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Author Alaerts, L.; Van Acker, K.; Rousseau, S.; De Jaeger, S.; Moraga, G.; Dewulf, J.; De Meester, S.; Van Passel, S.; Compernolle, T.; Bachus, K.; Vrancken, K.; Eyckmans, J.
Title Towards a more direct policy feedback in circular economy monitoring via a societal needs perspective Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 149 Issue 149 Pages 363-371
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract (down) The increasing focus on circular economy at the level of governments and policy requires the development of appropriate indicators to effectively monitor the progress towards the circular economy. Currently two very different types of indicator areas are under development: (i) monitoring frameworks based on macro indicators that summarize the progress at (supra)national level, and (ii) micro indicators tailored towards assessing circularity at the level of products. It is not possible to obtain sufficiently direct feedback about the impact of policy interventions by either macro or micro indicators alone. In this paper, a conceptual approach is developed that aims to bridge the gap between the micro and macro level with meso level indicators, and thus ultimately deliver more direct feedback for policymakers, via the insertion of an extra level of meso indicators in between the macro and the micro level. These indicators have been extracted from a dedicated workshop that involved policy, sector and societal stakeholders. The aim of these indicators is to report on progress towards circular economy objectives based on the fulfillment of societal needs. In this way the consumption perspective is given a central position, and the role of circular business models is acknowledged. Following the development of the concept, the next steps towards tailored, flexible and agile monitoring frameworks for circular economy at (supra)national and regional level are outlined. The paper concludes with an illustrative example of the framework applied to the mobility system.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000483414300034 Publication Date 2019-06-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.313 Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes ; The authors are very grateful for financial support received from the Flemish administration via the Steunpunt Circulaire Economie (Policy Research Centre Circular Economy). This publication contains the opinions of the authors, not that of the Flemish administration. The Flemish administration will not carry any liability with respect to the use that can be made of the produced data or conclusions. The authors are also grateful to the numerous stakeholders for extended discussions and comments. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.313
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:162774 Serial 6271
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Author van Winsen, F.; de Mey, Y.; Lauwers, L.; Van Passel, S.; Vancauteren, M.; Wauters, E.
Title Determinants of risk behaviour : effects of perceived risks and risk attitude on farmer's adoption of risk management strategies Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Journal Of Risk Research Abbreviated Journal J Risk Res
Volume 19 Issue 1 Pages 56-78
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sociology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) The importance of risk perception and risk attitude for understanding individual's risk behaviour are independently well described in literature, but rarely combined in an integrated approach. In this study, we propose a model assuming the choice to implement certain risk management strategies to be directly driven by both perceptions of risks and risk attitude. Other determinants influence the intention to apply different risk strategies mainly indirectly, mediated by risk perception and risk attitude. This conceptual model is empirically tested, using structural equation modelling, for understanding the intention of farmers to implement different common risk management strategies at their farms. Data are gathered in a survey completed by 500 farmers from the Flanders region in Belgium, investigating attitudes towards farming, perceived past exposure to risk, socio-demographic characteristics, farm size, perceptions of the major sources of farm business risk, risk attitudes and the intention to apply common risk management strategies. Our major findings are: (i) perception of major farm business risks have no significant impact on the intention of applying any of the risk strategies under study, (ii) risk attitude does have a significant impact. Therefore, rather than objective risk faced and the subjective interpretation thereof, it is the general risk attitude that influence intended risk strategies to be implemented. A distinction can be made between farmers willing to take risk, who are more inclined to apply ex-ante risk management strategies and risk averse farmers who are less inclined to implement ex-ante risk management strategies but rather cope with the consequences and diminish their effects ex-post when risks have occurred.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000365523100004 Publication Date 2014-07-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1366-9877 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.34 Times cited 25 Open Access
Notes ; This work was supported by the agency for Innovation by Science and Technology [grant number 080508]. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.34
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:130188 Serial 6177
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Author 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 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 (down) 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 Fitawok, M.B.; Derudder, B.; Minale, A.S.; Van Passel, S.; Adgo, E.; Nyssen, J.
Title Modeling the Impact of Urbanization on Land-Use Change in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia: An Integrated Cellular Automata–Markov Chain Approach Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Land Abbreviated Journal Land
Volume 9 Issue 4 Pages 115
Keywords A1 Journal Article; analytical hierarchy process; cellular automata; land-use change; Markov chain; urbanization; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract (down) The fast-paced urbanization of recent decades entails that many regions are facing seemingly uncontrolled land-use changes (LUCs) that go hand in hand with a range of environmental and socio-economic challenges. In this paper, we use an integrated cellular automata–Markov chain (CA–MC) model to analyze and predict the urban expansion of and its impact on LUC in the city of Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. To this end, the research marshals high-resolution Landsat images of 1991, 2002, 2011, and 2018. An analytical hierarchy process (AHP) method is then used to identify the biophysical and socioeconomic factors underlying the expansion in the research area. It is shown that, during the period of study, built-up areas are rapidly expanding in the face of an overall decline of the farmland and vegetation cover. Drawing on a model calibration for 2018, the research predicts the possible geographies of LUC in the Bahir Dar area for 2025, 2034, and 2045. It is predicted that the conversions of other land-use types into built-up areas will persist in the southern, southwestern, and northeastern areas of the sprawling city, which can mainly be traced back to the uneven geographies of road accessibility, proximity to the city center, and slope variables. We reflect on how our findings can be used to facilitate sustainable urban development and land-use policies in the Bahir Dar area.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000533901100026 Publication Date 2020-04-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2073-445X ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes The authors would like to thank the VLIR-UOS project for funding this research through Bahir Dar University—Institutional University Cooperation (BDU-IUC) program. Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:169600 Serial 6381
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Author Creemers, S.; Van Passel, S.; Vigani, M.; Vlahos, G.
Title Relationship between farmers' perception of sustainability and future farming strategies : a commodity-level comparison Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication AIMS Agriculture and Food Abbreviated Journal
Volume 4 Issue 3 Pages 613-642
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) The environmental challenges have become increasingly integrated into the European Union's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The Europe 2020 CAP Framework defines new rules for farmers and targets on innovation, resource efficiency, economic viability, and environmental sustainability. Given the continual evolution of the CAP, it is relevant to focus on sustainable agriculture and which indicators can be employed to aid our understanding of the future farming strategies. This study examines the relationship between perceived sustainability and future farming strategies for three different commodities: sugar beet, dairy, and feta cheese. Survey data collected between 2017-2018 from 191 Belgian sugar beet farmers, 524 dairy farmers (from UK, Denmark, France, and Latvia), and 150 Greek sheep and goat farmers producing milk for feta cheese were analysed using multinomial logistic regressions. Our results show that the farmers' attitude towards sustainability affects intentions to implement specific farming strategies. Belgian sugar beet farmers who perceive their supply chain arrangements (SCAs) environmentally sustainable are less likely to reduce the scale of their farms' operations rather than to maintain them. Dairy farmers are more likely to change the existing scale than to maintain scale if they perceive that production choices affect environmental sustainability to a higher extent. Dairy farmers who perceive their SCAs economically sustainable are less likely to abandon farming. Greek sheep and goat farmers who perceive their SCAs economically sustainable are more likely to expand the existing scale. The observed differences at commodity-level show the importance of well targeted policy measures towards more sustainable farming systems in the European Union.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000488251600009 Publication Date 2019-08-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2471-2086 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes ; This research was performed within the frame of the EU's HORIZON 2020 project SUFISA with the grant agreement number 635577. The authors want to thank colleagues from the SUFISA project for stimulating and inspiring discussions on this topic. In particular we would like to thank all the participants of the 2019 SUFISA final conference at the Jagiellonian University of Krakow for fruitful discussions. ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:163832 Serial 6242
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Author Tschulkow, M.; Pizzol, M.; Compernolle, T.; Van den Bosch, S.; Sels, B.; Van Passel, S.
Title The environmental impacts of the lignin-first biorefineries : a consequential life cycle assessment approach Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal
Volume 204 Issue Pages 107466-107469
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) The emerging reductive catalytic fractionation biorefinery which is currently under development aims to convert woody biomass efficiently into high-value products. Despite its potential, the environmental consequences of its implementation are not well known. Therefore, a forward-looking consequential life cycle assessment examines greenhouse gas emissions associated with its products (pulp, phenolic monomers, and oligomers) compared to alternative market options. Findings indicate that current greenhouse gas emissions exceed those of the existing alternatives, with by-products and the gaseous waste stream as major contributors. Process adaption to (i) produce higher-valued products (bleached pulps, phenols, and propylene) and (ii) incinerate gaseous waste stream for energy are proposed, potentially reducing emissions by up to 50 %, outperforming alternative options. Compared to land-based transportation, waterways can increase feedstock availability by up to 1000 km without an increase in emissions. In conclusion, the consequential approach provides valuable insights for enhancing and optimizing the environmental performance of the process.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001186282000001 Publication Date 2024-02-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2; 2024 IF: 3.313
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205493 Serial 9234
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Author Milis, K.; Peremans, H.; Van Passel, S.
Title Steering the adoption of battery storage through electricity tariff design Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 98 Issue 98 Pages 125-139
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) The economic viability of electricity storage using batteries, under different tariff structures and system configurations, is investigated. The economic outcomes of the different combinations of tariff design and system configuration are evaluated. Based on a discussion of the relevant literature, the following tariff designs are used in the study: (i) fixed energy prices, (ii) real-time energy pricing, (iii) fixed rate capacity tariffs, and (iv) capacity dependent capacity tariffs. Next, the different simulated system configurations are outlined: (i) no battery storage, (ii) battery storage only, and (iii) battery storage and decentralized renewable energy production with PV. Our study provides insights for policy makers, showing that capacity block pricing only incentivises storage as part of an (existing) PV installation, while the combination of real time energy pricing and capacity block pricing promotes a wider adoption of battery storage.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000450559100010 Publication Date 2018-09-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited 7 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153327 Serial 6252
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Author Shahraki, M.R.; Abedi-Sarvestani, A.; Seyedi, M.S.; Rafiaani Khachak, P.; Nieto-Garibay, A.; Van Passel, S.; Azadi, A.
Title The perception by pastoralists of the factors influencing the appropriate distribution of livestock in the rangelands of north-east Iran Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication The Rangeland Journal Abbreviated Journal
Volume 37 Issue 2 Pages 191-197
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) The distribution of livestock grazing is a key principle of range management. This study examines pastoralists perceptions of the factors that affect the distribution of livestock in the rangelands of the Neqab region of the Kashmar County in north-east Iran. Data were collected from the pastoralists on their perceptions of the managerial, biological and physical factors that influences the distribution of livestock, using both qualitative and quantitative assessments. Results showed that, the perception of the majority of pastoralists was that the distribution of livestock was average or good in the study area. It was perceived that the experience of herders and the size of the rangeland were the main factors influencing the distribution of livestock. Regression analyses showed that it was perceived that managerial factors had a more important role than biological and physical factors in the distribution of livestock and the proper use of the rangelands in north-east Iran.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000351863200007 Publication Date 2015-02-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129879 Serial 6234
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Author Jafari, A.; Kaji, H.S.; Azadi, H.; Gebrehiwot, K.; Aghamir, F.; Van Passel, S.
Title Assessing the sustainability of community forest management : a case study from Iran Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Forest Policy And Economics Abbreviated Journal Forest Policy Econ
Volume 96 Issue 96 Pages 1-8
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) 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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000445985000001 Publication Date 2018-08-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1389-9341 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.982 Times cited 4 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.982
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:154138 Serial 6155
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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 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 (down) 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 Peeters, M.; Compernolle, T.; Van Passel, S.
Title Influence of information provided at the moment of a fire alarm on the choice of exit Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Fire Safety Journal Abbreviated Journal Fire Safety J
Volume 117 Issue Pages 103221-103228
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Center for Oncological Research (CORE)
Abstract (down) The data generated in buildings are used for all types of purposes. The quality of information used in assisting people to escape an emergency situation is of importance. In practice today, none of the data-generating systems that aid in the escape from emergency situations is validated on a regular basis. This study is based on the smart building concept. The rationale behind this concept is to provide information about a building and the usage of that building at each moment in time. An experiment was conducted to measure the impact of different types of information on participants' choice of exit, exit time and distance travelled. Seven identical floors of one building were used with different setups to see if the choice of exit is influenced by the type of information provided at the moment of an alarm. It was found that the information does have a significant impact on the choice of exit, escape speed and distance travelled. Furthermore, it was shown that false information can increase the time it takes to leave the building and the distance travelled, impacting the survival rate. The more imperative information is visualised, the stronger its influence is on the choices made.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000579650800011 Publication Date 2020-09-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0379-7112 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.1; 2020 IF: 1.165
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:175125 Serial 6929
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Author Gezahegn, T.W.; Van Passel, S.; Berhanu, T.; D'haese, M.; Maertens, M.
Title Do bottom-up and independent agricultural cooperatives really perform better? Insights from a technical efficiency analysis in Ethiopia Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Agrekon Abbreviated Journal Agrekon
Volume Issue Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) The cooperative landscape in Ethiopia is very heterogeneous with a mixture of remains of the pre-1991 government-controlled system and new post-1991 bottom-up collective action initiatives. This heterogeneity, coupled with a large growth in the number of cooperatives in the country, offers an interesting perspective to study the determinants of the (in)efficiency of cooperatives. In this paper, we analyse the performance of Ethiopian agricultural cooperatives, focusing on the degree of technical (in)efficiency and its determinants. We use the stochastic frontier approach in which we account for heteroskedasticity and the monotonicity of production functions, presenting a methodological improvement with respect to previous technical efficiency studies. The results show that NGO- and government-initiated cooperatives are less efficient than community-initiated ones, implying that governments and NGOs should not interfere too strongly in cooperative formation. Cooperatives with a high degree of heterogeneity in members' participation are found to be about 98% less efficient, while cooperatives that have paid employees are 33% more efficient. Besides, results show that cooperatives in Ethiopia function more efficiently if they incentivize committee members through monetary compensation.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000487651200001 Publication Date 2019-09-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0303-1853 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.3 Times cited Open Access
Notes ; The authors acknowledge funding from the VLIR-UOS TEAM Program (VLIR-UOS-ZEIN2015PR406 (13V95615T), Belgium. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.3; 2020 IF: 0.224
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:163772 Serial 6184
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Author De Schepper, E.; Van Passel, S.; Lizin, S.
Title Economic benefits of combining clean energy technologies : the case of solar photovoltaics and battery electric vehicles Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication International Journal Of Energy Research Abbreviated Journal Int J Energ Res
Volume 39 Issue 8 Pages 1109-1119
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) The combined use of clean technologies can lead amongst other benefits to reduced environmental impacts, improved system efficiencies, better management of land scarcity, and diminishment of the effect of power variability of intermittent clean energy sources. Nonetheless, private investors facing budgetary constraints will only opt to invest in the combination of technologies if the latter is more profitable than the investment in a single technology. The aim of the paper is to provide a systematic model for decision makers that allows them to evaluate the profitability of any random combination of technologies under budgetary constraints, and to compare this profitability with that of the individual projects in isolation. This research goes beyond the state of art in the field of financial management and more specifically in the field of the rationing of capital amongst interdependent projects, by developing a method to calculate the payoff of interdependent projects undertaken together. Moreover, this paper develops a computational model from the investor's point of view, of which the purpose is threefold: First, the model allows to directly compare the economic payoff of individual complementary technologies with the economic payoff of their integrated combination, under budgetary constraints. Second, the model calculates economic synergies labeled benefits of combined technologies' (BOCT) when combining complementary technologies. Third, the model explains the rationalization behind the presence of BOCT. The model exemplifies an ex ante cost benefit analysis developed for business and non-governmental use. A four step methodology is proposed and illustrated by means of a case study of PV solar power and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) for a small Belgian enterprise. Results show that at low electricity prices (<Euro0.112/kWh) it is most profitable to invest in BEVs. When the price of electricity rises (>Euro0.134/kWh), investment in exclusively PV becomes most attractive. In all other cases, it is more profitable to invest in the combination of both technologies. Copyright (c) 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000355732200006 Publication Date 2015-03-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0363-907x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.598 Times cited 14 Open Access
Notes ; Sebastien Lizin would like to thank the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO), grant number 12G5415N, for their funding without which it would have been impossible to review this work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.598; 2015 IF: 2.418
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127535 Serial 6188
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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 Biomass Bioenerg
Volume 120 Issue 120 Pages 91-106
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) 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 Thomassen, G.; Dewulf, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Prospective material and substance flow analysis of the end-of-life phase of crystalline silicon-based PV modules Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 176 Issue Pages 105917
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) The approaching end-of life phase of early installed PV modules gave rise to a variety of potential end-of-life strategies, ranging from basic generic waste management strategies to advanced case-specific recycling options. However, no comprehensive assessment on the full range of technological possibilities is available and only limited attention was given to the material recovery rates of these different technologies in light of circular economy. In addition, current material recovery rates are indifferent towards the material value and the value of their secondary applications. Based on an extensive literature review, ten end-of-life scenarios with potential learning effects are identified and their material flows are quantified using a combined material and substance flow analysis. Subsequently, material recovery rates from a mass, economic value and embodied energy perspective are calculated, incorporating the differences in secondary applications. The differences in the mass-based recovery rates of the seven end-of-life scenarios that did not have landfill or municipal waste incineration as the main destination were minimal, as 73-79% of the mass was recovered for the best-case learning scenario. For the economic value recovery rate (9-66%) and the embodied energy recovery rate (18-45%), more profound differences were found. The collection rate was identified as most crucial parameter for all end-of-life scenarios, learning scenarios and recycling indicators. The mass-based recovery rate might favor end-of-life scenarios that lead to dissipation of valuable materials in non-functional secondary applications. Additional targets are required to avoid cascading of valuable materials and to avoid the economic cost and environmental burden of virgin materials.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000708339400003 Publication Date 2021-10-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:182462 Serial 6939
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Author Saviuc, I.; Van Passel, S.; Peremans, H.
Title Integrating PV+battery residential microgrids in distribution networks : how is the point of common coupling agreed upon? Type H1 Book chapter
Year 2020 Publication Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 150-164
Keywords H1 Book chapter; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) The anticipated development of decentralized electricity generation is expected to strengthen the opportunities of prosumers in the residential areas of cities, in line with the predicted establishment of renewable energy generation and storage. Based on academic research and on successful case studies, the opportunity for residential prosumers to organize in microgrids emerges as a viable and promising solution. This paper focuses on microgrids that are planned to generate electricity with a PV unit and use a shared storage system, and that opt to have a connection with the main grid. However, the point of common coupling needs to be agreed first between the microgrid operator and the network operator, and this agreement is determined by several factors and conditions beyond the basic technical and regulatory requirements. A survey of academic literature on the determinant factors for such an agreement exposes the fact that current research either focuses on the integration of individual prosumers in the main grid, or regards the point of common coupling as a given component of microgrids. We argue that neither of the two approaches is helpful in the case of microgrids vs. main grid, seeing as the agreement is not self-evident under just any circumstances, nor can the microgrid be equated to a single, large prosumer. Therefore this short paper compiles a set of determinant factors for the microgrid integration, as they emerge from academic literature, with the aim to document further research needs and support the discussion on microgrid integration.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2020-04-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title Sustainable Energy for Smart Cities : First EAI International Conference, SESC 2019, Braga, Portugal, December 4–6, 2019: proceedings
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN 978-3-030-45693-1 Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:168515 Serial 6932
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Author Kuppens, T.; Van Dael, M.; Maggen, J.; Vanreppelen, K.; Yperman, J.; Carleer, R.; Elen, H.; Van Passel, S.
Title Techno-economic assessment of different conversion pathways for pyrolysis char from pig manure Type P1 Proceeding
Year 2014 Publication Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 901-911
Keywords P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology
Abstract (down) The amount of animal manure that can be brought back to agricultural land is limited by legislation. Because pig manure is available in too large quantities in some areas, we investigate the techno-economic feasibility of converting it into valuable products. First, slurry is separated in water, a thick fraction and a fertilizer concentrate poor in phosphate. Then, the thick fraction is dried and pyrolyzed. Our goal is to identify the optimal pyrolysis and activation conditions for the production of biochar or activated carbon. The latter has interesting adsorption characteristics due to the presence of nitrogen. It can also be used as a soil amendment as it improves biomass quantity and quality. On top, it immobilizes toxic elements and stores carbon in the soil. Char thus has many interesting characteristics and can be valued in different ways. The economic feasibility has been explored by a first techno-economic modelling iteration. The critical factors influencing the feasibility are identified by Monte Carlo simulations for further improvement of the process design.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title 22nd European Biomass Conference and Exhibition : Setting the Course for a Biobased Economy, 23-26 June 2014, Hamburg, Germany : conference proceedings
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127546 Serial 6263
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Author Nabavi-Pelesaraei, A.; Azadi, H.; Van Passel, S.; Saber, Z.; Hosseini-Fashami, F.; Mostashari-Rad, F.; Ghasemi-Mobtaker, H.
Title Prospects of solar systems in production chain of sunflower oil using cold press method with concentrating energy and life cycle assessment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Energy Abbreviated Journal Energy
Volume 223 Issue Pages 120117
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) The aim of this study is determination of exergoenvironmental efficiency for using solar technologies in sunflower oil production in Iran. Accordingly, the applications of photovoltaic and photovoltaic/thermal systems were evaluated for both agricultural and industrial phases of sunflower oil production. Energy results reveal that 1 ton of sunflower oil consumes and produces about 180,354 and 39,400 MJ energy, respectively. About 86% of total energy consumption belongs to agricultural phase and electricity with 32%, has the highest share of total energy consumption. IMPACT 2002+ method and cumulative energy demand of life cycle assessment are applied to 3 defined scenarios including Present, photovoltaic and photovoltaic/thermal. Results indicate that total amounts of climate change in Present scenarios is 24537.53 kg CO2 eq.. The highest share of human health (90%), ecosystem quality (90%) and climate change (50%) in all scenarios belongs to direct emissions. Results also illustrates that total cumulative energy demand of Present, photovoltaic and photovoltaic/thermal scenarios are about 177,538, 99,054 and 132,158 MJ 1TSO(-1), respectively. Furthermore, the most contribution of non-renewable resources and fossil fuels belongs to electricity (37%), nitrogen (52%) and photovoltaic/thermal panels (39%) in Present, photovoltaic and photovoltaic/thermal scenarios, respectively. Finally the photovoltaic scenario is the best environmental-friendly scenario. (c) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000637964000003 Publication Date 2021-02-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0360-5442 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.52 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.52
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178193 Serial 6940
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Author Annys, S.; Van Passel, S.; Dessein, J.; Adgo, E.; Nyssen, J.
Title From fast-track implementation to livelihood deterioration: The dam-based Ribb Irrigation and Drainage Project in Northwest Ethiopia Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Agricultural Systems Abbreviated Journal Agr Syst
Volume 184 Issue Pages 102909-102913
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) The 21st century revival of large-scale water resources development projects makes it important to keep assessing their impacts – preferably from an interdisciplinary perspective – in order to not repeat past mistakes and explore whether they could improve livelihood conditions for rural communities. In this study, costs and benefits of the World Bank-funded Ribb Irrigation and Drainage Project (RIDP) were investigated using a unique systems approach. The impact for farmers with different initial farming systems (rainfed – residual moisture – irrigated) was studied using field observations, document analyses, remote sensing, agronomic data and semi-structured interviews (n = 165). Data on project-induced changes to land and water availability, cropping patterns, farming systems and farm-level economics were collected. The results show that dam and dyke construction has reduced flooding, which has resulted in declining rice productivity ( – 42%) and concomitant shifts to lower value cropping systems. Results also reveal that the land redistribution has caused widespread livelihood deterioration as households had to give up 25% of their farmland and the communal grazing land was fully converted into farmland. Due to top-down implementation, nontransparent communication, delayed construction and lagging financial compensation, social resistance has appeared in the command area, impeding the construction works. In addition to these problems, if no rapid change to higher value crops can be realized, 20.5% of the farmers (those who already irrigate) will experience a loss of livelihood, 64.1% of the farmers (those with rainfed and residual moisture cultivation) will be on the verge of livelihood deterioration and only 13.5% of the farmers (those with solely rainfed cultivation) will enjoy RIDP-induced improved livelihoods. The fate of this project stresses the importance of investigating initial farming systems, exploring worthy project alternatives, improving participation, communication and benefit-sharing and strengthening the institutional capacity of implementing authorities.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000564756600013 Publication Date 2020-08-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0308-521x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.6 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.6; 2020 IF: 2.571
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:172030 Serial 6927
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Author De Weerdt, L.; De Jaeger, S.; Compernolle, T.; Van Passel, S.
Title How an incineration tax changes waste management practices among firms Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2022 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 180 Issue Pages 106172
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract (down) Sustainable management of industrial plastic waste is crucial in the transition to a circular economy. Today, most industrial plastic waste is incinerated, whereas it could be recycled. As a consequence, governments increasingly make use of incineration taxes to improve current waste management practices. This paper presents an econometric panel analysis that studies the effects of an incineration tax on industrial plastic waste in Flanders (Belgium). Not only is this study the first econometric analysis on industrial plastic waste management in which firm heterogeneity is explicitly taken into account by including firm-specific characteristics, but this study also provides policymakers with insights into the effectiveness of an incineration tax to change current waste management practices. Empirical estimates imply that heterogeneous firms generate industrial plastic waste in different ways and that heterogeneous firms reduce their waste generation in different ways after the incineration tax rate increases. The estimates also show that the unique decrease of the incineration tax in 2007, did not change waste management practices. These estimates show that firms do not disinvest or indicate that loss aversion theory, i.e. a preference for avoiding losses over acquiring equivalent gains, might apply to firms that are faced with environmental taxation in a waste management context.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2022-01-19
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2
Call Number ENM @ enm @ Serial 7256
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Author Maes, D.; Van Dael, M.; Vanheusden, B.; Goovaerts, L.; Reumerman, P.; Luzardo, N.M.; Van Passel, S.
Title Assessment of the sustainability guidelines of EU Renewable Energy Directive : the case of biorefineries Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Journal Of Cleaner Production Abbreviated Journal J Clean Prod
Volume 88 Issue Pages 61-70
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) Sustainability guidelines can help to safeguard the sustainable use of biological materials. When these guidelines are legally prescribed, their influence on the economic viability of bioenergy, biofuel and bioliquid projects is increased substantially, through their impact on national subsidy regimes and international trade. One of the key examples is the European directive 2009/28/EC, or the Renewable Energy Directive (RED), and the related COM/2010/11 that integrate guidelines for calculating greenhouse gas impact for various bioenergy pathways. This paper looks further into the sustainability results when influenced by principal decisions that are legally open for debate. Therefore, a concise review is conducted of the legal state-of-the-art on whether a product is waste or not. The review pinpoints uncertainty, leading to four potential legal scenarios. The sustainability of a complex biorefinery is analysed for each scenario. The results show (i) a high sensitivity to the principal decisions on the nature of waste materials in the scenarios, and (ii) to the definition of boundaries between the processes. More detailed rules for the application of the RED guidelines are needed, and should be complemented with methods specifically targeting all relevant sustainability aspects, thereby enhancing the overall understanding of the sustainability of the process. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000347771100007 Publication Date 2014-04-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0959-6526 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.715 Times cited 25 Open Access
Notes ; We would like to thank the editor and the anonymous referees for their helpful suggestions and insightful comments that have significantly improved the paper. The 'Energy Conversion Parks' (ECP) project is funded as Project nr IVA-VLANED-2.39 by the Interreg IVa-Flanders-Netherlands program from the European Fund for Regional Development that stimulates cross border projects. Also the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Flemish Government, the Provinces of Noord-Brabant (NL), Zeeland (NL), Limburg (BE) and the partners (VITO, Avans University of Applied Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Hasselt University, and Zeeland University of Applied Sciences) themselves are co-financing the project. Finally, we would like to express our gratitude towards the organization of the eighth Conference on Sustainable Development of Energy, Water and Environment systems in Dubrovnik (Croatia) for giving us the opportunity to present and thereby fine-tune our work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.715; 2015 IF: 3.844
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127538 Serial 6157
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Author Van Passel, S.; Meul, M.
Title Multilevel and multi-user sustainability assessment of farming systems Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Environmental Impact Assessment Review Abbreviated Journal Environ Impact Asses
Volume 32 Issue 1 Pages 170-180
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology
Abstract (down) Sustainability assessment is needed to build sustainable farming systems. A broad range of sustainability concepts, methodologies and applications already exists. They differ in level, focus, orientation, measurement, scale, presentation and intended end-users. In this paper we illustrate that a smart combination of existing methods with different levels of application can make sustainability assessment more profound, and that it can broaden the insights of different end-user groups. An overview of sustainability assessment tools on different levels and for different end-users shows the complementarities and the opportunities of using different methods. In a case-study, a combination of the sustainable value approach (SVA) and MOTIFS is used to perform a sustainability evaluation of farming systems in Flanders. SVA is used to evaluate sustainability at sector level, and is especially useful to support policy makers, while MOTIFS is used to support and guide farmers towards sustainability at farm level. The combined use of the two methods with complementary goals can widen the insights of both farmers and policy makers, without losing the particularities of the different approaches. To stimulate and support further research and applications, we propose guidelines for multilevel and multi-user sustainability assessments.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000297874000020 Publication Date 2011-09-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0195-9255 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.094 Times cited 49 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.094; 2012 IF: 1.851
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:94186 Serial 6231
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Author Van Passel, S.
Title Food miles to assess sustainability : a revision Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Sustainable Development Abbreviated Journal Sustain Dev
Volume 21 Issue 1 Pages 1-17
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) Sustainability assessment is an essential process in our aim to reach a more sustainable production and consumption pattern. This research revises the food miles concept as a guiding tool to assess sustainability. Food miles measure the distance that food travels from where it is grown or raised to where it is consumed. Three different concepts to assess sustainability are described: (i) food miles, (ii) enhanced food miles, (iii) food chain sustainability. An illustrative case study shows that there is a strong danger of oversimplification when using food miles as an assessment tool. Second, the food miles concept can be enhanced with all relevant transport externalities taking into account different transport modes and transport (in)efficiency. Third, all relevant economic, social, and ecological aspects should be taken into account. Besides transport externalities, also externalities caused by food production, food packaging, food marketing, and food consumption should be incorporated. Moreover, the trade-off with development goals cannot be neglected. As a consequence, there is a strong danger of incommensurability as the result of different sustainability model assumptions and unclear system boundaries. Nevertheless, sustainability assessment can enrich policy making and support tailored policy measures to improve food chain sustainability. Copyright (c) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000314187900001 Publication Date 2010-07-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0968-0802 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.167 Times cited 17 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.167; 2013 IF: 1.692
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127553 Serial 6204
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Author Lizin, S.; Van Passel, S.; Vranken, L.
Title Heterogeneity in the solar-powered consumer electronics market : a discrete choice experiments study Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Solar Energy Materials And Solar Cells Abbreviated Journal Sol Energ Mat Sol C
Volume 156 Issue Pages 140-146
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) Solar-powered consumer electronics are a likely starting point for organic photovoltaic (OPV) market development. Therefore, a generic discrete choice experiments study can determine how Flemish consumers value solar-cell characteristics for solar-poweied consumer electronics. Such characteristics include efficiency, lifetime, aesthetics, integratability, and price. We contribute to the literature by investigating preference heterogeneity in a solar-power niche market with an experimental design with a fixed reference alternative. The error components random parameter logit (ECRPL) with interactions provides a better fit than the latent class (LC) model for our choice data. The main effects had the expected signs. Consequently, aesthetics and integratability are OPV's assets. Nevertheless, heterogeneity puts the results that are valid for the average consumer into perspective. Based on our findings, OPV commercialization efforts should target the experienced, impatient user who highly values design and functionality. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000383304100015 Publication Date 2016-06-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0927-0248 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.784 Times cited 2 Open Access
Notes ; Sebastien Lizin thanks the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for funding his postdoctoral mandate with Grant number 12G5415N, without which it would have been impossible to revise this work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.784
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:137107 Serial 6207
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Author Bjørnåvold, A.; Lizin, S.; Van Dael, M.; Arnold, F.; Van Passel, S.
Title Eliciting policymakers’ preferences for technologies to decarbonise transport: A discrete choice experiment Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions Abbreviated Journal Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions
Volume 35 Issue Pages 21-34
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract (down) Socio-technical transitions are often hindered by the resilience of existing infrastructures, as policymakers are reluctant to invest in novel products or services. Using the example of carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) based fuels, we set up a discrete choice experiment to assess whether European policymakers have a tendency to avoid investing in novel, and more disruptive technologies, and rather prefer to invest in technologies that resemble the incumbent. Results indicate that policymakers prefer to allocate funding to dominant technologies. The results also revealed an overall positive perception of CCU technologies among policymakers. As the commercialisation of such products and processes continues, acceptance among this group of stakeholders is key.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000540750600002 Publication Date 2020-02-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2210-4224 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 7.2 Times cited Open Access
Notes The authors would like to express their thanks to the participants that took part in this study. Financial support from the Flemish University Research Fund (BOF) (for Amalie Bjørnåvold) and the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) Postdoctoral Grant 12G5418N (for Sebastien Lizin) is gratefully acknowledged. The authors have no competing interests to declare. Approved Most recent IF: 7.2; 2020 IF: NA
Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:167254 Serial 6351
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Author Moretti, M.; Njakou Djomo, S.; Azadi, H.; May, K.; De Vos, K.; Van Passel, S.; Witters, N.
Title A systematic review of environmental and economic impacts of smart grids Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 68 Issue 2 Pages 888-898
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) Smart grids (SGs) have a central role in the development of the global power sector. Cost-benefit analyses and environmental impact assessments are used to support policy on the deployment of SG systems and technologies. However, the conflicting and widely varying estimates of costs, benefits, greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction, and energy savings in literature leave policy makers struggling with how to advise regarding SG deployment. Identifying the causes for the wide variation of individual estimates in the literature is crucial if evaluations are to be used in decision-making. This paper (i) summarizes and compares the methodologies used for economic and environmental evaluation of SGs (ii) identifies the sources of variation in estimates across studies, and (iii) point to gap in research on economic and environmental analyses of SG systems. Seventeen studies (nine articles and eight reports published between 2000 and 2015) addressing the economic costs versus benefits, energy efficiency, and GHG emissions of SGs were systematically searched, located, selected, and reviewed. Their methods and data were subsequently extracted and analysed. The results show that no standardized method currently exists for assessing the economic and environmental impacts of SG systems. The costs varied between 0.03 and 1143 M/yr, while the benefits ranged from 0.04 to 804 M/yr, suggesting that SG systems do not result in cost savings The primary energy savings ranged from 0.03 to 0.95 MJ/kWh, whereas the GHG emission reduction ranged from 10 to 180 gCO2/kWh, depending on the country grid mix and the system boundary of the SG system considered. The findings demonstrate that although SG systems are energy efficient and reduce GHG emissions, investments in SG systems may not yield any benefits. Standardizing some methodologies and assumptions such as discount rates, time horizon and scrutinizing some key input data will result in more consistent estimates of costs and benefits, GHG emission reduction, and energy savings.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000391899400006 Publication Date 2016-03-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited 27 Open Access
Notes ; We would like to thank the editor and the anonymous referees for their helpful suggestions and insightful comments that have significantly improved the paper. This research paper has been implemented within the GREAT (Growing Renewable Energy Applications and Technologies) project funded by the European INTERREG IVB North-Western Europe Programme. Nele Witters was financed by FWO (Research Foundation Flanders). ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139036 Serial 6260
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Author Biely, K.; Maes, D.; Van Passel, S.
Title The idea of weak sustainability is illegitimate Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal
Volume 20 Issue 1 Pages 223-232
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) Since the introduction of the sustainability challenge, scientists disagree over the interpretation of the term sustainability. Weak and strong sustainability are the two main interpretations of sustainability, which are opposing each other. Some researchers stated that the interpretation of the term depends on the context; others disagree pointing out that it always implies the meaning of continuation. The term sustainability can be used as attribute, which adds a certain characteristic to the noun. If something can be attributed as being sustainable, it can also be unsustainable. The sustainability challenge consists of shifting from the current unsustainable towards a sustainable system. This paper outlines that the weak sustainability term is illegitimate, as it leads to a contradiction with the acknowledged assumption that the current state is unsustainable. This contradiction is revealed through an analysis of the occurrence of decoupling in agriculture: Agricultural land use could be decoupled from agricultural production, but only with the trade-off of massive increases in fertilizer, pesticide, energy and water usage. This paper outlines an inherent inconsistency within the ongoing discussion about the interpretation of sustainability. Through identifying the invalidity of the weak sustainability interpretation the focus can be shifted form the discourse to the sustainability challenge itself.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000423142700011 Publication Date 2016-10-31
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1387-585x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to thank the reviewers for their time and their comments on the draft version. This paper was supported by the Horizon 2020 project SUFISA (Grant Agreement No. 635577). ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:149043 Serial 6212
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Author Moretti, M.; De Boni, A.; Roma, R.; Fracchiolla, M.; Van Passel, S.
Title Integrated assessment of agro-ecological systems : the case study of the “Alta Murgia” National park in Italy Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Agricultural Systems Abbreviated Journal Agr Syst
Volume 144 Issue Pages 144-155
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) Several indicators and methods are already applied for sustainability assessment in agriculture. The links between sustainability indicators, agricultural management and policies are not well explained. The aim of this study is to combine biophysical and monetary sustainability assessment tools to support agriculture policy decision-making. Three methodological steps are considered: i) the environmental impacts of farms are assessed using terrestrial acidification, freshwater eutrophication, soil and freshwater ecotoxicity as well as natural land transformation; ii) the most relevant indicators of agriculture damages on ecosystems quality are aggregated into an index; iii) the farms' index scores are integrated with farm assets, land and labor, into the Sustainable Value approach (SVA), as indicator of natural resources used by farms. As a case study, the methodology was applied to arable farms with and without animal husbandry of the “Alta Murgia” National Park. The crop farms, in our sample, have a higher sustainable value using their economic and environmental resources. Mixed farms need to improve their resources use efficiency. Although crop farms have lower land-use efficiency compared to mixed farms, our results suggest supporting, by means of policy options, the specialized crop farms that, on average, perform better in terms of ecosystems quality preservation. Finally, we find that Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to soundly measure the environmental impacts clearly enriches the SVA. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000373553100014 Publication Date 2016-02-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0308-521x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.571 Times cited 6 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 authors want to thank the “Alta Murgia” Park Authority for the support in this study and all farmers that collaborated with the authors providing data. Moreover, the authors want to thank Dr. Sylvestre Njakou Djomo for the useful discussion and suggestion to build the LCA model. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.571
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:133254 Serial 6218
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Author Vasilakou, K.; Nimmegeers, P.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.
Title Geospatial environmental techno-economic assessment of pretreatment technologies for bioethanol production Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Renewable and sustainable energy reviews Abbreviated Journal
Volume 187 Issue Pages 113743-16
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract (down) Second-generation biofuels, starting from lignocellulosic biomass, are considered as a renewable alternative for fossil fuels with lower environmental impact and potentially higher supply and energy security. The economic and environmental performance of second-generation bioethanol production from corn stover in the European Union (EU) is studied, starting in Belgium as base case. A comparative environmental techno-economic assessment has been conducted, with process simulations in Aspen Plus and corn stover availability data in thirteen EU countries to calculate minimum ethanol selling prices (MESP) and Greenhouse gas emissions (GHGe). In this analysis, the emphasis is on the comparison of different pretreatment technologies, namely (i) dilute acid, (ii) alkaline, (iii) steam explosion and (iv) liquid hot water. Dilute acid showed the best economic and environmental performance for the base case scenario. Within the EU, Hungary and Romania presented the lowest MESP for the steam explosion model at 0.39 and 0.43 EUR/L respectively. Poland showed the lowest GHGe, at 0.46 kg CO2eq/L for the alkaline model, mainly due to the avoided product allocation on electricity and its high carbon intensity in the electricity generation sector. The second lowest GHGe were obtained in France for the dilute acid model and are attributed to its low agricultural emissions intensity. This study identifies a location-dependence of the economic and environmental performance of pretreatment technologies, which can be extrapolated from the EU to other large regions around the world and should be taken into consideration by decision-makers.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001082526000001 Publication Date 2023-09-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 15.9 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 15.9; 2023 IF: 8.05
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198804 Serial 9205
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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 Climatic Change
Volume 147 Issue 1-2 Pages 225-234
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract (down) 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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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000425959700017 Publication Date 2018-01-16
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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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