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Author Eliaerts, J.; Dardenne, P.; Meert, N.; Van Durme, F.; Samyn, N.; Janssens, K.; De Wael, K.
Title Rapid classification and quantification of cocaine in seized powders with ATR-FTIR and chemometrics Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Drug testing and analysis Abbreviated Journal Drug Test Anal
Volume 9 Issue 10 Pages 1480-1489
Keywords A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Traditionally, fast screening for the presence of cocaine in unknown powders is performed by means of colour tests. The major drawbacks of these tests are subjective colour evaluation depending on the operator (50 shades of blue) and a lack of selectivity. An alternative fast screening technique is Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR) spectrometry. This technique provides spectra that are difficult to interpret without specialized expertise and showing a lack of sensitivity for the detection of cocaine in mixtures. To overcome these limitations, a portable FTIR spectrometer using Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) sampling was combined with a multivariate technique, called Support Vector Machines (SVM). Representative street drug powders (n = 482), seized during the period January 2013 to July 2015, and reference powders (n = 33) were used to build and validate a classification model (n = 515) and a quantification model (n = 378). Both models were compared with the conventional chromatographic techniques. The SVM classification model showed a high sensitivity, specificity and efficiency (99%). The SVM quantification model determined cocaine content with a root mean squared error of prediction (RMSEP) of 6% calculated over a wide working range from 4 to 99 w%. In conclusion, the developed models resulted in a clear output (cocaine detected or cocaine not detected) and a reliable estimation of the cocaine content in a wide variety of mixtures. The ATR-FTIR technique combined with SVM is a straightforward, user-friendly and fast approach for routine classification and quantification of cocaine in seized powders.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000413685200001 Publication Date 2016-12-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1942-7603; 1942-7611 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.469 Times cited 9 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.469
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:139483 Serial 5799
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Author Godoi, R.H.M.; Goncalves, S.J., Jr.; Sayama, C.; Polezer, G.; Reis Neto, J.M.; Alfoldy, B.; Van Grieken, R.; Riedi, C.A.; Yamamoto, C.I.; Godoi, A.F.L.; Bencs, L.
Title Health implications of atmospheric aerosols from asbestos-bearing road pavements traditionally used in Southern Brazil Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Environmental Science and Pollution Research T2 – 1st International Caparica Conference on Pollutant Toxic Ions and, Molecules (PTIM), 2015, Caparica, PORTUGAL Abbreviated Journal
Volume 23 Issue 24 Pages 25180-25190
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Serpentine and amphibole asbestos occur naturally in certain geologic settings worldwide, most commonly in association with ultramafic rocks, along associated faults. Ultramafic rocks have been used in Pin County, Southern Brazil for decades for the purpose of road paving in rural and urban areas, but without the awareness of their adverse environmental and health impact. The aim of this study was the chemical characterization of aerosols re-suspended in two rural roads of Pin, paved with ultramafic rocks and to estimate the pulmonary deposition of asbestos aerosols. Bulk aerosol samples were analyzed by means of X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and X-ray diffraction analysis, in order to characterize elemental composition and crystallinity. Single-particle compositions of aerosols were analyzed by computer-controlled electron-probe microanalysis, indicating the presence of a few percentages of serpentine and amphibole. Given the chemical composition and size distribution of aerosol particles, the deposition efficiency of chrysotile, a sub-group of serpentine, in two principal segments of the human respiratory system was estimated using a lung deposition model. As an important finding, almost half of the inhaled particles were calculated to be deposited in the respiratory system. Asbestos depositions were significant (similar to 25 %) in the lower airways, even though the selected breathing conditions (rest situation, nose breathing) implied the lowest rate of respiratory deposition. Considering the fraction of inhalable suspended chrysotile near local roads, and the long-term exposure of humans to these aerosols, chrysotile may represent a hazard, regarding more frequent development of lung cancer in the population of the exposed region.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000389301700060 Publication Date 2016-09-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0944-1344; 1614-7499 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:139232 Serial 8018
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Author Liao, L.; Heylen, S.; Sree, S.P.; Vallaey, B.; Keulemans, M.; Lenaerts, S.; Roeffaers, M.B.J.; Martens, J.A.
Title Photocatalysis assisted simultaneous carbon oxidation and NOx reduction Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Applied catalysis : B : environmental Abbreviated Journal Appl Catal B-Environ
Volume 202 Issue Pages 381-387
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Photocatalysis assisted oxidation of carbon black was performed using TiO2 photocatalyst under UV illumination in an atmosphere with NO, O-2 and water vapor at 150 degrees C. Carbon is oxidized mainly to CO2 while NO is selectively converted to N-2. Enhanced O-2 and NO concentrations have a positive effect on the carbon oxidation rate. At a concentration of 3000 ppm NO and 13.3% O-2 in the gas phase the carbon oxidation rate reaches 2.3 mu g(carbon)/mg(TiO2) h, at a formal electron/photon quantum efficiency of 0.019. HR SEM images reveal uniform gradual reduction of the carbon particle size irrespective of the distance to TiO2 photocatalyst particles in the presence of NO, O-2 and H2O. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000388052100038 Publication Date 2016-09-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0926-3373 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.446 Times cited 11 Open Access
Notes ; This work was supported by long-term structural funding by the Flemish government (Methusalem). M. Keulemans acknowledges the agency for Innovation by Science and Technology in Flanders (IWT) for financial support (PhD. Grant). M. Roeffaers thanks the ERC for financial support (ERC Starting Grant No. 307523). ; Approved Most recent IF: 9.446
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:139156 Serial 5976
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Author Van Passel, S.; Massetti, E.; Mendelsohn, R.
Title A Ricardian analysis of the impact of climate change on European agriculture Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Environmental & Resource Economics Abbreviated Journal Environ Resour Econ
Volume 67 Issue 4 Pages 725-760
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This research estimates the impact of climate on European agriculture using a continental scale Ricardian analysis. Climate, soil, geography and regional socio-economic variables are matched with farm level data from 41,030 farms across Western Europe. We demonstrate that a median quantile regression outperforms OLS given farm level data. The results suggest that European farms are slightly more sensitive to warming than American farms with impacts from +5 to −32 % by 2100 depending on the climate scenario. Farms in Southern Europe are predicted to be particularly sensitive, suffering losses of −5 to −9 % per degree Celsius.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000408358900005 Publication Date 2016-03-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0924-6460 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.582 Times cited 15 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would kindly want to express their gratitude towards DG AGRI for access to the Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN). Steven Van Passel also thanks FWO for funding his research stay at Yale University. Steven Van Passel is also obliged to the OECD for awarding a fellowship of the co-operative research program `Biological Resource Management for Sustainable Agricultural Systems'. Emanuele Massetti gratefully acknowledges funding from the Marie Curie IOF Cli-EMA “Climate change impacts-Economic modelling and analysis”. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.582
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:139041 Serial 6246
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Author Dadi, D.; Stellmacher, T.; Senbeta, F.; Van Passel, S.; Azadi, H.
Title Environmental and health impacts of effluents from textile industries in Ethiopia : the case of Gelan and Dukem, Oromia Regional State Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Environmental Monitoring And Assessment Abbreviated Journal Environ Monit Assess
Volume 189 Issue 1 Pages 11-30
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000392300300011 Publication Date 2016-12-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0167-6369; 1573-2967 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.687 Times cited 6 Open Access
Notes ; In preparing this work, different organizations and institutions contributed immensely and therefore deserve acknowledgment. I would like to thank WHO for their financial support in collecting field samples, the purchase of chemicals, and various types of equipment required for the laboratory activities. I would also like to thank DAAD and the Post Graduate Program at Addis Ababa University for their financial support during my field stay in order to conduct the household survey. The authors wish to thank Ms. Bethany Gardner from the Department of Linguistics, the State University of New York at Binghamton, for her kind help in improving the English of this text. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.687
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:139039 Serial 6198
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Author Thomassen, G.; Van Dael, M.; Lemmens, B.; Van Passel, S.
Title A review of the sustainability of algal-based biorefineries : towards an integrated assessment framework Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 68 Issue 2 Pages 876-887
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Algal-based bioenergy products have faced multiple economic and environmental problems. To counter these problems, algal-based biorefineries have been proposed as a promising solution. Multiple environmental and economic assessments have analyzed this concept. However, a wide variation in results was reported. This study performs a review to evaluate the methodological reasons behind this variation. Based on this review, four main challenges for a sustainability assessment were identified: 1) the use of a clear framework; 2) the adaptation of the methodology to all stages of technological maturity; 3) the use of harmonized assumptions; 4) the integration of the technological process. A generic methodology, based on the integration of a techno-economic assessment methodology and a streamlined life cycle assessment was proposed. This environmental techno-economic assessment can be performed following an iterative approach during each stage of technology development. In this way, crucial technological parameters can be directly identified and evaluated during the maturation of the technology. The use of this assessment methodology can therefore act as guidance to decrease the time-to-market for innovative and sustainable technologies.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000391899400005 Publication Date 2016-03-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited 23 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:139038 Serial 6245
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Author Moretti, M.; Njakou Djomo, S.; Azadi, H.; May, K.; De Vos, K.; Van Passel, S.; Witters, N.
Title A systematic review of environmental and economic impacts of smart grids Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 68 Issue 2 Pages 888-898
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Smart grids (SGs) have a central role in the development of the global power sector. Cost-benefit analyses and environmental impact assessments are used to support policy on the deployment of SG systems and technologies. However, the conflicting and widely varying estimates of costs, benefits, greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction, and energy savings in literature leave policy makers struggling with how to advise regarding SG deployment. Identifying the causes for the wide variation of individual estimates in the literature is crucial if evaluations are to be used in decision-making. This paper (i) summarizes and compares the methodologies used for economic and environmental evaluation of SGs (ii) identifies the sources of variation in estimates across studies, and (iii) point to gap in research on economic and environmental analyses of SG systems. Seventeen studies (nine articles and eight reports published between 2000 and 2015) addressing the economic costs versus benefits, energy efficiency, and GHG emissions of SGs were systematically searched, located, selected, and reviewed. Their methods and data were subsequently extracted and analysed. The results show that no standardized method currently exists for assessing the economic and environmental impacts of SG systems. The costs varied between 0.03 and 1143 M/yr, while the benefits ranged from 0.04 to 804 M/yr, suggesting that SG systems do not result in cost savings The primary energy savings ranged from 0.03 to 0.95 MJ/kWh, whereas the GHG emission reduction ranged from 10 to 180 gCO2/kWh, depending on the country grid mix and the system boundary of the SG system considered. The findings demonstrate that although SG systems are energy efficient and reduce GHG emissions, investments in SG systems may not yield any benefits. Standardizing some methodologies and assumptions such as discount rates, time horizon and scrutinizing some key input data will result in more consistent estimates of costs and benefits, GHG emission reduction, and energy savings.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000391899400006 Publication Date 2016-03-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited 27 Open Access
Notes ; We would like to thank the editor and the anonymous referees for their helpful suggestions and insightful comments that have significantly improved the paper. This research paper has been implemented within the GREAT (Growing Renewable Energy Applications and Technologies) project funded by the European INTERREG IVB North-Western Europe Programme. Nele Witters was financed by FWO (Research Foundation Flanders). ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:139036 Serial 6260
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Author Jouzi, Z.; Azadi, H.; Taheri, F.; Zarafshani, K.; Gebrehiwot, K.; Van Passel, S.; Lebailly, P.
Title Organic farming and small-scale farmers : main opportunities and challenges Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 132 Issue Pages 144-154
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Producing enough food to meet the needs of a growing population has always been the greatest concern of food policy-makers around the world. Given the increasing attention to organic farming (OF), we conducted this study to investigate the main opportunities and challenges of the food production system of small-scale farmers in developing countries with an emphasis on their livelihoods. The study showed that the most significant advantages of OF are environmental protection and a higher resilience to environmental changes, increasing farmers' income and reducing external input cost, enhancing social capacity and increasing employment opportunities. A s well as enhancing food security primarily by increasing the food purchasing power of local people. However, the main challenges of this food production system include lower yields in comparison to conventional systems, difficulties with soil nutrient management, certification and market barriers, and the educational and research needs of small-holders. The paper concludes that even though OF might present some significant challenges to small-scale farmers, it could/should still be considered as a part of the solution and means of improving their livelihoods.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000390825200014 Publication Date 2016-11-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited 39 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:139034 Serial 6233
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Author Peeters, L.; Schreurs, E.; Van Passel, S.
Title Heterogeneous impact of soil contamination on farmland prices in the Belgian Campine region : evidence from unconditional quantile regressions Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Environmental & Resource Economics Abbreviated Journal Environ Resour Econ
Volume 66 Issue 1 Pages 135-168
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract We estimate a hedonic-pricing model using geo-coded farmland-transaction data from the Campine region, situated in the north-east of Belgium. Unlike previous hedonic studies, we use the method of unconditional quantile regression (Firpo et al., in Econometrica 77(3):953973, 2009). An important advantage of this new method over the traditional conditional quantile regression (Koenker and Bassett, in Econometrica 46(1):3350, 1978) is that it allows for the estimation of potentially heterogeneous effects of cadmium pollution along the entire (unconditional) distribution of farmland prices. Using a threshold specification of the hedonic-pricing model, we find evidence of a U-shaped valuation pattern, where cadmium pollution of the soil has a negative and significant impact on prices only in the middle range of the distribution, insofar as cadmium concentrations are above the regulatory standard of 2 parts per million for agricultural land. Results obtained from a probit model to classify land plots into different price segments further suggest that the heterogeneous impact of soil pollution on price can be directly related to the variety of amenities that farmland provides.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000391511800007 Publication Date 2015-08-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0924-6460 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.582 Times cited 4 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.582
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:139029 Serial 6208
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Author Thomassen, G.; Egiguren Vila, U.; Van Dael, M.; Lemmens, B.; Van Passel, S.
Title A techno-economic assessment of an algal-based biorefinery Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Clean Technologies And Environmental Policy Abbreviated Journal Clean Technol Envir
Volume 18 Issue 6 Pages 1849-1862
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Economic and technological assessments have identified difficulties with the commercialization of bulk products from microalgae, like biofuels. To overcome these problems, a multi-product algal-based biorefinery has been proposed. This paper performs a techno-economic assessment of such a biorefinery. Four production pathways, ranging from a base case with commercial technologies to an improved case with innovative technologies, are analyzed. All region-specific parameters were adapted to Belgian conditions. Three scenarios result in techno-economically viable production plants. The most profitable scenario is the scenario which uses a specialized membrane for medium recycling and an open pond algae cultivation. Although the inclusion of a photobioreactor decreases the culture medium costs, the higher investment costs result in lower economic profits. The carotenoid content and price are identified as critical parameters. Furthermore, the economies of scale assumption for the photobioreactor is critical for the feasibility of this cultivation technology. The techno-economic assessment is an important methodology to guide and evaluate further improvements in research and shorten the time-to-market for innovative technologies in this field.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000384470700017 Publication Date 2016-03-26
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1618-954x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.331 Times cited 24 Open Access
Notes ; We would like to thank Herman Beckers, Metin Bulut, Frans Snijkers, Joris van der Have, Jan Vanderheyden, Leen Bastiaens, and Lies Eykens for the provision of technological and economic data and the useful discussions on the assumptions in the model. We would also like to thank Eva Cordery for proofreading the article and the anonymous reviewers for their valuable feedback and suggestions. Furthermore, we gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Fundacion Novia Salcedo. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.331
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:139027 Serial 6262
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Author Vanschoenwinkel, J.; Mendelsohn, R.; Van Passel, S.
Title Do Western and Eastern Europe have the same agricultural climate response? Taking adaptive capacity into account Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Global Environmental Change-Human And Policy Dimensions Abbreviated Journal Global Environ Chang
Volume 41 Issue Pages 74-87
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Current cross-sectional methodologies measuring climate change impacts assume that regions at the same latitude face a similar climate response and therefore have the same adaptive capacity. This paper proves that assumption to be erroneous in the European Union. It does so by ameliorating the Ricardian methodology by restricting which farmers (and therefore which adaptation options) are allowed in the dataset. In doing so, a comparative Ricardian methodology is suggested that makes it possible to examine, for the first time, how the climate responsiveness of a region changes if adaptive capacity changes. The paper combines climate, soil, geographic, socio-economic, and farm-level data in a linear mixed-effect model and examines whether Eastern and Western Europe have the same climate responses and how these responses change if regional adaptive capacity increases. The paper concludes that both regions currently have a significantly different climate response, but that if Eastern Europe were to implement the same adaptation options as Western Europe, it could avoid a large decrease in land value and even benefit from climate change depending on the climate scenario.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000389732700007 Publication Date 2016-09-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0959-3780; 1872-9495 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.327 Times cited 8 Open Access
Notes ; Steven Van Passel would kindly want to express his gratitude towards DG AGRI for access to the Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN). The authors also thank the reviewers of this journal for their improvements to the final manuscript and they are grateful for the comments and suggestions they received at the conferences where this paper has been presented (IAMO forum 2015, EAAE PhD workshop 2015, Belgian PhD symposium 2015, EAERE conference 2016). Janka Vanschoenwinkel also wants to thank FWO and the Doctoral Schools of Hasselt University for giving a mobility grant to go to the EAAE PhD workshop in Rome. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.327
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:139026 Serial 6185
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Author Meerburg, F.A.; Boon, N.; Van Winckel, T.; Pauwels, K.T.G.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Live Fast, Die Young: Optimizing Retention Times in High-Rate Contact Stabilization for Maximal Recovery of Organics from Wastewater Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Environmental science and technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 50 Issue 17 Pages 9781-9790
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Wastewater is typically treated by the conventional activated sludge process, which suffers from an inefficient overall energy balance. The high-rate contact stabilization (HiCS) has been proposed as a promising primary treatment technology with which to maximize redirection of organics to sludge for subsequent energy recovery. It utilizes a feast famine cycle to select for bioflocculation, intracellular storage, or both. We optimized the HiCS process for organics recovery and characterized different biological pathways of organics removal and recovery. A total of eight HiCS reactors were operated at 15 degrees C at short solids retention times (SRT; 0.24-2.8 days), hydraulic contact times (t(c); 8 and 15 min), and stabilization times (t(s); 15 and 40 min). At an optimal SRT between 0.5 and 1.3 days and t(c) of 15 min and t(s) of 40 min, the HiCS system oxidized only 10% of influent chemical oxygen demand (COD) and recovered up to 55% of incoming organic matter into sludge. Storage played a minor role in the overall COD removal, which was likely dominated by aerobic biomass growth, bioflocculation onto extracellular polymeric substances, and settling. The HiCS process recovers enough organics to potentially produce 28 kWh of electricity per population equivalent per year by anaerobic digestion and electricity generation. This inspires new possibilities for energy-neutral wastewater treatment.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000382805800097 Publication Date 2016-08-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0013-936x; 1520-5851 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:138270 Serial 8176
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Author Courtens, E.N.P.; Spieck, E.; Vilchez-Vargas, R.; Bode, S.; Boeckx, P.; Schouten, S.; Jauregui, R.; Pieper, D.H.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Boon, N.
Title A robust nitrifying community in a bioreactor at 50 degrees C opens up the path for thermophilic nitrogen removal Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication The ISME journal : multidisciplinary journal of microbial ecology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 10 Issue 9 Pages 2293-2303
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The increasing production of nitrogen-containing fertilizers is crucial to meet the global food demand, yet high losses of reactive nitrogen associated with the food production/consumption chain progressively deteriorate the natural environment. Currently, mesophilic nitrogen-removing microbes eliminate nitrogen from wastewaters. Although thermophilic nitrifiers have been separately enriched from natural environments, no bioreactors are described that couple these processes for the treatment of nitrogen in hot wastewaters. Samples from composting facilities were used as inoculum for the batch-wise enrichment of thermophilic nitrifiers (350 days). Subsequently, the enrichments were transferred to a bioreactor to obtain a stable, high-rate nitrifying process (560 days). The community contained up to 17% ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOAs) closely related to 'Candidatus Nitrososphaera gargensis', and 25% nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOBs) related to Nitrospira calida. Incorporation of C-13-derived bicarbonate into the respective characteristic membrane lipids during nitrification supported their activity as autotrophs. Specific activities up to 198 +/- 10 and 894 +/- 81 mg N g(-1) VSS per day for AOAs and NOBs were measured, where NOBs were 33% more sensitive to free ammonia. The NOBs were extremely sensitive to free nitrous acid, whereas the AOAs could only be inhibited by high nitrite concentrations, independent of the free nitrous acid concentration. The observed difference in product/substrate inhibition could facilitate the development of NOB inhibition strategies to achieve more cost-effective processes such as deammonification. This study describes the enrichment of autotrophic thermophilic nitrifiers from a nutrient-rich environment and the successful operation of a thermophilic nitrifying bioreactor for the first time, facilitating opportunities for thermophilic nitrogen removal biotechnology.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000386664600019 Publication Date 2016-02-19
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1751-7362 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:138184 Serial 7397
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Author de Mey, Y.; Wauters, E.; Schmid, D.; Lips, M.; Vancauteren, M.; Van Passel, S.
Title Farm household risk balancing : empirical evidence from Switzerland Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication European Review Of Agricultural Economics Abbreviated Journal Eur Rev Agric Econ
Volume 43 Issue 4 Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract Empirical evidence on household risk balancing behaviour is presented by estimating a fixed effects seemingly unrelated regression model using Swiss Farm Accountancy Data Network data. We find that in response to changes in expected business risks, Swiss farm households not only make strategic farm financial risk decisions (original risk balancing), but also make strategic off-farm decisions (household risk balancing) by altering their share of off-farm income and relative consumption. Small farms appear to make more use of household risk balancing strategies whereas large farms conversely make more use of the original risk balancing strategy.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000386026600005 Publication Date 2015-11-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0165-1587; 1464-3618 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.6 Times cited 15 Open Access
Notes ; This research was funded by a scholarship from the Agency for Innovation by Science and Technology (IWT) in Flanders. The authors are very grateful to Ludwig Lauwers and Frankwin van Winsen for many helpful discussions. They also thank the editor and two anonymous reviewers for their constructive comments and conference/workshop participants from ART, BAAE, EAAE, KU Leuven and WUR for excellent comments on earlier versions of the article. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Agroscope Institute for Sustainability Sciences ISS. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.6
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:138183 Serial 6202
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Author Martins, A.; Coddington, J.; van der Snickt, G.; van Driel, B.; McGlinchey, C.; Dahlberg, D.; Janssens, K.; Dik, J.
Title Jackson Pollock's Number 1A, 1948 : a non-invasive study using macro-x-ray fluorescence mapping (MA-XRF) and multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) analysis Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Heritage science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 4 Issue Pages 33
Keywords A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Jackson Pollock's Number 1A, 1948 painting was investigated using in situ scanning macro-x-ray fluorescence mapping (MA-XRF) to help characterize the artist's materials and his creative process. A multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) approach was used to examine the hyperspectral data and obtain distribution maps and signature spectra for the paints he used. The composition of the paints was elucidated based on the chemical elements identified in the signature spectra and a tentative list of pigments, fillers and other additives is proposed for eleven different paints and for the canvas. The paint distribution maps were used to virtually reconstruct the artist process and document the sequence and manner in which Pollock applied the different paints, using deliberate and specific gestures.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000386395100001 Publication Date 2016-09-07
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2050-7445 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:138172 Serial 8134
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Author Han, M.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Al-Omari, A.; Wett, B.; Bott, C.; Murthy, S.; De Clippeleir, H.
Title Uncoupling the solids retention times of flocs and granules in mainstream deammonification : a screen as effective out-selection tool for nitrite oxidizing bacteria Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Bioresource technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 221 Issue Pages 195-204
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract This study focused on a physical separator in the form of a screen to out-select nitrite oxidizing bacteria (NOB) for mainstream sewage treatment. This separation relied on the principle that the NOB prefer to grow in flocs, while anammox bacteria (AnAOB) reside in granules. Two types of screens (vacuum and vibrating) were tested for separating these fractions. The vibrating screen was preferred due to more moderate normal forces and additional tangential forces, better balancing retention efficiency of AnAOB granules (41% of the AnAOB activity) and washout of NOB (92% activity washout). This operation resulted in increased NOB out-selection (AerAOB/NOB ratio of 2.3) and a total nitrogen removal efficiency of 70% at influent COD/N ratio of 1.4. An effluent total nitrogen concentration <10 mg N/L was achieved using this novel approach combining biological selection with physical separation, opening up the path towards energy positive sewage treatment. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000386241000025 Publication Date 2016-09-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0960-8524 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:138157 Serial 8705
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Author De Vrieze, J.; Smet, D.; Klok, J.; Colsen, J.; Angenent, L.T.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Thermophilic sludge digestion improves energy balance and nutrient recovery potential in full-scale municipal wastewater treatment plants Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Bioresource technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 218 Issue Pages 1237-1245
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The conventional treatment of municipal wastewater by means of activated sludge is typically energy demanding. Here, the potential benefits of: (1) the optimization of mesophilic digestion; and (2) transitioning to thermophilic sludge digestion in three wastewater treatment plants (Tilburg-Noord, Land van Cuijk and Bath) in the Netherlands is evaluated, including a full-scale trial validation in Bath. In Tilburg-Noord, thermophilic sludge digestion covered the energy requirements of the plant (102%), whereas 111% of sludge operational treatment costs could be covered in Bath. Thermophilic sludge digestion also resulted in a strong increase in nutrient release. The potential for nutrient recovery was evaluated via: (1) stripping/absorption of ammonium; (2) autotrophic removal of ammonium via partial nitritation/anammox; and (3) struvite precipitation. This research shows that optimization of sludge digestion may lead to a strong increase in energy recovery, sludge treatment costs reduction, and the potential for advanced nutrient management in full-scale sewage treatment plants. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000384710500155 Publication Date 2016-07-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0960-8524 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:137236 Serial 8666
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Author Coppens, J.; Meers, E.; Boon, N.; Buysse, J.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Follow the N and P road : high-resolution nutrient flow analysis of the Flanders region as precursor for sustainable resource management Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal
Volume 115 Issue Pages 9-21
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Resource-efficient nutrient management is key to secure food production in the context of a growing global population, rising resource scarcity and increasing pressure on the environment. To map the potential towards increasing nutrient use efficiencies and reduce environmental losses, a high-resolution insight of the nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) nutrient streams is pivotal. In this study, a substance flow analysis for N and P is presented for the nutrient intensive region of Flanders (6,211,065 inhabitants) in Belgium for the year 2009. A set of 160 nutrient fluxes was quantified throughout 21 economic and environmental compartments, with a particular focus on 10 waste management processes. A total nutrient load of 20 kg N cap(-1) yr(-1) (ca. 73% to the air and 28% to surface waters) and 0.53 kg P cap(-1) yr(-1) (to surface waters) is emitted to the environment; with crop and livestock production as the main contributors (49% of N and 36% of P). The food supply chain revealed a fertilizer-to-consumer efficiency of 14% for N as well as for P, with important losses embedded in waste streams such as excess manure. Advanced manure and waste processing facilities nevertheless offer the opportunity for enhanced nutrient recycling to increase the nutrient use efficiencies and reduce the dependency of inorganic fertilizers. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000384852500002 Publication Date 2016-08-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:137229 Serial 7977
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Author Hoogmartens, R.; Eyckmans, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Landfill taxes and enhanced waste management : combining valuable practices with respect to future waste streams Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Waste Management Abbreviated Journal Waste Manage
Volume 55 Issue Pages 345-354
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Both landfill taxes and Enhanced Waste Management (EWM) practices can mitigate the scarcity issue of landfill capacity by respectively reducing landfilled waste volumes and valorising future waste streams. However, high landfill taxes might erode incentives for EWM, even though EWM creates value by valorising waste. Concentrating on Flanders (Belgium), the paper applies dynamic optimisation modelling techniques to analyse how landfill taxation and EWM can reinforce each other and how taxation schemes can be adjusted in order to foster sustainable and welfare maximising ways of processing future waste streams. Based on the Flemish simulation results, insights are offered that are generally applicable in international waste and resource management policy. As shown, the optimal Flemish landfill tax that optimises welfare in the no EWM scenario is higher than the one in the EWM scenario (93 against (sic)50/ton). This difference should create incentives for applying EWM and is driven by the positive external effects that are generated by EWM practices. In Flanders, as the current landfill tax is slightly lower than these optimal levels, the choice that can be made is to further increase taxation levels or show complete commitment to EWM. A first generally applicable insight that was found points to the fact that it is not necessarily the case that the higher the landfill tax, the more effective waste management improvements can be realised. Other insights are about providing sufficient incentives for applying EMW practices and formulating appropriate pleas in support of technological development. By these insights, this paper should provide relevant information that can assist in triggering the transition towards a resource efficient, circular economy in Europe. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000381535200036 Publication Date 2016-04-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0956-053x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.03 Times cited 5 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.03
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:137150 Serial 6222
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Author Lizin, S.; Van Passel, S.; Vranken, L.
Title Heterogeneity in the solar-powered consumer electronics market : a discrete choice experiments study Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Solar Energy Materials And Solar Cells Abbreviated Journal Sol Energ Mat Sol C
Volume 156 Issue Pages 140-146
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Solar-powered consumer electronics are a likely starting point for organic photovoltaic (OPV) market development. Therefore, a generic discrete choice experiments study can determine how Flemish consumers value solar-cell characteristics for solar-poweied consumer electronics. Such characteristics include efficiency, lifetime, aesthetics, integratability, and price. We contribute to the literature by investigating preference heterogeneity in a solar-power niche market with an experimental design with a fixed reference alternative. The error components random parameter logit (ECRPL) with interactions provides a better fit than the latent class (LC) model for our choice data. The main effects had the expected signs. Consequently, aesthetics and integratability are OPV's assets. Nevertheless, heterogeneity puts the results that are valid for the average consumer into perspective. Based on our findings, OPV commercialization efforts should target the experienced, impatient user who highly values design and functionality. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000383304100015 Publication Date 2016-06-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0927-0248 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.784 Times cited 2 Open Access
Notes ; Sebastien Lizin thanks the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for funding his postdoctoral mandate with Grant number 12G5415N, without which it would have been impossible to revise this work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.784
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:137107 Serial 6207
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Author Afsharzade, N.; Papzan, A.; Ashjaee, M.; Delangizan, S.; Van Passel, S.; Azadi, H.
Title Renewable energy development in rural areas of Iran Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 65 Issue Pages 743-755
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000383293800053 Publication Date 2016-07-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited 41 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:137105 Serial 6243
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Author Spooren, J.; Kim, E.; Horckmans, L.; Broos, K.; Nielsen, P.; Quaghebeur, M.
Title In-situ chromium and vanadium recovery of landfilled ferrochromium and stainless steel slags Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Chemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal
Volume 303 Issue Pages 359-368
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract A novel heap leaching method was investigated for selective removal of chromium (Cr) and-vanadium (V) from ferrochromium (FeCr) and stainless steel (SS) slags. In particular, alkaline oxidative heap leaching was simulated on lab-scale by batch and column leaching tests. The results show a selective leaching of Cr (11-19%) and V (7.0-7.5%) after 64 days of column leaching, with a very low dissolution (<2.2% (FeCr slag) and <0.15% (SS slag)) of matrix elements (e.g. Al, Fe, Si, Mg, Ca), when NaOCl is applied as oxidation agent and NaOH as alkaline agent. Furthermore, the used leaching liquor is reactive for a longer period of time, indicating that circulation of leaching liquor could be possible. Finally, the experimental results were fed into a first-order model which predicts that Cr will continue to leach from the tested slags for 4-5 years at a chosen infiltration rate of 73,000 l/(y m(2)). (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000383522800036 Publication Date 2016-05-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947; 1873-3212 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:137104 Serial 8074
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Author Van Passel, S.; Nevens, F.; Mathijs, E.; Van Huylenbroeck, G.
Title Measuring farm sustainability and explaining differences in sustainable efficiency Type A1 Journal article
Year 2007 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 62 Issue 1 Pages 149-161
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract A major objective of European agricultural policy is to have a sustainable and efficient farming sector that is applying environmentally-friendly production methods. Policy makers aim to combine a strong economic performance and a sustainable use of natural resources. Therefore, it is important to measure and to assess farm sustainability. For a large dataset of Flemish dairy farms, a valuation method that is based on the concept of opportunity costs is used to calculate and analyze differences among the sample farms with respect to the creation of sustainable value. But more important than measuring the creation of sustainable value is to analyze differences in sustainable efficiency. Therefore, sustainable efficiency measures are calculated and differences in sustainable efficiency are explained. Using panel data, an effect model captures the determinants of sustainable efficiency of the studied farms. The empirical model shows that, in general, larger farms have a higher sustainable efficiency. Also farmer's age and dependency on support payments proved to be determining characteristics for observed differences in sustainable efficiency.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000246021800015 Publication Date 2006-07-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited 101 Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.965; 2007 IF: 1.549
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:136767 Serial 6226
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Author Nevens, F.; Dessein, J.; Meul, M.; Rogge, E.; Verbruggen, I.; Mulier, A.; Van Passel, S.; Lepoutre, J.; Hongenaert, M.
Title 'On tomorrow's grounds' : Flemish agriculture in 2030: a case of participatory translation of sustainability principles into a vision for the future Type A1 Journal article
Year 2008 Publication Journal Of Cleaner Production Abbreviated Journal J Clean Prod
Volume 16 Issue 10 Pages 1062-1070
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract In Flanders (Belgium) there is an obvious lack of clear long-term vision on sustainable development, for society as a whole as well as for the individual sectors of (economic) activity. In this paper we present the first results of a process of vision development for Flemish agriculture, called On tomorrow's grounds. The initiative, taken by Stedula (the Flemish Policy Research Centre for Sustainable Agriculture), shows that discovering core values, stating a concise mission, establishing guiding core principles and working with vivid descriptions of envisaged future systems seem indispensable elements to develop a vision that inspires and mobilizes people and that, eventually, stands a chance of being anchored in the sector's or organisation's culture. The principal method of working of the project was a multi-stakeholder process (MSP) focussed on dialogue. During five extensive stakeholder meetings, representatives of farmers, service industries, food distribution, education, government, research, consumers and NGO's participated in a constructive dialogue on values and mission, principles and two vivid descriptions of envisioned future farms. The concept of the project was welcomed and supported by the Flemish Minister-President and by the Belgian federal state secretary for sustainable development.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000256245800004 Publication Date 2007-08-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0959-6526 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.715 Times cited 13 Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5.715; 2008 IF: 1.362
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:136765 Serial 6232
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Author Meul, M.; Van Passel, S.; Nevens, F.; Dessein, J.; Rogge, E.; Mulier, A.; Van Hauwermeiren, A.
Title MOTIFS : a monitoring tool for integrated farm sustainability Type A1 Journal article
Year 2008 Publication Agronomy For Sustainable Development Abbreviated Journal Agron Sustain Dev
Volume 28 Issue 2 Pages 321-332
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract Indicator-based monitoring tools are frequently applied for sustainability assessments, also in agriculture. However, many indicators focus on a rather restricted number of sustainability aspects such as economy or ecology. Moreover the choice of the indicator is rarely explained. The aim of our study was to develop an indicator-based monitoring tool for integrated farm sustainability – i.e. taking into account economic and ecological and social aspects – based on a supported vision of sustainable agriculture and using a set of relevant indicators. Hereby, specific attention was paid to aspects of communication and user-friendliness. Four methodological steps were considered: (i) translating the major principles of a supported vision of sustainable Flemish agriculture into concrete and relevant themes; (ii) designing indicators to monitor progress towards sustainability for each of those themes; (iii) aggregating the indicators into an integrated farm sustainability monitoring tool and (iv) applying the monitoring tool on a practical farm, as a first attempt at end-use validation. Stakeholder participation and expert consulting played an important part in each of these methodological steps. As a case study, the methodology was applied to Flemish dairy farms. As a result, we developed MOTIFS, a user-friendly and strongly communicative indicator-based monitoring tool that allows the measurement of progress towards integrated sustainable dairy farming systems and fits within a well-founded methodological framework. MOTIFS is based on the equality of the economic, ecological and social sustainability dimensions, and this equality is inherently built into the system. Through the applied methodology, we founded the selected themes and indicators and we avoided using indicators that are not relevant to the problem at hand.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000256235500018 Publication Date 2008-03-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1774-0746 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.101 Times cited 97 Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.101; 2008 IF: 1.649
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:136763 Serial 6229
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Author Van Passel, S.; Van Huylenbroeck, G.; Lauwers, L.; Mathijs, E.
Title Sustainable value assessment of farms using frontier efficiency benchmarks Type A1 Journal article
Year 2009 Publication Journal Of Environmental Management Abbreviated Journal J Environ Manage
Volume 90 Issue 10 Pages 3057-3069
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract Appropriate assessment of firm sustainability facilitates actor-driven processes towards sustainable development. The methodology in this paper builds further on two proven methodologies for the assessment of sustainability performance: it combines the sustainable value approach with frontier efficiency benchmarks. The sustainable value methodology tries to relate firm performance to the use of different resources. This approach assesses contributions to corporate sustainability by comparing firm resource productivity with the resource productivity of a benchmark, and this for all resources considered. The efficiency is calculated by estimating the production frontier indicating the maximum feasible production possibilities. In this research, the sustainable value approach is combined with efficiency analysis methods to benchmark sustainability assessment. In this way, the production theoretical underpinnings of efficiency analysis enrich the sustainable value approach. The methodology is presented using two different functional forms: the CobbDouglas and the translog functional forms. The simplicity of the CobbDouglas functional form as benchmark is very attractive but it lacks flexibility. The translog functional form is more flexible but has the disadvantage that it requires a lot of data to avoid estimation problems. Using frontier methods for deriving firm specific benchmarks has the advantage that the particular situation of each company is taken into account when assessing sustainability. Finally, we showed that the methodology can be used as an integrative sustainability assessment tool for policy measures.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000269022800013 Publication Date 2009-06-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0301-4797 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.01 Times cited 41 Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.01; 2009 IF: 2.367
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:136762 Serial 6259
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Author Van Meensel, J.; Lauwers, L.; Van Huylenbroeck, G.; Van Passel, S.
Title Comparing frontier methods for economic-environmental trade-off analysis Type A1 Journal article
Year 2010 Publication European Journal Of Operational Research Abbreviated Journal Eur J Oper Res
Volume 207 Issue 2 Pages 1027-1040
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract This paper uses a mechanistic frontier approach as a reference to evaluate the ability of conventional parametric (SFA) and non-parametric (DEA) frontier approaches for analyzing economicenvironmental trade-offs. Conventional frontier approaches are environmentally adjusted through incorporating the materials balance principle. The analysis is worked out for the Flemish pig finishing case, which is both representative and didactic. Results show that, on average, SFA and DEA yield adequate economicenvironmental trade-offs. Both methods are good estimators for technical efficiency. Cost allocative and environmental allocative efficiency scores are less robust, due to the well-known methodological advantages and disadvantages of SFA and DEA. For particular firms, SFA, DEA and the mechanistic approach may yield different economicenvironmental trade-offs. One has therefore to be careful when using conventional frontier approaches for firm-specific decision support. The mechanistic approach allows for optimizing performances per average present finisher, which is the production unit in pig finishing. Conventional frontier methods do not allow for this optimization since the number of average present finishers varies along the production functions. Since the mechanistic production function is based on underlying growth, feed uptake and mortality functions, additional firm-specific indicators can also be calculated at each point of the production function.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000281107200045 Publication Date 2010-05-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0377-2217 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.297 Times cited 18 Open Access
Notes ; This research is funded by the Institute for the Promotion of Innovation by Science and Technology in Flanders (IWT Vlaanderen). ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.297; 2010 IF: 2.159
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:136761 Serial 6171
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Author Ang, F.; Van Passel, S.
Title The sustainable value approach : a clarifying and constructive comment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2010 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 69 Issue 12 Pages 2303-2306
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract Recently, the original benchmarking methodology of the Sustainable Value approach became subjected to serious debate. While Kuosmanen and Kuosmanen (2009b) critically question its validity introducing productive efficiency theory, Figge and Hahn (2009) put forward that the implementation of productive efficiency theory severely conflicts with the original financial economics perspective of the Sustainable Value approach. We argue that the debate is very confusing because the original Sustainable Value approach presents two largely incompatible objectives. Nevertheless, we maintain that both ways of benchmarking could provide useful and moreover complementary insights. If one intends to present the overall resource efficiency of the firm from the investor's viewpoint, we recommend the original benchmarking methodology. If one on the other hand aspires to create a prescriptive tool setting up some sort of reallocation scheme, we advocate implementation of the productive efficiency theory. Although the discussion on benchmark application is certainly substantial, we should avoid the debate to become accordingly narrowed. Next to the benchmark concern, we see several other challenges considering the development of the Sustainable Value approach: (1) a more systematic resource selection, (2) the inclusion of the value chain and (3) additional analyses related to policy in order to increase interpretative power.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000283700900001 Publication Date 2010-07-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited 18 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965; 2010 IF: 2.754
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:136760 Serial 6258
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Author De Schepper, E.; Van Passel, S.; Lizin, S.; Vincent, T.; Martin, B.; Gandibleux, X.
Title Economic and environmental multi-objective optimization to evaluate the impact of Belgian policy on solar power and electric vehicles Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Journal of environmental economics and policy Abbreviated Journal
Volume 5 Issue 1 Pages 1-27
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This research uses multi-objective optimisation to determine the optimal mixture of energy and transportation technologies, while optimising economic and environmental impacts. We demonstrate the added value of using multi-objective mixed integer linear programming (MOMILP) considering economies of scale versus using continuous multi-objective linear programming assuming average cost intervals. This paper uses an improved version to solve MOMILPs exactly. To differentiate optimal solutions with and without subsidies, the impact of policy on the Pareto frontier is assessed. We distinguish between minimising economic life cycle costs (complete rationality) and required investments (bounded rationality). The approach is illustrated using a Belgian company with demands for electricity and transport. Electricity technologies are solar photovoltaics and the grid; transportation includes internal combustion engine vehicles, grid powered battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and solar-powered BEVs. The impact of grid powered BEVs to reduce GHG emissions is limited, yet they are less costly than solar panels to decrease emissions. Current policy measures are found to be properly targeting rational investors who consider life cycle costs, while private (potentially bounded rational) investors often focus on required investments only.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2015-03-12
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2160-6544 ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:136756 Serial 6186
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Author Hosseininia, G.; Rafiaani Khachak, P.; Nooripoor, M.; Van Passel, S.; Azadi, H.
Title Understanding communicational behavior among rangelands' stakeholders : application of social network analysis Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Journal Of Environmental Planning And Management Abbreviated Journal J Environ Plann Man
Volume 59 Issue 2 Pages 320-341
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000366383400008 Publication Date 2015-03-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0964-0568 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.56 Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.56
Call Number (down) UA @ admin @ c:irua:136755 Serial 6274
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