| Records |
| Author |
Ang, F.; Van Passel, S. |
| Title |
Beyond the environmentalist's paradox and the debate on weak versus strong sustainability |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2012 |
Publication |
Bioscience |
Abbreviated Journal |
Bioscience |
| Volume |
62 |
Issue |
3 |
Pages |
251-259 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM) |
| Abstract |
Environmentalists generally argue that ecological damage will (eventually) lead to declines in human well-being. From this perspective, the recent introduction of the “environmentalist's paradox” in BioScience by Raudsepp-Hearne and colleagues (2010) is particularly significant. In essence, Raudsepp-Hearne and colleagues (2010) claimed that although ecosystem services have been degraded, human well-being-paradoxically-has increased. In this article, we show that this debate is in fact rooted in a broader discussion on weak sustainability versus strong sustainability (the substitutability of human-made capital for natural capital). We warn against the reductive nature of focusing only on a stock flow framework in which a natural-capital stock produces ecosystem services. Concretely, we recommend a holistic approach in which the complexity, irreversibility, uncertainty, and ethical predicaments intrinsic to the natural environment and its connections to humanity are also considered. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
|
Wos |
000301561900008 |
Publication Date  |
2012-03-07 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0006-3568 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
5.378 |
Times cited |
17 |
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
; We thank three anonymous reviewers for their helpful comments. This aiticle has benefited considerably from interesting discussions (especially with Liesbet Vranken) at the 13th Belgian PhD Symposium of Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics, Brussels, on 27 April 2011. We are grateful for the financial support of the European Fund for Regional Development project 475, Closing the Circle. ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 5.378; 2012 IF: 4.739 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:127559 |
Serial |
6160 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Maes, D.; Van Passel, S. |
| Title |
Interference of regional support policies on the economic and environmental performance of a hybrid cogeneration-solar panel energy system |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2012 |
Publication |
Energy Policy |
Abbreviated Journal |
Energ Policy |
| Volume |
42 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
670-680 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM) |
| Abstract |
This paper assesses unintentional interference between different public policies promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy. The paper develops a methodology to study the interference by analysing the economic and technical behaviour of a hybrid energy system. The hybrid energy system in this case consists of an existing cogeneration unit extended with a new installation of thermal solar panels. This puts two complementary heating technologies in juxtaposition. The two technologies are supported with distinct regional support instruments in each region. The design and operation of the energy system is optimised from the point of view of the investor according to the different support instruments. The optimal configuration is analysed as well as its effect on reduced CO2-emissions during the lifetime of the project. The methodology is applied to a case-study for two neighbouring regions, the Netherlands and Flanders. The policies in the Netherlands show a beneficial synergy. In Flanders, the hybrid energy system is not interesting, indicating unbalanced high support for cogeneration in this case. From the point of view of the authorities, a more balanced regional policy as in the Netherlands provides a larger CO2-emission reduction for a smaller cost. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
|
| Language |
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Wos |
000301616000066 |
Publication Date |
2012-01-14 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0301-4215; 1873-6777 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
4.14 |
Times cited |
4 |
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
; The authors would especially like to thank Davy Duelen for the excellent case-study and data collection that enabled the present paper. The help and information provided by Pierre Gijsen also made the detailed assessment possible. We are also indebted to two anonymous reviewers, whose remarks strongly improved the paper. This project has been financed by the Impulse-project of the tUL (transnational University Limburg). ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 4.14; 2012 IF: 2.743 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:127558 |
Serial |
6220 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Meul, M.; Van Passel, S.; Fremaut, D.; Haesaert, G. |
| Title |
Higher sustainability performance of intensive grazing versus zero-grazing dairy systems |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2012 |
Publication |
Agronomy For Sustainable Development |
Abbreviated Journal |
Agron Sustain Dev |
| Volume |
32 |
Issue |
3 |
Pages |
629-638 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM) |
| Abstract |
Although grazing of dairy cows is an integral part of dairy farming in many European countries, farmers today more often choose for zero-grazing systems, where cows are housed throughout the year. Some studies already compared grazing and zero-grazing systems for specific issues such as labor efficiency, environmental impact, or animal welfare. In our study, we perform a more integrated evaluation, considering relevant ecological, economic, and social aspects. This allows for a balanced and more complete comparison of the sustainability performance of the two production methods. We evaluated ten intensive grazing and ten zero-grazing specialized Flemish dairy farms on the use of nutrients and energy, productivity and profitability, labor input, and animal welfare. In addition, we put special effort in formulating useful management advice for farmers. Therefore, we combined a detailed analysis of the sustainability indicators with an intensive interaction and discussion with farmers and farm advisors. Results show that, on average, the zero-grazing farms performed significantly worse from an ecological and economic point of view. This fact is explained mainly due to a less efficient use of concentrates and byproducts. Social sustainability performance did not differ significantly between the two groups. As a result, the integrated sustainability performance was significantly lower for the zero-grazing group. This finding shows that a further shift from intensive grazing to zero-grazing can move dairy farming in Flanders further away from sustainability. An important advice to improve the ecological and economic performance of zero-grazing farms is to optimize cows' rations to include more forages and optimize forage production and use. More detailed site- and case-specific management advice for farmers of both groups was provided during a discussion meeting. We consider this an essential additional step to any sustainability evaluation, since progress can only be made when monitoring results are translated into practical measures. |
| Address |
|
| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
|
Wos |
000306061800003 |
Publication Date |
2012-01-11 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
1774-0746 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
4.101 |
Times cited |
26 |
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
; ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 4.101; 2012 IF: 3.573 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:127557 |
Serial |
6209 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
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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 |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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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 |
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 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
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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 |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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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 |
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 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| 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 |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| 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 |
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 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
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| |
| Author |
Ang, F.; Van Passel, S. |
| Title |
The sustainable value approach : a clarifying and constructive comment |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2010 |
Publication |
Ecological Economics |
Abbreviated Journal |
Ecol Econ |
| Volume |
69 |
Issue |
12 |
Pages |
2303-2306 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics |
| Abstract |
Recently, the original benchmarking methodology of the Sustainable Value approach became subjected to serious debate. While Kuosmanen and Kuosmanen (2009b) critically question its validity introducing productive efficiency theory, Figge and Hahn (2009) put forward that the implementation of productive efficiency theory severely conflicts with the original financial economics perspective of the Sustainable Value approach. We argue that the debate is very confusing because the original Sustainable Value approach presents two largely incompatible objectives. Nevertheless, we maintain that both ways of benchmarking could provide useful and moreover complementary insights. If one intends to present the overall resource efficiency of the firm from the investor's viewpoint, we recommend the original benchmarking methodology. If one on the other hand aspires to create a prescriptive tool setting up some sort of reallocation scheme, we advocate implementation of the productive efficiency theory. Although the discussion on benchmark application is certainly substantial, we should avoid the debate to become accordingly narrowed. Next to the benchmark concern, we see several other challenges considering the development of the Sustainable Value approach: (1) a more systematic resource selection, (2) the inclusion of the value chain and (3) additional analyses related to policy in order to increase interpretative power. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
000283700900001 |
Publication Date |
2010-07-30 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0921-8009; 1873-6106 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
2.965 |
Times cited |
18 |
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
; ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 2.965; 2010 IF: 2.754 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:136760 |
Serial |
6258 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Van Passel, S. |
| Title |
Food miles to assess sustainability : a revision |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2013 |
Publication |
Sustainable Development |
Abbreviated Journal |
Sustain Dev |
| Volume |
21 |
Issue |
1 |
Pages |
1-17 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM) |
| Abstract |
Sustainability assessment is an essential process in our aim to reach a more sustainable production and consumption pattern. This research revises the food miles concept as a guiding tool to assess sustainability. Food miles measure the distance that food travels from where it is grown or raised to where it is consumed. Three different concepts to assess sustainability are described: (i) food miles, (ii) enhanced food miles, (iii) food chain sustainability. An illustrative case study shows that there is a strong danger of oversimplification when using food miles as an assessment tool. Second, the food miles concept can be enhanced with all relevant transport externalities taking into account different transport modes and transport (in)efficiency. Third, all relevant economic, social, and ecological aspects should be taken into account. Besides transport externalities, also externalities caused by food production, food packaging, food marketing, and food consumption should be incorporated. Moreover, the trade-off with development goals cannot be neglected. As a consequence, there is a strong danger of incommensurability as the result of different sustainability model assumptions and unclear system boundaries. Nevertheless, sustainability assessment can enrich policy making and support tailored policy measures to improve food chain sustainability. Copyright (c) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
000314187900001 |
Publication Date |
2010-07-15 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0968-0802 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
2.167 |
Times cited |
17 |
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
; ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 2.167; 2013 IF: 1.692 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:127553 |
Serial |
6204 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
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| |
| Author |
Van Meensel, J.; Lauwers, L.; Van Huylenbroeck, G.; Van Passel, S. |
| Title |
Comparing frontier methods for economic-environmental trade-off analysis |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2010 |
Publication |
European Journal Of Operational Research |
Abbreviated Journal |
Eur J Oper Res |
| Volume |
207 |
Issue |
2 |
Pages |
1027-1040 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics |
| Abstract |
This paper uses a mechanistic frontier approach as a reference to evaluate the ability of conventional parametric (SFA) and non-parametric (DEA) frontier approaches for analyzing economicenvironmental trade-offs. Conventional frontier approaches are environmentally adjusted through incorporating the materials balance principle. The analysis is worked out for the Flemish pig finishing case, which is both representative and didactic. Results show that, on average, SFA and DEA yield adequate economicenvironmental trade-offs. Both methods are good estimators for technical efficiency. Cost allocative and environmental allocative efficiency scores are less robust, due to the well-known methodological advantages and disadvantages of SFA and DEA. For particular firms, SFA, DEA and the mechanistic approach may yield different economicenvironmental trade-offs. One has therefore to be careful when using conventional frontier approaches for firm-specific decision support. The mechanistic approach allows for optimizing performances per average present finisher, which is the production unit in pig finishing. Conventional frontier methods do not allow for this optimization since the number of average present finishers varies along the production functions. Since the mechanistic production function is based on underlying growth, feed uptake and mortality functions, additional firm-specific indicators can also be calculated at each point of the production function. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
000281107200045 |
Publication Date |
2010-05-25 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0377-2217 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
3.297 |
Times cited |
18 |
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
; This research is funded by the Institute for the Promotion of Innovation by Science and Technology in Flanders (IWT Vlaanderen). ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 3.297; 2010 IF: 2.159 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:136761 |
Serial |
6171 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
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| |
| Author |
Compernolle, T.; Witters, N.; Van Passel, S.; Thewys, T. |
| Title |
Analyzing a self-managed CHP system for greenhouse cultivation as a profitable way to reduce CO2-emissions |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2011 |
Publication |
Energy |
Abbreviated Journal |
Energy |
| Volume |
36 |
Issue |
4 |
Pages |
1940-1947 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology |
| Abstract |
To counter global warming, a transition to a low-carbon economy is needed. The greenhouse sector can contribute by installing Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, known for their excellent energy efficiency. Due to the recent European liberalization of the energy market, glass horticulturists have the opportunity to sell excess electricity to the market and by tailored policy and support measures, regional governments can fill the lack of technical and economic knowledge, causing initial resistance. This research investigates the economic and environmental opportunities using two detailed cases applying a self managed cogeneration system. The Net Present Value is calculated to investigate the economic feasibility. The Primary Energy Saving, the CO2 Emission Reduction indicator and an Emission Balance are applied to quantify the environmental impact. The results demonstrate that a self-managed CHP system is economic viable and that CO2 emissions are reduced. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
000289605900014 |
Publication Date |
2010-04-03 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0360-5442 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
4.52 |
Times cited |
19 |
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
; ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 4.52; 2011 IF: 3.487 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:127561 |
Serial |
6152 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
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| |
| Author |
Van Passel, S.; Van Huylenbroeck, G.; Lauwers, L.; Mathijs, E. |
| Title |
Sustainable value assessment of farms using frontier efficiency benchmarks |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2009 |
Publication |
Journal Of Environmental Management |
Abbreviated Journal |
J Environ Manage |
| Volume |
90 |
Issue |
10 |
Pages |
3057-3069 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics |
| Abstract |
Appropriate assessment of firm sustainability facilitates actor-driven processes towards sustainable development. The methodology in this paper builds further on two proven methodologies for the assessment of sustainability performance: it combines the sustainable value approach with frontier efficiency benchmarks. The sustainable value methodology tries to relate firm performance to the use of different resources. This approach assesses contributions to corporate sustainability by comparing firm resource productivity with the resource productivity of a benchmark, and this for all resources considered. The efficiency is calculated by estimating the production frontier indicating the maximum feasible production possibilities. In this research, the sustainable value approach is combined with efficiency analysis methods to benchmark sustainability assessment. In this way, the production theoretical underpinnings of efficiency analysis enrich the sustainable value approach. The methodology is presented using two different functional forms: the CobbDouglas and the translog functional forms. The simplicity of the CobbDouglas functional form as benchmark is very attractive but it lacks flexibility. The translog functional form is more flexible but has the disadvantage that it requires a lot of data to avoid estimation problems. Using frontier methods for deriving firm specific benchmarks has the advantage that the particular situation of each company is taken into account when assessing sustainability. Finally, we showed that the methodology can be used as an integrative sustainability assessment tool for policy measures. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
|
Wos |
000269022800013 |
Publication Date |
2009-06-24 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0301-4797 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
4.01 |
Times cited |
41 |
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 4.01; 2009 IF: 2.367 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:136762 |
Serial |
6259 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
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| |
| Author |
Meul, M.; Van Passel, S.; Nevens, F.; Dessein, J.; Rogge, E.; Mulier, A.; Van Hauwermeiren, A. |
| Title |
MOTIFS : a monitoring tool for integrated farm sustainability |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2008 |
Publication |
Agronomy For Sustainable Development |
Abbreviated Journal |
Agron Sustain Dev |
| Volume |
28 |
Issue |
2 |
Pages |
321-332 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics |
| Abstract |
Indicator-based monitoring tools are frequently applied for sustainability assessments, also in agriculture. However, many indicators focus on a rather restricted number of sustainability aspects such as economy or ecology. Moreover the choice of the indicator is rarely explained. The aim of our study was to develop an indicator-based monitoring tool for integrated farm sustainability – i.e. taking into account economic and ecological and social aspects – based on a supported vision of sustainable agriculture and using a set of relevant indicators. Hereby, specific attention was paid to aspects of communication and user-friendliness. Four methodological steps were considered: (i) translating the major principles of a supported vision of sustainable Flemish agriculture into concrete and relevant themes; (ii) designing indicators to monitor progress towards sustainability for each of those themes; (iii) aggregating the indicators into an integrated farm sustainability monitoring tool and (iv) applying the monitoring tool on a practical farm, as a first attempt at end-use validation. Stakeholder participation and expert consulting played an important part in each of these methodological steps. As a case study, the methodology was applied to Flemish dairy farms. As a result, we developed MOTIFS, a user-friendly and strongly communicative indicator-based monitoring tool that allows the measurement of progress towards integrated sustainable dairy farming systems and fits within a well-founded methodological framework. MOTIFS is based on the equality of the economic, ecological and social sustainability dimensions, and this equality is inherently built into the system. Through the applied methodology, we founded the selected themes and indicators and we avoided using indicators that are not relevant to the problem at hand. |
| Address |
|
| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
|
| Publisher |
|
Place of Publication |
|
Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
000256235500018 |
Publication Date |
2008-03-21 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
1774-0746 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
4.101 |
Times cited |
97 |
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 4.101; 2008 IF: 1.649 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:136763 |
Serial |
6229 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Nevens, F.; Dessein, J.; Meul, M.; Rogge, E.; Verbruggen, I.; Mulier, A.; Van Passel, S.; Lepoutre, J.; Hongenaert, M. |
| Title |
'On tomorrow's grounds' : Flemish agriculture in 2030: a case of participatory translation of sustainability principles into a vision for the future |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2008 |
Publication |
Journal Of Cleaner Production |
Abbreviated Journal |
J Clean Prod |
| Volume |
16 |
Issue |
10 |
Pages |
1062-1070 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics |
| Abstract |
In Flanders (Belgium) there is an obvious lack of clear long-term vision on sustainable development, for society as a whole as well as for the individual sectors of (economic) activity. In this paper we present the first results of a process of vision development for Flemish agriculture, called On tomorrow's grounds. The initiative, taken by Stedula (the Flemish Policy Research Centre for Sustainable Agriculture), shows that discovering core values, stating a concise mission, establishing guiding core principles and working with vivid descriptions of envisaged future systems seem indispensable elements to develop a vision that inspires and mobilizes people and that, eventually, stands a chance of being anchored in the sector's or organisation's culture. The principal method of working of the project was a multi-stakeholder process (MSP) focussed on dialogue. During five extensive stakeholder meetings, representatives of farmers, service industries, food distribution, education, government, research, consumers and NGO's participated in a constructive dialogue on values and mission, principles and two vivid descriptions of envisioned future farms. The concept of the project was welcomed and supported by the Flemish Minister-President and by the Belgian federal state secretary for sustainable development. |
| Address |
|
| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
|
| Publisher |
|
Place of Publication |
|
Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
000256245800004 |
Publication Date |
2007-08-08 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0959-6526 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
5.715 |
Times cited |
13 |
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 5.715; 2008 IF: 1.362 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:136765 |
Serial |
6232 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Van Passel, S.; Nevens, F.; Mathijs, E.; Van Huylenbroeck, G. |
| Title |
Measuring farm sustainability and explaining differences in sustainable efficiency |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2007 |
Publication |
Ecological Economics |
Abbreviated Journal |
Ecol Econ |
| Volume |
62 |
Issue |
1 |
Pages |
149-161 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics |
| Abstract |
A major objective of European agricultural policy is to have a sustainable and efficient farming sector that is applying environmentally-friendly production methods. Policy makers aim to combine a strong economic performance and a sustainable use of natural resources. Therefore, it is important to measure and to assess farm sustainability. For a large dataset of Flemish dairy farms, a valuation method that is based on the concept of opportunity costs is used to calculate and analyze differences among the sample farms with respect to the creation of sustainable value. But more important than measuring the creation of sustainable value is to analyze differences in sustainable efficiency. Therefore, sustainable efficiency measures are calculated and differences in sustainable efficiency are explained. Using panel data, an effect model captures the determinants of sustainable efficiency of the studied farms. The empirical model shows that, in general, larger farms have a higher sustainable efficiency. Also farmer's age and dependency on support payments proved to be determining characteristics for observed differences in sustainable efficiency. |
| Address |
|
| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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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 |
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 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Petitclerc, E.; Welkenhuysen, K.; Van Passel, S.; Piessens, K.; Maes, D.; Compernolle, T. |
| Title |
Towards geological-economic modelling to improve evaluating policy instruments for geothermal energy : case study for Belgium (Campine Basin) |
Type |
A3 Journal article |
| Year |
2017 |
Publication |
European Geologist |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
43 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
10-15 |
| Keywords |
A3 Journal article; Economics; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM) |
| Abstract |
Deep geothermal energy appears to be currently on the edge of a take-off in Belgium. However, the actual emergence of this technology is subject to developments in legislation and incentives from regional governments. Different risk/return expectations across stages of the investment continuum exist and the financial structures that are employed at each stage may require different types of public support. In this context, the ALPI project aims at developing a geological-economic model to calculate the impact of different policy instruments on development of the Belgian geothermal energy sector. Due to the lack of underground information describing the Campine Basin, economic methods are used to deal with these large geological uncertainties. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
|
Publication Date |
|
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
1028-267x |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record |
| Impact Factor |
|
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:155239 |
Serial |
6273 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Kuppens, T.; Van Dael, M.; Vanreppelen, K.; Carleer, R.; Yperman, J.; Schreurs, S.; Van Passel, S. |
| Title |
Techno-economic assessment of pyrolysis char production and application : a review |
Type |
P1 Proceeding |
| Year |
2014 |
Publication |
|
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
|
Issue |
|
Pages |
67-72 |
| Keywords |
P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology |
| Abstract |
Many organic residue streams such as pig manure are not or inefficiently used, although they can be converted into valuable materials, as well as energy, using pyrolysis. The yield of the pyrolysis products (i.e. oil, gas and char) is dependent on the process conditions and the feedstock used. Char as a soil amendment or activated carbon are interesting options for valorization of biomass residues. Here, a review is presented of the techno-economic potential of both valorization options based on literature and own experiments with wood from phytoremediation, particle board and waste from beer production. The term “biochar” is specifically used to designate pyrolysis char that is intentionally applied to soil in order to enhance its structure and fertility. Biochar applications are often also motivated by the objective of climate change mitigation. Two main disadvantages for the economic feasibility of biochar applications have been discerned. Firstly, carbon sequestration in agricultural crops and soils is not yet eligible under the Clean Development Mechanism. Secondly, the impact of biochar on crop productivity is unclear. Activated carbon (AC) seems to have interesting adsorption characteristics resulting in potentially high sales prices. A preliminary techno-economic assessment showed that AC production is preferred above oil production for wood from phytoremediation as long as the market price of 2 kEUR.t(-1) for commercially available ACs can be attained. Whenever a feedstock with high nitrogen content is available (e.g. particle board with melamine urea formaldehyde resin), even higher market prices might be attained. This study shows that valorization of the pyrolysis char might be an answer to the slow adoption of pyrolysis in commercial applications. Focus in research and development, for instance in future research with regard to pig manure valorization, should therefore be on sustainable products with high economic value and direct utilization potential. |
| Address |
|
| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
|
Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
|
Wos |
000346540000012 |
Publication Date |
|
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
International Conference on BioMass (iconBM 2014), 4-7 May 2014, Florence, Italy / Ranzi, Eliseo [edit.]; et al. |
| Series Volume |
37 |
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
978-88-95608-28-0 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
|
Times cited |
8 |
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
; ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:127547 |
Serial |
6265 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Kuppens, T.; Van Dael, M.; Maggen, J.; Vanreppelen, K.; Yperman, J.; Carleer, R.; Elen, H.; Van Passel, S. |
| Title |
Techno-economic assessment of different conversion pathways for pyrolysis char from pig manure |
Type |
P1 Proceeding |
| Year |
2014 |
Publication |
|
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
|
Issue |
|
Pages |
901-911 |
| Keywords |
P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology |
| Abstract |
The amount of animal manure that can be brought back to agricultural land is limited by legislation. Because pig manure is available in too large quantities in some areas, we investigate the techno-economic feasibility of converting it into valuable products. First, slurry is separated in water, a thick fraction and a fertilizer concentrate poor in phosphate. Then, the thick fraction is dried and pyrolyzed. Our goal is to identify the optimal pyrolysis and activation conditions for the production of biochar or activated carbon. The latter has interesting adsorption characteristics due to the presence of nitrogen. It can also be used as a soil amendment as it improves biomass quantity and quality. On top, it immobilizes toxic elements and stores carbon in the soil. Char thus has many interesting characteristics and can be valued in different ways. The economic feasibility has been explored by a first techno-economic modelling iteration. The critical factors influencing the feasibility are identified by Monte Carlo simulations for further improvement of the process design. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
|
Publication Date |
|
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
22nd European Biomass Conference and Exhibition : Setting the Course for a Biobased Economy, 23-26 June 2014, Hamburg, Germany : conference proceedings |
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
|
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
|
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
; ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:127546 |
Serial |
6263 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Compernolle, T.; Van Passel, S.; Lebbe, L.; Vangronsveld, J.; Thewys, T. |
| Title |
Populieren en hun bacteriën : een sanering hoeft niet altijd duur en ingrijpend te zijn |
Type |
A3 Journal article |
| Year |
2010 |
Publication |
Nieuwsbrief milieu & economie |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
24 |
Issue |
5 |
Pages |
15-17 |
| Keywords |
A3 Journal article; Economics |
| Abstract |
|
| Address |
|
| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
|
Place of Publication |
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Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
|
Publication Date |
|
| 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:140852 |
Serial |
6237 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Einhäupl, P.; Krook, J.; Svensson, N.; Van Acker, K.; Van Passel, S. |
| Title |
Enhanced landfill mining at the REMO site : assessing stakeholders' perspectives for implementation |
Type |
P3 Proceeding |
| Year |
2018 |
Publication |
|
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
|
Issue |
|
Pages |
|
| Keywords |
P3 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM) |
| Abstract |
|
| Address |
|
| Corporate Author |
|
Thesis |
|
| Publisher |
|
Place of Publication |
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Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
|
Publication Date |
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| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
Proceedings of the 4th International Symposium on Enhanced Landfill Mining, February 5-6, 2018, Mechelen, Belgium / Jones, Peter Tom [edit.]; Machiels, Lieven [edit.] |
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
|
ISBN |
978-90-828259-0-9 |
Additional Links |
UA library record |
| Impact Factor |
|
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:161512 |
Serial |
6194 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Zarafshani, K.; Ghasemi, S.; Houshyar, E.; Ghanbari, R.; Van Passel, S.; Azadi, H. |
| Title |
Canola adoption enhancement in Western Iran |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2017 |
Publication |
Journal Of Agricultural Science And Technology |
Abbreviated Journal |
J Agr Sci Tech-Iran |
| Volume |
19 |
Issue |
1 |
Pages |
47-58 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM) |
| Abstract |
Canola production is an important alternative for agricultural policy-makers in Iran to reduce dependency on the imported vegetable oils. Nevertheless, the canola planted area is only increasing at a slow pace, indicating a low willingness-to-accept of farmers. The general aim of this study was to determine the factors influencing the canola adoption in the Kermanshah Province in Western Iran. Employing stratified random sampling method, 106 farmers from each adopter and non-adopter group were selected. Helping to reach a suitable extensional program, two main categories of variables were defined; i.e. farmers personal characteristics and extension parameters. The analysis of farmers personal characteristics variables revealed that the adopters had larger farms and were younger. The results also show that 80% of the adopters were highly to very highly willing to cultivate canola. Furthermore, a logistic regression model estimated the influence of extensional parameters variables on the canola adoption. According to the regression model, the most effective factors are contact with extension agents and participating in extension classes. As a conclusion, it is suggested that the focus of extension services should be to reduce the distance to agricultural service centers in combination with more contact with extension agents and classes. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
|
Wos |
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Publication Date |
|
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
1680-7073 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record |
| Impact Factor |
0.813 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 0.813 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:140684 |
Serial |
6164 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Vicca, S.; Crabbé, A.; Van Passel, S. |
| Title |
Is het coronavirus goed nieuws voor het klimaat? = Is the coronavirus good news for the climate? |
Type |
Newspaper/Magazine/blog article |
| Year |
2020 |
Publication |
globalchangeecology.blog |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
|
Issue |
|
Pages |
|
| Keywords |
Newspaper/Magazine/blog article; Sociology; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change; Centre for Research on Environmental and Social Change |
| Abstract |
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| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
https://www.scientists4climate.be/is-the-coronavirus-good-news-for-the-climate/ |
Publication Date |
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| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
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| ISSN |
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ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; https://www.scientists4climate.be/is-the-coronavirus-good-news-for-the-climate/; https://globalchangeecology.blog/2020/04/03/is-het-coronavirus-goed-nieuws-voor-het-klimaat/ |
| Impact Factor |
|
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:168299 |
Serial |
6934 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Gezahegn, T.W.; Van Passel, S.; Berhanu, T.; D'Haese, M.; Maertens, M. |
| Title |
Structural and institutional heterogeneity among agricultural cooperatives in Ethiopia : does it matter for farmers' welfare? |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Journal Of Agricultural And Resource Economics |
Abbreviated Journal |
J Agr Resour Econ |
| Volume |
46 |
Issue |
2 |
Pages |
325-342 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM) |
| Abstract |
This paper analyzes how structural and institutional heterogeneity among irrigation cooperatives shapes the impact of membership on farmers' welfare in northern Ethiopia, using a novel heteroskedasticity-based identification strategy. More specifically, we estimate how cooperative characteristics influence members' income and poverty level. We find that stricter water use regulations have income-enhancing and poverty-reducing effects for farmers. We also find that farmers benefit more from membership in larger, younger, and bottom-up cooperatives initiated through grassroots collective action. Our findings have implications for irrigation development in Ethiopia and call for a better deliberation of organizational heterogeneity in cooperative impact studies |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
000656121100010 |
Publication Date |
|
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
1068-5502; 2327-8285 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
1 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 1 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:179190 |
Serial |
6945 |
| Permanent link to this record |
