Environmental Sustainability Benefits Research Articles

The combine impact of stock market, international investment and clean energy consumption on ecological footprint in emerging countries

Purpose Emerging nations strive to diminish their ecological impact to meet net-zero targets, yet encounter formidable hurdles in curbing their environmental footprint. This purpose necessitated the study into impact of stock market, renewable energy and international investment on the ecological footprint in emerging countries from 1990 to 2020. Design/methodology/approach The study used augmented mean group (AMG) estimator, cointegration and heterogenous panel causality approach. Findings Results from the AMG show that renewable energy consumption reduces environmental pollution in most countries except Mexico. The study disclosed that stock market capitalization decreases ecological footprint in emerging countries. Using both the Kao and Pedroni cointegration methods, the study affirms the existence of stable equilibrium relationship in the long term. The causality test concluded a bidirectional relationship between stock market and ecological footprint and a unidirectional link between international investment, clean energy and ecological footprint. Research limitations/implications The research is limited to only emerging countries. Therefore, future research should examine the environmental impacts of renewable energy consumption in different countries and regions, taking into account the local environmental conditions, policies and practices. This would help to identify the best practices and standards for minimizing the ecological footprint of renewable energy technologies and maximizing their benefits for environmental sustainability. Practical implications The study found that stock market capitalization reduces ecological footprint in Brazil, China, Turkey and India. To foster a culture of sustainability in stock market development impact, academic policies should emphasize the integration of environmental education across disciplines. By promoting awareness of the ecological consequences of stock market activities, societies can cultivate a mindset that values responsible economic practices. This, in turn, can lead to informed decision-making at individual and institutional levels. Social implications First, since the study found that clean energy reduces ecological footprint, advocating for utilization of clean energy sources could be a key priority in emerging countries. Governments should incentivize the development and adoption of renewable energy technologies, such as wind and solar power, by providing subsidies and tax benefits. Furthermore, increasing awareness among residents about the benefits of clean energy and promoting its utilization in both residential and commercial environments can expedite the transition to a more environmentally friendly energy combination. Originality/value First, it pioneers an exploration into the interplay between stock market capitalization, international investment, clean energy and ecological footprint in emerging countries. Secondary unlike, unlike prior research, this study uses methodologies that account for cross-sectional dependencies and a unique characteristic specific to each country. In addition, by using common correlated effects mean group, AMG, cointegration and causality procedures, this study distinctly isolates and analyzes empirical findings for each country, leading to policy-oriented outcomes.

Perception of Locals on Multiple Contributions of NTFPs to the Livelihoods of Forest Fringe Communities in Ghana

Forest-dwelling residents frequently collect non-timber forest products (NTFPs) for various reasons, such as food, medicine, firewood, religious reasons, or handicrafts. This study examines the multiple benefits derived from NTFPs and how they contribute to the livelihoods of Ghanaian communities to alleviate poverty. Resources and services provided by NTFPs have an essential role in providing economic, nutritional, medicinal, cultural, and environmental benefits. This study examines the diverse range of NTFPs locals collect, such as chewing sticks, games, herbs, honey, leaves, mushrooms, pestles, raffia and palms, snails, and straws. In addition to serving different purposes, these NTFPs contribute to income generation, food security, health care, cultural practices, and the protection of the environment. A qualitative research approach was used in this study to collect data through semi-structured interviews and focus groups with members on multiple collections of NTFPs and their multiple benefits. We interviewed 732 residents regarding their multiple NTFPs and their potential to improve the livelihood of the locals. The data for the study were analysed using descriptive statistics. As a result of the survey, the frequency and percentages of responses were analysed for each indicator related to multiple values of NTFPs. Both males and females collected a list of NTFPs during the survey. Regarding NTFPs used for sale, 275 were reported, representing 37.57% of the total. In addition to emphasising the importance of sustainable management practices and equitable distribution of benefits, the study explores the multiple benefits of NTFPs for poverty alleviation in Ghanaian communities. It is essential to ensure the conservation of forest ecosystems and promote inclusive policies to harness the potential of NTFPs and maximise their positive impact on livelihoods. NTFPs provide multiple benefits for Ghanaian communities, including income, nutrition, healthcare, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability. To promote sustainable development, it is imperative to understand the role of NTFPs and implement appropriate strategies.

Electrochemical Treatment for Real Hospital Wastewater and its Future Prospect

<p>Purpose: This study investigates the efficacy of electrochemical remediation techniques in treating hospital wastewater, focusing on parameters including turbidity, color, BOD, COD, DO, coliform, and E. coli. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study conducts a comprehensive analysis of various pollutant parameters, evaluating the impact of contact time on pollutant reduction. Electrochemical methods are explored for their potential in mitigating these parameters. Conclusions: The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of electrochemical techniques in reducing a range of pollutant parameters, with significant reductions observed in turbidity (up to 99%), color (51%), BOD (99%), COD (60%), and microbial contaminants such as E. coli and coliform (up to 48%). Notably, the study reveals that higher voltage doesn't consistently result in superior performance. Limitations/Consequences of Research: While the study showcases promising results, certain limitations and challenges are acknowledged, including the need for further research to address these constraints and optimize electrochemical remediation processes. Practical Value: The study highlights the practical potential of electrochemical techniques as an effective means of wastewater treatment in hospital settings, offering insights into their application and benefits for environmental sustainability. Originality and Significance of Results: This research contributes novel insights into the application of electrochemical methods for hospital wastewater treatment, emphasizing their efficacy in reducing various pollutant parameters and providing a foundation for future research directions in this field.</p>

Effectiveness of areca fiber and cement on the engineering characteristics of compressed stabilized earth blocks

This study investigates the potential of integrating areca fiber as a reinforcement agent in Compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks (CSEBs), used in combination with cement. Traditional earth-based construction methods, once prevalent, have seen a decline in industrialized nations with the advent of modern building materials. However, there is a growing resurgence in the use of earth-based materials, motivated by their economic, social, and environmental sustainability benefits. This renewed interest in CSEBs is primarily due to their superior energy efficiency and lower greenhouse gas emissions, especially when compared to conventional materials like fired clay bricks or concrete blocks. Areca catechu, widely recognized as the areca palm, thrives in the tropical regions of the Pacific, Asia, and East Africa. The fibers derived from areca nutshells, often regarded as agricultural waste, present an intriguing material for study. While the application of areca fiber in soil reinforcement has been previously acknowledged in scholarly literature, its specific role in enhancing the engineering properties of CSEBs represents a novel area of exploration, which this research aims to address comprehensively. In this research endeavor, CSEBs were manufactured with varying proportions of areca fibers, spanning from 0 % to 3 %, based on the dry mass of soil. Subsequently, these blocks underwent comprehensive testing to assess their strength and durability characteristics. Strength properties were evaluated through unconfined compression, split tensile strength, and flexural strength tests, while durability was meticulously examined using wet strength, water absorption, submersion, and efflorescence tests. Here, CSEBs displayed increases in compressive strength (107.04–436.38 %), split tensile strength (208.66–358.08 %), and flexural strength (16.49–82.47 %). Durability tests revealed enhanced wet compressive strength (up to 100.42 % increase) and optimized water absorption rates. A notable finding is identifying 2 % areca fiber content as optimal, yielding significant improvements in strength and durability parameters. Microstructural analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) further confirmed the benefits of 2 % fiber content, showing a compact and cohesive internal structure with reduced voids and fissures. This microstructural integrity underlines the enhanced bonding and stability imparted by the areca fibers. Another essential aspect of the study was evaluating the compliance of CSEBs with various international standards on earthen construction. The fiber-reinforced blocks met or exceeded several standards, demonstrating their suitability for broader construction applications. Finally, this study underscores the promise of areca fiber as a valuable reinforcement material in CSEBs stabilized with cement. This innovative approach offers a sustainable and eco-friendly building material option, aligning with the growing emphasis on environmentally conscious construction practices.

Willingness to adopt precision agriculture: An analysis of Gombe and Bauchi States of Nigeria

Adoption of Precision Agriculture (PA) technologies has apparent benefits for agricultural production management, cost savings, and environmental sustainability. However, these technologies are also extremely complicated and influenced by various social and economic forces, which impact their adoption rate, particularly in developing nations. Demographic and agricultural characteristics also play an important role in determining willingness to adopt PA. This study is a survey aimed at establishing the willingness indices of farmers and other relevant personnel to embrace precision farming technologies in Gombe and Bauchi states of Nigeria. The survey included individuals of varied ages; but an average age of 28.5 years for Gombe and 36.5 years for Bauchi, educational levels, and employment statuses, as well as agricultural and operational features. The willingness to adopt PA is high in both states, with 92% in Gombe and 96% in Bauchi. The findings suggest that, while high costs and a lack of technical know-how had a negative impact on readiness to adopt PA in both states, the level of complexity was rated higher by the older generation in Bauchi state, which had a comparatively high mean farmer age. The size of the farm and the number of employees had no direct influence on the adoption of PA technology. Other criteria, such as age and number of years of operation, indicate overlap between the various stages of internet and digital technology adoption, mechanization, and PA. The high willingness rating indicates that farmers are willing to adopt PA technologies if made accessible. It is therefore advised that legislative tools, training programs, and necessary access to financing facilities be employed to make these technologies available and cheap for farmers.

‘Dependent on the relationship you maintain’: an exploration into the intermediaries within homestay social networks in Bhutan

ABSTRACT Community-based ecotourism is considered a sustainable and holistic approach to local development which brings together environmental sustainability and socio-cultural benefits to local people. As an ecotourism activity, homestays contribute to the local community economically, ecologically, culturally, and socially. These benefits have instigated the proliferation of the homestay model in developing countries. However, the success of homestay operations depends on their sustained ability to attract guests, which are impacted by the social networks of the homestay operator. Accordingly, this study examines the role social networks play in homestay operations, through a qualitative approach, drawing on 46 interviews. Specifically, focusing on Bhutan, this study identifies actors that play a role in attracting guests. The findings suggest that actors can have a direct or indirect impact on the ability to attract guests. Those exerting a direct impact are usually in a position to influence the guest’s decision, while actors who have an indirect impact contribute to the experience guests have and, therefore, their satisfaction. These actors also have influence over capacity-building activities and policy which in turn influences homestay operations and, ultimately the sustainability of the ecotourism enterprise.

Effect of thermal-mechanical conditions on strength of silanized Al alloy/CFRTP hybrid joint made by thinning-controlled hot pressing

The strength of thermal-assisted joined metal and carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastics (CFRTP) is dependent on physical and chemical interactions at the joining interface, which are strongly influenced by heat and pressure. Currently, there is a lack in deep research on effect mechanism of changeable pressure on the joining quality, limiting the joining condition optimization of the thermal-assisted joining process. In this study, an improved hot-pressing joining process with added thinning displacement control was adopted to study the effect of the joining pressure on the structure and strength of the interface between a silane-treated Al alloy and three CF-Polyamide-6 (CF/PA6). A high-strength, thinning-controlled lapped joint of Al and CF/PA6 could be realized by the proposed process, regardless of the fiber volume fractions in CF/PA6. At temperatures above the melting point of PA6, higher pressure typically resulted in higher interface strength. However, as the temperature approached the decomposition temperature, the joints under higher pressure tended to exhibit lower strength. The underlying mechanism of the interface strength variation with pressure was investigated by analyzing the effects of the joining conditions on the chemical reaction conditions, the resolidified-resin structure near the interlayer, and the existence of defects. These findings lay the foundational groundwork for future endeavors in metal/composite joining, offering potential benefits for industrial applications and environmental sustainability in the automotive sector.

Strategi Sustainability Strategy and The Role of Public Relations in the Promotion of Environmental Tourism Banten

Sustainable tourism development encompasses aspects of nature, culture, heritage, and economics, presenting a complex challenge involving tourists and local communities as hosts. This responsibility for preserving the environment falls on stakeholders, especially those in tourism planning and development. Environmental sustainability benefits local communities and enhances tourist experiences by maintaining natural beauty and culture, increasing income opportunities, and improving quality of life. Effective tourism management is crucial for attracting and retaining tourists. The study examines why certain attractions gain media attention, collaborating with public relations firms to disseminate reliable information. Public relations is vital in connecting producers with consumers and shaping public opinion. The study aims to explore public relations strategies in tourism promotion, special events, product development, and collaboration with the public, providing insights into their efficacy. Qualitative methods are employed to understand the cases comprehensively. The role of public relations in achieving institutional goals is crucial, using strategies like social, persuasive, and educational approaches. Public relations combines marketing mix with public relations to stimulate customer sales, which is essential in promoting tourism objects with excellent service and optimal management. Various media, including mass media and organisational publications, are utilised to disseminate tourism information effectively. The "Three Ways Strategy" includes pull, push, and pass strategies to influence public opinion and attract tourists. The study concludes by emphasising the importance of media usage and public relations strategies in tourism promotion, highlighting the need for cooperation with the public to achieve tourism objectives.

Renewable Energy Sourcing to Enhance Sustainable Manufacturing by Using Madhab’s EEE Impact Analysis Model

The world's increasing energy demand, coupled with the depletion of finite energy resources, necessitates a shift towards sustainable energy solutions. This research explores the multifaceted benefits of substituting conventional fossil fuel-based energy sources with renewable energy in industrial settings, with a focus on sustainable manufacturing. A case study was conducted at a printing and packaging factory in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, to analyze economic, environmental, health, safety, and efficiency factors associated with various energy options based on the Madhab’s EEE (Environmental, Efficiency, Economic) impact analysis method. The study identified solar power generation as the optimal energy source, boasting the lowest EEE impact index of 1.90. Wind energy ranked second, followed by conventional GRID power and DG (Diesel Generator) power sources, which were found to be less favorable due to their higher EEE impact indices. Feasibility assessments revealed that the factory had ample rooftop and vacant land space for solar power plant installation, making it self-sufficient in power generation. The return on investment (ROI) for the solar power project was calculated to be 5.54 years, making it a viable option from a sustainability perspective. Moreover, the solar system could be integrated with the GRID through a reverse metering system, enabling excess energy to be sold back to the GRID. This research underscores the significance of transitioning to renewable energy sources in industries for environmental sustainability, energy security, and economic benefits. It emphasizes the need for similar studies in diverse industrial settings to identify the most suitable energy sources, considering all relevant factors.

Utilisation of silica-rich waste in eco phosphogypsum-based cementitious materials: Strength, microstructure, thermodynamics and CO2 sequestration

Phosphogypsum-based cementitious materials (PGCM) are commonly selected as substitutes to ordinary Portland cement (OPC), however, drawbacks, such as a restricted capacity for CO2 sequestration and reduced mechanical properties upon carbonation, limit the potential applications of PGCM. This study investigates the carbonation process mechanism of PGCM and explores to modify the hydration product classes of PGCM by using two silica-rich solid wastes, which are waste glass powder (WGP) and silica fume (SF). This innovative approach resulted in an improved carbon capture capacity and enhanced mechanical properties of PGCM. The addition of SF and WGP increased the compression strength of PGCM by 15.5% and 19.0%, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were utilized to investigate the hydration mechanism of PGCM supplemented with SF and WGP, in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of their properties. The addition of SF and WGP to PGCM resulted in a 9.9% and 21.6% increase in thermal conductivity, respectively. Furthermore, the addition of SF and WGP facilitated higher CO2 sequestration rates for PGCM (49.76% and 44.05%, respectively), while after carbonation, the strength loss rates were reduced to 16.8% and 13.35%, respectively. Finally, a simple sustainability analysis showed that the utilisation of silica-rich waste in PGCM has environmental sustainability benefits.

Repositioning fertilizer manufacturing subsidies for improving food security and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in China

China removed fertilizer manufacturing subsidies from 2015 to 2018 to bolster market-oriented reforms and foster environmentally sustainable practices. However, the impact of this policy reform on food security and the environment remains inadequately evaluated. Moreover, although green and low-carbon technologies offer environmental advantages, their widespread adoption is hindered by prohibitively high costs. This study analyzes the impact of removing fertilizer manufacturing subsidies and explores the potential feasibility of redirecting fertilizer manufacturing subsidies to invest in the diffusion of these technologies. Utilizing the China Agricultural University Agri-food Systems model, we analyzed the potential for achieving mutually beneficial outcomes regarding food security and environmental sustainability. The findings indicate that removing fertilizer manufacturing subsidies has reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agricultural activities by 3.88 million metric tons, with minimal impact on food production. Redirecting fertilizer manufacturing subsidies to invest in green and low-carbon technologies, including slow and controlled-release fertilizer, organic–inorganic compound fertilizers, and machine deep placement of fertilizer, emerges as a strategy to concurrently curtail GHG emissions, ensure food security, and secure robust economic returns. Finally, we propose a comprehensive set of government interventions, including subsidies, field guidance, and improved extension systems, to promote the widespread adoption of these technologies.

3D printing of titanium dioxide and polyaniline-based photocatalytic composites

Photocatalysis has emerged as a promising method for wastewater treatment, organic removal, and hydrogen gas production. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a popular photocatalyst due to its ability to absorb ultraviolet light, its electronic structure, and its optical and chemical stability. The photocatalytic capacity of TiO2 is influenced by its crystal structure (anatase, rutile, and brookite), particle size, and surface area, which can be optimized. Moreover, TiO2 can be coated onto substrates such as ceramics or polymers. This research aims to investigate the application of 3D printing techniques to fabricate composites between TiO2 and polyaniline (PANI) under controlled processing conditions. The 3D photocatalyst was characterized using XRD, SEM, XAS, FTIR, and UV-VIS techniques. The results of this research could pave the way for more efficient and effective photocatalysts fabricated by 3D printing technique, with potential benefits for environmental sustainability and energy production.

Suitability of Vetiver straw fibers in improving the engineering characteristics of compressed earth blocks

Although conventional earth construction has been replaced by modern materials in industrialized nations over the last century, interest in earthen materials has surged in industrialized countries due to their economic, social, and environmental sustainability benefits. Compressed earth blocks (CEBs) have gained popularity for their energy efficiency and lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to fired clay bricks or cement concrete (CC) blocks. This research explores the potential of Chrysopogon zizanioides, commonly known as Vetiver, a perennial grass found in tropical and subtropical regions, to enhance the engineering properties of CEBs. While the use of Vetiver roots for soil erosion prevention and slope stabilization is well documented, the impact of Vetiver straw fibers on CEBs has not been sufficiently researched. Here, CEBs were manufactured with varying Vetiver straw fiber contents (0%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, and 3% by dry soil mass). The physical properties of the Vetiver straw fiber-reinforced CEBs revealed a reduction in bulk density and volumetric shrinkage. As for the strength-ductility behavior, the Vetiver straw fibers noticeably increased the ductility of the CEBs. However, the rise in strength was not significant, and it showed little change over time. Durability characteristics were assessed through capillary water absorption and wear resistance tests, indicating reduced water absorption and enhanced wear resistance in CEBs with Vetiver straw fibers. Microstructural analysis through scanning electron microscopy reveals a more uniform and isotropic soil matrix with fewer voids, indicating stronger bonding between the fibers and the soil. Overall, Vetiver straw fiber has demonstrated its potential as a valuable reinforcement material for CEBs, making them more sustainable and resilient.

Consumer Perception and Sensory Drivers of Liking of Fortified Oat Milks.

Oat milk was fortified with β-glucan at a level that attains health benefits and protein at a level equivalent to that of cow's milk. This study aimed to identify consumer perceptions and evaluate the sensory attributes of fortified plain and chocolate oat milks. Oat milk consumers (n = 106) evaluated four samples: C (Control), 0Pro (6.25 g/L β-glucan), LPro (6.25 g/L β-glucan and 15.23 g/L oat protein), and HPro (6.25 g/L β-glucan and 30.45 g/L oat protein); and they completed free-word association (FWA), liking ratings, just-about-right (JAR), check-all-that-apply (CATA), and conjoint analysis (CA). Oat milk was associated with sensory descriptors, environmental sustainability, and health benefits. C and 0Pro products were liked significantly more than LPro and HPro. C and 0Pro oat flavors and thicknesses were rated "just about right" by majority of the participants, while LPro and HPro were rated "too much". Positive CATA attributes were "smooth", "fresh", and "oat-like" while negative attributes were "rancid", "sandy", and "grainy". The CA results showed consumer interest in oat milk fortified with oat protein, containing β-glucan at a level recommended for health benefits, and with protein levels higher than cow's milk. Based on the results, β-glucan-fortified oat milk is acceptable while oat protein fortification requires reformulation or substitution with another source.

A guide to assess the use of gene editing in aquaculture

AbstractAquaculture creates ‘aquatic foods’ such as fish, shellfish, and seaweeds that are critical for food security. Gene editing using CRISPR‐Cas9 has the potential to transform aquaculture by improving animal welfare, nutritional attributes, and farming efficiency, with benefits for environmental sustainability. However, gene editing also poses risks of harm via side effects on other important traits or genetic introgression into wild populations. Public acceptance of gene edited aquatic species will rapidly erode if risk mitigation is ineffective or not applied. Here, we review the benefits and risks for gene editing in aquaculture. A general framework for risk–benefit analysis of gene editing in aquaculture is proposed, incorporating nine key considerations: genetic impacts, ecological impacts, disease risk mitigation, nature of edit, supply chain environmental footprint, animal welfare, human nutrition, ethical business implications and impacts on local communities. When applied on a case‐by‐case basis, the framework will help identify how gene editing of a farmed species can most enhance production and nutritional benefits while minimising harms to animal welfare, the environment, and society.

The relative benefits for environmental sustainability of vegan diets for dogs, cats and people.

Environmental impacts of the livestock sector are proportional to consumption levels. To assess the relative consumption of livestock animals within the diets of dogs, cats and people, this study examined their dietary energy needs within the US in 2020, and globally in 2018. Also studied were US pet food ingredients, and environmental sustainability indicators for plant- and animal-based foods consumed globally. Relative consumptions of average livestock animals were: US: dogs- 17.7%, cats- 2.3%, humans- 80.0%; and globally: dogs- 7.7%, cats- 1.2%, humans- 91.1%. Full transition to nutritionally-sound vegan diets would spare from slaughter the following numbers of terrestrial livestock animals annually (billions): US: dogs- 1.7, cats- 0.2, humans- 7.8, and globally: dogs- 6.0, cats- 0.9, humans- 71.3, as well as billions of aquatic animals in all dietary groups. Very large impact reductions were also associated with land and water use, emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs), acidifying and eutrophifying gases, and biocide use, in all dietary groups. If implemented globally, nutritionally-sound vegan diets would free up land larger than the following nations: dogs-Saudi Arabia or Mexico, cats-Japan or Germany, humans-Russia-the world's largest country-combined with India. Such diets would save freshwater volumes greater than all renewable freshwater in the following nations: dogs-Denmark, cats-Jordan, humans-Cuba. Such diets would reduce GHGs by amounts greater than all GHG emissions from following nations: dogs-South Africa or the UK, cats-Israel or New Zealand, humans-India or the entire EU. The numbers of additional people who could be fed using food energy savings associated with vegan diets exceeded the 2018 human populations of the following nations: dogs-the entire European Union, cats-France or the UK, humans-every single nation or collective region on Earth, as defined by the World Bank. All of these estimates are conservative.

Ethiopia’s Path to Net Zero and Climate-Resilient Development: Policies, Costs, and Co-benefits

The paper specifically explores the corollary benefits for economic development and environmental sustainability of a low-carbon, climate-resilient, green pathway for Ethiopia—a pathway that is consistent with attaining the country’s medium- and long-term development goals. The analysis compares a net zero emissions (NZE) pathway with a business-as-usual (BAU) scenario. The BAU scenario embeds optimistic (high) economic growth assumptions from Ethiopia’s 10-Year Development Plan, and it incorporates the gradual and early incremental adoption of several climate initiatives proposed in the Climate Resilience and Green Economy Strategy. The NZE scenario builds on the implementation of Ethiopia’s nationally determined contribution (NDC) by 2030. The NZE scenario also incorporates additional climate policy options (adaptation and mitigation), resulting in net zero emissions by 2050.

Dairy cow longevity and farm economic performance: Evidence from Swedish dairy farms

The longevity of dairy cows is mainly determined by farmers' subjective culling decisions and can be linked to the environmental impact of dairy production and to the social acceptance of the industry. Still, the economic impacts of dairy cow longevity are not well understood. The aim of this study was therefore to examine how herd average dairy cow longevity is related to the farm economic outcome. We used 3 indicators of economic outcome: technical efficiency, profitability and average milk yield per cow. We used 2 indicators of dairy cow longevity: average herd length of life and average herd length of productive life. The study was based on a unique and detailed data set from Swedish dairy agriculture, where herd management data from the national dairy herd recording scheme were combined with farm level economic variables, the Swedish farm accountancy survey, for a total of 1,959 observations over the time period 2010 - 2018. The regression results highlight that both measures of average herd dairy cow longevity have an overall positive and statistically significant association with farm level economic performance. These associations had an inverted U-shape which implies that the association is first positive and then declines. Descriptive statistics indicate that the point where the maximum economic performance is attained varied across the economic indicators. Our results are relevant for individual dairy farmers and their advisors who are interested in understanding how herd average longevity relates to economic performance on the farms. Our results are also important from a greater sustainability perspective: linking them to previous knowledge about the positive environmental and social sustainability benefits from keeping cows longer, highlights there may be dairy cow longevity-associated tradeoffs between those benefits and the farm economic outcomes.

Study on the Effects of Exhaust Gas Recirculation and Fuel Injection Strategy on Transient Process Performance of Diesel Engines

To meet increasingly stringent emission regulations, this study investigates the transient process of a heavy-duty diesel engine equipped with a two-stage turbocharger. The study focuses on analyzing the impact of the EGR system and fuel injection strategy during a transient process of a load increase (20% to 100% in 1 s) at a constant speed (1300 rpm). The research results showed that delaying the opening time of the high-pressure EGR valve from 0.1 s to 0.5 s reduces peak carbon soot emissions by 51.3%, with only a 3.13% increase in NOx emissions. By extending the high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation mixing length, the issue of an excessively high fuel–oxygen equivalence ratio caused by uneven exhaust gas mixing in individual cylinders can be avoided, resulting in a maximum reduction of 47.0% in peak soot emissions. Building on exhaust gas recirculation optimization, further modifications to the main and post-injection strategies led to a 28.1% reduction in soot emissions, a 4.73% decrease in peak NOx emissions, and a minor increase of 1.87% in the indicated fuel specific consumption compared to the single-injection strategy. The significant reduction in soot emissions will provide benefits for public health and environmental sustainability.

Research and evaluation of spatiotemporal dynamic of network green innovation efficiency in China—based on meta-Frontier theory

Green innovation has emerged as a crucial driver for advancing green and high-quality development. Exploring the evolutionary patterns of green innovation efficiency is crucial for achieving the “dual carbon” goals and realizing the benefits of both economic growth and environmental sustainability under the framework of new development concepts. This study employs the network SBM-DEA model under meta-Frontier and group-Frontier. Additionally, it considers the GML index and Moran’s I to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the evolving efficiency of green innovation in Chinese provinces from 2008 to 2020, then uses the Tobit regression model to verify the influencing indicators for green innovation efficiency. The examination covers various aspects, including the stage of green innovation, the diversity of technology accumulation, the comparability of pre- and post-development, the spillover effects in geographical space, and the diversity of influencing factors. The research findings indicate the following: 1) The group division exhibit a high level of geographical correlation, and the efficiency of green innovation in the two-stage and network displays heterogeneity across distinct frontiers. The efficiency loss in the Green Achievement Transformation stage is bigger than that in the Green Technology Research and Development stage. 2) There is an overall increase in green innovation efficiency of each type during most years, and the spatial correlation and stability of the two-stage and network green innovation efficiency have improved year by year. Provinces with higher Green Innovation Environment Composite Index have the highest concentration of “high-high” efficiency agglomeration. 3) Environmental regulation intensity, factor endowment, property rights structure, foreign direct investment and energy consumption have varying degrees of constraints on green innovation, and the regional economic development level can significantly improve the efficiency of various green innovations. Finally, this paper provides some suggestions, including stimulating innovation vitality, formulating differentiated policies, strengthening regional innovation collaboration, and mobilizing resources from various stakeholders. These recommendations aim to provide guidance and reference for promoting green innovation and achieving sustainable development in different regions.