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“Techno-economic assessment of different conversion pathways for pyrolysis char from pig manure”. Kuppens T, Van Dael M, Maggen J, Vanreppelen K, Yperman J, Carleer R, Elen H, Van Passel S, 22nd European Biomass Conference and Exhibition : Setting the Course for a Biobased Economy, 23-26 June 2014, Hamburg, Germany : conference proceedings, 901 (2014)
Abstract: The amount of animal manure that can be brought back to agricultural land is limited by legislation. Because pig manure is available in too large quantities in some areas, we investigate the techno-economic feasibility of converting it into valuable products. First, slurry is separated in water, a thick fraction and a fertilizer concentrate poor in phosphate. Then, the thick fraction is dried and pyrolyzed. Our goal is to identify the optimal pyrolysis and activation conditions for the production of biochar or activated carbon. The latter has interesting adsorption characteristics due to the presence of nitrogen. It can also be used as a soil amendment as it improves biomass quantity and quality. On top, it immobilizes toxic elements and stores carbon in the soil. Char thus has many interesting characteristics and can be valued in different ways. The economic feasibility has been explored by a first techno-economic modelling iteration. The critical factors influencing the feasibility are identified by Monte Carlo simulations for further improvement of the process design.
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology
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“Advantages and limitations of exergy indicators to assess sustainability of bioenergy and biobased materials”. Maes D, Van Passel S, Environmental Impact Assessment Review 45, 19 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.EIAR.2013.11.002
Abstract: Innovative bioenergy projects show a growing diversity in biomass pathways, transformation technologies and end-products, leading to complex new processes. Existing energy-based indicators are not designed to include multiple impacts and are too constrained to assess the sustainability of these processes. Alternatively, indicators based on exergy, a measure of “qualitative energy”, could allow a more holistic view. Exergy is increasingly applied in analyses of both technical and biological processes. But sustainability assessments including exergy calculations, are not very common and are not generally applicable to all types of impact. Hence it is important to frame the use of exergy for inclusion in a sustainability assessment. This paper reviews the potentials and the limitations of exergy calculations, and presents solutions for coherent aggregation with other metrics. The resulting approach is illustrated in a case study. Within the context of sustainability assessment of bioenergy, exergy is a suitable metric for the impacts that require an ecocentric interpretation, and it allows aggregation on a physical basis. The use of exergy is limited to a measurement of material and energy exchanges with the sun, biosphere and lithosphere. Exchanges involving services or human choices are to be measured in different metrics. This combination provides a more inclusive and objective sustainability assessment, especially compared to standard energy- or carbon-based indicators. Future applications of this approach in different situations are required to clarify the potential of exergy-based indicators in a sustainability context. (C) 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.094
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1016/J.EIAR.2013.11.002
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“Solar cooking in Senegalese villages : an application of best-worst scaling”. Vanschoenwinkel J, Lizin S, Swinnen G, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Energy Policy 67, 447 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ENPOL.2013.12.038
Abstract: Dissemination programs of nontraditional cookstoves often fail. Nontraditional cookstoves aim to solve problems associated with biomass fuel usage in developing countries. Recent studies do not explain what drives user's cookstove choice. This study therefore builds a holistic framework that centralizes product-specific preferences or needs. The case study identifies product-specific factors that influence rural Senegalese inhabitants to switch to solar cooking, using best worst scaling. Looking at the preferences, the case study classified 126 respondents, in three distinct market segments with different solar cooking expectations. The paper identifies socio-demographic characteristics that explain these differences in the respondents' preferences. Finally, the respondent sample is divided in two groups: solar cooker owners and non-owners. When studied with regard to the same issue, solar cooker owners appear to value benefits of the solar cooker lower than non-owners. This is due to program factors (such as formations, after-sales network) and miscommunication (such as a wrong image of the solar cooker) that highly influenced the respondents' cookstove choice. As a conclusion, solar cookers and solar cooking programs are not always adapted to the needs and requirements of the end-users. Needs-oriented and end-user adopted strategies are necessary in order to successfully implement nontraditional cookstoves programs. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sociology; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.14
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENPOL.2013.12.038
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“Cost-efficient emission abatement of energy and transportation technologies : mitigation costs and policy impacts for Belgium”. De Schepper E, Van Passel S, Lizin S, Achten WMJ, Van Acker K, Clean Technologies And Environmental Policy 16, 1107 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10098-014-0713-Z
Abstract: In the light of global warming, this paper develops a framework to compare energy and transportation technologies in terms of cost-efficient GHG emission reduction. We conduct a simultaneous assessment of economic and environmental performances through life cycle costing and life cycle assessment. To calculate the GHG mitigation cost, we create reference systems within the base scenario. Further, we extend the concept of the mitigation cost, allowing (i) comparision of technologies given a limited investment resource, and (ii) evaluation of the direct impact of policy measures by means of the subsidized mitigation cost. The framework is illustrated with a case of solar photovoltaics (PV), grid powered battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and solar powered BEVs for a Belgian small and medium sized enterprise. The study's conclusions are that the mitigation cost of solar PV is high, even though this is a mature technology. The emerging mass produced BEVs on the other hand are found to have a large potential for cost-efficient GHG mitigation as indicated by their low cost of mitigation. Finally, based on the subsidized mitigation cost, we conclude that the current financial stimuli for all three investigated technologies are excessive when compared to the CO2 market value under the EU Emission Trading Scheme.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.331
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1007/S10098-014-0713-Z
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“Bridging the gap between LCA, LCC and CBA as sustainability assessment tools”. Hoogmartens R, Van Passel S, Van Acker K, Dubois M, Environmental Impact Assessment Review 48, 27 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.EIAR.2014.05.001
Abstract: Increasing interest in sustainability has led to the development of sustainability assessment tools such as Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), Life Cycle Costing (LCC) and Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA). Due to methodological disparity of these three tools, conflicting assessment results generate confusion for many policy and business decisions. In order to interpret and integrate assessment results, the paper provides a framework that clarifies the connections and coherence between the included assessment methodologies. Building on this framework, the paper further focuses on key aspects to adapt any of the methodologies to full sustainability assessments. Aspects dealt with in the review are for example the reported metrics, the scope, data requirements, discounting, product- or project-related and approaches with respect to scarcity and labor requirements. In addition to these key aspects, the review shows that important connections exist: (i) the three tools can cope with social inequality, (ii) processes such as valuation techniques for LCC and CBA are common, (iii) Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is used as input in both LCA and CBA and (iv) LCA can be used in parallel with LCC. Furthermore, the most integrated sustainability approach combines elements of LCA and LCC to achieve the Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA). The key aspects and the connections referred to in the review are illustrated with a case study on the treatment of end-of-life automotive glass. (C) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.094
Times cited: 93
DOI: 10.1016/J.EIAR.2014.05.001
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“Development and techno-economic evaluation of a biorefinery based on biomass (waste) streams : case study in the Netherlands”. Van Dael M, Marquez N, Reumerman P, Pelkmans L, Kuppens T, Van Passel S, Biofuels Bioproducts &, Biorefining-Biofpr 8, 635 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1002/BBB.1460
Abstract: In this paper, the technical and economic advantages of combining conversion technologies into a multi-dimensional plant primarily using regional biomass residues are investigated. The main objective is to show how locally available biomass can be used more efficiently as a source for renewable energy and bio-based products. Therefore, not only is the theoretical perspective considered, but also a reality check for the local situation is taken into account. Although industrial attitude toward biorefineries is positive, the efficient production of a portfolio of bio-based products has not yet been implemented. A biorefinery concept for Moerdijk (the Netherlands) was developed, focusing on grass refining, production of pyrolysis oil, biodiesel production, and bio-LNG production. Grass refining is the most experimental technique of all proposed conversion techniques. In terms of development, pyrolysis oil and bio-LNG production are in the demonstration phase. Anaerobic digestion and biodiesel production are proven techniques. It is shown that this concept allows for synergies with regard to the utilization of residue flows from internal processes. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that by integrating different conversion technologies, an economically feasible concept can be developed in which technologies, currently residing in a demonstration phase, can also be brought to the market. (c) 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.694
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1002/BBB.1460
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“Potential of life cycle assessment to support environmental decision making at commercial dairy farms”. Meul M, Van Middelaar CE, de Boer IJM, Van Passel S, Fremaut D, Haesaert G, Agricultural Systems 131, 105 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.AGSY.2014.08.006
Abstract: In this paper, we evaluate the potential of life cycle assessment (LCA) to support environmental decision making at commercial dairy farms. To achieve this, we follow a four-step method that allows converting environmental assessment results using LCA into case-specific advice for farmers. This is illustrated in a case-study involving 20 specialized Flemish dairy farms. Calculated LCA indicators are normalized into scores between 0 and 100, whereby a score of 100 is assumed optimal, to allow for a mutual comparison of indicators for different environmental impact categories. Next, major farm and management characteristics affecting environmental performance are identified using multiple regression and correlation analyses. Finally, comparing specific farm and management characteristics with those of best performing farms identifies farm-specific optimization strategies. We conclude that this approach complies with most of the identified critical success factors for the successful implementation of LCA as a decision support system for farmers. Key aspects herein are (i) the flexibility and accessibility of the model, (ii) the use of readily available farm data, (iii) farm advisors being intended model users, (iv) the identification of key farm and management characteristics affecting environmental performance and (v) the organization of discussion sessions involving farmers and farm advisors. However, attention should be paid (i) to provide sufficient training and guidance for farm advisors on the use of the applied LCA model and the interpretation of results, (ii) to evaluate the correctness of the used data and (iii) to keep the model up-to-date according to new scientific insights and knowledge concerning LCA methodology. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.571
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1016/J.AGSY.2014.08.006
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“Techno-economic assessment of fast pyrolysis for the valorization of short rotation coppice cultivated for phytoextraction”. Kuppens T, Van Dael M, Vanreppelen K, Thewys T, Yperman J, Carleer R, Schreurs S, Van Passel S, Journal Of Cleaner Production 88, 336 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JCLEPRO.2014.07.023
Abstract: The main barrier in the commercialization of phytoextraction as a sustainable alternative for remediating metal contaminated soils is its long time period, which can be countered by biomass valorization. From an environmental point of view, fast pyrolysis of the biomass is promising because its lower process temperature prevents metal volatilization. The remaining question is whether fast pyrolysis is also preferred from an economic point of view. Therefore, a techno-economic assessment of fast pyrolysis has been performed for a case study in the Campine region in Belgium. For this region, willow trees cultivated in short rotation have the right characteristics to serve as a phytoextracting crop. A techno-economic assessment requires by definition a multidisciplinary approach. The problem statement urges for a focus on the economic profitability from the viewpoint of an investor, including economic risk analysis. Fast pyrolysis seems more profitable than gasification. The profit is dependent on the scale of operation, the policy support (subsidies) and the oil yield. The economic risk can be reduced by increasing the scale of operation by means of complementing feedstocks, and by valorization of the char byproduct by subsequent processing to activated carbon. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 5.715
Times cited: 36
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCLEPRO.2014.07.023
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“Assessment of the sustainability guidelines of EU Renewable Energy Directive : the case of biorefineries”. Maes D, Van Dael M, Vanheusden B, Goovaerts L, Reumerman P, Luzardo NM, Van Passel S, Journal Of Cleaner Production 88, 61 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JCLEPRO.2014.04.051
Abstract: Sustainability guidelines can help to safeguard the sustainable use of biological materials. When these guidelines are legally prescribed, their influence on the economic viability of bioenergy, biofuel and bioliquid projects is increased substantially, through their impact on national subsidy regimes and international trade. One of the key examples is the European directive 2009/28/EC, or the Renewable Energy Directive (RED), and the related COM/2010/11 that integrate guidelines for calculating greenhouse gas impact for various bioenergy pathways. This paper looks further into the sustainability results when influenced by principal decisions that are legally open for debate. Therefore, a concise review is conducted of the legal state-of-the-art on whether a product is waste or not. The review pinpoints uncertainty, leading to four potential legal scenarios. The sustainability of a complex biorefinery is analysed for each scenario. The results show (i) a high sensitivity to the principal decisions on the nature of waste materials in the scenarios, and (ii) to the definition of boundaries between the processes. More detailed rules for the application of the RED guidelines are needed, and should be complemented with methods specifically targeting all relevant sustainability aspects, thereby enhancing the overall understanding of the sustainability of the process. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 5.715
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCLEPRO.2014.04.051
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“Increasing the cost-effectiveness of EU agri-environment policy measures through evaluation of farm and field-level environmental and economic performance”. Pacini GC, Merante P, Lazzerini G, Van Passel S, Agricultural Systems 136, 70 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.AGSY.2015.02.004
Abstract: A lot of attention in the debate on the 2014-2020 programming period of the EU CAP and rural development policy revolves around the policy's contribution to enhancing resource use efficiency, decreasing environmental impact, restoring ecosystems and how to ensure more efficient and effective agrienvironmental measures (AEMs). Nevertheless, studies that simultaneously address multiple measures with multiple environmental objectives and targets are underrepresented in the scientific literature. The objectives of the present article are (i) to present an integrated tool-kit for AEM design resulting from the combination of farm modelling with the Sustainable Value Approach (SVA), and (ii) to evaluate the potential of the tool-kit to support AEM design through an application to estimate cost-effective organic agriculture payments for the dairy sector in Mugello, northern Tuscany. Sustainability assessment of organic and conventional farming systems (OFS and CFS, respectively.) under the 2007-2013 EU CAP support schemes and a no EU support scenario show better OFS performances regarding nitrogen leaching (-52% and -47% under the current CAP and the no EU support scenarios, respectively), soil erosion (-24% and -34%), potential pesticide risks (-100%), biodiversity (+13% and +30%). Income foregone for the production of environmental benefits from organic agriculture under a no EU support scenario is equal to 210 Euro/ha. Sustainable value calculations combined with modelling results indicate soil erosion and nitrogen leaching as the environmental processes to be addressed with specific policy measures to further increase the efficiency of organic farming. A new organic agriculture support scheme designed based on such indications further increases the OFS SV and almost closes the GAP with a benchmark farm of the area, featured with ideal performances in terms of environmental and economic indicators. The payment scheme we designed with the support of the integrated tool-kit shows to be more cost-effective and efficient of current AEMs. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.571
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1016/J.AGSY.2015.02.004
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“Using agro-environmental models to design a sustainable benchmark for the sustainable value method”. Merante P, Van Passel S, Pacini C, Agricultural Systems 136, 1 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.AGSY.2015.02.001
Abstract: Farms contribute heavily to overall sustainability. To date, various frameworks, approaches, methods and indicators have been developed to appraise how much corporations (firms, farms) contribute to sustainability. Among these, the Sustainable Value (SV) method helps to determine by which economic entity resources should be used in order to achieve the highest contributions to sustainability, by comparing company's efficiency of capital use against the efficiency of a benchmark. In this work we argue that the SV benchmark does not include certain crucial environmental concepts, such as the carrying capacity of an ecosystem or the multiple vital functions provided by ecosystem services. Thus, it is not a suitable reference for companies to evaluate their contribution to sustainability. As an alternative benchmark to standard SV applications, we propose a farm whose resource use productivity is correlated to the fulfilment of pre-determined environmental constraints: the Environmentally Sustainable Farm (ESF). To design this farm, we created an agro-environmental farm modelling framework that includes: (i) methods and approaches to assess indicators concerning specific environmental issues; (ii) an integrated ecological-economic model based on linear programming. This farm modelling framework is employed to determine both the environmental performance and the economic returns of two farming systems, conventional (CFS) and organic (OFS), which are compared using the Sustainable Value approach. Despite the fact that the OFS environmentally outperforms the CFS, none of them reaches the sustainable performances achieved by the ESF, both performing a negative Sustainable Value. The environmental constraints forced the ESF towards management choices that, although decreasing the economic performance, increase its environmental sustainability behaviour. Hence, the ESF is a viable benchmark that can be used to evaluate llllfarms' environmental sustainability. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.571
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1016/J.AGSY.2015.02.001
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“Economic benefits of combining clean energy technologies : the case of solar photovoltaics and battery electric vehicles”. De Schepper E, Van Passel S, Lizin S, International Journal Of Energy Research 39, 1109 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1002/ER.3315
Abstract: The combined use of clean technologies can lead amongst other benefits to reduced environmental impacts, improved system efficiencies, better management of land scarcity, and diminishment of the effect of power variability of intermittent clean energy sources. Nonetheless, private investors facing budgetary constraints will only opt to invest in the combination of technologies if the latter is more profitable than the investment in a single technology. The aim of the paper is to provide a systematic model for decision makers that allows them to evaluate the profitability of any random combination of technologies under budgetary constraints, and to compare this profitability with that of the individual projects in isolation. This research goes beyond the state of art in the field of financial management and more specifically in the field of the rationing of capital amongst interdependent projects, by developing a method to calculate the payoff of interdependent projects undertaken together. Moreover, this paper develops a computational model from the investor's point of view, of which the purpose is threefold: First, the model allows to directly compare the economic payoff of individual complementary technologies with the economic payoff of their integrated combination, under budgetary constraints. Second, the model calculates economic synergies labeled benefits of combined technologies' (BOCT) when combining complementary technologies. Third, the model explains the rationalization behind the presence of BOCT. The model exemplifies an ex ante cost benefit analysis developed for business and non-governmental use. A four step methodology is proposed and illustrated by means of a case study of PV solar power and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) for a small Belgian enterprise. Results show that at low electricity prices (<Euro0.112/kWh) it is most profitable to invest in BEVs. When the price of electricity rises (>Euro0.134/kWh), investment in exclusively PV becomes most attractive. In all other cases, it is more profitable to invest in the combination of both technologies. Copyright (c) 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.598
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1002/ER.3315
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“Social risk screening using a socio-political ambiguity approach : the case of organic agriculture in Iran”. Mahmoudi H, Renn O, Hoffmann V, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Journal Of Risk Research 18, 747 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1080/13669877.2014.910696
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sociology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.34
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1080/13669877.2014.910696
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“Valorization of thermal treatment residues in enhanced landfill mining : environmental and economic evaluation”. Danthurebandara M, Van Passel S, Machiels L, Van Acker K, Journal Of Cleaner Production 99, 275 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JCLEPRO.2015.03.021
Abstract: Enhanced Landfill Mining is an innovative concept which allows the recovery of land, re-introduction of materials to the material cycles and recovery of energy from a considerably large stock of resources held in landfills. Plasma gasification is a viable candidate for combined energy and material valorization in the framework of Enhanced landfill Mining. Besides energy production, plasma gasification also delivers an environmentally stable vitrified residue called plasmastone, which can be converted into building materials. This paper presents an environmental and economic evaluation of the valorization of thermal treatment residues (plasmastone) in the context of Enhanced Landfill Mining. The most common valorization route, that is, the treatment of plasmastone via production of aggregates, is compared with two other possible, higher added value applications, which are inorganic polymer production and blended cement production. The evaluation is based on life cycle assessment and life cycle costing. The study suggests that the environmental and economic performances of the valorization routes depend mainly on the quality and quantity of the final products produced from a certain amount of plasmastone. The materials with the greatest contribution to potential global warming and to the net present value of the valorization scenarios are the process input materials of sodium silicate, sodium hydroxide and cement. The study concludes that the plasmastone valorization via inorganic polymer production yields higher environmental benefits, while the blended cement production provides higher economic profits. Plasmastone valorization via aggregates production does not yield economic or environmental benefits. Given the trade-off between environmental and economic performances, we conclude that the decisions regarding the selection of appropriate valorization routes should be made cautiously to obtain optimal environmental benefits and economic profits. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 5.715
Times cited: 17
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCLEPRO.2015.03.021
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“Reforming land-tenure systems in South Africa : routes to socio-economic and agricultural sustainability”. Hoeks C, Azadi H, Khachak PR, Troyo-Dieguez E, Van Passel S, Witlox F, Development policy review 32, 647 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1111/DPR.12083
Abstract: Given the historical development of land tenure in South Africa, the aim of this article is to examine the best routes to alleviate poverty and retain sustainable agriculture in the country. First, a theoretical framework is presented that relates land tenure to sustainability, and three historical periods (pre-colonial, colonial, and apartheid) are then considered to explain the changes in land tenure and their consequences. The progress and main limitations of post-apartheid land reform to approach agricultural sustainability and alleviate poverty are discussed. Based on the analysis, different possibilities for future land reform are elaborated, followed by some recommendations for future land-reform policies in South Africa.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Law
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1111/DPR.12083
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“The option to abandon : stimulating innovative groundwater remediation technologies characterized by technological uncertainty”. Compernolle T, Van Passel S, Huisman K, Kort P, Science Of The Total Environment 496, 63 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2014.07.019
Abstract: Many studies on technology adoption demonstrate that uncertainty leads to a postponement of investments by integrating a wait option in the economic analysis. The aim of this study however is to demonstrate how the investment in new technologies can be stimulated by integrating an option to abandon. Furthermore, this real option analysis not only considers the ex ante decision analysis of the investment in a new technology under uncertainty, but also allows for an ex post evaluation of the investment. Based on a case study regarding the adoption of an innovative groundwater remediation strategy, it is demonstrated that when the option to abandon the innovative technology is taken into account, the decision maker decides to invest in this technology, while at the same time it determines an optimal timing to abandon the technology if its operation proves to be inefficient. To reduce uncertainty about the effectiveness of groundwater remediation technologies, samples are taken. Our analysis shows that when the initial belief in an effective innovative technology is low, it is important that these samples provide correct information in order to justify the adoption of the innovative technology. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics
Impact Factor: 4.9
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2014.07.019
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“Cost-effectiveness analysis to assess commercial TiO2 photocatalysts for acetaldehyde degradation in air”. Verbruggen SW, Tytgat T, Van Passel S, Martens JA, Lenaerts S, Chemicke zvesti 68, 1273 (2014). http://doi.org/10.2478/S11696-014-0557-3
Abstract: In the commercialisation of photocatalytic air purifiers, the performance as well as the cost of the catalytic material plays an important role. Where most comparative studies only regard the photocatalytic activity as a decisive parameter, in this study both activity and cost are taken into account. Using a cost-effectiveness analysis, six different commercially available TiO2-based catalysts are evaluated in terms of their activities in photocatalytic degradation of acetaldehyde as a model reaction for indoor air purification.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 1.258
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.2478/S11696-014-0557-3
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“Cognitive mapping : a method to elucidate and present farmers' risk perception”. van Winsen F, de Mey Y, Lauwers L, Van Passel S, Vancauteren M, Wauters E, Agricultural Systems 122, 42 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.AGSY.2013.08.003
Abstract: Assumptions on the perceptions of risks, made in agricultural economics literature, are recognized to be over-simplistic. For example most studies assume that risks are independent and static, while in reality most risks are interlinked and dynamic. We propose an alternative method to identify and present risk perception, closer to the actual comprehension of risk by farmers. Grounded theory is used to investigate the perceptions of risk by farmers while avoiding prior assumptions. Main findings are: (i) farmers have difficulty to rank or score probability and impact of risks in a (semi)quantitative manner; (ii) farmers attach different meanings to risk, when the focus shifts between, uncertain event, probability or value at stake and; (iii) farmers perceive risks as being interrelated. Based on these findings, we propose that farmers' risk perception can be best understood as a network of interrelated notions of uncertain events, their effects and uncertain outcomes. Furthermore, cognitive mapping is suggested to elucidate and present these networks. We test cognitive mapping, exploring dairy farmers' risk perception, and demonstrate the appropriateness of this methodology for capturing the complexity and context of perceived risk. Advantages are: (i) the qualitative approach, (ii) the focus on interrelations and context, (iii) the applicability at farm level, (iv) the farmer-driven rather than researcher-driven perspective, and (v) the elucidation of the polyvalent use of the risk concept. Cognitive maps can be used as a communication tool, a risk management tool, and a tool to stimulate bi-directional learning amongst farmers, policy makers, researchers and extension agents. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article
Impact Factor: 2.571
Times cited: 27
DOI: 10.1016/J.AGSY.2013.08.003
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“Reducing the cost of ballast tank corrosion : an economic modeling approach”. De Baere K, Verstraelen H, Rigo P, Van Passel S, Lenaerts S, Potters G, Marine structures 32, 136 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MARSTRUC.2012.10.009
Abstract: One of the most relevant problems in ship construction and maintenance nowadays concerns the corrosion in the double hull space ballast tanks of modern merchant vessels. On the one hand, there is a general consensus that the economic life span of such a vessel depends primarily upon the corrosion state of its ballast tanks, while on the other hand, the position of these tanks, squeezed between the outer hull and the loading tanks, makes routine inspection and maintenance almost impossible. Today, ship's ballast tanks are usually constructed in grade A steel and protected with a standard epoxy coating, backed up with sacrificial zinc anodes. Such a construction has been applied without significant alterations for many years. However, the objective of this economic study is to compare this construction method with some feasible alternatives. The considered alternatives are: (1) an increase of the scantlings, eliminating the necessity to replace corroded steel but diminishing the cargo carrying capacity of the ship, (2) application of the novel and more durable TSCF25 coating (3), the use of corrosion resistant steel in ship construction or (4) a standard PSPC15 coating combined with lifetime lasting aluminum sacrificial anodes. After running each alternative through a cost model including an extensive sensitivity analysis, it is concluded that the durable coating and the use of lifetime lasting aluminum anodes are bound to improve the actual basic tank concept. Corrosion resistant steel becomes attractive depending upon the evolution of the international steel market.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 2.052
Times cited: 9
DOI: 10.1016/J.MARSTRUC.2012.10.009
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“Study on alternative approaches to corrosion protection of ballast tanks using an economic model”. De Baere K, Verstraelen H, Rigo P, Van Passel S, Lenaerts S, Potters G, Marine structures 32, 1 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MARSTRUC.2013.02.003
Abstract: One of the most relevant problems in ship construction and maintenance nowadays is corrosion in ballast tanks of modern merchant vessels. On the one hand, there is a general consensus that the economic lifespan of such a vessel depends, to a large degree, upon the corrosion state of its ballast tanks, while on the other hand these ballast tanks, located between the outer hull and the cargo tanks, makes routine inspection and maintenance a difficult task. Today, ship's ballast tanks are usually constructed in steel and protected with an epoxy coating backed up by sacrificial zinc anodes. Such a construction has been applied without significant alterations for many years. The objective of this economic study is to compare this construction method with some potential alternatives. The considered alternatives are: (1) an increase in structural scantlings, eliminating the necessity to replace corroded at a cost of real cargo carrying capacity of the ship, (2) application of the novel and more durable TSCF25 coating (3), the use of corrosion resistant steel in ship construction and (4) a standard PSPC15 coating combined with lifetime lasting aluminum sacrificial anodes. A cost model was used to evaluate these alternative options together with sensitivity analysis. It is concluded that the durable coating and the use of lifetime lasting aluminum anodes are bound to improve the actual basic tank concept. Corrosion resistant steel becomes attractive when the steel price becomes competitive.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 2.052
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1016/J.MARSTRUC.2013.02.003
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“Investigating market power in the Belgian pork production chain”. Maes D, Vancauteren M, Van Passel S, Review of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Studies 100, 93 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1007/s41130-019-00096-6
Abstract: Belgian pork production has faced stagnating prices for decades. It remains unclear whether excessive market power from slaughterhouses or meat retailers has played a role in this trend. While market power studies can reveal some of the market dynamics in this setting, this type of research has not yet been applied to the Belgian pork market. The present paper investigates oligopolies and oligopsonies in the pork production sector. We build a new model that focuses on market power dynamics in the market for live pigs and distinguishes horizontal and vertical market power parameters, both for pig farmers and for slaughterhouses. The results follow from an empirical application using unique slaughterhouse data for 2001–2015. The results indicate that the farmers benefit from a significant power advantage in the live pig market, when very modest price demands are taken as a reference. The final market price of live pigs approaches the price requested by the farmers. On the other hand, the measured vertical market power also suggests that a pig farmer does not receive the (modest) full-wage-based salary. The market power of the slaughterhouses is also limited. Market power as a result of collusion—that is, horizontal market power—is present, but is not strong. However, there are significant differences between the slaughterhouses in terms of mark-up on the input prices. These differences reflect differences in company strategy, and this diversity further reduces the possibility to create sector-wide collusive behaviour.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
DOI: 10.1007/s41130-019-00096-6
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“How an incineration tax changes waste management practices among firms”. De Weerdt L, De Jaeger S, Compernolle T, Van Passel S, Resources Conservation And Recycling 180, 106172 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.resconrec.2022.106172
Abstract: Sustainable management of industrial plastic waste is crucial in the transition to a circular economy. Today, most industrial plastic waste is incinerated, whereas it could be recycled. As a consequence, governments increasingly make use of incineration taxes to improve current waste management practices. This paper presents an econometric panel analysis that studies the effects of an incineration tax on industrial plastic waste in Flanders (Belgium). Not only is this study the first econometric analysis on industrial plastic waste management in which firm heterogeneity is explicitly taken into account by including firm-specific characteristics, but this study also provides policymakers with insights into the effectiveness of an incineration tax to change current waste management practices. Empirical estimates imply that heterogeneous firms generate industrial plastic waste in different ways and that heterogeneous firms reduce their waste generation in different ways after the incineration tax rate increases. The estimates also show that the unique decrease of the incineration tax in 2007, did not change waste management practices. These estimates show that firms do not disinvest or indicate that loss aversion theory, i.e. a preference for avoiding losses over acquiring equivalent gains, might apply to firms that are faced with environmental taxation in a waste management context.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Impact Factor: 13.2
DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2022.106172
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