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Author Hugé, J.; Rochette, Aj.; de Béthune, S.; Parra Paitan, Cc.; Vanderhaegen, K.; Vandervelden, T.; Van Passel, S.; Vanhove, Mp.m.; Verbist, B.; Verheyen, D.; Waas, T.; Janssens, I.; Janssens de Bisthoven, L.
Title Ecosystem services assessment tools for African Biosphere Reserves: A review and user-informed classification Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Ecosystem Services Abbreviated Journal (down) Ecosyst Serv
Volume 42 Issue Pages 101079
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract While the concept of ecosystem services which links biodiversity to human wellbeing, is by now well-known, its translation into actual management decisions is still uneven. African Biosphere Reserves, which are to be living labs for sustainable development, embody the idea of synergies between people and nature. Gaining knowledge about the provision, the use and the trends of ecosystem services in these reserves is essential to ensure their global change-proof management. The diversity of rapidly evolving ecosystem services assessment tools requires a systematic and informed selection, in order to ensure that prospective tool users select the most adequate tool, aligned to their needs and context. Based on a Delphi survey of future tool users, and on a review of ecosystem services assessment tools, we propose guidance to users to select the most suited tool based on the context of African Biosphere Reserves, and on tool requirements regarding data input, necessary skills, outputs and types of ecosystem services addressed. The use of the Delphi survey and the focus on African Biosphere Reserves are new elements that contribute to the theory and practice of ecosystem services assessment.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000522223700008 Publication Date 2020-03-19
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2212-0416 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.6 Times cited Open Access
Notes The authors wish to thank all Delphi participants. The authors ac- knowledge the financial support of the UNESCO MAB Programme and the Belgian Science Policy, within the frame of the EVAMAB project; the Belgian Development Cooperation for its support to CEBioS; the KLIMOS Acropolis Research Platform funded by the Flemish Inter- University Council – University Development Cooperation VLIR UOS; the Global Minds Post-Doctoral Fellowship Program of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel and VLIR UOS. This manuscript is one of the out- puts of Work Package 1 of the EVAMAB Project (Economic valuation of ecosystem services in Biosphere Reserves: testing effective rapid as- sessment methods in selected African Biosphere Reserves). Approved Most recent IF: 7.6; 2020 IF: 4.072
Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:167256 Serial 6349
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Author Sharafi, L.; Zarafshani, K.; Keshavarz, M.; Azadi, H.; Van Passel, S.
Title Drought risk assessment: Towards drought early warning system and sustainable environment in western Iran Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Ecological Indicators Abbreviated Journal (down) Ecological Indicators
Volume 114 Issue Pages 106276
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Drought; Early warning system; Risk management; Vulnerability; Environmental risk; Resilient farming; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract Prolonged drought is considered as a creeping natural hazard, which has created a financial burden and unsustainable environment in Iran. Moreover, the effect of drought phenomenon in rural areas is more extensive, causing significant challenges to the rural economy in general and agricultural production in particular. A common strategy to manage drought is based on crisis management (ex-ante). However, for effective drought management, risk management seems to be more in line with drought early warning systems. This quantitative study used risk assessment, which is the function of two elements such as hazard (SPI and SDI indices) and vulnerability (exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity). This study aims to build the foundations for drought early warning systems in limited resource areas such as Kermanshah Township in the northwestern part of Iran. The population of this study comprised of wheat farmers in which 293 farmers were selected using multistage cluster sampling method. In the next step, the drought risk map for Kermanshah Township was developed, which revealed that the majority of villages are at intense environmental risk. The result of this study has implications for drought management practitioners. For example, the results can aid policymakers in the design of an early warning system in order to reduce risk and thus empower farmers toward resilient farming.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000559966500006 Publication Date 2020-04-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1470160X ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:170071 Serial 6380
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Author Al Masud, M.M.; Moni, N.N.; Azadi, H.; Van Passel, S.
Title Sustainability impacts of tidal river management : towards a conceptual framework Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Ecological Indicators Abbreviated Journal (down) Ecol Indic
Volume 85 Issue 85 Pages 451-467
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The Southwest Coastal people of Bangladesh have introduced Tidal River Management (TRM) as an environmentally acceptable water resource management practice based on their indigenous knowledge of water logging of low lying coastal land. TRM helps to address problems resulting from different anthropogenic and structural development activities, and it has been successful in helping coastal communities to adapt to climate change and rising sea level vulnerability by forming new land in Tidal Basins. Hence, it is essential to measure sustainability impacts of TRM from the environmental, socio-economic and institutional perspectives. Therefore, firstly, the study identifies sustainability indicators of TRM considering ecosystem services and secondly, develops an inclusive conceptual framework to understand the important impacts of each indicator at various spatial and temporal scales. The conceptual framework is followed by the construction of a Sustainability Index of Tidal River Management (SITRM). It has advantages over the Ramsar Convention framework (2007) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) framework (2012) to measure water sustainability as it includes a sustainable model to project future vulnerability of the community, river and Tidal Basin, emphasizing on climate change issues. It also involves trade-offs analysis, livelihood analysis and SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis for a complete impact assessment to enable decision-makers to focus on those services most likely to be of risks and weaknesses or opportunities and strengths for the sustainability of TRM. Moreover, the framework is a useful guide for policymakers in identifying the sustainability impacts of TRM so that they can choose best coping strategies for coastal people to effectively deal with adverse effects of water-logging and undesired climatic events as well as environmental and socio-economic changes in coastal areas.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000430634500046 Publication Date 2017-11-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1470-160x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.898 Times cited 7 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.898
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:149039 Serial 6254
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Author Ang, F.; Van Passel, S.
Title The sustainable value approach : a clarifying and constructive comment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2010 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal (down) Ecol Econ
Volume 69 Issue 12 Pages 2303-2306
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract Recently, the original benchmarking methodology of the Sustainable Value approach became subjected to serious debate. While Kuosmanen and Kuosmanen (2009b) critically question its validity introducing productive efficiency theory, Figge and Hahn (2009) put forward that the implementation of productive efficiency theory severely conflicts with the original financial economics perspective of the Sustainable Value approach. We argue that the debate is very confusing because the original Sustainable Value approach presents two largely incompatible objectives. Nevertheless, we maintain that both ways of benchmarking could provide useful and moreover complementary insights. If one intends to present the overall resource efficiency of the firm from the investor's viewpoint, we recommend the original benchmarking methodology. If one on the other hand aspires to create a prescriptive tool setting up some sort of reallocation scheme, we advocate implementation of the productive efficiency theory. Although the discussion on benchmark application is certainly substantial, we should avoid the debate to become accordingly narrowed. Next to the benchmark concern, we see several other challenges considering the development of the Sustainable Value approach: (1) a more systematic resource selection, (2) the inclusion of the value chain and (3) additional analyses related to policy in order to increase interpretative power.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000283700900001 Publication Date 2010-07-30
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 18 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965; 2010 IF: 2.754
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:136760 Serial 6258
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Author Daniels, S.; Bellmore, J.R.; Benjamin, J.R.; Witters, N.; Vangronsveld, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Quantification of the indirect use value of functional group diversity based on the ecological role of species in the ecosystem Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal (down) Ecol Econ
Volume 153 Issue 153 Pages 181-194
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract An important issue in biodiversity valuation is gaining a better understanding of how biodiversity conservation affects economic activities and human welfare. Quantifying the economic benefits of biodiversity for human well-being is not straightforward. Here, we expand the ecosystem service cascade by (i) attributing a methodology to the different steps of the cascade to assess the effects of changes in functional group diversity on economic activities; (ii) including multiple attributes for defining functional diversity and (iii) integrating a dynamic ecological model simulating complex interactions and feedbacks between species with an economic model assessing the effects of changes in functional group diversity for gross revenues. The stepwise methodological framework integrates a production function approach with a market price-based approach in order to investigate the indirect use value of functional group diversity based on the ecological role of species in the ecosystem. The methodology is applied to estimate the relationship between the gross economic value of Chinook salmon (Pacific Northwest, United States) and the diversity of freshwater macroinvertebrates. The results of our analysis emphasize the importance of biological diversity for sustaining ecosystem goods and services. The analysis provides a tractable framework for quantitatively exploring the economic consequences of changes in functional group diversity.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000443669200016 Publication Date 2018-07-31
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
Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to thank Ken Bagstad for his valuable comments. The research was made possible with the financial aid from a BOF grant of the Centre for Environmental Sciences (CMK, Hasselt University, BE) (BSFFEEC-R4270). Nele Witters is funded by Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO). Any use of trade, firm, or product names is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153598 Serial 6239
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Author Jouzi, Z.; Azadi, H.; Taheri, F.; Zarafshani, K.; Gebrehiwot, K.; Van Passel, S.; Lebailly, P.
Title Organic farming and small-scale farmers : main opportunities and challenges Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal (down) 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.
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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 39 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139034 Serial 6233
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Author Daniels, S.; Witters, N.; Beliën, T.; Vrancken, K.; Vangronsveld, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Monetary valuation of natural predators for biological pest control in pear production Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal (down) Ecol Econ
Volume 134 Issue Pages 160-173
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract In spite of global actions, biodiversity is declining at an alarming rate. Despite the need for objectively comparable monetary standards to include biodiversity arguments in policymaking, research on the relationship between species diversity and its valuation from a societal perspective is still scarce. In this paper, a methodological framework for the valuation of natural predators based on their ecological role in the agroecosystem is introduced. The framework integrates a dynamic ecological model simulating interactions between species with an economic model, thereby quantifying the effect of reduced numbers of natural predators on the net farm income. The model attributes an objective monetary value to increased species diversity through the changes in the provisioning of a marketable good. Results indicate that the loss of three predators could decrease net farm income with 88.86 ha− 1 to 2186.5 ha− 1. For the pear production sector in Flanders in 2011, this constitutes to an indirect use value of 0,68 million for one predator and 16.63 million for the presence of three predators. The aim is to provide a justification for the argument for biodiversity conservation, based on the ecological function of species, through the delivery of comparable monetary standards.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000395219300018 Publication Date 2017-01-26
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 4 Open Access
Notes ; The research was made possible with the financial aid from a BOF grant of the Centre for Environmental Sciences (CMK, Hasselt University). Nele Witters is funded by Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO). The authors would like to thank Ellen Elias from Symbio for providing relevant data and insights into the complex interplay between pest insects, natural predators and human impacts from fertilizers and pesticide use. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:140685 Serial 6228
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Author Van Passel, S.; Nevens, F.; Mathijs, E.; Van Huylenbroeck, G.
Title Measuring farm sustainability and explaining differences in sustainable efficiency Type A1 Journal article
Year 2007 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal (down) 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.
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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 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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Author Pour, M.D.; Motiee, N.; Barati, A.A.; Taheri, F.; Azadi, H.; Gebrehiwot, K.; Lebailly, P.; Van Passel, S.; Witlox, F.
Title Impacts of the Hara biosphere reserve on livelihood and welfare in Persian Gulf Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal (down) Ecol Econ
Volume 141 Issue Pages 76-86
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Despite the importance of biosphere reserves in Iran's livelihood and welfare, the economic significance of Hara Biosphere Reserve has never been comprehensively studied. This study examines the current importance of Hara Biosphere Reserve (HBR) in local livelihood and welfare. Using a household survey, data were collected through a questionnaire, key informant interviews and direct observations. Two hundred and forty-four households were randomly selected from 10 villages through proportional sampling. Results showed that non-environmental income was the first driver of the total income, poverty alleviation and narrowing income inequality gap. Park income was the second. The results also showed that excluding park income from total income would significantly increase headcount poverty, widen the poverty gap, and raise the Gini coefficient. Wealthier households had the greatest absolute income from the environment, including forest, fishing and fodder. However, the poorest group had smallest absolute income from these sources. Thus, the study demonstrated that wealthier households are responsible for the overharvesting of environmental resources. Interestingly, the study showed that wealthier households are more dependent on profitable environmental incomes sources while the poorest are more dependent on non-profitable ones. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000410013200008 Publication Date 2017-06-02
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 7 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:145602 Serial 6214
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Author Boerema, A.; Van Passel, S.; Meire, P.
Title Cost-effectiveness analysis of ecosystem management with ecosystem services : from theory to practice Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal (down) Ecol Econ
Volume 152 Issue 152 Pages 207-218
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Ecosystem Management
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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000440118700021 Publication Date 2018-06-19
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
Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited 2 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:151754 Serial 6173
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Author Ang, F.; Van Passel, S.; Mathijs, E.
Title An aggregate resource efficiency perspective on sustainability : a sustainable value application to the EU-15 countries Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal (down) Ecol Econ
Volume 71 Issue Pages 99-110
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract The Sustainable Value approach integrates the efficiency with regard to environmental, social and economic resources into a monetary indicator. It gained significant popularity as evidenced by diverse applications at the corporate level. However, its introduction as a measure adhering to the strong sustainability paradigm sparked an ardent debate. This study explores its validity as a macroeconomic strong sustainability measure by applying the Sustainable Value approach to the EU-15 countries. Concretely, we assessed environmental, social and economic resources in combination with the GDP for all EU-15 countries from 1995 to 2006 for three benchmark alternatives. The results show that several countries manage to adequately delink resource use from GDP growth. Furthermore, the remarkable difference in outcome between the national and EU-15 benchmark indicates a possible inefficiency of the current allocation of national resource ceilings imposed by the European institutions. Additionally, by using an effects model we argue that the service degree of the economy and governmental expenditures on social protection and research and development are important determinants of overall resource efficiency. Finally, we sketch out three necessary conditions to link the Sustainable Value approach to the strong sustainability paradigm. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000297396700011 Publication Date 2011-09-28
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 12 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965; 2011 IF: 2.713
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127560 Serial 6151
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Author Moretti, M.; Vanschoenwinkel, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Accounting for externalities in cross-sectional economic models of climate change impacts Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal (down) Ecol Econ
Volume 185 Issue Pages 107058
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Environmental effects and natural resources depletion associated with agriculture production affect the agriculture response to climate change. Traditional cross-sectional climate response models ignore this requirement. This research estimates the impact of climate on European agriculture using a continental scale Ricardian analysis. We correct farm income by accounting for resources (energy, fertilisers, pesticides, and water) use intensity and calculate the sustainable value for a sample of 9497 specialized field crop farms. Compared with the traditional Ricardian method, the marginal effects of temperature remain positive (but less positive) in Northern countries, while it leads to less damages in Southern countries when net revenue and farms? sustainable values are used as dependent variables. Accounting for the environmental effects and depletion of natural capital improves the ability of the Ricardian method to estimate agriculture climate response functions in the long run.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000647544700012 Publication Date 2021-04-05
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
Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178955 Serial 6911
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Author Van Oijstaeijen, W.; Van Passel, S.; Back, P.; Cools, J.
Title The politics of green infrastructure : a discrete choice experiment with Flemish local decision-makers Type Administrative Services
Year 2022 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal (down) Ecol Econ
Volume 199 Issue Pages 107493-18
Keywords Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Being confronted with increasing and expanding urbanisation and the loss of natural green spaces, our living environment is threatened more and more by the effects of global climate change. Green infrastructure is often thought of as the solution to increase climate resilience and reinforce the quality of the lived environment simultaneously. While the benefits, or ecosystem services, that are generated through green infrastructure have been studied intensively, forces that influence green infrastructure decision-making have been far less subjected to thorough research. In this study a discrete choice experiment was conducted with local decision makers in Flemish municipalities to reveal crucial factors in the decision process applied to green infrastructure projects. Flanders is one of the most densely built regions in Europe, stressing the urgency to understand local spatial decision factors to guarantee green space. 568 decision makers active in the local administration of 235 Flemish municipalities participated in the experiment, set in a hypothetical neighbourhood park. Every choice alternative exists of five attributes: investment cost, maintenance cost, deferred investment, recreational value, and climate impact. We find that barriers hampering Flemish munipalities' GI implementation, differ over size of the municipality: smallers municipalities are more affected by knowledge gaps, while larger municipalities are experiencing prioritization issues. Results from hierarchical Bayes choice models indicate that municipal decisions on green infrastructure are highly – almost solely -cost-driven, rarely consider the full range of benefits, and centre around short-term and immediate arguments. Moreover, interaction models reveal that a municipalities' financial result is a key determinant of its willingness to invest in public greening and consider long term benefits, suggesting that GI is a luxury good. The results expose some of the heuristics in GI decision making and can be used to inform higher authorities on ways to overcome barriers towards informed decision-making and to facilitate GI investment.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000811715200008 Publication Date 2022-06-08
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 7 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189018 Serial 7371
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Author Bjørnåvold, A.; David, M.; Bohan, D.A.; Gibert, C.; Rousselle, J.-M.; Van Passel, S.
Title Why does France not meet its pesticide reduction targets? Farmers' socio-economic trade-offs when adopting agro-ecological practices Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal (down) Ecol Econ
Volume 198 Issue Pages 107440-28
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Despite substantial policy efforts made by the French government to reduce dependence on pesticides, farming practices are only changing slowly. This paper analyses the socio-economic trade-offs that 110 farmers are currently facing in the transition to agro-ecological practices. A mixed-method approach – a quantitative discrete choice experiment (DCE) and qualitative interviews – was set up to understand these farmers' motivations and perspectives, and how policy can improve to accompany them on the road to low chemical input farming. Results of the DCE indicate that the majority of the farmers in our sample are keen to change practices but are at a loss as to how this can be done, as a number of preferences for this transition came out as inconclusive. Qualitative interviews with a representative sample of the farmers that took part in the DCE complemented this result by illustrating a deep uncertainty for the future and a disconnect felt between authorities and themselves as a group. We argue that this uncertainty contributed to a lack of clear-cut solutions established through the DCE. The indepth discussions with farmers illustrated the wish for concrete and local policy measures based on farmers' networks and peer support.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000802083900003 Publication Date 2022-05-07
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
Impact Factor 7 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:188764 Serial 7375
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Author Vanschoenwinkel, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Climate response of rainfed versus irrigated farms: the bias of farm heterogeneity in irrigation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Climatic Change Abbreviated Journal (down) Climatic Change
Volume 147 Issue 1-2 Pages 225-234
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000425959700017 Publication Date 2018-01-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0165-0009 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.496 Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes ; This paper was supported by the Horizon 2020 project SUFISA (Grant Agreement No. 635577). ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.496
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:149895 Serial 6166
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Author Fabri, C.; Moretti, M.; Van Passel, S.
Title On the (ir)relevance of heatwaves in climate change impacts on European agriculture Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Climatic Change Abbreviated Journal (down) Climatic Change
Volume 174 Issue 1-2 Pages 16-20
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The Ricardian model is a widely used approach based on cross-sectional regression analysis to estimate climate change impacts on agricultural productivity. Up until now, researchers have focused on the impacts of gradual changes in temperature and precipitation, even though climate change is known to encompass also changes in the severity and frequency of extreme weather events. This research investigates the impact of heatwaves on European agriculture, additional to the impact of average climate change. Using a dataset of more than 60,000 European farms, the study examines whether adding a measure for heatwaves to the Ricardian model influences its results. We find that heatwaves have a minor impact on agricultural productivity and that this impact is moderated by average temperature. In colder regions, farm productivity increases with the number of heatwave days. For warmer regions, land values decrease with heatwave frequency. Despite the moderating effect, the marginal effect of heatwave frequency, i.e. the percentage change in agricultural land values caused by one more heatwave day per year, is small in comparison to the effect of average temperature increases. Non-marginal effects are found to be relevant, but only in the case of increased heatwave frequency. According to our results, farms are not expected to suffer more from extreme weather than from mean climate change, as was claimed by several previous studies.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000861873100002 Publication Date 2022-09-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0165-0009; 1573-1480 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 4.8 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.8
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191483 Serial 7364
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Author Jamshidi, O.; Asadi, A.; Kalantari, K.; Movahhed Moghaddam, S.; Dadrass Javan, F.; Azadi, H.; Van Passel, S.; Witlox, F.
Title Adaptive capacity of smallholder farmers toward climate change: evidence from Hamadan province in Iran Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Climate And Development Abbreviated Journal (down) Clim Dev
Volume Issue Pages 1-11
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Adaptive capacity; cross sectional survey; socio-economic variables; adaptation strategies; Hamadan province; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract The global climate is changing, and farmers must increase their adaptive capacity to avoid negative impacts. This study aimed to examine the adaptive capacity of farmers’ household to tolerate climate changes and identify factors affecting the climate in Hamadan province, Iran. The adaptive capacity was evaluated quantitatively by using 23 indicators and was categorized into high, moderate, low, and very low adaptive capacity. The study was based on a cross sectional survey and was conducted with a random sample of 280 household farmers distributed in five counties of Hamadan province in the west of the country whose climatic data revealed signs of climate change. The result showed that farmers’ negative perception toward climate change generally increases during dry seasons and decreases when the precipitation and water resources are more available. Regarding the available information, only 15% of farmers had a high level of adaptive capacity, while 10% of them were highly adapted, and 27.5% showed a very low level of adaptive capacity. Adaptive capacity in the current study was influenced by some socio-economic variables including total farm size, irrigated farm size, number of agricultural land plots, and perception and knowledge of climate change.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000509193400001 Publication Date 2020-01-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1756-5529 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.051 Times cited Open Access
Notes The authors appreciate the comments of the anonymous reviewers and would like to thank them for their constructive feedback. Frank Witlox acknowledges funding received from the Estonian Research Council (PUT PRG306). Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:166572 Serial 6378
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Author Thomassen, G.; Egiguren Vila, U.; Van Dael, M.; Lemmens, B.; Van Passel, S.
Title A techno-economic assessment of an algal-based biorefinery Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Clean Technologies And Environmental Policy Abbreviated Journal (down) 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.
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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 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 De Schepper, E.; Van Passel, S.; Lizin, S.; Achten, W.M.J.; Van Acker, K.
Title Cost-efficient emission abatement of energy and transportation technologies : mitigation costs and policy impacts for Belgium Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Clean Technologies And Environmental Policy Abbreviated Journal (down) Clean Technol Envir
Volume 16 Issue 6 Pages 1107-1118
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000339874900010 Publication Date 2014-02-12
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
Impact Factor 3.331 Times cited 14 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.331; 2014 IF: 1.934
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127543 Serial 6175
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Author Kuppens, T.; Rafiaani, P.; Vanreppelen, K.; Yperman, J.; Carleer, R.; Schreurs, S.; Thewys, T.; Van Passel, S.
Title Combining Monte Carlo simulations and experimental design for incorporating risk and uncertainty in investment decisions for cleantech : a fast pyrolysis case study Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Clean Technologies And Environmental Policy Abbreviated Journal (down) Clean Technol Envir
Volume 20 Issue 6 Pages 1195-1206
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000439453500007 Publication Date 2018-05-25
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 5 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.331
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:152385 Serial 6169
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Tytgat, T.; Van Passel, S.; Martens, J.A.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Cost-effectiveness analysis to assess commercial TiO2 photocatalysts for acetaldehyde degradation in air Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Chemicke zvesti Abbreviated Journal (down) Chem Pap
Volume 68 Issue 9 Pages 1273-1278
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In the commercialisation of photocatalytic air purifiers, the performance as well as the cost of the catalytic material plays an important role. Where most comparative studies only regard the photocatalytic activity as a decisive parameter, in this study both activity and cost are taken into account. Using a cost-effectiveness analysis, six different commercially available TiO2-based catalysts are evaluated in terms of their activities in photocatalytic degradation of acetaldehyde as a model reaction for indoor air purification.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000336443400015 Publication Date 2014-02-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0366-6352 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.258 Times cited 10 Open Access
Notes ; S. W. V. wishes to thank the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for the financial support received. The authors are grateful to the University of Antwerp for supporting and funding this research. Evonik is sincerely thanked for providing catalyst samples for our experiments free of charge. All companies are thanked for providing specific pricing data. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.258; 2014 IF: 1.468
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:117297 Serial 6174
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Author Brienza, F.; Van Aelst, K.; Devred, F.; Magnin, D.; Tschulkow, M.; Nimmegeers, P.; Van Passel, S.; Sels, B.F.; Gerin, P.; Debecker, D.P.; Cybulska, I.
Title Unleashing lignin potential through the dithionite-assisted organosolv fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Chemical Engineering Journal Abbreviated Journal (down) Chem Eng J
Volume 450 Issue 3 Pages 138179-14
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract The development of biomass pretreatment approaches that, next to (hemi)cellulose valorization, aim at the conversion of lignin to chemicals is essential for the long-term success of a biorefinery. Herein, we discuss a dithionite-assisted organosolv fractionation (DAOF) of lignocellulose in n-butanol and water to produce cellulosic pulp and mono-/oligo-aromatics. The study frames the technicalities of this biorefinery process and relates them to the features of the obtained product streams. We comprehensively identify and quantify all products of interest: solid pulp (acid hydrolysis-HPLC, ATR-FTIR, XRD, SEM, enzymatic hydrolysis-HPLC), lignin derivatives (GPC, GC-MS/FID, 1H-13C HSQC NMR, ICP-AES), and carbohydrate derivatives (HPLC). These results were used for inspecting the economic feasibility of DAOF. In the best process configuration, a high yield of monophenolics was reached (~20%, based on acid insoluble lignin in birch sawdust). Various other lignocellulosic feedstocks were also explored, showing that DAOF is particularly effective on hardwood and herbaceous biomass. Overall, this study demonstrates that DAOF is a viable fractionation method for the sustainable upgrading of lignocellulosic biomass.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000888204900005 Publication Date 2022-07-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947; 1873-3212 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 15.1 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 15.1
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189322 Serial 7373
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Author Zhang, Y.; Sahoo, P.K.; Ren, P.; Qin, Y.; Cauwenbergh, R.; Nimmegeers, P.; Gandhi, S.R.; Van Passel, S.; Guidetti, A.; Das, S.
Title Transition metal-free approach for the late-stage benzylic C(sp3)-H etherifications and esterifications Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Chemical Communications Abbreviated Journal (down) Chem Commun
Volume 58 Issue 81 Pages 11454-11457
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM); Organic synthesis (ORSY); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract Herein, we report a transition metal-free approach for the regioselective functionalisation of benzylic C(sp3)-H bonds using alcohols and carboxylic acids as the nucleophiles. This approach provides a straightforward route for the synthesis of various benzylic ethers and esters to provide a wide generality of this system. Expediently, twelve pharmaceutically relevant compounds have been synthesized using this strategy.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000857171200001 Publication Date 2022-09-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1359-7345; 1364-548x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.9
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190191 Serial 7372
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Author Ang, F.; Van Passel, S.
Title Beyond the environmentalist's paradox and the debate on weak versus strong sustainability Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Bioscience Abbreviated Journal (down) Bioscience
Volume 62 Issue 3 Pages 251-259
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000301561900008 Publication Date 2012-03-07
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0006-3568 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.378 Times cited 17 Open Access
Notes ; We thank three anonymous reviewers for their helpful comments. This aiticle has benefited considerably from interesting discussions (especially with Liesbet Vranken) at the 13th Belgian PhD Symposium of Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics, Brussels, on 27 April 2011. We are grateful for the financial support of the European Fund for Regional Development project 475, Closing the Circle. ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.378; 2012 IF: 4.739
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127559 Serial 6160
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Author Thomassen, G.; Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.
Title The potential of microalgae biorefineries in Belgium and India : an environmental techno-economic assessment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Bioresource Technology Abbreviated Journal (down) Bioresource Technol
Volume 267 Issue 267 Pages 271-280
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This study performs an environmental techno-economic assessment (ETEA) for multiple microalgae biorefinery concepts at different locations, those being Belgium and India. The ETEA methodology, which integrates aspects of the TEA and LCA methodologies and provides a clear framework for an integrated assessment model, has been proposed and discussed. The scenario in India has a higher profitability with a NPV of (sic)40 million over a period of 10 years, while the environmental impact in Belgium is lower. The inclusion of a medium recycling step provides the best scenario from both perspectives. The crucial parameters for feasibility are the beta-caroteneprice and content, the upstream environmental impact of electricity and the maximum biomass concentration during cultivation. The identification of these parameters by the ETEA guides future technology developments and shortens the time-to-market for microalgal-based biorefineries.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000441876100034 Publication Date 2018-07-10
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0960-8524 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.651 Times cited 8 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.651
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153599 Serial 6270
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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.
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 (down) 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.
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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 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 Maes, D.; Van Passel, S.
Title Effective bioeconomy policies for the uptake of innovative technologies under resource constraints Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal (down) Biomass Bioenerg
Volume 120 Issue 120 Pages 91-106
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The bioeconomy is a shared vision for a future European industry entirely based on organic matter. Authorities support this technological development with subsidies and policies stimulating R&D. One major limitation for the bioeconomy is that R&D and industrial growth require the continuous availability of biomass as a primary resource. This resource dependence is already present during the formative years of new biobased innovations and influences the pilot and demonstration phase of the development. Traditionally, it is assumed that public support for pilot and demonstration initiatives may overcome this hurdle. In this paper, we investigate how this resource constraint limits the effectiveness of bioeconomy policies. The future development of the biobased sector is simulated including the inherent dependence of industrial activity on biomass. We simulate the future growth and technological diversity of an emerging biotechnological sector: the sector of manure transformation in Belgium. The paper reports the evolutions for three policy scenarios. The model explicitly accounts for endogenous innovation and knowledge transfer mechanisms. The results show that policies may have an important impact on the sector structure in the long run, but the sector growth remains ultimately constrained by the availability of inputs. So bioeconomy policies to promote innovation will be less effective, unless mechanisms are included to alleviate the resource constraint.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000454887700011 Publication Date 2018-11-22
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 3 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.219
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:156757 Serial 6191
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Author Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.; Pelkmans, L.; Guisson, R.; Swinnen, G.; Schreurs, E.
Title Determining potential locations for biomass valorization using a macro screening approach Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal (down) 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.
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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 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 Martinez-Villarreal, S.; Breitenstein, A.; Nimmegeers, P.; Perez Saura, P.; Hai, B.; Asomaning, J.; Eslami, A.A.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.; Bressler, D.C.; Debecker, D.P.; Remacle, C.; Richel, A.
Title Drop-in biofuels production from microalgae to hydrocarbons : microalgal cultivation and harvesting, conversion pathways, economics and prospects for aviation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal (down) Biomass Bioenerg
Volume 165 Issue Pages 106555-22
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract In the last few years, governments all around the world have agreed upon migrating towards carbon-neutral economies as a strategy for restraining the effects of climate change. A major obstacle limiting this achievement is greenhouse gases emissions, for which the aviation sector is a key contributor because of its dependence on fossil fuels. As an alternative, biofuels with similar characteristics to current fossil-fuels and fully compatible with the existing petroleum infrastructure (i.e., drop-in biofuels) are being developed. In this regard, microalgae are a promising feedstock thanks to, among other aspects, their potential for lipid accumulation. This review outlines the development status, opportunities, and challenges of different technologies that are capable of or applicable to transform microalgae into aviation fuels. To this effect, a baseline of the existing jet fuels and the requirements for potential aviation biofuels is initially presented. Then, microalgae production and valorization techniques are discussed with an emphasis on the thermochemical pathways. Finally, an assessment of the present techno-economic feasibility of microalgae-derived aviation fuels is discussed, along with the authors’ point of view on the suitability of these techniques. Further developments are needed to reduce the costs of cultivation and harvesting of microalgae, and a biorefinery approach might improve the economics of the overall process. In addition, while each of the conversion routes described has its advantages and drawbacks, they converge upon the need of optimizing the deoxygenation techniques and the proportion of the suitable type of hydrocarbons that match fuel requirements.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000861095400001 Publication Date 2022-08-30
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 6 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189953 Serial 7354
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Author Van Dael, M.; Marquez, N.; Reumerman, P.; Pelkmans, L.; Kuppens, T.; Van Passel, S.
Title Development and techno-economic evaluation of a biorefinery based on biomass (waste) streams : case study in the Netherlands Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Biofuels Bioproducts & Biorefining-Biofpr Abbreviated Journal (down) Biofuel Bioprod Bior
Volume 8 Issue 5 Pages 635-644
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract In this paper, the technical and economic advantages of combining conversion technologies into a multi-dimensional plant primarily using regional biomass residues are investigated. The main objective is to show how locally available biomass can be used more efficiently as a source for renewable energy and bio-based products. Therefore, not only is the theoretical perspective considered, but also a reality check for the local situation is taken into account. Although industrial attitude toward biorefineries is positive, the efficient production of a portfolio of bio-based products has not yet been implemented. A biorefinery concept for Moerdijk (the Netherlands) was developed, focusing on grass refining, production of pyrolysis oil, biodiesel production, and bio-LNG production. Grass refining is the most experimental technique of all proposed conversion techniques. In terms of development, pyrolysis oil and bio-LNG production are in the demonstration phase. Anaerobic digestion and biodiesel production are proven techniques. It is shown that this concept allows for synergies with regard to the utilization of residue flows from internal processes. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that by integrating different conversion technologies, an economically feasible concept can be developed in which technologies, currently residing in a demonstration phase, can also be brought to the market. (c) 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000342662200015 Publication Date 2013-11-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1932-104x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.694 Times cited 18 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 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. We also would like to express our gratitude toward the organization of the 2nd Iberoamerican Congress on Biorefineries in Jaen (Spain) for giving us the opportunity to present and thereby fine-tune our work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.694; 2014 IF: 4.214
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127541 Serial 6180
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