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	Author	Sauve, G.; Esguerra, J.L.; Laner, D.; Johansson, J.; Svensson, N.; Van Passel, S.; Van Acker, K.
	Title	Integrated early-stage environmental and economic assessment of emerging technologies and its applicability to the case of plasma gasification			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2023	Publication	Journal of cleaner production	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	382	Issue		Pages	134684-14
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	Economic and environmental impact assessments are increasingly being adopted in the design and implementation of emerging systems. However, their emerging nature leads to several assessment challenges that need to be addressed to ensure the validity and usefulness of results in understanding their potential performance and supporting their development. There is the need to (i) account for spatial and temporal variability to allow a broader perspective at an early stage of development; (ii) handle uncertainties to systematically identify the critical factors and their interrelations that drive the results; (iii) integrate environmental and economic results to support sound decision-making based on two sustainability aspects. To address these assessment challenges, this study presents an alternative approach with the following corresponding features: (i) multiple scenario development to conduct an exploratory assessment of the systems under varying conditions and settings, (ii) global sensitivity analysis to identify the main critical factors and their interrelations, and (iii) trade-off and ecoefficiency analysis to integrate the economic and environmental results. The integrated approach is applied to a case study on plasma gasification for solid waste management. The results of the study highlight how the approach allows the identification of the dynamic relations between project settings and surrounding conditions. For example, the choice of gasifying agent largely depends on the background energy system, which dictates the impacts of the process energy requirement and the savings from the substituted energy of the syngas output. Based on these findings, the usefulness and validity of the proposed integrated approach are discussed in terms of how the key assessment challenges are addressed and how it can provide guidance for the development of emerging systems.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	000906664200001	Publication Date	2022-10-22
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	0959-6526	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
	Impact Factor	11.1	Times cited		Open Access	OpenAccess
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 11.1; 2023 IF: 5.715
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:193464			Serial	7361
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Admasu, W.F.; Van Passel, S.; Minale, A.S.; Tsegaye, E.A.; Nyssen, J.
	Title	Nexus between land development and the value of ecosystem services in Ethiopia : a contingent valuation study			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2023	Publication	Environment, development and sustainability	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	1-21
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	In Ethiopia, the state owns all lands within the territory of the country. Cities are incorporating large parcels of land from their surrounding rural agricultural areas through land expropriation. However, these land developments do not consider the nonmarket value of ecosystem services (ES), which is causing a deterioration of the existing ES and reduction on the potential supply of ES from agricultural land. The aim of this study was to estimate the monetary value of nonmarketable ES from the agricultural land using a double-bounded dichotomous choice contingent valuation method. A survey of 524 smallholder farmers was conducted. In the survey, respondents were asked to state their willingness to pay for the improvement of some of the nonmarketable ES: erosion control, air and climate regulation, water regulation, and soil fertility. The estimation was carried out using a bivariate probit model. The results revealed that farmers are willing to pay on average 276 ETB (7.9 USD) per hectare per year for a period of 10 years. We found that individual characteristics such as age, family size, and a recent land expropriation experience adversely affect the willingness to pay by the farmers. On the other hand, individuals with higher income and larger land size are willing to pay more. In general, the study indicated that the nonmarket ES, which are affected by the land expropriation for urban expansion, are valuable for the farmers. Therefore, we recommend that the government consider the value of nonmarketable ES in its land use decisions and hence achieve sustainable land development.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	000907898700002	Publication Date	2023-01-05
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	1387-585x; 1573-2975	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
	Impact Factor	4.9	Times cited		Open Access	Not_Open_Access: Available from 05.01.2024
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 4.9; 2023 IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:193432			Serial	7363
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Buyle, M.; Audenaert, A.; Brusselaers, J.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	Rebound effects following technological advancement? The case of a global shock in ferrochrome supply			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2023	Publication	Journal of cleaner production	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	391	Issue		Pages	136264-11
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	Novel recycling technologies aim at increasing material efficiency by turning former waste products into valuable reclaimed resources. A key question is whether such technologies really reduce primary resource consumption or instead stimulate aggregated market demand. In this study the consequences of a positive shock in ferrochrome supply to the global stainless steel value chain is assessed quantitatively. This new source might be unlocked by technology under development for the recovery of chromium from carbon and stainless steel slags. The aim of this study is to quantitatively assess the income and substitution effects of reclaimed ferrochrome along a part of the stainless steel value chain. The impact of the supply shock is analysed by means of a vector autoregression (VAR), a dynamic model where lagged values of all included variables estimate current state of the system. Additionally, the VAR model is extended to a structural vector autoregression (SVAR) to account for contemporary effects as well. Both the VAR and SVAR model indicate that additional ferrochrome supply leads to an increase in aggregated supply of stainless steel, in combination with a substitution effect between ferrochrome and nickel. The extended SVAR model additionally highlights that contemporaneous effects do play an important role as well to capture the direct rebound effect in the ferrochrome market when working with quarterly data. In other words, an additional supply of reclaimed ferrochrome triggers a complex combination of interactions and consequences, yet it does not necessarily lead to a lower overall material consumption. The main contributions of this paper are the assessment of direct rebound effects of supplying reclaimed metals along the value chain and the demonstration that quantifying the effects of circular strategies is feasible.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	000930165300001	Publication Date	2023-01-30
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	0959-6526	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record
	Impact Factor	11.1	Times cited		Open Access	OpenAccess
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 11.1; 2023 IF: 5.715
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:193569			Serial	7365
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Thomassen, G.; Van Passel, S.; Alaerts, L.; Dewulf, J.
	Title	Retrospective and prospective material flow analysis of the post-consumer plastic packaging waste management system in Flanders			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2022	Publication	Waste Management	Abbreviated Journal	Waste Manage
	Volume	147	Issue		Pages	10-21
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	The post-consumer plastic packaging waste management in Flanders was analyzed by performing a retrospective material flow analysis, covering an extensive period from 1985 to 2019. In addition, a prospective material flow analysis of 32 improvement scenarios was performed, based on expected changes in the waste management system. Mass recovery rates were calculated based on different interpretations of the calculation rules. Moreover, various cascading levels were identified to differentiate between the quality level of the secondary applications. The mass recovery rate including only recycling evolved from a value of 0% in 1985 to 31% in 2019 and could be increased to 36-62% depending on the improvement scenario selected. However, the different interpretations of the calculation rules led to a variation of up to 20 and 41% on this mass recovery rates for the retrospective and prospective analysis, respectively. The introduction of monostream recycling for additional post-consumer plastic packaging flows, such as low-density polyethylene, did not lead to increasing mass recovery rates, if no differentiation for the cascading levels was made. The Belgian recycling target of 65% for 2023 will be challenging if the strictest calculation method needs to be followed or if the improvements in the Flemish postconsumer plastic packaging waste system do not follow the best-case collection scenarios under the given assumptions. To harmonize the calculation and monitoring of these targets, clear calculation rules need to be accompanied with a harmonized monitoring system over the entire waste management system.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	000802961100002	Publication Date	2022-05-17
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	0956-053x	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
	Impact Factor	8.1	Times cited		Open Access	OpenAccess
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 8.1
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:188651			Serial	7367
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	Author	Larraín, M.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	The effect of plastic packaging recycling policy interventions as a complement to extended producer responsibility schemes : a partial equilibrium model			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2022	Publication	Waste Management	Abbreviated Journal	Waste Manage
	Volume	153	Issue		Pages	355-366
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
	Abstract	Extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes have effectively increased the plastic waste that is separately collected. However, due to the structure of the recycling industry, EPR cannot increase recycling rates up to the target levels.Additional policy instruments to increase recycling rates such as recycled content targets, green dot fees bonus for recycled content, recycling targets and taxes on non-recycled plastic packaging have been discussed on a political level in the last years. However, very little research has quantitatively studied the effectiveness of these policy interventions.Using a partial equilibrium model, this paper examines the effectiveness of the implementation of the aforementioned policy instruments to increase recycling rates and the impact on different stakeholders of the value chain: plastic producers, consumers, producer responsibility organization and recyclers.Results show that direct interventions (recycled content standards and recycling targets) have the benefit of decoupling the recycling industry from external markets such as the oil market. They can be a good starting point to increase recycling, but in the long term they may be restricting by not presenting incentives to achieve recycling levels beyond the targeted amounts and by limiting technological innovation. On the contrary, eco-nomic interventions such as a green dot fee bonus or a packaging tax create economic incentives for recycling. However, these incentives are diminished by the lower perceived quality of packaging with higher recycled content levels.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	000868915000004	Publication Date	2022-09-30
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	0956-053x	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
	Impact Factor	8.1	Times cited		Open Access	Not_Open_Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 8.1
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:191367			Serial	7370
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Van Oijstaeijen, W.; Van Passel, S.; Back, P.; Cools, J.
	Title	The politics of green infrastructure : a discrete choice experiment with Flemish local decision-makers			Type	Administrative Services
	Year	2022	Publication	Ecological Economics	Abbreviated Journal	Ecol Econ
	Volume	199	Issue		Pages	107493-18
	Keywords	Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
	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.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	000811715200008	Publication Date	2022-06-08
	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	7	Times cited		Open Access	OpenAccess
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 7
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:189018			Serial	7371
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Bjørnåvold, A.; David, M.; Bohan, D.A.; Gibert, C.; Rousselle, J.-M.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	Why does France not meet its pesticide reduction targets? Farmers' socio-economic trade-offs when adopting agro-ecological practices			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2022	Publication	Ecological Economics	Abbreviated Journal	Ecol Econ
	Volume	198	Issue		Pages	107440-28
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
	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.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	000802083900003	Publication Date	2022-05-07
	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	7	Times cited		Open Access	OpenAccess
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 7
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:188764			Serial	7375
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	Author	Fabri, C.; Tsagris, M.; Moretti, M.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	Adaptation to climate change : the irrigation technology mix of Italian farmers			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2023	Publication	Applied economic perspectives and policy	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	1-22
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	Farmers should increasingly adopt more water‐efficient irrigation technologies—such as drip irrigation—as a result of climate warming and aggravating water scarcity. We analyze how Italian farmers adapt to climate change by changing their irrigation technology mix. We apply a two‐stage econometric model to data from 5876 Italian farms. We find that farmers' initial reaction to increasing temperatures is reducing their surface‐irrigated fractions. When temperatures increase further, farmers switch toward more sprinkler irrigation. Our results show that farmers are not autonomously moving to drip irrigation in response to climate change, suggesting that government incentives are needed to encourage this transition.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	001125360800001	Publication Date	2023-12-16
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	2040-5790	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record
	Impact Factor	5.8	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 5.8; 2023 IF: 1.361
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:201688			Serial	9184
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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	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
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Vasilakou, K.; Nimmegeers, P.; Thomassen, G.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	Assessing the future of second-generation bioethanol by 2030 : a techno-economic assessment integrating technology learning curves			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2023	Publication	Applied energy	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	344	Issue		Pages	121263-15
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
	Abstract	Lignocellulosic biomass is the most abundant source of renewable biomass and is seen as a high-potential replacement for petroleum-based resources. The conversion technologies to advanced biofuels are still at a low maturity level, thus allowing for future cost reductions through technological learning. This fact is barely considered in state-of-the-art techno-economic assessments and a structured approach to account for technological learning in techno-economic assessments is needed. In this study, a framework for techno-economic assessments of advanced biofuels, integrating learning curves, is proposed. As a validation of this framework, the economic feasibility of the valorization of corn stover for the production of second-generation bioethanol in Belgium is studied. Process flowsheet simulations in Aspen Plus are developed, with an emphasis on the comparison of four different pretreatment technologies and two plant capacities at 156 dry kt biomass/y and 667 dry kt/y. The dilute acid pretreatment model of the large-scale biorefinery required the lowest minimum learning rate to reach an economically feasible biorefinery by 2030, being 3.9%, almost half as the one calculated for the smaller scale plant. This learning rate seems to be achievable based on learning rates commonly estimated in literature. We conclude that there is a potential for advanced ethanol production in Belgium under the current state of technology for large-scale biorefineries, which require additional biomass imports, when accounting for future cost reductions through learning
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	001007488700001	Publication Date	2023-05-22
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	0306-2619	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
	Impact Factor	11.2	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 11.2; 2023 IF: 7.182
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:196509			Serial	9186
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Larraín, M.; Billen, P.; Cifuentes, L.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	Economic and environmental implications of policy instruments for the circular economy : a case study for postconsumer polyethylene film recycling in Europe			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Resources, conservation and recycling	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	204	Issue		Pages	107519-11
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
	Abstract	The objective of this paper is to examine the recycling rates for mechanical and thermochemical recycling of postconsumer polyethylene flexible packaging after the implementation of different policy instruments. The study uses a supply chain equilibrium model that incorporates market data and techno-economic assessments to simulate market equilibrium. It combines this with a life cycle assessment to explore the environmental implications of implementing different policy instruments. The results show that instruments that do not target a specific technology are more likely to increase thermochemical recycling than mechanical recycling. Furthermore, a higher recycling rate is not equivalent to a better environmental outcome. An increased collection target that ensures a supply of plastic waste would increase the overall recycling rates the most. A recycled content standard for mechanical recycling would lead to the highest increase in mechanical recycling, with top results for environmental indicators, but low results for economic indicators.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-02-29
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	0921-3449	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor	13.2	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 13.2; 2024 IF: 3.313
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:203485			Serial	9202
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Chekol Zewdie, M.; Moretti, M.; Tenessa, D.B.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	Farmers' preferences and willingness to pay for improved irrigation water supply program : a discrete choice experiment			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2023	Publication	Environment, development and sustainability	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	1-24
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	This study examines smallholder farmers' preferences and willingness to pay for an improved irrigation water supply program in northwest Ethiopia. We employed a discrete choice experiment with five attributes and three levels. Data were collected from randomly selected sample households of both irrigation users and non-users. A total of 379 respondents participated, and a mixed logit model was used to analyze the household-level survey data. The result indicates that to deviate from the business-as-usual scenario, smallholder farmers are willing to pay between 3,228 and 8,327 Ethiopian Birr per hectare of irrigated land. Furthermore, the results showed a strong public preference for access to produce cash crops, followed by irrigation water availability in the dry season, and adequate access to improved farm inputs. The results also provide useful information for policymakers and suggested possibilities for generating finance from farmers to cover the operation and maintenance costs of irrigation schemes. Also, this study result reveals that irrigation development and expansion must be integrated into a comprehensive support package that combines irrigation water with access to improved farm inputs and access to produce cash crops on farmers' farm plots.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	001048896000004	Publication Date	2023-08-14
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	1387-585x; 1573-2975	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
	Impact Factor	4.9	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 4.9; 2023 IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:198283			Serial	9204
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Vasilakou, K.; Nimmegeers, P.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	Geospatial environmental techno-economic assessment of pretreatment technologies for bioethanol production			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2023	Publication	Renewable and sustainable energy reviews	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	187	Issue		Pages	113743-16
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
	Abstract	Second-generation biofuels, starting from lignocellulosic biomass, are considered as a renewable alternative for fossil fuels with lower environmental impact and potentially higher supply and energy security. The economic and environmental performance of second-generation bioethanol production from corn stover in the European Union (EU) is studied, starting in Belgium as base case. A comparative environmental techno-economic assessment has been conducted, with process simulations in Aspen Plus and corn stover availability data in thirteen EU countries to calculate minimum ethanol selling prices (MESP) and Greenhouse gas emissions (GHGe). In this analysis, the emphasis is on the comparison of different pretreatment technologies, namely (i) dilute acid, (ii) alkaline, (iii) steam explosion and (iv) liquid hot water. Dilute acid showed the best economic and environmental performance for the base case scenario. Within the EU, Hungary and Romania presented the lowest MESP for the steam explosion model at 0.39 and 0.43 EUR/L respectively. Poland showed the lowest GHGe, at 0.46 kg CO2eq/L for the alkaline model, mainly due to the avoided product allocation on electricity and its high carbon intensity in the electricity generation sector. The second lowest GHGe were obtained in France for the dilute acid model and are attributed to its low agricultural emissions intensity. This study identifies a location-dependence of the economic and environmental performance of pretreatment technologies, which can be extrapolated from the EU to other large regions around the world and should be taken into consideration by decision-makers.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	001082526000001	Publication Date	2023-09-15
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	1364-0321; 1879-0690	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record
	Impact Factor	15.9	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 15.9; 2023 IF: 8.05
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:198804			Serial	9205
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Vasilakou, K.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.; Nimmegeers, P.
	Title	A Pareto aggregation approach for environmental-economic multi-objective optimization applied on a second-generation bioethanol production model			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Energy conversion and management	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	303	Issue		Pages	118184-11
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
	Abstract	Multi-objective optimization is an important decision-making tool for energy processes, as multiple targets need to be achieved. These objectives are usually conflicting since a single solution cannot be optimal for all objectives, resulting in a set of Pareto-optimal solutions. Multiple indicators might be available to describe a sustainability objective, such as the environmental impact which is commonly evaluated by performing a life cycle assessment. In this study, Pareto aggregation is proposed as a method which employs a novel multi-objective optimization-based approach as an alternative to the classically used aggregation in life cycle assessment. This method identifies conflicting environmental indicators and performs an aggregation among those that require a trade-off. An environmental-economic optimization of a second-generation bioethanol plant is used to illustrate and evaluate the proposed method. Process parameters from a biochemical conversion pathway flowsheet simulation model are chosen as optimization variables. To reduce the computational time, surrogate models, based on artificial neural networks, are used. Out of the eighteen ReCiPe Midpoint environmental indicators, five were identified as conflicting, resulting in an aggregated environmental objective, which was then traded off with the economic objective function, chosen as the levelized cost of ethanol. Comparison with the widely used single-score EcoIndicator99 showed that the Pareto aggregation method can reduce most of the environmental indicators by up to 6.5%. This research provides an insight on non-redundant objective functions, aiming at reducing the dimensionality of multi-objective optimization problems, while taking into consideration decision-makers’ preferences.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	001185718400001	Publication Date	2024-02-10
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	0196-8904; 1879-2227	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record
	Impact Factor	10.4	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 10.4; 2024 IF: 5.589
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:203046			Serial	9216
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	Author	Vermeulen, S.; Cools, J.; Staes, J.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	A review of economic assessments of drought risk reduction approaches in agriculture			Type	Administrative Services
	Year	2023	Publication	Journal of environmental management	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	345	Issue		Pages	118909-118912
	Keywords	Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Economics; Ecosphere; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	Due to climate change, the frequency and intensity of droughts are expected to increase. To improve resilience to droughts, proactive drought management is essential. Economic assessments are typically included to decide on the drought risk-reducing investments to make. The choice of both methods and scope of economic assessments influences the outcome, and thus the investment choice. This paper aims to identify how comprehensively economic assessments are applied in practice. Through a systematic literature review, 14 actual economic assessments are identified and their methods are evaluated based on seven criteria for economic assessments as derived from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The results show that in practice, economic assessments rarely address all criteria. Applying a limited number of criteria reduces the scope and narrows the approach, possibly leading to the underestimation of drought risk reduction approaches’ related benefits. Applying the seven criteria in practice will improve the results of economic assessments of drought risk reduction measures, allowing for optimal investment selection. Based on the different criteria, a Framework for Economic Assessments of Drought Risk-Reducing Applications (FEADRRA) is proposed. Applying the criteria of the framework can support decision-makers in drought risk management and in carrying out the most fitting drought interventions.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	001080044100001	Publication Date	2023-08-31
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	0301-4797	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record
	Impact Factor	8.7	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 8.7; 2023 IF: 4.01
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:199661			Serial	9222
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	Author	Vetters, J.; Thomassen, G.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	Sailing through end-of-life challenges : a comprehensive review for offshore wind			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Renewable and sustainable energy reviews	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	199	Issue		Pages	114486-16
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	Over the past thirty years, European offshore wind farm development surged, yet end-of-life and decommissioning considerations were overshadowed by initial climate and energy security objectives during design and construction. As the first major projects near their final decade, numerous unanswered questions persist. Through a comprehensive literature review, this study identifies, maps, and evaluates challenges across technical, economic, environmental, social, and policy dimensions spanning five end-of-life phases: planning, dismantling, transport and logistics, waste management, and site recovery. Examining 42 publications reveals 46 distinct challenges affecting stakeholders such as the end-of-life supply chain, policy makers, and society. While 33% of the challenges manifested in the technical dimension, 48% of the challenges covered the planning phase. Notably, the economic challenge of vessel cost and availability was raised most often. Less-explored challenges underscore the importance of consideration before the end-of-life phase intensifies. The study illustrates the complex interconnection of numerous end-of-life challenges across phases, dimensions, and disciplines, emphasizing the imperative of addressing bottlenecks in a comprehensive and integrated manner. The results of this study help steering future research, while also improving awareness of challenges for stakeholders, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and industry stakeholders to address imminent challenges through transparent guidelines, data exchange, and circular design principles. The novelty of this study lies in its holistic, multidisciplinary approach, systematic framework for identifying challenges, and critical perspective unveiling interconnectedness.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-05-02
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	1364-0321; 1879-0690	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor	15.9	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 15.9; 2024 IF: 8.05
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205652			Serial	9226
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	Author	Finizola e Silva, M.; Cools, J.; Cools, J.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	A systematic review identifying the drivers and barriers to the adoption of climate-smart agriculture by smallholder farmers in Africa			Type	Administrative Services
	Year	2024	Publication	Frontiers in environmental economics	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	3	Issue		Pages	1356335-14
	Keywords	Administrative Services; A3 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	Climate change impact, food security concerns, and greenhouse gas emissions are pressuring agricultural production systems in developing countries. There is a need for a shift toward sustainable food systems. One of the concepts introduced to drive this shift is climate-smart agriculture (CSA), endorsed by international organizations to address multifaceted challenges. Despite widespread attention and support, the adoption of CSA among African farmers remains low. This systematic literature review aims to shed light on the factors influencing CSA adoption amongst African farmers. Within the articles identified as relevant, over 50 CSA practices and more than 40 factors influencing CSA adoption were distinguished. These influencing factors can be categorized as personal, farm- related, financial, environmental, and informational. The focus of this review is to identify and explain the overall impact (positive, negative, or mixed) of these factors on CSA adoption. Overall, many factors result in mixed effects, only some factors have an unambiguous positive or negative effect on CSA adoption. For instance, educational level emerges as a key personal factor, positively impacting CSA adoption, along with positive influences from farmers’ experience and farm size among farm-related factors. Financial factors reveal distinct patterns, with income from farming and access to credit positively influencing adoption, while off-farm income exhibits a negative effect. Environmental factors, though less researched, indicate positive impacts related to changes in rainfall patterns, temperature, and droughts. Lastly, informational factors consistently exhibit a positive effect on CSA adoption, with training, access to extension, group memberships, climate information, and CSA awareness playing crucial roles. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers seeking to enhance CSA adoption in Africa, offering a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted dynamics at play.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-04-03
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205017			Serial	9233
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	Author	Tschulkow, M.; Pizzol, M.; Compernolle, T.; Van den Bosch, S.; Sels, B.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	The environmental impacts of the lignin-first biorefineries : a consequential life cycle assessment approach			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Resources, conservation and recycling	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	204	Issue		Pages	107466-107469
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
	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.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	001186282000001	Publication Date	2024-02-14
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	0921-3449	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record
	Impact Factor	13.2	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 13.2; 2024 IF: 3.313
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205493			Serial	9234
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	Author	Van Oijstaeijen, W.; Finizola e Silva, M.; Back, P.; Collins, A.; Verheyen, K.; De Beelde, R.; Cools, J.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	The Nature Smart Cities business model : a rapid decision-support and scenario analysis tool to reveal the multi-benefits of green infrastructure investments			Type	Administrative Services
	Year	2023	Publication	Urban forestry & urban greening	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	84	Issue		Pages	127923-14
	Keywords	Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Art; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	Incorporating natural spaces within urban areas has been shown to have multiple benefits. However, despite greening and adaptation strategies at different levels of government, progress remains slow with a lack of easy to use and comprehensive tools identified as key to overcoming this. This paper presents a co-designed tool with academic and local authority partners to demonstrate the ecosystem service benefits of small-scale urban green infrastructure projects. Through the tool, users can readily assess the impact of green infrastructure investments on the delivery of a selection of ecosystem services in the early stages of a project. Furthermore, the tool provides a standardised assessment of cultural ecosystem services' contributions, as well as offering a method to score spatial designs on the impact on habitat for biodiversity. Use of the tool is demonstrated using a pilot study in Kapelle, the Netherlands. The results set out an overview of the impacts of the spatial design on estimated ecosystem service delivery. They also show the tool's potential to add value in early project stages and as a planning and design tool, helping to maximise the benefits that can be achieved through green infrastructure design. Complementing these arguments with ball-park estimations on green infrastructure costs, the Nature Smart Cities Business Model aims to offer public sector officers the means to create a business case for green infrastructure measures, facilitating the translation from strategies to actual plans, thus benefitting green infrastructure implementation in the public realm.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	000982199900001	Publication Date	2023-04-11
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	1618-8667	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
	Impact Factor	6.4	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 6.4; 2023 IF: 2.113
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:196748			Serial	9235
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	Author	Gebremariam, Y.A.; Dessein, J.; Wondimagegnhu, B.A.; Breusers, M.; Lenaerts, L.; Adgo, E.; Van Passel, S.; Minale, A.S.; Nyssen, J.
	Title	Undoing the development army : a paradigm shift from transfer of technology to agricultural innovation system in Ethiopian extension			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2023	Publication	Environment, development and sustainability	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	1-27
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	Appropriate use of agricultural technologies and diversifying the farming activities is critical to addressing food security problems in Africa, including Ethiopia. The country is experimenting with the new Agricultural Innovation System (AIS) approach alongside the well-established Transfer of Technology (ToT) approach. This paper analyzes the gaps between policy discourses (as reflected in policy documents and strategic orientation documents) and extension practices (as reflected in the daily exchanges between farmers and the frontline staff of the Ethiopian extension system). It provides insights into the challenges faced and emphasizes the need for better coordination between policy formulation and implementation to enhance extension services. Policymakers, practitioners, and researchers can benefit from the valuable perspectives the findings offer. The study contributes to understanding the relationship between policy discourses and extension practices, and its implications can inform policy design and implementation in similar contexts. A qualitative research approach was deployed to analyze policy discourse and practice. Data were collected in Fogera, a district in Northwest Ethiopia, between August 2018 and February 2019. The data for the paper were obtained from 23 Focus Group Discussions conducted with men and women. 13 Informant Interviews (KIIs) were also carried out with personnel at different levels of government agricultural services and departments. Transcripts of recordings of the Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were analyzed using a deductive approach. The study focuses on rice crops in the Fogera district, which are crucial for food security and reducing poverty. Although the geographic area is limited, the results can be used to improve the extension system in other areas facing similar challenges. Specifically, the study suggests switching from the traditional transfer of technology approach to the agricultural innovation system approach. Furthermore, the study's techniques, such as qualitative interviews, may have limitations and not fully capture the intricacies of policy and extension practices. The findings demonstrate that, although the policy documents strongly adhere to agricultural innovation system principles, top-down transfer of technology approaches continues to dominate in practice. Moreover, we have found potential discrepancies between the training content delivered and the specific needs of smallholder farmers. Practically, prescriptive systems are still used because agricultural innovation system approaches are not well understood by the Extension Agents. To realize a genuine agricultural innovation system, Ethiopia's extension apparatus should move forward with building committed and robust relationships between farmers, extension agents, researchers, private sectors, and non-governmental organizations. To this end, more research, enhanced training, and improved institutions are needed on what genuine agricultural innovation system could look like at the grass-roots level. This also includes understanding the roles that different actors within Ethiopia's development army should assume how a multi-actor policy dialogue can be organized.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	001126500500006	Publication Date	2023-12-19
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	1387-585x; 1573-2975	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record
	Impact Factor	4.9	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 4.9; 2023 IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:202804			Serial	9238
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	Author	Borms, L.; Multani, M.; Bachus, K.; Dams, Y.; Brusselaers, J.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	Using natural language processing to monitor circular activities and employment			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Sustainable Production and Consumption	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	46	Issue		Pages	42-53
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy
	Abstract	In Europe, NACE codes are used for the official classification of sectors, however, the circular economy is not sufficiently captured in this classification. Therefore, this paper improves previous attempts for defining circular activities and jobs by web scraping techniques applied to each company in Belgium. We analyze their first, second, and third official NACE codes and compare these to the NACE codes they should have been allocated to according to the web scraping data. Subsequently, we calculate circularity scores for every sector to construct an indicator for the number of circular companies and jobs. The results show that the number of circular companies is lower than the baseline from official statistics when we only consider the companies' first and main NACE code. The estimates are higher than the baseline when we also take the second and third NACE codes into account and the estimated number of circular jobs is far higher than the baseline. This research upgrades previous classifications of circular sectors and demonstrates how web scraping and novel data might improve our understanding and capacity to build data. Based on the results in this paper, we recommend a uniform data collection such as reporting standards, and an inclusion of all circular strategies in sectoral classifications.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	001198897900001	Publication Date	2024-02-15
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	2352-5509	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record
	Impact Factor	12.1	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 12.1; 2024 IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:204552			Serial	9241
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	Author	Borms, L.; Van Opstal, W.; Brusselaers, J.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	The working future : an analysis of skills needed by circular startups			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2023	Publication	Journal of cleaner production	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	409	Issue		Pages	137261-137269
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	Aside from potential environmental benefits, the implementation of circular economy principles in businesses can have merits for the labour market. The current unemployment in several regions of Europe and the qualitative mismatch between supply and demand could be countered by reskilling the labour force to adjust supply and demand to one another for increased reuse, repair, or recycling, among others. This study uses interviews to increase the focus of the research question and uses survey data to perform an ordered probit regression analysis to sketch the current and future landscape of startups’ skills in Flanders (Belgium), and to analyse the relationship between circular strategies and different types of skills. The results show that design to lower material use increases the need for transport and logistics skills, digitalisation increases the need for R&D and IT skills, and the recuperation of waste requires technical knowledge. Furthermore, gender, age, and experience of the entrepreneur influence the needed skills. The paper probed for policy recommendations for the uptake of circular strategies and recommendations for future research. The most asked policy measures by the respondents are innovation and collaboration support (subsidies), fiscal measures that support circular goods and services, and public procurement for circular goods and services. This research is of relevance for several stakeholders, such as startup ecosystems, sector organisations, policy makers in innovation policy and labour market policy, and educational institutions.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos	000988763400001	Publication Date	2023-04-21
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	0959-6526	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
	Impact Factor	11.1	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 11.1; 2023 IF: 5.715
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:195706			Serial	9246
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