Decrease Greenhouse Gas Emissions Research Articles

Healthcare Sustainability to Address Climate Change: Call for Action to the Infectious Diseases Community.

The U.S. healthcare system's contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change is disproportionately high and harms the public. Several medical specialties are now reassessing how they can mitigate healthcare's harmful environmental impact. Healthcare sustainability is broadly defined as measures to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, waste, and other pollutants generated during the healthcare delivery process. Prior efforts and programs by infectious diseases (ID) professionals, such as antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention and control can form a framework for ID professionals to help apply this expertise to healthcare environmental sustainability more broadly. This call to action proposes strategies for ID societies and professionals to incorporate climate change education for trainees, increase research and funding opportunities in healthcare sustainability, and calls for action by ID societies to champion system changes to decrease greenhouse gas emissions.

The greenhouse gas reduction effect of critical peak pricing for industrial electricity: Evidence from 285 Chinese cities, 2003–2019

This paper assesses the impact of the Pilot of Critical Peak Pricing for Industrial Electricity (PCPPIE) on industrial Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions by employing the Difference-in-Differences (DID) methodology. It is found that the cities participating in PCPPIE underwent a significant 11.3% reduction in the GHGs emitted per industrial enterprise. These findings remain robust across various methodologies, including staggered DID estimators, propensity score matching, instrumental variable methods, and spatial econometric regression. The generalized DID analysis shows that a higher critical peak price corresponds to a more substantial decrease in GHG emissions. PCPPIE achieves weaker GHG reduction in higher-administrative level cities but stronger in those with higher industrial share, and the effectiveness of PCPPIE is compromised by cross-regional electricity imports. PCPPIE reduces GHG emission intensity of the power industry and contributes to additional reductions in GHG emissions from other sources by fostering green technological innovation and facilitating energy substitution. The practical significance of this paper is to reveal a richer dynamic mechanism for China's green and sustainable development, indicating that critical peak pricing is a power pricing strategy worthy of strengthening and optimization in the process of China's carbon peak and carbon neutrality.

Effect of post-weld heat treatment on mechanical and microstructural properties of high strength steel weld metal

The usage of high strength steel (HSS) is steadily increasing, primarily driven by the pursuit of weight reduction, leading to a subsequent decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. This paper investigates the impact of various post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) temperatures of 525 °C, 550 °C and 575 °C with a holding time of 2 h on both the microstructure and mechanical properties of weld metal produced using a HSS metal cored wire. The investigation reveals that PWHT does not significantly alter strength but has a more pronounced influence on toughness. The as-welded condition exhibited the highest toughness. Among the samples subjected to the PWHT, the one treated at 575 °C showed the highest impact energy, reaching 69 J at −60 °C. This outcome is attributed to the increased presence of acicular ferrite in the microstructure, surpassing that of samples subjected to PWHT at different temperatures.

Regulation of photoassimilate transportation and nitrogen uptake to decrease greenhouse gas emissions in ratooning rice with higher economic return by optimized nitrogen supplies

Mechanized harvesting of the main crop rice, with low stubble height in rice ratooning is scaling up, especially in Southeast China with a higher population density and less cultivated land. Currently, the common nitrogen fertilization for ratoon rice is concentrated within 20 days before and after the harvest of the main crop. However, this fertilization pattern may not be suitable for low stubble regenerative rice due to its extended growth period, leading to diminished nitrogen utilization efficiency and heightened greenhouse gas emissions, particularly nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions. It is imperative to explore a nitrogen fertilizer management model for clean production of low stubble ratoon rice (RR). In this study, we examined the effects of nitrogen fertilizer application rates and methods (single or split application) on yield and greenhouse gas emissions during the regrowth season. We employed a multi-criteria assessment approach combined with field measurements, energy analysis, environmental assessment, and economic evaluation on ratoon rice under various nitrogen fertilizer treatments. The results showed that the ratoon rice produced the highest total energy output under 67.5 N+22.5 N (Fertilize with 67.5 kg nitrogen ha−1 and 22.5 kg nitrogen ha−1 3 days after main season rice harvesting and during the heading stage of ratoon rice) treatment compared to the 90 N+0 N (conventional fertilization, apply 90 kg nitrogen ha−1 fertilizer 3 days after harvesting at once) treatment. It was also found that reducing nitrogen application during the tillering stage reduced CH4 emissions, fertilization during the heading stage of the ratoon rice did not increase CH4 emissions, Since fertilization during the heading stage of ratoon rice did not lead to an increase in the partitioning of photoassimilates (photosynthetic product assimilates) to the rhizosphere soil, significant differences in sugar and acetic acid levels were not observed in the rhizosphere soil. As a result, no change was found in the expression of the methanogenic mcrA gene in the microbial community. The study also demonstrated that the 67.5 N+22.5 N treatment was able to promote the absorption of nitrogen nutrients, reduction in N2O emissions by 16.61%, subsequently increasing resource use efficiency, final yield and net ecosystem economic benefit by 5.96%, 7.19% and 5.57%, respectively, thereby decreasing carbon and nitrogen footprints by 6.64% and 3.50% compared with the 90 N+0 N treatment in the ratoon rice. These results suggest that a reasonable ratoon rice cultivation scheme is a promising farming system that can simultaneously improve resource use efficiency and economic profits, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and environmental footprint, while still maintaining the high productivity in ratoon rice.

Integration of anaerobic co-digestion of grass silage and cattle slurry within a livestock farming system in Ireland: Quantification of greenhouse gas emission reduction and nutrient flow

Pasture-based beef systems can provide cattle slurry and grass silage for anaerobic digestion (AD). However, sustainable production of these feedstocks within a livestock farm presents challenges. This study examined the farmland area required to provide slurry and grass silage for a 40 GWh biomethane plant, quantified greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction and analyzed digestate management. Results indicated that 130 farms of 50 ha and a livestock unit (LU) of 2.1 LU/ha were required to meet the feedstock requirements of the AD plant. Assigning 15 % of the farmland to produce grass silage for AD decreased GHG emissions by 24 % compared to conventional beef farming. Depending on soil nutrient status, returning digestate to the farmland reduced the application of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers by up to 65 %, 33 % and 56 %, respectively. Future research should analyze the economic implication of biomethane production from these feedstocks at farm and supply chain scales.

Impact of environmental policy stringency on sectoral GHG emissions: evidence from Finland and Sweden by nonlinear quantile-based methods

ABSTRACT The growing societal concern regarding environmental matters has led to the implementation of many environmental measures intended to protect the environment and address global warming by lessening emissions and mitigating climate change. In line with this movement, this study scrutinizes the impact of these environmental measures on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to analyze the cases of Finland and Sweden. More specifically, the study employs the Environmental Policy Stringency (EPS) index as a proxy for environmental measures, explores sector-specific GHG emissions by employing nonlinear quantile-based methodologies (including quantile-on-quantile regression and Granger causality-in-quantiles methods as the primary model and quantile regression for robustness checking) spanning the period from 1991/Q1 to 2020/Q4. The findings show that: (i) EPS lessens GHG emissions from fuel exploitation, industrial combustion, and the power industry sector at lower and middle quantiles in Finland and Sweden; (ii) EPS decreases GHG emissions from processes, transportation, and waste sectors in Finland but increases them in Sweden at higher quantiles; (iii) EPS leads to an increase in GHG emissions from the agriculture and construction sectors at higher quantiles; (iv) EPS has a causal effect on sector-specific GHG emissions across different quantiles; (v) the robustness of the findings is largely confirmed. Hence, the study underscores the varying impacts of EPS on sectoral GHG emissions based on quantiles, sectors, and countries, emphasizing the need for policymakers to adopt environmental policies to comprise these differences and adjust the policy framework accordingly.

Case Studies on Sustainability-Oriented Innovations and Smart Farming Technologies in the Wine Industry: A Comparative Analysis of Pilots in Cyprus and Italy

Addressing the urgent sustainability challenges in the wine industry, this study explores the efficacy of sustainability-oriented innovations (SOIs) and smart farming technologies (SFTs) across wine value chains in Cyprus and Italy. Utilising a mixed-methods approach that includes quantitative analysis through Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and qualitative assessments to understand stakeholders’ perspectives, this research delves into the environmental, economic, and social impacts of these technologies. In Cyprus, the integration of digital labelling and smart farming solutions led to a substantial reduction in pesticide usage by up to 75% and enhanced the perceived quality of wine by an average of 8%. A pilot study in Italy witnessed a 33.4% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions, with the additional benefit of a 5.3% improvement in intrinsic product quality. The pilot introduced a carbon credit system, potentially generating an average annual revenue of EUR 4140 per farm. These findings highlight the transformative potential of SOIs and SFTs in promoting sustainable practices within the wine industry, demonstrating significant advancements in reducing environmental impact, improving product quality, and enhancing economic viability. This study underscores the critical role of innovative technologies in achieving sustainability goals and provides a compelling case for their wider adoption within the agricultural sector.

Enhancing Indoor Well-being: A Multifunctional Approach to Indoor Living with Plants and Pegboards

In recent times, there has been a noticeable trend towards increased indoor living, driven by the allure of convenience. However, this trend has raised concerns about heightened exposure to indoor pollutants, which significantly impact air quality and contribute to stress. Indoor plants are renowned for their air-purifying and stress-reducing qualities, serving as natural solutions to enhance indoor air quality. Nevertheless, many people struggle to care for them due to time constraints or a lack of expertise. This research endeavors to bridge the gap between the benefits of indoor plants and the hurdles of their maintenance. Furthermore, it acknowledges the significance of decluttering indoor spaces to alleviate stress, with pegboards emerging as a popular organizational choice. The primary objective of this study is to introduce an innovative solution: a modular, magnetic pegboard system featuring purpose-built modules. This multifunctional pegboard system serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it streamlines organization, effectively reducing the stress induced by desk clutter. Secondly, it fosters an environment conducive to indoor plant care, making it accessible to all, including those with limited horticultural knowledge.Additionally, strategically placed indoor plants can offer natural shade and insulation, potentially reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling in indoor spaces. This, in turn, can lead to lower energy consumption and decreased greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with sustainable material use. Pegboards constructed from sustainable materials, such as wood, can indeed be eco-friendly choices that contribute to the overall reduction of the environmental footprint in living spaces.The primary focus of this study centers on the design, development, and implementation of this user-friendly pegboard system, underscored by its adaptability and positive impact on indoor well-being, air quality, and sustainability. By means of this innovation, the research aspires to elevate indoor spaces, fostering healthier and more harmonious living and working environments, well-being, and air quality.

Seasonality, rather than estuarine gradient or particle suspension/sinking dynamics, determines estuarine carbon distributions

Estuaries are important components of the global carbon cycle; exchanging carbon between aquatic, atmospheric, and terrestrial environments, representing important loci for blue carbon storage and greenhouse gas emissions. However, how estuarine gradients affect sinking/suspended particles, and dissolved organic matter dynamic interactions remains unexplored. We fractionated suspended/sinking particles to assess and characterise carbon fate differences. We investigated bacterial colonisation (SYBR Green I) and exopolymer concentrations (TEP/CSP) with microscopy staining techniques. C/H/N and dry weight analysis identified particle composition differences. Meanwhile, nutrient and carbon analysis, and excitation and emission matrix evaluations with a subsequent parallel factor (PARAFAC) analysis characterised dissolved organic matter.The lack of clear salinity driven patterns in our study are presumably due to strong mixing forces and high particle heterogeneity along the estuary, with only density differences between suspended and sinking particles. Elbe estuary particles' organic portion is made up of marine-like (sinking) and terrestrial-like (suspended) signatures. Salinity did not have a significant role in microbial degradation and carbon composition, although brackish estuary portions were more biologically active. Indicative of increased degradation rates, leading to decreased greenhouse gas emissions, which are especially relevant for estuaries, with their disproportionate greenhouse gas emissions. Bacterial colonisation decreased seawards, indicative of decreased degradation, and shifts in microbial community composition and functions.Our findings span diverse strands of research, concerning steady carbon contributions from both marine and terrestrial sources, carbon aromaticity, humification index, and bioavailability. Their integration highlights the importance of the Elbe estuary as a model system, providing robust information for future policy decisions affecting dissolved and particulate matter dynamics within the Elbe Estuary.

Comparative Analysis of Sustainable Electrification in Mediterranean Public Transportation

The Mediterranean region is a hot spot for climate change, with transportation accounting for a quarter of global CO2 emissions. To meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a sustainable urban transport network is needed to cut carbon emissions and improve air quality. This study aims to investigate the electrification of public transport in both developed and underdeveloped countries by examining the existing public transport network of two modes of transportation (buses and trams) across the Mediterranean region. This study suggests that the electrification of public transportation could result in a significant additional demand for more than 200 GWh of electricity, depending on the size and congestion of the city. It also studies the potential reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through the electrification of buses. Results show that electrification significantly impacts decreasing GHG emissions, helping achieve SDG 13. Furthermore, a financial analysis was conducted to determine the feasibility of using different bus fuel technologies. Regarding economic benefits, electric buses are not consistently optimal solutions, and diesel buses can be advantageous. Our finding shows that, at a 5% discount rate, the diesel bus is most favorable for Marseille, and, as discount rates increase, the advantage of electric buses diminishes. However, the high purchase price of electric buses compared to diesel buses is currently a major obstacle in achieving SDG 11, particularly for developing countries.

Synergistic integration of MSF and RO technologies in PTC using hybrid technique

ABSTRACT This paper proposes the Hybrid desalination and power generation through parabolic trough collectors. This study aims to examine the feasibility, performance optimization, and economic viability of power-generation plant and hybrid-desalination using multi-stage flash (MSF) and reverse osmosis (RO) technologies assessed by using the parabolic trough collectors (PTC). The objective is to discover the posibilities of this innovative approach in addressing water scarcity and clean energy demands. The studies usually focus on several key aspects. Firstly, it resolves the technical feasibility of integrating MSF and RO technologies with parabolic-trough-collectors to optimize energy efficiency and freshwater production. This involves evaluating the system design, heat transfer mechanisms, and operational parameters.Secondly, performance optimization is a key area of investigation. By optimizing these parameters the aim is to maximize freshwater production while minimizing energy consumption. Thirdly, the economic viability of the hybrid plant will be assessed. This involves considering capital investment, conducting a comprehensive cost analysis, maintenance costs, and operational expenses. The study also evaluates the potential for revenue generation through the sale of excess electricity produced by the system. The potential outcomes of this research include demonstrating the technical-feasibility as well as economic-viability of the hybrid desalination and power generation plant. The findings may indicate that this approach can effectively address water scarcity challenges while contributing to clean energy production. The study may also highlight the environmental benefits of integrating renewable energy sources (RESs) and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional desalination methods.The proposed method is executed in MATLAB platform and compared to various existing approaches.

A potential of iron slag-based soil amendment as a suppressor of greenhouse gas (CH4 and N2O) emissions in rice paddy

Iron slag-based silicate fertilizer (SF) has been utilized as a soil amendment in rice paddy fields for over 50 years. SF, which contains electron acceptors such as oxidized iron (Fe3+) compounds, is known to reduce methane (CH4) emissions, which have a global warming potential (GWP) of 23, higher than that of carbon dioxide (CO2). However, the dynamics of nitrous oxide (N2O), which has a GWP of 265, were questionable. Since the reduced Fe (Fe2+) can react as an electron donor, SF application might suppress N2O emissions by progressing N2O into nitrogen gas (N2) during the denitrification process. To verify the influence of SF application on two major greenhouse gas (GHG) dynamics during rice cultivation, three different kinds of SF were prepared by mixing iron rust (>99%, Fe2O3) as an electron acceptor with different ratios (0, 2.5, and 5%) and applied at the recommended level (1.5 Mg ha−1) for rice cultivation. SF application was effective in decreasing CH4 emissions in the earlier rice cropping season, and seasonal CH4 flux was more highly decreased with increasing the mixing ratio of iron rust from an average of 19% to 38%. Different from CH4 emissions, approximately 70% of seasonal N2O flux was released after drainage for rice harvesting. However, SF incorporation was very effective in decreasing N2O emissions by approximately 40% over the control. Reduced Fe2+ can be simultaneously oxidized into Fe3+ by releasing free electrons. The increased electron availability might develop more denitrification processes into N2 gas rather than NO and N2O and then decrease N2O emissions in the late rice cultivation season. We could find evidence of a more suppressed N2O flux by applying the electron acceptor-added SFs (SF2.5 and SF5.0) to a 49%–56% decrease over the control. The SF application was effective in increasing rice productivity, which showed a negative-quadratic response to the available silicate (SiO2) concentration in the soil at the harvesting stage. Grain yield was maximized at approximately 183 mg kg−1 of the available SiO2 concentration in the Korean rice paddy, with a 16% increase over no-SF application. Consequently, SF has an attractive potential as a soil amendment in rice paddy to decrease GHG emission impacts and increase rice productivity.

Emotions, worry, efficacy, and climate change–related sustainability behaviors among a representative sample of Texas and Florida residents

Uptake and support of sustainable technologies that decrease greenhouse gas emissions are critical to mitigating climate change. Engagement in individual (e.g., eating less meat, electric car use) and collective (e.g., petition signing, donating money to environmental causes) sustainability behaviors may correlate with psychological factors including emotions, worry about climate change and natural hazards, and response efficacy. However, little research has explored these relationships in representative samples at high risk for climate-related hazard exposures (e.g., hurricanes, heatwaves, flooding). We assessed climate change-related sustainability behaviors in an ongoing, probability-based representative survey of 1479 Texas and Florida residents repeatedly exposed to climate-related hazards including hurricanes, heatwaves, flooding, and tornadoes. Controlling for demographics, behavior-related positive and negative emotions correlated with engagement in performing a greater number of collective-level sustainability behaviors (positive emotions: IRR = 2.06, p < .001; negative emotions: IRR = 1.46, p = .030). However, negative emotions were mediated by natural hazard worry, which in turn was mediated by climate change worry. Positive emotions were mediated by response efficacy. Individual-level sustainability behaviors were associated with positive emotions (IRR = 1.18, p < .001), which were again mediated by response efficacy. In adjusted analyses unpacking the relationship between discrete emotions and sustainability behaviors, hope was associated with individual- and collective-level sustainability behaviors (all ps < .05). Results suggest general climate change worry may be adaptive and that feelings of hope, relative to other emotions (both positive and negative), may help encourage sustainability behaviors that address climate change. Scalable interventions should explore leveraging these psychological experiences to promote uptake of sustainable technology-related behaviors more broadly.

Greenhouse Gass Emission form Agriculture and their Effective Mitigation Techniques: A Review

Agriculture plays a dual role in the context of climate change, as it both contributes to and is impacted by climate change. Efforts have been made to decrease greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural practices, but it is crucial to ensure that these measures do not negatively affect farm production and profitability. The primary greenhouse gases (GHG), namely carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O), and methane (CH4), have had a harmful impact on climate change, resulting in various catastrophic consequences. This analysis focuses on the factors that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, including both inorganic factors such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers, as well as organic factors like animal manure, composted manure, bio-solids, and crop species. Developing additional successful methods involves integrating various mitigation techniques such as conservation tillage, water management, cropping systems, and nutrient management. The successful implementation of these techniques will pave the way for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural fields.

Optimized Fertilizer–Water Management Improves Carrot Quality and Soil Nutrition and Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions on the North China Plain

In order to improve carrot quality and soil nutrition and reduce the environmental pollution caused by intensive carrot production, more comprehensive combined water–fertilizer management strategies are necessary. This study hypothesizes that optimal management of water and fertilizer can improve carrot yield and quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and soil nutrient residues. Thus, coordinated water–fertilizer management strategies were tested for carrot production on the North China Plain over two consecutive growing seasons. Four treatments were tested: local standard fertilization and irrigation practices (FNP); optimized irrigation and chemical nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizer (OPT); OPT treatment with partial replacement of chemical fertilizer with peanut shell (PS); and OPT treatment with partial replacement of chemical fertilizer with mushroom residue (M). Compared to the FNP treatment, there were statistically significant increases in soluble sugars (12–27%) and free amino acids (14–26%), and decreases in the nitrate content (7–17%) of fleshy root in the OPT, PS, and M treatments. In autumn carrots, the OPT and M treatments decreased yield, whereas PS increased yield; spring carrot yield was significantly decreased in the OPT, PS, and M groups compared to the FNP group. There were no significant effects of the treatment group on carrot growth rates, nutrient accumulation, or nutrient distribution. However, the OPT, PS, and M treatments were associated with significantly increased partial productivity of phosphate fertilizer (233–363%), reduced residual levels of nitrate and available phosphorus in the top 80 cm of soil, and decreased greenhouse gas emissions by 8–18% compared to the FNP treatment. These results highlight the effectiveness of partial organic fertilizer substitution and integrated water–fertilizer management to produce high-quality carrots with minimal environmental damage.

Renewable Energy in the European Union: The State of the Art and Directions of Development

The transition of the energy system in the European Union (EU) from non-renewable to renewable energy aims to guarantee the energy supply, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce energy costs, and lead to industrial development, growth, and occupation. The revised renewable energy directive EU/2023/2413 raises the binding renewable target for the EU in 2030 to a minimum of 42.5%. This means almost doubling the existing share of energy from renewable sources in the EU. This study is concerned with presenting state-of-the-art regarding renewable energy sources in EU countries, predicting the share of renewable energy in 2030, and investigating the relationships between this share and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The results of the research indicate a significant relationship between increasing renewable energy sources and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions in the EU.

Environmental impact assessment of battery boxes based on lightweight material substitution

Power battery is one of the core components of electric vehicles (EVs) and a major contributor to the environmental impact of EVs, and reducing their environmental emissions can help enhance the sustainability of electric vehicles. Based on the principle of stiffness equivalence, the steel case of the power cell is replaced with lightweight materials, a life cycle model is established with the help of GaBi software, and its environmental impact is evaluated using the CML2001 method. The results can be summarized as follows: (1) Based on the four environmental impact categories of GWP, AP, ADP (f), and HTP, which are the global warming potential (GWP), acidification potential (AP), abiotic depletion potential (ADP (f)) and human toxicity potential (HTP), the environmental impact of lightweight materials is lower than that of the steel box. Among them, the aluminum alloy box has the largest reduction, and the Carbon Fiber Sheet Molding Compound (CF-SMC) box is the second. (2) In the sensitivity analysis of electric structure, an aluminum alloy box is still the most preferable choice for environmental impact. (3) In the sensitivity analysis of driving mileage, the aluminum alloy box body is also the best choice for vehicle life. (4) Quantitative assessment using substitution factors measures the decrease in greenhouse gas emissions following the substitution of steel battery box with lightweight materials. The adoption of aluminum alloy battery box can lead to a reduction of 1.55 tons of greenhouse gas emissions, with a substitution factor of 1.55 tC sb−1. In the case that composite materials have not been recycled commercially on a large scale, aluminum alloy is still one of the best materials for the integrated environmental impact of the whole life cycle of the battery boxes.

Evaluation of direct-fed microbials on in vitro ruminal fermentation, gas production kinetic, and greenhouse gas emissions in different ruminants’ diet

IntroductionThree in vitro experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of increasing levels of Enterococcus faecium and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (DFM1) and increasing levels of Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus subtilis (DFM2) on in vitro ruminal fermentation parameters in three different dietary scenarios.MethodsFor Exp. 1, the basal diet consisted of 25:75 roughage:concentrate ratio (R:C) and was composed by 5 treatments: control (no additive), 2 levels of DFM1 (1X = 1.9 mg and 5X = 9.0 mg), and 2 levels of DFM2 (1X = 3.8 mg and 5X = 19 mg). The Exp. 2 consisted of a 41:59 R:C diet and was composed by 5 treatments: control (no additive) and 2 levels of DFM1 (1X = 3.8 mg and 5 X = 19 mg) and 2 levels of DFM2 (1X = 5.6 mg and 5X = 28 mg). The Exp. 3 consisted of a 100:0 R:C diet [Brachiaria (syn. Urochloa brizantha)] and was composed by the same treatments described in Exp. 1. The DFM1 contained 3.5 × 109 CFU per g of Enterococccus faecium and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, whereas the DFM2 contained Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus subtilis at 3.2 × 109 CFU per g. In each Exp., an in vitro gas production (GP) system with 43-bottles (AnkomRF) was used in four consecutive 48 or 72-h fermentation batches to evaluate total GP (TGP), kinetics and fermentation profiles, methane (CH4), and carbon dioxide (CO2).ResultsFor Exp 1, DFM1 increased quadratically TGP at 24 and 48-h, which reflected in a greater in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD). The concentrations of ammonia-N, CH4, and CO2 (mmol/g of IVOMD) reduced quadratically as DFM1 increased. For Exp. 2, DFM1 inclusion reduced butyrate concentration and acetate to propionate ratio. Regarding GHG emissions, DFM1 and DFM2 quadratically reduced CH4 and CO2 emission per IVOMD (mmol/g of IVOMD). For Exp. 3, DFM1 increased quadratically TGP at 48h with no impact on IVOMD. Otherwise, DFM2 increased linearly TGP at 24 and 48h which reflected in a greater IVOMD. The inclusion of DFM1 increased linearly iso-valerate and branched-chain volatile fatty acids (BCVFA) concentration and DFM2 addition increased BCVFA quadratically.DiscussionOverall, addition of DFM1 [Enterococccus faecium (5 × 109 CFU per g) + Saccharomyces cerevisiae (5 × 109 CFU per g)] or DFM2 [Bacillus licheniformis + Bacillus subtilis (3.2 × 109 CFU per g)] might enhance the fermentation process in the rumen and decrease greenhouse gas emissions in a dose-dependent manner, though the results are contingent on the specific type of diet.

Powering Ahead: Current Landscape of Electric Vehicles (EV) in India

Electric vehicles have gained widespread acceptance globally, driven by increasing awareness of environmental issues and government initiatives promoting sustainable transportation. The market for electric vehicles has witnessed exponential growth, with major automotive manufacturers investing heavily in research and development to bring innovative and competitive electric models to the market. The core technology of electric vehicles revolves around electric powertrains, which replace traditional internal combustion engines with electric motors powered by rechargeable batteries. This shift not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also significantly decreases greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the mitigation of climate change. Recent advances in battery technology, particularly in energy density and cost reduction, play a pivotal role in enhancing the range and affordability of electric vehicles. The transition towards electric vehicles (EVs) has gained significant momentum in India, in recent years. This paper examines the current status of electric vehicles in the Indian market, including government initiatives, infrastructure development, challenges, and future prospects. The analysis highlights the key factors driving the adoption of EVs, the state of charging infrastructure, policy framework, and the impact of electric mobility on the environment and the economy.

Experimental and numerical study of combustion characteristics of ammonia–hydrogen–air swirling flame with/without secondary air injection

Ammonia (NH3) is currently considered to be a potential carbon-free alternative fuel, and its large-scale use as such would certainly decrease greenhouse gas emissions and meet increasingly stringent emission requirements. Although the low flame propagation speed and high NO production of NH3 hinder its direct application as a renewable fuel, co-combustion of NH3–H2 is an effective way to overcome these challenges. In this study, the combustion characteristics of NH3–H2 swirling flames under different equivalence ratios and H2 blending ratios conditions are both numerically and experimentally investigated. Numerically, the One-Dimensional (1D) laminar flame computation presents a comparison base and the Three-Dimensional (3D) numerical simulation yields detailed flame property distributions. Experimentally, the high-speed camera takes instantaneous swirl flame images and the gas analyzer measures the NO emission at the exit plane of the flame chamber. Qualitative and quantitative analysis is performed on the flame structure and NO emission for a series of NH3–H2 swirl flames. The variation trends of the NO emission calculated using different techniques agree very well. The quantitative results show that the NO emissions are much higher at lean equivalence ratios than those at rich equivalence ratios, and such difference is closely related to the combustion flame structure. Moreover, it is shown that the utilization of secondary air injection can achieve a significant reduction in NO emissions at the exit of the combustion chamber at equivalence ratios less than or equal to 0.9.