75-91 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.03.007

Wanderbeg Correia de Araujo, Karla Patricia O. Esquerre, Oz Sahin, Brenner Biasi S. Silva

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Abstract

Despite being still little explored, tariff policies have a large potential to foster more efficient management of water resources, mainly in scarcity regions. Therefore, this paper proposes a model of water scarcity pricing (WSP), based on the storage average monthly data and historical average data of the volume of the reservoir between January 1996 and December 2017, besides the fixation coefficients of adjustments for each operational range and zones of accumulation of reservoir Epit´acio Pessoa. The simulated results point to an annual percentage of significant reductions in water demand, mainly in years of low levels of water stocks in the reservoir, for example, 8% in the years 1998-2001 and almost 13% for 2016-2017. Moreover, it was also verified, through the water budget boundary (percentage of water bill over average residential income), that scarcity prices are accepted as socially just, because this rate is below the affordable index of 5%, as recommended by the World Bank. The WSP model has been created for the Water and Sewage Company that operates in Campina Grande, but might be easily implemented in all other regions that are supplied by surface reservoirs and operate under similar water scarcity conditions.

JEAM Volume 9, Issue 2

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The Gasification Of Biomass: A Dynamic 3-D Coupling Study in Euler-Lagrange Discrete Element Methods (DEM)

pp. 93-110 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.06.001

Tamer M. Ismail, Lu Ding, Khaled Ramzy, M. Abd El-Salam

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Abstract

The objective of this study is to understand the different phenomena related to the gasification of biomass in dense fluidized bed. It is interested, initially, in the phenomenological characterization of a dense shallow fluidized bed to evaluate the validity domain of the simulation tool used. A coupled transfers of a quasi-3-D system was studied to identify the most influential reaction mechanisms which best translated the gasification of the biomass. The gaseous phase was modeled as a continuum (Navier-Stokes), and the solid phase was processed via the discrete element method (DEM), including a collisional model called “soft spheres”. For this, it was relied upon a basic combustion reaction mechanism including both homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions in order to visualize the evolution of the diameter and density of biomass particles. This was with the aim to evaluate the effects and taking into account the coupling including mass transfer from the chemical model, heat transfer by providing gas heat input, and with the hydrodynamic transport particles entrained by the gas velocity. Among the results obtained, it was found the main characteristics of the dynamics of the bed both chemically and hydrodynamically. By comparison between experimental and simulated results, it can be obtained a little shift between the two signals, which was explained by measurement uncertainties, and the most important was the particle diameter measure (with 33% of possible error). Taking into account these uncertainties, the obtained quantitative values was in good agreement. Finally, the results from simulations were consistent with respect to chemical mechanisms implemented and the respect of the initial conditions considering the size and particle density evolution. Through parametric studies, a 3-D constitutive laws for dense fluidized beds at larger scale and a more detail study of biomass gasification to compare and validate data from the literature were developed.

Do Human Capital and Export Diversification Decline or Augment CO2 Emissions? Empirical Evidence from the MINT Countries

pp. 111-125 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.06.002

Foday Joof, Aliya Zhakanova Isiksal

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Abstract

This paper analyzes the consequence of human capital and export diversification on the CO2emissions of Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey (MINT). To attain the impartiality of the study, the Pooled Mean Group (PMG) is used on panel data from 1975-2010. The outcome from the PMG reveals that education (human capital) has a negative consequence on CO2 in the long term. This indicates that an increase in education reduces the level of CO2 emissions in the environment. Furthermore, export diversification is positively associated with carbon emissions in the long run. The findings also illustrated that the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis is invalid for these nations. The outcomes of Dumitrescu and Hurlin (DH) causality provided evidence for unidirectional causation running from export diversification to CO2 emissions. Also, a feedback association amid human capital and CO2 emissions is found. However, economic expansion, the quadratic term of GDP, and energy consumption have no causal association with carbon emissions.

Dynamic Analysis of a Three-Species Food Chain System with Intra-Specific Competition

pp. 127-143 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.06.003

Lakshmi Narayan Guin, Debdeep Roy, Salih Djilali

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Abstract

The present article deals with a state of phase transition from stability to chaos emanated from a three-species food chain model with intra-specific competition. The model takes into account two distinct categories of functional response specifically Holling type II and Beddington-DeAngelis type along with the intra-specific competition among predators as well. The existence of equilibria having ecological feasibility together with stability in their proximity is addressed meticulously for the system. The perception of dissipativeness of the system in the realm of ecological principles is not ruled out however from the present investigation. Following the standard stability analysis, both the local and the global response of the co-existence equilibrium are paid due attention in order to understand the dynamics of the system. The fact that the proposed system experiencesHopf-bifurcation and chaos is note-worthy. Finally, the validity of the analytical results is established through numerical simulation based on model parameter values.

Application of GIS and Criminal Legal Aspects for Protecting Land Resources in Ukraine

pp. 145-157 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.06.004

A. Shulha, V. Pavlykivskyi, A. Vasyliev, D. Kondratov

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Abstract

The purpose is to develop a theoretical model for land protection managing as an integral part of the natural environment, based on modern engineering and legal protection methods. The information and empirical base of the study is made up of statistical materials from the State Judicial Administration and other law enforcement agencies of Ukraine for 2011-2019. A statistical, comparative legal and structural-logical methods as well as an analytical review of engineering solutions to protect land resources were applied. The National Police of Ukraine statistics on offenses committed in the land relations field shows that in recent years there has been a sharp surge in crime against land resources and an increase in the number of participants in crimes. This can be explained by the imperfection of Ukrainian legislation in the field of land protection and the lack of advanced technologies implementation for the land resources protection. The study significance consists in identifying the imperfection of the criminal legislation of Ukraine in the investigated field and establishing the main signs of crimes against land resources as a criminal-legal category. Thus, the social danger of the act, its unlawfulness, guilt, the presence of a subject of the crime and a specific object of criminal law protection should be recognized as essential features of the crimes under study. It is inappropriate to single out guiltiness as an independent sign of crimes against land resources, since it logically follows from the sign of “unlawfulness”. In addition the comprehensive regional control is proposed taking into account engineering, technical and legal aspects, since Ukrainian law enforcement departments have not used the GIS aspect for crime analysis to date. The research originality consists in the proposal of the comprehensive land resources protection management based on the use of engineering and criminal legal methods, which are complementary.

Enhanced Landfill Leachate Treatment using Spiral Symmetry Stream Anaerobic Bioreactor and Sequential Batch Reactor

pp. 159-171 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.06.005

Innocent Tayari Mwizerwa, Xiaoguang Chen, Baolan Hu, Ismail Muhammed

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Abstract

Landfill leachate has become a disaster in recent years because of high strength liquid compounds. We conducted biological treatment enhanced by chemical precipitation for COD and NH4-N removal through SSSAB and SBR in series. COD and NH4-N were determined before and after treatment in both SSSAB and SBR reactor for aerobic- anaerobic treatment prior to chemical precipitaion. We found out that SSSAB reported better NH4-N removal rates of 97.7% with reduced COD removal rate at 7.7 % in five samples. On the other hand, compared with 98% COD removal rates and 96.1% for SBR. SBR and SSSAB were efficient in removing NH4-N than COD. Chemical precipitation showed a novel impact on biological treatment. The quiet removal rates are related to the little aeration time to facilitate the completion of the nitrification process. Struvite precipitation contributed to a change in the Chemical oxygen demand and Ammonium nitrogen removal through the formation of calcium phosphate and reducing the inhibition of biological treatment in SSSAB. We report the first treatment efficiency route for high strength landfill leachate for COD and NH4-N removal.

Cleaner Production Implementation in a Cocoa Processing Plant in Ecuadorian Amazon

pp. 173-188 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.06.006

Karel Dieguez-Santana, Yannay Casas-Ledon, Liliana Barbara Sarduy-Pereira, Luis Ernesto Arteaga-Perez

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Abstract

The cocoa is one of the most important crops in Ecuador, intended for export and used for chocolate production in other countries. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of the implementation of cleaner production (CP) strategies in a cocoa processing plant of the “Tsatsayaku” producers Association. An initial in situ diagnosis on the plant environmental performance was made, and inputs and outputs of the cocoa paste elaboration process were quantified. The intensive consumption of utilities such as water, electricity, and the generation of different waste streams were themain problems detected in the diagnosis. From this analysis, seven CP alternatives were proposed to reduce the detected problems and generate additional incomes. According to the economic and environmental analyses, the proposed CP options could increase the benefit-to-cost ratio by 0.4. Furthermore, these CP practices could reduce water consumption, solid waste generation and CO2 emissions by 20%, 58.6% and 37.5%, respectively. This study shows that CP strategies are viable options that can improve the environmental performance of small and medium-sized national companies.

JEAM Volume 9, Issue 3

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Organizational Life Cycle Assessment: A Systematic Review of Experiences, Applications and Lessons Learned

pp. 189-203 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.09.001

Jose Hugo L. Junior, CassianoM. Piekarski, Macio G Santos, Antonio C. Francisco

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Abstract

The main objective of this paper was to analyze the Organizational Life Cycle Assessment (O-LCA) method, discussing its applicability based on papers that presented case studies or discussed the concept. Scientific productions from researchers and organizations were used to discuss advances in the O-LCA scientific approach. The systematic literature review method was performed, using the STARR-LCA (Zumsteg et al, 2012) and PRISMA (Moher et al, 2009) models, in 14 scientific papers indexed in two scientific databases, Scopus and Web of Science, from 2012 to 2020. It was given priority to the case studies that applied the OEF or UNEP / SETAC guides, but some authors approach other methods and practices as well, and some followed the steps of the OEF guidelines, ISO 14072 and O-LCA before the establishment of the methodologies themselves. As the O-LCA method is still recent, there are several understandings about its development. The data from this analysis helps organizations and researchers in understanding the divergences and issues that still need discussion to broaden the methodologies and emphasize their roles in the context of Life Cycle Assessment.

Sustainability of Local Food Festivals: A Framework to Estimate Environmental Impacts

pp. 205-217 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.09.002

Notaro Sandra, Paletto Alessandro

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Abstract

Environmental sustainability is aimed to improve human welfare and wellbeing by maintaining the integrity of the life supporting systems of the Earth. The aim of this study is to propose a framework to quantify and analyze the environmental impacts generated by local events and festivals. The proposed framework was tested in a local food festival in Italy and structured in two steps: collection of primary data; processing them based on the principles of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach. The results show that the 5,210 visitors that attended the three days of the food festival produced a total of 0.043 kg of waste per capita and 16 kg CO$_{2eq.}$ per capita. The total environmental impacts caused by all the participants in the three days were: climate change (83,270 kg CO$_{2eq.}$), particulatematter formation (162 kg PM10$_{eq.}$), photochemical oxidant formation (530 kg NMVOC), terrestrial acidification (439 kg SO$_{2eq.}$), and freshwater eutrophication (9.17 kg P$_{eq.}$). The results show that the highest environmental impacts are due to the transport of exhibitor members and materials, while visitor transport has a low impact considering that 80% are local visitors who went to the event on foot or by bike. This study provides indications to the organizers to reduce the environmental impacts in future editions and data to policy makers for defining hectares of reforestation needed to compensate the CO$_{2eq.}$ emissions of the event.

Determinants of Environmental Responsibility Disclosure on Mandatory and Voluntary Reporting of Portuguese Listed Firms

pp. 219-233 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.09.003

F. Barbosa, A. P. Monteiro, C. Pereira

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Abstract

In this study we analyse two Environmental Disclosure Indices (EDI), one obtained from the mandatory reporting (annual report) and the other from the voluntary reporting (sustainability report). More specifically, we construct these indices and compare their evolution. In addition, we examine if they are affected by industry, environmental certification, firm’s operating performance and corporate governance attributes, namely the number and independence of board members. The legitamicy, signalling and voluntary disclosure theories are used to underpin the theoretical relationship between company’s characteristics, corporate governance and environmental disclosure. Based on portuguese listed companies from 2015 to 2017, the results show an increase of 14.6% in the EDI obtained from the annual reports and 25.8% in EDI obtained from the sustainability reporting. In addition, the industry, environmental certification, lucratively, number of members of the board of directors and the ratio of independent members tend to affect the annual report EDI. Regarding the sustainability reporting EDI, the results are identical except for industry and number of board members. While this study brings some insights to such topical issue in Accounting, there is a scarcity of studies for Portuguese firms.

Fear Effect in a Tri-Trophic Food Chain Model with Holling Type IV Functional Response

pp. 235-253 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.09.004

Krishnendu Sarkar, Nijamuddin Ali, Lakshmi Narayan Guin

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Abstract

Of concern the present study deals with an updated food chain model comprising one prey and two predator species in a natural environment with the inclusion of fear effect in both the prey and the median predator population through Holling type IV functional response. The present model is affluent with intra-specific competition among the hunter species having specific mortality. The model system emphasizes its characteristics in the proximity of the probable equilibrium position in the realm of biological dynamics. The response of the system is explored further for its stability analysis based on prerequisites and Hopf-bifurcation phenomena as well with respect to some significant model parameters. A quantitative analysis based on numerical simulation is also carried out in order to validate the analytical results and thereby the applicability of the model is established.

Incorporation of the Sociocultural Heritage as an Essential Component in the Emergy Asessment Of Agroecological Systems in the Central Region Of Valle del Cauca-Colombia

pp. 255-284 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.09.005

Judith Rodrıguez, Marina Sanchez, Angela M. Londono, Johana S. Munoz

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Abstract

In Valle del Cauca, a wide range of agroecological production systems havebeen preserved, withstanding the expansionist onslaught of sugar cane monoculture. The study performed the emergy assessment to three agroecological farms in the municipalities of Andalucia, Sevilla and Buga, incorporating a novel flow of emergy called Sociocultural Heritage (H), which is determinant for the functioning of the agroecological farms in the Colombian context, which includes the contribution of internal family labor given by their permanent residence in the agroecosystem, the family’s activity to promote agroecological culture with external actors to the farm, the memory of information, and the appropriation of knowledge. The identity architecture and management of the agrosystem were expressed by the total emergy (U), computing the emergy flows of: renewable natural resources (R), nonrenewable (N), Sociocultural Heritage (H), purchased materials (M), and contrated services (S). The efficiency of agroecological farms, involved inclusive emergetic indices that contain the Sociocultural Heritage (H): Percentage of Sociocultural Heritage (%H), Inclusive Renewability (%RH) and Inclusive Environmental Burden Index (ELRH). The H flow gave results between 6,95 and 42,19 E + 17 sej / year, representing 45,47% and 55,07% of total emergy as %H. The %RH index gave values higher than 91%, indicating that the farms have a high renewability. The ELRH index presented values between 0,05 and 0,09, indicating a low environmental load of agroecological systems and low pressure of agroecological farms on local ecosystems. The results of inclusive emergetic indixes from this study show that agroecological systems are more sustainable in the long term. This would not be so evident with results obtained through an emergy assessment without the inclusion of the H.

Environmental Assessment of Healthcare Facilities in the Global South -- A Case Study from Pakistan

pp. 285-297 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.09.006

Mustafa Ali, Silvio Cristiano, Yong Geng, Francesco Gonella, Sergio Ulgiati

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Abstract

Pakistan is a resource-constrained country, poor in municipal and healthcare facilities. Existing healthcare structures in the country are often overcrowded, and an effective monitoring and assessment of their sustainability is therefore crucial. In this study, a systemic approach is outlined to evaluate the environmental sustainability of the largest and sole public hospital in the major city of Gujranwala, in the Punjab region of Pakistan. The Emergy (spelled with “m”) Accounting (EMA) method is applied. Its operationalization allows to keep track of the amount of energy that was consumed in direct and indirect transformations to make a product or service. Relevant data include the hospital requirements in terms of energy, water, products, labor, and services. The EMA results offer a supply-side geobiosphereoriented perspective. Emergy indicators show that the hospital is indirectly responsible for a significant stress on the environment, that might be decreased by an increased efficiency in the resource use. On the other hand, a hospital is a complex system, depending on skilled laborforce as well as on several fine imported medical products and related services, making it dependent on external socio-economic systems. The presented results address the geography dependent characteristics of the hospital, and can be used for benchmarking and future evaluation of similar hospitals within and across the region.

How the Global Initiative Report's Indicators are Related to the Strong Sustainability Concept? - A Paraconsistent Approach

pp. 299-318 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.09.007

Estevao S. Langa, Feni Agostinho, Genguyan Liu, Cecılia M.V.B. Almeida, Biagio F. Giannetti

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Abstract

The pressure imposed by human-dominated systems on the natural environment and the search for more balanced social systems are current concerns worldwide. Among scales of attention and shared responsibilities, companies are also in the radar of and interested in to be more sustainable. An efficient way in disclosing information on companies’ sustainability is through sustainability reports, such as the global reporting initiative (GRI) framework. Although recognized as an important alternative, the GRI is receiving criticisms about its ability in accurately express the meaning of sustainability. This work applies the paraconsistent annotated evidential logic (PAEL) on opinions of experts in the sustainability theme to verify whether the GRI indicators are aligned to the concept of ‘strong’ sustainability. A survey applied to twenty-two experts from different field areas, backgrounds and work experiences on sustainability-related issues provided their beliefs and disbeliefs, in a quantitative way, about the ability of each of the 91 GRI indicators in expressing sustainability. Results show high dispersion (coefficient of variation>30%) among the experts opinions for 77 of the GRI indicators, in which the social category appears with the worst performance with its total 48 indicators with high dispersion. This is an indicative of different understandings by experts about the meaning of sustainability concept and/or the meaning and reach of GRI indicators in achieving sustainability. The PAEL reports that all three categories (economic, environmental and social) fall into the ‘paracomplete’ region of the Cartesian unitary square’s graph, indicating an inconclusive result about whether these three categories are able to capture and/or express the concept of strong sustainability. The overall performance (barycenter with beliefs of $\mu$ = 0.26 and disbeliefs of $lambda$ = 0.17) also fall into the paracomplete region, rejecting the initial hypothesis that GRI may show strong sustainability. Recognizing the increasing importance of sustainability reports, this work contributes in identifying and suggesting improvements to the GRI developers on indicators that may better represent the strong sustainability and achieve its main goals. GRI’s framework should be based on a clear sustainability model and provide through a simple, fast and understandable way, information about the purposes of each indicator. Focus for improvements should be especially directed to: EC4-6; EN18, 20, 21 and 34; LA2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 11, 12, 14; SO3-8, 11; PR1-5, 7-9; HR3, 8-10.

JEAM Volume 9, Issue 4

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Effectiveness of Tending Activities in Broadleaved Forests

pp. 319-330 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.12.001

Maria Martynova, Rida Sultanova, Liubov Blonskaya, Aydar Gabdelkhakov, Elza Volkova, Georgiy Odintsov

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Abstract

The aim of the study is to assess the response of plantations in general and individual trees to thinnings of different intensity. The research target is forests located on the forestry fund lands of the Bashkortostan Republic. The research is based on the method of test areas used in complete enumeration and selection of sample trees of Tilia cordata Mill. There was conducted an analysis of variability of morphological characteristics of lime trees after thinnings of different intensity in young stands (from 50 to 75%). After cleaning from 1 to 10 shoots were onmother stumps. The analysis showed that thinnings have a direct impact on formation of trunks and crowns of target trees: low intensity thinning provides a strong variation (the crown length – 21.2%, the crown projection diameter – 37.9%), while high intensity cutting brings in less change (the crown length – 11.7%, the crown projection diameter– 18.0%). The felling intensity influenced the nature of flowering and distribution of flowers: on the plot with an intensity of 75% and 1 shoot on the stump, there is the highest occurrence of flowering trees – 20.8%; while on the plot after thinning with 50% intensity and an average number of 10 shoots on the stump, 55.3% of trees didn’t bloom. In general, there are 4.2-20.8% trees with very good flowering and uniform arrangement of flowers throughout the crown. Studies have found that thinning of young stands in aspen forests, located close to beekeeping apiaries, makes it possible to restock the plots with nectar plantations of predominantly small-leaved lime trees.

Curtailing Pollution due to Processes on Plastic Disposal

pp. 331-342 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.12.002

Nita H. Shah, Ekta N. Jayswal, Ankush H. Suthar

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Abstract

Though the government has ruled “Say No to Plastic”, plastic usage is increasing day by day. It is observed since last three decades that each process of plastic creates pollution affecting degradation of environmental resources like air, soil and water. The proposed mathematical model contains these three pollutions with its issues having a dynamical system of nonlinear differential equations. Feasible region contains three equilibrium points pollution-free, water-pollution free and optimum issue point. Basic reproduction number and center manifold theory is used for analyzing the local stability of a model. Castillo-Chavez theory with detailed computation has been used to check global dynamical behavior of equilibrium points and also gives the existence of backward bifurcation of plastic usage. To optimize the pollution, optimal control has been applied to the system. Graphical analysis is carried out.

Role of Age-selective Harvesting in a Delayed Predator- prey Model together with Fear and Additional Food

pp. 343-375 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.12.003

Ashok Mondal, A. K. Pal, G. P. Samanta

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Abstract

In this paper, we have discussed the dynamical behaviour of a delayed induced harvested predator-prey model incorporating both effects of fear (felt by prey) and additional food (provided to the predator). Hence we have considered selective harvesting terms in both the species that provides some fixed elapsed time to prey and predator population before they are harvested. Ecologically, harvesting of population are restrained below certain age to protect juvenile population. Also the reproduction of prey population can be greatly hindered due to the influence of fear effect. However, to increase the growth rate of predator and to decrease the predatory attack rate on the prey population, it is necessary to incorporate additional food to the predator for maintaining ecological balance. Consideration of ageselective harvesting together with fear effect and additional food compel the proposed system to exhibit Hopf-bifurcation around the coexistence equilibrium point. For better ecological community management, our study reveals the fact that harvesting delay and harvesting intensities should be maintained. Numerical simulations have been performed to validate the analytical findings.

Increasing the Strength Properties in weak Soil Using Microbial Techniques

pp. 377-389 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.12.004

Pa. Suriya, S.P. Sangeetha

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Abstract

In Microbial-Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) has been introduced in the field of ground improvement. The applications of this method shows potential in several fields like improvement of strength and durability of concrete, bricks, sand permeability, soil strength etc., and various works are being conducted on these fields in the current scenario. To promote the engineering properties of the material after MICP treatment, need to have study the relevant crystal mineralization process and analyses the influences on the soil engineering properties. The main aim of this paper is to analyses the behavior of various bio geo chemical processes between the soil mineralogy, solid soil grains, water or fluid, and gases in the voids, beneath the soil surface after employing microbes as strengthening consultant. Geotechnical applications currently being inquired which includes the process of cementation of sands, to enhance bearing capacity and liquefaction resistance, Carbon sequestration, erosion control of soil, controlling the groundwater flow, and remediation of soil and groundwater impacted by metals and radio-nuclides.

Accumulation of Heavy Metals in Soil and Cultivated Crops

pp. 391-402 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.12.005

Zhangeldi N. Kurganbekov, Aspondiyar A. Utebayev, VladimirN. Domatskiy, Zhazira S. Mukataeva, Dinara Sh. Zhetpisbay

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Abstract

A modern understanding of crop growth productivity allows us to expand our ecological culture using the land fund. However, the impact of industrial enterprises determines the structural content and increase of soil pollution level. The relevance of this study is determined by the fact that the formation of measures that would contribute to reducing soil pollution is currently based not only on the economic assessment of measures, but also on reducing the allowable impact on environmental metabolism and maintaining balance in the circulation of substances. The novelty of the study is determined by the need to develop a model that takes into account the capabilities of modern biological agents to form complex chemical complexes that can reduce the concentration of heavy metals. The authors propose a model that can provide a solution to the problems of the separation of heavy metals with the formation of a complex of a biologically utilizable type. The authors determine the accumulation complexes, their chemical composition and, if necessary, the reagents used. The practical significance of the study is formed due to the strategic development of the chemical complex. In this vein, considered the possibility of using chemical compounds that can be used as producers for the formation of a new fertile layer after the accumulation of heavy metals in the skeletal structure of plants.

Effect of Fear on Interacting Species Dynamics with Nonlinear Predator Harvesting

pp. 403-427 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.12.006

Lakshmi Narayan Guin, Ayantika Mapa, Santabrata Chakravarty

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Abstract

The present pursuit concerns itself with an updated real predator-prey system based on a fear factor induced by interacting species with nonlinear predator harvesting unlike constant or linear harvesting. The diversification of system parameters gives rise to different categories of system dynamics. The system under consideration does experience bifurcation (saddle-node, transcritical and Hopf-Andronov) about the co-existence equilibrium position with respect to the choice of fear factor or nonlinear harvesting factor as a parameter of significance. The direction of the Hopf bifurcation together with the stability of the bifurcating periodic solutions are perceived through an explicit algorithm duly established by making use of the normal form and central manifold theory. The findings of the present investigation reveal that the fear factor or nonlinear harvesting factor bears the potential to influence the dynamical scenario of the interacting species remarkably.

Effects of the Environmental Strategy and Management Control System Package on Managerial Performance

pp. 429-443 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2021.12.007

Ilse M. Beuren, Patricia V. C. Vaz

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Abstract

This study examines the effects of the environmental strategy and theManagement Control System (MCS) Package on management performance in Brazilian companies. A questionnaire prepared by Roetzel et al (2014) was applied to the companies listed as the 150 best companies to work in Brazil, and the sample consists of 73 respondents. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the hypotheses. The environmental strategy positively influences theMCS Package. TheMCS Package positively influences managerial performance. It was also found that cybernetic and cultural controls are the package’s most comprehensive elements of MCS, a result that is consistent with Roetzel et al (2014), however, in the Brazilian scenario, were the administrative controls and not the remuneration and rewards that demonstrated less important role. The analysis of the interaction of these elements can instigate managers as to the importance of studying environmental issues in the Brazilian scenario, in order to broaden the discussion on an integrated environmental policy. Analysis of the effects of the environmental strategy and the MCS Package on management performance contribute to the consolidation of theoretical principles and can be essential for proposing sustainable development policies. Although these interactions were tested in the study by Roetzel et al (2014), the perception of managers may differ in contexts with different environmental management strategies.

JEAM Volume 10, Issue 1

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Challenges and Opportunities of Cleaner Production on Sustainable Development

pp. 1-5 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.03.001

Biagio F. Giannetti, Feni Agostinho, Cec´ılia M.V.B. Almeida, Zhifeng Yang, Gengyuan Liu, Linda Hancock

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Abstract

The current world environmental challenges claim for actions towards a sustainable development. Humans demand huge amount of resources to support the chosen development pattern, and returns concentrated humanwaste to be diluted by nature, making this relationship unbalanced. This situation becomes worse when the resources extracted are beyond their own natural capacity of replenishment, which jeopardizes the resources availability and all social related issues as described by the 17 sustainable development goals. There is a common sense about the need of rethinking about the world we want for today and future generations, and for this task, looking for more sustainable production systems is an important step to feed policy makers with reliable scientific data to support better-oriented public policies. This special issue brings research show cases focused on themes discussed during the 8th and 9th International Workshop Advances in Cleaner Production, including cleaner production technologies, resources efficiency, environmental management, ecological modeling and business sustainability report. The main goal of this paper collection is to collaborate for the advances of cleaner production for the most different scales as an important approach to achieve the needed sustainable development.

Exact solutions involving two Jacobi elliptic functions for general Boussinesq equation

pp. 7-17 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.03.002

S. P. Joseph

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Abstract

In this paper, several new exact traveling wave solutions for a general Boussinesq equation are derived. Boussinesq equation is a fourth order nonlinear partial differential equation which is used to study dynamics of water waves in fluid dynamics and other physical phenomena such as the dynamics of thin inviscid layers, non-linear lattice waves and vibration in nonlinear strings. We derive all the exact solutions which are the linear combinations of square of two Jacobi elliptic functions and a constant term. Since the computations are much more involved, required solutions are obtained using computer algebra system.

Existence and Uniqueness of climate-based periodic Chikungunya fractional order model with incubation period

pp. 19-30 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.03.003

J. Dianavinnarasi, J.Jency Mariyal†, A. Pratap

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Abstract

Chikungunya fever is caused by CHIKV, which uses the Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti mosquito population as a vector. According to WHO, mosquito-borne diseases cause millions of deaths. In this paper, the existence and uniqueness results of the temperature dependent Chikungunya virus dynamical model using fractional calculus and some fixed point theorems are derived. The Caputo-Fabrizio operator without singular kernel is used to obtain the solution of the proposed model.

Solving Nonlinear Inventory Model for Deteriorating Items using Fractional Differential Method

pp. 31-38 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.03.004

M.V. Jeyanthi, P.S. Sheik Uduman, Dowlath Fathima

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Abstract

In this paper, a nonlinear inventory model with demand as a derivative of time is developed for deteriorating items with no shortages are allowed. The model is solved initially by using Differential Transform Method (DTM) and further, the model is modified to Caputo Derivative Fractional Order (CDFO) and solved by Homotopy Perturbation Method with triangular fuzzy initial conditions. The results for both models in terms of nonlinearity of DTM and HPM are analyzed and compared numerically.

Assessment of Urban Plantations Spatial-Temporal Structure

pp. 39-47 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.03.005

Maria Martynova

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Abstract

The spatial-temporal distribution of vegetation within an urban environment is known as ``green space'' and is a fundamental component of an urban environment. The study aims to assess the spatial-temporal structure of plantations in Ufa, including using satellite images. The studies covered urban forests, plantations of general use in Ufa. It has been determined that most of the Ufa urban forestry territory is occupied by deciduous plantations - 90.6{\%} of the forested area, conifers - 4.2{\%}. The plantations of Ufa's common areas in 2019 amounted to 1,236.5 hectares, of which parks prevail - 66.6{\%}. The location of plantings of common areas in the city's districts is uneven: objects are most widespread in the Kirovsky district (37.7{\%}). The correlation dependence between green spaces and the number of residents by administrative districts was r = 0.43 $\pm $ 0.03. The increase in the area of plantations of common areas is confirmed by the analysis of the land area by types of Ufa's underlying surface for 1987-2018, carried out based on the calculation of the ARVI vegetation index based on Landsat-5 and Landsat-8 satellite images. A significant increase in the area occupied by tree and shrub vegetation + 10,875.2 hectares was revealed, with a reduction in the surface type ``open soil'' - -2,666.07 hectares and ``without vegetation'' - -1,393.83 hectares ($t _{calc.} = - 0.002$; $t _{0.05 tab.} = 2.306$). The transformation of the urban area over 30 years is due to increased green spaces in common areas and the construction of roads, buildings, and structures.

Sustainability with a Cost Perspective – Driving the Industry to Embrace Sustainable Thinking Open Access

pp. 49-72 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.03.006

Windmark Christina, Anna Ericson Oberg, Mats Winroth, Peter Almstrom, Martin Kurdve, Carin Andersson

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Abstract

Previous research has shown that sustainable improvements need incentives to carry them through. An assumption is that it may be easier to incorporate sustainable thinking in an organization if the organization understands which actions it is that are having a positive effect on sustainability and on tangible costs. This paper aims to highlight the synergy effects that occur in the intersection between production costs, performance and sustainable improvements and to present a possible way of modelling these effects. The study has used three methods of analysis: literature review, a web survey sent to representatives in the Swedish manufacturing industry, and economic simulations using a case study. The literature review and the survey are used to identify important costs and incentives for sustainable improvements. The study is limited to the production shop floor level, incorporating only aspects directly affecting, and affected by manufacturing operations.

This paper takes a holistic approach to sustainability drivers, cost drivers in industry, and economic simulations, creating an overall insight. From the literature review and the survey, intersections between sustainability measures and cost drivers could be found in the areas of site-occupancy area/floor space, resource consumption, and efficiency. Apart from laws and regulations, economic aspects and management attention are perceived as the most important drivers, but also obstacles for sustainability improvements. The study aims to support industry to embrace sustainable thinking, presenting a quantitative method to visualize the synergy effects of sustainability and measurable improvements from production development, using performance measurements when estimating manufacturing costs. The possibility to connect manufacturing cost with environmental impact, through use of performance parameters is demonstrated in a case study; where the significant environmental and economic impact of rejections is analyzed for the machining of steel frames.

Failure Mode and Effect Analysis and Analytic Hierarchical Process Applied for Reduction of Environmental Risk in Supplier Selection to Thermoplastic Industry

pp. 73-89 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.03.007

Flavia Cristina da Silva, Fabio Ytoshi Shibao, Andre Felipe Henriques Librantz, Geraldo Cardoso de Oliveira Neto, Lincoln Nagaki

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Abstract

Risk management has become a key issue for managing the green supply chain due to fact that the multi-risk and human judgment-based factors always involve subjectivity and ambiguity. Thus, Failure Mode Effects Analysis combined to Analytic Hierarchical Process was proposed for risk reduction in the selection process of suppliers of the green supply chain, providing flexibility and robustness in decision-making process. The tool was applied in the selection of flexographic solvent suppliers in an industry of the thermoplastic components segment and cold starting subsystems for the automotive industry, offering the opportunities for improvement in the monitoring supplier’s performance.

Life Cycle Assessment and Circular Economy: A Case Study of a Photovoltaic Solar Panel in Brazil

pp. 91-111 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.03.008

Marcell M. C. Maceno, Tha´ısa L. Pilz, Daniel R. Oliveira

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Abstract

In Different from the linear economy, which traditionally considers any waste as garbage, the circular economy recognize waste as a valuable material potentially useful as a resource. This thinking is the main principle of the Circular Economy, a production model that attempts to counterbalance the traditional linear economy recommending a more sustainable model. Thus, we aim to evaluate the circularity, using Circular Economy Toolkit, Circular Economy Indicator Prototype, and Material Circularity Indicator and calculate the environmental impact through the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for a 1st Generation Photovoltaic Solar Panel (PSP) manufactured in Brazil. For applying the three CE tools and the LCA, the PSP composition was raised weighing the product parts. Besides this, we used a technical data sheet of the manufacturer to complement the data. In this context, a Brazilian scenario was elaborated in which all raw materials for the PSP assembly were virgin materials. For the PSP destination parts, 83% was recycled, and 17% was sent to landfills. The Circular Economy Toolkit results indicated a great potential for improvement in the preservation or repair, in the reform or remanufacturing, and in developing the product as a service. For the Circular Economy Indicator Prototype and Material Circularity Indicator, the circularity percentage obtained for each tool was 57.2% and 44.32%, respectively. Finally, the LCA has shown a positive environmental impact due to the generation of localized energy. This result is higher than the negative impact of the assembly and destination processes. In conclusion, LCA proved to be an essential technique to guide the actions toward a circular economy since the same product can simultaneously present excellent environmental performance results and a low degree of circularity.

JEAM Volume 10, Issue 2

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Participatory Management Model for Sustainability of Wetlands: Structural Model Analysis

pp. 113-126 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.06.001

Roya Akbari, Seyed Mehdi Mirdamadi, Seyed Jamal Farajollah Hosseini, Farhad Lashgarara

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Abstract

Wetlands are indispensable ecosystems and play a crucial role in the stability of their periphery ecosystems. However, wetlands need to be managed in a sustainable way to ensure that not only the present but also the future benefits continue to accrue. As a result, this study proposes and validates a participatory pattern of sustainability management for important saline wetlands in Iran at the plain of Masileh in Qom province. The sample of the study was 251 experts in the field, recruited to answer a questionnaire related to participatory management and the related factors. Data analysis in this study was performed through structural equation modeling using LISREL software. The results showed that economic, environmental, and socio-cultural mechanisms have significant and positive effects on participatory management of wetlands. Moreover, beneficiaries related factors such as consultation, motivation, relationships, and rights have significant and positive effects on the social, environmental, and economic mechanisms and consequently on participatory management of the wetlands under study. In conclusion, this study’s findings suggest that policymakers and related parties should pay more attention to the participatory model for the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands ecosystems.

Tornado Property Loss Scale: Up to $8 Billion by 2025: Classification, Dependence, and Prediction of Tornado Events in the U.S.

pp. 127-142 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.06.002

Thilini Mahanama, Dimitri Volchenkov

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Abstract

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that the U.S. annually sustains about 1,300 tornadoes. Currently, the Enhanced Fujita scale is used to categorize the severity of a tornado event based on a wind speed estimate. We propose the new Tornado Property Loss scale (TPL-Scale) to classify tornadoes based on associated damage costs. The dependence between the tornado affected area and the associated property losses vary strongly over time and location. The overall tornado damage costs forecasted by a trained long short-term memory network trained on historical data might reach $8 billion over the next five years although no systematic increase in the number and cost of disasters is observed over time.

Sustainable Ground Improvement through Microbial Induced Calcium Precipitation – A Review

pp. 143-155 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.06.003

Pa. Suriya, S.P. Sangeetha

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Abstract

Microbial induced calcium precipitation (MICP) is one of the important emerging techniques in ground improvement. This technique is mainly based on Bio mineralization, which is the process of producing minerals (calcium carbonate) by living organisms called microbes. This technique is widely used in various fields such as biotechnology, geo technology, and also in paleo biology. Apart from the above applications, it is also used to remove the heavy metals, radio nucleotide, and atmospheric carbon dioxide sequestration. This paper reviews the approaches of various researchers on this technology applied for different types of soil such as clayey, silty soil, sandy soil and analyzed their optimum conditions to achieve their maximum shear strength. As well as, it is also discussing about the various influencing factors of microbial induced calcite precipitation like calcium concentration, dissolved matters of inorganic carbon concentration, pH of bacterial solution, and nucleation sites availability predominantly. As revealed from the literature reviewed the importance of the processing of bacteria at the optimum condition to adopt sustainable soil stabilization and various precipitations of polymorphs forms were effectively discussed. Though application of MICP and efficiency are required more to elevate in this technique for the field scale.

Eco-affecting Reporting Practices of Publicly Traded Engineering Companies in Bangladesh

pp. 157-175 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.06.004

S. M. Faridul Islam, Syed Zabid Hossain

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Abstract

Based on corporate characteristics, this study explored the extent and nature of eco-affecting information reporting practices of publicly listed engineering companies in the context of an emerging economy. Data collected from annual reports of the purposively selected companies in the ‘Engineering Sector’ of Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) applying a self-developed reporting index consisted of 38 reporting items. The study found that the average eco-affecting information disclosed by the sample firms was only 12.81% of the disclosure checklist, and that was descriptive in nature. The highest disclosed issue was environmental concern and policies (25%), while the lowest was environmental performance (3.81%). The most revealing is that 13.33% of the sample companies did not disclose any eco-affecting information in their annual reports. The study found that firms’ visibility proxied by their total assets showed a significant positive effect on the extent of eco-affecting information disclosure. Contrarily, business experience proxied by firms’ age showed a negative impact on eco-affecting information disclosure. Other explanatory variables, viz., firm category, leverage, profitability, and ownership stake of the state have an insignificant effect on eco-affecting information disclosure. The findings of this paper will help the policymakers and regulators frame environmental policies and regulations -considering the potential impact of different corporate characteristics-related explanatory variables on environmental reporting. The study is unique as the sample has accepted a specific manufacturing industry instead of mixing industry categories. The study considered ‘Company Category’ as an explanatory variable for the first time. Besides, the study has included two new disclosure items, viz. environmental slogan/dialogue and rainwater harvesting (RWH), which have been missing in prior literature.

Simulation-Optimization Model for Dynamic and Sustainable Management of the Water Transfer Between two Interconnected Reservoirs: Case Study in Morocco

pp. 177-190 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.06.005

Oussama Laassilia, Driss Ouazar, Ahmed Bouziane, Moulay Driss Hasnaoui

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Abstract

Interbasin Water Transfer (IBWT) is an efficient solution to balance the unequal temporal and spatial distribution of water resources, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. In this regard, this paper proposes a Simulation-Optimization model for reliability-based optimal sizing, operation, and water allocation of the Water Highway Project (WHP) in Morocco. Several scenarios were tested taking into account the impact of climate change on water resources both in the donor and the recipient basins. The results indicate that the increase in the transfer flow from the donor basin, as well as the increase in the storage capacity of the recipient reservoir, makes it possible to satisfy the water needs and develop the agricultural sector of the receiving region. This work has made it possible to maximize the profits of the WHP by valorizing the surplus water from the donor basin (Sebou) to meet the water needs of the receiving one (Bouregreg).

Biogenic and Toxic Elements in Mountain Tundra Soils of the Teletskoye Lake Basin (Altai Mountains)

pp. 191-201 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.06.006

Olga A. Elchininova, Olga V. Kuznetsova, Tamara A. Rozhdestvenskaya, Maria G. Sukhova, Marina I. Kaiser

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Abstract

Anthropogenic load leads to a negative impact on natural ecosystems. The behaviour of chemical elements in the natural environment depends on their quantity, as well as the intensity of the impact. Therefore, the main purpose of the study is to analyse biogenic and toxic elements in mountain tundra soils of the Teletskoye Lake basin (Altai Mountains). The study identified the most characteristic properties of mountain tundra soils: a strong degraded profile, the presence of icy permafrost, a significant accumulation of low-mineralised, high-ash organic matter of a fulvate nature in organogenic horizons, the absence of signs of podzolisation and gleying, a sub-acidic and acidic reaction of the environment, a relatively high absorption capacity. A negative correlation is found to be moderate between the reaction of the medium and the gross content of manganese, iron, zinc, and strong for copper. A positive moderate dependencewith the humus content was found only for the total content of manganese and zinc, a positive strong one with the content of fine particles for the total content of iron and zinc. The average contents of biogenic and toxic elements in mountain tundra soils are within the bulk earth values and do not exceed the standardised indicators.

Laser Engraving for product traceability: Advances toward sustainable manufacturing

pp. 203-214 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.06.007

C.O. Lanzilotti, L.F.R. Pinto

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Abstract

Manufacturing systems have embedded the quality control of parts in process, which requires the tracking of components. The development of equipment for marking systems has enhanced the identification of parts in production lines, which increases data reliability. This paper aims to present a laser engraving system implementation in the machining process, in replacing the self-adhesive label for parts identification. The new system consists of the laser engraving machine, database and a programmable logic controller. The case study shows the technical analysis and the economic, environmental and social assessment. The results with fiber laser on the cast iron surface were high contrasts, permanent and speed marking. The investment was US$64,500.00 and the payback was within thirteen months. The decrease of the risk priority score from 26 to 7 indicated better ergonomic condition. The environmental impact was reduced by the elimination of chemical products.

JEAM Volume 10, Issue 3

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Natural Capital, Ecosystem Services, and Environmental Accounting

pp. 215-217 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.09.001

Fausto Manes, Elvira Buonocore, Alessandro Paletto, Pier Paolo Franzese

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Abstract

Natural capital stocks generate ecosystem services flows that are directly used or enjoyed by people, providing benefits to human well-being. Anthropogenic pressures on natural ecosystems cause biodiversity loss and, in turn, affect the capability of natural ecosystems to provide flows of good and services to humans. Environmental accounting represents a useful tool to assess the value of ecosystem goods and services, also providing useful information to local managers and policy makers in charge of implementing management and policy strategies oriented to the sustainable use of natural resources. Given this premise, this special issue includes theoretical, methodological, and applied papers focusing on natural capital, ecosystem services, and environmental accounting.

Demand Analysis on Forest-based Recreational Activities

pp. 219-236 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.09.002

Paletto Alessandro, Fagarazzi Claudio, Grilli Gianluca, Lorenzini Leonardo, De Meo Isabella

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Abstract

The nature-based recreational activities can be considered one of the most important cultural ecosystem services provided by forests. They provide benefits to local economy, human health and well-being reducing depression and mental illnesses risk and increasing social interactions. The aim of the present study is to assess the socio-economic importance of forest-based recreational activities using the travel cost demand analysis. The study was implemented in a black pine forest in Italy (Pratomagno forest) characterized by a multifunctional forest role and a diversified recreational attendance. The study on forest-based recreational activities was organized in four steps: development and pre-testing of a questionnaire; identification of the sample of visitors; administration of the questionnaire to the visitors; data processing. The results show that the most important forest-based recreational activity carried out by visitors is relaxing in the nature, followed by hiking and picnicking. The occasional visitors prefer more passive recreational activities (relaxing in the nature and picnicking), while regular and loyal visitors prefer more active recreational activities (hiking, mountain biking, picking non-wood forest products). A consumer surplus in the range between 39 and 44 \EUR\ per visit was estimated based on the model (Poisson and Negative binomial model), corresponding to 60.5-68.3~\EUR\ per hectare. The results show that nature-based recreational activities can generate positive direct and indirect benefits for forest managers and local people. The local decision makers should act on forest stand characteristics with the aim of increasing the recreational attractiveness and the consequent economic benefits.

Different Métiers Affect Fish Catches Accounting in Marine Protected Areas: A Pilot Investigation Method

pp. 237-252 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.09.003

L. Appolloni, D. Ciorciaro, F. Di Stefano, L. Donnarumma, F. Ferrigno, C. Iacono, A. Miccio, F. Rendina, R. Sandulli, G.F. Russo

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Abstract

The present investigation is a pilot study, carried out in a single season, aiming to account for the effects of local Small-Scale Fishery (SSF) m\'{e}tiers on actual catches, as recommended by the Ecosystem Based Management. According to local m\'{e}tiers, 3 trammel nets (GTR) and 3 longlines (LLS) were hauled for 8 hours in 4 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) of Campania Region (central Tyrrhenian Sea): Regno di Nettuno (RN) and Punta Campanella (PC), in the northernmost Gulf of Naples, Santa Maria di Castellabate (SMC) and Costa degli Infreschi e della Masseta (CI), along the southernmost coasts of Cilento National Park. PERMANOVA analyses were performed to assess differences in GTR and LLS catches among MPAs; CAP analyses were used to assess similarities among MPAs catches; PERMDISP analyses were performed to verify small scale data homogeneity and comparability; ABCurves were used to assess MPAs fish assemblages quality status. Results show that GTR catches are higher than those of LLS in terms of fish diversity, abundance and biomass. Instead, LLS catches are more selective for a few target species and for larger specimens. PERMANOVA results highlight significant differences of both GTR and LLS data among MPAs, but pair-wise test indicates that LLS catches are more affected by local m\'{e}tiers linked to MPAs environmental characteristics. CAP analyses show that GTR species are coherently correlated with northernmost and southernmost MPAs while, species from LLS are correlated with the morphological characteristics (steep or flat bottoms) of the MPAs. PERMDISP reveals homogeneity among GTR data but not among LLS ones. ABCurves evidence that GTR, due to its low selectivity, is a suitable gear to monitoring MPAs fish assemblage. On the contrary, the high selective of LLS makes it an effective gear to provide data about the main target species of local m\'{e}tiers useful to define more effective MPA management measures.

Integrated Environmental Accounting for assessing the Value for Money in Marine Protected Areas: the case of Tremiti Islands (Italy)

pp. 253-267 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.09.004

Francesca Visintin, Elisa Tomasinsig, Maurizio Spoto, Francesco Marangon, Francesco Mastrototaro, Giovanni Chimienti, Federica Montesanto, Stefania Troiano

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Abstract

The paper focuses on the integrated environmental accounting model called ``eValue'' developed for protected areas and applied in the research programme coordinated by the Italian Ministry of Environment aiming to implement an environmental accounting system for the Italian Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). eValue aimed to calculate the economic value of Protected Areas adopting a Cost-Benefit Analysis approach. Financial accounting based on costs and revenues was integrated with environmental accounting, which reflected not only environmental costs but also environmental revenues, i.e. environmental benefits. Environmental costs assessed the impacts related to human activities in the MPA and environmental benefits assessed ecosystem services. The overall annual flow account accounted for costs and benefits, both economic and environmental, and the difference represented the value produced (or consumed) by the MPA. The eValue model was applied in the Tremiti Islands MPA. eValue demonstrated that the annual benefits-costs ratio reaches 2.1. In addition, the ratio between the net benefit and the public funding is 5.0 completely covering the amount of public transfers and thus summarizing the overall value for money of the MPA. Finally, the outcomes of the project are functional to the Mapping and Assessment of Ecosystem Services initiative carried out by the European Union.

The Impact of Cattle Grazing on Recreational Ecosystem Services in a Park Area: a Gray Water Footprint Assessment

pp. 269-278 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.09.005

V. Allocca, E. Marzano, M. Tramontano, F. Celico

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Abstract

In park areas (PAs), restrictions on anthropogenic activities are often established to achieve the long-term conservation of nature and its associated ecosystem services and cultural values. The economic literature on freshwater ecosystem services has identified the depletion of aquatic ecosystem quality as a crucial issue, suggesting appropriate methods to evaluate this degradation in monetary terms. An alternative approach is water footprint accounting, which is employed in this study to evaluate scarcity and quality issues originating from groundwater depletion in a dynamic setting. In this study, we evaluate the impact of cattle grazing on groundwater-related ecosystem services in a karst environment located within the Monti Picentini Regional Park, located in the Campania region in southern Italy. In so doing, we guide policy makers to achieve sustainable environmental and socioeconomic management decisions for the target ecosystem to balance the competitive uses of freshwater ecosystem services in the Monti Picentini Park Area.

Reporting Marine Microplastics Data: the Need for a Standardized Protocol

pp. 279-297 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.09.006

Valentina H. Pauna, Elvira Buonocore, Monia Renzi, Giovanni Fulvio Russo, Pier Paolo Franzese

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Abstract

Marine microplastics have become an issue of great concern at the global level. The attention towards the issue of marine microplastics, highly recognized by international policy and scientific research, has increased considerably over the last decades. At the European level, several initiatives have been promoted addressing the reduction of plastic pollution as a high priority target, among which the Marine Strategy Framework Objective (D10) and the European Strategy for Plastics in a Circular Economy. In addition, researchers have explored many strategies to optimize the detection and monitoring of microplastics in sediments, seawater, and organisms and to effectively demonstrate their potential ecological harm. However, since pollution dynamics, the functioning of natural ecosystems, and their relationships are very complex, there still lacks a comprehensive understanding of the impacts of microplastics on marine ecosystems. This lack of knowledge may impact the effectiveness of decision-making processes in terms of plastic reduction and waste management. In this study, we present the results of a literature review which focuses on particularly impactful marine microplastic methodological and analytical articles from 2004 to 2017 to identify possible gaps or inconsistencies in the reported data. Based on this review, a framework for a general reporting protocol (GRP) is outlined to encourage increased collaborative research efforts to harmonize the reporting of microplastics data in scientific studies. The proposed GRP outline could be useful in addressing data needs for effective ecological risk assessment.

Oil Extraction from Macrophytes: Effect of Environmental Factors on Efficiency and Oil Quality in Coastal Lagoon

pp. 299-303 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.09.007

Monia Renzi, Tommaso Scirocco, Lucrezia Cilenti, Simone Bastianoni, Antonietta Specchiulli

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Abstract

Macrophytes represent interesting matrices for oil extraction with biodiesel production purposes, particularly in eutrophic coastal lagoons. This short note reported results on bio-oil extraction efficiency in two different species of macrophytes in a Mediterranean lagoon (Lesina lagoon, south-eastern Italy), by testing effects of different factors (year, season, species of macrophytes) on oil production and oil quality. Extracted total oils values ranged from 0.65 \% (Chara spp.) to 2.35 \% (Chaetomorpha linum) and a significant difference ($p<0.01$) between the two species was reported in relation to the variability of diene production with seasons. Compared to the available literature, higher oil extraction efficiencies are reported in this paper for the species C. linum, mainly due to the pressure optimization before extractions.

Chitosan as Potential De-coloring Agent for Synthetic and Textile Industrial Wastewater

pp. 305-319 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.09.008

Ibrahim Abdelfattah, A. M. El-Shamy

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Abstract

In today's ages, the chitosan biopolymer has ample applications in drinking and wastewater treatment, which is the reason for its large occurrence and fair cost. The potential adsorbent properties are back to its structure since, in addition to its porosity effect, it contains --NH${}_{2}$ and -OH${}^{-}$ groups. In this analysis, the powdered chitosan biopolymer is used as an adsorbent for the abstraction of Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBB-R). Many variables are studied to enhance the progression of adsorption such as adsorbent dose, pH, interaction time, initial concentration of adsorbents. In addition, the kinetic model's several adsorption isotherms are added to highlight the mechanism and the process of adsorption. Additionally, the degradation efficiency of the actual wastewater treated and untreated was achieved. Finally, to protect the municipal networks, the corrosion of steel pipeline was subjected to evaluation for untreated and treated wastewater to enhance their inhibition of the corrosion process.

Analysis of Pollutant Transport around a Circular Cylinder in Subcritical Regime Using Lagrangian Coherent Structures

pp. 321-333 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.09.009

Xinyao Zheng, Zhizhe Chen, Zhiyu Chen, Lianjie Chai, Jiazhong Zhang

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Abstract

Lagrangian coherence structures (LCSs) are introduced to study the pollutant transport process in detail, more powerful than traditional Eulerian method in describing the mass transport in transient flow. First, pollutant transport in air around a circular cylinder in the subcritical regime with Reynolds number of 140000 is numerically simulated using DES Turbulence Model. Then, the complex turbulent flow and the accompanying transport process in the cylinder wake are revealed from Lagrangian viewpoint, through the analysis of LCSs which are extracted utilizing the ridges in the finite-time Lyapunov exponent fields. Further, a comparison between flow in the laminar and subcritical regime is carried out, and the factors for the intense mixing and quasi-periodical characteristic of the subcritical regime are discovered. Finally, based on lobe dynamics, the flow field is partitioned into several regions with different physical properties, so the mass and energy transport and mixing between those regions can be precisely described and captured. The results show the application of LCSs in uncovering the structures of complex turbulent flow in environmental problems, as well as the potential of LCSs to quantitatively analyze the pollutant transport process, could provide an efficient way for the optimal control of the pollutant.

JEAM Volume 10, Issue 4

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Does Carbon Performance and Green Investment Affect Carbon Emissions Disclosure?

pp. 335-344 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.12.001

Daniel T H Manurung, Nurul Hidayah, Erna Setiany, Komang Adi Kurniawan Saputra, Dini Wahjoe Hapsari

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Abstract

The importance of corporate governance is to direct the company's management professionally and responsibly, including the issue of carbon emissions. This study was conducted to achieve objectives related to the effects of Corporate Governance on the company's carbon emission disclosures. The research was conducted on 40 non-financial companies in 2015-2019. Company data is obtained from the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The study used purposive sampling, an analytical tool that used multiple linear regression. The study results show that companies that have information about, Corporate Governance: Board Independence and Board Committee will be able to disclose carbon emissions. This research implies that the company tends to disclose carbon emissions produced by the company so that government policy that lasts at the same time is needed to improve disclosure compliance.

Study on Transports of Atmospheric Pollutants under Global Wind by Dynamical System Approach

pp. 345-360 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.12.002

Wei Wang, Jiazhong Zhang, Zhihui Li, Chunxue Wang, Dalei Wang

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Abstract

The transport of atmospheric pollutants under global wind is analyzed from viewpoint of dynamical system, with the Lagrangian coherent structures (LCSs) extracted from the wind field. First, the distribution of global atmospheric pollutants is presented using the data of inhalable particulate matters and dust aerosols. Then, the transports of pollutants are analyzed using hyperbolic LCSs extracted from the global wind field, with a detailed analysis of the North Atlantic region. Finally, the formation and evolution of vortices in the process of pollutants transport are analyzed further by Lagrangian-averaged vorticity deviation (LAVD) method. It can be concluded that the transport of pollutants is closely related to the hyperbolic LCSs in the wind field. Importantly, these structures as transport barriers can act as the transport channels of particulate matters, and one conceptual design to control atmospheric pollutants efficiently could be provided tentatively, based on studies presented.

Environmental Legislation of Kazakhstan: Achievements, Problems and Trends

pp. 361-374 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.12.003

Zhanna A. Khamzina, Yermek A. Buribayev, Kuralay Turlykhankyzy, Anarkhan R. Kuttygalieva, Zulfiya T. Kubeyeva

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Abstract

This paper examines the state of Kazakhstan's environmental legislation after nearly 30 years of development as an independent state. The state of ecological systems is directly related to production and economic activities, as well as the state policy in the field of environmental protection. The main environmental problems of Kazakhstan are: the residence of a significant part of the population in the area of direct influence of harmful production factors, the most influential of which are emissions of pollutants into the air, uneven distribution of fresh water across regions, increase in the volume of production and consumption waste. The approximation of Kazakhstan's legislation to universal environmental protection standards is difficult, including in terms of the impact of sustainable development goals on the context of environmental legislation. The paper explores the areas in which environmental regulations need to be revised and implemented through adequate legal mechanisms. This document facilitates discussions on improving environmental legal norms in national legislation.

An Assessment of Municipal Solid Waste Management in Bengaluru: A Case Study

pp. 375-390 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.12.004

Ritanjali Majhi, Aves Muhammad

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Abstract

The challenges of solid waste are increasing every day as the population in the urban areas is increasing at a rapid pace. The challenge of solid waste such as landfilling is a major issue that requires urgent attention as it degrades the environment and causes adverse health hazards. The major legislation frameworks, policies, scientific handling related to municipal solid waste management (MSWM), and its effective implementation are essential to improve the state of MSWM. In this paper, various parameters of MSWM are evaluated along with the review of MSW generation, collection, characterization of solid waste, treatment, and disposal ways practised in Bengaluru. This paper helps in understanding the scenario of solid waste in Bengaluru, the challenges it faces, and the opportunities it offers. Various issues like public-private partnerships, decentralization, rag-pickers role, local communities' initiatives, etc. are discussed. The study concludes that it is the need of the hour to understand the various technological solutions that need to be implemented along with establishing recycling plants, bio-digesters, and other solutions that are presented in this paper could help in generating energy and other resources, and improve the scenario of solid waste in the city.

Efficient Grain Production in the Context of Digital Agricultural Technologies

pp. 391-398 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.12.005

Asiya Subaeva, Elena Khudyakova, Natalia Zaruk, Marina Stepantsevich, Mikhail Gorbachev

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Abstract

The relevance of the study is due to the need for monitoring grain production and insufficient development of theoretical, content-technological and scientific-methodological aspects of the use of digital technologies in agriculture. The main purpose of the research is to monitor the state of grain production in Russia and to develop practical recommendations for the use of digital technologies in the crop production industry. The article presents the main components of digitalization of the crop production industry in general and grain production in particular. It has been established that the modern period of development of grain production in the context of the digital economy and the accelerated development of scientific and technological progress combines a complex of various phenomena, suggesting a significant strengthening of the role of science in the development of society. The presented recommendations are aimed at introducing digital technologies into the process of grain production and adapting agribusiness to new conditions of technological production.

Evaluation of Urban Water Environment Carrying Capacity based on a Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation Model

pp. 399-407 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.12.006

Jie Bai, Shicun Liu, Huanhuan Wang, Yanwei Zhao

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Abstract

The evaluation of urban water environment carrying capacity (WECC) can provide a reference for water environment protection and comprehensive management. Using Puyang city, Hebi city and Anyang city as examples, the evaluation index system and standard of WECC, which includes water resources, water environment and water ecology, were established. A fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model was constructed to calculate and evaluate the carrying capacity of WECC in these three cities. The results show that Hebi and Anyang are both at medium carrying capacity, whereas Puyang city is at a low carrying capacity. The carrying capacity of water-resource elements in Puyang city is poor, whereas the city's water-environment elements are better. The carrying capacity of water-ecological elements in these three cities are all poor. In the future, Puyang city and Hebi city should focus on water-resource conservation and improve the level of water-pollution control, respectively. All three cities should strengthen water-ecological protection and restoration.

Effect of Chelating Agent Type and Addition Amount on Heavy Metal Leaching of Fly Ash in Municipal Solid Waste Incineration

pp. 409-415 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.12.007

Danian Ruan, Linlin Feng, Yiyang Zhang, Yunfeng Lao

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Abstract

Based on the pollution control standard of municipal solid waste incineration, the pollution characteristics of fly-ash in a domestic municipal solid waste incineration power plant were analyzed and tested. The effects of the amount of hydrated lime, the type and dosage of chelating agent and the mixture of chelating agent on the leaching concentration, alkali content and pH value of leaching solution in fly ash were studied. In this study, four kinds of chelating agents (dithiocar-bamate agents (DTC), inorganic phosphate (KOP), polyamine chelators (PCA) , diethylamine chelators (DLA)) were selected to carry out the stabilization test, and the effect of heavy metal leaching after fly ash stabilization was compared and analyzed. At the same time, the pH of heavy metal leaching solution after chelation was determined, and the heavy metal chelating agent and chelating process conditions were optimized. The test results show that controlling the alkali content of fly ash is 16 $\mathrm{\sim}$ 23\%, which is beneficial to reduce the leaching concentration of heavy metals, under the optimal dosage of 4\%, the leaching concentration of Pb, Zn and Cd in fly ash solidified by DLA, DTC and PCA can meet the emission requirements, and the treatment effect is better than that of Kop, when the dosage of hydrated lime is 10 and 12 kg/t, the leaching concentration of Pb was 0.03 and 0.025 mg/L under 4\% DLA + 5\% Trisodium phosphate (TPE), which were 43.7\% and 45.8\% lower than those under 4\% DLA, which indicated that the chelating agent had good stabilization effect on Pb and Zn in fly ash, and the alkali content of fly ash also played a key role in chelating effect.

Analysis of the Characteristics of Usage and Carbon Reduction Effect of Shared Bikes in Low Temperature and Snowy Area –A Case Study of Shenyang

pp. 417-428 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2022.12.008

Xiaohan Wu, Yanhao Cao, Zhiwei Song, Chengkang Guo, Xiaojun Li

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Abstract

In 2020, the number of shared bike users has reached 253 million in China, covering more than 360 cities. What is more, the number of shared bikes has also ascended to 240,000 in Shenyang, with a peak average number of daily trips arriving at 2 million. It is obvious that shared bikes have become an important part of trip modes among individuals. However, people's awareness of getting around is different from that in the economically developed area because of the long and cold winter, relatively small population, and slow economic growth in Northeast China. This research analyzed the use and distribution features of shared bikes in Shenyang as well as evaluating its carbon reduction effect with a combination of life cycle assessment (LCA), questionnaire survey and web crawler. The results showed that the proportion of shared-bike trips within the second ring road of Shenyang was as high as 69.4\%; the willingness of the winter population to use shared bikes decreased by about 75\% compared with other seasons; approximately 1/3 of the public did not report any damage to shared bikes; it is predicted that the amount of per-capita carbon saving would have risen from 22.75g/km to 51.17g/km if the replacement ration of the shared bike to cars and taxis increases by 10\% each. Besides, the amount of per-capita carbon saving would have dropped from 22.75g/km to 15.41 g/km if the replacement ratio of the shared bike to cars and taxis falls by 50\%.

JEAM Volume 11, Issue 1

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Dynamical analysis of a Crowley-Martin predator-prey model with prey harvesting and discrete time-delay

pp. 1-22 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.03.001

Anindita Bhattacharyya, Ashok Mondal, Sanghita Bose, A. K. Pal

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Abstract

The present study deals with the dynamical response of a predator-prey model in which the prey has been subjected to harvesting. The proposed model considers a Crowley-Martin response function which is subjected to Michaelis-Menten type prey harvesting. It is first shown that the system is bounded and the conditions of existence and stability of the equilibria of the proposed model have been furnished. Next the presence of Hopf bifurcation and limit cycles have been shown to explain the transition of the model from a stable to an unstable one. It is seen that harvesting effort has a remarkable effect on the dynamics of the system and can make the system undergo unstability by reaching beyond a critical value. Considering the discrete time delay as bifurcating parameters, the conditions for existence of limit cycle under which the system admits a Hopf-bifurcation are investigated. The detailed study for direction of Hopf-bifurcation have been derived with the use of both the normal form and the central manifold theory.

Assessment of Water Quality in Groundwater, Surface and Spring Water in Phosphorite Mining Area of Tebessa (Algeria)

pp. 23-39 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.03.002

Bilal Boumaza, Tatiana V. Chekushina, Kirill A. Vorobyev, Leonid E. Schesnyak

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Abstract

Industrial discharges of phosphate constitute an enormous danger for the environment, because of their high content of heavy metals, which causes contamination of water and soil. The current study aims to measure the trace metal pollution (Al, Cr, As, Se, U, Fe, Si, Sr, Li, Zn, Pb, Ni, and Cu) in surface waters, spring waters and groundwater found in the Djebel Onk. Phosphate treatment Area in order to assess the magnitude of the risk on the health of the people. Thus, samples were analyzed using the Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry method. The results show that the surface water, spring waters, and groundwater are contaminated by these trace metals, particularly lead, uranium, iron, lithium, selenium, and magnesium. It has been observed that the average maximum levels in groundwater are iron 24.32 mg/l, uranium 0.0017 mg/l, selenium 0.0365~gm/l, lithium 0.05 mg/l, lead 0.037 mg/l, while in surface waters, the maximum iron content of 1.1565 mg/l, uranium of 0.021 mg/l, selenium of 0.021 gm/l, lithium of 0.327 and lead of 0.05 mg/l were observed, in spring waters the maximum iron, selenium and lead levels are 0.225 mg/l, 0.017mg/l, 0.031gm/l respectively, which are higher than the World Health Organization standard for drinking water. The consumption of these waters without treatment could have negative impacts on human health in general and that of children in particular.

Environmental Management Accounting and corporate performance: the mediating role of corporate environmental ethics: Evidence from the manufacturing sector

pp. 41-52 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.03.003

Sarfaraz Javed

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Abstract

Emerging environmental concerns call the companies to adopt environmental management accounting to align with their environmental, financial, and social goals. This study is performed in India's manufacturing sector to see how EMA adoption impacts its environmental, financial, and social performance. The study has also incorporated the impact of corporate environment ethics. This study is a quantitative study based on questionnaires, and the data were collected from 384 participants. The data analysis applying CFA and SEM has shown that EMA adoption of firms' financials, environmental, and social performance is significant and positive. Simultaneously, the mediation of corporate environment ethics is also significant and positive. The study is an authentic source for promoting EMA adoption by firms in India and worldwide to align its environmental, financial, and social goals.

Water Accounting Framework in India: Performance Implications and Contextual Factors

pp. 53-61 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.03.004

Praveen Kumar

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Abstract

The current investigation analyzed the connection between corporate water disclosures and financial performance in the Indian setting. For this purpose, the water disclosures scores were fetched from the Carbon Disclosure Project reports of all partaking Indian firms for the sample period 2018 to 2019. Further, return on assets, return on capital employed and return on net worth were used as a proxy of sample firms' financial performance. The study revealed that Indian firms have taken initiatives for being corporate water responsible and have openly revealed their endeavours through the Carbon disclosure project. However, this examination did not find any evidence to validate that the water divulgences influence firms' performance. These results are crucial for the managers and investors to know the financial consequences of willful water divulgence by the companies working in developing economies.

The relationship between environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure and financial performance: Evidence from Thailand

pp. 63-74 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.03.005

Muttanachai Suttipun, Thanyaorn Yordudom, Rojana Khunkaew

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Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the level and pattern of environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure in annual report of listed companies in the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), and to examine the relationship between ESG disclosure and Thai corporate financial performance. The population was all listed companies in the SET. Using annual reports during 2015 to 2019, content analysis by word counting was used to quantify the level and pattern of ESG disclosure in corporate annual reports, while financial performance was measured by corporate net income. Descriptive analysis, independent sample t-test, correlation matrix, and panel data analysis were used to analyze the data of this study. The results found that there was an increase of ESG disclosure in annual reporting during 2015 to 2019 by listed companies in the SET. The most common ESG disclosure was governance information disclosure following by social and environmental information disclosures. Moreover, there was the significantly positive relationship between ESG disclosure and corporate financial performance. Using control variables, stock reaction, firm age, firm risk, and ESG group had a positive correlation with corporate financial performance. The Findings can demonstrate that stakeholder theory can be used to explain the benefit of ESG disclosure, although the disclosure is still voluntary reporting in Thailand.

Does Urban Agriculture Have a Positive Impact on Food Security? (The case study of Tehran city)

pp. 75-90 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.03.006

Mahrooz Farzam, Maryam Omidi Najafabadi, Farhad Lashgarara, Seyed Jamal Farajollah Hosseini

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Abstract

In order to achieve food security, various factors such as food safety as well as healthy and nutritious diet are the main core values of human health development in all societies across the world. One important strategy to achieve this goal is urban agriculture (UA). Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to investigate the role of UA in improving food security and safety. This research had an applied and quantitative nature in which the questionnaire was used as the research instrument. The statistical population included all residents ($n=574$) of the Tehran city in Iran, who had attended the courses focused on agricultural and extension education, held in plant clinics by observers and experts in all agriculture and natural resources' areas of each districtduring a three-month period (October, November, and December) of 2019. To determine the sample size, the Cochran formula was applied and a total number of 161 samples were selected using the simple random sampling method. In general, the study results demonstrated the positive and significant effect of UA functions on the food security. In this regard, environmental (0.807), economic (0.730), and social (0.192) functions were respectively distinguished as the most important factors shaping the food security. Moreover, the results revealed that the impact of environmental, economic and social functions of the UA on the food security were statistically significant at the level of 99\%; while, the UA physical-mental function' effect on the food security was statistically meaningful at the level of 95\%. Based on mentioned findings, in order for agricultural development and extension services to succeed in urban area, special place should be dedicated to UA and sufficient funding and facilities must be allocated by the government for the citizens who are willing to work in agriculture related fields and this should be seriously considered by the policy makers and authorities in the ministry of Agricultural-Jihad.

Analysis of Changes over Time in Four Provisioning Ecosystem Services in Italy

pp. 91-114 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.03.007

R. G. Boschetto, A. Capriolo, R. A. Mascolo, J. Arrigotti, S. Racevich, A. Bulckaen, S. Balbi, F. Villa

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Abstract

Ecosystem service assessment and accounting can offer a valuable approach for linking human activity and nature along with arguments for the conservation and restoration of natural ecosystems. This paper presents an analysis of four provisioning ecosystem services flows at national level: wood biomass provision, crop provision, fish biomass provision and water provision. The methodology applied for the assessment and accounts of each ecosystem service depends on the nature of the service and on data availability. Wood provision is based on fast track approach using data derived from economic aggregates. Crop and fish biomass provision accounts are based on official statistics on yield production. Here, we combine yield statistics with a novel approach to disentangle the yield generated by the ecosystem from what is generated by the human inputs (i.e., planting, chemical products, aquaculture). Water provision is based on a spatial hydrological balance model. Supply and use accounting tables have been developed for the four ecosystem services in line with the United Nations System of Environmental Economic Accounting (UN-SEEA) guidelines and Experimental Ecosystem Accounting (EEA) initiative. The results of this study provide an estimation of the functioning of the ecosystem over time (2012-2018): they help showing the direction of change in ecological and economic terms and the order of magnitude of this change rather than the exact value of Nature (namely ecosystem services). Notwithstanding this study has the merit of being the first exercise of its kind at national level on these specific ecosystem services, it points out the need for further research and in-depth analysis, both to improve the quality of the outcomes and for a better understanding of the estimates meaning.

JEAM Volume 11, Issue 2

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Demystifying the role of stakeholder pressure and competitive advantage on environmental performance of readymade garments industries in Bangladesh

pp. 115-138 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.06.001

Mohammed Ali Arshad Chowdhury, Mouri Dey, Mohammad Morshedur Rahman, Mostafa Ali

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Abstract

In terms of growth and economic development, ready-made garments (RMG) are playing a significant role through income generation, employment, standard of living and women empowerment in Bangladesh. The government and the policy makers have taken initiatives to move ahead to the development path so that the environmentally vulnerable country can prepare itself to attain sustained development goals. Environmental sustainability is the managerial philosophy of today's business world that stresses on performance, growth, survival and response to changing environment. The impact of climate change calls for taking the responsibility by the businesses so that we can keep the world livable for the future generations. Environment and business complement each other in several ways. Being pressurized by some strategic factors, garments industries in Bangladesh are adopting sustainability programs for its long-term survival. This study attempted to find out the factors responsible for the environmental performance. It employed a survey questionnaire to know the motivational factors of environmental performance. This study adopted OLS method for data analysis. Based on 156 data sets, the study confirmed that regulations, competitive advantage and stakeholders' pressure play significant role of stimulators of environmental performance. The resource persons, think tank and policy makers should make sure of formulation and proper implementation of legal issues and compliance. Incorporation of stakeholders' insight and expectations and gaining inimitable competitive advantage over a sustained time period should also be a managerial concern.

Effect of prey refuge in a three species food chain model with Beddington-DeAngelis functional response

pp. 139-160 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.06.002

Lakshmi Narayan Guin, Sriparna Nandi, Santabrata Chakravarty

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Abstract

The present theoretical investigation concerns itself with a three-species food chain model of the Beddington-DeAngelis variety paying special attention to prey refuge. The analytical treatment yields different conditions for the existence of ecologically feasible equilibria. The local stability analysis is carried out for these equilibria from analytical point of view while their global performance is numerically simulated for an ecologically meaningful choice of parameters. Special emphasis is put on the dynamics of bifurcation of the system fashioned by prey refuge parameter. The numerical simulations reveal that the present food chain model with constant prey refuge prevails upon limit cycle from the stable scenario to reduce the refuge parameter value. This observation supports one to conclude that the prey refuge parameter plays a significant role in controlling the dynamics of bifurcation of the system under consideration.

Comparative analysis of the development areas of environmental audit in international practice and in the Republic of Kazakhstan

pp. 161-168 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.06.003

Gaukhar Zh. Zhumabekova, Salima K. Barysheva, Aigul I. Yesturliyeva, Bibigul Zh. Akimova, Beibit S. Korabayev

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Abstract

The development and expansion of the environmental audit abroad are mainly explained by the tightening of environmental legislation, the unification of requirements and standards in the trade area, credit, and financial policy in connection with the creation of a unified environmental space. If the environmental audit has become a real management tool abroad, in Kazakhstan, the development of a regulatory framework, the establishment of appropriate standards, and documents in this area are at an early stage, although there is some practical experience. The relevance of environmental audits at Kazakh enterprises has economic, environmental, and social aspects. The state is interested in the development of environmental audit and the creation of an appropriate regulatory framework for its functioning. Environmental accounting has not yet acquired a final understanding and logical completeness in the form of a complex knowledge system. The main tasks of the environmental audit are similar to the tasks of the audit in general, but they have their specific features, namely collecting reliable information about the company's production and developing conclusions and prerequisites for making management decisions about the actual environmental state of the enterprise. For Kazakh institutions of external financial control, environmental audit is a new area. The active development of environmental audit methodology at the national level is based on the achievements of International Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI).

On the food chain model with Sokol Howell functional response and prey

pp. 169-180 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.06.004

Nijamuddin Ali, Raid Kamel Naji

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Abstract

The cheif aim of the present investigation is to develop Leslie Gower type three species food chain model with prey refuge. The intra-specific competition among the predators is considered in the proposed model. Besides the logistic growth rate for the prey species, Sokol Howell functional response for predation is chosen for our model formulation. The behaviour of the model system thoroughly analyses near the biologically significant equilibria. The linear stability analysis of the equilibria is carried out in order to examine the response of the system. The present model system experiences Hopf bifurcation depending on the choice of suitable model parameters. Extensive numerical simulation reveals the validity of the proposed model.

Economic Indicators for Analyzing the Spatio-Temporal Characteristics of the Supply and Demand for Ecosystem Services

pp. 181-191 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.06.005

Yury Kosenok, Vladimir Gorbanyov, Svetlana Makar, Vladimir Bubnov

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Abstract

The purpose of this study is to improve the process of evaluating ecosystem services at the local, national, and international level. The following approaches were used in the study: computational, classification, and cartographic methods, aerospace, geoinformation technologies. The research uses a five-level framework for defining ``final ecosystem services''. Such framework can be applied on specific territories if transformed according to the following scheme: type of a class-class-group-division-section. This scheme allows one to specify the indicators of an ecosystem service and clarify its functions at each hierarchical level. To improve objectivity of area's ecological integrity evaluation, as well as accuracy and completeness of input materials for further evaluation of ecosystem services, it is proposed to determine the degree of ecological stability, the level of environmental risk and the degree of anthropogenic impact as basic indicators of the studied region. The approach is applied for the territory of an average village council. The implementation of a ``donor-recipient'' system of interregional relations is proposed for two ecosystem services: prevention of water erosion and recreation. Using cartographic materials and historical archival aerospace images for desktop and field research on the assessment of ecosystem services reduces the time used for this work. Developing and implementing land consolidation projects somewhat neutralize the negative effects of fragmentation and the existing inconsistency of administrative boundaries and ecosystems.

Dynamic response of Allee effect and refuge on the interacting species model system

pp. 193-224 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.06.006

Lakshmi Narayan Guin, Deepabali Datta, Santabrata Chakravarty

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Abstract

The present concern is to explore the complexity of the dynamics of a Leslie-Gower predator-prey model with the inclusion of the Allee effect and a constant proportion of prey refuge. Due attention is paid on the non-negativity, dissipativity, uniform boundedness and permanence of the dynamical system as well. Theoretical investigation is carried out on the existence of feasible equilibria of the system followed by the deductions imperative for the conditions of stability of the interior equilibrium. The analysis corresponding to the global stability of equilibrium using a suitable Lyapunov function is, however, not ruled out from the present pursuit. Moreover, the analytical conditions for the occurrence of bifurcation phenomena are ascertained both for a saddle-node bifurcation and a Hopf bifurcation. Numerical simulations are implemented finally at the end in order to validate the theoretical outcomes together with the concluding remarks relevant to the biological implications.

Revealing environmental discourses in online communities: topic mining for analysis of public agenda

pp. 225-241 | DOI: 10.5890/JEAM.2023.06.007

Konstantin Platonov, Kirill Svetlov

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Abstract

Environmental discourses in modern Russia are extremely diverse and controversial in their agendas and topics they discuss. Diversity shows itself in all communication channels and platforms including social media and on-line communities in particular. Social networking sites are becoming a sig-nificant source of data presenting the current trending topics and debates related to environmental issues. In this study, we investigate data from popular Russian social networking site VKontakte to understand what types of discourses are disseminated in it. The dataset of 250490 posts published on eco-related online communities in timeframe between 1.01.2017 and 01.05.2021 was collected. In sum, 7 salient clusters representing the main discourses in eco-related agenda were identified and described. Clustering based on the doc2vec algorithm proved to be an effective method to group the communities by related topics. The diversity of eco-related discourses was apparent not only in the differences in topics but also in various goals such as mobilizing, informing, education or awareness-raising. Agendas of clusters also differed in terms of alleged content consumers such as broad audiences or professionals, activists or volunteers.