Evaluation Of Environmental Sustainability Research Articles

Greening the procurement: a SMART evaluation of environmental sustainability in Australian government purchasing policies

PurposeThis study evaluates how well Victorian local councils’ procurement policies align with the sustainable and circular economy (CE) approach that prioritises sustainable and regenerative practices. It proposes a set of criteria designed to effectively integrate environmental sustainability issues into purchasing policies.Design/methodology/approachEmploying the Specific, Measurable, Assignable, Realistic and Time-bound (SMART) framework, a multi-dimensional content analysis guided by the goal-setting theory was applied to evaluate all 79 Victorian local councils’ procurement policies. This approach provided an assessment of policy specificity, measurability, assignability, realism and time sensitivity in promoting environmental sustainability through purchasing policies.FindingsThe findings underscored a significant deficiency in policy adherence to all SMART criteria concerning environmental sustainability, hindering the effective green purchasing decisions within government entities. This lack of integration of greening in purchasing policy poses challenges for manufacturers of waste-derived goods, obscuring the procurement objectives of these critical public sector customers.Practical implicationsThe paper contributes to the sustainable procurement (SP) discourse by proposing guidelines aimed at improving the efficacy of governmental purchasing of sustainable products. These guidelines address the broader imperative to mitigate the environmental impacts of governmental spending on less sustainable goods, thereby fostering ecological sustainability and promoting responsible consumption.Originality/valueWhile past studies have often relied on subjective content analysis methods, the SMART assessment used to develop the environmental sustainability criteria for purchasing policies, which distinguishes this study from previous governmental policy evaluation studies. This approach marks a departure from traditional governmental policy evaluation studies, offering a more structured analysis of policy effectiveness in promoting SP practices.

Reviving Cultural Heritage: Incorporating Prefabricated Elements in Mongolian Yurt Renewal Design

This study extensively explores the multifaceted realm of Mongolian yurts, deeply ingrained in Mongolia's cultural heritage and emblematic of nomadic life. Through detailed case studies, it investigates the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern architectural principles and the application of prefabricated elements for yurt renewal. These yurts, situated in diverse sociocultural contexts, provide a comprehensive cross-section of their architectural heritage, spanning from ancestral to contemporary instances. The methodology involves a harmonious synthesis of indigenous wisdom, sustainable material selection, and precision prefabrication techniques. Initiating with a meticulous analysis of each yurt's structural condition, historical significance, and cultural relevance, skilled artisans and contemporary architects collaboratively integrate prefabricated elements tailored to the unique attributes of each yurt while preserving heritage-specific designs. Qualitative and quantitative data collected through fieldwork, custodian interviews, and structural assessments form the basis for an exhaustive analysis. The analysis covers architectural heritage preservation, the effectiveness of prefabricated elements in enhancing structural integrity while retaining cultural authenticity, as well as the evaluation of environmental sustainability and energy efficiency, shedding light on ecological impact. This research makes a significant contribution to the field of heritage conservation, extending its implications beyond Mongolian yurts. It underscores the dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation, advocating a reconsideration of the perceived past-versus-future dichotomy. The potential of prefabricated elements unveiled in yurt renewal offers a globally relevant path that respects historical significance while embracing modernity.

Synergistic evaluation of energy security and environmental sustainability in BRICS geo-political entities: An integrated index framework

Research background: The increasing demand for energy, driven by economic growth and population expansion, is a critical driver of societal progress. However, the predominant reliance on fossil fuels to meet this demand presents significant challenges, particularly in the rapidly developing BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). These countries are faced with a complex interplay of energy security and environmental sustainability issues, stemming from their substantial fossil fuel reserves and the associated environmental consequences. The challenges manifest as inequalities in access to clean energy, environmental degradation, and heightened vulnerability to the impacts of climate change. Addressing these multifaceted issues requires a comprehensive approach. Metrics-based strategies, which employ aggregated indices derived from a diverse set of energy and environmental indicators, have the potential to provide valuable insights into these complexities. However, the development of a universally applicable energy sustainability index is complicated by the heterogeneity of metrics, disparities between countries, and methodological challenges, emphasizing the need for an innovative and holistic analytical framework. Purpose of the article: This study aims to develop a tailored Energy Security and Environmental Sustainability Index for BRICS economies to evaluate the robustness of their energy systems and the viability of their ecological practices. The index serves as an instrument to assess the progress of these nations in the Energy and Environment domain and identify areas that require targeted interventions and improvements. Methods: The construction of the composite ESESI involves the selection of relevant parameters and the application of a Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) framework in conjunction with the Weighted Product Method (WPM). To ensure objectivity in the determination of optimal and least favorable weights for each indicator, the study employs the Multiplicative Data Envelopment Analysis (MDEA) model. Findings & value added: The ESESI analysis reveals disparities in the progress made by BRICS nations in enhancing energy security, promoting renewable energy deployment, and mitigating environmental impacts. While some countries demonstrate substantial advancements, others face challenges in improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. The study underscores the necessity for tailored policies and targeted infrastructural enhancements that align with the unique challenges and strengths of each nation. Harnessing the abundant renewable energy potential through advanced energy trade mechanisms and fostering cross-border investments are identified as crucial strategies for ensuring environmental sustainability and long-term energy in the BRICS region. The ESESI provides a valuable tool for policymakers and researchers to evaluate the progress of BRICS nations in achieving sustainable energy goals and to inform evidence-based decision-making processes. By offering a comprehensive and scientifically rigorous assessment framework, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable energy transitions and environmental stewardship in the context of rapidly developing economies.

Investigation on Surface Roughness and Power Consumption for Sustainability Assessment in Hard Turning of HSLA Steel With SPPP‐AlTiSiN–Coated Carbide Tool Under Various Cooling‐Lubrications

ABSTRACTThe present research analyses the power consumption (Pc) and surface roughness (Ra) in hard turning of high‐strength low‐alloy (HSLA) grade AISI 4140 steel using a recently developed AlTiSiN‐coated carbide tool under different cooling‐lubrication conditions (dry, flooded, nanofluid‐MQL). The nanofluid was prepared by mixing the MWCNT nanoparticles with an eco‐friendly automotive radiator coolant (base fluid). The cooling‐lubrication performance is investigated briefly by comparing the machining responses like machined surface morphology, tool wear, cutting force and temperature. The experiments associated with 46 trials were performed by considering various machining variables, namely cutting speed, nose radius, depth of cut, feed and cooling‐lubrication methods. From the perspective of predictive modelling and multi‐response optimisation, response surface methodology has been employed to minimise power consumption and surface roughness. Thereafter, the predictive modelling and optimisation results are implemented for economic analysis and energy‐saving carbon footprint evaluation. This innovative research also addresses comparative environmental sustainability evaluation in hard turning under different cooling‐lubrication conditions using a life cycle assessment methodology for cleaner and safer production. Results indicate that cutting speed was the most influential item in power consumption enhancement. Furthermore, compared with dry and flooded turning, lower cutting force, reduced cutting temperature, shorter width of flank wear and better surface morphology were obtained under nanofluid‐MQL machining. It has been observed that nanofluid‐MQL machining outperformed sustainability improvement concerning techno‐economically viable societal acceptable and environmental friendliness.

Technology Focus: Wellbore Tubulars (July 2024)

The oil and gas industry has witnessed significant advancements in downhole technology, driving improved efficiency, sustainability, and well integrity. The technical papers here offer valuable insights into these developments, exploring nonmetallic downhole tubulars, collaborative ecosystems, material selection, environmental sustainability, and mechanical evaluation, showing a promising alternative to traditional steel counterparts. Paper SPE 214647 explores operational experiences with glass-reinforced-epoxy-lined tubing, highlighting significant benefits such as corrosion protection, cost savings, and improved well integrity. The journey from pilot to large-scale implementation reveals valuable insights into the technology’s evolution and challenges faced by operators. Complementing this, paper IPTC 23491 emphasizes the pivotal role of ecosystem partners in realizing nonmetallic tubulars. It underscores the need for multidisciplinary collaboration across academia, research institutes, manufacturers, and service providers to navigate challenges and drive innovation effectively. Paper IPTC 23549, included in the recommended reading list, delves into materials and construction aspects critical for successful deployment. It discusses the selection of nonmetallic materials, pipe-construction considerations, and the importance of standardization to meet stringent downhole requirements, signaling a path toward product development and commercialization. Concurrently, paper SPE 214488 addresses mechanical evaluations and interventions in nonmetallic tubulars, showcasing advancements in testing methodologies and tool deployment. Insights gleaned from these evaluations inform future research and development efforts to enhance product reliability and performance. Finally, the carbon life-cycle assessment of nonmetallic tubulars in recommended-reading paper IPTC 24122 underscores environmental sustainability as a driving force behind innovation. By evaluating carbon footprints and life-cycle effects, the industry seeks to adopt ecofriendly solutions without compromising operational efficiency. The synthesis of these papers underscores the transformative potential of nonmetallic downhole tubulars in reshaping oilfield operations. Through collaborative partnerships, material advancements, rigorous testing, and environmental considerations, the industry strives toward safer, more-sustainable, and more-cost-effective solutions. Recommended additional reading at OnePetro: www.onepetro.org. IPTC 23549 Making Nonmetallic Downhole Tubulars a Reality—Materials and Construction by Serena L.M. Goh, Baker Hughes, et al. IPTC 24122 Carbon Life-Cycle Assessment of Nonmetallic Downhole Tubulars by P. Sarmah, Baker Hughes, et al.

Environmental sustainability of milk production: a comparative environmental impact analysis and sustainability evaluation

ContextAssessing the sustainability of milk production in India (the largest milk producer country in the world) is essential to ensure that the dairy industry can meet the growing demands for dairy products while minimizing its negative impact on the environment, society, and the well-being of the people involved in the sector.ObjectiveCurrent research is intended to compare the emissions associated with packed milk production in two contrasting states, Punjab (an Indian state with helpful agricultural resources and plenty of water) and Rajasthan (a state with a significant desert area) of India. The dairy industry has to undergo different production processes, including livestock, feed, farming, transportation, processing, packaging, and distribution. All of these production steps generate environmental impacts. This study aims to compare the environmental impacts of milk production in Punjab and Rajasthan by understanding the variation in the ecological effects due to the modifications adopted in dairy practices.MethodsThis study uses Umberto LCA+ with Ecoinvent v3.6 dataset as a Life cycle assessment (LCA) tool and data collected from milk producers and processing plants. The primary data was collected from farmers (milk producers) and dairy plants (processing plants), real-time observations, and inputs from the processing plant staff. The LCA analysis was performed, including parameters such as feed agriculture, milking, storage, transportation, processing, packaging, and distribution.Results and conclusionThe analysis results indicate that milk production in Punjab is more environmentally efficient than in Rajasthan, and the feed required for cattle is a critical environmental impact-generating activity along with the selection of packaging material for processed milk.SignificanceThe current article assesses the environmental implications of milk production. The study employs a comprehensive analysis to inform sustainable practices and reduce the ecological footprint of this crucial industry.

Environmental Effects and Sustainability Evaluation of China's Digital Finance Development

Environmental Effects and Sustainability Evaluation of China's Digital Finance Development

Evaluation of green chemistry metrics for sustainable recycling of platinum group metals from spent automotive catalysts via bioleaching

This work evaluates the sustainability indicators of the biorecovery of platinum group metals from spent automotive catalysts with due consideration of the environment and efficiency for the evaluation of environmental sustainability.

Environmental sustainability evaluation of glycerol and propylene-based pathways to acrylic acid via different intermediates

Acrylic acid is an important industrial chemical used for the manufacturing of many consumer products. It is currently produced using fossil fuel-based propylene via acrolein intermediate. However, it can be...

INOVAÇÃO E TENDÊNCIAS DE SUSTENTABILIDADE AMBIENTAL NA INDÚSTRIA DE FITAS ADESIVAS

The last few years have presented an optimistic scenario for the adhesive tape industry on international scale. However, producers are being challenged to keep their operational structure competitive. Market demands and regulatory requirements also add increasing pressure for more sustainable products and more efficient production logistics processes. In this context, the present work evaluates the state of the art in innovation and environmental sustainability trends in the adhesive tapesindustry. Such environmental sustainability evaluation comprehended water usage in production processes, use of renewable electricity, CO2 emissions, use of organic solvents, waste recycling from the production process and circular economy initiatives by the main producers in this industrial field. These indicators are those that have been worked on by companies in the market and are in line with studies being carried out in the academic field.

Development of an LCA-based tool to assess the environmental sustainability level of cosmetics products

PurposeThe depletion of natural resources and the downgrading of the environment, driven by globalization and consumerism phenomena, are worldwide pushing the interest in sustainable manufacturing paradigm and environment preservation. It is moreover clear to academia and practitioners that the cosmetics industry needs to update its current operations to face new sustainable requirements and norms due to its ever-growing size and massive consumption of natural resources. Different methodologies, metrics, and indicators have been and are being proposed for solving the complex issues of environmental sustainability evaluation of cosmetics processes and products.MethodsAmong these approaches and methods, product-related assessment tools (e.g., life cycle assessment) are usually more focused on the environmental dimension of sustainability, and they are always based on the life cycle of the product. The core of this paper is on the development of a novel tool to classify cosmetics products based on the results of LCA: the eco-friendliness assessment tool (EFAT). The methodology of the work is structured into 5 main phases: definition of the scientific background of the work, definition of the tool requirements, tool development, testing of the tool, analysis of the results. The eco-friendliness assessment tool proposed is structured into two main parts: (i) process flow 1: environmental impact score and (ii) process flow 2: supplier environmental sustainability assessment.ResultsThe tool has been tested on a cosmetics product manufactured in a cosmetics company located in Italy. The acquisition of raw material process and primary packaging process are the two most critical processes resulting from the impact analysis of LCA methodology. The application of the EFAT tool shows the two possible most sustainable improved scenarios are as follows: (i) exploiting transportation of the primary packaging by sea and (ii) adopting the European location of the primary packaging supplier. The results coming from the tool application allowed the definition of the company product eco-friendliness. The eco-friendliness is symbolized by an alphabetical letter and a color.ConclusionsThe paper proposes a practical tool to assess the environmental sustainability level of cosmetics products, with the intention to overcome two of the main literature gaps found in the state of the art: (i) absence of LCA methodology implementation in the cosmetics industry on makeup products, (ii) absence of tools that rely on the results of the LCA analysis of a cosmetic product for understanding its sustainability level of sustainability.

Evaluation of urban environmental sustainability based on the integration of multi-improvement demands: a case study of Liaoning Province, China

Evaluation of urban environmental sustainability based on the integration of multi-improvement demands: a case study of Liaoning Province, China

Evaluation of environmental sustainability of the construction and operation phases of man‐made lakes; A case study: Chitgar Lake

AbstractEnvironmental sustainability of the Chitgar Lake construction project in Tehran, Iran, was evaluated by a life cycle assessment (LCA) method in two phases of construction and operation using SimaPro 8.2.3 software. The results of analysis by Centre voor Milieukunde Leiden (CML) and IMPACT methods demonstrated that during the construction and operation (assuming 80 years of operation) phases of the lake 0.102 and 0.141 Mt of CO2eq (affects global warming), 0.015 and 0.021 Mt of 1,4‐dichlorobenzene (DB)eq (results in toxicity for humans), 657.155 and 807.425 tons of SO2eq (leads to acidification), 150.123 and 69.374 tons of eq (causes eutrophication), 1597 and 2265 terajoules of primary energy (damages the resources), 0.1 and 0.138 Mt of CO2eq (impacts on climate change), 18205330.45 and 11424387.32 potentially disappeared function (PDF) × m2 × yr (harms the quality of the ecosystem), and 165.37 and 104.94 disability‐adjusted life year (DALY) (threats the human health) are caused, respectively. Electricity consumption has the greatest environmental impact on the operation phase of the lake. Furthermore, the operation phase of the lake is more harmful to the environment and human health compared to the construction phase.

Life cycle assessment of integrated bioelectrochemical-constructed wetland system: environmental sustainability and economic feasibility evaluation

The sustainability of the integrated bioelectrochemical-constructed wetland system (ECW) is still debatable. In this study, the environmental impact and economic performance of the conventionally constructed wetland (CW) and ECW were conducted using the life cycle assessment method. The results showed that both CW and ECW had significant impacts on the aquatic environment, especially on marine aquatic ecotoxicity. Although the application of the electrode module, especially the power supply, increased 118.0% of the environmental impacts from construction materials due to the massive use of plastics and metals, the overall environmental impact of ECW was 49.2% lower than that of the CW and the total global warming potential of ECW were mitigated by 69.1% compared with the CW. In terms of cost, the ECW could reduce 61.8% of the total cost when reaching the same effluent standard with the CW, indicating that ECW was environmentally and economically feasible.

Evaluation of environmental sustainability of one-part geopolymer binder concrete

Production of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) is a carbon-intensive process that generates significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) gas from the combustion of fossil fuels and thermal decomposition of limestone. Overall, cement industries are responsible for around 7 % of global CO2 emissions which poses a considerable threat to global climate change because of its greenhouse effects. The recent advent of geopolymer shows great potential to reduce carbon footprints by utilizing the industrial by-products, such as fly ash and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) and convert into a binding material. Generally, geopolymer binders are made using aluminosilicate compounds (fly ash and or GGBS) and an alkali activator (combination of sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide solution) called “two-part geopolymer”. Despite having superior engineering properties to conventional OPC concrete, geopolymer concrete has not been widely adopted in concrete industry so far. The safety hazards in mixing and handling geopolymer concrete posed by sodium hydroxide is one of the barriers to the adaptation of geopolymer concrete. Replacing liquid sodium hydroxide with less hazardous alkali materials, such as sodium carbonate powder not only makes the geopolymer binder less hazardous and easier for mixing and handling process but also makes it more environmentally sustainable because of its lower embodied energy compared to sodium hydroxide. This study investigates the environmental sustainability of structural grades one-part geopolymer concrete and compares the results with OPC concrete of same strength grades. This investigation also includes a comparison between various types of geopolymer concrete of 40 MPa and 50 MPa grades produced in previous studies. This study found that one-part geopolymer binder concrete emits around 65 % less CO2 than OPC concrete of same strength grades, which is also 23 % less than geopolymer concrete of same strength grades produced in previous studies.

New Environmental Approach Based on a Combination of Planetary Boundaries and Life Cycle Assessment in the Wood-Based Bioadhesive Market

The role of the bioeconomy based on the use of renewable resources and also on the valorization of bio-based waste could contribute to a higher degree of sustainability. In this sense, biobased processes and products should exhibit values for indicators that demonstrate and outperform their competing counterparts. To this end, it is essential to apply a methodology to conduct the assessment of environmental impacts and potential damages at a global level. Life cycle assessment (LCA) has proven to be a suitable method to study the environmental profiles and damage scores of products and/or processes within their life cycle. In this regard, LCA impact scores are transformed into planetary boundary (PB) values, for which a threshold has been previously established. This has been the focus of this article, in which the environmental sustainability ratios of different bioadhesive scenarios have been evaluated under the combined framework of PBs and LCA for wood-based bioadhesives following different allocation approaches based on egalitarian, utilitarian, and grandfathering principles. In this way, it has been possible to assess the potential of bioadhesives to replace synthetic resins in the wood-based panel production chain. The results obtained show some variability in the environmental profiles and indicators, but it is possible to conclude that the bioadhesives selected can be considered as sustainable alternatives. However, improvements are required in certain PB categories, such as climate change or biogeochemical flows, as in some cases, the threshold value is exceeded. Future research should focus on two strategic lines: the application of guidelines for the evaluation of environmental sustainability at the planetary level and the optimization of bio-adhesive production to reduce their impact with the aim of achieving a more adequate sustainability ratio.

Social Impact Assessment Comparison of Composite and Concrete Bridge Alternatives

The definition of sustainability includes three fundamental pillars: economic, environmental, and social. Studies of the economic impact on civil engineering infrastructures have been focused on cost reduction. It is not necessarily in line with economic sustainability due to the lack of other economic factors. Moreover, the social pillar assessment has been weakly developed compared to the economic and the environmental ones. It is essential to focus on the social pillar and evaluate clear indicators that allow researchers to compare alternatives. Furthermore, bridge life cycle assessment studies have been focused on concrete options. This has resulted in a lack of analysis of the impact of composite bridge alternatives. This study is conducted in two stages. The first part of the study makes a cradle-to-grave social and environmental sustainability evaluation with the SOCA v2 and ecoinvent v3.7.1 databases. This assessment is carried out on four concrete and composite bridge alternatives with span lengths between 15 and 40 m. The social impact weighting method and recipe have been used to obtain the social and environmental indicators. The second part of the study compares the results obtained from the social and environmental assessment of the concrete and the composite alternatives varying the steel recycling rate. The bridge alternatives are prestressed concrete solid slab, prestressed concrete lightened slab, prestressed concrete box-girder, and steel–concrete composite box-girder. The results show that composite options are the best for environmental impact, but the concrete box girder solutions are better for social impact. Furthermore, an increase in the steel recycling rate increases the social impact and decreases the environmental one.

Gold nanoclusters embedded in antimicrobial keyboard covers: life cycle assessment and environmental sustainability

Life cycle assessment can help quantify the environmental impacts of products embedding nanoparticles. Furthermore, it can support the evaluation of absolute environmental sustainability by employing carrying-capacity normalization factors.

The Analysis of Water Mass Movement in Lake Kisezers for Evaluation of Environmental Sustainability

Abstract Lake Kisezers is located near the Baltic Sea, the lake has a catchment area of 1903.26 km2 with a high potential for anthropogenic impacts both from water quantity and quality perspectives. This research aims to analyse the movement of water mass in Lake Kisezers and determine how to manage and help keep the lake sustainable. Lake Kisezers was selected as the study site, because of water level and flow data availability and hydrological vulnerability. The methodology used in this research is modifiable and different parts of the research can be used for the analysis of water mass movement in other lakes. Lake Kisezers is an example of how to perform an analysis of the hydrological regime. The research territory is complex because it is possible to study how water mass from the Baltic Sea, catchment area, Daugava River, and Riga HPP interact and influence the hydrological regime in Lake Kisezers. The data sets of water level used in this study are available since 1929. Lake Kisezers has a maximum water level change of 3.17 m. The study evaluates how water mass movements can affect the environmental sustainability of the lake. The results from the hydrological regime analysis can be used for further research and territory management in the favor of lake’s environmental quality and economic development. The research tasks are accomplished as the suggestions on how to manage Lake Kisezers in a sustainable manner have been elaborated.

The role of the cable car in sustainable mobility: management choices and an assessment of environmental sustainability. The Trento-Monte Bondone project

Purpose of the paper: The aim is twofold: a) to analyse the contexts best suited to, and to identify the best practices for, designing sustainable cable car mobility; b) to evaluate and compare the environmental impact of the management of cable car systems by defining two possible scenarios. Methodology: In the first phase, two examples of excellent cable car systems and intermodality in the alpine area (Innsbruck and Alpe di Siusi) were examined in order to identify good practices as applicable to the evaluation of the (T-MB) project. Seven key dimensions were identified to evaluate the origins and implementation of the two completed cableway projects. In the second phase, a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was carried out to evaluate the environmental sustainability of the project. Findings: From a managerial point of view, the T-MB project was initiated by public actors and adopts the instruments of participatory strategic planning widely used by the municipality of Trento over the last twenty years. The evaluation of environmental sustainability highlights the cable car as a valuable alternative transport mode because it reduces CO2 emissions and pollution and it can be constructed with minimal impact on the territory. Research limits: The T-MB project is still in the evaluation phase. It was not possible to access all the data necessary for either a detailed evaluation of the managerial implications or for the LCA analysis. Practical implications: Identification of key dimensions and best practices for the implementation of sustainable cable car mobility projects. Originality of the paper: The use of LCA analysis for the calculation of the environmental impact of cable care structures is innovative and it is one of the first studies in the field.