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Author Thomassen, G.; Van Dael, M.; You, F.; Van Passel, S.
Title A multi-objective optimization-extended techno-economic assessment : exploring the optimal microalgal-based value chain Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Green Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Green Chem
Volume 21 Issue 21 Pages 5945-5959
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The use of fossil-based products induces a large environmental burden. To lighten this burden, green technologies are required that can replace their fossil-based counterparts. To enable the development of economically viable green technologies, an optimization towards both economic and environmental objectives is required. To perform this multi-objective optimization (MOO), the environmental techno-economic assessment (ETEA) methodology is extended towards a MOO-extended ETEA. The development of this MOO-extended ETEA is the main objective of this manuscript. As an example of a green technology, the concept of microalgae biorefineries is used as a case study to illustrate the MOO-extended ETEA. According to the results, all optimal value chains include open pond cultivation, a membrane for medium recycling and spray drying. The optimal economic value chain uses Nannochloropsis sp. in a one-stage cultivation to produce fish larvae feed, while the optimal environmental design uses Dunaliella salina or Haematococcus pluvialis to produce carotenoids and fertilizer or energy products, by means of anaerobic digestion or gasification. The crucial parameters for both environmental and economic feasibility are the content, price and reference impact of the main end product, the growth parameters and the biomass and carotenoid recovery efficiency alongside the different process steps. By identifying the economic and environmentally optimal algal-based value chain and the crucial drivers, the MOO-extended ETEA provides insights on how algae-based value chains can be developed in the most economic and environmentally-friendly way. For example, the inclusion of a medium recycling step to lower the water and salt consumption is required in all Pareto-optimal scenarios. Another major insight is the requirement of high-value products such as carotenoids or specialty food to obtain and economically and environmentally feasible algal-based value chain. Due to the modular nature of the MOO-extended ETEA, multiple processes can be included or excluded from the superstructure. Although this case study is limited to current microalgae biorefinery technologies, the MOO-extended ETEA can also be used to assess the economic and environmental effect of more innovative technologies. This way, the MOO-extended ETEA provides a methodology to assess the economic and environmental potential of innovative green technologies and shorten their time-to-market.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000493077100016 Publication Date 2019-10-01
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1463-9262; 1463-9270 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.125 Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 9.125
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:164296 Serial 6230
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Author Biely, K.; Maes, D.; Van Passel, S.
Title Market power extended : from Foucault to Meadows Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Sustainability Abbreviated Journal Sustainability-Basel
Volume 10 Issue 8 Pages 2843-23
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Market power is a complex matter that is approximated with quantitative indicators within economics. However, these indicators may not fully capture market power, or they may fail to identify it, although it may be present. Moreover, a quantitative approach restricts market power as a concept, impeding the ability to discuss its relationship with other concepts, such as sustainability. This paper extends the definition of market power, following Foucaults understanding of power and the associated theoretical discussions of power from different disciplines. We extended Foucaults work by including systems thinking to capture the importance of the prevalent systems paradigm, which is the ultimate initiator of action. Apart from distinguishing different elements of power, we also integrate an instrumental view on the elements of power. The developed frame allows us to understand the dynamic character of power as a force that strives to maintain or ameliorate the position of the paradigm that it serves. Based on this frame, we outline how this extended understanding of power can be used to analyze market power itself, and its relation with sustainability.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000446767700259 Publication Date 2018-08-10
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2071-1050 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.789 Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; This research was performed within the frame of the HORIZON 2020 project SUFISA with the grant agreement number 635577. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.789
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:154139 Serial 6224
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Author Hernandez Parrodi, J.C.; Lucas, H.; Gigantino, M.; Sauve, G.; Esguerra, J.L.; Einhäupl, P.; Vollprecht, D.; Pomberger, R.; Friedrich, B.; Van Acker, K.; Krook, J.; Svensson, N.; Van Passel, S.
Title Integration of resource recovery into current waste management through (enhanced) landfill mining Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Detritus Abbreviated Journal
Volume Volume 08 - December 2019 Issue Volume 08 - December 2019 Pages 1
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Europe has somewhere between 150,000 and 500,000 landfill sites, with an estimated 90% of them being “non-sanitary” landfills, predating the EU Landfill Directive of 1999/31/EC. These older landfills tend to be filled with municipal solid waste and often lack any environmental protection technology. “ Doing nothing”, state-of-theart aftercare or remediating them depends largely on technical, societal and economic conditions which vary between countries. Beside “ doing nothing' and landfill aftercare, there are different scenarios in landfill mining, from re-landfilling the waste into ”sanitary landfills" to seizing the opportunity for a combined resource-recovery and remediation strategy. This review article addresses present and future issues and potential opportunities for landfill mining as an embedded strategy in current waste management systems through a multi-disciplinary approach. In particular, three general landfill mining strategies are addressed with varying extents of resource recovery. These are discussed in relation to the main targets of landfill mining: (i) reduction of the landfill volume (technical), (ii) reduction of risks and impacts (environmental) and (iii) increase in resource recovery and overall profitability (economic). Geophysical methods could be used to determine the characteristics of the landfilled waste and subsurface structures without the need of an invasive exploration, which could greatly reduce exploration costs and time, as well as be useful to develop a procedure to either discard or select the most appropriate sites for (E)LFM. Material and energy recovery from land-filled waste can be achieved through mechanical processing coupled with thermochemical valorization technologies and residues upcycling techniques. Gasification could enable the upcycling of residues after thermal treatment into a new range of eco-friendly construction materials based on inorganic polymers and glass-ceramics. The multi-criteria assessment is directly influenced by waste- and technology related factors, which together with site-specific conditions, market and regulatory aspects, influence the environmental, economic and societal impacts of (E)LFM projects.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000504065300012 Publication Date 2019-12-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; This research has been funded by the European Union ' s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant agreement No. 721185 “NEW-MINE” (EU Training Network for Resource Recovery through Enhanced Landfill Mining; www.new-mine.eu). ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:165759 Serial 6219
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Author Dubois, M.; Hoogmartens, R.; Van Passel, S.; Van Acker, K.; Vanderreydt, I.
Title Innovative market-based policy instruments for waste management : a case study on shredder residues in Belgium Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Waste Management & Research Abbreviated Journal Waste Manage Res
Volume 33 Issue 10 Pages 886-893
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract In an increasingly complex waste market, market-based policy instruments, such as disposal taxes, can give incentives for sustainable progress while leaving flexibility for innovation. However, implementation of disposal taxes is often criticised by domestic waste handlers that fear to be outcompeted by competitors in other countries. The article discusses three innovative market-based instruments that limit the impact on international competitiveness: Tradable recycling credits, refunded disposal taxes and differentiated disposal taxes. All three instruments have already been implemented for distinct environmental policies in Europe. In order to illustrate how these instruments can be used for waste policy, the literature review is complemented with a case study on shredder residues from metal-containing waste streams in Belgium. The analysis shows that a conventional disposal tax remains the most efficient, simple and transparent instrument. However, if international competition is a significant issue or if political support is weak, refunded and differentiated disposal taxes can have an added value as second-best instruments. Tradable recycling credits are not an appropriate instrument for use in small waste markets with market power. In addition, refunded taxes create similar incentives, but induce lower transactions costs.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000361818000004 Publication Date 2015-09-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0734-242x; 1096-3669 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 1.803 Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; The author(s) disclosed receipt of the following financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: The research has been funded by the Flemish Government through the policy research centres programme. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.803; 2015 IF: 1.297
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129876 Serial 6217
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Author Biely, K.; Maes, D.; Van Passel, S.
Title The idea of weak sustainability is illegitimate Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal
Volume 20 Issue 1 Pages 223-232
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Since the introduction of the sustainability challenge, scientists disagree over the interpretation of the term sustainability. Weak and strong sustainability are the two main interpretations of sustainability, which are opposing each other. Some researchers stated that the interpretation of the term depends on the context; others disagree pointing out that it always implies the meaning of continuation. The term sustainability can be used as attribute, which adds a certain characteristic to the noun. If something can be attributed as being sustainable, it can also be unsustainable. The sustainability challenge consists of shifting from the current unsustainable towards a sustainable system. This paper outlines that the weak sustainability term is illegitimate, as it leads to a contradiction with the acknowledged assumption that the current state is unsustainable. This contradiction is revealed through an analysis of the occurrence of decoupling in agriculture: Agricultural land use could be decoupled from agricultural production, but only with the trade-off of massive increases in fertilizer, pesticide, energy and water usage. This paper outlines an inherent inconsistency within the ongoing discussion about the interpretation of sustainability. Through identifying the invalidity of the weak sustainability interpretation the focus can be shifted form the discourse to the sustainability challenge itself.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000423142700011 Publication Date 2016-10-31
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1387-585x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to thank the reviewers for their time and their comments on the draft version. This paper was supported by the Horizon 2020 project SUFISA (Grant Agreement No. 635577). ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:149043 Serial 6212
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Author Srivastava, A.; Van Passel, S.; Laes, E.
Title Dissecting demand response : a quantile analysis of flexibility, household attitudes, and demographics Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Energy Research and Social Science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 52 Issue 52 Pages 169-180
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Demand response (DR) can aid with grid integration of renewables, ensuring security of supply, and reducing generation costs. However, not enough is known about how residential customers’ perceptions of DR shape their response to such programs. This paper offers a deeper understanding of – and reveals the heterogeneity in – this relationship by conducting a quantile regression analysis of a Belgian DR trial, combining data on response with information on household attitudes towards smart appliances. Results overall suggest that improving response requires subtle shifts in electricity consumption behaviour, which can be achieved through changes in user perceptions. Specifically, if customers are inclined to be flexible, a stronger perception of smart appliances as being beneficial can greatly improve response. With those who are less flexible, the cost of smart appliances is a bigger concern. Thus, when designing DR programs, policymakers should aim to promote modest behaviour changes – so as to minimise inconvenience – in customers, by improving awareness on the benefits of smart appliances. Uptake of such DR programs may be improved by explaining the financial benefits or offering incentives to less flexible population segments. Lastly, improving response among older population segments will require a deeper investigation into their concerns.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000468215900016 Publication Date 2019-03-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2214-6296 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; This work continued on the results and data of the project Linear that was supported by the Flemish Ministry of Science and organised by the Institute for Science and Technology (IWT). The authors gratefully acknowledge the support extended by Wim Cardinaels at VITO in helping them access the underlying Linear data. ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:158910 Serial 6183
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Author Chekol Zewdie, M.; Van Passel, S.; Cools, J.; Tenessa, D.B.; Ayele, Z.A.; Tsegaye, E.A.; Minale, A.S.; Nyssen, J.
Title Direct and indirect effect of irrigation water availability on crop revenue in northwest Ethiopia : a structural equation model Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Agricultural Water Management Abbreviated Journal Agr Water Manage
Volume 220 Issue 220 Pages 27-35
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Development of a clear understanding of the relationship between the availability of dam-driven irrigation water and crop revenue is important in poverty reduction and food security process. As a result, large research efforts are devoted to understanding the relationship between the availability of irrigation water and crop revenue. However, earlier studies do have several limitations. For example, without considering its indirect effect, prior studies focused solely on the direct effect of availability of irrigation water on crop revue. In this study, using a structural equation model analysis, the direct and indirect effect of availability of dam-driven irrigation water on crop revenue is decomposed and quantified specifically for the Koga irrigation scheme, located in the Mecha district of Amhara region in Ethiopia. A primary data set was collected from a randomly selected sample of 450 households in the Koga irrigation scheme. More than half of the households (254) are supported by the Koga Dam irrigation water during the dry season, and the other 196 households depended only on rainfall. The results of the study showed that, in addition to its direct effect, the availability of irrigation water indirectly affected crop revenue through receptivity of the farmers to use modern farm inputs. Around 27 percent of the total effect of dam-driven irrigation water on crop revenue was mediated by farmers’ receptivity to use yield-enhancing modern farm inputs. The results of this study suggested that the availability of irrigation water is essential to improve both crop revenue and receptivity of the farmers to use modern farm inputs. This finding also drives a strategic framework that the receptivity of the farmers to use modern farm inputs is crucial for utilizing the positive effects of irrigation water availability on crop revenue.
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Language Wos 000470941300003 Publication Date 2019-04-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0378-3774 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 2.848 Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to thank Bahir Dar University – Institutional University Cooperation (BDU-IUC) VLIR_UOS project for providing us enough funds for the completion of this study. Special gratitude is given to Abrehet Kahassay and Kassahun Birhanu for helping us to map the study area; and to the data collectors (Hilemichael Fentahun, Etsehewot Birara, and Tsegachewu Degu) for their commitment. The authors gratefully acknowledge the Koga Irrigation Scheme office managers, Tewachewu Abebe, and his colleagues for their support during the data collection. The authors also acknowledge the farmers (respondents) for their willingness to spend time responding honestly to questions. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.848
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:159246 Serial 6182
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Author Vanschoenwinkel, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Climate response of rainfed versus irrigated farms: the bias of farm heterogeneity in irrigation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Climatic Change Abbreviated Journal Climatic Change
Volume 147 Issue 1-2 Pages 225-234
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Researchers who do not take into account farm heterogeneity in implementing specific climate change adaptation options might significantly bias their findings. To prove this point, this paper focusses on irrigation as an adaptation option to climate change and highlights the fact that there is no such thing as “irrigation.” Instead, different farms consider water management options across a spectrum that ranges from purely rainfed farms to purely irrigated farms with in between the extreme practices such as supplemental irrigation, water conservation practices, and different irrigation techniques. Accounting for such differences is necessary, yet difficult due to a lack of farm-specific data on water management and irrigation. This paper uses unique Farm Accountancy Data Network data of Western European farmers on the proportion of farmland that each farm irrigates. Unlike previous work, this allows taking into account some within-irrigation heterogeneity instead of simply categorizing farms as being “irrigated.” We estimate and compare climate response models based on the Ricardian cross-sectional method for a large range of irrigation categories. The results give insights into how the farm irrigation climate response can be significantly different depending on how irrigation is defined. This proves that ignoring within-adaptation differences when comparing non-adaptation with adaptation (in this case, rainfed versus irrigated agriculture) might lead to biased conclusions with regard to effectiveness of adaptation strategies. We therefore argue that it might be more relevant to understand at which point and under which circumstances irrigated agriculture is more or less beneficial than rainfed agriculture.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000425959700017 Publication Date 2018-01-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0165-0009 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.496 Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; This paper was supported by the Horizon 2020 project SUFISA (Grant Agreement No. 635577). ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.496
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:149895 Serial 6166
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Author Compernolle, T.; Van Passel, S.; Lebbe, L.
Title Bioremediation : how to deal with removal efficiency uncertainty? An economic application Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Journal Of Environmental Management Abbreviated Journal J Environ Manage
Volume 127 Issue Pages 77-85
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract Bioremediation is a remediation strategy, which has considerable strength but also certain limitations. Complex and uncertain relationships among biomass, contaminants, and nutrients lead to an uncertain level of removal efficiency. The uncertainty inherent to a bioremediation strategy should be addressed in the remediation selection process. In order to evaluate the bioremediation strategy economically, this study takes into account the reversibility of a decision. A decision tree structures the different remediation strategies, thus giving the possible courses of action open to the decision maker. The option value indicates the importance of having the possibility to reverse a previously made decision. Compared with conventional economic evaluation tools, more information to ground the selection made is revealed.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000322940100010 Publication Date 2013-05-15
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
Impact Factor 4.01 Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.01; 2013 IF: 3.188
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129868 Serial 6162
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Author Maes, D.; Van Passel, S.
Title An agent-based model of farmer behaviour to explain the limited adaptability of Flemish agriculture Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions Abbreviated Journal
Volume 22 Issue Pages 63-77
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Transition projects have been implemented for Flemish agriculture since 2003, but these did not enable a transformation of the agricultural sector. This paper looks at pre-transition scenarios that have been collectively designed by stakeholders of the agricultural sector in 2002. These foresaw decreases in the regional animal stocks in Flanders. However, the real evolution of the sector did not reveal such a decrease. It is assumed that the individual adaptive behaviour of farmers can explain the unexpected stability of the Flemish agricultural sector. A detailed agent-based model has been built to replicate the past evolution, accounting for structural diversity of farmers, heterogeneity in behaviour, and natural resource constraints. The results indicate that different forms of rigidity in the individual behaviour of farmers slow down the adaptation of the agricultural sector. Future transition scenarios should account for these elements in order not to overestimate the speed of change in the sector. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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Language Wos 000400269900006 Publication Date 2016-07-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2210-4224 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; This project was financed by the Impuls-project of the Transnational University Limburg (TUL, Belgium and theNetherlands). A prior version of the results was presented in September 2014 at the 10th annual meeting of the European Social Simulation Association (ESSA) in Barcelona; the remarks from participants improved this manuscript. Thecomputational resources and services in support of this study were provided by the Hercules Foundation and the Flemish Government-department EWI. Prof. Steven Van Passel thanks DG Agriculture (European Commission) for access to theFarm Accountancy Data Network (FADN). All remaining errors are the sole responsibility of the authors. ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:143721 Serial 6150
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Author Rafiaani, P.; Kuppens, T.; Thomassen, G.; Van Dael, M.; Azadi, H.; Lebailly, P.; Van Passel, S.
Title A critical view on social performance assessment at company level : social life cycle analysis of an algae case Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication International Journal Of Life Cycle Assessment Abbreviated Journal Int J Life Cycle Ass
Volume Issue Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Purpose Social indicators are not easy to be quantitatively analyzed, although at the local scale, the social impacts might be relevant and important. Using the existing approaches for both quantitative and semi-qualitative measurements, this study aims to assess the social impacts of a company working on algae production systems in Belgium through social life cycle analysis (SLCA). By highlighting the opportunities and challenges on the way of applying the existing SLCA approaches at company level, the objective of this study is to contribute to the development of a suitable and clear SLCA approach when a company is considered as the unit of analysis. Methods Based on the list of potential social impact categories suggested by the United Nations Environment Program/Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (UNEP/SETAC) guidelines (2009) for SLCA, three stakeholder groups (workers, consumers, and local community) and three subcategories associated with each stakeholder group were identified as the most relevant for carbon capture and utilization technologies. Company and sector level data were collected using existing documents and reports, and the data were analyzed and scored using a combined quantitative and semi-quantitative approach to develop a social assessment model for the case study. Results and discussion The company appears to perform well for all the evaluated social indicators except the one related to the subcategory “equal opportunity/discrimination for workers” for which the share of women employed is lower compared with the sector-level data. The results of our assessment were further discussed regarding the challenges and limitations of performing SLCA at the company level. Based on our experience, the validity of the outcomes is significantly influenced by the data availability, the generality of the indicators introduced within the UNEP/SETAC guidelines, and the subjectivity in data collection for the semi-quantitative assessment among others. Conclusions By highlighting the difficulties and challenges of applying the SLCA at the company level, our study provides a starting point for improving the quantitative assessment and monitoring social implications at the company level within a regional foreground in Europe.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000492643600001 Publication Date 2019-10-26
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0948-3349; 1614-7502 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.8 Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.8; 2020 IF: 3.173
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:164676 Serial 6141
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Author Joolaie, R.; Sarvestani, A.A.; Taheri, F.; Van Passel, S.; Azadi, H.
Title Sustainable cropping pattern in North Iran : application of fuzzy goal programming Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal
Volume 19 Issue 6 Pages 2199-2216
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Due to the important role that the application of mathematical programming models have in determining optimal cropping patterns, this research presents a sustainable cropping pattern that considers selected economic, environmental, and social goals together. Using a random sampling method, a sample size of 168 farmers was selected in the Sari County, Iran. Our results showed that economic, self-sufficiency, environmental, and social goals have a distinctly different impact on cropping pattern performance. Compared to the current cropping pattern, the gross margins for economic and social goals increased by nearly 11 and 2 %, respectively, and the gross margins for self-sufficiency and environmental goals decreased by nearly 2 and 36 %. Interestingly, it has been found that the performance of the current cropping pattern has an average positive impact of 6 % if economic, self-sufficiency, environmental, and social (employment) goals are realized simultaneously.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000414459300004 Publication Date 2016-09-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1387-585x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited (up) 2 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:147370 Serial 6257
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Author Annys, S.; Adgo, E.; Ghebreyohannes, T.; Van Passel, S.; Dessein, J.; Nyssen, J.
Title Impacts of the hydropower-controlled Tana-Beles interbasin water transfer on downstream rural livelihoods (northwest Ethiopia) Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Journal Of Hydrology Abbreviated Journal J Hydrol
Volume 569 Issue 569 Pages 436-448
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Despite public awareness of unintended impacts (1980s) and well-developed international standards (2000s), downstream impacts of large hydropower projects still very often are not properly assessed. Impacts of (hydropower-regulated) interbasin water transfers (IBWTs) are considered self-evidently positive, although they can have far-reaching consequences for hydrogeomorphological systems and consequently river-dependent communities. In this study, the downstream direct and indirect impacts of the Ethiopian hydropower-regulated Tana-Beles IBWT are evaluated in an interdisciplinary way. The components of the framework of rural livelihoods are considered and changing contexts, resources availabilities and livelihood strategies are analysed. Mixed methods are applied, combining hydrogeomorphological field observations, GIS analyses, scientific literature, policy documents, and semi-structured interviews with local people and local to federal authorities. Results show that the IBWT drastically increased the Beles rivers discharge (with an average release of +92 m3 s−1 at the outlet; *2 in rainy season and *12 in dry season 100 km downstream of the water release) and introduced dangerous situations for local communities (over 250 people drowned in the river). River bank erosion resulted in the uncompensated loss of farmland (163 ha) and the establishment of large-scale commercial farms increased the pressure on land and led to the impoverishment of displaced communities (4310 households). The project was implemented top-down, without any transparency, benefit sharing or compensation for external costs. This stresses the importance of downstream interdisciplinary impact assessments and highlights the need for decent in-depth ex post-analyses of hydropower projects. Environmental impact assessments should be taken seriously and cannot be considered a formality. In Ethiopia and in many developing countries, the hydropower industry is booming. Although dams and IBWTs can be the best solution for water-related problems in specific contexts, national development goals (such as the expansion of the electricity network) should not be at the expense of rural livelihoods.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000457952900032 Publication Date 2018-12-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0022-1694 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.483 Times cited (up) 2 Open Access
Notes ; This study was funded by the Flemish Research Foundation (FWO, Belgium), through project No. G022217N and a specific travel grant for a long stay abroad (No. V445417N). We acknowledge the cooperation with the Bahir Dar University VLIR-UOS IUC programme. All support given by Bahir Dar University has been greatly appreciated and many thanks go to Yonnas Shawul and Deribew Fenetie, for assisting and translating in the field. Staff of various ranks in administrative offices are thanked for their cooperation and mostly openness during interviews. Special thanks go to the local farmers and other rural dwellers, for their cooperation and contribution to this research. We thank the two anonymous reviewers for their constructive comments. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.483
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:156935 Serial 6215
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Author Lizin, S.; Van Passel, S.; Vranken, L.
Title Heterogeneity in the solar-powered consumer electronics market : a discrete choice experiments study Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Solar Energy Materials And Solar Cells Abbreviated Journal Sol Energ Mat Sol C
Volume 156 Issue Pages 140-146
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Solar-powered consumer electronics are a likely starting point for organic photovoltaic (OPV) market development. Therefore, a generic discrete choice experiments study can determine how Flemish consumers value solar-cell characteristics for solar-poweied consumer electronics. Such characteristics include efficiency, lifetime, aesthetics, integratability, and price. We contribute to the literature by investigating preference heterogeneity in a solar-power niche market with an experimental design with a fixed reference alternative. The error components random parameter logit (ECRPL) with interactions provides a better fit than the latent class (LC) model for our choice data. The main effects had the expected signs. Consequently, aesthetics and integratability are OPV's assets. Nevertheless, heterogeneity puts the results that are valid for the average consumer into perspective. Based on our findings, OPV commercialization efforts should target the experienced, impatient user who highly values design and functionality. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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Language Wos 000383304100015 Publication Date 2016-06-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0927-0248 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.784 Times cited (up) 2 Open Access
Notes ; Sebastien Lizin thanks the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for funding his postdoctoral mandate with Grant number 12G5415N, without which it would have been impossible to revise this work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.784
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:137107 Serial 6207
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Author Fatemi, M.; Azadi, H.; Rafiaani, P.; Taheri, F.; Dubois, T.; Van Passel, S.; Witlox, F.
Title Effects of supply chain management on tomato export in Iran : application of structural equation modeling Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Journal of food products marketing Abbreviated Journal
Volume 24 Issue 2 Pages 177-195
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Government and Law
Abstract Although Iran is one of the top 10 countries in the world that produce tomatoes, the level that they are exported into the global market is low. This issue may have resulted from a major problem within tomatoes supply chain management. This paper aims to develop an empirical model of the supply chain management (SCM) of tomato companies. Throughout the reviewed literature, a SCM construct with different six indicators has been developed, including information sharing, long-term relationship, cooperation, quality, flexibility, and delivery. In this study, the influence of the SCM components on tomato export was identified through the use of empirical data that were collected from 20 different tomato companies in Northeast Iran. Using structural equation modeling, the major elements of SCM were found to have significant impacts on the export of tomatoes. The results also showed that information sharing, cooperation, flexibility, quality, and delivery had significant positive effects on the export of tomatoes.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000424803000004 Publication Date 2017-03-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1045-4446 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited (up) 2 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:149044 Serial 6192
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Author Boerema, A.; Van Passel, S.; Meire, P.
Title Cost-effectiveness analysis of ecosystem management with ecosystem services : from theory to practice Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 152 Issue 152 Pages 207-218
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Ecosystem Management
Abstract Integrated ecosystem management is challenging due to many, often conflicting, targets and limited resources to allocate. A valuable and straightforward approach is to integrate an ecosystem services assessment in a cost-effectiveness analysis as method to evaluate and compare the cost-effectiveness of several management scenarios to reach one or more objectives and take into account the potential effects on other ecosystem functions and services. Nevertheless, this method is not commonly used in ecosystem management evaluation but can provide an alternative for the frequently used but often contested cost-benefit analysis (which requires the step of assigning a monetary value to each benefit). The aim of this study is to apply the cost-effectiveness analysis in combination with an ecosystem services assessment on a real case-study (comparing alternative management strategies for estuaries) to derive lessons learned to go from theory to practice. The application of this method for the case-study reveals many remaining challenges such as data availability and knowledge to assess ecosystem effects of management measures. Nevertheless, the analysis demonstrates that this method can be used for making a more integrated evaluation and supporting better-informed management decisions.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000440118700021 Publication Date 2018-06-19
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited (up) 2 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:151754 Serial 6173
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Author Mahdei, K.N.; Pouya, M.; Taheri, F.; Azadi, H.; Van Passel, S.
Title Sustainability indicators of irans developmental plans : application of the sustainability compass theory Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Sustainability Abbreviated Journal Sustainability-Basel
Volume 7 Issue 11 Pages 14647-14660
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The main purpose of this study was to analyze Irans developmental plans in order to examine and compare their direction and conformity with the sustainable development theory via the compass of sustainability. The approach involves a content analysis used in line with qualitative research methodologies. The results indicated that, in the first developmental plans, there was no direct reference to sustainable development. In the second to fifth plans, the main focus was on the social, environmental, and economic dimensions of development; which were common elements seen in the policies of all the plans. An analysis of the fourth plan revealed that expressions related to sustainable development appeared more frequently, indicating a stronger emphasis on sustainable development by decision-makers.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000369088600013 Publication Date 2015-11-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2071-1050 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.789 Times cited (up) 3 Open Access
Notes ; The authors wish to thank Bethany Gardner from the Department of Linguistics, Binghamton University for her kind help in improving the English of this text. The corresponding author is a beneficiary of Fulbright scholarship at Binghamton University-State University of New York. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.789; 2015 IF: 0.942
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129874 Serial 6256
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Author Hoeks, C.; Azadi, H.; Khachak, P.R.; Troyo-Dieguez, E.; Van Passel, S.; Witlox, F.
Title Reforming land-tenure systems in South Africa : routes to socio-economic and agricultural sustainability Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Development policy review Abbreviated Journal
Volume 32 Issue 6 Pages 647-674
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Law
Abstract Given the historical development of land tenure in South Africa, the aim of this article is to examine the best routes to alleviate poverty and retain sustainable agriculture in the country. First, a theoretical framework is presented that relates land tenure to sustainability, and three historical periods (pre-colonial, colonial, and apartheid) are then considered to explain the changes in land tenure and their consequences. The progress and main limitations of post-apartheid land reform to approach agricultural sustainability and alleviate poverty are discussed. Based on the analysis, different possibilities for future land reform are elaborated, followed by some recommendations for future land-reform policies in South Africa.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000342755600001 Publication Date 2014-09-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited (up) 3 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:122509 Serial 6241
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Author Nyssen, J.; Fetene, F.; Dessie, M.; Alemayehu, G.; Sewnet, A.; Wassie, A.; Kibret, M.; Walraevens, K.; Derudder, B.; Nicolai, B.; Annys, S.; Tegegne, F.; Van Passel, S.; Frankl, A.; Verleyen, E.; Teklemariam, D.; Adgo, E.
Title Persistence and changes in the peripheral Beles basin of Ethiopia Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Regional Environmental Change Abbreviated Journal Reg Environ Change
Volume 18 Issue 7 Pages 2089-2104
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract We have investigated the relevance of the notion of “peripheralism” in the Beles basin. In this lowland border area of Ethiopia, important investments require an evaluation of their socio-economic and ecological impacts in the light of Ethiopia's Climate-Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) strategy. We contrasted literature of different periods with field observations. In the middle and lower parts of the basin, the Gumuz people traditionally practised shifting cultivation. Resettlement of highlanders is particularly linked to water and land resources. A large irrigation project was initiated in the 1980s, but vegetables and fruits face post-harvest losses. Large water transfers from Lake Tana since 2010 affect the movement of people, the hydrogeomorphology, and ecology of the river. In several parts of the basin, the settlers' economy now dominates. Many Gumuz became sedentary but maintained their agricultural system, particularly in the south of the lower basin. Land titling allowed allocation of “vacant” areas to transnational or domestic investors. As a result, the semi-natural vegetation is frequently replaced by open cropland, leading to decreased carbon storage and increased soil erosion. This and water abstraction for irrigation jeopardise hydropower production, in contradiction with the CRGE objectives. Despite the recent developments, the contrasts in economic activity make the core-periphery dichotomy to remain actual in the Beles basin. The resettlements and permanent cropping tend to make the upper basin part of the core. However, the installation of a transit road and commercial farms in the lower basin do not allow to consider that a non-peripheral integration has taken place.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000445234600017 Publication Date 2018-04-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1436-3798 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.919 Times cited (up) 3 Open Access
Notes ; The authors acknowledge the numerous local inhabitants and authorities who shared their knowledge with us, particularly in Pawe and Dangur districts. All participants in group discussions and group excursions to the Beles basin are thanked for sharing ideas. The Institutional University Cooperation with Bahir Dar University (BDU-IUC), funded by the Belgian authorities, through the Flemish Interuniversity Council-University Development Cooperation, hosted the research activities. Lutgart Lenaerts (Norwegian University of Life Sciences) shared inspiring thoughts and Daniel Mege (Polish Academy of Sciences) provided useful documentation. Daniel Mege as well as Eric Movet (www.mydriase.fr) gave permission to use illustrations. The constructive comments on an earlier version of this paper by two anonymous reviewers and the editor are greatly acknowledged. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.919
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:154137 Serial 6235
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Author Jorli, M.; Van Passel, S.; Saghdel, H.S.
Title External costs from fossil electricity generation : a review of the applied impact pathway approach Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Energy & Environment Abbreviated Journal Energ Environ-Uk
Volume 29 Issue 5 Pages 635-648
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This paper reviews and compares 11 studies that have estimated external costs of fossil electricity generation by benefits transfer. These studies include 13 countries and most of these countries are developing countries. The impact pathway approach is applied to estimate the environmental impact arising from fossil fuel-fired power plant's air emission and the related damages on human health. The estimated damages are used to value the monetary external costs from fossil fuel electricity generation. The estimated external costs in the 13 countries vary from 0.51 to 213.5 USD (2005) per MWh due to differences in fossil fuel quality, location, technology, and efficiency of power plants and additionally differences in assumptions, monetization values, and impact estimations. Accounting for these externalities can indicate the actual costs of fossil energy. The results can be applied by policy makers to take measures to avoid additional costs and to apply newer and cleaner energy sources. The described methods in the selected studies for estimating the external costs with respect to incomplete local data can be applied as a useful example for other developing countries.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000440685300001 Publication Date 2018-03-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0958-305x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 0.302 Times cited (up) 3 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 0.302
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153136 Serial 6201
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Author Einhäupl, P.V.; Krook, J.; Svensson, N.; Van Acker, K.; Van Passel, S.
Title Eliciting stakeholder needs : an anticipatory approach assessing enhanced landfill mining Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Waste Management Abbreviated Journal Waste Manage
Volume 98 Issue 98 Pages 113-125
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Landfill owners, governmental institutions, technology providers, academia and local communities are important stakeholders involved in Enhanced Landfill Mining (ELFM). This concept of excavating and processing historical waste streams to higher added values can be seen as a continuation of traditional landfill mining (LFM) and seems to be an innovative and promising idea for potential environmental and societal benefits. However, ELFM's profitability is still under debate, and environmental as well as societal impacts have to be further investigated. This study provides a first step towards an anticipatory approach, assessing ELFM through stakeholder integration. In the study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with various stakeholders, involved in a case study in Flanders, Belgium. Participants were selected across a quadruple helix (QH) framework, i.e. industrial, governmental, scientific, and local community actors. The research comprises 13 interviews conducted with an aim to elicit stakeholder needs for ELFM implementation using a general inductive approach. In total 18 different stakeholder needs were identified. The paper explains how the stakeholder needs refer to the different dimensions of sustainability, which groups of stakeholders they primarily affect, and what types of uncertainty could be influenced by their implementation. The stakeholder needs are structured into societal, environmental, regulatory and techno-economic needs. Results show additional economic, environmental, and societal aspects of ELFM to be integrated into ELFM research, as well as a need for the dynamic modeling of impacts. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000487175500012 Publication Date 2019-08-21
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 4.03 Times cited (up) 3 Open Access
Notes ; This project has received funding from the European Union's EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation Horizon 2020 under Grant Agreement No 721185. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.03
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:163760 Serial 6193
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Author Maes, D.; Van Passel, S.
Title Effective bioeconomy policies for the uptake of innovative technologies under resource constraints Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal Biomass Bioenerg
Volume 120 Issue 120 Pages 91-106
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The bioeconomy is a shared vision for a future European industry entirely based on organic matter. Authorities support this technological development with subsidies and policies stimulating R&D. One major limitation for the bioeconomy is that R&D and industrial growth require the continuous availability of biomass as a primary resource. This resource dependence is already present during the formative years of new biobased innovations and influences the pilot and demonstration phase of the development. Traditionally, it is assumed that public support for pilot and demonstration initiatives may overcome this hurdle. In this paper, we investigate how this resource constraint limits the effectiveness of bioeconomy policies. The future development of the biobased sector is simulated including the inherent dependence of industrial activity on biomass. We simulate the future growth and technological diversity of an emerging biotechnological sector: the sector of manure transformation in Belgium. The paper reports the evolutions for three policy scenarios. The model explicitly accounts for endogenous innovation and knowledge transfer mechanisms. The results show that policies may have an important impact on the sector structure in the long run, but the sector growth remains ultimately constrained by the availability of inputs. So bioeconomy policies to promote innovation will be less effective, unless mechanisms are included to alleviate the resource constraint.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000454887700011 Publication Date 2018-11-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0961-9534 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.219 Times cited (up) 3 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.219
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:156757 Serial 6191
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Author Lan Thanh Nguyen; Anh Pham Hoai Nguyen; Van Passel, S.; Azadi, H.; Lebailly, P.
Title Access to preferential loans for poverty reduction and rural development : evidence from Vietnam Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Journal Of Economic Issues Abbreviated Journal J Econ Issues
Volume 52 Issue 1 Pages 246-269
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Preferential loans play an important role in the process of reducing poverty in developing countries. Considering the data set from the 2010 Vietnam Household Living Standards Survey, we aim to examine the influential factors in probability of households getting access to preferential loans. Additionally, we analyze the determinants of household income in association with the loans by applying a quantile regression model. Our results show that ethnicity-related factors have the largest marginal effect on the access to preferential loans. The results from the quantile regression model demonstrate that the debt factor has a deeper impact on the borrowing group at the lower quantiles of household income.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000426925300012 Publication Date 2018-12-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0021-3624 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 0.581 Times cited (up) 3 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 0.581
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:150919 Serial 6146
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Author Van Nijen, K.; Van Passel, S.; Squires, D.
Title A stochastic techno-economic assessment of seabed mining of polymetallic nodules in the Clarion Clipperton Fracture Zone Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Marine Policy Abbreviated Journal Mar Policy
Volume 95 Issue 95 Pages 133-141
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Polymetallic nodules found in the Clarion Clipperton Fracture Zone in the NE Pacific contain more nickel, manganese and cobalt than all terrestrial reserves combined. Following the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention and its 1994 Implementing Agreement, the resources of the international seabed beyond the limits of national jurisdiction will be developed for the benefit of mankind by attracting investment and technology, whilst demanding that necessary measures be taken to ensure effective protection of the marine environment. To date, no single commercial seabed mining activity has taken place in international waters, and the development of balanced and stimulating exploitation regulation is needed, based on accurate economic analysis. This paper presents the first detailed, vertically integrated, stochastic techno-economic assessment from a contractor's perspective, and contributes to the development of the world's first exploitation regulations. The economic performance measured by the internal rate of return was compared using deterministic and probabilistic commodity price forecasting models. Different levels of a financial payment regime, comprising of a royalty payment and a payment to internalize environmental costs, were considered. When real growth was included, the internal rate of return remains above the hurdle rate when a transitional, total-cost, financial payment regime is below 2 per cent during the initial period and below 4 per cent for the remaining tenure period. Following a 10-year moving average of commodity prices, including real growth, a 77.51 per cent probability was calculated of achieving a hurdle rate of 18 per cent.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000442190400016 Publication Date 2018-03-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0308-597x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.235 Times cited (up) 3 Open Access
Notes ; The methods and results of this paper were presented at the Deep Seabed Mining Payment Regime Workshop #3 (19-21 April 2017, Singapore): Exploring a Financial Model and Related Topics, organised by RESOLVE and PEW Charitable Trusts, and attended by a wide variety of stakeholders, including contractors, academics and nongovernmental organisations. Furthermore, this project has received funding from the European Union's Seventh Framework Program for research, technological development and demonstration under grant agreement no. 688975 (Blue Nodules). This output reflects only the authors' views and the European Union cannot be held responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained herein. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.235
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153697 Serial 6144
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Author Compernolle, T.; Van Passel, S.; Huisman, K.; Kort, P.
Title The option to abandon : stimulating innovative groundwater remediation technologies characterized by technological uncertainty Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Science Of The Total Environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ
Volume 496 Issue Pages 63-74
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract Many studies on technology adoption demonstrate that uncertainty leads to a postponement of investments by integrating a wait option in the economic analysis. The aim of this study however is to demonstrate how the investment in new technologies can be stimulated by integrating an option to abandon. Furthermore, this real option analysis not only considers the ex ante decision analysis of the investment in a new technology under uncertainty, but also allows for an ex post evaluation of the investment. Based on a case study regarding the adoption of an innovative groundwater remediation strategy, it is demonstrated that when the option to abandon the innovative technology is taken into account, the decision maker decides to invest in this technology, while at the same time it determines an optimal timing to abandon the technology if its operation proves to be inefficient. To reduce uncertainty about the effectiveness of groundwater remediation technologies, samples are taken. Our analysis shows that when the initial belief in an effective innovative technology is low, it is important that these samples provide correct information in order to justify the adoption of the innovative technology. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000342245600009 Publication Date 2014-07-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0048-9697 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited (up) 4 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.9; 2014 IF: 4.099
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:119931 Serial 6269
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Author Van Schoubroeck, S.; Springael, J.; Van Dael, M.; Malina, R.; Van Passel, S.
Title Sustainability indicators for biobased chemicals : a Delphi study using multi-criteria decision analysis Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 144 Issue 144 Pages 198-208
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Biobased chemistry has gained interest and has the potential to tackle some of the sustainability challenges the chemical industry must endure. Sustainability impacts need to be evaluated and monitored to highlight the advantages and pitfalls of different biobased routes over the entire product life cycle. This study aims for expert consensus concerning indicators needed and preferred for sustainability analysis of biobased chemicals in Europe. Experts are consulted by means of a Delphi method with stakeholders selected from three core groups: the private, public and academic sector. Best-Worst Scaling (BWS) is performed to gather data on the prioritization of the sustainability indicators per respondent. Afterwards, Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) is used to develop a consensus ranking among the experts. The results show that GHG emissions, market potential and acceptance of biobased materials are deemed the most crucial indicators for respectively environmental, economic and social sustainability. Expert consensus is positive in all three sustainability domains, with the strongest consensus measured for environmental sustainability showing a median Kendalls τ of 0.63 (τ ranging from -1 to 1) and the weakest consensus found within social sustainability showing a median Kendalls τ of 0.50. Further research can apply the ranked indicators on specific case studies to evaluate the practicability of the defined indicator set.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000461534800021 Publication Date 2019-02-01
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.313 Times cited (up) 4 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.313
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:156929 Serial 6255
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Author Daniels, S.; Witters, N.; Beliën, T.; Vrancken, K.; Vangronsveld, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Monetary valuation of natural predators for biological pest control in pear production Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 134 Issue Pages 160-173
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract In spite of global actions, biodiversity is declining at an alarming rate. Despite the need for objectively comparable monetary standards to include biodiversity arguments in policymaking, research on the relationship between species diversity and its valuation from a societal perspective is still scarce. In this paper, a methodological framework for the valuation of natural predators based on their ecological role in the agroecosystem is introduced. The framework integrates a dynamic ecological model simulating interactions between species with an economic model, thereby quantifying the effect of reduced numbers of natural predators on the net farm income. The model attributes an objective monetary value to increased species diversity through the changes in the provisioning of a marketable good. Results indicate that the loss of three predators could decrease net farm income with 88.86 ha− 1 to 2186.5 ha− 1. For the pear production sector in Flanders in 2011, this constitutes to an indirect use value of 0,68 million for one predator and 16.63 million for the presence of three predators. The aim is to provide a justification for the argument for biodiversity conservation, based on the ecological function of species, through the delivery of comparable monetary standards.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000395219300018 Publication Date 2017-01-26
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited (up) 4 Open Access
Notes ; The research was made possible with the financial aid from a BOF grant of the Centre for Environmental Sciences (CMK, Hasselt University). Nele Witters is funded by Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO). The authors would like to thank Ellen Elias from Symbio for providing relevant data and insights into the complex interplay between pest insects, natural predators and human impacts from fertilizers and pesticide use. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:140685 Serial 6228
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Author Moretti, M.; Van Passel, S.; Camposeo, S.; Pedrero, F.; Dogot, T.; Lebailly, P.; Vivaldi, G.A.
Title Modelling environmental impacts of treated municipal wastewater reuse for tree crops irrigation in the Mediterranean coastal region Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Science Of The Total Environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ
Volume 660 Issue 660 Pages 1513-1521
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Wastewater reuse provides valuable solutions to solve the societal challenges of decreasing availability and limiting access to secure water resources. The present study quantifies the environmental performance of nectarine orchards irrigation using treated municipal wastewater (TMW) and surface water using a unique dataset based on field experimental data. Climate change, toxicity (for human and freshwater), eutrophication (marine and freshwater) and acidification impacts were analysed using the impact assessment method suggested by the International Reference Life Cycle Data System (ILCD). The water footprint associated to the life cycles of each system has been estimated using the Available WAter REmaining (AWARE) method. Monte Carlo simulation was used to assess data uncertainty. The irrigation of nectarine orchards using TMW performs better than the irrigation using surface water for eutrophication impact categories. Compared with surface water resources, the potential impacts of TMW reuse in agriculture on climate change and toxicity are affected by the wastewater treatment phase (WWT). Only eutrophication and acidification burdens are generated by in-field substitution of surface water with TMW. Considering human and ecosystem water demand, the irrigation with TMW increases water consumption of 19.12 m3 per kg of nectarine produced. Whereas, it shows a positive contribution to water stress (−0.19 m3) if only human water demand is considered. This study provides important results that allow for a better understanding of the potential environmental consequences of TMW reuse in agriculture. It suggests that embracing the type of WWTs, the replacement of fertilizers, the effects on water scarcity and ecosystem quality might be useful to redefine water reuse regulations and increase public acceptance for the reuse of TMW in agriculture. Moreover, this study reveals the need for developing consensus and standardized guidance for life cycle analysis of water reuse applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000457725700145 Publication Date 2019-01-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0048-9697 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited (up) 4 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to thank the EU, MIUR and FNRS for funding, in the frame of the collaborative international Consortium DESERT financed under the ERA-NET WaterWorks2014 Cofunded Call. This ERA-NET is an integral part of the 2015 Joint Activities developed by the “Water Challenges for a Changing World Joint Programme Initiative (Water JPI)”. G.A. Vivaldi would like to thank also the Regione Puglia for the support from the “Fondo di Sviluppo e Coesione” 2007-2013 – APQ Ricerca Regione Puglia “Programma regionale a sostegno della specializzazione intelligente e della sostenibilita sociale ed ambientale – FutureInResearch”. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.9
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:156931 Serial 6227
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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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language 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 (up) 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
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Author Peeters, L.; Schreurs, E.; Van Passel, S.
Title Heterogeneous impact of soil contamination on farmland prices in the Belgian Campine region : evidence from unconditional quantile regressions Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Environmental & Resource Economics Abbreviated Journal Environ Resour Econ
Volume 66 Issue 1 Pages 135-168
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract We estimate a hedonic-pricing model using geo-coded farmland-transaction data from the Campine region, situated in the north-east of Belgium. Unlike previous hedonic studies, we use the method of unconditional quantile regression (Firpo et al., in Econometrica 77(3):953973, 2009). An important advantage of this new method over the traditional conditional quantile regression (Koenker and Bassett, in Econometrica 46(1):3350, 1978) is that it allows for the estimation of potentially heterogeneous effects of cadmium pollution along the entire (unconditional) distribution of farmland prices. Using a threshold specification of the hedonic-pricing model, we find evidence of a U-shaped valuation pattern, where cadmium pollution of the soil has a negative and significant impact on prices only in the middle range of the distribution, insofar as cadmium concentrations are above the regulatory standard of 2 parts per million for agricultural land. Results obtained from a probit model to classify land plots into different price segments further suggest that the heterogeneous impact of soil pollution on price can be directly related to the variety of amenities that farmland provides.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000391511800007 Publication Date 2015-08-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0924-6460 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.582 Times cited (up) 4 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.582
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139029 Serial 6208
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