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Author Thomassen, G.; Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.
Title The potential of microalgae biorefineries in Belgium and India : an environmental techno-economic assessment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Bioresource Technology Abbreviated Journal Bioresource Technol
Volume 267 Issue 267 Pages 271-280
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This study performs an environmental techno-economic assessment (ETEA) for multiple microalgae biorefinery concepts at different locations, those being Belgium and India. The ETEA methodology, which integrates aspects of the TEA and LCA methodologies and provides a clear framework for an integrated assessment model, has been proposed and discussed. The scenario in India has a higher profitability with a NPV of (sic)40 million over a period of 10 years, while the environmental impact in Belgium is lower. The inclusion of a medium recycling step provides the best scenario from both perspectives. The crucial parameters for feasibility are the beta-caroteneprice and content, the upstream environmental impact of electricity and the maximum biomass concentration during cultivation. The identification of these parameters by the ETEA guides future technology developments and shortens the time-to-market for microalgal-based biorefineries.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000441876100034 Publication Date 2018-07-10
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0960-8524 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.651 Times cited 8 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.651
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153599 Serial 6270
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Author Vasilakou, K.; Nimmegeers, P.; Thomassen, G.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.
Title Assessing the future of second-generation bioethanol by 2030 : a techno-economic assessment integrating technology learning curves Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Applied energy Abbreviated Journal
Volume 344 Issue Pages 121263-15
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract Lignocellulosic biomass is the most abundant source of renewable biomass and is seen as a high-potential replacement for petroleum-based resources. The conversion technologies to advanced biofuels are still at a low maturity level, thus allowing for future cost reductions through technological learning. This fact is barely considered in state-of-the-art techno-economic assessments and a structured approach to account for technological learning in techno-economic assessments is needed. In this study, a framework for techno-economic assessments of advanced biofuels, integrating learning curves, is proposed. As a validation of this framework, the economic feasibility of the valorization of corn stover for the production of second-generation bioethanol in Belgium is studied. Process flowsheet simulations in Aspen Plus are developed, with an emphasis on the comparison of four different pretreatment technologies and two plant capacities at 156 dry kt biomass/y and 667 dry kt/y. The dilute acid pretreatment model of the large-scale biorefinery required the lowest minimum learning rate to reach an economically feasible biorefinery by 2030, being 3.9%, almost half as the one calculated for the smaller scale plant. This learning rate seems to be achievable based on learning rates commonly estimated in literature. We conclude that there is a potential for advanced ethanol production in Belgium under the current state of technology for large-scale biorefineries, which require additional biomass imports, when accounting for future cost reductions through learning
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001007488700001 Publication Date 2023-05-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0306-2619 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 11.2 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 11.2; 2023 IF: 7.182
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:196509 Serial 9186
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Author Zewdie, M.C.; Van Passel, S.; Moretti, M.; Annys, S.; Tenessa, D.B.; Ayele, Z.A.; Tsegaye, E.A.; Cools, J.; Minale, A.S.; Nyssen, J.
Title Pathways how irrigation water affects crop revenue of smallholder farmers in northwest Ethiopia: A mixed approach Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Agricultural Water Management Abbreviated Journal Agr Water Manage
Volume 233 Issue Pages 106101
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The relationship between irrigation water availability and crop revenue is multifaceted. However, most of the previous studies focused only on the direct effect of irrigation water on crop revenue or considered that the indirect effect passes only through the farmers’ improved farm inputs usage. Nevertheless, unlike previous studies, this study argues that a one-sided argument that irrigation water directly causes high crop revenue or indirectly affects crop revenue only via the farmers’ improved farm inputs usage is incomplete, as irrigation water not only directly contributes to crop revenue but also indirectly conduces to crop revenue via both the type of crops produced and the farmers’ improved farm inputs usage. Considering the previous studies’ limitations, this study investigates pathways how small-scale irrigation water affects crop revenue and identifies challenges of small-scale irrigation farming in Fogera district, Ethiopia. Results endorsed that irrigation water has both direct and indirect effects on crop revenue. The indirect effect is 67 percent of the total effect and it is mediated by both the type of crops produced and farmers’ improved farm inputs usage. The result also indicated that irrigation user farmers have a higher income, more livestock assets and resources and better food, housing, and cloths than the non-users. Moreover, challenges related to agricultural output and input market were identified as the most severe problem followed by crop disease. The findings of our study suggest that to utilize the benefits of irrigation water properly, it is crucial to encourage farmers to use more improved farm inputs and to shift from staple to cash crop production. Moreover, farmers are frequently exposed to cheating by illegal brokers in the output market, therefore it is also important to increase farmers’ accessibility to output and input markets, the quality of improved farm inputs, and the bargaining power of farmers with market information.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000525291200025 Publication Date 2020-02-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0378-3774 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.7 Times cited Open Access
Notes Bahir Dar University – Institutional University Cooperation; Approved Most recent IF: 6.7; 2020 IF: 2.848
Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:167592 Serial 6353
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Author De Weerdt, L.; De Jaeger, S.; Compernolle, T.; Van Passel, S.
Title How an incineration tax changes waste management practices among firms Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2022 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 180 Issue Pages 106172
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract Sustainable management of industrial plastic waste is crucial in the transition to a circular economy. Today, most industrial plastic waste is incinerated, whereas it could be recycled. As a consequence, governments increasingly make use of incineration taxes to improve current waste management practices. This paper presents an econometric panel analysis that studies the effects of an incineration tax on industrial plastic waste in Flanders (Belgium). Not only is this study the first econometric analysis on industrial plastic waste management in which firm heterogeneity is explicitly taken into account by including firm-specific characteristics, but this study also provides policymakers with insights into the effectiveness of an incineration tax to change current waste management practices. Empirical estimates imply that heterogeneous firms generate industrial plastic waste in different ways and that heterogeneous firms reduce their waste generation in different ways after the incineration tax rate increases. The estimates also show that the unique decrease of the incineration tax in 2007, did not change waste management practices. These estimates show that firms do not disinvest or indicate that loss aversion theory, i.e. a preference for avoiding losses over acquiring equivalent gains, might apply to firms that are faced with environmental taxation in a waste management context.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2022-01-19
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2
Call Number ENM @ enm @ Serial 7256
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Author Biely, K.; Van Passel, S.
Title Market power and sustainability : a new research agenda Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Discover Sustainability Abbreviated Journal
Volume 3 Issue 1 Pages 5-13
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Perfectly operating markets only exist in theory. Market failures are known to not only inhibit the proper functioning of the market, but also affect sustainability and thus a sustainability transition. In this regard, much attention has been paid to externalities or missing markets, even though these are not the only market failures. In this paper, we argue that market power and its relationship with sustainability has been neglected, despite the fact that, back in 1931, Hotelling indicated the connection between the two concepts. However, research that has been dealing with this connection has not been comprehensive and has only looked at one aspect of sustainability and market power. Due to the rising relevance of market power as well as of sustainability concerns, the connection between the two deserves thorough attention. Accordingly, we propose initiating a new interdisciplinary research agenda to comprehensively analyze the complex relationship between market power and sustainability.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000934090500003 Publication Date 2022-02-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2662-9984 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:195360 Serial 7362
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Author Finizola e Silva, M.; Van Schoubroeck, S.; Cools, J.; Aboge, D.O.; Ouma, M.; Olweny, C.; Van Passel, S.
Title Local actors' perspectives on sustainable food value chains : evidence from a Q-methodology study in Kenya Type Administrative Services
Year 2024 Publication Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences Abbreviated Journal
Volume 14 Issue 1 Pages 36-51
Keywords Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Governments and international organizations are increasingly determined to create more sustainable food value chains (SFVCs). However, only little empirical evidence is available on how SFVCs are understood. Enquiring African food value chain actors allows gathering valuable insights into their perception of sustainability, which characteristics of sustainable food value chains they prioritize, and which obstacles to a sustainable transformation they identify. By means of a Q-methodology involving interviews with 33 Kenyan respondents, four perspectives were distinguished. The first perspective, “economic productivity and growth,” prioritizes economic growth and has only limited attention to the social dimension of sustainability. The second perspective, “food security and food availability,” believes that ensuring food security should be the key goal of SFVCs. The third perspective, “environment first,” is dedicated to the environmental dimension of sustainability; the perspective implies that protecting natural resources is the primary way to sustain this level of production. The fourth perspective, “transformative knowledge,” entails that by innovating and sharing knowledge, food value chains can become more sustainable in different areas. Overall, this study provides reliable insights into how Kenyan food value chain actors perceive sustainability in their sector and which elements they believe should be prioritized when rethinking food systems. The study results are valuable for policy-making to further define an SFVC in Kenya and to pave the way for a sustainable transformation of the food sector in developing countries.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001063371200001 Publication Date 2023-09-11
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2190-6483 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:199200 Serial 9210
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Author Tessema, G.A.; van der Borg, J.; Minale, A.S.; Van Rompaey, A.; Adgo, E.; Nyssen, J.; Asrese, K.; Van Passel, S.; Poesen, J.
Title Inventory and assessment of geosites for geotourism development in the eastern and southeastern Lake Tana Region, Ethiopia Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Geoheritage Abbreviated Journal Geoheritage
Volume 13 Issue 2 Pages 43
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Geotourism is a niche form of sustainable tourism that focuses on the geological and geomorphological features of an area, and the associated culture and biodiversity. Geosites are important resources for geotourism development. The eastern and southeastern Lake Tana region in Ethiopia has several geosites with a potential for geotourism development. Despite the diversity of potential geosites and the strategic location of the area in the Northern Tourist Circuit of Ethiopia, only a few attractions such as Lake Tana and the Blue Nile Falls are currently being visited. The objective of this paper is twofold: to inventory geosites in the eastern and southeastern Lake Tana region and assess their potential for geotourism development; and to propose a geosite inventory and assessment methodology for geotourism purposes with adaptations from previous studies. Several studies were reviewed and finally nine of them used as the main references to prepare the criteria, indicators, and sub-indicators for this study. The indicators used for assessing the potential of geosites relate to scientific, educational, scenic, recreational, protection, functional, and ecological values. This research presents the first inventory of geosites in the Lake Tana basin. A first list of 120 geosites has been inventoried. Further screening and clustering resulted in 61 geosites, of which 17 are viewpoints. Among the major geosites are waterfalls, a lake with islands and island monasteries, a flood plain, caves and cave churches, lava tubes, a mountain (shield volcano), volcanic plugs, volcanic cones, rock-hewn churches, and viewpoints. Quantitative assessment of the geotouristic potential of these geosites revealed that clustered (complex area) geosites received higher scientific, scenic, and recreational value scores.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000646574000002 Publication Date 2021-05-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1867-2477 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.472 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 1.472
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178962 Serial 6933
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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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Corporate Author Thesis
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 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 Rafiaani, P.; Dikopoulou, Z.; Van Dael, M.; Kuppens, T.; Azadi, H.; Lebailly, P.; Van Passel, S.
Title Identifying Social Indicators for Sustainability Assessment of CCU Technologies: A Modified Multi-criteria Decision Making Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Social Indicators Research Abbreviated Journal Soc Indic Res
Volume 147 Issue 1 Pages 15-44
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies capture CO2 waste emissions and utilize them to generate new products (such as fuels, chemicals, and materials) with various environmental, economic, and social opportunities. As most of these CCU technologies are in the R&D stage, their technical and economic viability are examined with less attention to the social aspect which is an important pillar for a holistic sustainability assessment. The lack of systematic social impact research is mainly due to the difficulty of identifying and quantifying social aspects through the entire life cycle of products. We will fill this gap for CCU technologies and identify the main social indicators. A multi-criteria decision making tool: TOPSIS (technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution) was applied to empirically determine which indicators are more relevant for assessing the social impact of a company operating CCU activities within a European context. First, seeing that social impact categories are linked to key stakeholder groups, we considered workers, consumers, and local communities as relevant stakeholders. Second, the main social impact categories and their potential performance indicators associated to each group of stakeholders were listed using the United Nations Environment Program/Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (UNEP/SETAC) guidelines. In the third step, an online questionnaire was distributed to identify the main social categories and indicators for CCU, to which 33 European CCU experts responded. Finally, a modified TOPSIS was applied to rank the indicators based on their relevance. We found that the indicators related to “end of life responsibility” and “transparency” within a CCU company achieved the highest rank affecting the consumers group, whereas “fair salary” and “equal opportunities/discriminations” were determined as the most relevant impact categories for the workers. For the local community group, “secure living conditions” and “local employment” received the highest priority from the experts’ point of view. Furthermore, “health and safety” considerations were identified as one of the most important criteria affecting all three groups of stakeholders. The ranking list of the main social indicators identified in our study provides the basis for the next steps in the social sustainability assessment of CCU technologies; that is, data collection and impact assessment. Our outcomes can also be used to inform the producers regarding the most and least relevant social aspects of CCU so that the potential social impacts caused by their production activities can be improved or prevented.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000511863600002 Publication Date 2019-07-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0303-8300 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.743 Times cited Open Access
Notes We would also like to thank James Morrison from the JamesEdits agency for proof reading and editing the article. Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:166591 Serial 6354
Permanent link to this record
 
 
Author Admasu, W.F.; Van Passel, S.; Minale, A.S.; Tsegaye, E.A.; Nyssen, J.
Title Nexus between land development and the value of ecosystem services in Ethiopia : a contingent valuation study Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-21
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract In Ethiopia, the state owns all lands within the territory of the country. Cities are incorporating large parcels of land from their surrounding rural agricultural areas through land expropriation. However, these land developments do not consider the nonmarket value of ecosystem services (ES), which is causing a deterioration of the existing ES and reduction on the potential supply of ES from agricultural land. The aim of this study was to estimate the monetary value of nonmarketable ES from the agricultural land using a double-bounded dichotomous choice contingent valuation method. A survey of 524 smallholder farmers was conducted. In the survey, respondents were asked to state their willingness to pay for the improvement of some of the nonmarketable ES: erosion control, air and climate regulation, water regulation, and soil fertility. The estimation was carried out using a bivariate probit model. The results revealed that farmers are willing to pay on average 276 ETB (7.9 USD) per hectare per year for a period of 10 years. We found that individual characteristics such as age, family size, and a recent land expropriation experience adversely affect the willingness to pay by the farmers. On the other hand, individuals with higher income and larger land size are willing to pay more. In general, the study indicated that the nonmarket ES, which are affected by the land expropriation for urban expansion, are valuable for the farmers. Therefore, we recommend that the government consider the value of nonmarketable ES in its land use decisions and hence achieve sustainable land development.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000907898700002 Publication Date 2023-01-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1387-585x; 1573-2975 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access: Available from 05.01.2024
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.9; 2023 IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:193432 Serial 7363
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Author Naderi Mahdei, K.; Esfahani, S.M.J.; Lebailly, P.; Dogot, T.; Van Passel, S.; Azadi, H.
Title Environmental impact assessment and efficiency of cotton : the case of Northeast Iran Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-21
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Cotton is one of the important crops that play an important role in creating a livelihood for rural people in many parts of Iran. Cotton production necessitates a large amount of resources (e.g., fossil energy and agrochemicals, all of which have the potential to damage the environment in various ways). The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the environmental effects of cotton production in the South Khorasan Province of Iran. For this purpose, life cycle assessment (LCA) and data envelopment analysis (DEA) techniques have been applied to investigate the environmental impacts of cotton production. LCA is a practical method to evaluate the environment on the product flow, in which all aspects of the product life cycle are examined by a comprehensive approach. Furthermore, combining the LCA method with other managerial strategies such as DEA could allow researchers to provide decision-makers with more practical and interpretable data. The findings of the efficiency test showed that the average technical efficiency, pure technical efficiency, and scale efficiency were 0.81, 0.92, and 0.87, respectively. Respiratory inorganics (i.e., respiratory effects resulting from winter smog caused by emissions of dust, sulfur, and nitrogen oxides to air) posed the greatest environmental burden in cotton production, followed by non-renewable energy, carcinogens, and global warming. In addition, the highest effects were on human health, and then, on resources and climate change. Energy, on-system pollution, and waste played a crucial role in the environmental impacts of cotton processing. This study suggests improving farmers' knowledge toward the optimum application of chemical fertilizers, or their substitution with green fertilizers, which reduces the environmental effect of growing cotton in the area.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000826851400001 Publication Date 2022-07-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1387-585x; 1573-2975 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.9
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189630 Serial 7356
Permanent link to this record
 
 
Author Berihun, D.; Van Passel, S.
Title Climate variability and macroeconomic output in Ethiopia : the analysis of nexus and impact via asymmetric autoregressive distributive lag cointegration method Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Ethiopia showed a rapid, yet, a none resilient economic growth much threatened by climate variability. In Ethiopia, the adverse effects of climate variability are stipulated among the significant factors constraining its economic development. There are relatively few studies about the adverse effects of climate variability on the Ethiopian macroeconomy. In this context, little is known about the exact effects of the ongoing climate variability on Ethiopian macroeconomic growth. This study intends to examine whether climate variability factors, for instance rainfall and temperature, have an effect on the macroeconomic output of Ethiopia. An asymmetric autoregressive distributive lag cointegration method is used to investigate time-series data for the years 1950-2014. Diagnostic tests show the relevance of the applied method and robustness of our results. The study finds climate variability affects Ethiopia's economic growth in the long run. Rainfall and temperature fluctuation induce significant negative impacts. A percentage annual temperature variability for instance decreases the Ethiopian annual gross domestic yield (GDP) up to 4.5 percent. In the short run, climate variability particularly rainfall and temperature changes also have a profound effect on Ethiopia's economic output. Within such confirmed climate change impacts, Ethiopia should carry out more on adapting and mitigating the impacts as it is presented on its climate-resilient economic growth policies and strategies. In spite of the policy contribution of the results, the study will motivate further research and will also serve as a benchmark for the coming Ethiopian studies.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000670722100001 Publication Date 2021-07-07
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 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:179837 Serial 6917
Permanent link to this record
 
 
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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Corporate Author Thesis
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 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 Dadi, D.; Stellmacher, T.; Senbeta, F.; Van Passel, S.; Azadi, H.
Title Environmental and health impacts of effluents from textile industries in Ethiopia : the case of Gelan and Dukem, Oromia Regional State Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Environmental Monitoring And Assessment Abbreviated Journal Environ Monit Assess
Volume 189 Issue 1 Pages 11-30
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This study focuses on four textile industries (DH-GEDA, NOYA, ALMHADI, and ALSAR) established between 2005 and 2008 in the peri-urban areas of Dukem and Gelan. The objectives of the study were to generate baseline information regarding the concentration levels of selected pollutants and to analyze their effects on biophysical environments. This study also attempts to explore the level of exposure that humans and livestock have to polluted effluents and the effects thereof. The findings of this study are based on data empirically collected from two sources: laboratory analysis of sample effluents from the four selected textile plants and quantitative as well as qualitative socioeconomic data collection. As part of the latter, a household survey and focus group discussions (FGDs) with elderly and other focal persons were employed in the towns of Dukem and Gelan. The results of the study show that large concentrations of biological oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), and pH were found in all the observed textile industries, at levels beyond the permissible discharge limit set by the national Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). Furthermore, sulfide (S2), R-phosphate (R-PO43), and Zn were found in large concentrations in DH-GEDA and ALMHADI, while high concentrations were also identified in samples taken from ALSAR and ALMHADI. In spite of the clear-cut legal tools, this study shows that the local environment, people, and their livestock are exposed to highly contaminated effluents. We therefore recommend that the respective federal and regional government bodies should reexamine the compliance to and actual implementation of the existing legal procedures and regulations and respond appropriately.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000392300300011 Publication Date 2016-12-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0167-6369; 1573-2967 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.687 Times cited 6 Open Access
Notes ; In preparing this work, different organizations and institutions contributed immensely and therefore deserve acknowledgment. I would like to thank WHO for their financial support in collecting field samples, the purchase of chemicals, and various types of equipment required for the laboratory activities. I would also like to thank DAAD and the Post Graduate Program at Addis Ababa University for their financial support during my field stay in order to conduct the household survey. The authors wish to thank Ms. Bethany Gardner from the Department of Linguistics, the State University of New York at Binghamton, for her kind help in improving the English of this text. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.687
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139039 Serial 6198
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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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Corporate Author Thesis
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 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 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 4 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.582
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139029 Serial 6208
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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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Corporate Author Thesis
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 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 Nyssen, J.; Fetene, F.; Dessie, M.; Alemayehu, G.; Sewnet, A.; Wassie, A.; Kibret, M.; Walraevens, K.; Derudder, B.; Nicolai, B.; Annys, S.; Tegegne, F.; Van Passel, S.; Frankl, A.; Verleyen, E.; Teklemariam, D.; Adgo, E.
Title Persistence and changes in the peripheral Beles basin of Ethiopia Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Regional Environmental Change Abbreviated Journal Reg Environ Change
Volume 18 Issue 7 Pages 2089-2104
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract We have investigated the relevance of the notion of “peripheralism” in the Beles basin. In this lowland border area of Ethiopia, important investments require an evaluation of their socio-economic and ecological impacts in the light of Ethiopia's Climate-Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) strategy. We contrasted literature of different periods with field observations. In the middle and lower parts of the basin, the Gumuz people traditionally practised shifting cultivation. Resettlement of highlanders is particularly linked to water and land resources. A large irrigation project was initiated in the 1980s, but vegetables and fruits face post-harvest losses. Large water transfers from Lake Tana since 2010 affect the movement of people, the hydrogeomorphology, and ecology of the river. In several parts of the basin, the settlers' economy now dominates. Many Gumuz became sedentary but maintained their agricultural system, particularly in the south of the lower basin. Land titling allowed allocation of “vacant” areas to transnational or domestic investors. As a result, the semi-natural vegetation is frequently replaced by open cropland, leading to decreased carbon storage and increased soil erosion. This and water abstraction for irrigation jeopardise hydropower production, in contradiction with the CRGE objectives. Despite the recent developments, the contrasts in economic activity make the core-periphery dichotomy to remain actual in the Beles basin. The resettlements and permanent cropping tend to make the upper basin part of the core. However, the installation of a transit road and commercial farms in the lower basin do not allow to consider that a non-peripheral integration has taken place.
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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 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 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 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 Maes, D.; Vancauteren, M.; Van Passel, S.
Title Investigating market power in the Belgian pork production chain Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2019 Publication Review of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Studies Abbreviated Journal Rev Agric Food Environ Stud
Volume 100 Issue 1-4 Pages 93-117
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract Belgian pork production has faced stagnating prices for decades. It remains unclear whether excessive market power from slaughterhouses or meat retailers has played a role in this trend. While market power studies can reveal some of the market dynamics in this setting, this type of research has not yet been applied to the Belgian pork market. The present paper investigates oligopolies and oligopsonies in the pork production sector. We build a new model that focuses on market power dynamics in the market for live pigs and distinguishes horizontal and vertical market power parameters, both for pig farmers and for slaughterhouses. The results follow from an empirical application using unique slaughterhouse data for 2001–2015. The results indicate that the farmers benefit from a significant power advantage in the live pig market, when very modest price demands are taken as a reference. The final market price of live pigs approaches the price requested by the farmers. On the other hand, the measured vertical market power also suggests that a pig farmer does not receive the (modest) full-wage-based salary. The market power of the slaughterhouses is also limited. Market power as a result of collusion—that is, horizontal market power—is present, but is not strong. However, there are significant differences between the slaughterhouses in terms of mark-up on the input prices. These differences reflect differences in company strategy, and this diversity further reduces the possibility to create sector-wide collusive behaviour.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2019-11-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2425-6870 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes H2020 Food, 635577 ; TUL Impuls (transnational university Limburg) Interuniversity fund; Approved no
Call Number ENM @ enm @ Serial 6377
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Author Biely, K.; Mathijs, E.; Van Passel, S.
Title Causal loop diagrams to systematically analyze market power in the Belgian sugar value chain Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication AIMS Agriculture and Food Abbreviated Journal
Volume 4 Issue 3 Pages 711-730
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract It has been acknowledged that power is a fundamental aspect that needs to be considered when performing a value chain analysis. The structure of the value chain is indicative of the power distribution along the chain. By employing systems thinking the structure of the value chain can be further investigated and inferences on market power issues can be made. This novel approach connects value chain research with insights from Industrial Organization (IO) literature. Depending on the case, market power may not be measurable by traditional economic tools. Systems thinking offers an alternative tool, allowing the employment of qualitative and quantitative data, overcoming drawbacks of IO methods and providing more depth to value chain analysis. In this paper the valuable contribution of systems thinking to market power analysis is exemplified by the Belgian sugar beet case. The analysis showed that transportability and perishability of sugar beet are key causes of market failure in the Belgian sugar value chain. Systems thinking can support understanding potential future behavior of the market based on the thorough understanding of the current market structure. We illustrate how to integrate factors determining the market structure into causal loop diagrams. This novel approach allows a comprehensive evaluation and thus opens up market power analysis to interdisciplinary research.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000488251600014 Publication Date 2019-08-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2471-2086 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes ; This research was performed within the frame of the EU's HORIZON 2020 project SUFISA with the grant agreement number 635577. The authors want to thank colleagues from the SUFISA project for stimulating and inspiring discussions on this topic. ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:163833 Serial 6165
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Author Vaitkeviciute, J.; Chakir, R.; Van Passel, S.
Title Climate variable choice in Ricardian studies of European Agriculture Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Revue économique Abbreviated Journal
Volume 70 Issue 3 Pages 375-401
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The Ricardian model has been employed frequently to study the impact of climate change on European agriculture. This paper contributes to this literature by using a panel data of FADN EU regions and the period 2004-2012 and by taking into account both individual heterogeneity as well as spatial autocorrelation among EU regions. We tested three hypotheses related to the degree days model. Our results show that climate outside the defined growing season matters for European agriculture, and excluding it could underestimate climate change impacts. Our results should support public policy decisions about efficient and effective mitigation and adaptation policy measures in EU agriculture.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000469914100005 Publication Date 2019-05-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0035-2764; 1950-6694 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes ; We thank the two anonymous referees and the editors of the Revue economique for their useful comments which have helped us to improve the paper significantly. The usual disclaimers apply. The research leading to these results received funding from the European Union within the European Commission Seventh Framework Programme in the frame of RURAGRI ERA-NET under Grant Agreement 235175 TRUSTEE (ANR-13-RURA-0001-01) and from the Agence Nationale de la Recherche within STIMUL (Scenarios Towards integrating multi-scale land use tools) flagship project as part of the “Investissements d'Avenir” Programme (LabEx BASC; ANR-11-LABX-0034). This work was also supported by the metaprogramme Adaptation of Agriculture and Forest to Climate Change (AAFCC) of the French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA). Neither the French Agence Nationale de la Recherche nor the European Union or European Commission organization is accountable for the content of this research. The authors are solely responsible for any omissions or deficiencies. ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:160346 Serial 6167
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Author Kuppens, T.; Van Dael, M.; Vanreppelen, K.; Carleer, R.; Yperman, J.; Schreurs, S.; Van Passel, S.
Title Techno-economic assessment of pyrolysis char production and application : a review Type P1 Proceeding
Year 2014 Publication Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 67-72
Keywords P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology
Abstract Many organic residue streams such as pig manure are not or inefficiently used, although they can be converted into valuable materials, as well as energy, using pyrolysis. The yield of the pyrolysis products (i.e. oil, gas and char) is dependent on the process conditions and the feedstock used. Char as a soil amendment or activated carbon are interesting options for valorization of biomass residues. Here, a review is presented of the techno-economic potential of both valorization options based on literature and own experiments with wood from phytoremediation, particle board and waste from beer production. The term “biochar” is specifically used to designate pyrolysis char that is intentionally applied to soil in order to enhance its structure and fertility. Biochar applications are often also motivated by the objective of climate change mitigation. Two main disadvantages for the economic feasibility of biochar applications have been discerned. Firstly, carbon sequestration in agricultural crops and soils is not yet eligible under the Clean Development Mechanism. Secondly, the impact of biochar on crop productivity is unclear. Activated carbon (AC) seems to have interesting adsorption characteristics resulting in potentially high sales prices. A preliminary techno-economic assessment showed that AC production is preferred above oil production for wood from phytoremediation as long as the market price of 2 kEUR.t(-1) for commercially available ACs can be attained. Whenever a feedstock with high nitrogen content is available (e.g. particle board with melamine urea formaldehyde resin), even higher market prices might be attained. This study shows that valorization of the pyrolysis char might be an answer to the slow adoption of pyrolysis in commercial applications. Focus in research and development, for instance in future research with regard to pig manure valorization, should therefore be on sustainable products with high economic value and direct utilization potential.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000346540000012 Publication Date
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title International Conference on BioMass (iconBM 2014), 4-7 May 2014, Florence, Italy / Ranzi, Eliseo [edit.]; et al.
Series Volume 37 Series Issue Edition
ISSN 978-88-95608-28-0 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 8 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127547 Serial 6265
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Tytgat, T.; Van Passel, S.; Martens, J.A.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Cost-effectiveness analysis to assess commercial TiO2 photocatalysts for acetaldehyde degradation in air Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Chemicke zvesti Abbreviated Journal Chem Pap
Volume 68 Issue 9 Pages 1273-1278
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In the commercialisation of photocatalytic air purifiers, the performance as well as the cost of the catalytic material plays an important role. Where most comparative studies only regard the photocatalytic activity as a decisive parameter, in this study both activity and cost are taken into account. Using a cost-effectiveness analysis, six different commercially available TiO2-based catalysts are evaluated in terms of their activities in photocatalytic degradation of acetaldehyde as a model reaction for indoor air purification.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000336443400015 Publication Date 2014-02-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0366-6352 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.258 Times cited 10 Open Access
Notes ; S. W. V. wishes to thank the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for the financial support received. The authors are grateful to the University of Antwerp for supporting and funding this research. Evonik is sincerely thanked for providing catalyst samples for our experiments free of charge. All companies are thanked for providing specific pricing data. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.258; 2014 IF: 1.468
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:117297 Serial 6174
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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 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 Saviuc, I.; Milis, K.; Peremans, H.; Van Passel, S.
Title A cross-European analysis of the impact of electricity pricing on battery uptake in residential microgrids with photovoltaic units Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Journal of Sustainable Development of Energy, Water and Environment Systems Abbreviated Journal
Volume 9 Issue 3 Pages 1080368
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract As decentralized electricity generation is supporting grid development into the prosumer era, this paper investigates the economic viability of adding batteries to residential microgrids powered by photovoltaic units, under various electricity pricing schemes. Batteries bring the benefits of grid-stabilization and congestion relief, and they are also becoming cheaper. The problem identified is that the main grid effectively acts as a lossless storage system, especially under the net-metering scheme, whereas using a battery involves investment costs and energy losses. This mismatch is addressed by analysing residential microgrid projects under seven tariff designs, each in seven countries of the European Union, and compare the economic viability of photovoltaic systems with and without batteries. The findings show that the conditions most favourable to batteries are given by a capacity tariff scheme allowing price arbitrage. Based on these findings, the paper discusses possibilities for further support in order to bring the economic viability of microgrids with batteries on par with that of microgrids without batteries.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000669453200005 Publication Date 2020-10-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1848-9257 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:179767 Serial 6910
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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.
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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 3 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 0.302
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153136 Serial 6201
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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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Corporate Author Thesis
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 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 Vanschoenwinkel, J.; Vancauteren, M.; Van Passel, S.
Title How do western European farms behave and respond to climate change? A simultaneous irrigation-crop decision model Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Climate change economics Abbreviated Journal
Volume 13 Issue 4 Pages 2250009-2250038
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Most farm adaptations are reactive actions that run the risk of locking farm systems into suboptimal long-term trajectories. This is especially the case with regard to water management as water scarcity will be aggravated by climate change. This paper looks into farm irrigation choices in combination with crop choices because a proper crop choice has the potential to reduce water requirements. It proposes an extended Ricardian model to capture multiple adaptation decisions explicitly. The new simultaneous irrigation-crop farm decision model uses spatially detailed farm-level data of over 18,000 European farms on irrigation and seven different crop choices. The analysis shows that larger farmers and farmers in less water-scarce regions that use irrigation are more sensitive to temperature increases than rain-fed agriculture. This might be explained by the fact that these farmers do not experience the real cost of water scarcity because of which they take less efficient decisions.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000791485900001 Publication Date 2022-03-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2010-0086 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:188680 Serial 7359
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Author Compernolle, T.; Van Passel, S.; Lebbe, L.
Title The value of groundwater modeling to support a pump and treat design Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Groundwater monitoring & remediation Abbreviated Journal
Volume 33 Issue 3 Pages 111-118
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics
Abstract A wide range of rules, algorithms, and models are available to design an effective pump and treat remediation system. Often, one refers to the effectiveness of the developed pump and treat system to demonstrate how valuable the use of a groundwater model can be. An economic valuation of the groundwater model is usually missing. This study provides a framework that puts the discussion concerning the use of groundwater models in an economic perspective. It is not only demonstrated that a more effective pump and treat system can be designed using a groundwater model, but also the economic implications of using a groundwater model are calculated. A set of economic decision rules is applied to determine the economic value of a groundwater model. It is shown that investing in a groundwater model can be economically worthwhile. The remediation time is reduced, remediation costs are saved and the property can be sold more early. These benefits outweigh the costs of developing a groundwater model, and hence a positive net benefit (NB) is determined.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2018-03-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:129867 Serial 6277
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