Consumption Of Natural Resources Research Articles

Application of Circular Economy Principles to Architectural Design: A Case Study of Serbia

The circular economy (CE), as an antidote to the ubiquitous and dominant global economic concept characterized by the uncontrolled exploitation of natural resources and the flow of materials from producers to users to landfills, has become inevitable. The application of circular business models is especially needed in the building sector, as one of the main consumers of natural resources and energy, considerable polluters, and substantial producers of waste. Since architects are important participants in the process of designing and building structures, it is clear that circular principles should be incorporated into architectural design (AD) as well. This paper deals with the analysis of the degree of application of circular principles in AD in Serbia and the challenges and difficulties that architects face in this endeavor. The methods used in the research included an unstructured interview on the basic principles of CE, a case study of selected housing renovation projects in Niš, Serbia (as an illustration of the principles that deal with extending the life of buildings in the domestic environment), and a survey on the degree and importance of the application of the CE principles in AD among architects in Serbia. The case study results and survey results led to the outline of guidelines for future AD in accordance with CE principles and recommendations for creating a working environment for the architects that is more circular oriented.

Sustainable Off-Site Construction in Desert Environments: Zero-Energy Houses as Case Studies

The construction industry is one of the largest consumers of natural resources, and the building sector accounts for around 40% of energy consumption and CO2 emissions. To contribute to the need for more sustainable solutions, this research analyzed and highlighted the benefits of off-site construction, utilizing eleven zero-energy prefabricated houses from the Solar Decathlon Middle East competition as case studies. The study used construction data documented by the competition organizers, such as drawings, manuals, photos, and in-person observations during the assembly process. The comparative analysis focused on the construction categories, types of solutions, structural materials, façade types, and building materials. The case studies featured both heavy and lightweight construction and three types of off-site construction: panelized, volumetric, and hybrid. The hybrid construction was the most utilized since it combines the advantages of less intensive on-site work of the volumetric solutions with the transportation benefits of 2D elements. The designers justified their selection of timber as a structural material based on its low environmental impact. In addition, they enhanced the environmental benefits of off-site construction by selecting eco-friendly materials and solutions that increase the efficiency of the houses.

Energy transition, natural resource consumption and environmental degradation: The role of geopolitical risk in sustainable development

Global economic policymakers are under pressure from various environmental stakeholders to focus on sustainable development by adopting energy transition and lower fossil fuel consumption. The current study evaluates the complex relationship between energy transition, natural resource consumption, geopolitical risks and environmental degradation. For econometric investigation, we rely on empirical datasets from 1995 to 2021 and employ extensive econometric analysis. We further include economic growth and banking developments to comprehend the role of macroeconomic variables in environmental protection. Our empirical findings show that energy transition and banking developments ensure environmental sustainability. Natural resource consumption, geopolitical risk and economic growth cause environmental degradation. Furthermore, robustness checks validate long-run empirical findings. Our extensive empirical investigation allows us to propose fruitful policy suggestions to overcome environmental challenges.

How economic development promotes the sustainability targets? Role of natural resources utilization

Economic growth is essential to accomplishing sustainability goals. It is still being determined how natural resource consumption affects this connection. This study examines how natural resource exploitation links economic growth to sustainability goals. This research examines economic growth, natural resource use, and sustainability goals. We use the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) model to explore China from 2009 to 2021. The GMM model examines how natural resource exploitation affects sustainability metrics, including greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy uptake, and environmental quality. Technological advances, clean technology investment, and legislative frameworks also affect economic growth. This research illuminates the intricate link between economic growth, natural resource usage, and sustainability objectives. The findings emphasize the need for natural resource management for sustainable economic development and environmental protection. Understanding how natural resource consumption promotes sustainability may inform policy choices and assist in building solutions that boost economic growth while protecting the environment. This research adds empirical information on the relationship between China's economic development, natural resources, and sustainability objectives. This study helps policymakers, academics, and practitioners promote sustainable development and meet sustainability goals by explaining how natural resource consumption influences sustainability.

Analysis of polymeric compounds using a matrix of epoxy resin reinforced with sisal fibers for application as reinforcement of pieces of wood

Studies show that there is still a small number of researches related to the rehabilitation and recovery of wooden structures, because knowledge about rehabilitation techniques and reinforcement in wooden structural elements is still not widespread. The same does not happen when it comes to designing wooden structures, since designers rely on Technical Standards, deeper scientific research and vast literature. Therefore, the importance of more in-depth scientific research on the technique of reinforcing wooden structures through the application of polymeric composites reinforced with natural fibers is evident. Since, economically and environmentally, it is preferable to rehabilitate a structure than proceed with its demolition and reconstruction. Such an attitude would provide a reduction in the consumption of natural resources and less waste generation. The objective of this work is to experimentally analyze the mechanical performance of wooden parts reinforced by epoxy matrix polymeric composites and fabrics made with sisal fibers. In addition, the mechanical behavior of the types of proposed reinforcements are verified.

Intention-behavior gap in greener consumption among young Sri Lankan consumers

In today’s world, we heavily rely on natural resources for activities, business, and survival. We are consuming resources at an unsustainable rate. However, our planet can only produce a finite number of resources and can only withstand a certain degree of greenhouse gas emissions. With the unbearable increase in natural resource consumption and green gas emissions, we are forced to experience various global challenges including climate change, desertification, lack of resources, loss of biodiversity, land degradation, etc. There is a burgeoning movement to adopt sustainable practices to mitigate these adverse consequences. Some companies have even developed sustainability programs, guidelines and plans to achieve sustainable goals [1]. Specifically, people are moving towards green consumption. As a result, studies on green consumption have emerged as a significant new frontier over the past few years attracting attention from both academics and professionals.

Experimental Investigation on Ternary Blended Recycled Aggregate Concrete Using Glass Fibers

The demand for sustainable construction materials has driven the exploration of various innovative approaches to enhance the properties of concrete for reducing its environmental impact. The present study examines the effects of incorporating recycled concrete aggregate (RCA), slag cement, alccofine, and glass fibers into concrete mixtures. In the present study, it has been observed that recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) exhibits inferior properties, including higher water absorption and poorer performance, when compared to natural coarse aggregate. Various replacement levels of RCA were utilized in this study to assess its impact on concrete performance. Alccofine, a supplementary cementitious material, is used to partially replace the binding material. Additionally, glass fibers were added to enhance the flexural and tensile behavior of the concrete. The concrete mixtures were designed to meet the required strength and durability specifications. A comprehensive testing program was conducted to evaluate the fresh and hardened properties of the concrete. A slump cone test was performed for assessing the workability of fresh concrete. For hardened concrete, compressive strength, flexural strength, and split tensile strength are evaluated. The results demonstrated that incorporating RCA, slag cement, alccofine, and glass fibers into the concrete mixtures improved mechanical properties. The use of RCA led to a reduction in natural resource consumption, namely natural coarse aggregate in concrete. On the other hand, the generated construction and demolition (C&D) waste is used effectively. Portland slag cement (PSC) and alccofine (A) improved the long-term strength of concrete. The addition of glass fibers significantly enhanced the tensile and flexural performance of the concrete, resulting in improved crack resistance and overall performance. This study introduces a novel concept by exploring the potential utilization of recycled concrete aggregate, slag cement, alccofine, and glass fibers in combination as sustainable and high-performance components in concrete mixtures. Previous research has not extensively studied this combination of materials, making it a unique and innovative approach. These findings contribute to the development of eco-friendly construction practices and provide insights for engineers, researchers, and practitioners aiming to incorporate recycled materials and supplementary cementitious materials into concrete construction.

Performance of slag based recycled coarse aggregate concrete with steel fibers

Designers may lessen the impact of concrete on the environment while yet ensuring enhanced performance and higher durability by using slag cement, which has proven long-term performance advantages. However, in actual practice, concrete constructions use slag to replace OPC up to 30 to 50 percent of the time, depending on the uses. By using M sand in place of river sand, this study shows differences in the strength and durability parameters of concrete manufactured using 100% with slag cement. Mechanical and durability study was made on replacement of natural coarse aggregates (NCA) with 30, 45 and 60% of recycled coarse aggregates (RCA); Based on the study optimum percentage of recycled aggregates for slag based concrete is 45%. Thus to study effect of fiber on concrete 45% of natural aggregates replaced by recycled aggregates with and without Nano silica.This reduces the consumption of natural resources and adds some additional benefits from a structural and financial standpoint. Steel fibers are added at a rate of between 0.5, 1 and 1.5 percent by volume of cement to give it strength. In order to obtain the optimum percentage of steel fibres using slag cement, concrete grades M20, M25, M30 and M35 were used. Testing techniques such as the compression test, flexural test, spill tensile test, Rapid Chloride penetration test used to assess properties recycled aggregate concrete and also performed the life cycle assessment. From the experimental study 1% Steel fibers was optimum for both with and without Nano silica.

Utilisation of Ceramic Stoneware Tile Waste as Recycled Aggregate in Concrete

The construction industry has a significant environmental impact and concrete production is responsible for a large part of CO2 emissions and energy consumption. This study focused on the reutilisation of a specific type of tiles ceramic waste (TCW), composed only of stoneware and porcelain stoneware tiles, hereafter referred to as ceramic stoneware (CS), as recycled aggregate in concrete. Natural limestone and CS aggregates (sand and gravel) were characterised (particle size distribution, water absorption, resistance to wear, density and X-ray diffraction analyses) and recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) was prepared by replacing 20, 50 and 100 vol.% of sand and gravel, separately. Concrete workability generally improved with CW addition, especially when replacing natural gravel. Although the compressive strengths of the concrete specimens prepared with recycled sand were slightly lower than those of the reference specimens, similar or better results were recorded with the recycled CS gravel. In consonance, the RAC developed with recycled gravel obtained lower water penetration depths than the reference concrete. No significant variation in tensile strength was observed when varying CS content (values within the 2.33–2.65 MPa range). The study contributes to sustainable construction practices and circular economy by promoting the valorisation and reutilisation of industrial waste and reducing the consumption of natural resources.

The importance of public sector size and resources volatility in carbon emissions: Empirical evidence from OECD countries

Natural resources and environmental depletion are significant concerns for both developing and developed nations. Those challenges not only surge environmental risks but also result in extensive financial damages, leading to the provision of substantial funds each year for carbon mitigation strategies. The present study aims to inspect the impact of public sector size and natural resource volatility on environmental depletion by evaluating panel data from twenty OECD member countries. Based on data availability, the selected time frame for analysis is 1995–2021. The study employs the Augmented Mean Group (AMG) approach to address potential biases arising from cross-sectional dependence (CD) and slope heterogeneity. The findings depicted a positive relationship between public sector size, natural resource volatility, and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in selected OECD countries. The results underscore that an increased share of government expenditures and high natural resource volatility contribute to carbon emissions. These outcomes highlight the need to condemn the highly volatile consumption of natural resources to bring stability in the resources markets and also condemn irresponsible financing of environmentally unfriendly projects for the sake of a healthier environment. The study proposed that governments should pay attention to prioritizing environmental quality when utilizing natural resources or allocating funds across various sectors.

Experimental Study on Compressive Strength of Magnesium Oxychloride Cement Mortar Using Stone Crushed Powder by Varying Molar Ratio

Abstract: One of the major consumers of natural resources and a significant contributor to CO2 emissions is the construction sector. The manufacture of cement and building materials was found to be the source of the highest greenhouse gas emissions. In order to lessen the damaging effects of the building industry on the environment, this paper seeks to determine whether magnesium oxychloride cement (MOC) may be used as a mortar substitute for regular Portland cement. A thorough review of the literature, an experimental investigation, and an internal structure analysis based on the ideal molar ratio are all part of the research technique. In this study, MOC cement with powdered stone is experimentally investigated utilizing various molar ratios with phases 3 and 5. In the first set of results usage of unheated magnesium oxide powder, SEM image shown some amount of MgO left inactive and compressive strength depicted lower values. Eventually, a modification was implemented in order to boost compressive strength. In order to improve the reaction or gel formation that would boost the compressive strength, the MgO powder was heated and added to the cement. Different molar ratios produced various compressive strength values in the mortar cubes. Two ideal molar ratios are chosen from each phase, SEM and EDXA are used to analyse the micro structure. The MgO6 octahedral crystal structures of Phases 3 and 5 are visible in the SEM pictures as double and tripple ribbons of shared edges with water molecules and chloride anions. The percentage of elemental weight in the specimens is displayed by EDXA.

Assessing the nexus between natural resource consumption and urban sprawl: Empirical evidence from 288 cities in China

With the rapid advancement of urbanization in China and the sharp increase in natural resources consumption, it is crucial to quantitatively study the relationship between land resources utilization and energy consumption. This paper uses the panel data at the city level from 2004 to 2019 to analyze the impact of low-density expansion of land resources on power consumption and its internal mechanism. A significant U-shaped relationship exists between urban sprawl and power consumption, which passes a variety of robustness tests. Moreover, geographical indicators are selected as instrumental variables to deal with potential endogeneity. Heterogeneity analysis shows that there are differences in the impact of urban sprawl on electricity resources for different urban locations, population sizes, sprawl characteristics, and electricity consumption types. Further mechanism analysis shows that urban sprawl affects electricity consumption by affecting variables such as real estate investment and Internet development. The conclusions of this paper bridge the conflicting viewpoints of existing research and provide empirical evidence for the utilization of land resources and the formulation of electricity regulation policies in various regions of China.

Characteristics of Oil Palm Fruit Ash as Binder in Asphaltic Concrete

In order to reduce energy and natural resource consumption during road construction, the sustainability concept needs to be seriously addressed. Oil Palm Fruit Ash (OPFA) is one of the by-products of palm oil production that are typically disposed of in landfills as a result of the growing number of plantations in Malaysia, particularly in Sarawak. Due to the fact that OPFA is known as biomass with pozzolanic qualities (siliceous material), this study was carried out to examine the applicability of OPFA with varying concentrations (0% - 40%) by weight as a modifier in bitumen grade 60/70. Based on the results of the laboratory testing, it was discovered that the modified bitumen provided greater resistance to rutting, temperature, and skid resistance on the bituminous mixture (AC20) compared to the control sample. The 40% OPFA modified samples had the greatest resilient modulus test value, measuring 10992 MPa at 25 °C and 2936 MPa at 40 °C, respectively. In addition, the combination containing 40% OPFA produced the lowest deformation value in the dynamic creep test, which was only 0.20mm, while producing 83.63 skid numbers in the skid resistance test. OPFA can be utilized as a binder modifier to improve the performance of bituminous mixture, which indirectly supports the sustainable development goals (SDGs) concept in road construction, as this study conclusively demonstrated.

Green economic development by increasing efficiency of natural resource consumption

The present study aims to assess the implications of fossil fuels resource efficiency on sustainable development across two distinct cohorts comprising 26 oil-importing economies and 19 oil-exporting economies, spanning the time period from 2000 to 2020. Employing empirical estimations through the Pooled Mean Group (PMG) technique, the research reveals that the sustainable development index in oil-exporting countries exhibits higher sensitivity to the efficiency of fossil fuels resources and the poverty rate, compared to oil-importing nations. Moreover, the impact of carbon dioxide emissions on the sustainable development index is notably more pronounced in oil-importing countries than in their oil-exporting counterparts. Additionally, the sustainable development index in oil-exporting economies demonstrates heightened sensitivity to temperature fluctuations, exceeding that observed in oil-importing nations. In pursuit of fossil fuels resources efficiency and sustainable development, the implementation of strategic measures such as carbon taxation, Fintech-driven initiatives, and the integration of green cryptocurrencies should be encouraged in both country groups.

Decarbonization Strategies in the UAE Built Environment: An Evidence-Based Analysis Using COP26 and COP27 Recommendations

The urgency of addressing climate change is increasingly evident through the rise in devastating natural disasters and significant shifts in global temperatures. With the urbanization of rural landscapes to accommodate population growth, the built environment has emerged as a major contributor to climate change, accounting for approximately 40% of natural resource consumption and carbon emissions. In pursuit of tackling climate challenges, countries have united under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to develop strategies for climate action and adaptation, through the Conference of the Parties (COP). The UAE has been an active member of the COP and has been at the forefront of implementing decarbonization strategies. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the decarbonization recommendations presented during COP26 and COP27, specifically focusing on the built environment sector. The primary objective is to highlight how recommendations were effectively incorporated into the UAE’s built environment sector, employing a case study approach further highlighting the specific implementation strategies adopted in the G+2 SEE Institute building while demonstrating how COP26, COP27, and the UAE’s National Climate Change Plan 2017–2050 recommendations were translated into practical measures. The study places particular emphasis on the areas of energy, water and waste management, investigating how these strategies were integrated to promote decarbonization efforts. By examining the G+2 SEE Institute building case, this research attempts to provide valuable insights on aligning built environment practices with climate change mitigation objectives. The planning of the building structure employed a systems thinking approach, while assessments were conducted to identify materials and designs that would enable the building to achieve net-zero status. Real-time data analysis was employed for comprehensive analysis. The findings of this study will contribute to the body of knowledge on sustainable construction practices and serve as a guide for stakeholders, including developers, policymakers, and practitioners, in adopting effective strategies in reducing carbon emissions and fostering environmental sustainability in line with the Paris Agreement.

Effect of polypropylene fiber on frost resistance and carbonation resistance of manufactured sand concrete

Mixing fiber into manufactured sand to prepare concrete can effectively reduce the consumption of natural sand resources, improve concrete performance, improve the life of the whole building structure, and bring considerable environmental and economic benefits. To better apply it to engineering practice, this research studied the effect of polypropylene fiber (PPF) on the frost and carbonation resistance of manufactured sand concrete (MSC). In this research, PPF with different volume content (0.8%,1.0%,1.2%)and length(6 mm,12 mm,18 mm) are incorporated into (MSC). Through the design of compressive strength test, splitting tensile strength test, rapid freeze–thaw test, and carbonation test to analyze and evaluate strength, dynamic elastic modulus, and carbonation depth of MSC by Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The experimental findings demonstrated that PPF can effectively improve the compressive strength and splitting tensile strength of MSC. Compared with the control group (natural-sand concrete, NC), the compressive strength increased by 18.18% at most and 1.72% at least, and the splitting tensile strength increased by 32.14% at most and 17.86% at least. when the volume content of PPF is 1.0%, the damage of compressive strength and splitting tensile strength of MSC is the lowest, and the frost resistance is the best. The carbonation depth is the lowest (1.94 mm) when the volume content of PPF is 1.0% and the length is 12 mm, and compared with NC, the flexural strength and dynamic elastic modulus of MSC were increased by 4.65% and 16.3%, respectively. Through XRD and SEM analysis, the incorporation of PPF with moderate volume content can slow down the carbonation reaction of MSC and improve the carbonation resistance of MSC. From RSM analysis, the effect of PPF on the frost resistance of MSC is volume content > length; the effect of PPF on the carbonation resistance of MSC is length > volume content. The optimized prediction results are consistent with the analysis results: the incorporation of PPF can improve the durability of MSC, reaching or even exceeding NC specimens, which provides a theoretical basis for the promotion of PMSC in engineering. When the volume content of PPF is 1.0 % and the length is about 12 mm, the frost resistance and carbonation resistance of MSC are the best.

A Review on Durability of Foam Concrete

Foam concrete is a promising material in building and construction applications, providing such outstanding properties as high specific strength, excellent thermal insulation, and effective acoustic absorption in human-inhabited buildings. However, because the porosity and permeable water absorption properties of foam concrete are significantly higher, its durability is often not comparable to that of ordinary concrete, and so the durability of foam concrete requires significant attention during the life cycle of building applications. Durable materials can greatly reduce the environmental impact of waste from maintenance and replacement and the consumption of natural resources resulting from the production of repair and replacement materials. After hardening, the durability of foam concrete includes freeze-thaw cycle resistance, elevated temperature resistance, carbonation resistance, efflorescence resistance, sulfate resistance, chloride resistance, alkali-silica reaction, and so on. This paper reviews articles on the durability of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) foam concrete, geopolymer foam concrete (GFC), magnesium phosphate cement (MPC) foam concrete, sulphoaluminate cement (SAC) foam concrete, and limestone calcined clay cement (LC3) foam concrete and compares their durability to provide a reference for the life cycle design and service life estimation of foam concrete members.

Comprehensive Evaluation of Green Bridge Construction Based on a Game Theory–Radar Chart Combination

The construction of large bridges requires significant natural resource consumption and causes widespread environmental damage, violating the concept of sustainable development. Therefore, it is necessary to build a comprehensive evaluation system for green construction. This paper took a bridge as a research object to establish a green construction evaluation index system based on GB/T 50640-2010, the “Green Construction Evaluation Standard for Construction Projects”. A combined game theory–radar chart method was adopted to evaluate the level of green construction for five construction schemes. The results were Scheme II > Scheme IV > Scheme III > Scheme I > Scheme V, where Scheme II was the best. The evaluations in this paper were consistent with those obtained by the G1-TOPSIS method; however, a combined-assignment method was used to avoid the one-sidedness of single-assignment, and to make the evaluations more objective.

How do the exploitation of natural resources and fiscal policy affect green growth? Moderating role of ecological governance in G7 countries

Natural resource consumption fulfil the necessities of any society. The way these resources are extracted matters for the economy and environmental quality. Likewise, increasing resource consumption and fiscal policies direct the green economic recovery. Green growth (GG), or environmentally adjusted multifactor productivity growth, is imperative to track sustainable economic performance. Therefore, this study explores the relevance of natural resources, fiscal policy, R&D spending, and ecological governance in deriving the GG of G7 countries from 1990 to 2020. Using Methods of Moments Quantiles, the results exhibit that fiscal policy, R&D spending, and ecological governance contribute to GG, while natural resources produce inhibitory effects. The positive influence of fiscal policy and ecological governance (R&D spending) is higher at lower (higher) quantiles. Inhibitory effects of natural resources are higher at lower quantiles and vice versa. However, the negative impact of natural resources is neutralised with the integration of ecological governance. This proposition is valued using the moderation term of both variables. Similarly, results are endorsed using alternative estimators addressing cross-sectional dependency and slope heterogeneity and offering valuable recommendations.

Effect of waste brick powder rich in SiO2 on the physical and mechanical properties of Portland cement concrete containing coarse recycled asphalt pavement aggregates (RAP)

Promoting sustainable development involves minimizing the consumption of natural resources, including aggregates, without compromising the performance of concrete. In Algeria, the rapid expansion of road projects results in substantial quantities of Recycled Asphalt Pavement (RAP) generated through milling and excavation of existing bituminous roads. To enhance the reuse of RAP aggregates in concrete, it is well-established that incorporating cement with silica-rich mineral additives can reduce energy consumption and enhance concrete efficiency and performance. This study focuses on investigating the potential use of waste brick powder (WBP) as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to enhance the physical and mechanical properties of concrete containing coarse RAP aggregates. The substitution levels of WBP were set at 0%, 5%, and 15%, respectively, in blends comprising 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% RAP aggregates. Various tests were conducted, including slump tests, compression strength analysis, ultrasonic velocity measurements, dynamic elastic modulus assessments, water permeability evaluations, and examination through Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The results indicate that blends containing 5% WBP demonstrate improved mechanical and physical properties compared to other blends. However, microstructural and elemental analyses reveal that the enhancement in Interfacial Transition Zone (ITZ) properties is not significant. It was also observed that water absorption decreased with increasing RAP content. Generally, a coarse RAP content of up to 50% proves to be suitable for achieving satisfactory performance in concrete.