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“Modeling the Impact of Urbanization on Land-Use Change in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia: An Integrated Cellular Automata–Markov Chain Approach”. Fitawok MB, Derudder B, Minale AS, Van Passel S, Adgo E, Nyssen J, Land 9, 115 (2020). http://doi.org/10.3390/land9040115
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; analytical hierarchy process; cellular automata; land-use change; Markov chain; urbanization; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
DOI: 10.3390/land9040115
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“A cross-European analysis of the impact of electricity pricing on battery uptake in residential microgrids with photovoltaic units”. Saviuc I, Milis K, Peremans H, Van Passel S, Journal of Sustainable Development of Energy, Water and Environment Systems 9, 1080368 (2021). http://doi.org/10.13044/J.SDEWES.D8.0368
Abstract: As decentralized electricity generation is supporting grid development into the prosumer era, this paper investigates the economic viability of adding batteries to residential microgrids powered by photovoltaic units, under various electricity pricing schemes. Batteries bring the benefits of grid-stabilization and congestion relief, and they are also becoming cheaper. The problem identified is that the main grid effectively acts as a lossless storage system, especially under the net-metering scheme, whereas using a battery involves investment costs and energy losses. This mismatch is addressed by analysing residential microgrid projects under seven tariff designs, each in seven countries of the European Union, and compare the economic viability of photovoltaic systems with and without batteries. The findings show that the conditions most favourable to batteries are given by a capacity tariff scheme allowing price arbitrage. Based on these findings, the paper discusses possibilities for further support in order to bring the economic viability of microgrids with batteries on par with that of microgrids without batteries.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.13044/J.SDEWES.D8.0368
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“Agricultural technical efficiency of smallholder farmers in Ethiopia : a stochastic frontier approach”. Chekol Zewdie M, Moretti M, Tenessa DB, Ayele ZA, Nyssen J, Tsegaye EA, Minale AS, Van Passel S, Land 10, 246 (2021). http://doi.org/10.3390/LAND10030246
Abstract: In the past decade, to improve crop production and productivity, Ethiopia has embarked on an ambitious irrigation farming expansion program and has introduced new large- and small-scale irrigation initiatives. However, in Ethiopia, poverty remains a challenge, and crop productivity per unit area of land is very low. Literature on the technical efficiency (TE) of large-scale and small-scale irrigation user farmers as compared to the non-user farmers in Ethiopia is also limited. Investigating smallholder farmers' TE level and its principal determinants is very important to increase crop production and productivity and to improve smallholder farmers' livelihood and food security. Using 1026 household-level cross-section data, this study adopts a technology flexible stochastic frontier approach to examine agricultural TE of large-scale irrigation users, small-scale irrigation users and non-user farmers in Ethiopia. The results indicate that, due to poor extension services and old-style agronomic practices, the mean TE of farmers is very low (44.33%), implying that there is a wider room for increasing crop production in the study areas through increasing the TE of smallholder farmers without additional investment in novel agricultural technologies. Results also show that large-scale irrigation user farmers (21.05%) are less technically efficient than small-scale irrigation user farmers (60.29%). However, improving irrigation infrastructure shifts the frontier up and has a positive impact on smallholder farmers' output.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.3390/LAND10030246
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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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“Beyond focus : exploring variability of service provision of agricultural cooperatives”. Sebhatu KT, Taheri F, Berhanu T, Maertens M, Van Passel S, D'Haese M, Annals of public and cooperative economics 92, 207 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1111/APCE.12301
Abstract: The wide array of services provided by agricultural cooperatives for their members is often not considered in academic studies. Addressing this gap in the literature, our paper explores the wide array of services provided by agricultural cooperatives and how these extend beyond those they were initially intended to provide. We study the extent and characteristics of service portfolios from 511 agricultural cooperatives in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. Results from two-limit Tobit models confirm that government and NGO-initiated cooperatives have a wide service portfolio compared to member-initiated cooperatives. In many of the studied cooperatives, the services they provide and their portfolios are more diverse than expected. Cooperatives seem to go beyond their focal areas of intervention. Also, those cooperatives that are more outward-oriented and where the chair has contact with other cooperatives or businesses, have a wider service portfolio. These results may help to explain the mixed findings on the impact of cooperative membership.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1111/APCE.12301
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“Climate variability and macroeconomic output in Ethiopia : the analysis of nexus and impact via asymmetric autoregressive distributive lag cointegration method”. Berihun D, Van Passel S, Environment, development and sustainability (2021). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10668-021-01604-9
Abstract: Ethiopia showed a rapid, yet, a none resilient economic growth much threatened by climate variability. In Ethiopia, the adverse effects of climate variability are stipulated among the significant factors constraining its economic development. There are relatively few studies about the adverse effects of climate variability on the Ethiopian macroeconomy. In this context, little is known about the exact effects of the ongoing climate variability on Ethiopian macroeconomic growth. This study intends to examine whether climate variability factors, for instance rainfall and temperature, have an effect on the macroeconomic output of Ethiopia. An asymmetric autoregressive distributive lag cointegration method is used to investigate time-series data for the years 1950-2014. Diagnostic tests show the relevance of the applied method and robustness of our results. The study finds climate variability affects Ethiopia's economic growth in the long run. Rainfall and temperature fluctuation induce significant negative impacts. A percentage annual temperature variability for instance decreases the Ethiopian annual gross domestic yield (GDP) up to 4.5 percent. In the short run, climate variability particularly rainfall and temperature changes also have a profound effect on Ethiopia's economic output. Within such confirmed climate change impacts, Ethiopia should carry out more on adapting and mitigating the impacts as it is presented on its climate-resilient economic growth policies and strategies. In spite of the policy contribution of the results, the study will motivate further research and will also serve as a benchmark for the coming Ethiopian studies.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1007/S10668-021-01604-9
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“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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“Exploring variability across cooperatives : economic performance of agricultural cooperatives in northern Ethiopia”. Sebhatu KT, Gezahegn TW, Berhanu T, Maertens M, Van Passel S, D'Haese M, The international food and agribusiness management review 24, 397 (2021). http://doi.org/10.22434/IFAMR2019.0215
Abstract: The number of agricultural cooperatives increased quickly in Ethiopia since the 1990s. While many papers studied the impact of membership of Ethiopian cooperatives, not much is known on their performance. This study takes a cooperative-level perspective which is unique in an African context. It compares the economic performance proxied by sales revenue and profit of a wide range of agricultural cooperatives in northern Ethiopia. Data were collected from 511 agricultural cooperatives in 12 districts of Tigray. The contributing factors of the performance are analyzed with Ordinary Least Squares regression (OLS) and Heckman selection models. Our results underscore the importance of membership size, total assets, presence of conflict among members, and union membership. Chairperson characteristics and the internal organization of a cooperative seem to be less correlated to performance.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.22434/IFAMR2019.0215
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“Farmers' willingness to contribute to the restoration of an Ethiopian Rift Valley lake : a contingent valuation study”. Girma H, Huge J, Gebrehiwot M, Van Passel S, Environment, development and sustainability 23, 10646 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10668-020-01076-3
Abstract: Lakes provide considerable social, economic, and ecological benefits. However, lakes are shrinking and the water quality is declining, due to human pressures such as water withdrawal and land use change, particularly in the developing world. Despite this, information regarding the economic impact of lake level reduction and local willingness to support restoration programs is lacking. This study employed a contingent valuation method to estimate willingness to pay and to contribute labor to Lake Ziway restoration program, Ethiopia. Face-to-face interviews were administered to 259 randomly selected respondents. Our findings revealed that about one-third of the respondents are willing to pay and about two-third are willing to contribute labor to restore the lake. From the interval regression models, the annual mean willingness to pay was estimated about 21.0 USD for the status quo scenario (the program works to keep water levels constant at current levels) and 31.1 USD for the improvement scenario (the program works to increase the water levels permanently). The annual mean willingness to contribute labor was estimated about 27.7 man-days for the status quo and 39.3 man-days for the improvement scenarios. 'Farm income' positively influenced the willingness to pay together with 'farm plot area.' Similarly, labor contribution was positively influenced by 'farm plot area' and 'education' and negatively by 'farm plot distance.' The economic values derived from this study reflect societal preferences and can form a significant input for policymakers, in support of informed and evidence-based decision-making regarding lake management and restoration in developing countries like Ethiopia.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1007/S10668-020-01076-3
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“Integrating PV+battery residential microgrids in distribution networks : how is the point of common coupling agreed upon?”.Saviuc I, Van Passel S, Peremans H in Sustainable Energy for Smart Cities : First EAI International Conference, SESC 2019, Braga, Portugal, December 4–6, 2019: proceedings, page 150 (2020).
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: H1 Book chapter; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-45694-8_12
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Vicca S, Crabbé, A, Van Passel S (2020) Is het coronavirus goed nieuws voor het klimaat? = Is the coronavirus good news for the climate?
Keywords: Newspaper/Magazine/blog article; Sociology; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change; Centre for Research on Environmental and Social Change
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“Leasing out unused meeting room capacity to reduce future office space needs : a case study of The Hague, Netherlands”. Peeters M, Compernolle T, Van Passel S, Journal of building engineering 44, 102953 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JOBE.2021.102953
Abstract: Meeting rooms are reserved 30% of working hours but only used for 20% of that time. By implementing a strategy where the available capacity is leased to the wider market rather than just the building users, there is a positive impact on the economic, environmental, and social factors of the building and its surroundings. This study uses the building 'The Globe' in The Hague as a case study, and then projects the results to the entire city. In case of The Globe, implementing a lease out strategy achieves a reduction of 36% of the annual rent of the meeting rooms to the building's tenant. The owner benefits from a revenue increase of 12.5%, with the same operational expenses (except the reservation system), leading to a proportional higher valuation of the building. Annual energy consumption may be lowered by 6.2%. This study contributes to the literature by considering the total benefits that could be obtained by more efficient use of office space that is currently underused. The application of technology generates added value for economic, environmental, and social factors. These factors are important in real estate as they (among others) have a direct link to the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) analysis that investors make before proceeding with an investment.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1016/J.JOBE.2021.102953
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“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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“Uncovering ecosystem services of expropriated land : the case of urban expansion in Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia”. Admasu WF, Boerema A, Nyssen J, Minale AS, Tsegaye EA, Van Passel S, Land 9, 395 (2020). http://doi.org/10.3390/LAND9100395
Abstract: In Ethiopia, urban expansion happens at high rates and results in land expropriations often at the cost of agriculture and forests. The process of urban expansion does not include assessment of ecosystem services (ES). This has been causing unintended environmental problems. This study aims to uncover ES of three most important land use types (cropland, agroforestry, and grassland) that are threatened by land expropriation for urban expansion in Bahir Dar City. The study applied a participatory approach using community perception and expert judgments (N = 108). Respondents were asked to locate their perceptions on the use of 35 different ES, and then to evaluate the potential of the land use. Respondents were shown to have the ability to differentiate between ES and land use in terms of their potential to deliver ES. The results show that agroforestry is expected to have a high relevant potential to deliver 31% of all ES, but cropland 20% and grassland 14%. Food, fodder, timber, firewood, fresh water, energy, compost, climate regulation, erosion prevention, and water purification and treatment were identified as the ten most important services. It is not only the provisioning services that are being supplied by the land use types which are expropriated for urbanization, but also regulating, supporting and cultural services. To ensure sustainable urban land development, we suggest the consideration of the use of ES and the potential of the land use to supply ES when making land use decisions, including land expropriation for urban expansion.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM); Ecosystem Management
DOI: 10.3390/LAND9100395
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“Analyzing the impact of land expropriation program on farmers' livelihood in urban fringes of Bahir Dar, Ethiopia”. Fitawok MB, Derudder B, Minale AS, Van Passel S, Adgo E, Nyssen J, Habitat International 129, 102674 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.HABITATINT.2022.102674
Abstract: This paper analyzes the impact of urban land-use changes on farmers' livelihood around the city of Bahir Dar (Ethiopia). Rapid urban expansion in and around the city has resulted in massive land-use changes in its urban fringes, with land expropriation programs affecting communities' livelihood and the environment. A survey was conducted in three urbanizing villages near Bahir Dar, focusing on 150 farmers who were land-expropriated and 180 farmers who were non-land-expropriated. Regression models and propensity matching scoring are applied to examine the livelihood differences of farmers in terms of farm income, off-farm income, primary expenditure type, and perception of urban expansion benefits to farmers. The results reveal that land expropriation in the area has led to (a) a shift to off-farm income for land expropriated farmers; (b) an increase in their household expenditure on staple foods compared to other expenditure types, including farm inputs; and (c) diverging perceptions on whether and how city expansion benefits farmers in the neighboring villages. Our findings provide insight into the need for tighter and impactful policy actions to ensure the sustainability of urbanization through accommodating expropriated farmers' livelihood changes and protecting natural resources in the area.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sociology; Law; Art; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.285
DOI: 10.1016/J.HABITATINT.2022.102674
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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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“How do western European farms behave and respond to climate change? A simultaneous irrigation-crop decision model”. Vanschoenwinkel J, Vancauteren M, Van Passel S, Climate change economics 13, 2250009 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1142/S2010007822500099
Abstract: Most farm adaptations are reactive actions that run the risk of locking farm systems into suboptimal long-term trajectories. This is especially the case with regard to water management as water scarcity will be aggravated by climate change. This paper looks into farm irrigation choices in combination with crop choices because a proper crop choice has the potential to reduce water requirements. It proposes an extended Ricardian model to capture multiple adaptation decisions explicitly. The new simultaneous irrigation-crop farm decision model uses spatially detailed farm-level data of over 18,000 European farms on irrigation and seven different crop choices. The analysis shows that larger farmers and farmers in less water-scarce regions that use irrigation are more sensitive to temperature increases than rain-fed agriculture. This might be explained by the fact that these farmers do not experience the real cost of water scarcity because of which they take less efficient decisions.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1142/S2010007822500099
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“Market power and sustainability : a new research agenda”. Biely K, Van Passel S, Discover Sustainability 3, 5 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1007/S43621-022-00073-Y
Abstract: Perfectly operating markets only exist in theory. Market failures are known to not only inhibit the proper functioning of the market, but also affect sustainability and thus a sustainability transition. In this regard, much attention has been paid to externalities or missing markets, even though these are not the only market failures. In this paper, we argue that market power and its relationship with sustainability has been neglected, despite the fact that, back in 1931, Hotelling indicated the connection between the two concepts. However, research that has been dealing with this connection has not been comprehensive and has only looked at one aspect of sustainability and market power. Due to the rising relevance of market power as well as of sustainability concerns, the connection between the two deserves thorough attention. Accordingly, we propose initiating a new interdisciplinary research agenda to comprehensively analyze the complex relationship between market power and sustainability.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1007/S43621-022-00073-Y
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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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Finizola e Silva M, Van Schoubroeck S, Cools J, Aboge DO, Ouma M, Olweny C, Van Passel S (2024) Local actors' perspectives on sustainable food value chains : evidence from a Q-methodology study in Kenya. 36–51
Abstract: Governments and international organizations are increasingly determined to create more sustainable food value chains (SFVCs). However, only little empirical evidence is available on how SFVCs are understood. Enquiring African food value chain actors allows gathering valuable insights into their perception of sustainability, which characteristics of sustainable food value chains they prioritize, and which obstacles to a sustainable transformation they identify. By means of a Q-methodology involving interviews with 33 Kenyan respondents, four perspectives were distinguished. The first perspective, “economic productivity and growth,” prioritizes economic growth and has only limited attention to the social dimension of sustainability. The second perspective, “food security and food availability,” believes that ensuring food security should be the key goal of SFVCs. The third perspective, “environment first,” is dedicated to the environmental dimension of sustainability; the perspective implies that protecting natural resources is the primary way to sustain this level of production. The fourth perspective, “transformative knowledge,” entails that by innovating and sharing knowledge, food value chains can become more sustainable in different areas. Overall, this study provides reliable insights into how Kenyan food value chain actors perceive sustainability in their sector and which elements they believe should be prioritized when rethinking food systems. The study results are valuable for policy-making to further define an SFVC in Kenya and to pave the way for a sustainable transformation of the food sector in developing countries.
Keywords: Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1007/S13412-023-00854-5
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“A Ricardian analysis of climate change impacts on Japan's agriculture : accounting for solar radiation”. Okamura I, Van Passel S, Fabri C, Senda T, Climate change economics 14, 2350022 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1142/S2010007823500227
Abstract: This study evaluates the effects of climate change on the net revenue of farmers in Japan. We adopted the Ricardian model, which implicitly accounts for farmers’ full adaptation. The main findings of this study are as follows. First, the Ricardian regression shows that changes in temperature significantly impact farmers’ net revenue. In contrast, changes in precipitation have limited effects on farmers’ net revenue. The results of future predictions showed that the effects of climate change are positive across the country, with varying degrees between north and south. These results are more optimistic than those in the existing literature, which frequently reveal negative climate change impacts in southern Japan. However, it should be noted that this model assumes full adaptation and does not consider the transition costs of farmers, and understanding the actual adaptive measures is an important remaining issue.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1142/S2010007823500227
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Finizola e Silva M, Cools J, Cools J, Van Passel S (2024) A systematic review identifying the drivers and barriers to the adoption of climate-smart agriculture by smallholder farmers in Africa. 1356335–14
Abstract: Climate change impact, food security concerns, and greenhouse gas emissions are pressuring agricultural production systems in developing countries. There is a need for a shift toward sustainable food systems. One of the concepts introduced to drive this shift is climate-smart agriculture (CSA), endorsed by international organizations to address multifaceted challenges. Despite widespread attention and support, the adoption of CSA among African farmers remains low. This systematic literature review aims to shed light on the factors influencing CSA adoption amongst African farmers. Within the articles identified as relevant, over 50 CSA practices and more than 40 factors influencing CSA adoption were distinguished. These influencing factors can be categorized as personal, farm- related, financial, environmental, and informational. The focus of this review is to identify and explain the overall impact (positive, negative, or mixed) of these factors on CSA adoption. Overall, many factors result in mixed effects, only some factors have an unambiguous positive or negative effect on CSA adoption. For instance, educational level emerges as a key personal factor, positively impacting CSA adoption, along with positive influences from farmers’ experience and farm size among farm-related factors. Financial factors reveal distinct patterns, with income from farming and access to credit positively influencing adoption, while off-farm income exhibits a negative effect. Environmental factors, though less researched, indicate positive impacts related to changes in rainfall patterns, temperature, and droughts. Lastly, informational factors consistently exhibit a positive effect on CSA adoption, with training, access to extension, group memberships, climate information, and CSA awareness playing crucial roles. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers seeking to enhance CSA adoption in Africa, offering a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted dynamics at play.
Keywords: Administrative Services; A3 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.3389/FREVC.2024.1356335
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“Reducing winter peaks in electricity consumption: A choice experiment to structure demand response programs”. Srivastava A, Van Passel S, Kessels R, Valkering P, Laes E, Energy Policy 137, 111183 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2019.111183
Abstract: Winter peaks in Belgian electricity demand are significantly higher than the summer peaks, creating a greater potential for imbalances between demand and supply. This potential is exacerbated because of the risk of outages in its ageing nuclear power plants, which are being phased out in the medium term. This paper conducts a choice experiment to investigate the acceptability of a load control-based demand response program in the winter months. It surveys 186 respondents on their willingness to accept limits on the use of home appliances in return for a compensation. Results indicate that respondents are most affected by the days of the week that their appliance usage would be curtailed, and by the compensation they would receive. The willingness to enroll in a program increases with age, environmental consciousness, home ownership, and lower privacy concerns. The analysis predicts that 95% of the sample surveyed could enroll in a daily load control program for a compen- sation of €41 per household per year. Thus while an initial rollout among older and more pro-environment homeowners could be successful, a wider implementation would require an explanation of its environmental and financial benefits to the population, and a greater consideration of their data privacy concerns.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Impact Factor: 9
DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2019.111183
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“A multi-objective optimization-extended techno-economic assessment : exploring the optimal microalgal-based value chain”. Thomassen G, Van Dael M, You F, Van Passel S, Green Chemistry 21, 5945 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1039/C9GC03071A
Abstract: The use of fossil-based products induces a large environmental burden. To lighten this burden, green technologies are required that can replace their fossil-based counterparts. To enable the development of economically viable green technologies, an optimization towards both economic and environmental objectives is required. To perform this multi-objective optimization (MOO), the environmental techno-economic assessment (ETEA) methodology is extended towards a MOO-extended ETEA. The development of this MOO-extended ETEA is the main objective of this manuscript. As an example of a green technology, the concept of microalgae biorefineries is used as a case study to illustrate the MOO-extended ETEA. According to the results, all optimal value chains include open pond cultivation, a membrane for medium recycling and spray drying. The optimal economic value chain uses Nannochloropsis sp. in a one-stage cultivation to produce fish larvae feed, while the optimal environmental design uses Dunaliella salina or Haematococcus pluvialis to produce carotenoids and fertilizer or energy products, by means of anaerobic digestion or gasification. The crucial parameters for both environmental and economic feasibility are the content, price and reference impact of the main end product, the growth parameters and the biomass and carotenoid recovery efficiency alongside the different process steps. By identifying the economic and environmentally optimal algal-based value chain and the crucial drivers, the MOO-extended ETEA provides insights on how algae-based value chains can be developed in the most economic and environmentally-friendly way. For example, the inclusion of a medium recycling step to lower the water and salt consumption is required in all Pareto-optimal scenarios. Another major insight is the requirement of high-value products such as carotenoids or specialty food to obtain and economically and environmentally feasible algal-based value chain. Due to the modular nature of the MOO-extended ETEA, multiple processes can be included or excluded from the superstructure. Although this case study is limited to current microalgae biorefinery technologies, the MOO-extended ETEA can also be used to assess the economic and environmental effect of more innovative technologies. This way, the MOO-extended ETEA provides a methodology to assess the economic and environmental potential of innovative green technologies and shorten their time-to-market.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 9.125
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1039/C9GC03071A
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“How to assess the potential of emerging green technologies? Towards a prospective environmental and techno-economic assessment framework”. Thomassen G, Van Dael M, Van Passel S, You F, Green Chemistry 21, 4868 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1039/C9GC02223F
Abstract: For sustainable production and consumption, emerging green technologies need to be optimized towards a minimal environmental impact and a maximal economic impact. In an early stage of technology development, more flexibility is available to adapt the technology. Therefore, a prospective environmental and techno-economic assessment is required. The prospective assessment differs at the different stages of technology development, as also the data availability and accuracy evolves. This paper reviews the different prospective technological, economic and environmental assessment methods which have been used to assess the potential of new green chemical technologies. Based on the current best practices, an overarching framework is introduced to assess the technological, economic and environmental potential of an emerging green chemical technology at the different stages of technology development.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 9.125
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1039/C9GC02223F
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“An integrated techno-sustainability assessment (TSA) framework for emerging technologies”. Van Schoubroeck S, Thomassen G, Van Passel S, Malina R, Springael J, Lizin S, Venditti RA, Yao Y, Van Dael M, Green Chemistry 23, 1700 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1039/D1GC00036E
Abstract: A better understanding of the drivers of the economic, environmental, and social sustainability of emerging (biobased) technologies and products in early development phases can help decision-makers to identify sustainability hurdles and opportunities. Furthermore, it guides additional research and development efforts and investment decisions, that will, ultimately, lead to more sustainable products and technologies entering a market. To this end, this study developed a novel techno-sustainability assessment (TSA) framework with a demonstration on a biobased chemical application. The integrated TSA compares the potential sustainability performance of different (technology) scenarios and helps to make better-informed decisions by evaluating and trading-off sustainability impacts in one holistic framework. The TSA combines methods for comprehensive indicator selection and integration of technological and country-specific data with environmental, economic, and social data. Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) is used to address data uncertainty and to enable scenario comparison if indicators are expressed in different units. A hierarchical, stochastic outranking approach is followed that compares different weighting schemes and preference structures to check for the robustness of the results. The integrated TSA framework is demonstrated on an application for which the sustainability of a production and harvesting plant of microalgae-based food colorants is assessed. For a set of scenarios that vary with regard to the algae feedstock, production technology, and location, the sustainability performance is quantified and compared, and the underlying reasons for this performance are explored.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 9.125
DOI: 10.1039/D1GC00036E
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Vermeulen S, Cools J, Staes J, Van Passel S (2023) A review of economic assessments of drought risk reduction approaches in agriculture. 118909–118912
Abstract: Due to climate change, the frequency and intensity of droughts are expected to increase. To improve resilience to droughts, proactive drought management is essential. Economic assessments are typically included to decide on the drought risk-reducing investments to make. The choice of both methods and scope of economic assessments influences the outcome, and thus the investment choice. This paper aims to identify how comprehensively economic assessments are applied in practice. Through a systematic literature review, 14 actual economic assessments are identified and their methods are evaluated based on seven criteria for economic assessments as derived from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The results show that in practice, economic assessments rarely address all criteria. Applying a limited number of criteria reduces the scope and narrows the approach, possibly leading to the underestimation of drought risk reduction approaches’ related benefits. Applying the seven criteria in practice will improve the results of economic assessments of drought risk reduction measures, allowing for optimal investment selection. Based on the different criteria, a Framework for Economic Assessments of Drought Risk-Reducing Applications (FEADRRA) is proposed. Applying the criteria of the framework can support decision-makers in drought risk management and in carrying out the most fitting drought interventions.
Keywords: Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Economics; Ecosphere; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 8.7
DOI: 10.1016/J.JENVMAN.2023.118909
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“Urban green infrastructure: A review on valuation toolkits from an urban planning perspective”. Van Oijstaeijen W, Van Passel S, Cools J, Journal Of Environmental Management 267, 110603 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.110603
Abstract: As a response to increasing urbanization and changing weather and climatic patterns, urban green infrastructure (UGI) emerged as a concept to increase resilience within the urban boundaries. Given that implementing these (semi-) natural solutions in practice requires a clear overview of the costs and benefits, valuation becomes ever important. A range of decision-support tools for green infrastructure and ecosystem services exist, developed for various purposes. This paper reviews the potential of 10 shortlisted and existing valuation tools to support investment decisions of urban green infrastructure. In the assessment, the functionality is regarded specifically from the urban planning and decision-making viewpoint. The toolkits were evaluated on 12 different criteria. After analyzing the toolkits on these criteria, the findings are evaluated on the (mis)match with specific requirements in the urban planning and management context. Secondly, recommendations and guidelines are formulated to support the design of simple valuation tools, tailored to support the development of green infrastructure in urban areas. Approaching the valuation toolkits biophysically and (socio-)economically provides an integral overview of the challenges and opportunities of the capacities of each framework. It was found that most tools are not designed for the peculiarities of the urban context. Several elements contribute to the hampering uptake of GI valuation tools. Firstly, the limited effort in the economic case for green infrastructure remains a burden to use toolkits to compare grey and green alternatives. Secondly, tools are currently seldom designed for the peculiarities of cities: urban ecosystem (dis)services, multi-scalability, life-span assessments of co-benefits and the importance of social benefits. Thirdly, toolkits should be the result of co-development between the scientific community and local authorities in order to create toolkits that are tailor made to the specific needs in the urban planning process. It can be concluded that current tools, are not readily applicable to support decision making as such. However, if applied cautiously, they can have an indicative role to pinpoint further targeted and in-depth analyses.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Impact Factor: 8.7
DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.110603
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“Retrospective and prospective material flow analysis of the post-consumer plastic packaging waste management system in Flanders”. Thomassen G, Van Passel S, Alaerts L, Dewulf J, Waste Management 147, 10 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.WASMAN.2022.05.004
Abstract: The post-consumer plastic packaging waste management in Flanders was analyzed by performing a retrospective material flow analysis, covering an extensive period from 1985 to 2019. In addition, a prospective material flow analysis of 32 improvement scenarios was performed, based on expected changes in the waste management system. Mass recovery rates were calculated based on different interpretations of the calculation rules. Moreover, various cascading levels were identified to differentiate between the quality level of the secondary applications. The mass recovery rate including only recycling evolved from a value of 0% in 1985 to 31% in 2019 and could be increased to 36-62% depending on the improvement scenario selected. However, the different interpretations of the calculation rules led to a variation of up to 20 and 41% on this mass recovery rates for the retrospective and prospective analysis, respectively. The introduction of monostream recycling for additional post-consumer plastic packaging flows, such as low-density polyethylene, did not lead to increasing mass recovery rates, if no differentiation for the cascading levels was made. The Belgian recycling target of 65% for 2023 will be challenging if the strictest calculation method needs to be followed or if the improvements in the Flemish postconsumer plastic packaging waste system do not follow the best-case collection scenarios under the given assumptions. To harmonize the calculation and monitoring of these targets, clear calculation rules need to be accompanied with a harmonized monitoring system over the entire waste management system.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 8.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.WASMAN.2022.05.004
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“The effect of plastic packaging recycling policy interventions as a complement to extended producer responsibility schemes : a partial equilibrium model”. Larraín M, Billen P, Van Passel S, Waste Management 153, 355 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.WASMAN.2022.09.012
Abstract: Extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes have effectively increased the plastic waste that is separately collected. However, due to the structure of the recycling industry, EPR cannot increase recycling rates up to the target levels.Additional policy instruments to increase recycling rates such as recycled content targets, green dot fees bonus for recycled content, recycling targets and taxes on non-recycled plastic packaging have been discussed on a political level in the last years. However, very little research has quantitatively studied the effectiveness of these policy interventions.Using a partial equilibrium model, this paper examines the effectiveness of the implementation of the aforementioned policy instruments to increase recycling rates and the impact on different stakeholders of the value chain: plastic producers, consumers, producer responsibility organization and recyclers.Results show that direct interventions (recycled content standards and recycling targets) have the benefit of decoupling the recycling industry from external markets such as the oil market. They can be a good starting point to increase recycling, but in the long term they may be restricting by not presenting incentives to achieve recycling levels beyond the targeted amounts and by limiting technological innovation. On the contrary, eco-nomic interventions such as a green dot fee bonus or a packaging tax create economic incentives for recycling. However, these incentives are diminished by the lower perceived quality of packaging with higher recycled content levels.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Impact Factor: 8.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.WASMAN.2022.09.012
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