Công bố quốc tế lĩnh vực môi trường số 41-2023

Về quản lý môi trường

– Đánh giá tác động của các chính sách thúc đẩy năng lượng tái tạo đối với phát triển bền vững: Cách tiếp cận mô hình cân bằng tổng thể có thể tính toán được.

– Kháng kháng sinh trong môi trường nước Đông Nam Á: Đánh giá có hệ thống về bằng chứng hiện tại và hướng nghiên cứu trong tương lai.

– Bất bình đẳng thu nhập có làm ô nhiễm trầm trọng hơn không? Dữ liệu ô nhiễm không khí GEMS được xem lại.

– Tối ưu hóa hiệu quả hoạt động của tổ chức trong sản xuất: Vai trò của năng lực CNTT, tích hợp chuỗi cung ứng xanh và đổi mới xanh.

– Vi nhựa trong môi trường đất: Tập trung vào nguồn gốc, sự biến đổi và thay đổi hình thái của nó.

– Ô nhiễm nước mặt, nước ngầm và đất: Quản lý tài nguyên đất và nước bền vững cũng như đánh giá rủi ro và hệ sinh thái đối với sức khỏe con người.

– Đánh giá nguy cơ lũ lụt đa thông số, tính dễ bị tổn thương về kinh tế xã hội và rủi ro lũ lụt cho đô thị ven biển đông dân cư.

– Lượng khí thải CO2 và các chỉ số chuỗi giá trị toàn cầu: bằng chứng mới cho giai đoạn 1995–2018.

– Tác động của toàn cầu hóa và giáo dục trong việc thúc đẩy chính sách về năng lượng tái tạo và hiệu quả năng lượng.

– Ứng dụng công nghệ chuỗi khối trong quản lý chất thải: Tổng quan, thách thức và cơ hội.

Về môi trường đô thị

– Động lực thời gian và các yếu tố kiểm soát sự biến đổi CO2, CH4 trong khí quyển đô thị Wroclaw, Ba Lan.

– Tối ưu hóa cơ sở hạ tầng xanh có tính đến phân vùng chức năng không gian trong quản lý nước mưa đô thị.

– Chiến lược quản lý nhằm tối đa hóa lợi ích sinh thái thủy văn của mái nhà xanh lam nhiều lớp ở các khu đô thị Địa Trung Hải.

– Các công nghệ mới nổi và chiến lược bền vững để bình ổn chất thải rắn đô thị: Những thách thức khi thực hiện nền kinh tế tuần hoàn.

– Sự tích tụ vật chất dạng hạt trong tán lá cây bị chi phối bởi các loại thói quen của lá, mức độ đô thị hóa và ô nhiễm.

– Môi trường đô thị, hạn hán và biến đổi khí hậu ảnh hưởng mạnh đến sự phát triển của các loài cây đô thị phổ biến ở một thành phố ôn đới.

– Tái phủ xanh vùng ngoại ô: Phân tích các phương pháp phủ xanh đô thị trong các dự án cải tạo mở rộng của Hoa Kỳ.

– Môi trường đô thị và không gian xanh là những yếu tố ảnh hưởng đến hành vi ít vận động ở trẻ em trong độ tuổi đi học.

– Hướng tới sự bền vững: Tác động của sự phát triển hình thái đa chiều của đất đô thị đến lượng khí thải carbon.

– Giảm thiểu khó chịu tiếng ồn giao thông đường bộ bằng chế độ xem cửa sổ xanh: Tối ưu hóa số lượng và chất lượng xanh.

– Cơ sở hạ tầng xanh đô thị để cải thiện sự thoải mái về nhiệt cho người đi bộ: Đánh giá có hệ thống.

Về môi trường khu công nghiệp

– Thu hồi kim loại đơn giản và thân thiện với môi trường từ các bảng mạch in thải bằng cách sử dụng dung môi eutectic sâu.

– Truy tìm lượng khí thải nhà máy luyện niken bằng ong mật châu Âu.

– Tích hợp và tăng cường các quy trình nhiệt để tăng hiệu quả sử dụng năng lượng và giảm thiểu ô nhiễm môi trường nhằm phát triển bền vững ngành công nghiệp – PRES’22.

– Phát huy tối đa lợi ích của việc kết hợp fibroin và sericin: Vỏ kén lụa lỗi thời có chức năng lọc nước thải nhiễm dầu chứa Pb2+.

– Phát thải khí nhà kính từ ngành công nghiệp khai khoáng trong thời đại toàn cầu hóa.

– Đánh giá các sản phẩm phụ công nghiệp nhằm ổn định chất thải mỏ antimon.

– Phát triển ngành dữ liệu lớn và lượng khí thải carbon dioxide: Một thử nghiệm gần như tự nhiên.

– Phương pháp đánh giá sơ bộ tính bền vững trong sử dụng nước trong các ngành công nghiệp ở cấp tiểu lưu vực.

– Nhiệt phân các loại chất thải hữu cơ bị ô nhiễm có liên quan đến công nghiệp: Thành phần khí và khí thải vào không khí.

– Ước tính mức giảm phát thải bằng cách kết hợp chia sẻ năng lượng ngang hàng với thị trường phát thải carbon có xem xét các yếu tố không gian và thời gian.

CHUYÊN TRANG QUẢN LÝ MÔI TRƯỜNG
Tạp chí Môi trường và Đô thị Việt Nam
Trân trọng giới thiệu!

Pleased to present to our valued readers the International Environmental Bulletin No. 41/2023, featuring the following key topics:

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT / QUẢN LÝ MÔI TRƯỜNG

1. Spatiotemporal evolution and influencing factors of land-use emissions in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area using integrated nighttime light datasets

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 893, 1 October 2023, 164723

Abstract

Carbon emissions from land-use and land-cover change (together referred to as ‘land-use emissions’) are an important way to influence the regional carbon balance. However, due to the limitations and complexity of obtaining carbon emissions data at spatial scales, previous studies rarely reveal the long-term evolution characteristics of regional land-use emissions. Therefore, we propose a method to integrate DMSP/OLS and NPP/VIIRS nighttime light images to calculate land-use emissions over a long time series. The accuracy validation results show that the integrated nighttime light images and land-use emissions have a good fit and can accurately assess the long-term evolution of regional carbon emissions. In addition, by combining the Exploratory Spatial Analysis (ESTDA) model and the Vector Autoregressive Regression (VAR) model, we found significant spatial variation in carbon emissions in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), with the two regional emission centres spreading outwards between 1995 and 2020, with an increase in construction land area of 3445 km2, resulting in 257 million tons (Mt) of carbon emissions over the same period. The rapid increase in emissions from carbon sources is not offset by a correspondingly large amount of carbon sinks, resulting in a serious imbalance. Controlling the intensity of land use, optimizing the structure of land use and promoting the transformation of the industrial structure are now the keys to achieving carbon reduction in the GBA. Our study demonstrates the enormous potential of long-time-series nighttime light data in regional carbon emission research.

2. The mediating effect of financial development on CO2 emissions: An empirical study based on provincial panel data in China

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 896, 20 October 2023, 165220

Abstract

Global climate change has become the greatest threat to humanity, and China is developing policies among various industries to peak CO2 emissions as soon as possible and expects the reduction of CO2 emissions through financial development. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2000 to 2017, this paper uses fixed effect model and mediating effect model to explore the mechanism and effective pathway of financial development on CO2 emissions per capita among different regions in China. Empirical results consistently indicate that financial development has the significantly positive effect on CO2 emissions per capita, but the impact is inverted U-shaped. It means that only when the financial development in China gradually increased to 4.21 can achieve the goal of reducing CO2 emissions per capita. These results provide new explanatory ideas for the inconsistent direction of the impact of financial development on carbon emissions in existing studies. Then, the technological innovation and industrial structure are intermediaries for financial development to reduce CO2 emissions per capita, while the economic scale is the opposite. And it illustrates not only theoretical but also empirical results on the mediating pathways of financial development driven CO2 emission reduction. Under the theory of “natural resource curse”, in regions with high fossil energy dependence, the mediating effect of the economic scale is greater than that in regions with low fossil energy dependence. But the mediating effects of technological innovation and industrial structure from financial development on CO2 emissions per capita are all negative and more powerful than that in regions with low fossil energy dependence. This provides an important practical basis for the development of differentiated carbon reduction policies through finance in different fossil energy dependent regions.

3. Evaluating the impacts of renewable energy promotion policies on sustainable development: A computable general equilibrium model approach

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 421, 1 October 2023, 138360

Abstract

Previous research has examined the double-dividend effects of renewable energy expansion policies, but the impact of financing mechanisms used to support this expansion has been overlooked. To address this gap, our study analyzes the economy-wide impacts of renewable energy expansion policies in Korea, with a specific focus on financing mechanisms. We employ a recursive dynamic computable general equilibrium model that considers imperfections in labor markets, heterogeneous households, and various electricity generation technologies. Our analysis examines the effects of various financing options for renewable energy on economic growth, the labor market, and social welfare, both with and without emission regulations. Our results reveal a trade-off between efficiency and equality when it comes to financing renewable energy expansion. Specifically, we find that financing the expansion through a lump-sum tax is the most efficient option, resulting in the smallest reduction in GDP compared to the business-as-usual scenario. However, this option also has the greatest negative impact on income inequality, as it leads to an increase in skill premiums and capital prices, exacerbating income disparities between households. Our findings suggest that renewable energy expansion tends to be regressive, with low-income households bearing a relatively larger burden of the costs associated with the expansion. Policymakers need to consider a range of options for alleviating income inequality and labor market disparity, such as targeted subsidies or transfers, to ensure a fair and efficient transition to a sustainable energy system.

4. The material implications and embodied emissions of clean power transition in Guangdong, China from 1978 to 2050

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 422, 10 October 2023, 138512

Abstract

The national and regional carbon neutrality ambition necessitates clean power transition but also requires significant amount of generation, transmission, and storage infrastructure for renewables. Understanding the consequent material implications and embodied emissions of such energy infrastructure development with a system perspective at various geographical scales is thus important for maximizing emissions reduction and minimizing trade-offs among climate, resource, and waste targets. Previous research along this line, however, often focuses on individual subsystems (e.g., power generation) or individual technologies (e.g., wind energy) on a global or national scale. Here, we combined a dynamic material flow analysis model, life cycle assessment database, and scenario analysis to characterize stocks, flows, and embodied emissions of six bulk materials and thirteen critical materials associated with clean power transition from 1978 to 2050 in Guangdong province, China. We show that Guangdong’s clean power transition leads to a total material stock increase from 2.9 Mt in 1980 to 45.6 Mt in 2018 and further to 95.7 Mt in 2050 under the basic renewable energy scenario (BES). The material stock in both generation and storage subsystems will grow over time, whereas that in the transmission subsystem will peak at approximately 2040 and then gradually decline. The massive expansion of wind and nuclear energy will result in a drastic rise in materials use, especially for cement and steel. A higher proportion of renewables increases energy infrastructure embodied emissions but reduces overall emissions. Future mitigation efforts and policy should not only address operational emissions through energy structure adjustment, but also curb the embodied emissions through infrastructure lifetime extension, material efficiency improvement, and material production decarbonization.

5. The impact and nonlinear relationship of low-carbon city construction on air quality: Evidence from a quasi-natural experiment in China

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 422, 10 October 2023, 138588

Abstract

Many low-carbon policies have been implemented to realize China’s “double carbon goals”. Maximizing the synergistic effects of pollution reduction is very important. This study develops difference-in-difference and panel threshold models to analyze the effects of the low carbon city pilot (LCCP) policy on air quality and the nonlinear relationship between them. The results show that: (1) As a whole, the LCCP policy can effectively improve air quality in pilot cities. When regional heterogeneity is concerned, the policy shows a pollution mitigation effect in the eastern and central regions, while it shows a green paradox effect in the western region. (2) The LCCP policy has a spatial spillover effect and displays a U-shaped relationship in terms of distance in a full sample context. The spatial spillover effects of the LCCP policy in terms of the distance vary across regions. (3) There is a nonlinear relationship between LCCP policy and air quality based on the level of economic development and city innovation. When a city’s economic development and innovation levels are relatively weak, the policy effect is reflected as a green paradox effect. The LCCP policy can significantly improve the air quality in the pilot cities only when the economic development level and city innovation level exceed a certain threshold. That means different cities should make their low-carbon development plans due to their development level.

6. Antimicrobial resistance in southeast Asian water environments: A systematic review of current evidence and future research directions

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 896, 20 October 2023, 165229

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance has been a serious and complex issue for over a decade. Although research on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has mainly focused on clinical and animal samples as essential for treatment, the AMR situation in aquatic environments may vary and have complicated patterns according to geographical area. Therefore, this study aimed to examine recent literature on the current situation and identify gaps in the AMR research on freshwater, seawater, and wastewater in Southeast Asia. The PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases were searched for relevant publications published from January 2013 to June 2023 that focused on antimicrobial resistance bacteria (ARB) and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) among water sources. Based on the inclusion criteria, the final screening included 41 studies, with acceptable agreement assessed using Cohen’s inter-examiner kappa equal to 0.866. This review found that 23 out of 41 included studies investigated ARGs and ARB reservoirs in freshwater rather than in seawater and wastewater, and it frequently found that Escherichia coli was a predominant indicator in AMR detection conducted by both phenotypic and genotypic methods. Different ARGs, such as blaTEM, sul1, and tetA genes, were found to be at a high prevalence in wastewater, freshwater, and seawater. Existing evidence highlights the importance of wastewater management and constant water monitoring in preventing AMR dissemination and strengthening effective mitigation strategies. This review may be beneficial for updating current evidence and providing a framework for spreading ARB and ARGs, particularly region-specific water sources. Future AMR research should include samples from various water systems, such as drinking water or seawater, to generate contextually appropriate results. Robust evidence regarding standard detection methods is required for prospective-era work to raise practical policies and alerts for developing microbial source tracking and identifying sources of contamination-specific indicators in aquatic environment markers.

7. Does income inequality worsen pollution? The GEMS air pollution data revisited

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 422, 10 October 2023, 138478

Abstract

Research on the effect of income inequality on pollution shows mixed results. This paper takes a new look at the urban air pollution data set of the U.N.‘s Global Environmental Monitoring System (GEMS). We investigate the impact of income inequality on urban air pollution and relate the results to a median-voter model. In this model, more income inequality decreases the median income, reduces pollution controls, and increases output and pollution when the median income is above a threshold.

We find that income inequality, measured by the Gini coefficient, increases concentration in the rich democracies. The estimated effects are non-negligible in size. For the poor non-democracies, we find no evidence that the Gini coefficient impacts concentration. The Gini coefficient is estimated to increase the smoke concentration at the five- or ten-percent significance level in most specifications in a pooled sample. We find no evidence that the Gini coefficient impacts the concentration of particulates in a pooled sample. We conclude that the empirical results largely are consistent with the median-voter model.

8. Optimizing organizational performance in manufacturing: The role of IT capability, green supply chain integration, and green innovation

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 423, 15 October 2023, 138848

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to investigate the complex association that exists between information technology capabilities (ITCs), green supply chain integration (GSCI), and green innovation (GI) on organizational performance in the manufacturing industry. By analyzing data from a sample of manufacturing organizations (n = 620), this study pursues to understand how ITC influences the implementation and efficacy of green initiatives throughout the supply chain and how this, in turn, affects organizational performance. The findings suggest that ITC boosts GSCI and overall organizational performance and that green process innovation and green product innovation mediate the relationship between different dimensions of GSCI and performance. The study findings have important implications for academics and practitioners who want to learn how to combine information technology and green practices to improve organizational performance.

9. Spatial disparities and variation sources decomposition of energy poverty in China

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 421, 1 October 2023, 138498

Abstract

Addressing energy poverty and promoting energy equity are crucial for China to eradicate poverty comprehensively and achieve shared prosperity. Through a combined dynamic evaluation approach to accurately measure the extent of energy poverty, this paper analyzes the staged time series, spatial distribution characteristics of energy poverty applies the Dagum Gini coefficient and variance decomposition to observe the imbalance characteristics of energy poverty and identify the sources of variation. The objective of this paper is to mitigate the influence of spatial disparities on coordinating efforts to eradicate energy poverty across different regions. Consequently, provides valuable insights for decision-making to effectively eradicate energy poverty and expedite the achievement of energy equity. The results indicate: The reduction process of energy poverty in China exhibit phased characteristics from 2000 to 2020, with significant variations in reduction levels among provinces. Different sources of energy poverty exhibits imbalanced spatial distribution and evolution. The overall disparity in energy poverty widens as the phases progress, with characteristic nodes experiencing a temporal delay of 2–3 years compared to the policy nodes. Inter-regional disparities are the primary spatial source of energy poverty differences, while energy use capacity is the main factor contributing to variation.

10. Microplastics in the soil environment: Focusing on the sources, its transformation and change in morphology

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 896, 20 October 2023, 165291

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) are small plastic pieces less than 5 mm in size. Previous studies have focused on the sources, transports, and fates of MPs in marine or sediment environments. However, limited attention has been given to the role of land as the primary source of MPs, and how plastic polymers are transformed into MPs through biological or abiotic effects during the transport process remains unclear. Here, we focus on the exploration of the main sources of MPs in the soil, highlighting that MP generation is not solely a byproduct of plastic production but can also result from the impact of biological and abiotic factors during the process of MPs transport. This review presents a new perspective on understanding the degradation of MPs in soil, considering soil as a distinct fluid and suggesting that the main transformation and change mediated by abiotic factors occur on the soil surface, while the main biodegradation occurs in the soil interior. This viewpoint is suggested because the role of some abiotic factors becomes less obvious in the soil interior, and MPs, whose surface is expected to colonize microorganisms, are gradually considered a carbon source independent of photosynthesis and net primary production. This review emphasizes the need to understand basic MPs information in soil for a rational evaluation of its environmental toxicity. Such understanding enables better control of MPs pollution in affected areas and prevents contamination in unaffected regions. Finally, knowledge gaps and future research directions necessary for advancements in this field are provided.

11. Surface water, groundwater, and soil pollution: Sustainable water and soils resources management and human health risk assessment and ecology”

Chemosphere, Volume 337, October 2023, 139295

Abstract

The use of groundwater and surface water represent a primary source for various uses such as agriculture, livestock farming, industrial activities and civil utilization (Kumar et al., 2019). Even more so if we consider the climatic variations that are disrupting our planet, which exert strong pressure on the availability of water resources on a planetary scale, just consider the now habitual alternation between drought crises and sudden floods. To all this must also be added the determined anthropogenic pressure that is being exerted on high highly inhabited areas, mainly concentrated along coastal strips (Somma et al., 2021) or on the shores of lakes and rivers that see intensive farming and agricultural techniques as protagonists.

Chemicals are present in virtually every single product on a planetary scale. On the one hand, chemicals play a key role in ensuring quality of life and offer new solutions to achieve green transitions. On the other, our growing dependence on chemicals leads to serious problems. From creating adverse health effects to contributing to the climate crisis, chemicals come at a cost, so much so that we have now passed the planetary limit of chemical pollution. Where will we end up? This special volume aims to help define the systematic use of chemicals and innovative techniques to mitigate harmful effects in current production and consumption systems.

12. Multiparameter flood hazard, socioeconomic vulnerability and flood risk assessment for densely populated coastal city

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 344, 15 October 2023, 118405

Abstract

In the current study, flood risk assessment of densely populated coastal urban Surat City, on the bank of the lower Tapi River in India, was conducted by combining the hydrodynamic model-based flood hazard and often neglected socioeconomic vulnerability. A two-dimensional (2D) hydrodynamic (HD) model was developed using physically surveyed topographic data and the existing land use land cover (LULC) of the study area (5248 km2). The satisfactory performance of the developed model was ascertained by comparing the observed and simulated water levels/depths across the river and floodplain. The 2D HD model outputs with geographic information system (GIS) applications were further used to develop probabilistic multiparameter flood hazard maps for coastal urban city. During a 100-year return period flood (Peak discharge = 34,459 m3/s), 86.5% of Surat City and its outskirt area was submerged, with 37% under the high hazard category. The north and west zones are the worst affected areas in Surat City. The socioeconomic sensitivity and adaptive capacity indicators were selected at the city’s lowest administrative (ward) level. The socioeconomic vulnerability was evaluated by employing the robust data envelopment analysis (DEA) technique. Fifty-five of 89 wards in Surat City, covering 60% of the area under the jurisdiction of the Municipal Corporation, are highly vulnerable. Finally, the flood risk assessment of the city was conducted using a bivariate technique describing the distinctive contribution of flood hazard and socioeconomic vulnerability to risk. The wards adjoining the river and creek are at high flood risk, with an equal contribution of hazard and vulnerability. The ward-level hazard, vulnerability, and risk assessment of the city will help local and disaster management authorities to priorities high risk areas while planning flood management and mitigation strategies.

13. CO2 emissions and global value chains indicators:new evidence for 1995–2018

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 343, 1 October 2023, 118239

Abstract

Globalization and the configuration of production processes around Global Value Chains (GVCs) have become key factors for explaining the recent evolution of environmental and economic indicators. Indeed, previous research found evidence on the significant impact of GVCs indicators (participation and position) on CO2 emissions. Additionally, results obtained in previous literature vary depending on the time period and geographical areas considered. In this context, the main aims of this paper are to analyze the role the GVCs in explaining the evolution of CO2 emissions, and to identify possible structural breaks. This study uses the Multiregional Input-Output framework to calculate a position indicator and two different measures of participation in GVCs (interpreted either as trade openness or international competitiveness). The analysis useS Inter-Country Input-Output tables (ICIO) as main database, which includes 66 countries and 45 industries and covers the period 1995–2018. It is first concluded that upstream positions in GVCs are associated to lower global emissions. Additionally, the effect of participation depends on the measure used: trade openness is linked to lower emissions, while a higher competitiveness in international trade leads to higher emissions. Finally, two structural breaks are identified in 2002 and 2008, revealing that position is significant in the two first subperiods, while participation becomes significant from 2002 onwards. Thus, policies to mitigate CO2 emissions might to be different before and after 2008: currently, reductions in emissions can be achieved by increasing value-added embodied in trade while decreasing the volume of transactions.

14. The impact of globalisation and education in promoting policies for renewables and energy efficiency

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 421, 1 October 2023, 138559

Abstract

Policies targeting energy efficiency and renewable energy are sometimes viewed as more politically feasible than carbon pricing in pursuit of emission reduction goals. This paper assesses underlying drivers of energy policy development. These factors include economic, social, environmental, and institutional variables. The between estimator for panel data is an appropriate method for our focus on some exogenous variables that vary more across countries than over time. We find that larger oil reserves per capita have a negative relationship with renewable energy policy development. Education and political globalisation have strong positive relationships with both energy-efficiency and renewable-energy policy development. These results suggest that greater participation in global political groups can be an indirect approach toward energy policy development, in cases where direct and immediate policies are hard to implement. OECD countries have higher policy scores by 33 and 25 points in energy efficiency and renewable energy respectively. Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition analysis shows that these higher scores are primarily due to social and political institution predictors rather than economics and physical endowments.

15. Blockchain technology applications in waste management: Overview, challenges and opportunities

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 421, 1 October 2023, 138466

Abstract

Rapid population growth and urbanisation have accelerated waste generation, and effective waste management has become a major challenge worldwide. With advances in technology and management methods, waste management strategies have begun embracing digitalisation, leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT), big data analytics, cloud/edge computing, machine learning, 5G communication, and blockchain technologies. Amongst them, the blockchain technology has the structural features of achieving information security and integrity without central guarantees. Blockchain also meets the data record/storage needs of waste management and the design of new mechanisms for effective waste management. These benefits make blockchain an attractive technology in the field of waste management, with researchers and practitioners alike investigating its broad applications to support sustainable waste management. However, this emerging technology has not yet been widely accepted by potential users. To further champion the application of blockchain technology, this review paper provides a systematic overview of the various pathways in which the technology has been applied in the waste management industry and further discusses its related challenges and opportunities via considering the promising prospect of combining blockchain technology with IoT, artificial intelligence (AI) and life cycle assessment (LCA). This review also provides insights for interpreting some emerging applications of blockchain in the field of waste management and clarifying the research paths in the context of blockchain, digitalised waste management, and circular economy.

16. Distribution, source identification, and health risk of emerging organic contaminants in groundwater of Xiong’an New Area, Northern China

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 893, 1 October 2023, 164786

Abstract

Groundwater contamination in China has been greatly concerned due to dramatically increasing fresh water demand accompanied by economic development. However, little is known about aquifer vulnerability to hazardous matters especially in previously contaminated site of rapidly urbanizing cities. Here, we collected 90 groundwater samples from Xiong’an New Area during wet and dry seasons of 2019 and characterized the composition and distribution of emerging organic contaminants (EOCs) in this strategically developing city. A total of 89 EOCs, assigned to organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), were detected with the frequencies ranging from 1.11 %–85.6 %. Methyl tert-butyl ether (16.3 μg/L), Epoxid A (6.15 μg/L), and α-Lindane (5.15 μg/L) could be identified as major contributors to groundwater organic pollution. Significant aggregation of groundwater EOCs along Tang River were found due to historical residue and accumulation from wastewater storage there before 2017. Significant seasonal variations (p < 0.05) in the types and concentrations of EOCs could be attributed to discrepant pollution sources between varying seasons. Human health effects from exposure to groundwater EOCs were further evaluated with negligible risk (<10−4) in most samples (97.8 %) and notable risk (10−6–10−4) in several monitored wells (2.20 %) located along Tanghe Sewage Reservoir. This study provides new evidences for aquifer vulnerability to hazardous matters in historically contaminated sites and is of significant to groundwater pollution controlling and drinking water safety for rapidly urbanizing cities.

URBAN ENVIRONMENT/ MÔI TRƯỜNG ĐÔ THỊ

1. Temporal dynamics and controlling factors of CO2 and CH4 variability in the urban atmosphere of Wroclaw, Poland

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 893, 1 October 2023, 164771

Abstract

Temporal and spatial distribution of both biogenic and anthropogenic components of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) is crucial for understanding the environmental impacts of climate change over urban areas. This research focuses on applying stable isotope source-partitioning studies to determine the interactions between biogenic and anthropogenic CO2 and CH4 emissions in an average-sized city environment. Study signifies the weight of instantaneous variability and diurnal averaging as compared with seasonal records of variations of the atmospheric CO2 and CH4 at a variety of typical urban sites in the city of Wroclaw, conducted during a one-year period from June 2017 to August 2018.

The findings reveal distinct temporal variations in atmospheric CO2 and CH4 mole fractions and their isotopic composition. The average atmospheric CO2 and CH4 mole fractions during the study period were 416.4 ± 20.5 ppm, and 1.95 ± 0.09 ppm, respectively. The study highlights the high variability of driving forces, including current energy use patterns, natural carbon reservoirs, planetary boundary layer dynamics, and atmospheric transport. Additionally, the relationship between the evolution of the convective boundary layer depth and the CO2 budget was analyzed using the CLASS model with input parameters based on field observations, resulting in insights such as an increase in the range of 25–65 ppm of CO2 during stable nocturnal boundary layers.

The observed changes in stable isotopic signatures of air samples allowed for the identification of two main source categories in the city area: fuel combustion and biogenic processes. The δ13C-CO2 values of collected samples suggest that biogenic emissions dominate (up to 60 % of CO2 excess mole fraction) during the growing season, but are reduced by plant photosynthesis during summer afternoons. In contrast, local fossil-fuel CO2 contribution (up to 90 % of excess CO2 mole fraction) from domestic heating, vehicle emissions, and heat and power plants predominantly influence the urban GHG budget during winter. The δ13C-CH4 values indicate anthropogenic sources related to fossil fuel combustion during winter, with values ranging from −44.2 ‰ to −51.4 ‰, while slightly more depleted values, between −47.1 ‰ and −54.2 ‰, reflect a larger input of biological processes in the methane urban budget during summer.

Overall, instantaneous and hourly variability of the above-mentioned readings of gas mole fraction and isotopic composition, have shown higher variability than seasonal amplitudes. Hence, respecting this granularity is the key to alignment and understanding significance of such localized atmospheric pollution studies. Additionally, the changing overprint of the system’s framework, such as variability of wind and atmospheric layering patterns, weather events, provides context of sampling and data analysis at different frequencies.

2. Green infrastructure optimization considering spatial functional zoning in urban stormwater management

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 344, 15 October 2023, 118407

Abstract

Green infrastructure (GI) is used as an alternative and complement to traditional urban drainage system for mitigating urban stormwater issues mainly caused by climate change and urbanization. The combination of hydrological model and optimization algorithm can automatically find the optimal solution under multiple objectives. Given the multi-functional characteristics of GI, choosing the optimization objectives of GI are critical for multiple stakeholders. This study proposes a GI optimization method considering spatial functional zoning. Based on the basic conditions, the study area is divided into the flood risk control zone (FRCZ) and the total runoff control zone (TRCZ). The integrated model coupling hydrological model and optimization algorithm is applied to obtain the Pareto fronts and corresponding non-dominated solutions. The Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method is used to support the decision-making process. The optimal solution obtained for the FRCZ achieves a flood risk reduction rate of 60.49% with an average life cycle cost per year of 0.20 108 Chinese Yuan (CNY); The optimal solution obtained for the TRCZ achieves a total runoff reduction rate of 22.83% with an average life cycle cost per year of 0.17 108 CNY. This study provides a reference for stakeholders in GI planning and design.

3. Management strategies for maximizing the ecohydrological benefits of multilayer blue-green roofs in mediterranean urban areas

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 343, 1 October 2023, 118248

Abstract

Multilayer Blue-Green Roofs are powerful nature-based solutions that can contribute to the creation of smart and resilient cities. These tools combine the retention capacity of traditional green roofs with the water storage of a rainwater harvesting tank. The additional storage layer enables to accumulate the rainwater percolating from the soil layer, that, if properly treated, can be reused for domestic purposes. Here, we explore the behavior of a Multilayer Blue-Green Roof prototype installed in Cagliari (Italy) in 2019, that have been equipped with a remotely controlled gate to regulate the storage capacity of the system. The gate installation allows to manage the Multilayer Blue-Green Roof in order to increase the flood mitigation capacity, minimizing the water stress for vegetation and limiting the roof load with adequate management practices. In this work, 10 rules for the management of the Multilayer Blue-Green Roof gate have been investigated and their performances in achieving different management goals (i.e., mitigating urban flood, increasing water storage and limiting roof load on the building) have been evaluated, with the aim to identify the most efficient approach to maximize the benefits of this nature based solution. An ecohydrological model have been calibrated based on field measurements carried out for 6 months. The model has been used to simulate the system performance in achieving the proposed goals, using as input nowdays and future rainfall and temperature time series. The analysis reveled the importance of the correct management of the gate, highthing how choosing and applying a specific management rule helps increasing the performance in reaching the desired goal.

4. Emerging technologies and sustainable strategies for municipal solid waste valorization: Challenges of circular economy implementation

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 423, 15 October 2023, 138708

Abstract

Due to an upsurge in urbanization and industrialization, huge amounts of municipal solid waste (MSW) are accumulating on our planet. Waste generation has several negative environmental repercussions, making it a topic of debate in the environmental community. In the context of the circular economy, efforts have been made worldwide to establish a systematic management approach coupled with a sustainable treatment technology to maximize the resource usage of MSW. This review systematically discusses the recent technological developments for the valorization of MSW into valuable chemicals and energy. It focuses on the circular economy concept based on the material-centric approach and highlights the sustainable processing mechanisms of MSW through chemical, biological, and thermal processes, including hybrid and integrated thermo-bio-chemical biomass waste conversion technologies. The potential economic, environmental, and health impacts of valorizing MSW material into high-value fuels and chemicals were discussed. Future perspectives and challenges in managing MSW and valorization for practical large-scale applications are also addressed. This review would be interesting for scientific and industrial communities to boost MSW management and valorization through sustainable, effective, low-cost approaches.

5. Particulate matter accumulation by tree foliage is driven by leaf habit types, urbanization- and pollution levels

Environmental Pollution, Volume 335, 15 October 2023, 122289

Abstract

Particulate matter (PM) pollution poses a significant threat to human health. Greenery, particularly trees, can act as effective filters for PM, reducing associated health risks. Previous studies have indicated that tree traits play a crucial role in determining the amount of PM accumulated on leaves, although findings have often been site-specific. To comprehensively investigate the key factors influencing PM binding to leaves across diverse tree species and geographical locations, we conducted an extensive analysis using data extracted from 57 publications. The data covers 11 countries and 190 tree species from 1996 to 2021. We categorized tree species into functional groups: evergreen conifers, deciduous conifers, deciduous broadleaves, and evergreen broadleaves based on leaf habit and phylogeny. Evergreen conifers exhibited the highest PM accumulation on leaves, and in general, evergreen leaves accumulated more PM compared to deciduous leaves across all PM size classes. Specific leaf traits, such as epicuticular wax, played a significant role. The highest PM loads on leaves were observed in peri-urban areas along the rural-peri-urban-urban gradient. However, the availability of global data was skewed, with most data originating from urban and peri-urban areas, primarily from China and Poland. Among different climate zones, substantial data were only available for warm temperate and cold steppe climate zones. Understanding the problem of PM pollution and the role of greenery in urban environments is crucial for monitoring and controlling PM pollution. Our systematic review of the literature highlights the variation on PM loading among different vegetation types with varying leaf characteristics. Notably, epicuticular wax emerged as a marker trait that exhibited variability across PM size fractions and different vegetation types.

In conclusion, this review emphasizes the importance of greenery in mitigation PM pollution. Our findings underscore the significance of tree traits in PM binding. However, lack of data stresses the need for further research and data collection initiatives.

6. Anthropogenic debris pollution in peri-urban mangroves of South China: Spatial, seasonal, and environmental drivers in Hong Kong

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Volume 195, October 2023, 115495

Abstract

Excessive mismanaged debris along tropical coasts pose a threat to vulnerable mangrove ecosystems. Here, we examined the spatial, seasonal and environmental drivers of anthropogenic debris abundance and its potential ecological impact in peri-urban mangroves across Hong Kong. Seasonal surveys were conducted in both landward and seaward zones, with identification, along belt transects, of macrodebris (>5 mm) based on material type and use. Our results indicate spatial variability in debris abundance and distribution, with plastic being the predominant material type identified. Both plastic and non-plastic domestic items covered the most surface area. Debris aggregation was highest at the landward zones, consistent with the literature. In the dry season, more debris accumulated and covered greater surface area in both seaward and landward zones. These results confirm that land-derived debris from mismanaged waste, rather than debris coming from the Pearl River, is the primary source of anthropogenic debris pollution threatening Hong Kong’s mangroves.

7. Long-term PM2.5 pollution over China: Identification of PM2.5 pollution hotspots and source contributions

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 893, 1 October 2023, 164871

Abstract

Fine particulate matter, with an aerodynamic diameter ≤ 2.5 μm (PM2.5), is a severe problem in China. The lack of ground-based measurements and its sparse distribution obstruct long-term air pollution impact studies over China. Therefore, the present study used newly updated Global Estimates (V5. GL.02) of monthly PM2.5 data from 2001 to 2020 based on Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) by Washington University. The GWR PM2.5 data were validated against ground-based measurements from 2014 to 2020, and the validation results demonstrated a good agreement between GWR and ground-based PM2.5 with a higher correlation (r = 0.95), lower error (8.14), and lower bias (−3.10 %). The long-term (2001−2020) PM2.5 data were used to identify pollution hotspots and sources across China using the potential source contribution function (PSCF). The results showed highly significant PM2.5 pollution hotspots in central (Henan, Hubei), North China Plain (NCP), northwest (Taklimakan), and Sichuan Basin (Chongqing, Sichuan) in China, with the most severe pollution occurring in winter compared to other seasons. During the winter, PM2.5 was in the range from 6.08 to 93.05 μg/m3 in 33 provinces, which is 1.22 to 18.61 times higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) Air Quality Guidelines (AQG-2021; annual mean: 5 μg/m3). In 26 provinces, the reported PM2.5 was 1.07 to 2.66 times higher than the Chinese Ambient Air Quality Standard (AAQS; annual mean: 35 μg/m3). Furthermore, provincial-level trend analysis shows that in most Chinese provinces, PM2.5 increased significantly (3–43 %) from 2001 to 2012, whereas it decreased by 12–94 % from 2013 to 2020 due to the implementation of air pollution control policies. Finally, the PSCF analysis demonstrates that China’s air quality is mainly affected by local PM2.5 sources rather than by pollutants imported from outside China.

8. Urban environment, drought events and climate change strongly affect the growth of common urban tree species in a temperate city

Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, Volume 88, October 2023, 128083

Abstract

Trees’ ecosystem services help reducing the urban heat island intensity, but are most effective when trees are big and healthy. During the last decades, the frequency of heat waves and drought events in Central Europe has increased, exposing urban trees to even greater stress under already challenging urban growth conditions. To understand the extent to which the urban environment affects tree growth and how trees respond to drought, dendrochronological analyses were conducted on 176 urban trees of six commonly planted tree species: Tilia cordata, Acer platanoides, Robinia pseudoacacia, Platanus x acerifolia, Fagus sylvatica and Quercus robur growing within the temperate city of Munich, Germany. The impacts of climate change were studied comparing tree growth between the periods 1980–1999 and 2000–2019, as well as the effect of the urban heat island intensity, comparing urban and suburban zones. Additionally, a drought-tolerance analysis was conducted to investigate the recovery following different dry years. Species-specific trends showed the highest average basal area increment (BAI) for P. x acerifolia (44.9 cm²/year) and the lowest for T. cordata (18.4 cm²/year). In terms of the urbanisation impact on growth, significantly higher BAI was recorded for A. platanoides and T. cordata in the suburban areas, in contrast to F. sylvatica. Analysing the complete sample, the results showed growth reduction since the year 2000 (−28%). Higher drought tolerance was found for R. pseudoacacia, P. x acerifolia and Q. robur. Accumulated drought stress showed significant negative responses for A. platanoides and T. cordata. With the predicted climate change scenarios, the present study can deepen the knowledge about drought tolerance of urban trees in temperate climate and improve species selection. In particular, R. pseudoacacia and P. x acerifolia could be further planted in cities as were less affected by high urbanisation degree and grew the most despite drought and climate change conditions.

9. Analyzing spatial patterns and influencing factors of different illegal land use types within ecological spaces: A case study of a fast-growing city

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 424, 20 October 2023, 138883

Abstract

The conflict between socio-economic development and ecological protection results in large areas of illegal land use within ecological spaces. Determining the spatial patterns and influencing mechanisms of illegal land use is important because it is harmful to the natural environment. Previous studies mainly considered macro-scale influencing factors, but rarely analyzed the influencing mechanisms behind different types of illegal land use (e.g., residential areas, industrial areas). Therefore, we assessed the spatial distribution of suspected illegal land use and then investigated the influencing factors of various illegal land use types by combining remote sensing and the maximum entropy algorithm. The accuracies of the models for almost all types of illegal land use were much higher than 0.8. The results indicated that 36.14% of the subdistricts exhibited illegal land use issues in terms of the first-level ecological red lines, and 56.63% of subdistricts had this problem within the second-level ecological red lines. Rural residential areas, residential areas, and industrial areas were the major types of illegal land use. In addition, population, elevation, and transportation had a great impact on the occurrence probability of illegal land use. Particularly, transportation-related factors, such as distance from roads, distance from trunk lines, and distance from highways, had a large impact on illegal residential and industrial areas. Proximity to public transportation facilities was associated with a greater risk of illegal commercial areas. Therefore, local governments should strengthen the management of high-risk areas and monitor them closely to prevent conflicts between urban development and ecological protection plans. They must pay sufficient attention to areas with higher population density, lower elevation, and closer proximity to public transportation facilities. Overall, these conclusions can facilitate the fine-scale protection of ecological spaces and provide a theoretical basis for sustainable ecological planning.

10. Regreening suburbia: An analysis of urban greening approaches in U.S. sprawl retrofitting projects

Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, Volume 88, October 2023, 128092

Abstract

Urban sprawl negatively impacts public health, societal well-being, economic prosperity, and environmental sustainability. Sprawl retrofitting projects aim to mitigate these issues by increasing density, diversifying land uses and housing options, and enhancing walkability and environmental amenities, with green space provision being vital to their success. But empirical evidence regarding the achievement of ‘regreening’ objectives is limited, with some studies showing considerable green space reduction during suburban densification. This study analyzes regreening strategies in 18 suburban sprawl retrofitting projects completed between 2008 and 2018 in the United States. Using a quasi-experimental approach, I first contrast vegetation changes in these projects to those in adjacent areas. Next, we examine the cases based on six regreening principles derived from the literature: 1) urban nature quality and quantity, 2) multi-modal access and walkability, 3) inclusive and authentic public spaces and programming, 4) local and regional green space connectivity, 5) environmental performance and ecological design, and 6) initial public sector leadership and investment. The findings show no significant pre- and post-project differences in vegetation levels for either project sites or control groups, indicating inconsistent regreening outcomes. Analysis of regreening principles reveals challenges and opportunities in sprawl retrofitting projects. The study emphasized the need for concerted efforts to ensure socially equitable and ecologically functional green spaces in suburban retrofitting projects.

11. Response of heavy-metal and antibiotic resistance genes and their related microbe in rice paddy irrigated with treated municipal wastewaters

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 896, 20 October 2023, 165249

Abstract

Paddy irrigation with secondary effluents from municipal wastewater treatment plants (MWTPs) is a well-established practice to alleviate water scarcity. However, the reuse might lead to more complicated contamination caused by interactions between residual antibiotics in effluents and heavy metals in paddy soil. To date, no information is available for the potential effects of dual stress of heavy metals and antibiotics on heavy-metal resistance genes (MRGs) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Here, this study investigated the response of heavy metal and antibiotic resistance genes, and related microorganisms to the dual threat of antibiotics and heavy metals under the long-term MWTP effluent irrigation for rice paddy using metagenome. The results showed that there was not a negative effect on rice consumption if MWTP effluent was used to irrigate rice for a long time. The concentration of antibiotics could reshape the ARGs and MRG profiles in rice paddy soil. The findings revealed the co-occurrence of ARGs and MRGs in rice paddy soils, thus highlighting the need for simultaneous elimination of antibiotics and heavy metals to effectively reduce ARGs and MRGs. Acn and sul1 genes encoding Iron and sulfonamides resistance mechanisms are the most abundant MRG and ARG, respectively. Network analysis revealed the possibility that IntI1 plays a role in the co-transmission of MRG and ARG to host microbes, and that Proteobacteria are the most dominant hosts for MRG, ARG, and integrons. The presence of antibiotics in irrigated MWTP effluents has been found to stimulate the proliferation of heavy metal and antibiotic resistances by altering soil microbial communities. This study will enhance our comprehension of the co-selection between ARGs and MRGs, as well as reveal the concealed environmental impacts of combined pollution. The obtained results have important implications for food safety and human health in rice.

12. Urban environment and green spaces as factors influencing sedentary behaviour in school-aged children

Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, Volume 88, October 2023, 128081

Abstract

Urban environment has been increasingly recognised as a health determinant able to promote healthy or unhealthy lifestyles. The growing use of technology and urbanization is influencing people behaviours, making them more sedentary. In children, this may be even more relevant as childhood is a critical period for creating bases for lifelong health and well-being. Given the potential for the urban environment to influence health, we investigated the association between some key characteristics of the urban environment and sedentary behaviour in school-aged children. We recruited 331 healthy children (9–11 years, 52% males), whose parents were asked to quantify their time spent in several sedentary activities. We derived two sedentary behaviour outcomes: the total daily sedentary time and the screen time. Exposure to less urbanized and more vegetated area was derived by combining key environmental attributes using Principal Component Analysis. Independently of age, sex and BMI children living in less urbanized and more vegetated areas reported 12 min less of daily sedentary time (β: −12, 95% CI from −22 to −2; p = 0.02) and were less likely to exceed the recommended daily screen time (2 h/day) (OR: 0.86 95% CI 0.74–1, 00; p = 0.056). A stronger association was found in children whose mothers were highly educated, suggesting that maternal education level acts as effect modifier. Our findings highlight that environmental characteristics may shape children’s health by influencing their lifestyles, and should be considered in Public Health strategy to prevent sedentary behaviour and promote more sustainable and healthier cities.

13. Towards sustainability: The impact of the multidimensional morphological evolution of urban land on carbon emissions

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 424, 20 October 2023, 138888

Abstract

The examination of explicit and implicit urban land forms and their impact on carbon emissions (CEs) can effectively balance economic development with environmental sustainability. Prior studies have only considered individual factors, such as the scale and structure of urban land use (ULU), without accounting for its multidimensional evolution. To address this limitation, we analyzed data from 44 cities around the Bohai Sea between 2000 and 2020, developing a land-use index system that includes urban land quality. Our results present a nuanced view of the urban land use patterns (ULUPs) in the Bohai Rim region over the 20-year period. We found that all indices of ULUPs demonstrated a trend of improvement. Specifically, the structural pattern index (TS) was typically high, with values ranging between 0.65 and 0.80. The quality pattern index (TQ) witnessed the most significant growth. In contrast, the scale pattern index (TA) and the layout pattern index (TP) registered a relatively lower and slower-paced growth. Simultaneously, we observed an intriguing pattern in the CEs in the Bohai Rim region – an initial surge was followed by a considerable slowdown, as the growth rate plummeted from 88% to a mere 3%. There were noticeable regional variances, with the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region registering a lesser increase compared to the Liaodong Peninsula. As our study progressed, we uncovered distinctive and evolving influences of the land use morphology factors on the Bohai Rim region’s CEs. A progressively rising number of factors emerged as significantly influential, with their suppressive impact on CEs becoming increasingly potent. Notably, land allocated to public service facilities, green spaces, and squares was found to be associated with reduced CEs. Moreover, our study reveals a clear link between quality optimization of ULU and effective restraint on CEs, whereas larger scales of urban land result in increased CEs. Our findings also show that a continuous and stable optimization of the multidimensional pattern of urban land, accompanied by a relatively stable optimization path, can favorably suppress CEs. This confirms the critical role of strategic land use management in controlling CEs. Our paper provides policy guidance for creating low-carbon, sustainable cities through efficient leveraging of land resources.

14. Road traffic noise annoyance mitigation by green window view: Optimizing green quantity and quality

Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, Volume 88, October 2023, 128072

Original article

Abstract

There is convincing real-life evidence that seeing outdoor vegetation through the windows of one’s dwelling is able to mitigate negative health effects due to exposure to environmental noise, in particular for noise annoyance due to road traffic. However, design guidelines with respect to green quantity and quality to maximally benefit from this audio-visual interaction are currently lacking, but are mandatory when this idea is to be used in urban sound (and green) planning. Therefore, two virtual reality (VR) experiments were conducted, where participants were positioned near the window of a living room overlooking a city ring road, where the central reservation was used to design various greening scenarios. Participants were exposed to an A-weighted equivalent sound pressure level of 67 dB at eardrum (window partly opened). In the first experiment (79 participants), containing trees of two visually similar tree species, the optimal green quantity (using RGB greenness) was found to be near 30%. This effect, however, was not very pronounced and only amounted to 0.5 units on an 11-point noise annoyance scale. Only the very dense vegetation belt (50%) lead to a higher self-reported noise annoyance at the 5% statistical significance level. In the second VR experiment (62 other participants), vegetation quantity was fixed near this optimum, while green quality varied on the dimensions species richness, colorfulness, and maintenance degree. Green infrastructure containing most colors, or those containing most species, lead to a minimum in self-reported noise annoyance (0.7 units difference on the 11-point annoyance scale). Further analysis suggested that aesthetic value of the green infrastructure is the driving factor for the positive audio-visual interactions observed, consistent with the presumed mechanisms why green window view is able to reduce noise annoyance at home.

15. Urban green infrastructures to improve pedestrian thermal comfort: A systematic review

Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, Volume 88, October 2023, 128091

Abstract

Evidence of heat mitigation through green infrastructure has been extensively documented and quantified in the literature; however, the effectiveness of implementing these strategies regarding thermal comfort at the pedestrian level has not received the same attention. Thus, this paper aims to investigate the role of UGI strategies on pedestrian the thermal comfort in different climatic contexts. Seventy-six peer-reviewed studies were included, analysed and synthesised for their (i) methodological approaches, (ii) pedestrian-level heat mitigation effects. It is seen that there is a positive association of UGI with pedestrian thermal comfort in temperate, continental, arid and tropical climates. Concerning to heat mitigation effects, street trees, green spaces and green walls have great cooling potential. However, green roofs have a negligible effect at the pedestrian level. The evolution of the role of the UGI for pedestrian thermal comfort in different climatic zones reveals the need to develop urban projects based on choosing the “right tree in the right place”. Furthermore, the challenges of evaluating the heat mitigation performance of the UGI require procedures to compensate for psychological influences on thermal perception and standardized monitoring protocols to increase the reliability of the results and allow comparisons between different studies.

16. Cross-media migration behavior of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) from municipal wastewater treatment systems (MWTSs): Fugitive characteristics, sharing mechanisms, and aerosolization behavior

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 893, 1 October 2023, 164710

Abstract

The municipal wastewater treatment systems (MWTSs) are the leading enrichment site of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), the occurrence of which in sewage and sludge significantly influences the ARGs burden of aerosols. However, the migration behavior and impact factors of ARGs in gas–liquid–solid phase are still unclear. This study collected gas (aerosol), liquid (sewage), and solid (sludge) samples from three MWTSs to explore the cross-media transport behavior of ARGs. The results showed that the main ARGs detected in the solid–gas-liquid phase were consistent, constituting the central antibiotic resistance system of MWTSs. Multidrug resistance genes dominated cross-media transmission (average relative abundance is 42.01 %). Aminocoumarin, fluoroquinolone, and aminoglycoside resistance genes (aerosolization index of 1.260, 1.329, and 1.609, respectively) were prone to migrating from the liquid to gas phase, resulting in long-distance transmission. Environmental factors (mainly temperature and wind speed), water quality index (mainly COD), and heavy metals may be the key factors affecting the trans-media migration of ARGs between the liquid, gas, and solid phase. Based on partial least squares path modeling (PLS-PM), the migration of ARGs in gas phase is primarily influenced by ARGs’ aerosolization potential in liquid and solid phase, while heavy metals indirectly influences almost all categories of ARGs. Impact factors aggravated the migration of ARGs in MWTSs through co-selection pressure. This study clarified the key pathways and impact factors that form the cross-media migration behavior of ARGs, which can more specifically control ARGs pollution from different media.

INDUSTRIAL AREA ENVIRONMENT / MÔI TRƯỜNG KHU CÔNG NGHIỆP

1. The heterogeneous effects of Chinese industrial parks on environmental pollution

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 896, 20 October 2023, 165279

Abstract

As a form of regional agglomeration, industrial parks create huge benefits for China’s economic development, but they also generate considerable environmental externalities and are expected to become the breakthrough to achieve green transformation. This study builds a panel data set by combining a variety of data on the environmental and economic characteristics of firms, industrial parks, and regions, and empirically investigates the effects of establishing industrial parks on emissions of COD, NH3, SO2, and dust. We find such effects are heterogeneous across scales of investigation and types of industrial parks. After entering the industrial parks, firms can reduce their environmental pollution, and the emissions of COD, SO2 and dust have decreased by 9.3 %, 13.4 % and 4.6 %, respectively. However, the study at the regional level finds that, after the establishment of industrial parks, the overall emissions of COD, NH3, SO2, and dust have increased by 37.9 %, 365 %, 45.5 % and 34.9 %, respectively. The expansion of production scale and the increase of pollution-intensive industries are the main factors that cause more serious regional pollution. Meanwhile, the improvement of pollution treatment is very limited. After the establishment of a new park, the emission intensities of newly entered firms are higher than those of pre-existing firms, indicating industrial parks may lower environmental requirements in exchange for economic growth. Parks with clean dominant industries, high levels of water reuse and technical innovation tend to emit less pollutants. Based on the results, this study gives four suggestions for establishing environment-friendly industrial parks, that is, to plan the industrial layout rationally, to speed up the construction of pollution treatment facilities, to increase the environmental threshold for entrance, and to promote technical innovation.

2. Does industrial convergence mitigate CO2 emissions in China? A quasi-natural experiment on “Triple Play” Reform

Energy Economics, Available online 18 October 2023, 107107

Abstract

As a crucial aspect of industrial development, the influence of industrial convergence on the environment cannot be ignored. This paper uses the “Triple Play” Reform (TPR) policy as a representative case of industrial convergence for constructing a quasi-natural experimental analysis framework. Using panel data from 285 Chinese cities spanning the period of 2004 to 2016, we examine the influence of the industrial convergence policy on per capita CO2 emissions using a multi-period difference-in-differences (DID) model. The results indicate that the TPR reduces CO2 emissions in China. Furthermore, the TPR policy indirectly decreases per capita CO2 emissions through industrial structure upgrading and the promotion of green technology innovation. Most importantly, the carbon emission-reduction effect of TPR is heterogeneous according to geographical differences, resource endowment, and city size. The research findings contribute to filling a gap in the literature by demonstrating how industrial convergence policies can mitigate CO2 emissions in China and offer valuable insights for future industrial convergence practices and emission reduction strategies in China.

3. Impact of different industrial activities on heavy metals in floodplain soil and ecological risk assessment based on bioavailability: A case study from the Middle Yellow River Basin, northern China

Environmental Research, Volume 235, 15 October 2023, 116695

Abstract

Understanding the impact of different industrial activities on heavy metals and conducting scientific ecological risk assessments are critical to the management of heavy metal pollution. The present study compared soils affected by different industrial activities in three types of industrial cities (coal city, oil-gas city, and economic city) to control samples and examined the ecological risk based on bioavailability in the Middle Yellow River Basin. The findings revealed that the impact characteristics of different industrial activities on soil heavy metals in the research area were different. Both coal-based and oil-gas industry activities had a minor impact on soil heavy metals, whereas economic industry activities in the southern part had a major impact, as evidenced by significant enrichment of Cd, Hg, Cu, Pb, and Zn. In principal component analysis, the soil heavy metals affected by economic industry activities designated a distinct source from the control samples, particularly the anthropogenic sources represented by Hg and Cd. In the context of heavy metals in chemical form, three types of industrial activities all had an effect on bioavailability (0.72–24.27%) and could increase migratory activity in the environment. Furthermore, both traditional and improved assessments, based on total content and bioavailability, showed a low ecological risk near coal cities and oil-gas cities in the middle and northern parts, while there was a medium-high ecological risk near economically developed cities in the south, particularly Tianshui, Baoji, Qishan, Xianyang, Xi’an, and Tongchuan. In comparison, improved risk assessment based on bioavailability tends to not only compensate for an overestimation in traditional risk assessment from the perspective of total content, but additionally achieve a more reasonable, effective, and advanced assessment of heavy metal risks in scientific research. The outcome of this study has significance for the ecological conservation and high-quality development of the Yellow River Basin.

4. How does natural resource dependence influence industrial green transformation in China? Appraising underlying mechanisms for sustainable development at regional level

Resources Policy, Volume 86, Part A, October 2023, 104191

Abstract

Natural resource and environmental carrying capacity bound industrial green transformation, and global economies are striving to ensure sustainable transformation. In response, efficient use of natural resources and reduced natural resource dependence have emerged as critical factors, mainly in industrial countries. Hence, this study empirically assesses how natural resource dependence affects industrial green transformation using Chinese regional data from 2008 to 2020. The results reveal that natural resource dependence inhibits industrial green transformation. Although the inhibitory effects of natural resource dependence are significant in both east-central and western regions, it is more pronounced in the east-central region. It inhibits industrial green transformation by dampening marketization, industrial structure upgrading, and human capital. These findings offer valuable suggestions for effective resource management.

5. Simple and environmentally friendly metal recovery from waste printed circuit boards by using deep eutectic solvents

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 421, 1 October 2023, 138508

Abstract

Increased environmental awareness has necessitated the development of a simple and environmentally friendly method for metal recovery from waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs). Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are environmentally friendly and non-aqueous lixiviants that can leach metal oxides to replace mineral acids. In this study, three choline chloride (ChCl)-based DESs were synthesized, using ethylene glycol, oxalic acid (OA), and glycolic acid (GA) as the hydrogen bond donors in the eutectic mixtures. The time-dependent leaching yields and saturated loading capacities of the DESs to typical metal oxides and Ag were evaluated. Considering the leaching performances, a simple and environmentally friendly method for metal recovery from WPCBs was established, based on two-stage DES leaching processes. The research object was the mixed metal powder collected from the mechanical processing of WPCBs. The results indicated that 90.35% of Zn, 87.47% of Pb, and 16.77% of Cu were removed from the mixed metal powder after calcination by leaching of the ChCl-GA DES and precipitation of the oxalic acid solution. When the residue was subjected to ChCl-OA DES leaching, Cu was recovered by diluting ChCl-OA DES with water. Specifically, 74.93% of Cu was separated in the form of CuC2O4·2H2O with a purity of >98 wt%. The Sn remaining in the aqueous solution was efficiently recovered by the addition of reduced Fe powder, and the recovery yield of Sn in the recovery product was 51.29%. Finally, the advantages of a simplified and environmentally friendly process framework, are highlighted by a comparison of the recovery strategy for WPCB proposed in this study with conventional pyro- and hydro-metallurgical approaches.

6. Methodology for a preliminary assessment of water use sustainability in industries at sub-basin level

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 343, 1 October 2023, 118163

Abstract

The sustainability of industrial production, especially for highly water-demanding processes, is strictly related to water resource availability and to the dynamic interactions between natural and anthropogenic requirements over the spatial and temporal scales. The increase in industrial water demand raises the need to assess the related environmental sustainability, facing the occurrence of global and local water stress issues. The identification of reliable methodologies, based on simple indices and able to consider the impact on local water basins, may play a basilar role in water sustainability diagnosis and decision-making processes for water management and land use planning. The present work focalized on the definition of a methodology based on the calculation of indicators and indices in the view of providing a synthetic, simple, and site-specific assessment tool for industrial water cycle sustainability. The methodology was built starting from geo-referenced data on water availability and sectorial uses derived for Italian sub-basins. According to the data monthly time scale, the proposed indices allowed for an industrial water-related impacts assessment, able to take into account the seasonal variability of local resources. Three industrial factories, located in northern (SB1, SB2) and central (SB3) Italian sub-basins, were selected as case studies (CS1, CS2, CS3) to validate the methodology. The companies were directly involved and asked to provide some input data. The methodology is based on the calculation of three synthetic indexes: the Withdrawal and Consumption water Stress Index (WCSI) allowed for deriving a synthetic water stress level assessment at the sub-basin scale, also considering the spatial and temporal variations; the industrial water use sustainability assessment was achieved by calculating the Overall Factory-to-Basin Impact (OFBI) and the Internal Water Reuse (IWR) indices, which allowed a preliminary evaluation of the factories’ impacts on the sub-basin water status, considering the related water uses and the overall pressures on the reference territorial context. The WCSI values highlighted significant differences between the northern sub-basins, characterised by limited water stress (WCSISB1 = 0.221; WCSISB2 = 0.047), and the central ones, more subjected to high stress (WCSISB3 = 0.413). The case studies CS1 and CS3 showed to exert a more significant impact on the local water resource (OFBICS1 = 0.18%; OFBICS2 = 0.192%) with respect to CS2 (OFBI = 0.002%), whereas the IWR index revealed the different company’s attitude in implementing water reuse practices (IWRCS1 = 40%; IWRCS1 = 27%; IWRCS1 = 99%). The proposed methodology and the indices may also contribute to assessing the effectiveness of river basin management actions to pursue sustainable development goals.

7. Tracing nickel smelter emissions using European honey bees

Environmental Pollution, Volume 335, 15 October 2023, 122257

Abstract

This study investigated trace element contamination in honey bees inhabiting urban areas around the South Pacific’s largest and longest operating nickel smelter in Nouméa, New Caledonia. There remains a paucity of research on the environmental impact of nickel smelting, and to date, there has been no assessment of its effects on the popular practice of beekeeping, or whether honey bees are a suitable tracer for nickel smelting emissions. Honey bees and honey were sampled from 15 hives across Nouméa to ascertain linkages between nickel smelter emissions, environmental contamination, and trace element uptake by bees. Comparison of washed and unwashed bees revealed no significant difference in trace element concentrations, indicating trace elements bioaccumulate within the internal tissues of bees over time. Accordingly, trace element concentrations were higher in dead bees than those that were sampled live, with smelter related elements chromium, cobalt and nickel being significantly different at p < 0.05. Except for boron, trace element concentrations were consistently higher in bees than in honey, suggesting that the transfer of trace elements from bees during honey production is negligible. Elevated concentrations of potentially toxic trace elements including cobalt, chromium and nickel in bees declined with distance from smelting operations (Spearman’s Rho, p < 0.05), indicating the relationship between environmental contamination and the uptake of trace elements by bees. The findings of this study emphasise potential environmental and human health risks associated with trace element contamination from nickel smelting operations and affirm the use of honey bees as a biomonitor of potentially harmful nickel smelting emissions.

8. Integration and intensification of thermal processes to increase energy efficiency and mitigate environmental pollution for sustainable development of industry – PRES’22

Thermal Science and Engineering Progress, Volume 45, 1 October 2023, 102148

Abstract

Integration and intensification of thermal processes contribute greatly to energy efficiency improvement and environmental pollution mitigation, thus, leading to the sustainable development of the industry. A wide range of topic areas have been covered by PRES’22 – e.g., Heat Exchanger Networks (HENs) optimisation, Total Site Integration, heat transfer enhancement and heat exchanger design, renewable energy, waste and fuel processing for improved energy supply, and fundamentals and novel concepts in thermal science applications. All these areas are key components of the contemporary science development directed for increase of efficiency in energy generation and usage to strengthen sustainability in industry. Being carefully selected from totally 413 conference presentations in hybrid mode (154 on site), the papers in special issue adequately represent the main topics in thermal science and engineering discussed during this event. After a thorough review, the current Special Issue accepted 15 excellent contributions that are summarised here. The general advancement observed in the selected articles is energy efficiency improvement at the process level of up to 10–15 %. This, however, has to be further combined with Process Integration measures, to achieve more significant reductions in energy demands, which is the key challenge for enabling renewable sources to become sufficient.

The review also points out the future research direction that the integration of renewable energy sources (e.g., solar, wind, biomass) and waste utilisation for energy storage aroused much more attention in recent years, while the heat transfer enhancement and optimisation in energy systems are still fundamental research topics that should be intensively studied.

9. Maximizing the benefits of combining fibroin and sericin: Functionalized obsoleted silk cocoon shell for purifying oily wastewater containing Pb2+

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 422, 10 October 2023, 138573

Abstract

Based on the durability of fibroin and the biocompatibility of sericin, researchers are exploring ways to maximize their advantages by combining them in the biomedical field. Fortunately, silk cocoon shell (SC) offers a natural composite material of fibroin and sericin. However, the inherent hydrophobicity of SC, the random arrangement connection of fibers, and the protection provided by the outer sericin limit its application in purifying oil wastewater. In this work, a cost-effective method was developed to improve the hydrophilicity of SC and the mechanical properties of SC by utilizing obsoleted SC as a matrix as well as by dissolving portions of sericin proteins. The polydopamine particle (PDP) was utilized as the intermediate modification layer and a supramolecular gel (SMG) was introduced to the surface of SC, further improving the surface’s hydrophilicity of SC. The study indicated that SC@P-SMG has excellent mechanical properties, favorable anti-fouling properties, and superior self-cleaning ability. Furthermore, when the SC@P-SMG was applied in water purification, it could achieve multifunctional applications such as purifying wastewater containing emulsified oil and Pb2+ ions, methylene blue (MB), and oil-water mixture separation. This work provided innovative ideas to maximize the benefits of combining fibroin and sericin.

10. Greenhouse gas emissions from extractive industries in a globalized era

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 343, 1 October 2023, 118172

Abstract

The extractive industry consumes vast amounts of energy and is a major contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, its climatic impacts have not yet been fully accounted for. In this study, we estimated the GHG emissions from extractive activities globally with a focus on China, and assessed the main emission drivers. In addition, we predicted the Chinese extractive industry emissions in the context of global mineral demand and cycling. As of 2020, GHG emissions from the global extractive industry had reached 7.7 billion tons of CO2 equivalents (CO2e), accounting for approximately 15.0% of the global anthropogenic GHG emissions (excluding GHG emissions from land use, land-use change, and forestry activities (LULUCF), with China being the largest emitter, accounting for 3.5% of global emissions. Extractive industry GHG emissions are projected to peak by 2030 or even earlier to achieve low-carbon peak targets. The most critical pathway for reducing GHG emissions in the extractive industry is to control emissions from coal mining. Therefore, reducing methane emissions from mining and washing coal (MWC) should be prioritized.

11. Assessment of industrial by-products as amendments to stabilize antimony mine wastes

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 343, 1 October 2023, 118218

Abstract

The spread of antimony from mine wastes to the environment represents a matter of great concern due to its adverse effects on impacted ecosystems. There is an urgent need for developing and adopting sustainable and inexpensive measures to deal with this type of wastes. In this study the Sb leaching behavior of mine waste rocks and mine tailings derived from the exploitation of Sb ore deposits was characterized using standard batch leaching tests (TCLP and EN-12457-4) and column leaching essays. Accordingly, these mine wastes were characterized as toxic (>0.6 mg Sb L−1) and not acceptable at hazardous waste landfills (>5 mg Sb kg−1), showing also an ongoing Sb release under prolonged leaching conditions. Two industrial by-products were evaluated as amendments to stabilize them, namely deferrisation sludge (DFS) and a by-product derived from the treatment of aluminum salt slags (BP–Al). Mine wastes were amended with different doses (0–25%) of DFS or BP-Al and the performance of these treatments was evaluated employing also batch and column leaching procedures. The effectiveness of DFS to immobilize Sb was much higher than that exhibited by BP-Al. Thus, treatments with 25% BP-Al showed Sb immobilization levels of approximately 33–53%, whereas treatments with 5 and 25% DFS already attained Sb immobilization levels up to approximately 80–90 and 90–99%, respectively. Mine tailings amended with 5% DFS and mine waste rocks amended with 25% DFS decreased their leachable Sb contents below the limit for non-hazardous waste landfill acceptance (<0.7 mg Sb kg−1). Likewise, these DFS treatments were able to revert their toxic characterization. Moreover, the 25% DFS treatment showed to be a long-lasting stabilizing system, efficient at least during a leaching period equivalent to 10-year rainfall with a great Sb leaching reduction (close to 98%). After this long-term leaching process, DFS-treated mine wastes kept their non-hazardous and non-toxic characterization. The amorphous Fe (oxyhydr)oxides composing DFS were responsible for the important Sb removal capacity showed by this by-product. Thus, when DFS was applied to mine wastes mobile Sb was importantly fixed as non-desorbable Sb, showing also a considerable Sb removal capacity in presence of strong competing anions such as phosphate. The application of DFS as amendment presents a great potential to be used as a sustainable long-term stabilizing system of Sb mine wastes.

12. Big data industry development and carbon dioxide emissions: A quasi-natural experiment

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 422, 10 October 2023, 138590

Abstract

Big data industry development and carbon dioxide emissions reduction are the crucial driver and objective functions of economic growth, respectively. Whether the two types of corresponding policies can achieve the “win-win” effect is the key to green development transformation in the future. However, little attention has been paid to the influence of big data industry development on carbon dioxide emissions. Based on the quasi-natural experiment in China’s national big data comprehensive experimental area, the paper identifies the causal effect between big data industry development and carbon dioxide emissions. Specifically, the panel data of 282 cities in China spanning from 2010 to 2019 are used in regression analysis. The study reveals that the big data industry development has a substantial impact in reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Meanwhile, the findings are confirmed by a set of rigorous robustness checks. The heterogeneity analyses suggest that the effect of inhibiting carbon dioxide emissions due to the big data industry development is more significant in eastern & central China, and large-sized cities. In addition, the big data industry reduces carbon dioxide emissions through the effects of industrial structure optimization, technological innovation, and resource allocation. Our findings contribute to the nexus between big data industry development and carbon dioxide emissions. In light of these findings, the paper recommends that governments integrate economic growth and environmental protection policies by promoting big data industry development.

13. Methodology for a preliminary assessment of water use sustainability in industries at sub-basin level

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 343, 1 October 2023, 118163

Abstract

The sustainability of industrial production, especially for highly water-demanding processes, is strictly related to water resource availability and to the dynamic interactions between natural and anthropogenic requirements over the spatial and temporal scales. The increase in industrial water demand raises the need to assess the related environmental sustainability, facing the occurrence of global and local water stress issues. The identification of reliable methodologies, based on simple indices and able to consider the impact on local water basins, may play a basilar role in water sustainability diagnosis and decision-making processes for water management and land use planning. The present work focalized on the definition of a methodology based on the calculation of indicators and indices in the view of providing a synthetic, simple, and site-specific assessment tool for industrial water cycle sustainability. The methodology was built starting from geo-referenced data on water availability and sectorial uses derived for Italian sub-basins. According to the data monthly time scale, the proposed indices allowed for an industrial water-related impacts assessment, able to take into account the seasonal variability of local resources. Three industrial factories, located in northern (SB1, SB2) and central (SB3) Italian sub-basins, were selected as case studies (CS1, CS2, CS3) to validate the methodology. The companies were directly involved and asked to provide some input data. The methodology is based on the calculation of three synthetic indexes: the Withdrawal and Consumption water Stress Index (WCSI) allowed for deriving a synthetic water stress level assessment at the sub-basin scale, also considering the spatial and temporal variations; the industrial water use sustainability assessment was achieved by calculating the Overall Factory-to-Basin Impact (OFBI) and the Internal Water Reuse (IWR) indices, which allowed a preliminary evaluation of the factories’ impacts on the sub-basin water status, considering the related water uses and the overall pressures on the reference territorial context. The WCSI values highlighted significant differences between the northern sub-basins, characterised by limited water stress (WCSISB1 = 0.221; WCSISB2 = 0.047), and the central ones, more subjected to high stress (WCSISB3 = 0.413). The case studies CS1 and CS3 showed to exert a more significant impact on the local water resource (OFBICS1 = 0.18%; OFBICS2 = 0.192%) with respect to CS2 (OFBI = 0.002%), whereas the IWR index revealed the different company’s attitude in implementing water reuse practices (IWRCS1 = 40%; IWRCS1 = 27%; IWRCS1 = 99%). The proposed methodology and the indices may also contribute to assessing the effectiveness of river basin management actions to pursue sustainable development goals.

14. Industrially relevant pyrolysis of diverse contaminated organic wastes: Gas compositions and emissions to air

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 423, 15 October 2023, 138777

Abstract

Pyrolysis is a promising waste handling technique compared to incineration, especially due to its potential for greenhouse gas reduction through biochar carbon removal. This study investigated greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions and emission factors from waste feedstocks and a reference clean wood pyrolyzed at 500–800 °C in an industrially relevant small version Biogreen® unit with condensation prior to pyrolysis gas combustion. Emissions were generally lower than literature values, except for nitrogen oxides (NOX) and sulfur dioxide (SO2). Methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions ranged 30–570 mg CH4 and 0–32 mg N2O per kg biochar produced. Waste lignocellulosics (waste timber and garden waste) had comparable emissions to clean wood, except for higher NOX emissions. All waste feedstocks exceeded the EU NOX emission limit value for waste incineration (>200 mg NOX/Nm3 at 11% oxygen, O2), while no carbon monoxide (CO) was measured (<0.6 mg/Nm3) suggesting possible compliance with EU emission limit values for waste incineration with simple pollution control measures such as air-to-fuel ratio regulation, or other NOX reducing measures such as flue gas recirculation or selective (non-)catalytic reduction. Sludges and food waste reject also exceeded the SO2 EU emission limit value (50 mg SO2/Nm3 at 11% O2) for waste incineration, emissions ranging 61–298 mg SO2/Nm3 at 11% O2, indicating the potential need for SO2 pollution control. In conclusion, this study shows continuous pyrolysis with condensation as a promising alternative for waste management with potential for simplified air pollution control compared to incineration. Future work should focus on optimized combustion systems for waste pyrolysis and emissions from waste pyrolysis without condensation.

15. The combining and cooperative effects of carbon price and technological innovation on carbon emission reduction: Evidence from China’s industrial enterprises

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 343, 1 October 2023, 118188

Abstract

To achieve the carbon peaking and neutrality targets in China, carbon price and technological innovation will play increasingly important roles in recent future. It is widely-known that carbon price and technological innovation can contribute significantly to emission reduction, respectively; but it is still unclear whether the cooperation effects of carbon price and technological innovation would be positive or negative. In this paper, we assume that there are 3 types of emission reduction measures in China’s industrial enterprises, which are improvement of energy efficiency, adjustment of energy structure, and substitution of pollution inputs and non-pollution inputs; then we introduce carbon price and technological innovation respectively and simultaneously, and establish 12 scenarios based on the Data Envelopment Analysis models combined with material balance principal (DEA-MBP), and estimate the additional emission reductions and additional production costs of China’s industrial enterprises when carbon price and technological innovation exist respectively or simultaneously. The counterfactually estimating results show that there would be significant regional and sectorial heterogeneities in carbon emission reduction characteristics for China’s industrial enterprises. If low-carbon technologies in some sectors have the ability to reduce carbon emissions at the expense of high additional production cost, carbon pricing policies would encourage enterprises to adopt new mitigation technologies and increase additional emission reduction by more than 20%, especially technologies focusing on the adjustment of energy structure and the substitution of pollution inputs by non-pollution inputs. However, in some sectors which have already been covered by carbon pricing policies, the additional carbon pricing policy may not have a significant effect on emission reduction, and the emission reduction would decrease by 10%.

16. Emission reduction estimation by coupling peer-to-peer energy sharing with carbon emission markets considering temporal and spatial factors

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 421, 1 October 2023, 138452

Abstract

This paper presents an energy-sharing market coupled with carbon emission trading to quantify peer-to-peer energy-sharing markets’ economic and environmental influences. We establish a bi-level peer-to-peer energy sharing market considering the interaction between energy prosumers and the system operator. An interaction algorithm and generalized Nash game are thus applied in this work. With the simulation results, we find that the daily disutility of provincial systems is reduced by about 7 when time-of-use electricity rates are applied. This pricing strategy can encourage prosumers to participate in energy-sharing transactions. The subsidies of electricity rates, carbon prices, and renewable energy investments can improve the social welfare of the whole system. Considering the development of power generation technology and emission reduction targets, the change of optimization parameters in the next 30 years is analyzed in the example. It can be concluded that the total CO2 emission in 2050 will be reduced to almost half of that in 2020 in the energy-sharing markets. The subsidy of renewable energy generation and stricter CO2 emission constraints may accelerate the reduction of carbon emissions.

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