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Author Srivastava, A.; Van Passel, S.; Laes, E. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Assessing the success of electricity demand response programs : a meta-analysis Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2018 Publication Energy Research and Social Science Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 40 Issue 40 Pages 110-117  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract This paper conducts a meta-analysis of 32 electricity demand response programs in the residential sector to understand whether their success is dependent on specific characteristics. The paper analyses several regression models using various combinations of variables that capture the designs of the programs and the socio-economic conditions in which the programs are implemented. The analysis reveals that demand response programs are more likely to succeed in highly urbanized areas, in areas where economic growth rates are high, and in areas where the renewable energy policy is favorable. These findings provide useful guidance in determining where and how to implement future demand response programs.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000430737800014 Publication Date 2017-12-28  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2214-6296 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited (up) 18 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:149027 Serial 6154  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Maes, D.; Van Passel, S. doi  openurl
  Title Advantages and limitations of exergy indicators to assess sustainability of bioenergy and biobased materials Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2014 Publication Environmental Impact Assessment Review Abbreviated Journal Environ Impact Asses  
  Volume 45 Issue Pages 19-29  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Innovative bioenergy projects show a growing diversity in biomass pathways, transformation technologies and end-products, leading to complex new processes. Existing energy-based indicators are not designed to include multiple impacts and are too constrained to assess the sustainability of these processes. Alternatively, indicators based on exergy, a measure of “qualitative energy”, could allow a more holistic view. Exergy is increasingly applied in analyses of both technical and biological processes. But sustainability assessments including exergy calculations, are not very common and are not generally applicable to all types of impact. Hence it is important to frame the use of exergy for inclusion in a sustainability assessment. This paper reviews the potentials and the limitations of exergy calculations, and presents solutions for coherent aggregation with other metrics. The resulting approach is illustrated in a case study. Within the context of sustainability assessment of bioenergy, exergy is a suitable metric for the impacts that require an ecocentric interpretation, and it allows aggregation on a physical basis. The use of exergy is limited to a measurement of material and energy exchanges with the sun, biosphere and lithosphere. Exchanges involving services or human choices are to be measured in different metrics. This combination provides a more inclusive and objective sustainability assessment, especially compared to standard energy- or carbon-based indicators. Future applications of this approach in different situations are required to clarify the potential of exergy-based indicators in a sustainability context. (C) 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000331924600003 Publication Date 2013-12-05  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0195-9255 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.094 Times cited (up) 18 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.094; 2014 IF: 2.400  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127545 Serial 6147  
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Author Lizin, S.; Leroy, J.; Delvenne, C.; Dijk, M.; De Schepper, E.; Van Passel, S. doi  openurl
  Title A patent landscape analysis for organic photovoltaic solar cells : identifying the technology's development phase Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2013 Publication Renewable Energy Abbreviated Journal Renew Energ  
  Volume 57 Issue Pages 5-11  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Organic photovoltaics (OPV) have developed into a vast research area. Progress in various directions has made it difficult to monitor the technology's precise development state. We offer a patent landscape analysis over all OPV devices, their substrates and encapsulation materials to provide an overview of patenting activity from a historical, organizational, geographical and technological point of view. Such an exercise is instrumental for private companies and research institutes aiming at both internal or external technology creation. We discuss our findings in the context of the Industrial Life Cycle model and find OPV still residing in the fluid technology development phase. Technology development is still following an exponential growth path, with the majority of patents coming from the Asian continent and in general private companies. For devices, the main technological focus can be traced back to the “H01L-031” international patent classification (IPC) main group. For the queried substrates, the most attention has gone to glass, but paper and textile have drawn significant interest too. Finally, encapsulation is found to be a less mature research field given the smaller number of patent families. The latter shows that the technology has not matured to the level where processing is carried out on a commercial scale. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000319025000002 Publication Date 2013-02-13  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0960-1481 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.357 Times cited (up) 18 Open Access  
  Notes ; The authors are much obliged to INTERREG for their financial support of the ORGANEXT project (www.organext.org), without which it would have been impossible to conduct this research. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.357; 2013 IF: 3.361  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127551 Serial 6143  
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Author Compernolle, T.; Witters, N.; Van Passel, S.; Thewys, T. doi  openurl
  Title Analyzing a self-managed CHP system for greenhouse cultivation as a profitable way to reduce CO2-emissions Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2011 Publication Energy Abbreviated Journal Energy  
  Volume 36 Issue 4 Pages 1940-1947  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology  
  Abstract To counter global warming, a transition to a low-carbon economy is needed. The greenhouse sector can contribute by installing Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, known for their excellent energy efficiency. Due to the recent European liberalization of the energy market, glass horticulturists have the opportunity to sell excess electricity to the market and by tailored policy and support measures, regional governments can fill the lack of technical and economic knowledge, causing initial resistance. This research investigates the economic and environmental opportunities using two detailed cases applying a self managed cogeneration system. The Net Present Value is calculated to investigate the economic feasibility. The Primary Energy Saving, the CO2 Emission Reduction indicator and an Emission Balance are applied to quantify the environmental impact. The results demonstrate that a self-managed CHP system is economic viable and that CO2 emissions are reduced. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000289605900014 Publication Date 2010-04-03  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0360-5442 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.52 Times cited (up) 19 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.52; 2011 IF: 3.487  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127561 Serial 6152  
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Author Lizin, S.; Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.; Van Dael, M. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Battery pack recycling : behaviour change interventions derived from an integrative theory of planned behaviour study Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2017 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy  
  Volume 122 Issue Pages 66-82  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Belgium has passed the 45% cap, mandated by the European Union, by achieving a collection rate of over 50% in 2012. Having such a collection rate, Belgium is amongst the frontrunners in battery recycling in Europe. However, despite the efforts, about 40% of used batteries are still not properly collected. Particularly troublesome according to the national producer responsibility organization are the battery packs. In this paper we therefore investigate the drivers and barriers to battery pack drop-off intention perceived by Belgian households using an integrative model based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour. An R2 of 0.64 was found, which according to the literature on partial least squares structural equation modelling signals a moderate yet very close to substantial coefficient of determination. We find that on average perceived behavioural control and moral norms have the largest influence on the intention to drop-off used battery packs as quickly as possible. Based on the insights gained, recommendations are made for both behaviour change interventions and future research.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000401881300007 Publication Date 2017-02-15  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.313 Times cited (up) 21 Open Access  
  Notes ; The corresponding author wishes to thank the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for granting him a postdoctoral grant [grant number: 12G5415N]. Furthermore, the second author wishes to express her gratitude for funding her to the SUMMA policy platform. Furthermore, we wish to express our sincere gratitude to Peter Coonen and Nele Peeters of Bebat for their time and willingness to share information with us. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.313  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:140681 Serial 6159  
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Author Thomassen, G.; Van Dael, M.; Lemmens, B.; Van Passel, S. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title A review of the sustainability of algal-based biorefineries : towards an integrated assessment framework Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2017 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev  
  Volume 68 Issue 2 Pages 876-887  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Algal-based bioenergy products have faced multiple economic and environmental problems. To counter these problems, algal-based biorefineries have been proposed as a promising solution. Multiple environmental and economic assessments have analyzed this concept. However, a wide variation in results was reported. This study performs a review to evaluate the methodological reasons behind this variation. Based on this review, four main challenges for a sustainability assessment were identified: 1) the use of a clear framework; 2) the adaptation of the methodology to all stages of technological maturity; 3) the use of harmonized assumptions; 4) the integration of the technological process. A generic methodology, based on the integration of a techno-economic assessment methodology and a streamlined life cycle assessment was proposed. This environmental techno-economic assessment can be performed following an iterative approach during each stage of technology development. In this way, crucial technological parameters can be directly identified and evaluated during the maturation of the technology. The use of this assessment methodology can therefore act as guidance to decrease the time-to-market for innovative and sustainable technologies.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000391899400005 Publication Date 2016-03-16  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited (up) 23 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139038 Serial 6245  
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Author Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.; Pelkmans, L.; Guisson, R.; Swinnen, G.; Schreurs, E. doi  openurl
  Title Determining potential locations for biomass valorization using a macro screening approach Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2012 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal Biomass Bioenerg  
  Volume 45 Issue Pages 175-186  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract European policy states that by 2020 at least 20% of final energy consumption should come from renewable energy sources. Biomass as a renewable energy source cannot be disregarded in order to attain this target. In this study a macro screening approach is developed to determine potential locations for biomass valorization in a specified region. The approach consists of five steps: (1) criteria determination, (2) data gathering, (3) weight assignment, (4) final score, (5) spatial representation. The resulting outcome provides a first well balanced scan of the possibilities for energy production using regional biomass. This way policy makers and investors can be supported and motivated to study the possibilities of building energy production plants at specific locations in more detail, which can be described as a 'micro-screening'. In our case study the approach is applied to determine the potentially interesting locations to establish a biomass project. The region has been limited to the forty-four communities in the province of Limburg (Belgium). The macro screening approach has shown to be very effective since the amount of interesting locations has been reduced drastically. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000308384500019 Publication Date 2012-06-30  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0961-9534 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.219 Times cited (up) 23 Open Access  
  Notes ; The authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support from INTERREG and the province of Limburg. Special thanks to our colleague Thomas Voets for his effort in making the GIS maps. Moreover, the authors would like to thank the two anonymous reviewers for their valuable comments. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.219; 2012 IF: 2.975  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127554 Serial 6178  
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Author Thomassen, G.; Egiguren Vila, U.; Van Dael, M.; Lemmens, B.; Van Passel, S. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title A techno-economic assessment of an algal-based biorefinery Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2016 Publication Clean Technologies And Environmental Policy Abbreviated Journal Clean Technol Envir  
  Volume 18 Issue 6 Pages 1849-1862  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Economic and technological assessments have identified difficulties with the commercialization of bulk products from microalgae, like biofuels. To overcome these problems, a multi-product algal-based biorefinery has been proposed. This paper performs a techno-economic assessment of such a biorefinery. Four production pathways, ranging from a base case with commercial technologies to an improved case with innovative technologies, are analyzed. All region-specific parameters were adapted to Belgian conditions. Three scenarios result in techno-economically viable production plants. The most profitable scenario is the scenario which uses a specialized membrane for medium recycling and an open pond algae cultivation. Although the inclusion of a photobioreactor decreases the culture medium costs, the higher investment costs result in lower economic profits. The carotenoid content and price are identified as critical parameters. Furthermore, the economies of scale assumption for the photobioreactor is critical for the feasibility of this cultivation technology. The techno-economic assessment is an important methodology to guide and evaluate further improvements in research and shorten the time-to-market for innovative technologies in this field.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000384470700017 Publication Date 2016-03-26  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1618-954x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.331 Times cited (up) 24 Open Access  
  Notes ; We would like to thank Herman Beckers, Metin Bulut, Frans Snijkers, Joris van der Have, Jan Vanderheyden, Leen Bastiaens, and Lies Eykens for the provision of technological and economic data and the useful discussions on the assumptions in the model. We would also like to thank Eva Cordery for proofreading the article and the anonymous reviewers for their valuable feedback and suggestions. Furthermore, we gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Fundacion Novia Salcedo. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.331  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139027 Serial 6262  
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Author Lizin, S.; Van Passel, S.; De Schepper, E.; Vranken, L. doi  openurl
  Title The future of organic photovoltaic solar cells as a direct power source for consumer electronics Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2012 Publication Solar Energy Materials And Solar Cells Abbreviated Journal Sol Energ Mat Sol C  
  Volume 103 Issue Pages 1-10  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract As the search for marketable photovoltaic solar cells continues, organic photovoltaic (OPV) solar cells have been identified as a technology with many attractive features for commercialization. Most photovoltaic technologies on the market today were improved in the consumer electronics market segment. A similar evolution has been envisioned for OPV. Hence this paper investigates consumer preferences for solar cells directly powering consumer electronics. Choice experiments were designed and responses were collected using a random sample of 300 individuals from the Flemish region (northern part of Belgium). Results allow for computation of attribute importance, willingness to pay (WTP), and simulation of theoretical market share. These measures point towards OPV being able to reach considerable market share in the long run, bearing in mind that efforts are first needed in elevating OPV's efficiency and lifetime as they most determine consumers' preferences. Price is found to be the least important product characteristic for OPV solar cells to be incorporated in consumer electronics devices. We therefore warn against generalizing attributes' importance across the boundaries of market segments. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000306044300001 Publication Date 2012-05-03  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0927-0248 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.784 Times cited (up) 25 Open Access  
  Notes ; The authors would kindly want to express their gratitude towards every survey respondent and participant for their preliminary work. Also the authors are much obliged to INTERREG and the ORGANEXT project for their financial support, without which it would have been impossible to conduct this research. Last but not least, we would like to thank the reviewers for their insightful comments which allowed for fine tuning our work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.784; 2012 IF: 4.630  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127556 Serial 6267  
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Author Meul, M.; Van Middelaar, C.E.; de Boer, I.J.M.; Van Passel, S.; Fremaut, D.; Haesaert, G. doi  openurl
  Title Potential of life cycle assessment to support environmental decision making at commercial dairy farms Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2014 Publication Agricultural Systems Abbreviated Journal Agr Syst  
  Volume 131 Issue Pages 105-115  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract In this paper, we evaluate the potential of life cycle assessment (LCA) to support environmental decision making at commercial dairy farms. To achieve this, we follow a four-step method that allows converting environmental assessment results using LCA into case-specific advice for farmers. This is illustrated in a case-study involving 20 specialized Flemish dairy farms. Calculated LCA indicators are normalized into scores between 0 and 100, whereby a score of 100 is assumed optimal, to allow for a mutual comparison of indicators for different environmental impact categories. Next, major farm and management characteristics affecting environmental performance are identified using multiple regression and correlation analyses. Finally, comparing specific farm and management characteristics with those of best performing farms identifies farm-specific optimization strategies. We conclude that this approach complies with most of the identified critical success factors for the successful implementation of LCA as a decision support system for farmers. Key aspects herein are (i) the flexibility and accessibility of the model, (ii) the use of readily available farm data, (iii) farm advisors being intended model users, (iv) the identification of key farm and management characteristics affecting environmental performance and (v) the organization of discussion sessions involving farmers and farm advisors. However, attention should be paid (i) to provide sufficient training and guidance for farm advisors on the use of the applied LCA model and the interpretation of results, (ii) to evaluate the correctness of the used data and (iii) to keep the model up-to-date according to new scientific insights and knowledge concerning LCA methodology. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000343955300011 Publication Date 2014-09-15  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0308-521x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 2.571 Times cited (up) 25 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.571; 2014 IF: 2.906  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127540 Serial 6238  
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Author van Winsen, F.; de Mey, Y.; Lauwers, L.; Van Passel, S.; Vancauteren, M.; Wauters, E. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Determinants of risk behaviour : effects of perceived risks and risk attitude on farmer's adoption of risk management strategies Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2016 Publication Journal Of Risk Research Abbreviated Journal J Risk Res  
  Volume 19 Issue 1 Pages 56-78  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Sociology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract The importance of risk perception and risk attitude for understanding individual's risk behaviour are independently well described in literature, but rarely combined in an integrated approach. In this study, we propose a model assuming the choice to implement certain risk management strategies to be directly driven by both perceptions of risks and risk attitude. Other determinants influence the intention to apply different risk strategies mainly indirectly, mediated by risk perception and risk attitude. This conceptual model is empirically tested, using structural equation modelling, for understanding the intention of farmers to implement different common risk management strategies at their farms. Data are gathered in a survey completed by 500 farmers from the Flanders region in Belgium, investigating attitudes towards farming, perceived past exposure to risk, socio-demographic characteristics, farm size, perceptions of the major sources of farm business risk, risk attitudes and the intention to apply common risk management strategies. Our major findings are: (i) perception of major farm business risks have no significant impact on the intention of applying any of the risk strategies under study, (ii) risk attitude does have a significant impact. Therefore, rather than objective risk faced and the subjective interpretation thereof, it is the general risk attitude that influence intended risk strategies to be implemented. A distinction can be made between farmers willing to take risk, who are more inclined to apply ex-ante risk management strategies and risk averse farmers who are less inclined to implement ex-ante risk management strategies but rather cope with the consequences and diminish their effects ex-post when risks have occurred.  
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  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000365523100004 Publication Date 2014-07-24  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1366-9877 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 1.34 Times cited (up) 25 Open Access  
  Notes ; This work was supported by the agency for Innovation by Science and Technology [grant number 080508]. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.34  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:130188 Serial 6177  
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Author Maes, D.; Van Dael, M.; Vanheusden, B.; Goovaerts, L.; Reumerman, P.; Luzardo, N.M.; Van Passel, S. doi  openurl
  Title Assessment of the sustainability guidelines of EU Renewable Energy Directive : the case of biorefineries Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2015 Publication Journal Of Cleaner Production Abbreviated Journal J Clean Prod  
  Volume 88 Issue Pages 61-70  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Sustainability guidelines can help to safeguard the sustainable use of biological materials. When these guidelines are legally prescribed, their influence on the economic viability of bioenergy, biofuel and bioliquid projects is increased substantially, through their impact on national subsidy regimes and international trade. One of the key examples is the European directive 2009/28/EC, or the Renewable Energy Directive (RED), and the related COM/2010/11 that integrate guidelines for calculating greenhouse gas impact for various bioenergy pathways. This paper looks further into the sustainability results when influenced by principal decisions that are legally open for debate. Therefore, a concise review is conducted of the legal state-of-the-art on whether a product is waste or not. The review pinpoints uncertainty, leading to four potential legal scenarios. The sustainability of a complex biorefinery is analysed for each scenario. The results show (i) a high sensitivity to the principal decisions on the nature of waste materials in the scenarios, and (ii) to the definition of boundaries between the processes. More detailed rules for the application of the RED guidelines are needed, and should be complemented with methods specifically targeting all relevant sustainability aspects, thereby enhancing the overall understanding of the sustainability of the process. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.  
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  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000347771100007 Publication Date 2014-04-30  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0959-6526 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 5.715 Times cited (up) 25 Open Access  
  Notes ; We would like to thank the editor and the anonymous referees for their helpful suggestions and insightful comments that have significantly improved the paper. The 'Energy Conversion Parks' (ECP) project is funded as Project nr IVA-VLANED-2.39 by the Interreg IVa-Flanders-Netherlands program from the European Fund for Regional Development that stimulates cross border projects. Also the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Flemish Government, the Provinces of Noord-Brabant (NL), Zeeland (NL), Limburg (BE) and the partners (VITO, Avans University of Applied Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Hasselt University, and Zeeland University of Applied Sciences) themselves are co-financing the project. Finally, we would like to express our gratitude towards the organization of the eighth Conference on Sustainable Development of Energy, Water and Environment systems in Dubrovnik (Croatia) for giving us the opportunity to present and thereby fine-tune our work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.715; 2015 IF: 3.844  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127538 Serial 6157  
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Author Meul, M.; Van Passel, S.; Fremaut, D.; Haesaert, G. doi  openurl
  Title Higher sustainability performance of intensive grazing versus zero-grazing dairy systems Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2012 Publication Agronomy For Sustainable Development Abbreviated Journal Agron Sustain Dev  
  Volume 32 Issue 3 Pages 629-638  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Although grazing of dairy cows is an integral part of dairy farming in many European countries, farmers today more often choose for zero-grazing systems, where cows are housed throughout the year. Some studies already compared grazing and zero-grazing systems for specific issues such as labor efficiency, environmental impact, or animal welfare. In our study, we perform a more integrated evaluation, considering relevant ecological, economic, and social aspects. This allows for a balanced and more complete comparison of the sustainability performance of the two production methods. We evaluated ten intensive grazing and ten zero-grazing specialized Flemish dairy farms on the use of nutrients and energy, productivity and profitability, labor input, and animal welfare. In addition, we put special effort in formulating useful management advice for farmers. Therefore, we combined a detailed analysis of the sustainability indicators with an intensive interaction and discussion with farmers and farm advisors. Results show that, on average, the zero-grazing farms performed significantly worse from an ecological and economic point of view. This fact is explained mainly due to a less efficient use of concentrates and byproducts. Social sustainability performance did not differ significantly between the two groups. As a result, the integrated sustainability performance was significantly lower for the zero-grazing group. This finding shows that a further shift from intensive grazing to zero-grazing can move dairy farming in Flanders further away from sustainability. An important advice to improve the ecological and economic performance of zero-grazing farms is to optimize cows' rations to include more forages and optimize forage production and use. More detailed site- and case-specific management advice for farmers of both groups was provided during a discussion meeting. We consider this an essential additional step to any sustainability evaluation, since progress can only be made when monitoring results are translated into practical measures.  
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  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000306061800003 Publication Date 2012-01-11  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1774-0746 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.101 Times cited (up) 26 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.101; 2012 IF: 3.573  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127557 Serial 6209  
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Author Maheshi, D.; Van Passel, S.; Van Karel, A. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Environmental and economic assessment of 'open waste dump' mining in Sri Lanka Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2015 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy  
  Volume 102 Issue Pages 67-79  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Open waste dumps in Sri Lanka generate adverse environmental and socio-economic impacts due to inadequate maintenance. In this study, a concept of 'open waste dump mining' is suggested in order to minimise the environmental and socio-economic impacts, together with resource recovery. A model based on life cycle assessment and life cycle costing has been used to assess the environmental and economic feasibility of the suggested open waste dump mining concept. Two scenarios have been defined for a hypothetical case, dependent on the destination of the refuse derived fuel fraction. Scenario 1 comprises direct selling of refuse derived fuel as an alternative fuel to replace coal usage in the cement industry, while Scenario 2 consists of thermal treatment of refuse derived fuel with the objective of producing electricity. The study shows that both scenarios are beneficial from an environmental point of view, but not from an economic view point. However, economic profits can be obtained by adjusting waste transport distances and the price of electricity. The environmental analysis further reveals that the higher global warming potential of open waste dumps can be eliminated to a large extent by applying suggested mining and waste valorisation scenarios. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.  
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  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000362147800008 Publication Date 2015-07-24  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.313 Times cited (up) 26 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.313; 2015 IF: 2.564  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:128753 Serial 6196  
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Author Moretti, M.; Njakou Djomo, S.; Azadi, H.; May, K.; De Vos, K.; Van Passel, S.; Witters, N. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title A systematic review of environmental and economic impacts of smart grids Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2017 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev  
  Volume 68 Issue 2 Pages 888-898  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Smart grids (SGs) have a central role in the development of the global power sector. Cost-benefit analyses and environmental impact assessments are used to support policy on the deployment of SG systems and technologies. However, the conflicting and widely varying estimates of costs, benefits, greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction, and energy savings in literature leave policy makers struggling with how to advise regarding SG deployment. Identifying the causes for the wide variation of individual estimates in the literature is crucial if evaluations are to be used in decision-making. This paper (i) summarizes and compares the methodologies used for economic and environmental evaluation of SGs (ii) identifies the sources of variation in estimates across studies, and (iii) point to gap in research on economic and environmental analyses of SG systems. Seventeen studies (nine articles and eight reports published between 2000 and 2015) addressing the economic costs versus benefits, energy efficiency, and GHG emissions of SGs were systematically searched, located, selected, and reviewed. Their methods and data were subsequently extracted and analysed. The results show that no standardized method currently exists for assessing the economic and environmental impacts of SG systems. The costs varied between 0.03 and 1143 M/yr, while the benefits ranged from 0.04 to 804 M/yr, suggesting that SG systems do not result in cost savings The primary energy savings ranged from 0.03 to 0.95 MJ/kWh, whereas the GHG emission reduction ranged from 10 to 180 gCO2/kWh, depending on the country grid mix and the system boundary of the SG system considered. The findings demonstrate that although SG systems are energy efficient and reduce GHG emissions, investments in SG systems may not yield any benefits. Standardizing some methodologies and assumptions such as discount rates, time horizon and scrutinizing some key input data will result in more consistent estimates of costs and benefits, GHG emission reduction, and energy savings.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000391899400006 Publication Date 2016-03-24  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited (up) 27 Open Access  
  Notes ; We would like to thank the editor and the anonymous referees for their helpful suggestions and insightful comments that have significantly improved the paper. This research paper has been implemented within the GREAT (Growing Renewable Energy Applications and Technologies) project funded by the European INTERREG IVB North-Western Europe Programme. Nele Witters was financed by FWO (Research Foundation Flanders). ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139036 Serial 6260  
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Author van Winsen, F.; de Mey, Y.; Lauwers, L.; Van Passel, S.; Vancauteren, M.; Wauters, E. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Cognitive mapping : a method to elucidate and present farmers' risk perception Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2013 Publication Agricultural Systems Abbreviated Journal Agr Syst  
  Volume 122 Issue Pages 42-52  
  Keywords A1 Journal article  
  Abstract Assumptions on the perceptions of risks, made in agricultural economics literature, are recognized to be over-simplistic. For example most studies assume that risks are independent and static, while in reality most risks are interlinked and dynamic. We propose an alternative method to identify and present risk perception, closer to the actual comprehension of risk by farmers. Grounded theory is used to investigate the perceptions of risk by farmers while avoiding prior assumptions. Main findings are: (i) farmers have difficulty to rank or score probability and impact of risks in a (semi)quantitative manner; (ii) farmers attach different meanings to risk, when the focus shifts between, uncertain event, probability or value at stake and; (iii) farmers perceive risks as being interrelated. Based on these findings, we propose that farmers' risk perception can be best understood as a network of interrelated notions of uncertain events, their effects and uncertain outcomes. Furthermore, cognitive mapping is suggested to elucidate and present these networks. We test cognitive mapping, exploring dairy farmers' risk perception, and demonstrate the appropriateness of this methodology for capturing the complexity and context of perceived risk. Advantages are: (i) the qualitative approach, (ii) the focus on interrelations and context, (iii) the applicability at farm level, (iv) the farmer-driven rather than researcher-driven perspective, and (v) the elucidation of the polyvalent use of the risk concept. Cognitive maps can be used as a communication tool, a risk management tool, and a tool to stimulate bi-directional learning amongst farmers, policy makers, researchers and extension agents. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000326910500005 Publication Date 2013-09-12  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0308-521x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 2.571 Times cited (up) 27 Open Access  
  Notes ; We would like to acknowledge the Agency for Innovation by Science and Technology of the Flemish Government (IWT) for funding this research. Furthermore we would like to thank the anonymous reviewers for their valuable input. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.571; 2013 IF: 2.453  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:112765 Serial 6168  
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Author Rafiaani, P.; Kuppens, T.; Van Dael, M.; Azadi, H.; Lebailly, P.; Van Passel, S. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Social sustainability assessments in the biobased economy : towards a systemic approach Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2018 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev  
  Volume 82 Issue 2 Pages 1839-1853  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract The majority of impact assessments for the biobased economy are primarily focused on the environmental and (techno-)economic aspects, while social aspects are rarely considered. This study proposes a modified systemic approach for a social sustainability impact assessment of the biobased economy, based on a review on the common methodologies for assessing social impacts. Accordingly, the proposed approach follows the four general iterative steps of social life cycle analysis (SLCA) as it considers all life cycle phases of the biobased economy. The systemic approach considers the potential social impacts on local communities, workers, and consumers as the main three groups of the stakeholders. The review showed that the most common social indicators for inventory analysis within the biobased economy include health and safety, food security, income, employment, land- and worker-related concerns, energy security, profitability, and gender issues. Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) was also highlighted as the broadly utilized methodology for aggregating the results of impact assessments within the biobased economy. Taking a life cycle perspective, this study provides a holistic view of the full sustainability of research, design, and innovation in the biobased economy by suggesting the integration of the social aspects with techno-economic and an environmental life cycle assessment. Our proposed systemic approach makes possible to integrate the social impacts that are highly valued by the affected stakeholders into the existing sustainability models that focus only on environmental and techno-economic aspects. We discuss the steps of the proposed systemic approach in order to identify the challenges of applying them within the biobased economy. These challenges refer mainly to the definition of the functional unit and system boundaries, the selection and the analysis of social indicators (inventory analysis), the aggregation of the inventory to impact categories, and the uncertainties associated with the social sustainability evaluation. The result of this review and the proposed systemic approach serve as a foundation for industry and policy makers to gain a better insight into the importance of social sustainability impacts assessment within the biobased economy.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000423371300014 Publication Date 2017-08-01  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited (up) 28 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:149031 Serial 6250  
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Author Van Slycken, S.; Witters, N.; Meers, E.; Peene, A.; Michels, E.; Adriaensen, K.; Ruttens, A.; Vangronsveld, J.; Du Laing, G.; Wierinck, I.; Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.; Tack, F.M.G. doi  openurl
  Title Safe use of metal-contaminated agricultural land by cultivation of energy maize (Zea mays) Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2013 Publication Environmental Pollution Abbreviated Journal Environ Pollut  
  Volume 178 Issue Pages 375-380  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics  
  Abstract Production of food crops on trace element-contaminated agricultural lands in the Campine region (Belgium) can be problematic as legal threshold values for safe use of these crops can be exceeded. Conventional sanitation of vast areas is too expensive and alternatives need to be investigated. Zea mays on a trace element-contaminated soil in the region showed an average yield of 53 ± 10 Mg fresh or 20 ± 3 Mg dry biomass ha−1. Whole plant Cd concentrations complied with legal threshold values for animal feed. Moreover, threshold values for use in anaerobic digestion were met. Biogas production potential did not differ between maize grown on contaminated and non-contaminated soils. Results suggested favorable perspectives for farmers to generate non-food crops profitably, although effective soil cleaning would be very slow. This demonstrates that a valuable and sustainable alternative use can be generated for moderately contaminated soils on which conventional agriculture is impaired.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000320487700050 Publication Date 2013-04-22  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0269-7491 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 5.099 Times cited (up) 30 Open Access  
  Notes ; This research was funded by the Institute for the promotion of Innovation by Science and Technology in Flanders (IWT-Flanders, Grant IWT/CLO/50702). We want to thank OVAM, as the planting and management of this site is part of a demonstration project in the context of the INTERREG-project BENEKEMPEN. Also many thanks to laboratory staff of the departments and to Pioneer and KWS for providing the seeds. ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.099; 2013 IF: 3.902  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129870 Serial 6247  
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Author Danthurebandara, M.; Van Passel, S.; Vanderreydt, I.; Van Acker, K. doi  openurl
  Title Assessment of environmental and economic feasibility of Enhanced Landfill Mining Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2015 Publication Waste Management Abbreviated Journal Waste Manage  
  Volume 45 Issue Pages 434-447  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract This paper addresses the environmental and economic performance of Enhanced Landfill Mining (ELFM). Based on life cycle assessment and life cycle costing, a detailed model is developed and is applied to a case study, i.e. the first ELFM project in Belgium. The environmental and economic analysis is performed in order to study the valorisation of different waste types in the landfill, such as municipal solid waste, industrial waste and total waste. We found that ELFM is promising for the case study landfill as greater environmental benefits are foreseen in several impact categories compared to the landfills current situation (the Do-nothing scenario). Among the considered processes, the thermal treatment process dominates both the environmental and economic performances of ELFM. Improvements in the electrical efficiency of thermal treatment process, the calorific value of refuse derived fuel and recovery efficiencies of different waste fractions lead the performance of ELFM towards an environmentally sustainable and economically feasible direction. Although the environmental and economic profiles of ELFM will differ from case to case, the results of this analysis can be used as a benchmark for future ELFM projects.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000364796800048 Publication Date 2015-02-21  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0956-053x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.03 Times cited (up) 30 Open Access  
  Notes ; The authors would like to acknowledge the funding of this study by the IWT-O&O ELFM project 'Closing the Circle & Enhanced Landfill Mining as part of the Transition to Sustainable Materials Management' and the valuable discussions with Group Machiels (Belgium). ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.03; 2015 IF: 3.220  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129878 Serial 6156  
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Author Kuppens, T.; Van Dael, M.; Vanreppelen, K.; Thewys, T.; Yperman, J.; Carleer, R.; Schreurs, S.; Van Passel, S. doi  openurl
  Title Techno-economic assessment of fast pyrolysis for the valorization of short rotation coppice cultivated for phytoextraction Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2015 Publication Journal Of Cleaner Production Abbreviated Journal J Clean Prod  
  Volume 88 Issue Pages 336-344  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract The main barrier in the commercialization of phytoextraction as a sustainable alternative for remediating metal contaminated soils is its long time period, which can be countered by biomass valorization. From an environmental point of view, fast pyrolysis of the biomass is promising because its lower process temperature prevents metal volatilization. The remaining question is whether fast pyrolysis is also preferred from an economic point of view. Therefore, a techno-economic assessment of fast pyrolysis has been performed for a case study in the Campine region in Belgium. For this region, willow trees cultivated in short rotation have the right characteristics to serve as a phytoextracting crop. A techno-economic assessment requires by definition a multidisciplinary approach. The problem statement urges for a focus on the economic profitability from the viewpoint of an investor, including economic risk analysis. Fast pyrolysis seems more profitable than gasification. The profit is dependent on the scale of operation, the policy support (subsidies) and the oil yield. The economic risk can be reduced by increasing the scale of operation by means of complementing feedstocks, and by valorization of the char byproduct by subsequent processing to activated carbon. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000347771100036 Publication Date 2014-07-19  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0959-6526 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 5.715 Times cited (up) 36 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.715; 2015 IF: 3.844  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127539 Serial 6264  
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Author Witters, N.; Mendelsohn, R.; Van Passel, S.; Van Slycken, S.; Weyens, N.; Schreurs, E.; Meers, E.; Tack, F.; Vanheusden, B.; Vangronsveld, J. doi  openurl
  Title Phytoremediation, a sustainable remediation technology? 2 : economic assessment of CO2 abatement through the use of phytoremediation crops for renewable energy production Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2012 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal Biomass Bioenerg  
  Volume 39 Issue Pages 470-477  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Phytoremediation could be a sustainable remediation alternative for conventional remediation technologies. However, its implementation on a commercial scale remains disappointing. To emphasize its sustainability, this paper examines whether and how the potential economic benefit of CO2 abatement for different crops used for phytoremediation or sustainable land management purposes could promote phytotechnologies. Our analysis is based on a case study in the Campine region, where agricultural soils are contaminated with mainly cadmium. We use Life Cycle Analysis to show for the most relevant crops (willow (Salix spp), energy maize (Zea mays), and rapeseed (Brassica napus)), that phytoremediation, used for renewable energy production, could abate CO2. Converting this in economic numbers through the Marginal Abatement Cost of CO2 ( 20 ton−1) we can integrate this in the economic analysis to compare phytoremediation crops among each other, and phytoremediation with conventional technologies. The external benefit of CO2 abatement when using phytoremediation crops for land management ranges between 55 and 501 per hectare. The purpose of these calculations is not to calculate a subsidy for phytoremediation. There is no reason why one would prefer phytoremediation crops for renewable energy production over normal biomass. Moreover, subsidies for renewable energy already exist. Therefore, we should not integrate these numbers in the economic analysis again. However, these numbers could contribute to making explicit the competitive advantage of phytoremediation compared to conventional remediation technologies, but also add to a more sustainably funded decision on which crop should be grown on contaminated land.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000302829900054 Publication Date 2011-12-20  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0961-9534 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.219 Times cited (up) 38 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.219; 2012 IF: 2.975  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129863 Serial 6236  
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Author Jouzi, Z.; Azadi, H.; Taheri, F.; Zarafshani, K.; Gebrehiwot, K.; Van Passel, S.; Lebailly, P. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Organic farming and small-scale farmers : main opportunities and challenges Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2017 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ  
  Volume 132 Issue Pages 144-154  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Producing enough food to meet the needs of a growing population has always been the greatest concern of food policy-makers around the world. Given the increasing attention to organic farming (OF), we conducted this study to investigate the main opportunities and challenges of the food production system of small-scale farmers in developing countries with an emphasis on their livelihoods. The study showed that the most significant advantages of OF are environmental protection and a higher resilience to environmental changes, increasing farmers' income and reducing external input cost, enhancing social capacity and increasing employment opportunities. A s well as enhancing food security primarily by increasing the food purchasing power of local people. However, the main challenges of this food production system include lower yields in comparison to conventional systems, difficulties with soil nutrient management, certification and market barriers, and the educational and research needs of small-holders. The paper concludes that even though OF might present some significant challenges to small-scale farmers, it could/should still be considered as a part of the solution and means of improving their livelihoods.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000390825200014 Publication Date 2016-11-06  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited (up) 39 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139034 Serial 6233  
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Author Van Passel, S.; Van Huylenbroeck, G.; Lauwers, L.; Mathijs, E. doi  openurl
  Title Sustainable value assessment of farms using frontier efficiency benchmarks Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2009 Publication Journal Of Environmental Management Abbreviated Journal J Environ Manage  
  Volume 90 Issue 10 Pages 3057-3069  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics  
  Abstract Appropriate assessment of firm sustainability facilitates actor-driven processes towards sustainable development. The methodology in this paper builds further on two proven methodologies for the assessment of sustainability performance: it combines the sustainable value approach with frontier efficiency benchmarks. The sustainable value methodology tries to relate firm performance to the use of different resources. This approach assesses contributions to corporate sustainability by comparing firm resource productivity with the resource productivity of a benchmark, and this for all resources considered. The efficiency is calculated by estimating the production frontier indicating the maximum feasible production possibilities. In this research, the sustainable value approach is combined with efficiency analysis methods to benchmark sustainability assessment. In this way, the production theoretical underpinnings of efficiency analysis enrich the sustainable value approach. The methodology is presented using two different functional forms: the CobbDouglas and the translog functional forms. The simplicity of the CobbDouglas functional form as benchmark is very attractive but it lacks flexibility. The translog functional form is more flexible but has the disadvantage that it requires a lot of data to avoid estimation problems. Using frontier methods for deriving firm specific benchmarks has the advantage that the particular situation of each company is taken into account when assessing sustainability. Finally, we showed that the methodology can be used as an integrative sustainability assessment tool for policy measures.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000269022800013 Publication Date 2009-06-24  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0301-4797 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.01 Times cited (up) 41 Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.01; 2009 IF: 2.367  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:136762 Serial 6259  
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Author Afsharzade, N.; Papzan, A.; Ashjaee, M.; Delangizan, S.; Van Passel, S.; Azadi, H. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Renewable energy development in rural areas of Iran Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2016 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev  
  Volume 65 Issue Pages 743-755  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Iran's energy system is extremely dependent on fossil fuels which, in turn, have led to problems such as fossil fuels depletion, social, economic and environmental damage and territorial imbalance. The country should therefore design a sustainable energy system based on clean energy as well as renewable energy. Accordingly, and given that Iran's rural areas suffer from the unsustainable energy system, it is necessary to integrate renewable energy into comprehensive development programs in general, and into rural development programs, specifically. This review paper answers the following questions: Why is renewable energy important for Iran at national and rural levels? How is renewable energy related to sustainable rural development? and What are the challenges in the promotion of renewable energy technologies in Iran? The paper concludes that although renewable energy has potential for development in Iran's rural areas due to environmental, social and economic advantages, it could face some infrastructural, managerial, socio-cultural and economic challenges. Accordingly, aggressive and innovative policy making is required to meet these challenges. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000383293800053 Publication Date 2016-07-23  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited (up) 41 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:137105 Serial 6243  
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Author Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.; Pelkmans, L.; Guisson, R.; Reumermann, P.; Luzardo, N.M.; Witters, N.; Broeze, J. doi  openurl
  Title A techno-economic evaluation of a biomass energy conversion park Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2013 Publication Applied Energy Abbreviated Journal Appl Energ  
  Volume 104 Issue Pages 611-622  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Biomass as a renewable energy source has many advantages and is therefore recognized as one of the main renewable energy sources to be deployed in order to attain the target of 20% renewable energy use of final energy consumption by 2020 in Europe. In this paper the concept of a biomass Energy Conversion Park (ECP) is introduced. A biomass ECP can be defined as a synergetic, multi-dimensional biomass conversion site with a highly integrated set of conversion technologies in which a multitude of regionally available biomass (residue) sources are converted into energy and materials. A techno-economic assessment is performed on a case study in the Netherlands to illustrate the concept and to comparatively assess the highly integrated system with two mono-dimensional models. The three evaluated models consist of (1) digestion of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste, (2) co-digestion of manure and co-substrates, and (3) integration. From a socio-economic point of view it can be concluded that it is economically and energetically more interesting to invest in the integrated model than in two separate models. The integration is economically feasible and environmental benefits can be realized. For example, the integrated model allows the implementation of a co-digester. Unmanaged manure would otherwise represent a constant pollution risk. However, from an investor's standpoint one should firstly invest in the municipal solid waste digester since the net present value (NPV) of this mono-dimensional model is higher than that of the multi-dimensional model. A sensitivity analysis is performed to identify the most influencing parameters. Our results are of interest for companies involved in the conversion of biomass. The conclusions are useful for policy makers when deciding on policy instruments concerning manure processing or biogas production. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000316152700062 Publication Date 2012-12-25  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0306-2619 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 7.182 Times cited (up) 45 Open Access  
  Notes ; We would like to thank the editor and the anonymous referees for their helpful suggestions and insightful comments that have significantly improved the paper. Furthermore, the authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support from INTERREG and the province of Limburg (Belgium). Also, we would like to thank all remaining partners of the ECP project (Eloi Schreurs, Dries Maes, Kristian Coppoolse, Han ten Berge, Bert Annevelink, Nathalie Devriendt, Erwin Cornelissen, Hannes Pieper, Pieter Vollaard, Jan Venselaar, and Hessel Abbink Spaink) for their support and contributions. Finally, we would like to express our gratitude towards the organization of the eighth International Conference on Renewable Resources and Biorefineries in Toulouse (France) for giving us the opportunity to present and thereby fine-tune our work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 7.182; 2013 IF: 5.261  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127552 Serial 6145  
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Author Van Passel, S.; Meul, M. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Multilevel and multi-user sustainability assessment of farming systems Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2012 Publication Environmental Impact Assessment Review Abbreviated Journal Environ Impact Asses  
  Volume 32 Issue 1 Pages 170-180  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology  
  Abstract Sustainability assessment is needed to build sustainable farming systems. A broad range of sustainability concepts, methodologies and applications already exists. They differ in level, focus, orientation, measurement, scale, presentation and intended end-users. In this paper we illustrate that a smart combination of existing methods with different levels of application can make sustainability assessment more profound, and that it can broaden the insights of different end-user groups. An overview of sustainability assessment tools on different levels and for different end-users shows the complementarities and the opportunities of using different methods. In a case-study, a combination of the sustainable value approach (SVA) and MOTIFS is used to perform a sustainability evaluation of farming systems in Flanders. SVA is used to evaluate sustainability at sector level, and is especially useful to support policy makers, while MOTIFS is used to support and guide farmers towards sustainability at farm level. The combined use of the two methods with complementary goals can widen the insights of both farmers and policy makers, without losing the particularities of the different approaches. To stimulate and support further research and applications, we propose guidelines for multilevel and multi-user sustainability assessments.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000297874000020 Publication Date 2011-09-21  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0195-9255 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.094 Times cited (up) 49 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.094; 2012 IF: 1.851  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:94186 Serial 6231  
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Author Van Passel, S.; Dubois, M.; Eyckmans, J.; de Gheldere, S.; Ang, F.; Jones, P.T.; Van Acker, K. doi  openurl
  Title The economics of enhanced landfill mining : private and societal performance drivers Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2013 Publication Journal Of Cleaner Production Abbreviated Journal J Clean Prod  
  Volume 55 Issue Pages 92-102  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract This paper addresses the economics of Enhanced Landfill Mining (ELFM) both from a private point of view as well as from a society perspective. The private potential is assessed using a case study for which an investment model is developed to identify the impact of a broad range of parameters on the profitability of ELFM. We found that especially variations in Waste-to-Energy (WtE efficiency, electricity price, CO2-price, WtE investment and operational costs) and ELFM support explain the variation in economic profitability measured by the Internal Rate of Return. To overcome site-specific parameters we also evaluated the regional ELFM potential for the densely populated and industrial region of Flanders (north of Belgium). The total number of potential ELFM sites was estimated using a 5-step procedure and a simulation tool was developed to trade-off private costs and benefits. The analysis shows that there is a substantial economic potential for ELFM projects on the wider regional level. Furthermore, this paper also reviews the costs and benefits from a broader perspective. The carbon footprint of the case study was mapped in order to assess the project's net impact in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. Also the impacts of nature restoration, soil remediation, resource scarcity and reduced import dependence were valued so that they can be used in future social cost-benefit analysis. Given the complex trade-off between economic, social and environmental issues of ELFM projects, we conclude that further refinement of the methodological framework and the development of the integrated decision tools supporting private and public actors, are necessary. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000322802300010 Publication Date 2012-04-20  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0959-6526 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 5.715 Times cited (up) 65 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.715; 2013 IF: 3.590  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127550 Serial 6266  
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Author Hoogmartens, R.; Van Passel, S.; Van Acker, K.; Dubois, M. doi  openurl
  Title Bridging the gap between LCA, LCC and CBA as sustainability assessment tools Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2014 Publication Environmental Impact Assessment Review Abbreviated Journal Environ Impact Asses  
  Volume 48 Issue Pages 27-33  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Increasing interest in sustainability has led to the development of sustainability assessment tools such as Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), Life Cycle Costing (LCC) and Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA). Due to methodological disparity of these three tools, conflicting assessment results generate confusion for many policy and business decisions. In order to interpret and integrate assessment results, the paper provides a framework that clarifies the connections and coherence between the included assessment methodologies. Building on this framework, the paper further focuses on key aspects to adapt any of the methodologies to full sustainability assessments. Aspects dealt with in the review are for example the reported metrics, the scope, data requirements, discounting, product- or project-related and approaches with respect to scarcity and labor requirements. In addition to these key aspects, the review shows that important connections exist: (i) the three tools can cope with social inequality, (ii) processes such as valuation techniques for LCC and CBA are common, (iii) Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is used as input in both LCA and CBA and (iv) LCA can be used in parallel with LCC. Furthermore, the most integrated sustainability approach combines elements of LCA and LCC to achieve the Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA). The key aspects and the connections referred to in the review are illustrated with a case study on the treatment of end-of-life automotive glass. (C) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000340141900004 Publication Date 2014-05-23  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0195-9255 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.094 Times cited (up) 93 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.094; 2014 IF: 2.400  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127542 Serial 6163  
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Author Meul, M.; Van Passel, S.; Nevens, F.; Dessein, J.; Rogge, E.; Mulier, A.; Van Hauwermeiren, A. doi  openurl
  Title MOTIFS : a monitoring tool for integrated farm sustainability Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2008 Publication Agronomy For Sustainable Development Abbreviated Journal Agron Sustain Dev  
  Volume 28 Issue 2 Pages 321-332  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics  
  Abstract Indicator-based monitoring tools are frequently applied for sustainability assessments, also in agriculture. However, many indicators focus on a rather restricted number of sustainability aspects such as economy or ecology. Moreover the choice of the indicator is rarely explained. The aim of our study was to develop an indicator-based monitoring tool for integrated farm sustainability – i.e. taking into account economic and ecological and social aspects – based on a supported vision of sustainable agriculture and using a set of relevant indicators. Hereby, specific attention was paid to aspects of communication and user-friendliness. Four methodological steps were considered: (i) translating the major principles of a supported vision of sustainable Flemish agriculture into concrete and relevant themes; (ii) designing indicators to monitor progress towards sustainability for each of those themes; (iii) aggregating the indicators into an integrated farm sustainability monitoring tool and (iv) applying the monitoring tool on a practical farm, as a first attempt at end-use validation. Stakeholder participation and expert consulting played an important part in each of these methodological steps. As a case study, the methodology was applied to Flemish dairy farms. As a result, we developed MOTIFS, a user-friendly and strongly communicative indicator-based monitoring tool that allows the measurement of progress towards integrated sustainable dairy farming systems and fits within a well-founded methodological framework. MOTIFS is based on the equality of the economic, ecological and social sustainability dimensions, and this equality is inherently built into the system. Through the applied methodology, we founded the selected themes and indicators and we avoided using indicators that are not relevant to the problem at hand.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000256235500018 Publication Date 2008-03-21  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1774-0746 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.101 Times cited (up) 97 Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.101; 2008 IF: 1.649  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:136763 Serial 6229  
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Author Van Passel, S.; Nevens, F.; Mathijs, E.; Van Huylenbroeck, G. doi  openurl
  Title Measuring farm sustainability and explaining differences in sustainable efficiency Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2007 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ  
  Volume 62 Issue 1 Pages 149-161  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics  
  Abstract A major objective of European agricultural policy is to have a sustainable and efficient farming sector that is applying environmentally-friendly production methods. Policy makers aim to combine a strong economic performance and a sustainable use of natural resources. Therefore, it is important to measure and to assess farm sustainability. For a large dataset of Flemish dairy farms, a valuation method that is based on the concept of opportunity costs is used to calculate and analyze differences among the sample farms with respect to the creation of sustainable value. But more important than measuring the creation of sustainable value is to analyze differences in sustainable efficiency. Therefore, sustainable efficiency measures are calculated and differences in sustainable efficiency are explained. Using panel data, an effect model captures the determinants of sustainable efficiency of the studied farms. The empirical model shows that, in general, larger farms have a higher sustainable efficiency. Also farmer's age and dependency on support payments proved to be determining characteristics for observed differences in sustainable efficiency.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000246021800015 Publication Date 2006-07-22  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited (up) 101 Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.965; 2007 IF: 1.549  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:136767 Serial 6226  
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