Greenhouse Gas Emissions Research Articles

Interior Design Education in the Context of Climate Change: A Systematic Assessment of Existing Capacity in Türkiye

The increase in the global mean temperature leads to the climate change events we experience today. To limit global warming at +1.5-2°C, actors of the built environment -who are responsible for 40% of the greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere- along with their institutions and authorities, should act. However, recent studies indicate that the awareness level of actors from the interior design field on their role in climate action is lower than that of other built environment-related disciplines. Nevertheless, higher education institutions that are dealing with complex, abstract concepts such as climate change itself, more often than other educational institutions, are thought to have a significant role in this awareness issue since awareness can be boosted by knowledge and learning. Yet, the nexus of design education and climate change in Türkiye has not been well-studied. However, assessing the existing capacity of individuals, institutions, and entities can provide guidance to cope with the impacts of climate change. Therefore, this study aims to assess the existing capacity of interior design education in Türkiye in the context of climate change via a systematic assessment to determine the awareness levels of higher education institutes, including the actors of interior design scholars and interior design students, in Türkiye. To achieve that, it employs a 3-phased assessment in the curriculums of (1) undergraduate programs, (2) graduate programs of interior design departments, and (3) theses which are conducted on the topic in Türkiye. Statistical results were interpreted under two main subjects: climate change-focused and climate change-related. While the significantly low results of focused ones addressed an educational gap in the curriculums, promising numbers of climate change-related courses and theses indicate an ongoing process that can be boosted by increasing the awareness levels of the educational actors

A novel strategic planning and sequencing optimisation model for Fully Mobile In-Pit Crusher Conveyor (FMIPCC) systems

ABSTRACT Truck haulage reliant operations generally experience higher operating costs due to longer haulage distances. With growing attention on the environmental impacts of mining, particularly greenhouse gas emissions, alternatives like Fully Mobile In-Pit Crusher Conveyor (FMIPCC) systems are being explored. In this system, the crusher is fed directly by a digging unit at the working face, with material then transported via a conveyor belt network. However, FMIPCC’s reduced flexibility requires advanced strategic planning, for which no commercial tools are currently available. This research develops a mixed-integer programming model to optimise FMIPCC planning, integrating key constraints and maximising Net Present Value (NPV).

Development of a Novel Carbon Emissions Estimation Tool for Disposable Waste Associated with Antimicrobial Packaging, Preparation, and Administration in the Hospital Setting

Abstract Background Addressing climate change is one of the most pressing needs of society. The One Health approach recognizes the importance of antimicrobials at the intersection between humans, animals, and the environment and advocates for mitigation of antimicrobial overuse, primarily as a means of preventing antimicrobial resistance. Antimicrobial use additionally contributes to climate change through consumption of single-use disposable products used for packaging, drug preparation, and intravenous drug administration, which in turn generates greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions when disposed. Methods We sought to estimate the GHG emissions associated with intravenous antimicrobials given in the hospital setting, initially performing the data collection in a large academic hospital in Cleveland, Ohio and validating the data in another large academic hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. For each antimicrobial agent, we identified all disposable packaging, preparation, and administration materials. Materials were weighed, classified by type, and total GHG emissions measured in carbon dioxide equivalents were calculated using emission factors defined by the Environmental Protection Agency. Results Results were summarized in tables listing GHG emissions per dose per antimicrobial agent, and a calculator tool was created in spreadsheet format to accommodate antimicrobial use data collected by hospital antimicrobial stewardship programs. Conclusions We developed a novel tool for estimating GHG emissions associated with single-use waste generated from IV antimicrobial packaging, preparation, and administration in the hospital setting. This tool can be used by antimicrobial stewardship programs to assess their institutions’ GHG emissions and provide another value measure through quantifying avoided GHG emissions with antimicrobial optimization strategies.

Threshold Soil Moisture Levels Influence Soil CO2 Emissions: A Machine Learning Approach to Predict Short-Term Soil CO2 Emissions from Climate-Smart Fields

Machine learning (ML) models are widely used to analyze the spatiotemporal impacts of agricultural practices on environmental sustainability, including the contribution to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Management practices, such as organic amendment applications, are critical pillars of Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) strategies that mitigate GHG emissions while maintaining adequate crop yields. This study investigated the critical threshold of soil moisture level associated with soil CO2 emissions from organically amended plots using the classification and regression tree (CART) algorithm. Also, the study predicted the short-term soil CO2 emissions from organically amended systems using soil moisture and weather variables (i.e., air temperature, relative humidity, and solar radiation) using multilinear regression (MLR) and generalized additive models (GAMs). The different organic amendments considered in this study are biochar (2268 and 4536 kg ha−1) and chicken and dairy manure (0, 224, and 448 kg N/ha) under a sweet corn crop in the greater Houston area, Texas. The results of the CART analysis indicated a direct link between soil moisture level and the magnitude of CO2 flux emission from the amended plots. A threshold of 0.103 m3m−3 was calculated for treatment amended by biochar level I (2268 kg ha−1) and chicken manure at the N recommended rate (CXBX), indicating that if the soil moisture is less than the 0.103 m3m−3 threshold, then the median soil CO2 emission is 142 kg ha−1 d−1. Furthermore, applying biochar at a rate of 4536 kg ha−1 reduced the soil CO2 emissions by 14.5% compared to the control plots. Additionally, the results demonstrate that GAMs outperformed MLR, exhibiting the highest performance under the combined effect of chicken and biochar. We conclude that quantifying soil moisture thresholds will provide valuable information for the sustainable mitigation of soil CO2 emissions.

Evaluation of Greenhouse Gas-Flux-Determination Models and Calculation in Southeast Arkansas Cotton Production

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions evaluations from agroecosystems are critical, particularly as technology improves. Consistent GHG measurement methods are essential to the evaluation of GHG emissions. The objective of the study was to evaluate potential differences in gas-flux-determination (GFD) options and carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) fluxes and growing-season-long emissions estimates from furrow-irrigated cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) in southeast Arkansas. Four GFD methods were evaluated [i.e., linear (L) or exponential (E) regression models, with negative fluxes (WNF) included in the dataset or replacing negative fluxes (RNF)] over the 2024 growing season using a LI-COR field-portable chamber and gas analyzers. Exponential regression models were influenced by abnormal CO2 and N2O gas concentration data points, indicating the use of caution with E models. Season-long CH4 emissions differed (p < 0.05) between the WNF (- 0.51 kg ha−1 season−1 for L and−0.54 kg ha−1 season−1 for E) and RNF (0.01 kg ha−1 season−1 for L and E) GFD methods, concluding that RNF options over-estimate CH4 emissions. Gas concentration measurements following chamber closure should remain under 300 s, with one concentration measurement obtained per second. The choice of GFD method needs careful consideration to result in accurate GHG fluxes and season-long emission estimates.

Green Finance and Economic Growth: Empirical Evidence from Panel Data Using CCEMG and PCSE Methods

This article constructs a comprehensive Green Finance Index (GFI) to explore the connection between sustainable finance and economic growth across 43 developed and developing countries, as classified by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), over the period 2013 to 2023. The GFI is developed based on three core dimensions—Finance, Environment, and Economy—using indicators such as green bonds, green loans, green investments, greenhouse gas emissions, forestry, and energy intensity of the economy. A min-max normalization method is employed to ensure comparability across countries and overtime. Using the Common Correlated Effects Mean Group (CCEMG) estimator as the primary methodology and the Panel-Corrected Standard Errors (PCSE) approach as a robustness check; the study investigates both the long-term and short-term dynamics of this relationship. The results reveal a clear contrast between short-run and long-run effects: while trade openness demonstrates a statistically significant and immediate impact on economic growth in the short run, green finance exerts its influence primarily over the long term. This suggests that sustainable financial investments contribute to economic development in a gradual and structural manner, highlighting the importance of long-term policy commitment and integration of green finance mechanisms into national and international economic strategies.

ЭКОНОМИЧЕСКИЕ АСПЕКТЫ АГРОЛЕСОВОДСТВА

Agriculture occupies a significant part of the Earth's land area and is one of the main sources of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. In the context of increasing climate aridity and desertification of Russian regions, as well as decreasing forest area, the search for balanced solutions for sustainable land use is an urgent issue. Aim. The aim of the research is to analyse the economic aspects of the agroforestry implementation in Russia, assessing its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the sustainability of the agrosphere. Methods. The work uses methods of comparative analysis of existing forest reclamation systems and agrofor-estry practices, assessment of land fund for the implementation of climate projects, and analysis of factors limiting the use of protective forest plantations for carbon sequestration. Results. It was found that the Russian systems of protective forest plantations in their current form do not pro-vide the necessary effect for the development of climate-oriented projects. The main advantages of agroforestry: syn-ergetic effect of combining forest and agricultural crops, additional economic income, high manageability have been identified. The potential of agroforestry in the formation of land fund for climate projects and its investment attrac-tiveness has been determined. Practical application. The results can be used by agricultural and nature management authorities to develop measures to integrate agroforestry and increase farm resilience, as well as by investors and climate project developers to select effective solutions for carbon sequestration and ecosystem services development.

Reducing U.S. military spending could lead to substantial decreases in energy consumption

The U.S. military is a significant contributor to the climate crisis and other sustainability concerns. However, there is very limited research on how changes in U.S. military spending directly impact Department of Defense energy consumption and thereby greenhouse gas emissions. Here, we conduct a time series analysis of the relationship between U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) direct energy consumption and U.S. military expenditures from 1975 to 2022, and we test for directional asymmetry in the effect of expenditures on energy consumption. We estimate error correction models, which we ensure are free from residual autocorrelation and structural breaks. We find that a decrease in expenditures has a larger effect on decreasing energy consumption than an increase in expenditures does on increasing consumption. Further analyses reveal that this is due to cuts in DOD energy consumption from facilities and vehicles and equipment, and jet fuel in particular. We also illustrate the potential impacts of different spending decisions on DOD energy consumption and present a forecast from 2023 to 2032 for seven different scenarios. We show that sustained cuts to U.S. military expenditures could result in annual energy savings on par with what the nation of Slovenia or the U.S. state of Delaware consumes annually by 2032.

Autogenous Pressure Assisted Aqua‐Thermal Regeneration of Spent Graphite in a Designed Reactor: Second‐Life Electrochemistry and Technoenvironmental Benefits

Abstract A green and sustainable route of recycling spent graphite is the solution of its forthcoming shortage. Present recycling approaches include high‐temperature treatment in the range of 700–1500 °C accompanied by several steps of washing with toxic solvents causing secondary environment pollution. Herein, a solvothermal stirring reactor is designed, which accomplishes graphite regeneration at an appreciably low temperature of 200 °C in aqueous media. The simultaneous impact of temperature and centrifugal force assisted by the pressure autogenerated within closed reactor eliminates surface impurity, repairs structural disorder, and yields 99.9% pure product. Regenerated graphite serves second life as good as first life exhibiting Li+‐intercalation capacity of 321 mAh g−1 at 0.5C current rate with 92.8% capacity retention after 200 cycles. This one‐step graphite reclamation route is environmentally benign too reducing energy input, water consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions as quantified by techno‐environmental calculations.

A Tableau Tool for an Climate Changes and Environmental Impact

Climate change is one of the most pressing global concerns, affecting ecosystems, economies, and human well-being. It is primarily driven by greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, industrial activities, and unsustainable consumption patterns. This project leverages Tableau Software to visualize climate trends, analyze CO₂ emissions, temperature variations, extreme weather patterns, and environmental degradation, and propose data-driven solutions to mitigate climate change effects. The goal is to create interactive, easy-to-understand dashboards that can assist researchers, policymakers, and environmental organizations in assessing climate risks and implementing effective policies

Yield Increase and Emission Reduction Effects of Alfalfa in the Yellow River Irrigation District of Gansu Province: The Coupling Mechanism of Biodegradable Mulch and Controlled-Release Nitrogen Fertilizer

Agricultural production in Northwest China is widely constrained by residual plastic film pollution, excessive greenhouse gas emissions, and low productivity. Integrating biodegradable film with controlled-release nitrogen fertilizer offers a promising approach to optimize crop management, enhance yield, and improve environmental outcomes. In this study, three planting patterns (conventional flat planting, FP; ridge mulching with biodegradable film, BM; and ridge mulching with conventional plastic film, PM), two nitrogen fertilizer types (urea, U, and controlled-release nitrogen fertilizer, C), and four nitrogen application rates (0, 80, 160, and 240 kg·hm−2) were applied to systematically investigate their effects on alfalfa yield and N2O emissions from grasslands. The results showed that BM and PM increased alfalfa yield by 23.49% and 18.65%, respectively, compared to FP, while C increased yield by 8.46% compared to urea. The highest yield (24.84 t·hm−2) was recorded under the BMC2 treatment, which was 97.11% higher than that of FPN0. N2O emission flux and cumulative emissions increased with nitrogen application rate. Compared with U, C reduced cumulative N2O emissions and greenhouse gas emission intensity (GHGI) by 23.89% and 25.84%, respectively. Compared to PM, BM reduced cumulative N2O emissions and GHGI by 11.58% and 20.15%, respectively. Principal component analysis indicated that the combination of ridge mulching with biodegradable film and 160 kg·hm−2 of C was optimal for simultaneously increasing alfalfa yield and reducing N2O emissions, making it a suitable planting–fertilization strategy for the Yellow River irrigation district in Gansu and similar ecological regions.

Life cycle assessment of structural glued laminated timber production with different dimensions and exposure conditions

Glued laminated timber (glulam) is an essential material in modern wooden constructions that offers advantages in terms of strength and versatility. This study conducted a life cycle assessment (LCA) of glulam production in Japan and analyzed the environmental impacts based on different dimensions and exposure conditions. Primary data were collected from 12 factories representing 58.1% of Japan’s production. The assessment followed the ISO 14040/14044 standards and employed mass-based allocation as the primary approach, with economic allocation analyzed for comparison. The results revealed that the major contributors to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from glulam production were purchased lamina manufacturing (38%), transportation (27%), and electricity consumption (21%). Large-dimension glulam exhibited the highest environmental impact, largely due to their increased energy consumption. Despite the differences in adhesive types for various exposure conditions, their impact on overall emissions was relatively minor. A sensitivity analysis of the allocation methods revealed significant variations in the reported emissions, emphasizing the importance of methodological choices in LCA studies. This study provides geographically representative LCA data for glulam production in Japan, thereby contributing to improvements in sustainable manufacturing practices. These findings highlight the need to optimize raw material procurement, decarbonize energy, and improve transport efficiency to reduce environmental impacts. Future research should refine the LCA data quality, particularly for lamina production and international supply chains. These insights can support policy development and industrial efforts toward more environmentally sustainable wood utilization.

Temperate seaweeds Himanthalia elongata and Fucus vesiculosus significantly reduce rumen methane emissions in vitro due to their high phlorotannin content.

Global food insecurity and the fact that food production contributes around 30% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is a major planetary challenge. Ruminant products are widely consumed since they are macro- and micronutrient dense; however, ruminants produce enteric methane (CH4), a potent GHG. Feeding seaweeds, such as Asparagopsis spp., to ruminants reduces enteric CH4 emissions. This study investigates the CH4 mitigation potential of seaweeds, including Alaria esculenta (AE), Ascophyllum nodosum (AN), Asparagopsis taxiformis (AT; positive control), Chondrus crispus (CC), Fucus vesiculosus (FV), Himanthalia elongata (HE) and two seaweed-derived extracts - Himanthalia elongata (XHE), and Chondrus crispus (XCC) - on rumen fermentation (CH4, ammonia (NH3), volatile fatty acids (VFA) and pH) at three timepoints (4, 24 and 48 h). The contents of volatile organic compounds (VOC) and phlorotannin (PT) of the seaweeds were also investigated for insight into the mode of action. As expected, AT consistently reduced CH4 production in comparison to the respective negative grass silage controls (~93.3%) and other tested seaweeds (P < 0.05) at all timepoints. At 4 h AN, FV, XCC and XHE elicited a reduction in CH4 of 2.0%, 3.0%, 40.9% and 31.1%, respectively, over the negative controls. XHE was the only tested seaweed to reduce CH4 production (4.9%) at the 24 h timepoint. At 48 h FV, CC, HE, XCC and XHE showed reductions of 14.4%, 2.9%, 1.9%, 2.8% and 42.8%, respectively, over the negative controls. As a consequence of their high PT content, XHE and FV show promise for GHG mitigation in ruminants, thereby aiding ruminant food security. © 2025 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Presumptions for the Integration of Green Hydrogen and Biomethane Production in Wastewater Treatment Plants

Achieving climate neutrality goals is inseparable from the sustainable development of modern cities. Municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) are among the starting points when moving cities to Net-zero Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and climate neutrality. This study focuses on the analysis of the integration of green hydrogen (H2) and biomethane technologies in WWTPs, and on the impact of this integration on WWTPs’ energy neutrality. This study treats WWTP as an integrated energy system with certain inputs and outputs. Currently, such systems in most cases have a significantly negative energy balance, and, in addition, fossil fuel energy sources are used. Key findings highlight that the integration of green hydrogen production in WWTPs and the efficient utilization of electrolysis by-products can make such energy systems neutral or even positive. This study provides an analysis of the main technical presumptions for the successful integration of green hydrogen and biomethane production processes in WWTP. Furthermore, a case study of a real wastewater treatment plant is presented.

Pace of adoption of alternatives to animal-source foods is an important factor in reaching climate goals

The global food system is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions that drive climate change. Animal agriculture accounts for a large share of food-system emissions, both directly and through the production of animal feed. Global population growth and rising incomes imply a further increase in demand for animal-source foods if current trends persist. Limiting global warming to the targets set by the international community will not be possible without the rapid reduction of a substantial share of animal-source foods. We show that the rapid adoption of alternatives to animal-source foods, such as plant-only diets or plant-based, cultured, or fermentation-derived analogs to animal products, can be consistent with climate goals while satisfying global demand for calories and protein. Importantly, timing is crucial: the longer the delay in adopting alternatives, the larger the share of the diet that must shift away from animal-source food by 2050 for the food system to remain within its carbon budget.

Beyond default estimates: developing system-specific Tier 2 enteric methane emission factors for rangeland cattle in Kenya

Livestock production in Kenya is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane (CH4) from enteric fermentation. The objective of the study was to estimate enteric methane (CH4) emission factors (EFs, kg CH4/head/year) for rangeland cattle in Kenya. The study utilized the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Tier 2 method, incorporating animal characteristics, performance data, and diet digestibility. Data were obtained from 1,486 cattle across three locations in Kenya’s pastoral areas: Kapiti Research Station and Wildlife Conservancy (815 cattle), Olkirimatian Community Ranch (347 cattle), and Shompole Community Ranch (324 cattle) all located in southern Kenya. Animal activity data were collected for four seasons during 1 year at Kapiti, and one dry and one wet season in Olkirimatian and Shompole. The EFs were estimated for wet and dry seasons, allowing the calculation of mean annual EFs. The EFs were calculated for the different cattle categories: adult females and males (≥3 years), young males and females (1–3 years) and calves (&amp;lt;1 year). The results revealed significant differences in herd composition, live weight (LW), weight gains, milk yield, and digestible energy (DE) of pasture among the locations, all of which influence CH4 emissions. LW varied among the three locations due to differences in breed between sites and varied substantially compared to Tier 1 assumptions, and DE differed significantly across sites (54.5%–66.4%), despite the Tier 1 approach assuming a fixed DE value for pasture (58%). There was a significant difference (p &amp;lt; 0.05) in the herd level EF of all cattle categories: Kapiti (64 ± 0.9 kg CH4/head/year), followed by Olkirimatian (52 ± 1.2 kg CH4/head/year) and Shompole (42 ± 1.0 kg CH4/head/year). A comparison of the estimated herd level Tier 2 EFs with computed herd level Tier 1 values revealed that Kapiti exhibited 18% higher mean Tier 2 EFs, while it was lower by 7% and 28% in Olkirimatian and Shompole, respectively. These findings highlight the need for system-specific national EFs that better capture the diversity of production systems and breed differences. Policymakers and researchers should revise IPCC default values to incorporate breed-specific factors within systems.

Evaluating Low Carbon Development Strategies Using the DEMATEL Technique A Multi-Criteria Approach to Climate Change Mitigation

Low carbon development refers to an approach that aims to address climate change and support sustainable economic growth by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It involves the implementation of strategies and policies that prioritize renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and sustainable practices in various sectors such as energy, transportation, agriculture, and construction. This summary provides an overview of the fundamental principles and advantages of low carbon development, highlighting its potential to tackle climate change, enhance energy security, foster innovation, and create environmentally friendly job opportunities. It also examines the importance of international cooperation and policy frameworks in enabling the shift towards a low-carbon economy cannot be overstated. These mechanisms play a crucial role in facilitating the transition and emphasize the necessity of collective efforts to attain global climate objectives. International cooperation forms the basis for tackling climate change worldwide. It establishes a platform for countries to work together, allowing them to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and transfer technologies necessary for effectively transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Collaborative efforts enable nations to combine their resources and expertise, making it easier to develop and adopt sustainable solutions. In essence, embracing low-carbon development provides a roadmap towards a future that is both sustainable and resilient, striking a harmonious equilibrium between economic growth, social welfare, and environmental conservation. Effective policies and governance frameworks are essential for facilitating the transition to a low carbon economy. Research in this field provides insights into the design, implementation, and evaluation of policies and regulatory measures. It helps identify barriers and opportunities for policy implementation, assesses the effectiveness of existing policies, and offers recommendations for policy improvements. Research also contributes to international cooperation and the development of global agreements and mechanisms to address climate change. research in low carbon development is of significant importance as it contributes to climate change mitigation, sustainable economic growth, energy security, technological innovation, and effective policy and governance. It provides evidence-based solutions and recommendations to guide policymakers, businesses, and society towards a more sustainable and resilient future. In this research we will be using DEMATEL technique. We have taken alternative parameters and evaluation parameters are Absolutely more important, strongly more important, obviously more important, slightly more important, equally important. out of all the 5 alternatives, absolutely more important, gets first rank and obviously more important is last rank. With the demote technique we are able to find the best project Inlow carbon development has been evaluated with various parameters and methodology.

Are Sustainable Supply Chains Managing Scope 3 Emissions? A Systematic Literature Review

The sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) literature does not directly address Scope 3 emissions despite their role as primary drivers of greenhouse gas emissions. This study aims to provide an overview of the main themes through which the SSCM literature has considered Scope 3 emissions and identify further avenues for research. A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted. Scopus and Web of Science were the databases considered. Sixty-one papers were included in the analysis. Most papers focus on assessing and estimating Scope 3 emissions, followed by papers that discuss the reporting of Scope 3 emissions. These papers shed light on how firms may not report Scope 3 emissions if the information is negative to improve investors’ perception of the firm. The last group of papers discusses practices and strategies to manage Scope 3 emissions. The main challenge identified in establishing strategies to manage Scope 3 emissions is engagement with stakeholders, as, generally, only one or two tiers of the value chain cooperate. This study is the first to organize the literature on Scope 3 emissions under the lens of SSCM. If supply chains are to become more sustainable, focal enterprise coordination must be effective and leverage practices such as Scope 3 emissions metrics and measurement, data sharing, and green product development for all stakeholders.

Energy retrofitting by using building information modelling-based energy model

PurposeIn 2022, buildings were responsible for 30% of the world’s final energy demand and contributed to 26% of global greenhouse gas emissions. To achieve a high level of energy efficiency, it is imperative to consider energy retrofitting of existing buildings due to it forms most of the built environment. This research aims to propose an ideal strategy of energy retrofit measures to increase energy efficiency on one of existing public buildings by using Building Information Modelling (BIM)-based energy model.Design/methodology/approachThis research was conducted through three phases. The first phase was data acquisition where the current condition of the existing building was determined. The second phase was modelling process. The BIM-based energy model was created based on the building as-built condition. The third phase was strategies simulation which different strategies of energy retrofit measures were simulated to find the ideal strategy for the existing building.FindingsResearch found out that the Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) system of existing buildings has the greatest potential to increase energy efficiency. The ideal strategy to implement found out to be strategy which replacing the HVAC systems to high-efficiency Variable Air Volume systems and reduce the Light Power Density by 60% through upgrading the lighting system.Originality/valueBy integrating BIM with energy analysis, the post-retrofit energy consumption of different strategies can be compared effectively, and robust decision-making frameworks can be developed, thus enhancing building sustainability and advancing towards net-zero carbon objectives.

Most Advanced Construction Material for Typical Boilers

Abstract: The development of advanced construction materials for typical boilers has been pivotal in enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and environmental sustainability of power generation systems. Modern boiler designs operate under extreme conditions, including elevated temperatures (up to 700°C) and high pressures, necessitating materials with exceptional mechanical properties and resistance to corrosion, oxidation, and creep. Key advancements include high-strength steels, nickel-based alloys, and advanced austenitic steels. High-strength chromium steels, such as HCM12, provide an optimal balance of weldability and resistance to creep and corrosion, making them suitable for pressure parts. Nickel-based alloys, such as Alloy 617 and Alloy 625, are integral for components exposed to the highest thermal stresses, offering superior creep strength and oxidation resistance. Austenitic steels, such as Sanicro 25, are widely adopted in superheater and reheater tubes due to their robust high-temperature performance. Research initiatives, such as the Advanced Ultra-Supercritical (A-USC) Boiler Consortium and the European AD700 program, have driven material innovation, focusing on achieving higher operational efficiencies while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These projects emphasize material testing and qualification to ensure durability under prolonged high-temperature service. The ongoing evolution of boiler materials is essential for advancing ultra-supercritical and other next-generation power plants, enabling more efficient energy production with reduced environmental impact. This abstract summarizes the key materials and trends shaping the future of boiler construction.