Van Oijstaeijen W, Van Passel S, Back P, Cools J (2022) The politics of green infrastructure : a discrete choice experiment with Flemish local decision-makers. 107493–18
Abstract: Being confronted with increasing and expanding urbanisation and the loss of natural green spaces, our living environment is threatened more and more by the effects of global climate change. Green infrastructure is often thought of as the solution to increase climate resilience and reinforce the quality of the lived environment simultaneously. While the benefits, or ecosystem services, that are generated through green infrastructure have been studied intensively, forces that influence green infrastructure decision-making have been far less subjected to thorough research. In this study a discrete choice experiment was conducted with local decision makers in Flemish municipalities to reveal crucial factors in the decision process applied to green infrastructure projects. Flanders is one of the most densely built regions in Europe, stressing the urgency to understand local spatial decision factors to guarantee green space. 568 decision makers active in the local administration of 235 Flemish municipalities participated in the experiment, set in a hypothetical neighbourhood park. Every choice alternative exists of five attributes: investment cost, maintenance cost, deferred investment, recreational value, and climate impact. We find that barriers hampering Flemish munipalities' GI implementation, differ over size of the municipality: smallers municipalities are more affected by knowledge gaps, while larger municipalities are experiencing prioritization issues. Results from hierarchical Bayes choice models indicate that municipal decisions on green infrastructure are highly – almost solely -cost-driven, rarely consider the full range of benefits, and centre around short-term and immediate arguments. Moreover, interaction models reveal that a municipalities' financial result is a key determinant of its willingness to invest in public greening and consider long term benefits, suggesting that GI is a luxury good. The results expose some of the heuristics in GI decision making and can be used to inform higher authorities on ways to overcome barriers towards informed decision-making and to facilitate GI investment.
Keywords: Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 7
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2022.107493
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“The environmental impacts of the lignin-first biorefineries : a consequential life cycle assessment approach”. Tschulkow M, Pizzol M, Compernolle T, Van den Bosch S, Sels B, Van Passel S, Resources, conservation and recycling 204, 107466 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2024.107466
Abstract: The emerging reductive catalytic fractionation biorefinery which is currently under development aims to convert woody biomass efficiently into high-value products. Despite its potential, the environmental consequences of its implementation are not well known. Therefore, a forward-looking consequential life cycle assessment examines greenhouse gas emissions associated with its products (pulp, phenolic monomers, and oligomers) compared to alternative market options. Findings indicate that current greenhouse gas emissions exceed those of the existing alternatives, with by-products and the gaseous waste stream as major contributors. Process adaption to (i) produce higher-valued products (bleached pulps, phenols, and propylene) and (ii) incinerate gaseous waste stream for energy are proposed, potentially reducing emissions by up to 50 %, outperforming alternative options. Compared to land-based transportation, waterways can increase feedstock availability by up to 1000 km without an increase in emissions. In conclusion, the consequential approach provides valuable insights for enhancing and optimizing the environmental performance of the process.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 13.2
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2024.107466
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“Why does France not meet its pesticide reduction targets? Farmers' socio-economic trade-offs when adopting agro-ecological practices”. Bjørnåvold A, David M, Bohan DA, Gibert C, Rousselle J-M, Van Passel S, Ecological Economics 198, 107440 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2022.107440
Abstract: Despite substantial policy efforts made by the French government to reduce dependence on pesticides, farming practices are only changing slowly. This paper analyses the socio-economic trade-offs that 110 farmers are currently facing in the transition to agro-ecological practices. A mixed-method approach – a quantitative discrete choice experiment (DCE) and qualitative interviews – was set up to understand these farmers' motivations and perspectives, and how policy can improve to accompany them on the road to low chemical input farming. Results of the DCE indicate that the majority of the farmers in our sample are keen to change practices but are at a loss as to how this can be done, as a number of preferences for this transition came out as inconclusive. Qualitative interviews with a representative sample of the farmers that took part in the DCE complemented this result by illustrating a deep uncertainty for the future and a disconnect felt between authorities and themselves as a group. We argue that this uncertainty contributed to a lack of clear-cut solutions established through the DCE. The indepth discussions with farmers illustrated the wish for concrete and local policy measures based on farmers' networks and peer support.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 7
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2022.107440
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“Accounting for externalities in cross-sectional economic models of climate change impacts”. Moretti M, Vanschoenwinkel J, Van Passel S, Ecological Economics 185, 107058 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2021.107058
Abstract: Environmental effects and natural resources depletion associated with agriculture production affect the agriculture response to climate change. Traditional cross-sectional climate response models ignore this requirement. This research estimates the impact of climate on European agriculture using a continental scale Ricardian analysis. We correct farm income by accounting for resources (energy, fertilisers, pesticides, and water) use intensity and calculate the sustainable value for a sample of 9497 specialized field crop farms. Compared with the traditional Ricardian method, the marginal effects of temperature remain positive (but less positive) in Northern countries, while it leads to less damages in Southern countries when net revenue and farms? sustainable values are used as dependent variables. Accounting for the environmental effects and depletion of natural capital improves the ability of the Ricardian method to estimate agriculture climate response functions in the long run.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.965
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2021.107058
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“Environmental sustainability perception toward obvious recovered waste content in paper-based packaging : an online and in-person survey best-worst scaling experiment”. Van Schoubroeck S, Chacon L, Reynolds AM, Lavoine N, Hakovirta M, Gonzalez R, Van Passel S, Venditti RA, Resources, conservation and recycling 188, 106682 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2022.106682
Abstract: This study explores consumers' visual sustainability impressions of paper-based packaging that has incorporated obvious waste content. Two research questions were addressed concerning (i) the environmental sustainability perception of noticeable waste content in packaging and (ii) the impact of the presentation format (i.e., online versus in-person surveys) when studying these perceptions. Best-worst scaling experiments were conducted, which made respondents choose the 'most' and 'least' environmentally friendly package. Packages were designed using paperboard substrates blending either brown linerboard or white hardwood pulp with different recovered waste materials. The results showed that consumers perceive obvious waste-containing packaging as more environmentally friendly than classical packaging (with no visual waste). Samples with a brown base and agricultural waste were perceived as more sustainable compared to white packaging and the use of paper waste. In addition, the presentation format changed respondents' perception, and should therefore be carefully considered when designing surveys.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 13.2
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2022.106682
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“Drop-in biofuels production from microalgae to hydrocarbons : microalgal cultivation and harvesting, conversion pathways, economics and prospects for aviation”. Martinez-Villarreal S, Breitenstein A, Nimmegeers P, Perez Saura P, Hai B, Asomaning J, Eslami AA, Billen P, Van Passel S, Bressler DC, Debecker DP, Remacle C, Richel A, Biomass &, Bioenergy 165, 106555 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.BIOMBIOE.2022.106555
Abstract: In the last few years, governments all around the world have agreed upon migrating towards carbon-neutral economies as a strategy for restraining the effects of climate change. A major obstacle limiting this achievement is greenhouse gases emissions, for which the aviation sector is a key contributor because of its dependence on fossil fuels. As an alternative, biofuels with similar characteristics to current fossil-fuels and fully compatible with the existing petroleum infrastructure (i.e., drop-in biofuels) are being developed. In this regard, microalgae are a promising feedstock thanks to, among other aspects, their potential for lipid accumulation. This review outlines the development status, opportunities, and challenges of different technologies that are capable of or applicable to transform microalgae into aviation fuels. To this effect, a baseline of the existing jet fuels and the requirements for potential aviation biofuels is initially presented. Then, microalgae production and valorization techniques are discussed with an emphasis on the thermochemical pathways. Finally, an assessment of the present techno-economic feasibility of microalgae-derived aviation fuels is discussed, along with the authors’ point of view on the suitability of these techniques. Further developments are needed to reduce the costs of cultivation and harvesting of microalgae, and a biorefinery approach might improve the economics of the overall process. In addition, while each of the conversion routes described has its advantages and drawbacks, they converge upon the need of optimizing the deoxygenation techniques and the proportion of the suitable type of hydrocarbons that match fuel requirements.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Impact Factor: 6
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOMBIOE.2022.106555
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“Drought risk assessment: Towards drought early warning system and sustainable environment in western Iran”. Sharafi L, Zarafshani K, Keshavarz M, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Ecological Indicators 114, 106276 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2020.106276
Abstract: Prolonged drought is considered as a creeping natural hazard, which has created a financial burden and unsustainable environment in Iran. Moreover, the effect of drought phenomenon in rural areas is more extensive, causing significant challenges to the rural economy in general and agricultural production in particular. A common strategy to manage drought is based on crisis management (ex-ante). However, for effective drought management, risk management seems to be more in line with drought early warning systems. This quantitative study used risk assessment, which is the function of two elements such as hazard (SPI and SDI indices) and vulnerability (exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity). This study aims to build the foundations for drought early warning systems in limited resource areas such as Kermanshah Township in the northwestern part of Iran. The population of this study comprised of wheat farmers in which 293 farmers were selected using multistage cluster sampling method. In the next step, the drought risk map for Kermanshah Township was developed, which revealed that the majority of villages are at intense environmental risk. The result of this study has implications for drought management practitioners. For example, the results can aid policymakers in the design of an early warning system in order to reduce risk and thus empower farmers toward resilient farming.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Drought; Early warning system; Risk management; Vulnerability; Environmental risk; Resilient farming; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolind.2020.106276
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“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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“Pathways how irrigation water affects crop revenue of smallholder farmers in northwest Ethiopia: A mixed approach”. Zewdie MC, Van Passel S, Moretti M, Annys S, Tenessa DB, Ayele ZA, Tsegaye EA, Cools J, Minale AS, Nyssen J, Agricultural Water Management 233, 106101 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.agwat.2020.106101
Abstract: The relationship between irrigation water availability and crop revenue is multifaceted. However, most of the previous studies focused only on the direct effect of irrigation water on crop revenue or considered that the indirect effect passes only through the farmers’ improved farm inputs usage. Nevertheless, unlike previous studies, this study argues that a one-sided argument that irrigation water directly causes high crop revenue or indirectly affects crop revenue only via the farmers’ improved farm inputs usage is incomplete, as irrigation water not only directly contributes to crop revenue but also indirectly conduces to crop revenue via both the type of crops produced and the farmers’ improved farm inputs usage. Considering the previous studies’ limitations, this study investigates pathways how small-scale irrigation water affects crop revenue and identifies challenges of small-scale irrigation farming in Fogera district, Ethiopia. Results endorsed that irrigation water has both direct and indirect effects on crop revenue. The indirect effect is 67 percent of the total effect and it is mediated by both the type of crops produced and farmers’ improved farm inputs usage. The result also indicated that irrigation user farmers have a higher income, more livestock assets and resources and better food, housing, and cloths than the non-users. Moreover, challenges related to agricultural output and input market were identified as the most severe problem followed by crop disease. The findings of our study suggest that to utilize the benefits of irrigation water properly, it is crucial to encourage farmers to use more improved farm inputs and to shift from staple to cash crop production. Moreover, farmers are frequently exposed to cheating by illegal brokers in the output market, therefore it is also important to increase farmers’ accessibility to output and input markets, the quality of improved farm inputs, and the bargaining power of farmers with market information.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 6.7
DOI: 10.1016/j.agwat.2020.106101
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“Prospective material and substance flow analysis of the end-of-life phase of crystalline silicon-based PV modules”. Thomassen G, Dewulf J, Van Passel S, Resources Conservation And Recycling 176, 105917 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2021.105917
Abstract: The approaching end-of life phase of early installed PV modules gave rise to a variety of potential end-of-life strategies, ranging from basic generic waste management strategies to advanced case-specific recycling options. However, no comprehensive assessment on the full range of technological possibilities is available and only limited attention was given to the material recovery rates of these different technologies in light of circular economy. In addition, current material recovery rates are indifferent towards the material value and the value of their secondary applications. Based on an extensive literature review, ten end-of-life scenarios with potential learning effects are identified and their material flows are quantified using a combined material and substance flow analysis. Subsequently, material recovery rates from a mass, economic value and embodied energy perspective are calculated, incorporating the differences in secondary applications. The differences in the mass-based recovery rates of the seven end-of-life scenarios that did not have landfill or municipal waste incineration as the main destination were minimal, as 73-79% of the mass was recovered for the best-case learning scenario. For the economic value recovery rate (9-66%) and the embodied energy recovery rate (18-45%), more profound differences were found. The collection rate was identified as most crucial parameter for all end-of-life scenarios, learning scenarios and recycling indicators. The mass-based recovery rate might favor end-of-life scenarios that lead to dissipation of valuable materials in non-functional secondary applications. Additional targets are required to avoid cascading of valuable materials and to avoid the economic cost and environmental burden of virgin materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 13.2
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2021.105917
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“Techno-economic assessment of mechanical recycling of challenging post-consumer plastic packaging waste”. Larraín M, Van Passel S, Thomassen G, Van Gorp B, Nhu TT, Huysveld S, Van Geem KM, De Meester S, Billen P, Resources Conservation And Recycling 170, 105607 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2021.105607
Abstract: Increasing plastic recycling rates is crucial to tackle plastic pollution and reduce consumption of fossil resources. Recycling routes for post-consumer plastic fractions that are technologically and economically feasible remain a challenge. Profitable value chains for recycling mixed film and tray-like plastics have hardly been implemented today, in sharp contrast to recycling of relatively pure fractions such as polyethylene terephthalate and high-density polyethylene bottles. This study examines the economic feasibility of implementing mechanical recycling for plastic waste such as polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene films and mixed polyolefins. In most European countries these plastic fractions are usually incinerated or landfilled whilst in fact technologies exist to mechanically recycle them into regranulates or regrinds. Results show that the economic incentives for the recycling of plastic packaging depend predominantly on the product price and product yield. At current price levels, the most profitable plastic fraction to be recycled is PS rigids, with an internal rate of return of 14%, whereas the least profitable feed is a mixed polyolefin fraction with a negative internal rate of return in a scenario with steadily rising oil prices. Moreover, these values would be substantially reduced if oil prices, and therefore plastic product prices decrease. Considering a discount rate of 15% for a 15-year period, mechanical recycling is not profitable if no policy changes would be imposed by governments. Clearly low oil prices may jeopardize the mechanical recycling industry, inducing the need for policies that would increase the demand of recycled products such as imposing minimal recycled content targets.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Impact Factor: 3.313
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2021.105607
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“The effect of waste incineration taxation on industrial plastic waste generation: A panel analysis”. De Weerdt L, Sasao T, Compernolle T, Van Passel S, De Jaeger S, Resources Conservation And Recycling 157, 104717 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.resconrec.2020.104717
Abstract: Waste treatment taxation is a popular policy instrument in many European countries and regions. Its impact on household waste has extensively been researched. However, only little research exists which looks into the impact of waste treatment taxation on industrial waste generation. Nevertheless, industrial waste constitutes more than ninety percent of waste generated in the European Union. This study assesses the impact of an incineration tax on the generation of industrial plastic waste in Flanders, Belgium. We conduct different types of econometrical panel analyzes and provide statistical evidence that firms show lagged behavior, which means that the previous year’s waste generation partly determines the current year’s. The dynamic panel estimations show robust results, indicating that a growth of incineration taxes exert significant negative effects on the growth of industrial plastic waste generation. This result offers no argument to iteratively raise incineration taxes. We conclude that incineration taxation is meaningful if tax rates are set according to the prevailing market conditions, i.e. taking into account the marginal costs of alternatives for incineration. In the short run, the effectiveness of taxation will quickly diminish due to the rapidly rising marginal costs of waste reduction. In the long run, extra recycling capacity is needed to recycle the minimized waste fraction. The role of taxation in the long run is to maintain an equilibrium in which recycling is preferred by the market.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Impact Factor: 13.2
DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2020.104717
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“Take out the farmer: An economic assessment of land expropriation for urban expansion in Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia”. Admasu WF, Van Passel S, Minale AS, Tsegaye EA, Azadi H, Nyssen J, Land Use Policy 87, 104038 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.LANDUSEPOL.2019.104038
Abstract: In Ethiopia, the demand for land for urbanisation is primarily met by converting rural land through expropriation. However, land expropriations are adversely affecting the previous land users by reducing the amount of production and their sources of income. In Bahir Dar, one of the fastest-growing cities in Ethiopia, approximately 300 landholdings are expropriated each year, on average, for urban expansion. This paper assesses the land expropriations to examine whether they offer economically appropriate compensation for the previous land users. Land expropriations for urbanisation between 2007/2008 and 2016/2017 were analysed based on data on land expropriation and its compensation payment obtained from the Bahir Dar City Land Administration and Management Office. Data were analysed using an exponential growth model and a stochastic budgeting technique in which Monte Carlo simulations are performed. Between 2007/2008 and 2016/2017, more than 1500 ha of land were included in the city's boundary through expropriation from 2900 landholders. The affected farmers received compensation that represents only 37 per cent of the value of current crop yields and its growth. The current compensation scheme ignores the impact of inflation on the prices of crops and assumes constant yields. It also excludes the value of crop residuals. We propose a workable discounted compensation framework that considers crop price and yield growths. This will make the compensation scheme more appropriate and make the affected farmers better off.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.089
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1016/J.LANDUSEPOL.2019.104038
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“Influence of information provided at the moment of a fire alarm on the choice of exit”. Peeters M, Compernolle T, Van Passel S, Fire Safety Journal 117, 103221 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.FIRESAF.2020.103221
Abstract: The data generated in buildings are used for all types of purposes. The quality of information used in assisting people to escape an emergency situation is of importance. In practice today, none of the data-generating systems that aid in the escape from emergency situations is validated on a regular basis. This study is based on the smart building concept. The rationale behind this concept is to provide information about a building and the usage of that building at each moment in time. An experiment was conducted to measure the impact of different types of information on participants' choice of exit, exit time and distance travelled. Seven identical floors of one building were used with different setups to see if the choice of exit is influenced by the type of information provided at the moment of an alarm. It was found that the information does have a significant impact on the choice of exit, escape speed and distance travelled. Furthermore, it was shown that false information can increase the time it takes to leave the building and the distance travelled, impacting the survival rate. The more imperative information is visualised, the stronger its influence is on the choices made.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Center for Oncological Research (CORE)
Impact Factor: 3.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.FIRESAF.2020.103221
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“Leasing out unused meeting room capacity to reduce future office space needs : a case study of The Hague, Netherlands”. Peeters M, Compernolle T, Van Passel S, Journal of building engineering 44, 102953 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JOBE.2021.102953
Abstract: Meeting rooms are reserved 30% of working hours but only used for 20% of that time. By implementing a strategy where the available capacity is leased to the wider market rather than just the building users, there is a positive impact on the economic, environmental, and social factors of the building and its surroundings. This study uses the building 'The Globe' in The Hague as a case study, and then projects the results to the entire city. In case of The Globe, implementing a lease out strategy achieves a reduction of 36% of the annual rent of the meeting rooms to the building's tenant. The owner benefits from a revenue increase of 12.5%, with the same operational expenses (except the reservation system), leading to a proportional higher valuation of the building. Annual energy consumption may be lowered by 6.2%. This study contributes to the literature by considering the total benefits that could be obtained by more efficient use of office space that is currently underused. The application of technology generates added value for economic, environmental, and social factors. These factors are important in real estate as they (among others) have a direct link to the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) analysis that investors make before proceeding with an investment.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1016/J.JOBE.2021.102953
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“From fast-track implementation to livelihood deterioration: The dam-based Ribb Irrigation and Drainage Project in Northwest Ethiopia”. Annys S, Van Passel S, Dessein J, Adgo E, Nyssen J, Agricultural Systems 184, 102909 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.AGSY.2020.102909
Abstract: The 21st century revival of large-scale water resources development projects makes it important to keep assessing their impacts – preferably from an interdisciplinary perspective – in order to not repeat past mistakes and explore whether they could improve livelihood conditions for rural communities. In this study, costs and benefits of the World Bank-funded Ribb Irrigation and Drainage Project (RIDP) were investigated using a unique systems approach. The impact for farmers with different initial farming systems (rainfed – residual moisture – irrigated) was studied using field observations, document analyses, remote sensing, agronomic data and semi-structured interviews (n = 165). Data on project-induced changes to land and water availability, cropping patterns, farming systems and farm-level economics were collected. The results show that dam and dyke construction has reduced flooding, which has resulted in declining rice productivity ( – 42%) and concomitant shifts to lower value cropping systems. Results also reveal that the land redistribution has caused widespread livelihood deterioration as households had to give up 25% of their farmland and the communal grazing land was fully converted into farmland. Due to top-down implementation, nontransparent communication, delayed construction and lagging financial compensation, social resistance has appeared in the command area, impeding the construction works. In addition to these problems, if no rapid change to higher value crops can be realized, 20.5% of the farmers (those who already irrigate) will experience a loss of livelihood, 64.1% of the farmers (those with rainfed and residual moisture cultivation) will be on the verge of livelihood deterioration and only 13.5% of the farmers (those with solely rainfed cultivation) will enjoy RIDP-induced improved livelihoods. The fate of this project stresses the importance of investigating initial farming systems, exploring worthy project alternatives, improving participation, communication and benefit-sharing and strengthening the institutional capacity of implementing authorities.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 6.6
DOI: 10.1016/J.AGSY.2020.102909
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“Analyzing the impact of land expropriation program on farmers' livelihood in urban fringes of Bahir Dar, Ethiopia”. Fitawok MB, Derudder B, Minale AS, Van Passel S, Adgo E, Nyssen J, Habitat International 129, 102674 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.HABITATINT.2022.102674
Abstract: This paper analyzes the impact of urban land-use changes on farmers' livelihood around the city of Bahir Dar (Ethiopia). Rapid urban expansion in and around the city has resulted in massive land-use changes in its urban fringes, with land expropriation programs affecting communities' livelihood and the environment. A survey was conducted in three urbanizing villages near Bahir Dar, focusing on 150 farmers who were land-expropriated and 180 farmers who were non-land-expropriated. Regression models and propensity matching scoring are applied to examine the livelihood differences of farmers in terms of farm income, off-farm income, primary expenditure type, and perception of urban expansion benefits to farmers. The results reveal that land expropriation in the area has led to (a) a shift to off-farm income for land expropriated farmers; (b) an increase in their household expenditure on staple foods compared to other expenditure types, including farm inputs; and (c) diverging perceptions on whether and how city expansion benefits farmers in the neighboring villages. Our findings provide insight into the need for tighter and impactful policy actions to ensure the sustainability of urbanization through accommodating expropriated farmers' livelihood changes and protecting natural resources in the area.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sociology; Law; Art; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.285
DOI: 10.1016/J.HABITATINT.2022.102674
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“Ecosystem services assessment tools for African Biosphere Reserves: A review and user-informed classification”. Hugé, J, Rochette Aj, de Béthune S, Parra Paitan Cc, Vanderhaegen K, Vandervelden T, Van Passel S, Vanhove Mpm, Verbist B, Verheyen D, Waas T, Janssens I, Janssens de Bisthoven L, Ecosystem Services 42, 101079 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoser.2020.101079
Abstract: While the concept of ecosystem services which links biodiversity to human wellbeing, is by now well-known, its translation into actual management decisions is still uneven. African Biosphere Reserves, which are to be living labs for sustainable development, embody the idea of synergies between people and nature. Gaining knowledge about the provision, the use and the trends of ecosystem services in these reserves is essential to ensure their global change-proof management. The diversity of rapidly evolving ecosystem services assessment tools requires a systematic and informed selection, in order to ensure that prospective tool users select the most adequate tool, aligned to their needs and context. Based on a Delphi survey of future tool users, and on a review of ecosystem services assessment tools, we propose guidance to users to select the most suited tool based on the context of African Biosphere Reserves, and on tool requirements regarding data input, necessary skills, outputs and types of ecosystem services addressed. The use of the Delphi survey and the focus on African Biosphere Reserves are new elements that contribute to the theory and practice of ecosystem services assessment.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Impact Factor: 7.6
DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoser.2020.101079
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“Simulation of a controlled water heating system with demand response remunerated on imbalance market pricing”. Peeters M, Compernolle T, Van Passel S, Journal of building engineering 27, 100969 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JOBE.2019.100969
Abstract: Buildings are responsible for 40% of our worldwide energy consumption and 50% of this energy is converted for Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems in buildings. The increasing share of renewable energy production required to make the transition towards a carbon neutral energy system challenges the stability of the grid. Through demand response it becomes possible to activate these systems in support of grid balancing. However, this flexibility is currently not rewarded in the market. We simulate a domestic water heater participating in the balancing of the electricity net and calculated the revenue from this action. We simulate a water heater in connection with an Economic Model Predictive Controller (EMPC) which takes future usage, energy cost, and reward for delivering balanced power into account. We show that the choice of an EMPC controller is valid as it allows the setpoint to change if certain conditions are met, leading to a more optimal revenue stream from selling flexibility. We find that the economic benefits of participating in delivering balancing power is considerable and offset an increase in energy costs. The increase in energy consumption could be justified as the participation in net stabilisation allows the macro-system to integrate more renewable energy sources. More importantly, the simulations also show that the poorer the energy performance of the water heater, the more flexibility can be sold. From a policy point of view, a minimal energy performance should be determined before allowing participation in net stabilisation.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1016/J.JOBE.2019.100969
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“Conflict, fraud, and distrust in Ethiopian agricultural cooperatives”. Sebhatu KT, Gezahegn TW, Berhanu T, Maertens M, Van Passel S, D’Haese M, Journal of Co-operative Organization and Management 8, 100106 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcom.2020.100106
Abstract: Agricultural cooperatives are seen as an efficient way for smallholder farmers to create bargaining power in order to achieve poverty reduction and food security. However, the success of these cooperatives depends on their ability to maintain their social capital, which is at the core of collective action. A few studies have addressed issues of member participation, commitment, and trust, yet less is known about rural cooperatives in developing countries as a social organization. It is also unclear whether a relationship exists between cooperative size and the incidence of conflict, fraud, and distrust. Using unique data collected from 511 agricultural cooperatives in 12 districts of Tigray region in northern Ethiopia, this paper examines the effects of cooperative size on conflict, fraud, and distrust. We used instrumental variables (IV) probit estimation techniques, accounting for endogeneity of membership size, to confirm that cooperative size does affect the occurrence of conflict, fraud, and trust. The results also indicate that other influencing factors include: cooperative age, number of employees, payment of dividends based on transaction volume, and heterogeneity of member goals.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Agricultural cooperatives; Cooperative size; Conflict; Fraud; Distrust; Ethiopia; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
DOI: 10.1016/j.jcom.2020.100106
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“Sustainability indicators of irans developmental plans : application of the sustainability compass theory”. Mahdei KN, Pouya M, Taheri F, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Sustainability 7, 14647 (2015). http://doi.org/10.3390/SU71114647
Abstract: The main purpose of this study was to analyze Irans developmental plans in order to examine and compare their direction and conformity with the sustainable development theory via the compass of sustainability. The approach involves a content analysis used in line with qualitative research methodologies. The results indicated that, in the first developmental plans, there was no direct reference to sustainable development. In the second to fifth plans, the main focus was on the social, environmental, and economic dimensions of development; which were common elements seen in the policies of all the plans. An analysis of the fourth plan revealed that expressions related to sustainable development appeared more frequently, indicating a stronger emphasis on sustainable development by decision-makers.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.789
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.3390/SU71114647
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“An attempt to develop ecotourism in an unknown area : the case of Nehbandan County, South Khorasan Province, Iran”. Ghorbani A, Mousazadeh H, Taheri F, Ehteshammajd S, Azadi H, Yazdanpanah M, Khajehshahkohi A, Tanaskovik V, Van Passel S, Environment, development and sustainability 23, 11792 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10668-020-01142-W
Abstract: This study is an attempt to develop ecotourism in Nehbandan County, in the South Khorasan Province, Iran, by representing unknown areas that have tourism potential. The most important obstacle in the development of tourism industry is the lack of strong marketing plans, tourism management, accommodations for overnight and long stays, and medical and health clinic in the desert. This is a qualitative, exploratory case study investigating the status of environmental, sociocultural, and economic impacts of ecotourism development on the native people's livelihood in Nehbandan County in Iran. The methodology is based on field observations, secondary data sources, and field survey. It is an interpretive approach that avoids numbers but focuses on issues linked to culture and nature. In the present study, the grounded theory was used to perform data analysis. Based on the findings, ecotourism has undoubtedly proven to be an effective environmental conservation tool in the study site and enables local people to increase their livelihood security through employment in activities relating to ecotourism and the development of rural livelihood.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1007/S10668-020-01142-W
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“Transition metal-free approach for the late-stage benzylic C(sp3)-H etherifications and esterifications”. Zhang Y, Sahoo PK, Ren P, Qin Y, Cauwenbergh R, Nimmegeers P, Gandhi SR, Van Passel S, Guidetti A, Das S, Chemical Communications 58, 11454 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1039/D2CC02661A
Abstract: Herein, we report a transition metal-free approach for the regioselective functionalisation of benzylic C(sp3)-H bonds using alcohols and carboxylic acids as the nucleophiles. This approach provides a straightforward route for the synthesis of various benzylic ethers and esters to provide a wide generality of this system. Expediently, twelve pharmaceutically relevant compounds have been synthesized using this strategy.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM); Organic synthesis (ORSY); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Impact Factor: 4.9
DOI: 10.1039/D2CC02661A
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“Farmers' willingness to contribute to the restoration of an Ethiopian Rift Valley lake : a contingent valuation study”. Girma H, Huge J, Gebrehiwot M, Van Passel S, Environment, development and sustainability 23, 10646 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10668-020-01076-3
Abstract: Lakes provide considerable social, economic, and ecological benefits. However, lakes are shrinking and the water quality is declining, due to human pressures such as water withdrawal and land use change, particularly in the developing world. Despite this, information regarding the economic impact of lake level reduction and local willingness to support restoration programs is lacking. This study employed a contingent valuation method to estimate willingness to pay and to contribute labor to Lake Ziway restoration program, Ethiopia. Face-to-face interviews were administered to 259 randomly selected respondents. Our findings revealed that about one-third of the respondents are willing to pay and about two-third are willing to contribute labor to restore the lake. From the interval regression models, the annual mean willingness to pay was estimated about 21.0 USD for the status quo scenario (the program works to keep water levels constant at current levels) and 31.1 USD for the improvement scenario (the program works to increase the water levels permanently). The annual mean willingness to contribute labor was estimated about 27.7 man-days for the status quo and 39.3 man-days for the improvement scenarios. 'Farm income' positively influenced the willingness to pay together with 'farm plot area.' Similarly, labor contribution was positively influenced by 'farm plot area' and 'education' and negatively by 'farm plot distance.' The economic values derived from this study reflect societal preferences and can form a significant input for policymakers, in support of informed and evidence-based decision-making regarding lake management and restoration in developing countries like Ethiopia.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1007/S10668-020-01076-3
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“Economic and environmental performances of small-scale rural PV solar projects under the clean development mechanism : the case of Cambodia”. De Schepper E, Lizin S, Durlinger B, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Energies 8, 9892 (2015). http://doi.org/10.3390/EN8099892
Abstract: The two core objectives of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) are cost-effective emission reduction and sustainable development. Despite the potential to contribute to both objectives, solar projects play a negligible role under the CDM. In this research, the greenhouse gas mitigation cost is used to evaluate the economic and environmental performances of small-scale rural photovoltaic solar projects. In particular, we compare the use of absolute and relative mitigation costs to evaluate the attractiveness of these projects under the CDM. We encourage the use of relative mitigation costs, implying consideration of baseline costs that render the projects profitable. Results of the mitigation cost analysis are dependent on the baseline chosen. To overcome this drawback, we complement the analysis with a multi-objective optimization approach, which allows quantifying the trade-off between economic and environmental performances of the optimal technologies without requiring a baseline.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.262
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.3390/EN8099892
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“A multi-objective optimization-extended techno-economic assessment : exploring the optimal microalgal-based value chain”. Thomassen G, Van Dael M, You F, Van Passel S, Green Chemistry 21, 5945 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1039/C9GC03071A
Abstract: The use of fossil-based products induces a large environmental burden. To lighten this burden, green technologies are required that can replace their fossil-based counterparts. To enable the development of economically viable green technologies, an optimization towards both economic and environmental objectives is required. To perform this multi-objective optimization (MOO), the environmental techno-economic assessment (ETEA) methodology is extended towards a MOO-extended ETEA. The development of this MOO-extended ETEA is the main objective of this manuscript. As an example of a green technology, the concept of microalgae biorefineries is used as a case study to illustrate the MOO-extended ETEA. According to the results, all optimal value chains include open pond cultivation, a membrane for medium recycling and spray drying. The optimal economic value chain uses Nannochloropsis sp. in a one-stage cultivation to produce fish larvae feed, while the optimal environmental design uses Dunaliella salina or Haematococcus pluvialis to produce carotenoids and fertilizer or energy products, by means of anaerobic digestion or gasification. The crucial parameters for both environmental and economic feasibility are the content, price and reference impact of the main end product, the growth parameters and the biomass and carotenoid recovery efficiency alongside the different process steps. By identifying the economic and environmentally optimal algal-based value chain and the crucial drivers, the MOO-extended ETEA provides insights on how algae-based value chains can be developed in the most economic and environmentally-friendly way. For example, the inclusion of a medium recycling step to lower the water and salt consumption is required in all Pareto-optimal scenarios. Another major insight is the requirement of high-value products such as carotenoids or specialty food to obtain and economically and environmentally feasible algal-based value chain. Due to the modular nature of the MOO-extended ETEA, multiple processes can be included or excluded from the superstructure. Although this case study is limited to current microalgae biorefinery technologies, the MOO-extended ETEA can also be used to assess the economic and environmental effect of more innovative technologies. This way, the MOO-extended ETEA provides a methodology to assess the economic and environmental potential of innovative green technologies and shorten their time-to-market.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 9.125
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1039/C9GC03071A
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“The future of Ex-Ante LCA? Lessons learned and practical recommendations”. Buyle M, Audenaert A, Billen P, Boonen K, Van Passel S, Sustainability 11, 5456 (2019). http://doi.org/10.3390/SU11195456
Abstract: Every decision-oriented life cycle assessment (LCAs) entails, at least to some extent, a future-oriented feature. However, apart from the ex-ante LCAs, the majority of LCA studies are retrospective in nature and do not explicitly account for possible future effects. In this review a generic theoretical framework is proposed as a guideline for ex-ante LCA. This framework includes the entire technology life cycle, from the early design phase up to continuous improvements of mature technologies, including their market penetration. The compatibility with commonly applied system models yields an additional aspect of the framework. Practical methods and procedures are categorised, based on how they incorporate future-oriented features in LCA. The results indicate that most of the ex-ante LCAs focus on emerging technologies that have already gone through some research cycles within narrowly defined system boundaries. There is a lack of attention given to technologies that are at a very early development stage, when all options are still open and can be explored at a low cost. It is also acknowledged that technological learning impacts the financial and environmental performance of mature production systems. Once technologies are entering the market, shifts in market composition can lead to substantial changes in environmental performance.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE); Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings (EMIB)
Impact Factor: 1.789
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.3390/SU11195456
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“How to assess the potential of emerging green technologies? Towards a prospective environmental and techno-economic assessment framework”. Thomassen G, Van Dael M, Van Passel S, You F, Green Chemistry 21, 4868 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1039/C9GC02223F
Abstract: For sustainable production and consumption, emerging green technologies need to be optimized towards a minimal environmental impact and a maximal economic impact. In an early stage of technology development, more flexibility is available to adapt the technology. Therefore, a prospective environmental and techno-economic assessment is required. The prospective assessment differs at the different stages of technology development, as also the data availability and accuracy evolves. This paper reviews the different prospective technological, economic and environmental assessment methods which have been used to assess the potential of new green chemical technologies. Based on the current best practices, an overarching framework is introduced to assess the technological, economic and environmental potential of an emerging green chemical technology at the different stages of technology development.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 9.125
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1039/C9GC02223F
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“Climate-Smart Agriculture in the Northeast of Brazil: An Integrated Assessment of the Aquaponics Technology”. Finizola e Silva M, Van Passel S, Sustainability 12, 3734 (2020). http://doi.org/10.3390/su12093734
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to determine if aquaponic systems can reduce food insecurity in the semi-arid regions of Brazil and generate income for the beneficiaries. Aquaponics is a potentially sustainable way to produce food based on gardening, hydroponics and aquaculture. A case study, based on a project called Aquaponova, was developed. The aquaponic systems currently used in the project are non-commercial and designed for households with limited resources. The data based on six existing systems within this project were used to compare the costs and the benefits. The cost–benefit analysis covers four scenarios and three financing options. The results show that aquaponic systems have a large potential and can reduce food insecurity in semi-arid regions while generating income for the beneficiaries. Even if the system only produces 40% of the total estimated production, the system will still be feasible. However, the low opportunity cost of labour is an essential factor for obtaining these positive results. Moreover, the social benefits, such as a community spirit and the health benefits of the system, should not be underestimated.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; aquaponics; Aquaponova; Brazil; semi-arid region; food insecurity; cost–benefit analysis; socio-economic approach; climate-smart agriculture; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Impact Factor: 3.9
DOI: 10.3390/su12093734
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“Benefit segmentation of tourists to geosites and its implications for sustainable development of geotourism in the Southern Lake Tana Region, Ethiopia”. Tessema GA, van der Borg J, Van Rompaey A, Van Passel S, Adgo E, Minale AS, Asrese K, Frankl A, Poesen J, Sustainability 14, 3411 (2022). http://doi.org/10.3390/SU14063411
Abstract: Geotourism is a sustainable type of tourism that focuses on the geological and geomorphological heritages of an area, and the associated cultural and biodiversity features. Though the popularity of geotourism is rapidly growing, research on the demand side, particularly on segmenting tourists to geosites and understanding their profiles, is limited. This obviously makes the designing of effective tourism policies that aim at developing geotourism sustainably very difficult. Hence, the main objectives of this study were to segment and profile tourists to geosites based on the benefits sought, and to show its implications for sustainable development of geotourism. With a survey of 415 tourists, this study clustered tourists to geosites in the southern Lake Tana region in Ethiopia based on the benefits sought. A factor-cluster method was applied to segment the tourists. The study identified four distinct segments: Activity-Nature Lovers, Culture Lovers, Nature-Culture Lovers, and Want-It-Alls. These segments differed in their demographic, trip, and behavioral characteristics. The findings implied that for sustainable development, destination managers and marketers need to customize their geotourism product development and marketing strategies based on the needs and characteristics of each market segment.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.9
DOI: 10.3390/SU14063411
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