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Author Merante, P.; Van Passel, S.; Pacini, C.
Title Using agro-environmental models to design a sustainable benchmark for the sustainable value method Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Agricultural Systems Abbreviated Journal Agr Syst
Volume 136 Issue Pages 1-13
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000354503000001 Publication Date 2015-02-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0308-521x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.571 Times cited 6 Open Access
Notes ; We wish to thank all participants to the SVAPPAS project for their inspiring contributions and challenging debates. Furthermore, we are grateful to the financial support from the 6th Framework Programme of the EU (project code: SSPECT – 2006 – DG AGRI). The authors thank the technicians Giovanna Casella and Roberto Vivoli (University of Florence) for their technical contribution. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.571; 2015 IF: 2.906
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127536 Serial 6275
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Author Meul, M.; Van Middelaar, C.E.; de Boer, I.J.M.; Van Passel, S.; Fremaut, D.; Haesaert, G.
Title Potential of life cycle assessment to support environmental decision making at commercial dairy farms Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Agricultural Systems Abbreviated Journal Agr Syst
Volume 131 Issue Pages 105-115
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000343955300011 Publication Date 2014-09-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0308-521x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.571 Times cited 25 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.571; 2014 IF: 2.906
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127540 Serial 6238
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Author Moretti, M.; De Boni, A.; Roma, R.; Fracchiolla, M.; Van Passel, S.
Title Integrated assessment of agro-ecological systems : the case study of the “Alta Murgia” National park in Italy Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Agricultural Systems Abbreviated Journal Agr Syst
Volume 144 Issue Pages 144-155
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Several indicators and methods are already applied for sustainability assessment in agriculture. The links between sustainability indicators, agricultural management and policies are not well explained. The aim of this study is to combine biophysical and monetary sustainability assessment tools to support agriculture policy decision-making. Three methodological steps are considered: i) the environmental impacts of farms are assessed using terrestrial acidification, freshwater eutrophication, soil and freshwater ecotoxicity as well as natural land transformation; ii) the most relevant indicators of agriculture damages on ecosystems quality are aggregated into an index; iii) the farms' index scores are integrated with farm assets, land and labor, into the Sustainable Value approach (SVA), as indicator of natural resources used by farms. As a case study, the methodology was applied to arable farms with and without animal husbandry of the “Alta Murgia” National Park. The crop farms, in our sample, have a higher sustainable value using their economic and environmental resources. Mixed farms need to improve their resources use efficiency. Although crop farms have lower land-use efficiency compared to mixed farms, our results suggest supporting, by means of policy options, the specialized crop farms that, on average, perform better in terms of ecosystems quality preservation. Finally, we find that Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to soundly measure the environmental impacts clearly enriches the SVA. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000373553100014 Publication Date 2016-02-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0308-521x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.571 Times cited 6 Open Access
Notes ; We would like to thank the editor and the anonymous referees for their helpful suggestions and insightful comments that have significantly improved the paper. The authors want to thank the “Alta Murgia” Park Authority for the support in this study and all farmers that collaborated with the authors providing data. Moreover, the authors want to thank Dr. Sylvestre Njakou Djomo for the useful discussion and suggestion to build the LCA model. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.571
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:133254 Serial 6218
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Author Pacini, G.C.; Merante, P.; Lazzerini, G.; Van Passel, S.
Title Increasing the cost-effectiveness of EU agri-environment policy measures through evaluation of farm and field-level environmental and economic performance Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Agricultural Systems Abbreviated Journal Agr Syst
Volume 136 Issue Pages 70-78
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000354503000007 Publication Date 2015-03-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0308-521x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.571 Times cited 12 Open Access
Notes ; We wish to thank all participants to the SVAPPAS project for their inspiring contributions and challenging debates. We are furthermore grateful to the financial support from the 6th Framework Programme of the EU (project code: SSPECT – 2006 – DG AGRI). The authors are most grateful to technicians Giovanna Casella and Roberto Vivoli (University of Florence) for their technical contribution. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.571; 2015 IF: 2.906
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127537 Serial 6216
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Author van Winsen, F.; de Mey, Y.; Lauwers, L.; Van Passel, S.; Vancauteren, M.; Wauters, E.
Title Cognitive mapping : a method to elucidate and present farmers' risk perception Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Agricultural Systems Abbreviated Journal Agr Syst
Volume 122 Issue Pages 42-52
Keywords A1 Journal article
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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000326910500005 Publication Date 2013-09-12
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0308-521x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.571 Times cited 27 Open Access
Notes ; We would like to acknowledge the Agency for Innovation by Science and Technology of the Flemish Government (IWT) for funding this research. Furthermore we would like to thank the anonymous reviewers for their valuable input. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.571; 2013 IF: 2.453
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:112765 Serial 6168
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Author De Schepper, E.; Van Passel, S.; Lizin, S.
Title Economic benefits of combining clean energy technologies : the case of solar photovoltaics and battery electric vehicles Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication International Journal Of Energy Research Abbreviated Journal Int J Energ Res
Volume 39 Issue 8 Pages 1109-1119
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000355732200006 Publication Date 2015-03-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0363-907x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.598 Times cited 14 Open Access
Notes ; Sebastien Lizin would like to thank the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO), grant number 12G5415N, for their funding without which it would have been impossible to review this work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.598; 2015 IF: 2.418
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127535 Serial 6188
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Author Chekol Zewdie, M.; Van Passel, S.; Cools, J.; Tenessa, D.B.; Ayele, Z.A.; Tsegaye, E.A.; Minale, A.S.; Nyssen, J.
Title Direct and indirect effect of irrigation water availability on crop revenue in northwest Ethiopia : a structural equation model Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Agricultural Water Management Abbreviated Journal Agr Water Manage
Volume 220 Issue 220 Pages 27-35
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Development of a clear understanding of the relationship between the availability of dam-driven irrigation water and crop revenue is important in poverty reduction and food security process. As a result, large research efforts are devoted to understanding the relationship between the availability of irrigation water and crop revenue. However, earlier studies do have several limitations. For example, without considering its indirect effect, prior studies focused solely on the direct effect of availability of irrigation water on crop revue. In this study, using a structural equation model analysis, the direct and indirect effect of availability of dam-driven irrigation water on crop revenue is decomposed and quantified specifically for the Koga irrigation scheme, located in the Mecha district of Amhara region in Ethiopia. A primary data set was collected from a randomly selected sample of 450 households in the Koga irrigation scheme. More than half of the households (254) are supported by the Koga Dam irrigation water during the dry season, and the other 196 households depended only on rainfall. The results of the study showed that, in addition to its direct effect, the availability of irrigation water indirectly affected crop revenue through receptivity of the farmers to use modern farm inputs. Around 27 percent of the total effect of dam-driven irrigation water on crop revenue was mediated by farmers’ receptivity to use yield-enhancing modern farm inputs. The results of this study suggested that the availability of irrigation water is essential to improve both crop revenue and receptivity of the farmers to use modern farm inputs. This finding also drives a strategic framework that the receptivity of the farmers to use modern farm inputs is crucial for utilizing the positive effects of irrigation water availability on crop revenue.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000470941300003 Publication Date 2019-04-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0378-3774 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor (up) 2.848 Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to thank Bahir Dar University – Institutional University Cooperation (BDU-IUC) VLIR_UOS project for providing us enough funds for the completion of this study. Special gratitude is given to Abrehet Kahassay and Kassahun Birhanu for helping us to map the study area; and to the data collectors (Hilemichael Fentahun, Etsehewot Birara, and Tsegachewu Degu) for their commitment. The authors gratefully acknowledge the Koga Irrigation Scheme office managers, Tewachewu Abebe, and his colleagues for their support during the data collection. The authors also acknowledge the farmers (respondents) for their willingness to spend time responding honestly to questions. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.848
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:159246 Serial 6182
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Author Nyssen, J.; Fetene, F.; Dessie, M.; Alemayehu, G.; Sewnet, A.; Wassie, A.; Kibret, M.; Walraevens, K.; Derudder, B.; Nicolai, B.; Annys, S.; Tegegne, F.; Van Passel, S.; Frankl, A.; Verleyen, E.; Teklemariam, D.; Adgo, E.
Title Persistence and changes in the peripheral Beles basin of Ethiopia Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Regional Environmental Change Abbreviated Journal Reg Environ Change
Volume 18 Issue 7 Pages 2089-2104
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract We have investigated the relevance of the notion of “peripheralism” in the Beles basin. In this lowland border area of Ethiopia, important investments require an evaluation of their socio-economic and ecological impacts in the light of Ethiopia's Climate-Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) strategy. We contrasted literature of different periods with field observations. In the middle and lower parts of the basin, the Gumuz people traditionally practised shifting cultivation. Resettlement of highlanders is particularly linked to water and land resources. A large irrigation project was initiated in the 1980s, but vegetables and fruits face post-harvest losses. Large water transfers from Lake Tana since 2010 affect the movement of people, the hydrogeomorphology, and ecology of the river. In several parts of the basin, the settlers' economy now dominates. Many Gumuz became sedentary but maintained their agricultural system, particularly in the south of the lower basin. Land titling allowed allocation of “vacant” areas to transnational or domestic investors. As a result, the semi-natural vegetation is frequently replaced by open cropland, leading to decreased carbon storage and increased soil erosion. This and water abstraction for irrigation jeopardise hydropower production, in contradiction with the CRGE objectives. Despite the recent developments, the contrasts in economic activity make the core-periphery dichotomy to remain actual in the Beles basin. The resettlements and permanent cropping tend to make the upper basin part of the core. However, the installation of a transit road and commercial farms in the lower basin do not allow to consider that a non-peripheral integration has taken place.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000445234600017 Publication Date 2018-04-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1436-3798 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.919 Times cited 3 Open Access
Notes ; The authors acknowledge the numerous local inhabitants and authorities who shared their knowledge with us, particularly in Pawe and Dangur districts. All participants in group discussions and group excursions to the Beles basin are thanked for sharing ideas. The Institutional University Cooperation with Bahir Dar University (BDU-IUC), funded by the Belgian authorities, through the Flemish Interuniversity Council-University Development Cooperation, hosted the research activities. Lutgart Lenaerts (Norwegian University of Life Sciences) shared inspiring thoughts and Daniel Mege (Polish Academy of Sciences) provided useful documentation. Daniel Mege as well as Eric Movet (www.mydriase.fr) gave permission to use illustrations. The constructive comments on an earlier version of this paper by two anonymous reviewers and the editor are greatly acknowledged. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.919
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:154137 Serial 6235
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Author Ang, F.; Van Passel, S.
Title The sustainable value approach : a clarifying and constructive comment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2010 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 69 Issue 12 Pages 2303-2306
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract Recently, the original benchmarking methodology of the Sustainable Value approach became subjected to serious debate. While Kuosmanen and Kuosmanen (2009b) critically question its validity introducing productive efficiency theory, Figge and Hahn (2009) put forward that the implementation of productive efficiency theory severely conflicts with the original financial economics perspective of the Sustainable Value approach. We argue that the debate is very confusing because the original Sustainable Value approach presents two largely incompatible objectives. Nevertheless, we maintain that both ways of benchmarking could provide useful and moreover complementary insights. If one intends to present the overall resource efficiency of the firm from the investor's viewpoint, we recommend the original benchmarking methodology. If one on the other hand aspires to create a prescriptive tool setting up some sort of reallocation scheme, we advocate implementation of the productive efficiency theory. Although the discussion on benchmark application is certainly substantial, we should avoid the debate to become accordingly narrowed. Next to the benchmark concern, we see several other challenges considering the development of the Sustainable Value approach: (1) a more systematic resource selection, (2) the inclusion of the value chain and (3) additional analyses related to policy in order to increase interpretative power.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000283700900001 Publication Date 2010-07-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.965 Times cited 18 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965; 2010 IF: 2.754
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:136760 Serial 6258
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Author Daniels, S.; Bellmore, J.R.; Benjamin, J.R.; Witters, N.; Vangronsveld, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Quantification of the indirect use value of functional group diversity based on the ecological role of species in the ecosystem Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 153 Issue 153 Pages 181-194
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract An important issue in biodiversity valuation is gaining a better understanding of how biodiversity conservation affects economic activities and human welfare. Quantifying the economic benefits of biodiversity for human well-being is not straightforward. Here, we expand the ecosystem service cascade by (i) attributing a methodology to the different steps of the cascade to assess the effects of changes in functional group diversity on economic activities; (ii) including multiple attributes for defining functional diversity and (iii) integrating a dynamic ecological model simulating complex interactions and feedbacks between species with an economic model assessing the effects of changes in functional group diversity for gross revenues. The stepwise methodological framework integrates a production function approach with a market price-based approach in order to investigate the indirect use value of functional group diversity based on the ecological role of species in the ecosystem. The methodology is applied to estimate the relationship between the gross economic value of Chinook salmon (Pacific Northwest, United States) and the diversity of freshwater macroinvertebrates. The results of our analysis emphasize the importance of biological diversity for sustaining ecosystem goods and services. The analysis provides a tractable framework for quantitatively exploring the economic consequences of changes in functional group diversity.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000443669200016 Publication Date 2018-07-31
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor (up) 2.965 Times cited Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to thank Ken Bagstad for his valuable comments. The research was made possible with the financial aid from a BOF grant of the Centre for Environmental Sciences (CMK, Hasselt University, BE) (BSFFEEC-R4270). Nele Witters is funded by Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO). Any use of trade, firm, or product names is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153598 Serial 6239
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Author Jouzi, Z.; Azadi, H.; Taheri, F.; Zarafshani, K.; Gebrehiwot, K.; Van Passel, S.; Lebailly, P.
Title Organic farming and small-scale farmers : main opportunities and challenges Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 132 Issue Pages 144-154
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Producing enough food to meet the needs of a growing population has always been the greatest concern of food policy-makers around the world. Given the increasing attention to organic farming (OF), we conducted this study to investigate the main opportunities and challenges of the food production system of small-scale farmers in developing countries with an emphasis on their livelihoods. The study showed that the most significant advantages of OF are environmental protection and a higher resilience to environmental changes, increasing farmers' income and reducing external input cost, enhancing social capacity and increasing employment opportunities. A s well as enhancing food security primarily by increasing the food purchasing power of local people. However, the main challenges of this food production system include lower yields in comparison to conventional systems, difficulties with soil nutrient management, certification and market barriers, and the educational and research needs of small-holders. The paper concludes that even though OF might present some significant challenges to small-scale farmers, it could/should still be considered as a part of the solution and means of improving their livelihoods.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000390825200014 Publication Date 2016-11-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.965 Times cited 39 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139034 Serial 6233
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Author Daniels, S.; Witters, N.; Beliën, T.; Vrancken, K.; Vangronsveld, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Monetary valuation of natural predators for biological pest control in pear production Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 134 Issue Pages 160-173
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract In spite of global actions, biodiversity is declining at an alarming rate. Despite the need for objectively comparable monetary standards to include biodiversity arguments in policymaking, research on the relationship between species diversity and its valuation from a societal perspective is still scarce. In this paper, a methodological framework for the valuation of natural predators based on their ecological role in the agroecosystem is introduced. The framework integrates a dynamic ecological model simulating interactions between species with an economic model, thereby quantifying the effect of reduced numbers of natural predators on the net farm income. The model attributes an objective monetary value to increased species diversity through the changes in the provisioning of a marketable good. Results indicate that the loss of three predators could decrease net farm income with 88.86 ha− 1 to 2186.5 ha− 1. For the pear production sector in Flanders in 2011, this constitutes to an indirect use value of 0,68 million for one predator and 16.63 million for the presence of three predators. The aim is to provide a justification for the argument for biodiversity conservation, based on the ecological function of species, through the delivery of comparable monetary standards.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000395219300018 Publication Date 2017-01-26
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.965 Times cited 4 Open Access
Notes ; The research was made possible with the financial aid from a BOF grant of the Centre for Environmental Sciences (CMK, Hasselt University). Nele Witters is funded by Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO). The authors would like to thank Ellen Elias from Symbio for providing relevant data and insights into the complex interplay between pest insects, natural predators and human impacts from fertilizers and pesticide use. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:140685 Serial 6228
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Author Van Passel, S.; Nevens, F.; Mathijs, E.; Van Huylenbroeck, G.
Title Measuring farm sustainability and explaining differences in sustainable efficiency Type A1 Journal article
Year 2007 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 62 Issue 1 Pages 149-161
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract A major objective of European agricultural policy is to have a sustainable and efficient farming sector that is applying environmentally-friendly production methods. Policy makers aim to combine a strong economic performance and a sustainable use of natural resources. Therefore, it is important to measure and to assess farm sustainability. For a large dataset of Flemish dairy farms, a valuation method that is based on the concept of opportunity costs is used to calculate and analyze differences among the sample farms with respect to the creation of sustainable value. But more important than measuring the creation of sustainable value is to analyze differences in sustainable efficiency. Therefore, sustainable efficiency measures are calculated and differences in sustainable efficiency are explained. Using panel data, an effect model captures the determinants of sustainable efficiency of the studied farms. The empirical model shows that, in general, larger farms have a higher sustainable efficiency. Also farmer's age and dependency on support payments proved to be determining characteristics for observed differences in sustainable efficiency.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000246021800015 Publication Date 2006-07-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.965 Times cited 101 Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.965; 2007 IF: 1.549
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:136767 Serial 6226
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Author Pour, M.D.; Motiee, N.; Barati, A.A.; Taheri, F.; Azadi, H.; Gebrehiwot, K.; Lebailly, P.; Van Passel, S.; Witlox, F.
Title Impacts of the Hara biosphere reserve on livelihood and welfare in Persian Gulf Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 141 Issue Pages 76-86
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Despite the importance of biosphere reserves in Iran's livelihood and welfare, the economic significance of Hara Biosphere Reserve has never been comprehensively studied. This study examines the current importance of Hara Biosphere Reserve (HBR) in local livelihood and welfare. Using a household survey, data were collected through a questionnaire, key informant interviews and direct observations. Two hundred and forty-four households were randomly selected from 10 villages through proportional sampling. Results showed that non-environmental income was the first driver of the total income, poverty alleviation and narrowing income inequality gap. Park income was the second. The results also showed that excluding park income from total income would significantly increase headcount poverty, widen the poverty gap, and raise the Gini coefficient. Wealthier households had the greatest absolute income from the environment, including forest, fishing and fodder. However, the poorest group had smallest absolute income from these sources. Thus, the study demonstrated that wealthier households are responsible for the overharvesting of environmental resources. Interestingly, the study showed that wealthier households are more dependent on profitable environmental incomes sources while the poorest are more dependent on non-profitable ones. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000410013200008 Publication Date 2017-06-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.965 Times cited 7 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:145602 Serial 6214
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Author Boerema, A.; Van Passel, S.; Meire, P.
Title Cost-effectiveness analysis of ecosystem management with ecosystem services : from theory to practice Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 152 Issue 152 Pages 207-218
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Ecosystem Management
Abstract Integrated ecosystem management is challenging due to many, often conflicting, targets and limited resources to allocate. A valuable and straightforward approach is to integrate an ecosystem services assessment in a cost-effectiveness analysis as method to evaluate and compare the cost-effectiveness of several management scenarios to reach one or more objectives and take into account the potential effects on other ecosystem functions and services. Nevertheless, this method is not commonly used in ecosystem management evaluation but can provide an alternative for the frequently used but often contested cost-benefit analysis (which requires the step of assigning a monetary value to each benefit). The aim of this study is to apply the cost-effectiveness analysis in combination with an ecosystem services assessment on a real case-study (comparing alternative management strategies for estuaries) to derive lessons learned to go from theory to practice. The application of this method for the case-study reveals many remaining challenges such as data availability and knowledge to assess ecosystem effects of management measures. Nevertheless, the analysis demonstrates that this method can be used for making a more integrated evaluation and supporting better-informed management decisions.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000440118700021 Publication Date 2018-06-19
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor (up) 2.965 Times cited 2 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:151754 Serial 6173
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Author Ang, F.; Van Passel, S.; Mathijs, E.
Title An aggregate resource efficiency perspective on sustainability : a sustainable value application to the EU-15 countries Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 71 Issue Pages 99-110
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract The Sustainable Value approach integrates the efficiency with regard to environmental, social and economic resources into a monetary indicator. It gained significant popularity as evidenced by diverse applications at the corporate level. However, its introduction as a measure adhering to the strong sustainability paradigm sparked an ardent debate. This study explores its validity as a macroeconomic strong sustainability measure by applying the Sustainable Value approach to the EU-15 countries. Concretely, we assessed environmental, social and economic resources in combination with the GDP for all EU-15 countries from 1995 to 2006 for three benchmark alternatives. The results show that several countries manage to adequately delink resource use from GDP growth. Furthermore, the remarkable difference in outcome between the national and EU-15 benchmark indicates a possible inefficiency of the current allocation of national resource ceilings imposed by the European institutions. Additionally, by using an effects model we argue that the service degree of the economy and governmental expenditures on social protection and research and development are important determinants of overall resource efficiency. Finally, we sketch out three necessary conditions to link the Sustainable Value approach to the strong sustainability paradigm. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000297396700011 Publication Date 2011-09-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 2.965 Times cited 12 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965; 2011 IF: 2.713
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127560 Serial 6151
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Author Moretti, M.; Vanschoenwinkel, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Accounting for externalities in cross-sectional economic models of climate change impacts Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 185 Issue Pages 107058
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000647544700012 Publication Date 2021-04-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor (up) 2.965 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178955 Serial 6911
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Author Admasu, W.F.; Van Passel, S.; Minale, A.S.; Tsegaye, E.A.; Azadi, H.; Nyssen, J.
Title Take out the farmer: An economic assessment of land expropriation for urban expansion in Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Land Use Policy Abbreviated Journal Land Use Policy
Volume 87 Issue 87 Pages 104038
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000483419100026 Publication Date 2019-06-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0264-8377 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor (up) 3.089 Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes ; The authors acknowledge the Bahir Dar City Administration for sharing its compensation data, Bahir Dar Zuria Wereda Agriculture Office for sharing yield data, and the Industry and Trade Development Office for sharing crop price data. The Institutional University Cooperation with Bahir Dar University (BDU-IUC), funded by the Belgian authorities, through the Flemish Interuniversity Council University Development Cooperation, funded the research activities. We also thank the two anonymous reviewers and the editor of Land Use Policy for all constructive comments and suggestions. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.089
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:162837 Serial 6261
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Author Lizin, S.; Van Passel, S.; Schreurs, E.
Title Farmers' perceived cost of land use restrictions : a simulated purchasing decision using discrete choice experiments Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Land Use Policy Abbreviated Journal Land Use Policy
Volume 46 Issue Pages 115-124
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This paper reports on the findings from discrete choice experiments designed to estimate farmers perceived costs of land use restrictions, i.e. crop restrictions, additional fertilizing restrictions, and usage restrictions, as opposed to having no such restrictions. To this end, hypothetical land purchasing decisions were simulated based on the information about productivity, lot size, distance to other land, driving time to home, land use restrictions, and price. Farmers from the Campine area (Belgium) were invited to participate in the survey as the agricultural land in this region still faces the effects of historical heavy metal contamination resulting in crop restrictions. For identical pieces of land, we estimate the perceived cost, calculated as a change in the consumer surplus due to having a land use restriction, to be about 46,000 /ha for the crop restriction, 50,000 /ha for the usage restriction, and 70,000 /ha for the fertilizing restrictions. Assuming this cost to represent a perpetuity, then with a discount rate of 5% the yearly fixed costs respectively equal about 2300 /ha, 2500 /ha, and 3500 /ha.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000356110500010 Publication Date 2015-03-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0264-8377 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 3.089 Times cited 12 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to thank Boerenbond for their help as well as the farmers for their time in responding to the questionnaire. Additionally, Sebastien Lizin thanks the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for funding his postdoctoral fellowship, allowing him to revise the manuscript. The authors would also like to thank the anonymous reviewers for helping us to improve the quality of our work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.089; 2015 IF: 2.631
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129877 Serial 6203
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Author Admasu, W.F.; Van Passel, S.; Nyssen, J.; Minale, A.S.; Tsegaye, E.A.
Title Eliciting farmers' preferences and willingness to pay for land use attributes in Northwest Ethiopia : a discrete choice experiment study Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Land Use Policy Abbreviated Journal Land Use Policy
Volume 109 Issue Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This study investigates farmers' preferences and willingness to pay for cropland attributes in Bahir Dar, north-west Ethiopia. A choice experiment is used to elicit farmers' preferences between different land use attributes, including a monetary attribute. The study was conducted in the croplands that are threatened by land expro-priation for urban expansion. A survey was undertaken with 144 farmers in four rural kebeles surrounding the city (Addis Alem, Weramit, Wereb and Zenzelima). In the survey, respondents were provided with hypothetical land purchasing decisions, with three alternatives (i.e., two hypothetical parcels and an opt-out option). A choice experiment was undertaken to measure farmers' interest in different types of croplands, which varies with respect to irrigability, number of trees per ha, soil erosion resistance and water holding capacity of the cropland. Estimation of two mixed logit models was carried out. The estimation results show that, although the farmers did not show strong preferences for each attribute of the cropland, many farmers in the area showed interest in the proposed alternative croplands. Farmers show more interest for the land that is irrigable, gentle slope and with medium water holding capacity. The results also indicate that farmers assign highest marginal willingness to pay (MWTP) (79.01 ETB per square meter) for irrigated land, followed by medium water holding capacity with MWTP of 52.13 ETB per square meter. We believe that the results of this study would help land use policy and decision makers in the study area to consider the various attributes of cropland in land use planning, including land expropriation programs, which assures the sustainability of ecosystem services.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000702844000009 Publication Date 2021-07-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0264-8377 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor (up) 3.089 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.089
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:182489 Serial 6921
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Author Van Passel, S.; Meul, M.
Title Multilevel and multi-user sustainability assessment of farming systems Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Environmental Impact Assessment Review Abbreviated Journal Environ Impact Asses
Volume 32 Issue 1 Pages 170-180
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology
Abstract Sustainability assessment is needed to build sustainable farming systems. A broad range of sustainability concepts, methodologies and applications already exists. They differ in level, focus, orientation, measurement, scale, presentation and intended end-users. In this paper we illustrate that a smart combination of existing methods with different levels of application can make sustainability assessment more profound, and that it can broaden the insights of different end-user groups. An overview of sustainability assessment tools on different levels and for different end-users shows the complementarities and the opportunities of using different methods. In a case-study, a combination of the sustainable value approach (SVA) and MOTIFS is used to perform a sustainability evaluation of farming systems in Flanders. SVA is used to evaluate sustainability at sector level, and is especially useful to support policy makers, while MOTIFS is used to support and guide farmers towards sustainability at farm level. The combined use of the two methods with complementary goals can widen the insights of both farmers and policy makers, without losing the particularities of the different approaches. To stimulate and support further research and applications, we propose guidelines for multilevel and multi-user sustainability assessments.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000297874000020 Publication Date 2011-09-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0195-9255 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 3.094 Times cited 49 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.094; 2012 IF: 1.851
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:94186 Serial 6231
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Author Hoogmartens, R.; Van Passel, S.; Van Acker, K.; Dubois, M.
Title Bridging the gap between LCA, LCC and CBA as sustainability assessment tools Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Environmental Impact Assessment Review Abbreviated Journal Environ Impact Asses
Volume 48 Issue Pages 27-33
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000340141900004 Publication Date 2014-05-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0195-9255 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 3.094 Times cited 93 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.094; 2014 IF: 2.400
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127542 Serial 6163
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Author Maes, D.; Van Passel, S.
Title Advantages and limitations of exergy indicators to assess sustainability of bioenergy and biobased materials Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Environmental Impact Assessment Review Abbreviated Journal Environ Impact Asses
Volume 45 Issue Pages 19-29
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
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.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000331924600003 Publication Date 2013-12-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0195-9255 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 3.094 Times cited 18 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.094; 2014 IF: 2.400
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127545 Serial 6147
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Author Peeters, M.; Compernolle, T.; Van Passel, S.
Title Influence of information provided at the moment of a fire alarm on the choice of exit Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Fire Safety Journal Abbreviated Journal Fire Safety J
Volume 117 Issue Pages 103221-103228
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Center for Oncological Research (CORE)
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.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000579650800011 Publication Date 2020-09-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0379-7112 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 3.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.1; 2020 IF: 1.165
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:175125 Serial 6929
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Author Annys, S.; Van Passel, S.; Dessein, J.; Ghebreyohannes, T.; Adgo, E.; Nyssen, J.
Title Small-scale irrigation expansion along the dam-regulated Tekeze River in Northern Ethiopia Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication International Journal Of Water Resources Development Abbreviated Journal Int J Water Resour D
Volume Issue Pages 1-22
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Based on extensive field information, farmer-led small-scale irrigation systems along the dam-regulated Tekeze River is investigated and the likelihood of future irrigation expansion within the area with modelled potential is discussed, considering facilitating and hampering factors. Due to dam-induced hydrologic alterations, downstream socio-ecological systems have strongly transformed as the irrigated area has quadrupled and the post-dam potential for perennial crop cultivation has attracted numerous migrant investors to the area, inducing inequalities but also providing opportunities. Future dam construction should involve tailored policy interventions to facilitate irrigation expansion, while safeguarding equal and sustainable access to water and land.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000569995600001 Publication Date 2020-09-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0790-0627 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 3.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.1; 2020 IF: 2.088
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:171952 Serial 6943
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Author Teleshkan, E.; Van Schoubroeck, S.; Spiller, M.; Van Passel, S.
Title Assessing policy impacts on nutrient circularity : a comprehensive review Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Nutrient cycling in agroecosystems Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-15
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Nutrient circularity is an emerging concept that seeks to address the environmental problems and nutrient losses caused by agriculture and food consumption. The implementation of circular nutrient technologies and practices (CNTPs), that recover, reuse, and recycle nutrients from agricultural and urban waste is an important policy objective. Yet, which policies govern the adoption of CNTPs is not well defined. This study presents the first systematic review of impact evaluations of policy measures that aim to improve nutrient circularity regulating components of the biological cycle of the circular economy, particularly focusing on bioaccessible nutrients. The key CNTPs that were subject to existing impact evaluations were identified. CNTPs were categorized into nutrient circularity themes, with manure management emerging as a prominent focus. The reviewed studies implemented several methods to assess the impacts of policies on various dependent variables, associated with nutrient circularity. Economic simulation models and linear programming were the most prevalent methods for impact evaluation. Policy measures were labeled as either enabling or not-enabling nutrient circularity based on whether they sufficiently promoted nutrient circularity through facilitating the adoption of CNTPs, and controlling for soil, water and air health, preventing its contamination. It is concluded that incentive policies, harmonizing market support, tax incentives, and technological advancements, as well as coherence of local, national and cross-country legislation prove indispensable in steering the economic feasibility and sustainability of CNTPs, offering a promising avenue for progress and a transformative shift towards nutrient circularity.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001175764500001 Publication Date 2024-02-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-1314; 1573-0867 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor (up) 3.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.1; 2024 IF: 1.843
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204250 Serial 9185
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Author Fitawok, M.B.; Derudder, B.; Minale, A.S.; Van Passel, S.; Adgo, E.; Nyssen, J.
Title Stakeholder perspectives on farmers' resistance towards urban land-use changes in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Journal of land use science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 18 Issue 1 Pages 25-38
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Owing to growing uncontrolled land-use change and urban expansion, farmers in urban fringes are struggling to sustain their livelihood. Farmers have been expressing their dissatisfaction at different times. This study analyzes the stakeholders' perspectives on the causes and outcomes of farmers' resistance to land-use change and urban expansion processes by zooming in on Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. The paper is based on focus group discussions with farmers in the neighboring villages, local agricultural extension experts, and, subsequently, key informant interviews of local government officials. Juxtaposing farmers' and local experts' positions reveals that inadequate compensations during land expropriation, lack of good governance in the urban expansion process, and inaccessibility of infrastructures are primary reasons for the farmers' struggle against urban expansion in the urban fringes. This study provides insights into the consequences of unplanned urban development challenges and may inform research and policymaking on sustainable urban development in the area and beyond.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000936397600001 Publication Date 2023-02-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1747-423x; 1747-4248 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 3.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.2; 2023 IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:195109 Serial 7368
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Author Witters, N.; Mendelsohn, R.; Van Passel, S.; Van Slycken, S.; Weyens, N.; Schreurs, E.; Meers, E.; Tack, F.; Vanheusden, B.; Vangronsveld, J.
Title Phytoremediation, a sustainable remediation technology? 2 : economic assessment of CO2 abatement through the use of phytoremediation crops for renewable energy production Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal Biomass Bioenerg
Volume 39 Issue Pages 470-477
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Phytoremediation could be a sustainable remediation alternative for conventional remediation technologies. However, its implementation on a commercial scale remains disappointing. To emphasize its sustainability, this paper examines whether and how the potential economic benefit of CO2 abatement for different crops used for phytoremediation or sustainable land management purposes could promote phytotechnologies. Our analysis is based on a case study in the Campine region, where agricultural soils are contaminated with mainly cadmium. We use Life Cycle Analysis to show for the most relevant crops (willow (Salix spp), energy maize (Zea mays), and rapeseed (Brassica napus)), that phytoremediation, used for renewable energy production, could abate CO2. Converting this in economic numbers through the Marginal Abatement Cost of CO2 ( 20 ton−1) we can integrate this in the economic analysis to compare phytoremediation crops among each other, and phytoremediation with conventional technologies. The external benefit of CO2 abatement when using phytoremediation crops for land management ranges between 55 and 501 per hectare. The purpose of these calculations is not to calculate a subsidy for phytoremediation. There is no reason why one would prefer phytoremediation crops for renewable energy production over normal biomass. Moreover, subsidies for renewable energy already exist. Therefore, we should not integrate these numbers in the economic analysis again. However, these numbers could contribute to making explicit the competitive advantage of phytoremediation compared to conventional remediation technologies, but also add to a more sustainably funded decision on which crop should be grown on contaminated land.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000302829900054 Publication Date 2011-12-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0961-9534 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 3.219 Times cited 38 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.219; 2012 IF: 2.975
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129863 Serial 6236
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Author Maes, D.; Van Passel, S.
Title Effective bioeconomy policies for the uptake of innovative technologies under resource constraints Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal Biomass Bioenerg
Volume 120 Issue 120 Pages 91-106
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The bioeconomy is a shared vision for a future European industry entirely based on organic matter. Authorities support this technological development with subsidies and policies stimulating R&D. One major limitation for the bioeconomy is that R&D and industrial growth require the continuous availability of biomass as a primary resource. This resource dependence is already present during the formative years of new biobased innovations and influences the pilot and demonstration phase of the development. Traditionally, it is assumed that public support for pilot and demonstration initiatives may overcome this hurdle. In this paper, we investigate how this resource constraint limits the effectiveness of bioeconomy policies. The future development of the biobased sector is simulated including the inherent dependence of industrial activity on biomass. We simulate the future growth and technological diversity of an emerging biotechnological sector: the sector of manure transformation in Belgium. The paper reports the evolutions for three policy scenarios. The model explicitly accounts for endogenous innovation and knowledge transfer mechanisms. The results show that policies may have an important impact on the sector structure in the long run, but the sector growth remains ultimately constrained by the availability of inputs. So bioeconomy policies to promote innovation will be less effective, unless mechanisms are included to alleviate the resource constraint.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000454887700011 Publication Date 2018-11-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0961-9534 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 3.219 Times cited 3 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.219
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:156757 Serial 6191
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Author Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.; Pelkmans, L.; Guisson, R.; Swinnen, G.; Schreurs, E.
Title Determining potential locations for biomass valorization using a macro screening approach Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal Biomass Bioenerg
Volume 45 Issue Pages 175-186
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract European policy states that by 2020 at least 20% of final energy consumption should come from renewable energy sources. Biomass as a renewable energy source cannot be disregarded in order to attain this target. In this study a macro screening approach is developed to determine potential locations for biomass valorization in a specified region. The approach consists of five steps: (1) criteria determination, (2) data gathering, (3) weight assignment, (4) final score, (5) spatial representation. The resulting outcome provides a first well balanced scan of the possibilities for energy production using regional biomass. This way policy makers and investors can be supported and motivated to study the possibilities of building energy production plants at specific locations in more detail, which can be described as a 'micro-screening'. In our case study the approach is applied to determine the potentially interesting locations to establish a biomass project. The region has been limited to the forty-four communities in the province of Limburg (Belgium). The macro screening approach has shown to be very effective since the amount of interesting locations has been reduced drastically. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000308384500019 Publication Date 2012-06-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0961-9534 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor (up) 3.219 Times cited 23 Open Access
Notes ; The authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support from INTERREG and the province of Limburg. Special thanks to our colleague Thomas Voets for his effort in making the GIS maps. Moreover, the authors would like to thank the two anonymous reviewers for their valuable comments. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.219; 2012 IF: 2.975
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127554 Serial 6178
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