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“Assessing the economic potential of landfill mining : review and recommendations”. Esguerra JL, Krook J, Svensson N, Van Passel S, Detritus Volume 08 - December 2019, 1 (2019). http://doi.org/10.31025/2611-4135/2019.13883
Abstract: As landfill mining (LFM) gains public attention, systematic assessment of its economic potential is deemed necessary. The aim of this review is to critically analyze the usefulness and validity of previous economic assessments of LFM. Following the life cycle costing (LCC) framework, (i) the employed methods based on goal and scope, technical parameters and data inventory, and modelling choices were contrasted with respect to (ii) the synthesized main findings based on net profitability and economic performance drivers. Results showed that the selected studies (n=15) are mostly case study-specific and concluded that LFM has a weak economic potential, hinting at the importance of favorable market and regulation settings. However, several method issues are apparent as costs and revenues are accounted at different levels of aggregation, scope and scale-from process to sub-process level, from private to societal economics, and from laboratory to pilot-scale, respectively. Moreover, despite the inherent large uncertainties, more than half of the studies did not perform any uncertainty or sensitivity analyses posing validity issues. Consequently, this also limits the usefulness of results as individual case studies and as a collective, towards a generic understanding of LFM economics. Irrespective of case study-specific or generic aims, this review recommends that future assessments should be learning-oriented. That is, uncovering granular information about what builds up the net profitability of LFM, to be able to systematically determine promising paths for the development of cost-efficient projects.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.31025/2611-4135/2019.13883
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“Assessing the success of electricity demand response programs : a meta-analysis”. Srivastava A, Van Passel S, Laes E, Energy Research and Social Science 40, 110 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ERSS.2017.12.005
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1016/J.ERSS.2017.12.005
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“Assessing the sustainability of community forest management : a case study from Iran”. Jafari A, Kaji HS, Azadi H, Gebrehiwot K, Aghamir F, Van Passel S, Forest Policy And Economics 96, 1 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.FORPOL.2018.08.001
Abstract: The development of sustainability criteria and indicators is necessary to assess the current management and to recognize appropriate management approaches towards sustainable forest management (SFM). The aim of this study is to assess the sustainability of current management in the Dopolan community forest and assess alternative management scenarios towards SFM. To this end, we applied multi criteria analysis which consists of three steps: a) developing a primary set of criteria and indicators (C&Is) on focus groups discussions, b) finalizing and weighing the set of C&Is, applying a pair wise comparison as well as ranking method, and c) assessing the current forest management regimes and alternative scenarios against a set of C&Is. As a result, 8 criteria and 40 indicators were selected. Our results indicated that to achieve SFM, the criteria including forest protection against natural and human factors, the establishment of appropriate legal and institutional requirements and socioeconomic functions of forests, are the most important criteria (weighted 14.60%, 14.28% and 13.96%, respectively). Assessing the current management regimes revealed that the criteria consisting of biodiversity conservation and local communities' awareness have the maximum distance to SFM (weighted 7.75% and 9.18%, respectively). Among the alternative forest management scenarios, the sixth scenario namely conservation and rehabilitation, local investment attraction in forest conservation and rehabilitation, enabling and capacity building of forest inhabitants were realized as the best scenarios (weighted 26.20%) to achieve SFM. A joint effort of the concerned government forestry officials and local people is needed to enhance the sustainability of all community based forestry models.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.982
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORPOL.2018.08.001
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Saviuc I (2021) Assessment of electric residential microgrids in the EU context : role of energy storage, interactions with the main grid, and policy scenarios. 158 p
Abstract: As decentralized electricity generation plays an important role in the reform of the energy system in the EU, electric residential microgrids merit an assessment of their position and potential. The work on this dissertation focuses on the synergy between the development of microgrids that are powered by PV panels, and the adoption of energy storage, with the aim to identify shortcomings and propose solutions. Techno-economic assessment indicates that, for a microgrid that aims to maximize its self-consumption, the electricity pricing mechanisms that are current practice across the EU are detrimental to the economic viability of using energy storage. Case studies and simulations in Belgium, Greece, Denmark, Italy, Finland, Spain and Germany show conclusively how existing tariff structures (Net-Metering, Time-of-Use, Feed-in Tariff, with or without the option of a Capacity tariff) are suitable for stimulating renewable generation, but not storage. Another underlying reason that affects the economic viability of a residential microgrid in the current context relates to the technology losses, which cannot be compensated by electricity pricing mechanisms. Having established the need for a different approach in order to improve the economic viability of microgrids with storage, this work investigated whether a form of direct support to the microgrid operator can be envisioned. A cost-benefit analysis revealed that the benefits coming from decentralized energy generation toward the main electricity grid can be compared with the cost of including and operating energy storage, and therefore a direct support from the network operator and the public can be justified in order to attain the economic viability of a microgrid with storage. This way, the electricity network can benefit from an increased number of flexible, enriched microgrids within the system, the microgrid operators are incentivized to include energy storage, and the society contributes towards a sturdier energy supply with more engaged prosumers and less polluting emissions. Entrepreneurial diversity: a career motives’ perspective – Ilse D
Keywords: Doctoral thesis; Engineering Management (ENM)
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“Assessment of environmental and economic feasibility of Enhanced Landfill Mining”. Danthurebandara M, Van Passel S, Vanderreydt I, Van Acker K, Waste Management 45, 434 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.WASMAN.2015.01.041
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.03
Times cited: 30
DOI: 10.1016/J.WASMAN.2015.01.041
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“Assessment of the sustainability guidelines of EU Renewable Energy Directive : the case of biorefineries”. Maes D, Van Dael M, Vanheusden B, Goovaerts L, Reumerman P, Luzardo NM, Van Passel S, Journal Of Cleaner Production 88, 61 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JCLEPRO.2014.04.051
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 5.715
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCLEPRO.2014.04.051
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“Attitudes of agricultural experts toward genetically modified crops : a case study in Southwest Iran”. Ghanian M, Ghoochani OM, Kitterlin M, Jahangiry S, Zarafshani K, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Science And Engineering Ethics 22, 509 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1007/S11948-015-9653-1
Abstract: The production of genetically modified (GM) crops is growing around the world, and with it possible opportunities to combat food insecurity and hunger, as well as solutions to current problems facing conventional agriculture. In this regard the use of GMOs in food and agricultural applications has increased greatly over the past decade. However, the development of GM crops has been a matter of considerable interest and worldwide public controversy. This, in addition to skepticism, has stifled the use of this practice on a large scale in many areas, including Iran. It stands to reason that a greater understanding of this practice could be formed after a review of the existing expert opinions surrounding GM crops. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze the predictors that influence agricultural experts attitudes toward the development of and policies related to GM crops. Using a descriptive correlational research method, questionnaire data was collected from 65 experts from the Agricultural Organization in the Gotvand district in Southwest Iran. Results indicated that agricultural experts were aware of the environmental benefits and possible risks associated with GM crops. The majority of participants agreed that GM crops could improve food security and accelerate rural development, and were proponents of labeling practices for GM crops. Finally, there was a positive correlation between the perception of benefits and attitudes towards GM crops.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.229
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1007/S11948-015-9653-1
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“Battery pack recycling : behaviour change interventions derived from an integrative theory of planned behaviour study”. Lizin S, Van Dael M, Van Passel S, Van Dael M, Resources Conservation And Recycling 122, 66 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2017.02.003
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.313
Times cited: 21
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2017.02.003
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“Benefit segmentation of tourists to geosites and its implications for sustainable development of geotourism in the Southern Lake Tana Region, Ethiopia”. Tessema GA, van der Borg J, Van Rompaey A, Van Passel S, Adgo E, Minale AS, Asrese K, Frankl A, Poesen J, Sustainability 14, 3411 (2022). http://doi.org/10.3390/SU14063411
Abstract: Geotourism is a sustainable type of tourism that focuses on the geological and geomorphological heritages of an area, and the associated cultural and biodiversity features. Though the popularity of geotourism is rapidly growing, research on the demand side, particularly on segmenting tourists to geosites and understanding their profiles, is limited. This obviously makes the designing of effective tourism policies that aim at developing geotourism sustainably very difficult. Hence, the main objectives of this study were to segment and profile tourists to geosites based on the benefits sought, and to show its implications for sustainable development of geotourism. With a survey of 415 tourists, this study clustered tourists to geosites in the southern Lake Tana region in Ethiopia based on the benefits sought. A factor-cluster method was applied to segment the tourists. The study identified four distinct segments: Activity-Nature Lovers, Culture Lovers, Nature-Culture Lovers, and Want-It-Alls. These segments differed in their demographic, trip, and behavioral characteristics. The findings implied that for sustainable development, destination managers and marketers need to customize their geotourism product development and marketing strategies based on the needs and characteristics of each market segment.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.9
DOI: 10.3390/SU14063411
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“Beyond focus : exploring variability of service provision of agricultural cooperatives”. Sebhatu KT, Taheri F, Berhanu T, Maertens M, Van Passel S, D'Haese M, Annals of public and cooperative economics 92, 207 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1111/APCE.12301
Abstract: The wide array of services provided by agricultural cooperatives for their members is often not considered in academic studies. Addressing this gap in the literature, our paper explores the wide array of services provided by agricultural cooperatives and how these extend beyond those they were initially intended to provide. We study the extent and characteristics of service portfolios from 511 agricultural cooperatives in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. Results from two-limit Tobit models confirm that government and NGO-initiated cooperatives have a wide service portfolio compared to member-initiated cooperatives. In many of the studied cooperatives, the services they provide and their portfolios are more diverse than expected. Cooperatives seem to go beyond their focal areas of intervention. Also, those cooperatives that are more outward-oriented and where the chair has contact with other cooperatives or businesses, have a wider service portfolio. These results may help to explain the mixed findings on the impact of cooperative membership.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1111/APCE.12301
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“Beyond the environmentalist's paradox and the debate on weak versus strong sustainability”. Ang F, Van Passel S, Bioscience 62, 251 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1525/BIO.2012.62.3.6
Abstract: Environmentalists generally argue that ecological damage will (eventually) lead to declines in human well-being. From this perspective, the recent introduction of the “environmentalist's paradox” in BioScience by Raudsepp-Hearne and colleagues (2010) is particularly significant. In essence, Raudsepp-Hearne and colleagues (2010) claimed that although ecosystem services have been degraded, human well-being-paradoxically-has increased. In this article, we show that this debate is in fact rooted in a broader discussion on weak sustainability versus strong sustainability (the substitutability of human-made capital for natural capital). We warn against the reductive nature of focusing only on a stock flow framework in which a natural-capital stock produces ecosystem services. Concretely, we recommend a holistic approach in which the complexity, irreversibility, uncertainty, and ethical predicaments intrinsic to the natural environment and its connections to humanity are also considered.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 5.378
Times cited: 17
DOI: 10.1525/BIO.2012.62.3.6
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“Big is efficient : evidence from agricultural cooperatives in Ethiopia”. Gezahegn TW, Van Passel S, Berhanu T, D'Haese M, Maertens M, Agricultural Economics 50, 555 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1111/AGEC.12509
Abstract: In Ethiopia, there is a renewed interest in agricultural cooperatives as an institutional tool to improve the welfare of smallholder farmers. One of the pathways through which cooperatives benefit their members is scale economies. However, the establishment of cooperatives in Ethiopia seems to pay little attention to the size of the organizations. This article aims at investigating the effect of size on cost efficiency of agricultural cooperatives. More specifically, the purpose is to examine whether a single cooperative can serve a given number of farmers at a lower cost than two or more smaller cooperatives could. We employ the concept of cost subadditivity to compare the cost efficiency of large versus small cooperatives, and by extension unilateral actions. We estimate a flexible production technology using cross-sectional cooperative-level data. Findings show that costs would drop by 78% to 181% if farmers join hands in relatively large rather than small cooperatives.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.758
DOI: 10.1111/AGEC.12509
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“Bridging the gap between LCA, LCC and CBA as sustainability assessment tools”. Hoogmartens R, Van Passel S, Van Acker K, Dubois M, Environmental Impact Assessment Review 48, 27 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.EIAR.2014.05.001
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.094
Times cited: 93
DOI: 10.1016/J.EIAR.2014.05.001
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“Canola adoption enhancement in Western Iran”. Zarafshani K, Ghasemi S, Houshyar E, Ghanbari R, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Journal Of Agricultural Science And Technology 19, 47 (2017)
Abstract: Canola production is an important alternative for agricultural policy-makers in Iran to reduce dependency on the imported vegetable oils. Nevertheless, the canola planted area is only increasing at a slow pace, indicating a low willingness-to-accept of farmers. The general aim of this study was to determine the factors influencing the canola adoption in the Kermanshah Province in Western Iran. Employing stratified random sampling method, 106 farmers from each adopter and non-adopter group were selected. Helping to reach a suitable extensional program, two main categories of variables were defined; i.e. farmers personal characteristics and extension parameters. The analysis of farmers personal characteristics variables revealed that the adopters had larger farms and were younger. The results also show that 80% of the adopters were highly to very highly willing to cultivate canola. Furthermore, a logistic regression model estimated the influence of extensional parameters variables on the canola adoption. According to the regression model, the most effective factors are contact with extension agents and participating in extension classes. As a conclusion, it is suggested that the focus of extension services should be to reduce the distance to agricultural service centers in combination with more contact with extension agents and classes.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 0.813
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“Causal loop diagrams to systematically analyze market power in the Belgian sugar value chain”. Biely K, Mathijs E, Van Passel S, AIMS Agriculture and Food 4, 711 (2019). http://doi.org/10.3934/AGRFOOD.2019.3.711
Abstract: It has been acknowledged that power is a fundamental aspect that needs to be considered when performing a value chain analysis. The structure of the value chain is indicative of the power distribution along the chain. By employing systems thinking the structure of the value chain can be further investigated and inferences on market power issues can be made. This novel approach connects value chain research with insights from Industrial Organization (IO) literature. Depending on the case, market power may not be measurable by traditional economic tools. Systems thinking offers an alternative tool, allowing the employment of qualitative and quantitative data, overcoming drawbacks of IO methods and providing more depth to value chain analysis. In this paper the valuable contribution of systems thinking to market power analysis is exemplified by the Belgian sugar beet case. The analysis showed that transportability and perishability of sugar beet are key causes of market failure in the Belgian sugar value chain. Systems thinking can support understanding potential future behavior of the market based on the thorough understanding of the current market structure. We illustrate how to integrate factors determining the market structure into causal loop diagrams. This novel approach allows a comprehensive evaluation and thus opens up market power analysis to interdisciplinary research.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.3934/AGRFOOD.2019.3.711
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“Climate response of rainfed versus irrigated farms: the bias of farm heterogeneity in irrigation”. Vanschoenwinkel J, Van Passel S, Climatic Change 147, 225 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10584-018-2141-2
Abstract: Researchers who do not take into account farm heterogeneity in implementing specific climate change adaptation options might significantly bias their findings. To prove this point, this paper focusses on irrigation as an adaptation option to climate change and highlights the fact that there is no such thing as “irrigation.” Instead, different farms consider water management options across a spectrum that ranges from purely rainfed farms to purely irrigated farms with in between the extreme practices such as supplemental irrigation, water conservation practices, and different irrigation techniques. Accounting for such differences is necessary, yet difficult due to a lack of farm-specific data on water management and irrigation. This paper uses unique Farm Accountancy Data Network data of Western European farmers on the proportion of farmland that each farm irrigates. Unlike previous work, this allows taking into account some within-irrigation heterogeneity instead of simply categorizing farms as being “irrigated.” We estimate and compare climate response models based on the Ricardian cross-sectional method for a large range of irrigation categories. The results give insights into how the farm irrigation climate response can be significantly different depending on how irrigation is defined. This proves that ignoring within-adaptation differences when comparing non-adaptation with adaptation (in this case, rainfed versus irrigated agriculture) might lead to biased conclusions with regard to effectiveness of adaptation strategies. We therefore argue that it might be more relevant to understand at which point and under which circumstances irrigated agriculture is more or less beneficial than rainfed agriculture.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.496
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1007/S10584-018-2141-2
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“Climate variability and macroeconomic output in Ethiopia : the analysis of nexus and impact via asymmetric autoregressive distributive lag cointegration method”. Berihun D, Van Passel S, Environment, development and sustainability (2021). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10668-021-01604-9
Abstract: Ethiopia showed a rapid, yet, a none resilient economic growth much threatened by climate variability. In Ethiopia, the adverse effects of climate variability are stipulated among the significant factors constraining its economic development. There are relatively few studies about the adverse effects of climate variability on the Ethiopian macroeconomy. In this context, little is known about the exact effects of the ongoing climate variability on Ethiopian macroeconomic growth. This study intends to examine whether climate variability factors, for instance rainfall and temperature, have an effect on the macroeconomic output of Ethiopia. An asymmetric autoregressive distributive lag cointegration method is used to investigate time-series data for the years 1950-2014. Diagnostic tests show the relevance of the applied method and robustness of our results. The study finds climate variability affects Ethiopia's economic growth in the long run. Rainfall and temperature fluctuation induce significant negative impacts. A percentage annual temperature variability for instance decreases the Ethiopian annual gross domestic yield (GDP) up to 4.5 percent. In the short run, climate variability particularly rainfall and temperature changes also have a profound effect on Ethiopia's economic output. Within such confirmed climate change impacts, Ethiopia should carry out more on adapting and mitigating the impacts as it is presented on its climate-resilient economic growth policies and strategies. In spite of the policy contribution of the results, the study will motivate further research and will also serve as a benchmark for the coming Ethiopian studies.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1007/S10668-021-01604-9
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“Climate variable choice in Ricardian studies of European Agriculture”. Vaitkeviciute J, Chakir R, Van Passel S, Revue économique 70, 375 (2019). http://doi.org/10.3917/RECO.703.0375
Abstract: The Ricardian model has been employed frequently to study the impact of climate change on European agriculture. This paper contributes to this literature by using a panel data of FADN EU regions and the period 2004-2012 and by taking into account both individual heterogeneity as well as spatial autocorrelation among EU regions. We tested three hypotheses related to the degree days model. Our results show that climate outside the defined growing season matters for European agriculture, and excluding it could underestimate climate change impacts. Our results should support public policy decisions about efficient and effective mitigation and adaptation policy measures in EU agriculture.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.3917/RECO.703.0375
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“Climate-Smart Agriculture in the Northeast of Brazil: An Integrated Assessment of the Aquaponics Technology”. Finizola e Silva M, Van Passel S, Sustainability 12, 3734 (2020). http://doi.org/10.3390/su12093734
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to determine if aquaponic systems can reduce food insecurity in the semi-arid regions of Brazil and generate income for the beneficiaries. Aquaponics is a potentially sustainable way to produce food based on gardening, hydroponics and aquaculture. A case study, based on a project called Aquaponova, was developed. The aquaponic systems currently used in the project are non-commercial and designed for households with limited resources. The data based on six existing systems within this project were used to compare the costs and the benefits. The cost–benefit analysis covers four scenarios and three financing options. The results show that aquaponic systems have a large potential and can reduce food insecurity in semi-arid regions while generating income for the beneficiaries. Even if the system only produces 40% of the total estimated production, the system will still be feasible. However, the low opportunity cost of labour is an essential factor for obtaining these positive results. Moreover, the social benefits, such as a community spirit and the health benefits of the system, should not be underestimated.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; aquaponics; Aquaponova; Brazil; semi-arid region; food insecurity; cost–benefit analysis; socio-economic approach; climate-smart agriculture; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Impact Factor: 3.9
DOI: 10.3390/su12093734
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“Combining Monte Carlo simulations and experimental design for incorporating risk and uncertainty in investment decisions for cleantech : a fast pyrolysis case study”. Kuppens T, Rafiaani P, Vanreppelen K, Yperman J, Carleer R, Schreurs S, Thewys T, Van Passel S, Clean Technologies And Environmental Policy 20, 1195 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10098-018-1543-1
Abstract: The value of phytoextracting crops (plants cultivated for soil remediation) depends on the profitability of the sequential investment in a conversion technology aimed at the economic valorization of the plants. However, the net present value (NPV) of an investment in such an innovative technology is risky due to technical and economic uncertainties. Therefore, decision makers want to dispose of information about the probability of a positive NPV, the largest possible loss, and the crucial economic and technical parameters influencing the NPV. This paper maps the total uncertainty in the NPV of an investment in fast pyrolysis for the production of combined heat and power from willow cultivated for phytoextraction in the Belgian Campine. The probability of a positive NPV has been calculated by performing Monte Carlo simulations. Information about possible losses has been provided by means of experimental design. Both methods are then combined in order to identify the key economic and technical parameters influencing the project's profitability. It appears that the case study has a chance of 87% of generating a positive NPV with an expected value of 3 million euro (MEUR), while worst-case scenarios predict possible losses of 7 MEUR. The amount of arable land, the biomass yield, the purchase price of the crop, the policy support, and the product yield of fast pyrolysis are identified as the most influential parameters. It is concluded that both methods, i.e., Monte Carlo simulations and experimental design, provide decision makers with complementary information with regard to economic risk.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.331
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1007/S10098-018-1543-1
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“Combining photovoltaics and sound barriers : a feasibility study”. De Schepper E, Van Passel S, Manca J, Thewys T, Renewable Energy 46, 297 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RENENE.2012.03.022
Abstract: In the light of global warming, renewables such as solar photovoltaics (PV) are important to decrease greenhouse gas emissions. An important issue regarding implementation of solar panels on large scale, is the limited available area. Therefore, it can be interesting to combine PV with alternative applications, as a ways of not requiring “additional” space. One example is a photovoltaic noise barrier (PVNB), where a noise barrier located along a highway or railway is used as substructure for PV modules. Even though a PVNB is not a novel concept, the absence of economic assessments in literature can be a barrier to their wider implementation. In this paper, a feasibility study of a PVNB in Belgium is conducted, using a cost benefit analysis including a Monte Carlo sensitivity analysis. Besides purely economic aspects, also ecological benefits are monetized. The sensitivity analysis indicates that the ecological benefit of noise reduction, which is valuated using a noise sensitivity depreciation index applied to real estate prices, is of major importance in determining the net present value of the case study. On the contrary, the impact of reducing CO2 emissions seems to be negligible when expressed in monetary terms. The results suggest that the PVNB as a whole and also its separate components -.e. the PV array and the noise barrier can be profitable projects, when ecological benefits are included. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.357
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1016/J.RENENE.2012.03.022
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“Conclusions and recommendations”. Reniers GLL, Sörensen K, Vrancken K page 265 (2013).
Keywords: H1 Book chapter; Engineering Management (ENM); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
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“Confined magnetic guiding orbit states”. Reijniers J, Matulis A, Chang K, Peeters FM, Vasilopoulos P, Europhysics letters 59, 749 (2002). http://doi.org/10.1209/epl/i2002-00189-8
Abstract: We show how snake-orbit states which run along a magnetic edge can be confined electrically. We consider a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) confined into a quantum wire, subjected to a strong perpendicular and steplike magnetic field B/ − B. Close to this magnetic step, new, spatially confined bound states arise as a result of the lateral confinement and the magnetic-field step. The number of states, with energy below the first Landau level, increases as B becomes stronger or as the wire width becomes larger. These bound states can be understood as an interference between two counter-propagating one-dimensional snake-orbit states.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.957
Times cited: 26
DOI: 10.1209/epl/i2002-00189-8
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“Conflict, fraud, and distrust in Ethiopian agricultural cooperatives”. Sebhatu KT, Gezahegn TW, Berhanu T, Maertens M, Van Passel S, D’Haese M, Journal of Co-operative Organization and Management 8, 100106 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcom.2020.100106
Abstract: Agricultural cooperatives are seen as an efficient way for smallholder farmers to create bargaining power in order to achieve poverty reduction and food security. However, the success of these cooperatives depends on their ability to maintain their social capital, which is at the core of collective action. A few studies have addressed issues of member participation, commitment, and trust, yet less is known about rural cooperatives in developing countries as a social organization. It is also unclear whether a relationship exists between cooperative size and the incidence of conflict, fraud, and distrust. Using unique data collected from 511 agricultural cooperatives in 12 districts of Tigray region in northern Ethiopia, this paper examines the effects of cooperative size on conflict, fraud, and distrust. We used instrumental variables (IV) probit estimation techniques, accounting for endogeneity of membership size, to confirm that cooperative size does affect the occurrence of conflict, fraud, and trust. The results also indicate that other influencing factors include: cooperative age, number of employees, payment of dividends based on transaction volume, and heterogeneity of member goals.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Agricultural cooperatives; Cooperative size; Conflict; Fraud; Distrust; Ethiopia; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
DOI: 10.1016/j.jcom.2020.100106
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“Conserving African biosphere reserves : a workshop on the valuation of ecosystem services in Man and the Biosphere Reserves”. Janssens de Bisthoven L, Rochette A-J, Verheyen E, Akpona TJ-D, Verbist B, Vanderhaegen K, Naturinda Z, Van Passel S, Berihun D, Munishi L, Hugé, J, Oryx 53, 609 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1017/S003060531900070X
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM); Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)
Impact Factor: 2.191
DOI: 10.1017/S003060531900070X
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“Cost-effectiveness analysis of ecosystem management with ecosystem services : from theory to practice”. Boerema A, Van Passel S, Meire P, Ecological Economics 152, 207 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2018.06.005
Abstract: Integrated ecosystem management is challenging due to many, often conflicting, targets and limited resources to allocate. A valuable and straightforward approach is to integrate an ecosystem services assessment in a cost-effectiveness analysis as method to evaluate and compare the cost-effectiveness of several management scenarios to reach one or more objectives and take into account the potential effects on other ecosystem functions and services. Nevertheless, this method is not commonly used in ecosystem management evaluation but can provide an alternative for the frequently used but often contested cost-benefit analysis (which requires the step of assigning a monetary value to each benefit). The aim of this study is to apply the cost-effectiveness analysis in combination with an ecosystem services assessment on a real case-study (comparing alternative management strategies for estuaries) to derive lessons learned to go from theory to practice. The application of this method for the case-study reveals many remaining challenges such as data availability and knowledge to assess ecosystem effects of management measures. Nevertheless, the analysis demonstrates that this method can be used for making a more integrated evaluation and supporting better-informed management decisions.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Ecosystem Management
Impact Factor: 2.965
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2018.06.005
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“Cost-efficient emission abatement of energy and transportation technologies : mitigation costs and policy impacts for Belgium”. De Schepper E, Van Passel S, Lizin S, Achten WMJ, Van Acker K, Clean Technologies And Environmental Policy 16, 1107 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10098-014-0713-Z
Abstract: In the light of global warming, this paper develops a framework to compare energy and transportation technologies in terms of cost-efficient GHG emission reduction. We conduct a simultaneous assessment of economic and environmental performances through life cycle costing and life cycle assessment. To calculate the GHG mitigation cost, we create reference systems within the base scenario. Further, we extend the concept of the mitigation cost, allowing (i) comparision of technologies given a limited investment resource, and (ii) evaluation of the direct impact of policy measures by means of the subsidized mitigation cost. The framework is illustrated with a case of solar photovoltaics (PV), grid powered battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and solar powered BEVs for a Belgian small and medium sized enterprise. The study's conclusions are that the mitigation cost of solar PV is high, even though this is a mature technology. The emerging mass produced BEVs on the other hand are found to have a large potential for cost-efficient GHG mitigation as indicated by their low cost of mitigation. Finally, based on the subsidized mitigation cost, we conclude that the current financial stimuli for all three investigated technologies are excessive when compared to the CO2 market value under the EU Emission Trading Scheme.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.331
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1007/S10098-014-0713-Z
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“Determinants of commercial bank loan and advance disbursement : the case of private Ethiopian commercial banks”. Birhanu T, Deressa SB, Azadi H, Viira A-H, Van Passel S, Witlox F, International journal of bank marketing 39, 1227 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1108/IJBM-05-2021-0166
Abstract: Purpose This paper aimed to investigate the determinants of loans and advances from commercial banks in the case of Ethiopian private commercial banks. Design/methodology/approach The study randomly selected seven commercial banks to represent the population stratified on their asset, deposit and paid-up capital amounts. The study utilized an unbalanced panel data model as each bank started operation at a different period of time and considered the period 1995-2016 for secondary details. Findings The findings showed that the deposit size, credit risk, portfolio investment, average lending rate, real gross domestic product (GDP) and inflation rate had significant and optimistic effects on the lending and advancement of private commercial banks. On the contrary, liquidity ratio had significant and negative effects on private commercial bank loans and advances. Finally, the study forwarded a feasible recommendation for concerned organs to focus on deposit size, credit risk, portfolio investment, average lending rate, real GDP, inflation rate and liquidity ratio. The results of this study will help banking industry policymakers and planners understand how to minimize inflation and unemployment by improving development and sustainable economic growth. Originality/value The findings of this study can also affect the general attitudes of a society by increasing knowledge and improve the quality of life for the general public.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1108/IJBM-05-2021-0166
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“Determinants of internal governance quality : evidence from corporations in Ethiopia”. Adane YG, Engida TG, Asfaw YA, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Cogent economics &, finance 6, 1537051 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1080/23322039.2018.1537051
Abstract: The study analysed the factors that affect the internal governance quality of corporations in Ethiopia. It performed an ordered logistic regression analysis on a randomly selected sample of 76 corporations to analyse the effect of the ownership structure, form of ownership (private or government), leverage, corporate size, and sales growth on the internal governance quality score (IGQS). The governance quality score was measured using 20 indices categorized into four perspectives: disclosure, board characteristics, ethics, and shareholder rights. In this study, a significant positive effect of the corporate size and sales growth on the IGQS was found. In addition, government-owned corporations were found to perform better than privately owned corporations. It is recommended that appropriate authorities and officials should encourage the use of the corporate governance system in privately owned corporations and the convergence of internal governance quality of the two groups of corporations to the highest level.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1080/23322039.2018.1537051
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“Determinants of risk behaviour : effects of perceived risks and risk attitude on farmer's adoption of risk management strategies”. van Winsen F, de Mey Y, Lauwers L, Van Passel S, Vancauteren M, Wauters E, Journal Of Risk Research 19, 56 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1080/13669877.2014.940597
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sociology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.34
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1080/13669877.2014.940597
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