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Author Compernolle, T.; Van Passel, S.; Weyens, N.; Vangronsveld, J.; Lebbe, L.; Thewys, T.
Title Groundwater remediation and the cost effectiveness of phytoremediation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication International Journal Of Phytoremediation Abbreviated Journal Int J Phytoremediat
Volume 14 Issue 9 Pages 861-877
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract In 1999, phytoremediation was applied at the site of a Belgian car factory to contain two BTEX plumes. This case study evaluates the cost effectiveness of phytoremediation compared to other remediation options, applying a tailored approach for economic evaluation. Generally, when phytoremediation is addressed as being cost effective, the cost effectiveness is only determined on an average basis. This study however, demonstrates that an incremental analysis may provide a more nuanced conclusion. When the cost effectiveness is calculated on an average basis, in this particular case, the no containment strategy (natural attenuation) has the lowest cost per unit mass removed and hence, should be preferred. However, when the cost effectiveness is determined incrementally, no containment should only be preferred if the value of removing an extra gram of contaminant mass is lower than 320. Otherwise, a permeable reactive barrier should be adopted. A similar analysis is provided for the effect determined on the basis of remediation time. Phytoremediation is preferred compared to no containment if reaching the objective one year earlier is worth 7 000.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000304914700004 Publication Date 2012-06-07
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1522-6514 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.77 Times cited (up) 12 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.77; 2012 IF: 1.179
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129862 Serial 6206
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Author Lizin, S.; Van Passel, S.; Schreurs, E.
Title Farmers' perceived cost of land use restrictions : a simulated purchasing decision using discrete choice experiments Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Land Use Policy Abbreviated Journal Land Use Policy
Volume 46 Issue Pages 115-124
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This paper reports on the findings from discrete choice experiments designed to estimate farmers perceived costs of land use restrictions, i.e. crop restrictions, additional fertilizing restrictions, and usage restrictions, as opposed to having no such restrictions. To this end, hypothetical land purchasing decisions were simulated based on the information about productivity, lot size, distance to other land, driving time to home, land use restrictions, and price. Farmers from the Campine area (Belgium) were invited to participate in the survey as the agricultural land in this region still faces the effects of historical heavy metal contamination resulting in crop restrictions. For identical pieces of land, we estimate the perceived cost, calculated as a change in the consumer surplus due to having a land use restriction, to be about 46,000 /ha for the crop restriction, 50,000 /ha for the usage restriction, and 70,000 /ha for the fertilizing restrictions. Assuming this cost to represent a perpetuity, then with a discount rate of 5% the yearly fixed costs respectively equal about 2300 /ha, 2500 /ha, and 3500 /ha.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000356110500010 Publication Date 2015-03-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0264-8377 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.089 Times cited (up) 12 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to thank Boerenbond for their help as well as the farmers for their time in responding to the questionnaire. Additionally, Sebastien Lizin thanks the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for funding his postdoctoral fellowship, allowing him to revise the manuscript. The authors would also like to thank the anonymous reviewers for helping us to improve the quality of our work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.089; 2015 IF: 2.631
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129877 Serial 6203
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Author Moretti, M.; Van Dael, M.; Malina, R.; Van Passel, S.
Title Environmental assessment of waste feedstock mono-dimensional and bio-refinery systems : combining manure co-digestion and municipal waste anaerobic digestion Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Journal Of Cleaner Production Abbreviated Journal J Clean Prod
Volume 171 Issue 171 Pages 954-961
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Organic municipal solid waste (OMSW) as a feedstock for energy recovery and material recycling offers the potential to reduce environmental impacts from energy production while displacing emission intensive waste management strategies such as landfills. This paper quantifies the environmental impact of anaerobic digestion of local, residual biomass. A life-cycle assessment was jointly performed for two scenarios for the biological treatment of local organic municipal solid waste and pig manure in the Netherlands. Scenario 1 was a separate treatment using anaerobic digestion, and Scenario 2 was a bio-refinery system that integrates anaerobic digestion of organic, municipal solid waste, and co digestion of pig manure and other organic co-substrates \. For both scenarios, electricity and heat are generated using a combined heat and power engine. The bio-refinery system (Scenario 2) contribution to climate change resulted in 0.16 Mt CO2 eq./yr, which is lower than the 0.17 Mt CO2 eq./yr of Scenario 1. Both scenarios are found to be beneficial with regard to resource depletion and human toxicity. The integration of organic waste and manure anaerobic digestion has no effect on acidification and terrestrial eutrophication impact categories, resulting in 43.59 AE eq. and 86.33 AE eq. for Scenario 1 and 43.58 AE eq. and 86.30 AE eq. for Scenario 2. Moreover, Scenario 2 yields 18% lower emissions than those from natural gas derived electricity in the Netherlands. The biorefinery system represents an opportunity to improve organic waste-management strategies, at the same time as reducing the environmental impact from energy production and the costs for surplus manure disposal by producing high-quality commodities that can be traded on the market. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000418978100085 Publication Date 2017-10-13
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 (up) 12 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.715
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:148444 Serial 6199
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Author Danthurebandara, M.; Van Passel, S.; Vanderreydt, I.; Van Acker, K.
Title Environmental and economic performance of plasma gasification in Enhanced Landfill Mining Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Waste Management Abbreviated Journal Waste Manage
Volume 45 Issue Pages 458-467
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This paper describes an environmental and economic assessment of plasma gasification, one of the viable candidates for the valorisation of refuse derived fuel from Enhanced Landfill Mining. The study is based on life cycle assessment and life cycle costing. Plasma gasification is benchmarked against conventional incineration, and the study indicates that the process could have significant impact on climate change, human toxicity, particulate matter formation, metal depletion and fossil depletion. Flue gas emission, oxygen usage and disposal of residues (plasmastone) are the major environmental burdens, while electricity production and metal recovery represent the major benefits. Reductions in burdens and improvements in benefits are found when the plasmastone is valorised in building materials instead of landfilling. The study indicates that the overall environmental performance of plasma gasification is better than incineration. The study confirms a trade-off between the environmental and economic performance of the discussed scenarios. Net electrical efficiency and investment cost of the plasma gasification process and the selling price of the products are the major economic drivers.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000364796800050 Publication Date 2015-06-25
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) 12 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to acknowledge the funding of this study by the IWT-O&O ELFM project 'Closing the Circle & Enhanced Landfill Mining as part of the Transition to Sustainable Materials Management' and the valuable discussions with Group Machiels and VITO (Belgium). ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.03; 2015 IF: 3.220
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129875 Serial 6197
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Author De Schepper, E.; Van Passel, S.; Manca, J.; Thewys, T.
Title Combining photovoltaics and sound barriers : a feasibility study Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Renewable Energy Abbreviated Journal Renew Energ
Volume 46 Issue Pages 297-303
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract In the light of global warming, renewables such as solar photovoltaics (PV) are important to decrease greenhouse gas emissions. An important issue regarding implementation of solar panels on large scale, is the limited available area. Therefore, it can be interesting to combine PV with alternative applications, as a ways of not requiring “additional” space. One example is a photovoltaic noise barrier (PVNB), where a noise barrier located along a highway or railway is used as substructure for PV modules. Even though a PVNB is not a novel concept, the absence of economic assessments in literature can be a barrier to their wider implementation. In this paper, a feasibility study of a PVNB in Belgium is conducted, using a cost benefit analysis including a Monte Carlo sensitivity analysis. Besides purely economic aspects, also ecological benefits are monetized. The sensitivity analysis indicates that the ecological benefit of noise reduction, which is valuated using a noise sensitivity depreciation index applied to real estate prices, is of major importance in determining the net present value of the case study. On the contrary, the impact of reducing CO2 emissions seems to be negligible when expressed in monetary terms. The results suggest that the PVNB as a whole and also its separate components -.e. the PV array and the noise barrier can be profitable projects, when ecological benefits are included. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000305169400036 Publication Date 2012-04-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0960-1481 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.357 Times cited (up) 12 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.357; 2012 IF: 2.989
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127555 Serial 6170
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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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000297396700011 Publication Date 2011-09-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited (up) 12 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965; 2011 IF: 2.713
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127560 Serial 6151
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Author 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.
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Corporate Author 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 (up) 13 Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5.715; 2008 IF: 1.362
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:136765 Serial 6232
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Author De Schepper, E.; Van Passel, S.; Lizin, S.
Title Economic benefits of combining clean energy technologies : the case of solar photovoltaics and battery electric vehicles Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication International Journal Of Energy Research Abbreviated Journal Int J Energ Res
Volume 39 Issue 8 Pages 1109-1119
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The combined use of clean technologies can lead amongst other benefits to reduced environmental impacts, improved system efficiencies, better management of land scarcity, and diminishment of the effect of power variability of intermittent clean energy sources. Nonetheless, private investors facing budgetary constraints will only opt to invest in the combination of technologies if the latter is more profitable than the investment in a single technology. The aim of the paper is to provide a systematic model for decision makers that allows them to evaluate the profitability of any random combination of technologies under budgetary constraints, and to compare this profitability with that of the individual projects in isolation. This research goes beyond the state of art in the field of financial management and more specifically in the field of the rationing of capital amongst interdependent projects, by developing a method to calculate the payoff of interdependent projects undertaken together. Moreover, this paper develops a computational model from the investor's point of view, of which the purpose is threefold: First, the model allows to directly compare the economic payoff of individual complementary technologies with the economic payoff of their integrated combination, under budgetary constraints. Second, the model calculates economic synergies labeled benefits of combined technologies' (BOCT) when combining complementary technologies. Third, the model explains the rationalization behind the presence of BOCT. The model exemplifies an ex ante cost benefit analysis developed for business and non-governmental use. A four step methodology is proposed and illustrated by means of a case study of PV solar power and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) for a small Belgian enterprise. Results show that at low electricity prices (<Euro0.112/kWh) it is most profitable to invest in BEVs. When the price of electricity rises (>Euro0.134/kWh), investment in exclusively PV becomes most attractive. In all other cases, it is more profitable to invest in the combination of both technologies. Copyright (c) 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000355732200006 Publication Date 2015-03-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0363-907x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.598 Times cited (up) 14 Open Access
Notes ; Sebastien Lizin would like to thank the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO), grant number 12G5415N, for their funding without which it would have been impossible to review this work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.598; 2015 IF: 2.418
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127535 Serial 6188
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Author De Schepper, E.; Van Passel, S.; Lizin, S.; Achten, W.M.J.; Van Acker, K.
Title Cost-efficient emission abatement of energy and transportation technologies : mitigation costs and policy impacts for Belgium Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Clean Technologies And Environmental Policy Abbreviated Journal Clean Technol Envir
Volume 16 Issue 6 Pages 1107-1118
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract In the light of global warming, this paper develops a framework to compare energy and transportation technologies in terms of cost-efficient GHG emission reduction. We conduct a simultaneous assessment of economic and environmental performances through life cycle costing and life cycle assessment. To calculate the GHG mitigation cost, we create reference systems within the base scenario. Further, we extend the concept of the mitigation cost, allowing (i) comparision of technologies given a limited investment resource, and (ii) evaluation of the direct impact of policy measures by means of the subsidized mitigation cost. The framework is illustrated with a case of solar photovoltaics (PV), grid powered battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and solar powered BEVs for a Belgian small and medium sized enterprise. The study's conclusions are that the mitigation cost of solar PV is high, even though this is a mature technology. The emerging mass produced BEVs on the other hand are found to have a large potential for cost-efficient GHG mitigation as indicated by their low cost of mitigation. Finally, based on the subsidized mitigation cost, we conclude that the current financial stimuli for all three investigated technologies are excessive when compared to the CO2 market value under the EU Emission Trading Scheme.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000339874900010 Publication Date 2014-02-12
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1618-954x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.331 Times cited (up) 14 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.331; 2014 IF: 1.934
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127543 Serial 6175
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Author Zarafshani, K.; Sharafi, L.; Azadi, H.; Van Passel, S.
Title Vulnerability assessment models to drought : toward a conceptual framework Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Sustainability Abbreviated Journal Sustainability-Basel
Volume 8 Issue 6 Pages 1-21
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Drought is regarded as a slow-onset natural disaster that causes inevitable damage to water resources and to farm life. Currently, crisis management is the basis of drought mitigation plans, however, thus far studies indicate that effective drought management strategies are based on risk management. As a primary tool in mitigating the impact of drought, vulnerability assessment can be used as a benchmark in drought mitigation plans and to enhance farmers ability to cope with drought. Moreover, literature pertaining to drought has focused extensively on its impact, only awarding limited attention to vulnerability assessment as a tool. Therefore, the main purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework for designing a vulnerability model in order to assess farmers level of vulnerability before, during and after the onset of drought. Use of this developed drought vulnerability model would aid disaster relief workers by enhancing the adaptive capacity of farmers when facing the impacts of drought. The paper starts with the definition of vulnerability and outlines different frameworks on vulnerability developed thus far. It then identifies various approaches of vulnerability assessment and finally offers the most appropriate model. The paper concludes that the introduced model can guide drought mitigation programs in countries that are impacted the most by drought.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000378776800084 Publication Date 2016-06-23
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) 15 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.789
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:134331 Serial 6278
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Author De Baere, K.; Verstraelen, H.; Rigo, P.; Van Passel, S.; Lenaerts, S.; Potters, G.
Title Study on alternative approaches to corrosion protection of ballast tanks using an economic model Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Marine structures Abbreviated Journal Mar Struct
Volume 32 Issue Pages 1-17
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract One of the most relevant problems in ship construction and maintenance nowadays is corrosion in ballast tanks of modern merchant vessels. On the one hand, there is a general consensus that the economic lifespan of such a vessel depends, to a large degree, upon the corrosion state of its ballast tanks, while on the other hand these ballast tanks, located between the outer hull and the cargo tanks, makes routine inspection and maintenance a difficult task. Today, ship's ballast tanks are usually constructed in steel and protected with an epoxy coating backed up by sacrificial zinc anodes. Such a construction has been applied without significant alterations for many years. The objective of this economic study is to compare this construction method with some potential alternatives. The considered alternatives are: (1) an increase in structural scantlings, eliminating the necessity to replace corroded at a cost of real cargo carrying capacity of the ship, (2) application of the novel and more durable TSCF25 coating (3), the use of corrosion resistant steel in ship construction and (4) a standard PSPC15 coating combined with lifetime lasting aluminum sacrificial anodes. A cost model was used to evaluate these alternative options together with sensitivity analysis. It is concluded that the durable coating and the use of lifetime lasting aluminum anodes are bound to improve the actual basic tank concept. Corrosion resistant steel becomes attractive when the steel price becomes competitive.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000319643500001 Publication Date 2013-03-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0951-8339 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.052 Times cited (up) 15 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.052; 2013 IF: 1.242
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:109346 Serial 6253
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Author Van Passel, S.; Massetti, E.; Mendelsohn, R.
Title A Ricardian analysis of the impact of climate change on European agriculture Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Environmental & Resource Economics Abbreviated Journal Environ Resour Econ
Volume 67 Issue 4 Pages 725-760
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This research estimates the impact of climate on European agriculture using a continental scale Ricardian analysis. Climate, soil, geography and regional socio-economic variables are matched with farm level data from 41,030 farms across Western Europe. We demonstrate that a median quantile regression outperforms OLS given farm level data. The results suggest that European farms are slightly more sensitive to warming than American farms with impacts from +5 to −32 % by 2100 depending on the climate scenario. Farms in Southern Europe are predicted to be particularly sensitive, suffering losses of −5 to −9 % per degree Celsius.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000408358900005 Publication Date 2016-03-05
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) 15 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would kindly want to express their gratitude towards DG AGRI for access to the Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN). Steven Van Passel also thanks FWO for funding his research stay at Yale University. Steven Van Passel is also obliged to the OECD for awarding a fellowship of the co-operative research program `Biological Resource Management for Sustainable Agricultural Systems'. Emanuele Massetti gratefully acknowledges funding from the Marie Curie IOF Cli-EMA “Climate change impacts-Economic modelling and analysis”. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.582
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139041 Serial 6246
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Author de Mey, Y.; Wauters, E.; Schmid, D.; Lips, M.; Vancauteren, M.; Van Passel, S.
Title Farm household risk balancing : empirical evidence from Switzerland Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication European Review Of Agricultural Economics Abbreviated Journal Eur Rev Agric Econ
Volume 43 Issue 4 Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract Empirical evidence on household risk balancing behaviour is presented by estimating a fixed effects seemingly unrelated regression model using Swiss Farm Accountancy Data Network data. We find that in response to changes in expected business risks, Swiss farm households not only make strategic farm financial risk decisions (original risk balancing), but also make strategic off-farm decisions (household risk balancing) by altering their share of off-farm income and relative consumption. Small farms appear to make more use of household risk balancing strategies whereas large farms conversely make more use of the original risk balancing strategy.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000386026600005 Publication Date 2015-11-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0165-1587; 1464-3618 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.6 Times cited (up) 15 Open Access
Notes ; This research was funded by a scholarship from the Agency for Innovation by Science and Technology (IWT) in Flanders. The authors are very grateful to Ludwig Lauwers and Frankwin van Winsen for many helpful discussions. They also thank the editor and two anonymous reviewers for their constructive comments and conference/workshop participants from ART, BAAE, EAAE, KU Leuven and WUR for excellent comments on earlier versions of the article. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Agroscope Institute for Sustainability Sciences ISS. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.6
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:138183 Serial 6202
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Author Danthurebandara, M.; Van Passel, S.; Machiels, L.; Van Acker, K.
Title Valorization of thermal treatment residues in enhanced landfill mining : environmental and economic evaluation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Journal Of Cleaner Production Abbreviated Journal J Clean Prod
Volume 99 Issue Pages 275-285
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Enhanced Landfill Mining is an innovative concept which allows the recovery of land, re-introduction of materials to the material cycles and recovery of energy from a considerably large stock of resources held in landfills. Plasma gasification is a viable candidate for combined energy and material valorization in the framework of Enhanced landfill Mining. Besides energy production, plasma gasification also delivers an environmentally stable vitrified residue called plasmastone, which can be converted into building materials. This paper presents an environmental and economic evaluation of the valorization of thermal treatment residues (plasmastone) in the context of Enhanced Landfill Mining. The most common valorization route, that is, the treatment of plasmastone via production of aggregates, is compared with two other possible, higher added value applications, which are inorganic polymer production and blended cement production. The evaluation is based on life cycle assessment and life cycle costing. The study suggests that the environmental and economic performances of the valorization routes depend mainly on the quality and quantity of the final products produced from a certain amount of plasmastone. The materials with the greatest contribution to potential global warming and to the net present value of the valorization scenarios are the process input materials of sodium silicate, sodium hydroxide and cement. The study concludes that the plasmastone valorization via inorganic polymer production yields higher environmental benefits, while the blended cement production provides higher economic profits. Plasmastone valorization via aggregates production does not yield economic or environmental benefits. Given the trade-off between environmental and economic performances, we conclude that the decisions regarding the selection of appropriate valorization routes should be made cautiously to obtain optimal environmental benefits and economic profits. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000356195000023 Publication Date 2015-03-14
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 (up) 17 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to acknowledge the funding of this study by the IWT-O&O ELFM project 'Closing the Circle & Enhanced Landfill Mining as part of the Transition to Sustainable Materials Management' and the valuable discussions with Group Machiels (Belgium). ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.715; 2015 IF: 3.844
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127533 Serial 6276
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Author Van Schoubroeck, S.; Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.; Malina, R.
Title A review of sustainability indicators for biobased chemicals Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 94 Issue 94 Pages 115-126
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Companies dealing with chemical products have to cope with large amounts of waste and environmental risk due to the use and production of toxic substances. Against this background, increasing attention is being paid to green chemistry and the translation of this concept into biobased chemicals. Given the multitude of economic, environmental and societal impacts that the production and use of biobased chemicals have on sustainability, assessment approaches need to be developed that allow for measurement and comparison of these impacts. To evaluate sustainability in the context of policy and decision-making, indicators are generally accepted means. However, sustainability indicators currently predominantly exist for low-value applications in the bioeconomy, like bioenergy and biofuels. In this paper, a review of the state-of-the-art sustainability indicators for biobased chemicals is conducted and a gap analysis is performed to identify indicator development needs. Based on the analysis, a clear hierarchy within the concept of sustainability is found where the environmental aspect dominates over economic and social indicators. All one-dimensional indicator-sets account for environmental impacts (50%), whereas two-dimensional sets complement the environmental issues with economic indicators (34%). Moreover, even the sets encompassing all three sustainability dimensions (16%) do not account for the dynamics and interlinkages between the environment, economy and society. Using results from the literature review, an indicator list is presented that captures all indicators currently used within sustainability assessment of biobased chemicals. Finally, a framework is proposed for future indicator selection using a stakeholder survey to obtain a prioritized list of sustainability indicators for biobased chemicals.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000446310000008 Publication Date 2018-06-07
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited (up) 17 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:154140 Serial 6244
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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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000314187900001 Publication Date 2010-07-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
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 (up) 17 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.167; 2013 IF: 1.692
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127553 Serial 6204
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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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
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 (up) 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
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Author Ang, F.; Van Passel, S.
Title The sustainable value approach : a clarifying and constructive comment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2010 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 69 Issue 12 Pages 2303-2306
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract Recently, the original benchmarking methodology of the Sustainable Value approach became subjected to serious debate. While Kuosmanen and Kuosmanen (2009b) critically question its validity introducing productive efficiency theory, Figge and Hahn (2009) put forward that the implementation of productive efficiency theory severely conflicts with the original financial economics perspective of the Sustainable Value approach. We argue that the debate is very confusing because the original Sustainable Value approach presents two largely incompatible objectives. Nevertheless, we maintain that both ways of benchmarking could provide useful and moreover complementary insights. If one intends to present the overall resource efficiency of the firm from the investor's viewpoint, we recommend the original benchmarking methodology. If one on the other hand aspires to create a prescriptive tool setting up some sort of reallocation scheme, we advocate implementation of the productive efficiency theory. Although the discussion on benchmark application is certainly substantial, we should avoid the debate to become accordingly narrowed. Next to the benchmark concern, we see several other challenges considering the development of the Sustainable Value approach: (1) a more systematic resource selection, (2) the inclusion of the value chain and (3) additional analyses related to policy in order to increase interpretative power.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000283700900001 Publication Date 2010-07-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited (up) 18 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.965; 2010 IF: 2.754
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:136760 Serial 6258
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Author Van Dael, M.; Marquez, N.; Reumerman, P.; Pelkmans, L.; Kuppens, T.; Van Passel, S.
Title Development and techno-economic evaluation of a biorefinery based on biomass (waste) streams : case study in the Netherlands Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Biofuels Bioproducts & Biorefining-Biofpr Abbreviated Journal Biofuel Bioprod Bior
Volume 8 Issue 5 Pages 635-644
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract In this paper, the technical and economic advantages of combining conversion technologies into a multi-dimensional plant primarily using regional biomass residues are investigated. The main objective is to show how locally available biomass can be used more efficiently as a source for renewable energy and bio-based products. Therefore, not only is the theoretical perspective considered, but also a reality check for the local situation is taken into account. Although industrial attitude toward biorefineries is positive, the efficient production of a portfolio of bio-based products has not yet been implemented. A biorefinery concept for Moerdijk (the Netherlands) was developed, focusing on grass refining, production of pyrolysis oil, biodiesel production, and bio-LNG production. Grass refining is the most experimental technique of all proposed conversion techniques. In terms of development, pyrolysis oil and bio-LNG production are in the demonstration phase. Anaerobic digestion and biodiesel production are proven techniques. It is shown that this concept allows for synergies with regard to the utilization of residue flows from internal processes. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that by integrating different conversion technologies, an economically feasible concept can be developed in which technologies, currently residing in a demonstration phase, can also be brought to the market. (c) 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000342662200015 Publication Date 2013-11-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1932-104x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.694 Times cited (up) 18 Open Access
Notes ; We would like to thank the editor and the anonymous referees for their helpful suggestions and insightful comments that have significantly improved the paper. The Energy Conversion Parks (ECP) project is funded by the Interreg IVa – Flanders-Netherlands program from the European Fund for Regional Development that stimulates cross-border projects. Also the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Flemish Government, the Provinces of Noord-Brabant (NL), Zeeland (NL), Limburg (BE) and the partners (VITO, Avans University of Applied Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Hasselt University, and Zeeland University of Applied Sciences) themselves are co-financing the project. We also would like to express our gratitude toward the organization of the 2nd Iberoamerican Congress on Biorefineries in Jaen (Spain) for giving us the opportunity to present and thereby fine-tune our work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.694; 2014 IF: 4.214
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127541 Serial 6180
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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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000281107200045 Publication Date 2010-05-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
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 (up) 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
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Author Srivastava, A.; Van Passel, S.; Laes, E.
Title Assessing the success of electricity demand response programs : a meta-analysis Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Energy Research and Social Science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 40 Issue 40 Pages 110-117
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This paper conducts a meta-analysis of 32 electricity demand response programs in the residential sector to understand whether their success is dependent on specific characteristics. The paper analyses several regression models using various combinations of variables that capture the designs of the programs and the socio-economic conditions in which the programs are implemented. The analysis reveals that demand response programs are more likely to succeed in highly urbanized areas, in areas where economic growth rates are high, and in areas where the renewable energy policy is favorable. These findings provide useful guidance in determining where and how to implement future demand response programs.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000430737800014 Publication Date 2017-12-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2214-6296 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited (up) 18 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:149027 Serial 6154
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Author Maes, D.; Van Passel, S.
Title Advantages and limitations of exergy indicators to assess sustainability of bioenergy and biobased materials Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Environmental Impact Assessment Review Abbreviated Journal Environ Impact Asses
Volume 45 Issue Pages 19-29
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Innovative bioenergy projects show a growing diversity in biomass pathways, transformation technologies and end-products, leading to complex new processes. Existing energy-based indicators are not designed to include multiple impacts and are too constrained to assess the sustainability of these processes. Alternatively, indicators based on exergy, a measure of “qualitative energy”, could allow a more holistic view. Exergy is increasingly applied in analyses of both technical and biological processes. But sustainability assessments including exergy calculations, are not very common and are not generally applicable to all types of impact. Hence it is important to frame the use of exergy for inclusion in a sustainability assessment. This paper reviews the potentials and the limitations of exergy calculations, and presents solutions for coherent aggregation with other metrics. The resulting approach is illustrated in a case study. Within the context of sustainability assessment of bioenergy, exergy is a suitable metric for the impacts that require an ecocentric interpretation, and it allows aggregation on a physical basis. The use of exergy is limited to a measurement of material and energy exchanges with the sun, biosphere and lithosphere. Exchanges involving services or human choices are to be measured in different metrics. This combination provides a more inclusive and objective sustainability assessment, especially compared to standard energy- or carbon-based indicators. Future applications of this approach in different situations are required to clarify the potential of exergy-based indicators in a sustainability context. (C) 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000331924600003 Publication Date 2013-12-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0195-9255 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.094 Times cited (up) 18 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.094; 2014 IF: 2.400
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127545 Serial 6147
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Author Lizin, S.; Leroy, J.; Delvenne, C.; Dijk, M.; De Schepper, E.; Van Passel, S.
Title A patent landscape analysis for organic photovoltaic solar cells : identifying the technology's development phase Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Renewable Energy Abbreviated Journal Renew Energ
Volume 57 Issue Pages 5-11
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Organic photovoltaics (OPV) have developed into a vast research area. Progress in various directions has made it difficult to monitor the technology's precise development state. We offer a patent landscape analysis over all OPV devices, their substrates and encapsulation materials to provide an overview of patenting activity from a historical, organizational, geographical and technological point of view. Such an exercise is instrumental for private companies and research institutes aiming at both internal or external technology creation. We discuss our findings in the context of the Industrial Life Cycle model and find OPV still residing in the fluid technology development phase. Technology development is still following an exponential growth path, with the majority of patents coming from the Asian continent and in general private companies. For devices, the main technological focus can be traced back to the “H01L-031” international patent classification (IPC) main group. For the queried substrates, the most attention has gone to glass, but paper and textile have drawn significant interest too. Finally, encapsulation is found to be a less mature research field given the smaller number of patent families. The latter shows that the technology has not matured to the level where processing is carried out on a commercial scale. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000319025000002 Publication Date 2013-02-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0960-1481 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.357 Times cited (up) 18 Open Access
Notes ; The authors are much obliged to INTERREG for their financial support of the ORGANEXT project (www.organext.org), without which it would have been impossible to conduct this research. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.357; 2013 IF: 3.361
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127551 Serial 6143
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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.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000289605900014 Publication Date 2010-04-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
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 (up) 19 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.52; 2011 IF: 3.487
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127561 Serial 6152
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Author Lizin, S.; Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.; Van Dael, M.
Title Battery pack recycling : behaviour change interventions derived from an integrative theory of planned behaviour study Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 122 Issue Pages 66-82
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Belgium has passed the 45% cap, mandated by the European Union, by achieving a collection rate of over 50% in 2012. Having such a collection rate, Belgium is amongst the frontrunners in battery recycling in Europe. However, despite the efforts, about 40% of used batteries are still not properly collected. Particularly troublesome according to the national producer responsibility organization are the battery packs. In this paper we therefore investigate the drivers and barriers to battery pack drop-off intention perceived by Belgian households using an integrative model based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour. An R2 of 0.64 was found, which according to the literature on partial least squares structural equation modelling signals a moderate yet very close to substantial coefficient of determination. We find that on average perceived behavioural control and moral norms have the largest influence on the intention to drop-off used battery packs as quickly as possible. Based on the insights gained, recommendations are made for both behaviour change interventions and future research.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000401881300007 Publication Date 2017-02-15
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; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.313 Times cited (up) 21 Open Access
Notes ; The corresponding author wishes to thank the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for granting him a postdoctoral grant [grant number: 12G5415N]. Furthermore, the second author wishes to express her gratitude for funding her to the SUMMA policy platform. Furthermore, we wish to express our sincere gratitude to Peter Coonen and Nele Peeters of Bebat for their time and willingness to share information with us. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.313
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:140681 Serial 6159
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Author Thomassen, G.; Van Dael, M.; Lemmens, B.; Van Passel, S.
Title A review of the sustainability of algal-based biorefineries : towards an integrated assessment framework Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 68 Issue 2 Pages 876-887
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Algal-based bioenergy products have faced multiple economic and environmental problems. To counter these problems, algal-based biorefineries have been proposed as a promising solution. Multiple environmental and economic assessments have analyzed this concept. However, a wide variation in results was reported. This study performs a review to evaluate the methodological reasons behind this variation. Based on this review, four main challenges for a sustainability assessment were identified: 1) the use of a clear framework; 2) the adaptation of the methodology to all stages of technological maturity; 3) the use of harmonized assumptions; 4) the integration of the technological process. A generic methodology, based on the integration of a techno-economic assessment methodology and a streamlined life cycle assessment was proposed. This environmental techno-economic assessment can be performed following an iterative approach during each stage of technology development. In this way, crucial technological parameters can be directly identified and evaluated during the maturation of the technology. The use of this assessment methodology can therefore act as guidance to decrease the time-to-market for innovative and sustainable technologies.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000391899400005 Publication Date 2016-03-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited (up) 23 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139038 Serial 6245
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Author Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.; Pelkmans, L.; Guisson, R.; Swinnen, G.; Schreurs, E.
Title Determining potential locations for biomass valorization using a macro screening approach Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal Biomass Bioenerg
Volume 45 Issue Pages 175-186
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract European policy states that by 2020 at least 20% of final energy consumption should come from renewable energy sources. Biomass as a renewable energy source cannot be disregarded in order to attain this target. In this study a macro screening approach is developed to determine potential locations for biomass valorization in a specified region. The approach consists of five steps: (1) criteria determination, (2) data gathering, (3) weight assignment, (4) final score, (5) spatial representation. The resulting outcome provides a first well balanced scan of the possibilities for energy production using regional biomass. This way policy makers and investors can be supported and motivated to study the possibilities of building energy production plants at specific locations in more detail, which can be described as a 'micro-screening'. In our case study the approach is applied to determine the potentially interesting locations to establish a biomass project. The region has been limited to the forty-four communities in the province of Limburg (Belgium). The macro screening approach has shown to be very effective since the amount of interesting locations has been reduced drastically. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000308384500019 Publication Date 2012-06-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0961-9534 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.219 Times cited (up) 23 Open Access
Notes ; The authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support from INTERREG and the province of Limburg. Special thanks to our colleague Thomas Voets for his effort in making the GIS maps. Moreover, the authors would like to thank the two anonymous reviewers for their valuable comments. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.219; 2012 IF: 2.975
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127554 Serial 6178
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Author Thomassen, G.; Egiguren Vila, U.; Van Dael, M.; Lemmens, B.; Van Passel, S.
Title A techno-economic assessment of an algal-based biorefinery Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Clean Technologies And Environmental Policy Abbreviated Journal Clean Technol Envir
Volume 18 Issue 6 Pages 1849-1862
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Economic and technological assessments have identified difficulties with the commercialization of bulk products from microalgae, like biofuels. To overcome these problems, a multi-product algal-based biorefinery has been proposed. This paper performs a techno-economic assessment of such a biorefinery. Four production pathways, ranging from a base case with commercial technologies to an improved case with innovative technologies, are analyzed. All region-specific parameters were adapted to Belgian conditions. Three scenarios result in techno-economically viable production plants. The most profitable scenario is the scenario which uses a specialized membrane for medium recycling and an open pond algae cultivation. Although the inclusion of a photobioreactor decreases the culture medium costs, the higher investment costs result in lower economic profits. The carotenoid content and price are identified as critical parameters. Furthermore, the economies of scale assumption for the photobioreactor is critical for the feasibility of this cultivation technology. The techno-economic assessment is an important methodology to guide and evaluate further improvements in research and shorten the time-to-market for innovative technologies in this field.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000384470700017 Publication Date 2016-03-26
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1618-954x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.331 Times cited (up) 24 Open Access
Notes ; We would like to thank Herman Beckers, Metin Bulut, Frans Snijkers, Joris van der Have, Jan Vanderheyden, Leen Bastiaens, and Lies Eykens for the provision of technological and economic data and the useful discussions on the assumptions in the model. We would also like to thank Eva Cordery for proofreading the article and the anonymous reviewers for their valuable feedback and suggestions. Furthermore, we gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Fundacion Novia Salcedo. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.331
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139027 Serial 6262
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Author Lizin, S.; Van Passel, S.; De Schepper, E.; Vranken, L.
Title The future of organic photovoltaic solar cells as a direct power source for consumer electronics Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Solar Energy Materials And Solar Cells Abbreviated Journal Sol Energ Mat Sol C
Volume 103 Issue Pages 1-10
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract As the search for marketable photovoltaic solar cells continues, organic photovoltaic (OPV) solar cells have been identified as a technology with many attractive features for commercialization. Most photovoltaic technologies on the market today were improved in the consumer electronics market segment. A similar evolution has been envisioned for OPV. Hence this paper investigates consumer preferences for solar cells directly powering consumer electronics. Choice experiments were designed and responses were collected using a random sample of 300 individuals from the Flemish region (northern part of Belgium). Results allow for computation of attribute importance, willingness to pay (WTP), and simulation of theoretical market share. These measures point towards OPV being able to reach considerable market share in the long run, bearing in mind that efforts are first needed in elevating OPV's efficiency and lifetime as they most determine consumers' preferences. Price is found to be the least important product characteristic for OPV solar cells to be incorporated in consumer electronics devices. We therefore warn against generalizing attributes' importance across the boundaries of market segments. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000306044300001 Publication Date 2012-05-03
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) 25 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would kindly want to express their gratitude towards every survey respondent and participant for their preliminary work. Also the authors are much obliged to INTERREG and the ORGANEXT project for their financial support, without which it would have been impossible to conduct this research. Last but not least, we would like to thank the reviewers for their insightful comments which allowed for fine tuning our work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.784; 2012 IF: 4.630
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127556 Serial 6267
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Author Meul, M.; Van Middelaar, C.E.; de Boer, I.J.M.; Van Passel, S.; Fremaut, D.; Haesaert, G.
Title Potential of life cycle assessment to support environmental decision making at commercial dairy farms Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Agricultural Systems Abbreviated Journal Agr Syst
Volume 131 Issue Pages 105-115
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract In this paper, we evaluate the potential of life cycle assessment (LCA) to support environmental decision making at commercial dairy farms. To achieve this, we follow a four-step method that allows converting environmental assessment results using LCA into case-specific advice for farmers. This is illustrated in a case-study involving 20 specialized Flemish dairy farms. Calculated LCA indicators are normalized into scores between 0 and 100, whereby a score of 100 is assumed optimal, to allow for a mutual comparison of indicators for different environmental impact categories. Next, major farm and management characteristics affecting environmental performance are identified using multiple regression and correlation analyses. Finally, comparing specific farm and management characteristics with those of best performing farms identifies farm-specific optimization strategies. We conclude that this approach complies with most of the identified critical success factors for the successful implementation of LCA as a decision support system for farmers. Key aspects herein are (i) the flexibility and accessibility of the model, (ii) the use of readily available farm data, (iii) farm advisors being intended model users, (iv) the identification of key farm and management characteristics affecting environmental performance and (v) the organization of discussion sessions involving farmers and farm advisors. However, attention should be paid (i) to provide sufficient training and guidance for farm advisors on the use of the applied LCA model and the interpretation of results, (ii) to evaluate the correctness of the used data and (iii) to keep the model up-to-date according to new scientific insights and knowledge concerning LCA methodology. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000343955300011 Publication Date 2014-09-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0308-521x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.571 Times cited (up) 25 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.571; 2014 IF: 2.906
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127540 Serial 6238
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