“Rapid economic valuation of ecosystem services in man and biosphere reserves in Africa : a review”. Azadi H, Van Passel S, Cools J, Global Ecology and Conservation 28, e01697 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.GECCO.2021.E01697
Abstract: Y Ecosystem services (ESs) include the benefits people receive from ecosystems that support the socio-economic requirements and human well-being. The Man and Biosphere (MAB) programs are a scientific plan in the African context that is linked to governments and attempts to create a systematic ground to enhance the relationship between individuals and their environments. Using economic valuation methods, the main objective of this study was to perform a systematic review on studies undertaken in African countries in order to expose the role of MAB programs in conserving ESs in these countries. Based on the results, MAB programs offer both the protection of cultural ecosystem services and the improvement of livelihoods. Moreover, the MAB programs enable biosphere reserves to help national governments find solutions to the pressing challenges in Africa. In conclusion, policymakers should be aware of the main goal of ESs valuation approaches. In other words, the main goal should focus on the creation of prevention rather than rehabilitation activities in order to avoid the loss of ecosystem services mainly at the cost of users. Overall, the findings of this study underlined that economic valuation methods should provide evidence to underpin the development of policy instruments for the conservation of ESs in African countries. More importantly, ESs conservation strategies should consider various measures to reduce human impacts while also considering their well-being. In this context, the study's main implication is that human well-being is determined not only by the quantity but also by the quality of ESs.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1016/J.GECCO.2021.E01697
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“How participation in vegetables market affects livelihoods : empirical evidence from Northern Ethiopia”. Gebrehiwot NT, Azadi H, Taheri F, Van Passel S, Journal of international food and agribusiness marketing 30, 107 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1080/08974438.2017.1402725
Abstract: Vegetable farmers face a number of challenges in marketing. Having first-hand information about vegetable marketing is essential to devise appropriate strategies aimed at enhancing the value of the vegetable chain. It was in line with this view that the study was conducted to characterize vegetable markets in Northern Ethiopia. In an effort to identify the factors influencing vegetable marketing among farmers, data were collected from 283 farm households who were selected using stratified random sampling. Furthermore, the data were triangulated through focus group discussion (FGD) and key informant interviews. Descriptive statistics and the binary logistic regression model were used to identify the variables and test the probability of their influence in regard to farmers decisions in vegetable marketing. From the 13 explanatory variables included in the binary logistic regression model, six predictors were found to be statistically significant in determining the effects of participation decision on vegetable market. These variables are as follows: household family size, total land holding of the household, amount of vegetable produced and marketed, use of irrigation technologies, contact with extension agents, and access to market information. Relying on a survey result and observations, the findings of the study indicated that vegetable marketing is significantly improving the livelihood of smallholder producers.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1080/08974438.2017.1402725
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“Understanding communicational behavior among rangelands' stakeholders : application of social network analysis”. Hosseininia G, Rafiaani Khachak P, Nooripoor M, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Journal Of Environmental Planning And Management 59, 320 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1080/09640568.2015.1009975
Abstract: Understanding communicational behavior of rangelands stakeholders is fundamental for effective development of rangeland management plans. This study aimed to understand differences between stakeholders relations among various actors involved in rangeland management using social network analysis (SNA). A survey was conducted on 334 stakeholders (89 extension agents, 110 researchers and 135 executive agents) in the Tehran province, Iran. Results showed that all the three groups of stakeholders are interested in making contact mainly within their own group. Furthermore, while the executive agents have shared the strongest technical and friendship relations with the two other groups, the extension agents established the strongest administrative interactions. The researchers, however, made a poor link especially with the extension agents. The study concluded that SNA could be an efficient tool to assess communicational behavior in rangeland management.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.56
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1080/09640568.2015.1009975
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“Economic sustainability assessment in semi-steppe rangelands”. Chelan MM, Alijanpour A, Barani H, Motamedi J, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Science Of The Total Environment 637-638, 112 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2018.04.428
Abstract: This study was conducted to determine indices and components of economic sustainability assessment in the pastoral units of Sahand summer rangelands. The method was based on descriptive-analytical survey (experts and researchers) with questionnaires. Analysis of variance showed that the mean values of economic components are significantly different from each other and the efficiency component has the highest mean value (0.57). The analysis of rangeland pastoral unitswith the technique for order-preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) indicated that from an economic sustainability standpoint, Garehgol (Ci = 0.519) and Badir Khan (Ci = 0.129), pastoral units ranked first and last, respectively. This study provides a clear understanding of existing resources and opportunities for policy makers that is crucial to approach economic sustainable development. Accordingly, this study can help better define sustainable development goals and monitor the progress of achieving them. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.9
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2018.04.428
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“An attempt to develop ecotourism in an unknown area : the case of Nehbandan County, South Khorasan Province, Iran”. Ghorbani A, Mousazadeh H, Taheri F, Ehteshammajd S, Azadi H, Yazdanpanah M, Khajehshahkohi A, Tanaskovik V, Van Passel S, Environment, development and sustainability 23, 11792 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10668-020-01142-W
Abstract: This study is an attempt to develop ecotourism in Nehbandan County, in the South Khorasan Province, Iran, by representing unknown areas that have tourism potential. The most important obstacle in the development of tourism industry is the lack of strong marketing plans, tourism management, accommodations for overnight and long stays, and medical and health clinic in the desert. This is a qualitative, exploratory case study investigating the status of environmental, sociocultural, and economic impacts of ecotourism development on the native people's livelihood in Nehbandan County in Iran. The methodology is based on field observations, secondary data sources, and field survey. It is an interpretive approach that avoids numbers but focuses on issues linked to culture and nature. In the present study, the grounded theory was used to perform data analysis. Based on the findings, ecotourism has undoubtedly proven to be an effective environmental conservation tool in the study site and enables local people to increase their livelihood security through employment in activities relating to ecotourism and the development of rural livelihood.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1007/S10668-020-01142-W
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“Environmental and health impacts of effluents from textile industries in Ethiopia : the case of Gelan and Dukem, Oromia Regional State”. Dadi D, Stellmacher T, Senbeta F, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Environmental Monitoring And Assessment 189, 11 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10661-016-5694-4
Abstract: This study focuses on four textile industries (DH-GEDA, NOYA, ALMHADI, and ALSAR) established between 2005 and 2008 in the peri-urban areas of Dukem and Gelan. The objectives of the study were to generate baseline information regarding the concentration levels of selected pollutants and to analyze their effects on biophysical environments. This study also attempts to explore the level of exposure that humans and livestock have to polluted effluents and the effects thereof. The findings of this study are based on data empirically collected from two sources: laboratory analysis of sample effluents from the four selected textile plants and quantitative as well as qualitative socioeconomic data collection. As part of the latter, a household survey and focus group discussions (FGDs) with elderly and other focal persons were employed in the towns of Dukem and Gelan. The results of the study show that large concentrations of biological oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), and pH were found in all the observed textile industries, at levels beyond the permissible discharge limit set by the national Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). Furthermore, sulfide (S2), R-phosphate (R-PO43), and Zn were found in large concentrations in DH-GEDA and ALMHADI, while high concentrations were also identified in samples taken from ALSAR and ALMHADI. In spite of the clear-cut legal tools, this study shows that the local environment, people, and their livestock are exposed to highly contaminated effluents. We therefore recommend that the respective federal and regional government bodies should reexamine the compliance to and actual implementation of the existing legal procedures and regulations and respond appropriately.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.687
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1007/S10661-016-5694-4
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“Agricultural land conversion : reviewing drought impacts and coping strategies”. Azadi H, Keramati P, Taheri F, Rafiaani P, Teklemariam D, Gebrehiwot K, Hosseininia G, Van Passel S, Lebailly P, Witlox F, International Journal Of Disaster Risk Reduction 31, 184 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.IJDRR.2018.05.003
Abstract: This paper aims to review the impacts of drought on agricultural land conversion (ALC) on the one hand and the impacts of ALC on intensifying drought on the other. The paper further investigates coping strategies at three levels; i.e., micro (local), meso (national), and macro (international), in order to mitigate drought impacts that are classified as economic, social, and environmental. This paper shows that ALC, drought and coping strategies are in a reciprocal relationship and can have either a positive or negative influence on each other. The paper concludes that the complex and multidimensional nature of drought requires the development of an integrated approach that focuses on the governments collaboration with different stakeholders. Such an integrated approach can improve drought risk management implementations, decrease vulnerability and construct resilience and coping capacity at all levels in order to deal with droughts.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Government and Law
Impact Factor: 1.603
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJDRR.2018.05.003
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“Economic and environmental performances of small-scale rural PV solar projects under the clean development mechanism : the case of Cambodia”. De Schepper E, Lizin S, Durlinger B, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Energies 8, 9892 (2015). http://doi.org/10.3390/EN8099892
Abstract: The two core objectives of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) are cost-effective emission reduction and sustainable development. Despite the potential to contribute to both objectives, solar projects play a negligible role under the CDM. In this research, the greenhouse gas mitigation cost is used to evaluate the economic and environmental performances of small-scale rural photovoltaic solar projects. In particular, we compare the use of absolute and relative mitigation costs to evaluate the attractiveness of these projects under the CDM. We encourage the use of relative mitigation costs, implying consideration of baseline costs that render the projects profitable. Results of the mitigation cost analysis are dependent on the baseline chosen. To overcome this drawback, we complement the analysis with a multi-objective optimization approach, which allows quantifying the trade-off between economic and environmental performances of the optimal technologies without requiring a baseline.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.262
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.3390/EN8099892
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“Determinants of internal governance quality : evidence from corporations in Ethiopia”. Adane YG, Engida TG, Asfaw YA, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Cogent economics &, finance 6, 1537051 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1080/23322039.2018.1537051
Abstract: The study analysed the factors that affect the internal governance quality of corporations in Ethiopia. It performed an ordered logistic regression analysis on a randomly selected sample of 76 corporations to analyse the effect of the ownership structure, form of ownership (private or government), leverage, corporate size, and sales growth on the internal governance quality score (IGQS). The governance quality score was measured using 20 indices categorized into four perspectives: disclosure, board characteristics, ethics, and shareholder rights. In this study, a significant positive effect of the corporate size and sales growth on the IGQS was found. In addition, government-owned corporations were found to perform better than privately owned corporations. It is recommended that appropriate authorities and officials should encourage the use of the corporate governance system in privately owned corporations and the convergence of internal governance quality of the two groups of corporations to the highest level.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1080/23322039.2018.1537051
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“Sustainability impacts of tidal river management : towards a conceptual framework”. Al Masud MM, Moni NN, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Ecological Indicators 85, 451 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ECOLIND.2017.10.022
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.898
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECOLIND.2017.10.022
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“Attitudes of agricultural experts toward genetically modified crops : a case study in Southwest Iran”. Ghanian M, Ghoochani OM, Kitterlin M, Jahangiry S, Zarafshani K, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Science And Engineering Ethics 22, 509 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1007/S11948-015-9653-1
Abstract: The production of genetically modified (GM) crops is growing around the world, and with it possible opportunities to combat food insecurity and hunger, as well as solutions to current problems facing conventional agriculture. In this regard the use of GMOs in food and agricultural applications has increased greatly over the past decade. However, the development of GM crops has been a matter of considerable interest and worldwide public controversy. This, in addition to skepticism, has stifled the use of this practice on a large scale in many areas, including Iran. It stands to reason that a greater understanding of this practice could be formed after a review of the existing expert opinions surrounding GM crops. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze the predictors that influence agricultural experts attitudes toward the development of and policies related to GM crops. Using a descriptive correlational research method, questionnaire data was collected from 65 experts from the Agricultural Organization in the Gotvand district in Southwest Iran. Results indicated that agricultural experts were aware of the environmental benefits and possible risks associated with GM crops. The majority of participants agreed that GM crops could improve food security and accelerate rural development, and were proponents of labeling practices for GM crops. Finally, there was a positive correlation between the perception of benefits and attitudes towards GM crops.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.229
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1007/S11948-015-9653-1
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“Social sustainability assessments in the biobased economy : towards a systemic approach”. Rafiaani P, Kuppens T, Van Dael M, Azadi H, Lebailly P, Van Passel S, Renewable &, Sustainable Energy Reviews 82, 1839 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RSER.2017.06.118
Abstract: The majority of impact assessments for the biobased economy are primarily focused on the environmental and (techno-)economic aspects, while social aspects are rarely considered. This study proposes a modified systemic approach for a social sustainability impact assessment of the biobased economy, based on a review on the common methodologies for assessing social impacts. Accordingly, the proposed approach follows the four general iterative steps of social life cycle analysis (SLCA) as it considers all life cycle phases of the biobased economy. The systemic approach considers the potential social impacts on local communities, workers, and consumers as the main three groups of the stakeholders. The review showed that the most common social indicators for inventory analysis within the biobased economy include health and safety, food security, income, employment, land- and worker-related concerns, energy security, profitability, and gender issues. Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) was also highlighted as the broadly utilized methodology for aggregating the results of impact assessments within the biobased economy. Taking a life cycle perspective, this study provides a holistic view of the full sustainability of research, design, and innovation in the biobased economy by suggesting the integration of the social aspects with techno-economic and an environmental life cycle assessment. Our proposed systemic approach makes possible to integrate the social impacts that are highly valued by the affected stakeholders into the existing sustainability models that focus only on environmental and techno-economic aspects. We discuss the steps of the proposed systemic approach in order to identify the challenges of applying them within the biobased economy. These challenges refer mainly to the definition of the functional unit and system boundaries, the selection and the analysis of social indicators (inventory analysis), the aggregation of the inventory to impact categories, and the uncertainties associated with the social sustainability evaluation. The result of this review and the proposed systemic approach serve as a foundation for industry and policy makers to gain a better insight into the importance of social sustainability impacts assessment within the biobased economy.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 8.05
Times cited: 28
DOI: 10.1016/J.RSER.2017.06.118
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“Sustainability indicators of irans developmental plans : application of the sustainability compass theory”. Mahdei KN, Pouya M, Taheri F, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Sustainability 7, 14647 (2015). http://doi.org/10.3390/SU71114647
Abstract: The main purpose of this study was to analyze Irans developmental plans in order to examine and compare their direction and conformity with the sustainable development theory via the compass of sustainability. The approach involves a content analysis used in line with qualitative research methodologies. The results indicated that, in the first developmental plans, there was no direct reference to sustainable development. In the second to fifth plans, the main focus was on the social, environmental, and economic dimensions of development; which were common elements seen in the policies of all the plans. An analysis of the fourth plan revealed that expressions related to sustainable development appeared more frequently, indicating a stronger emphasis on sustainable development by decision-makers.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.789
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.3390/SU71114647
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“Adaptive capacity of smallholder farmers toward climate change: evidence from Hamadan province in Iran”. Jamshidi O, Asadi A, Kalantari K, Movahhed Moghaddam S, Dadrass Javan F, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Witlox F, Climate And Development , 1 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1080/17565529.2019.1710097
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Adaptive capacity; cross sectional survey; socio-economic variables; adaptation strategies; Hamadan province; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Impact Factor: 2.051
DOI: 10.1080/17565529.2019.1710097
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“Assessing the sustainability of community forest management : a case study from Iran”. Jafari A, Kaji HS, Azadi H, Gebrehiwot K, Aghamir F, Van Passel S, Forest Policy And Economics 96, 1 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.FORPOL.2018.08.001
Abstract: The development of sustainability criteria and indicators is necessary to assess the current management and to recognize appropriate management approaches towards sustainable forest management (SFM). The aim of this study is to assess the sustainability of current management in the Dopolan community forest and assess alternative management scenarios towards SFM. To this end, we applied multi criteria analysis which consists of three steps: a) developing a primary set of criteria and indicators (C&Is) on focus groups discussions, b) finalizing and weighing the set of C&Is, applying a pair wise comparison as well as ranking method, and c) assessing the current forest management regimes and alternative scenarios against a set of C&Is. As a result, 8 criteria and 40 indicators were selected. Our results indicated that to achieve SFM, the criteria including forest protection against natural and human factors, the establishment of appropriate legal and institutional requirements and socioeconomic functions of forests, are the most important criteria (weighted 14.60%, 14.28% and 13.96%, respectively). Assessing the current management regimes revealed that the criteria consisting of biodiversity conservation and local communities' awareness have the maximum distance to SFM (weighted 7.75% and 9.18%, respectively). Among the alternative forest management scenarios, the sixth scenario namely conservation and rehabilitation, local investment attraction in forest conservation and rehabilitation, enabling and capacity building of forest inhabitants were realized as the best scenarios (weighted 26.20%) to achieve SFM. A joint effort of the concerned government forestry officials and local people is needed to enhance the sustainability of all community based forestry models.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.982
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORPOL.2018.08.001
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“Prospects of solar systems in production chain of sunflower oil using cold press method with concentrating energy and life cycle assessment”. Nabavi-Pelesaraei A, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Saber Z, Hosseini-Fashami F, Mostashari-Rad F, Ghasemi-Mobtaker H, Energy 223, 120117 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ENERGY.2021.120117
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.52
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENERGY.2021.120117
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“A systematic review of environmental and economic impacts of smart grids”. Moretti M, Njakou Djomo S, Azadi H, May K, De Vos K, Van Passel S, Witters N, Renewable &, Sustainable Energy Reviews 68, 888 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RSER.2016.03.039
Abstract: Smart grids (SGs) have a central role in the development of the global power sector. Cost-benefit analyses and environmental impact assessments are used to support policy on the deployment of SG systems and technologies. However, the conflicting and widely varying estimates of costs, benefits, greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction, and energy savings in literature leave policy makers struggling with how to advise regarding SG deployment. Identifying the causes for the wide variation of individual estimates in the literature is crucial if evaluations are to be used in decision-making. This paper (i) summarizes and compares the methodologies used for economic and environmental evaluation of SGs (ii) identifies the sources of variation in estimates across studies, and (iii) point to gap in research on economic and environmental analyses of SG systems. Seventeen studies (nine articles and eight reports published between 2000 and 2015) addressing the economic costs versus benefits, energy efficiency, and GHG emissions of SGs were systematically searched, located, selected, and reviewed. Their methods and data were subsequently extracted and analysed. The results show that no standardized method currently exists for assessing the economic and environmental impacts of SG systems. The costs varied between 0.03 and 1143 M/yr, while the benefits ranged from 0.04 to 804 M/yr, suggesting that SG systems do not result in cost savings The primary energy savings ranged from 0.03 to 0.95 MJ/kWh, whereas the GHG emission reduction ranged from 10 to 180 gCO2/kWh, depending on the country grid mix and the system boundary of the SG system considered. The findings demonstrate that although SG systems are energy efficient and reduce GHG emissions, investments in SG systems may not yield any benefits. Standardizing some methodologies and assumptions such as discount rates, time horizon and scrutinizing some key input data will result in more consistent estimates of costs and benefits, GHG emission reduction, and energy savings.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 8.05
Times cited: 27
DOI: 10.1016/J.RSER.2016.03.039
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“Five-year development plans of renewable energy policies in Iran : a content analysis”. Dehhaghi S, Choobchian S, Ghobadian B, Farhadian H, Viira A-H, Stefanie HI, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Sustainability 14, 1501 (2022). http://doi.org/10.3390/SU14031501
Abstract: Renewable energy (RE) policies can play an effective role in the development of renewable resources. The main goal of this paper was to conduct a content analysis on RE development policies in Iran's five-year National Development Plan (NDP) by investigating upstream national documents. To achieve the goal, 29 upstream documents related to RE were identified and analyzed through a systematic literature review. Then, a qualitative content analysis was applied to analyze the documents. The results showed that Iran's current RE policies need to be reviewed, reformed, and strengthened. For example, lack of sufficient attention to renewable heat and fuel was one of the deficiencies of RE policies in Iran's five-year NDP. The decentralization of policymaking in the unified organization was also one of the weaknesses in the policymaking process of the RE. Iran can develop sustainable and clean RE policies by using sources such as solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower, wave, and tidal power. The paper concludes that, although RE policies have the potential for development in Iran due to environmental, social, and economic advantages, they could face some infrastructural, managerial, socio-cultural, and economic challenges. Accordingly, effective and innovative policymaking is required to meet such challenges.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.9
DOI: 10.3390/SU14031501
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“Determinants of commercial bank loan and advance disbursement : the case of private Ethiopian commercial banks”. Birhanu T, Deressa SB, Azadi H, Viira A-H, Van Passel S, Witlox F, International journal of bank marketing 39, 1227 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1108/IJBM-05-2021-0166
Abstract: Purpose This paper aimed to investigate the determinants of loans and advances from commercial banks in the case of Ethiopian private commercial banks. Design/methodology/approach The study randomly selected seven commercial banks to represent the population stratified on their asset, deposit and paid-up capital amounts. The study utilized an unbalanced panel data model as each bank started operation at a different period of time and considered the period 1995-2016 for secondary details. Findings The findings showed that the deposit size, credit risk, portfolio investment, average lending rate, real gross domestic product (GDP) and inflation rate had significant and optimistic effects on the lending and advancement of private commercial banks. On the contrary, liquidity ratio had significant and negative effects on private commercial bank loans and advances. Finally, the study forwarded a feasible recommendation for concerned organs to focus on deposit size, credit risk, portfolio investment, average lending rate, real GDP, inflation rate and liquidity ratio. The results of this study will help banking industry policymakers and planners understand how to minimize inflation and unemployment by improving development and sustainable economic growth. Originality/value The findings of this study can also affect the general attitudes of a society by increasing knowledge and improve the quality of life for the general public.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1108/IJBM-05-2021-0166
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“A critical view on social performance assessment at company level : social life cycle analysis of an algae case”. Rafiaani P, Kuppens T, Thomassen G, Van Dael M, Azadi H, Lebailly P, Van Passel S, International Journal Of Life Cycle Assessment (2020). http://doi.org/10.1007/S11367-019-01702-X
Abstract: Purpose Social indicators are not easy to be quantitatively analyzed, although at the local scale, the social impacts might be relevant and important. Using the existing approaches for both quantitative and semi-qualitative measurements, this study aims to assess the social impacts of a company working on algae production systems in Belgium through social life cycle analysis (SLCA). By highlighting the opportunities and challenges on the way of applying the existing SLCA approaches at company level, the objective of this study is to contribute to the development of a suitable and clear SLCA approach when a company is considered as the unit of analysis. Methods Based on the list of potential social impact categories suggested by the United Nations Environment Program/Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (UNEP/SETAC) guidelines (2009) for SLCA, three stakeholder groups (workers, consumers, and local community) and three subcategories associated with each stakeholder group were identified as the most relevant for carbon capture and utilization technologies. Company and sector level data were collected using existing documents and reports, and the data were analyzed and scored using a combined quantitative and semi-quantitative approach to develop a social assessment model for the case study. Results and discussion The company appears to perform well for all the evaluated social indicators except the one related to the subcategory “equal opportunity/discrimination for workers” for which the share of women employed is lower compared with the sector-level data. The results of our assessment were further discussed regarding the challenges and limitations of performing SLCA at the company level. Based on our experience, the validity of the outcomes is significantly influenced by the data availability, the generality of the indicators introduced within the UNEP/SETAC guidelines, and the subjectivity in data collection for the semi-quantitative assessment among others. Conclusions By highlighting the difficulties and challenges of applying the SLCA at the company level, our study provides a starting point for improving the quantitative assessment and monitoring social implications at the company level within a regional foreground in Europe.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.8
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1007/S11367-019-01702-X
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“Drought risk assessment: Towards drought early warning system and sustainable environment in western Iran”. Sharafi L, Zarafshani K, Keshavarz M, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Ecological Indicators 114, 106276 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2020.106276
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Drought; Early warning system; Risk management; Vulnerability; Environmental risk; Resilient farming; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolind.2020.106276
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“Organic farming and small-scale farmers : main opportunities and challenges”. Jouzi Z, Azadi H, Taheri F, Zarafshani K, Gebrehiwot K, Van Passel S, Lebailly P, Ecological Economics 132, 144 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2016.10.016
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.965
Times cited: 39
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2016.10.016
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“Access to preferential loans for poverty reduction and rural development : evidence from Vietnam”. Lan Thanh Nguyen, Anh Pham Hoai Nguyen, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Lebailly P, Journal Of Economic Issues 52, 246 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1080/00213624.2018.1430953
Abstract: Preferential loans play an important role in the process of reducing poverty in developing countries. Considering the data set from the 2010 Vietnam Household Living Standards Survey, we aim to examine the influential factors in probability of households getting access to preferential loans. Additionally, we analyze the determinants of household income in association with the loans by applying a quantile regression model. Our results show that ethnicity-related factors have the largest marginal effect on the access to preferential loans. The results from the quantile regression model demonstrate that the debt factor has a deeper impact on the borrowing group at the lower quantiles of household income.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 0.581
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1080/00213624.2018.1430953
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“Economic indices of by-products utilization and forage production in semi-arid rangelands”. Motamedi J, Azadi H, Alijanpour A, Shafiei AB, Sheidai-Karkaj E, Mofidi-Chelan M, Moghaddam SM, Van Passel S, Witlox F, Journal of environmental planning and management , 1 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1080/09640568.2022.2071687
Abstract: One of the most basic criteria in documenting rangeland use prospects is the recognition of byproducts and their economic appraisal. The current study was conducted to assess the economic indices of exploiting byproduct production in Shahindej, Northwest Iran. For this purpose, 24 by-product-generating species were selected in 114 locations that belong to 49 rangeland units. The total expected value of 24 by-product generating species yield and forage production was calculated at 44.22 USD ha(-1). The results of this study showed that the sustainability of natural resources depends on the effective participation and empowerment of local communities. Furthermore, by-product exploitation contributes significantly to the local economy and employment while also reducing grazing intensity. Overall, the findings of this study show that by-product earnings should be considered in range management schemes and comprehensive natural-area management.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sociology; Law; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.56
DOI: 10.1080/09640568.2022.2071687
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“Marketing innovation in rural small food industries in Iran”. Soltani S, Azadi H, Hosseini SJF, Witlox F, Van Passel S, Journal of food products marketing 21, 533 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1080/10454446.2015.1041196
Abstract: Marketing innovation is essential for small industries to transform products into profit; therefore, understanding its nature and determinants is of utmost importance. This study aimed at understanding marketing innovation and its determinants in the 60 small food industries in the rural areas of Tehran province, Iran. Using a census sampling method, 111 managers of these firms were interviewed. Results showed that the firms performance in marketing innovation is generally weak, and a higher level of radical innovation in marketing is perceived compared to the incremental innovation. Also, a cause-and-effect relationship exists between both product and organizational innovations and marketing innovation. Furthermore, while incremental marketing innovation was negatively influenced by formal R&D unit, product diversification, and the managers years of experience, radical marketing innovation was affected by the capacity of production, product diversification, and managers age and education. The study concluded that in order to boost marketing innovation, innovation should be made also in products and organization. In addition, in order to facilitate the process of marketing innovation, practical and updated training for managers encouraging incremental innovation in marketing, product diversification, and improving R&D activities in the studied firms should be regarded.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Government and Law
DOI: 10.1080/10454446.2015.1041196
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“Land-use suitability in Northeast Iran : application of AHP-GIS hybrid model”. Memarbashi E, Azadi H, Barati AA, Mohajeri F, Van Passel S, Witlox F, Isprs International Journal Of Geo-Information 6, 396 (2017). http://doi.org/10.3390/IJGI6120396
Abstract: Land-use suitability is the ability of a given type of land to support a defined use. Analysis of land-use suitability requires the consideration of a variety of criteria, not only the natural/physical capacity of a land unit, but also its socioeconomic and environmental impact implications. As land suitability is assessed within a Geographic Information System (GIS) environment, it is formulated as a multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) problem. The study was conducted in the Sangab Plain in northeast Iran. We investigated the study areas suitability for grassland and agricultural uses. A hybrid method of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and GIS methodology was applied to evaluate land suitability based on a set of criteria and sub-criteria. Results showed that 20% of the study area had high (rich), 65% had medium (fair), and 15% had low (poor) suitability for agriculture. In terms of grassland use, the comparable amounts were, respectively, about 7%, 23%, and 70%. The lands of the Sangab Plain have medium potential for agricultural use and low potential for grassland use. This paper used both qualitative and quantitative techniques.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Government and Law
Impact Factor: 0.371
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.3390/IJGI6120396
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“Does contract length matter? The impact of various contract-farming regimes on land-improvement investment and the efficiency of contract farmers in Pakistan”. Mazhar R, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Varnik R, Pietrzykowski M, Skominas R, Wei Z, Xuehao B, Agriculture (Basel) 13, 1651 (2023). http://doi.org/10.3390/AGRICULTURE13091651
Abstract: Land-tenure security is integral to local communities' socioeconomic development. It has been a center of debate in academia and for legislators and advocates to implement reforms to enhance efficient and sustainable development in land management. Yet, knowledge gaps remain in how various contract-farming regimes contribute to land-improvement investment and technical efficiency. This study used a data set of 650 farm households collected through a two-stage stratified sampling to investigate the influence of three contract-farming regimes: long-term, medium-term, and short-term contracts, on the land-improvement investment, productivity, and technical efficiency of contract farmers in Punjab, Pakistan. The study used multivariate probit and ordinary least square regression models to examine the posit relationships. The findings highlight that farmers with long-term land contracts have higher per hectare yield, income and profit than those with medium-term and short-term contracts. The results confirm that farmers with medium- and long-term contracts tend to invest more in land-improvement measures, i.e., organic and green manure. Further, the study findings demonstrate that long-term land tenures are more effective when farmers make decisions regarding the on-farm infrastructure, like tube-well installation, tractor ownership, and holding farm logistics. Last, the study results confirm that long-term contracts are more robust regarding technical efficiency. Moreover, the findings support the Marshallian inefficiency hypothesis and extend the literature on contract farming, land-improvement investment, and land use policy, and offer coherent policy actions for stakeholders to improve farmers' productivity, technical efficiency, and income.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.3390/AGRICULTURE13091651
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“Renewable energy development in rural areas of Iran”. Afsharzade N, Papzan A, Ashjaee M, Delangizan S, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Renewable &, Sustainable Energy Reviews 65, 743 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RSER.2016.07.042
Abstract: Iran's energy system is extremely dependent on fossil fuels which, in turn, have led to problems such as fossil fuels depletion, social, economic and environmental damage and territorial imbalance. The country should therefore design a sustainable energy system based on clean energy as well as renewable energy. Accordingly, and given that Iran's rural areas suffer from the unsustainable energy system, it is necessary to integrate renewable energy into comprehensive development programs in general, and into rural development programs, specifically. This review paper answers the following questions: Why is renewable energy important for Iran at national and rural levels? How is renewable energy related to sustainable rural development? and What are the challenges in the promotion of renewable energy technologies in Iran? The paper concludes that although renewable energy has potential for development in Iran's rural areas due to environmental, social and economic advantages, it could face some infrastructural, managerial, socio-cultural and economic challenges. Accordingly, aggressive and innovative policy making is required to meet these challenges. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 8.05
Times cited: 41
DOI: 10.1016/J.RSER.2016.07.042
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“Take out the farmer: An economic assessment of land expropriation for urban expansion in Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia”. Admasu WF, Van Passel S, Minale AS, Tsegaye EA, Azadi H, Nyssen J, Land Use Policy 87, 104038 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.LANDUSEPOL.2019.104038
Abstract: In Ethiopia, the demand for land for urbanisation is primarily met by converting rural land through expropriation. However, land expropriations are adversely affecting the previous land users by reducing the amount of production and their sources of income. In Bahir Dar, one of the fastest-growing cities in Ethiopia, approximately 300 landholdings are expropriated each year, on average, for urban expansion. This paper assesses the land expropriations to examine whether they offer economically appropriate compensation for the previous land users. Land expropriations for urbanisation between 2007/2008 and 2016/2017 were analysed based on data on land expropriation and its compensation payment obtained from the Bahir Dar City Land Administration and Management Office. Data were analysed using an exponential growth model and a stochastic budgeting technique in which Monte Carlo simulations are performed. Between 2007/2008 and 2016/2017, more than 1500 ha of land were included in the city's boundary through expropriation from 2900 landholders. The affected farmers received compensation that represents only 37 per cent of the value of current crop yields and its growth. The current compensation scheme ignores the impact of inflation on the prices of crops and assumes constant yields. It also excludes the value of crop residuals. We propose a workable discounted compensation framework that considers crop price and yield growths. This will make the compensation scheme more appropriate and make the affected farmers better off.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.089
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1016/J.LANDUSEPOL.2019.104038
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“Agricultural land conversion drivers in Northeast Iran : application of structural equation model”. Azadi H, Akbar Barati A, Rafiaani P, Raufirad V, Zarafshani K, Mamoorian M, Van Passel S, Lebailly P, Applied Spatial Analysis And Policy 9, 591 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1007/S12061-015-9160-4
Abstract: Identifying driving forces behind agricultural land conversion (ALC) remains one of the most difficult challenges that agricultural and environmental scientists must continually deal with. The difficulty emerges from the fact that in ALC, multiple actions and interactions between different factors (i.e., economic, political, environmental, biophysical, institutional, and cultural) exist and make it difficult to understand the function of the processes behind the changes. The phenomenon of ALC in different countries is varied in terms of intensity, trends and drivers. The main goal of this study was to understand these drivers in Northeast Iran through applying structural equation model (SEM). Using multi-stage stratified random sampling, 101 executive officers participated in the study. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire. A multi-stakeholder analysis and a mixed-method (qualitative and quantitative) approach were applied. Results revealed that not only from the policy makers perspective but also based on the SEM, economic, political, technological, social and environmental factors should respectively be the five major drivers of ALC. The results also showed that among other drivers, more profitability of non-agriculture sectors, excessive rising of land prices, farmers income instability, land fragmentation, urban sprawl and inheritance laws are the main six causes of ALC. Hence, it can be concluded that policy-makers and planners need to take these drivers and subsidiaries more into consideration in order to properly respond to ALC.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.825
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1007/S12061-015-9160-4
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