Green finance and the synergistic effects of pollution and carbon emission reduction: evidence from China

Abstract A thorough understanding of soot particle formation and evolution during combustion is essential for improving energy efficiency and reducing pollutant emissions. In this study, we constructed an integrated diagnostic method combinding the two separate pulses with traditional two-color LII and particle size analysis models, enabling simultaneous acquisition of multiple parameters (including initial temperature T0, peak temperature TM, absorption function Em, volume fraction fv, and primary particle size Dp). This system has high spatial and temporal resolution, allowing for detailed characterization of soot dynamics within diffusion flames. The results demonstrate LII can detect particles in the middle and top regions of flame, the parameters of which exhibit significant spatial non-uniformities and complex interdependencies. It is found that the particles get more and more mature during the particles evolving upwards due to carbonization, and therefore show increasing absorption. At the same time, the volume fraction and size of particles decrease due to oxidation. In addition, the volume fraction and size of particles are larger at the edges of flame, which is attributed to the more easily happening nucleation and aggregation processes An overall physical picture about the generation and evolution of the soot particles is finally provided based on the distributions of those multiple parameters. This study validates the effectiveness of SP-2D-2C-LII for multi-parameter coupling analysis and spatially resolved diagnosis, offering valuable insights into soot particles evolution mechanisms and supporting the optimization of combustion and emission control strategies.

ABSTRACT To promote the development of renewable energy, China re‐implemented the Chinese Certified Emission Reduction (CCER) policy in 2023. This study explores certificated CO 2 and air pollutants (i.e., NO x , SO 2 and particulate matter (PM)) emissions reductions from China's solar thermal power (STP) industry at national scale and conducts the comprehensive cost‐benefit analysis with consideration of CCER policy. We find that: (1) generally, STP‐related emissions reductions and associated benefits from CCER revenue have followed and will continue to present an upward tendency; however, the STP industry would turn to be not economic feasible in 2025, due to the renewable energy subsidies cancellation. (2) From a spatial perspective, STP‐related emissions reductions are highly concentrated in the northwest region. (3) Among species, NO x makes the largest contribution to STP‐related air pollutants emissions reductions and the associated co‐benefits, while PM makes the least. (4) As for policy implication, CCER policy should be carefully designed and dynamically adjusted together with other additional policies, and thus further facilitates the development of the STP industry.

Natural hydrogen has emerged globally as a promising natural resource in the energy transition. In the face of climate change and the urgency to diversify energy sources to reduce pollutant emissions, hydrogen emerges as a viable alternative due to its high mass energy density. This work focuses on the prospecting of naturally occurring hydrogen and aims to review the main concepts and fundamentals related to this emerging resource, establishing correlations with the petroleum system to promote knowledge transfer between the two systems. Furthermore, it proposes a workflow to investigate natural hydrogen. Hydrogen prospecting begins with the interpretation of existing geochemical data, seismic data, multiphysics data, and gamma spectrometry, as well as the recognition of subcircular depressions, when applicable, to select targets for evaluation. In the field, static and dynamic measurements of hydrogen exudations should be conducted. The identification of the active hydrogen system involves studying the same elements as the petroleum system, such as generation, which is defined through data and geological maps analysis to trace the rocks and processes associated with hydrogen generation; migration, which aims to understand the preferential pathways taken by the gas, primarily characterized by the interpretation of the structural framework, with particular attention to deep faults; reservoir, which should exhibit good perm-porous properties, characterized based on field samples or analogs; and trap, with seismic recognition of the geometry and sealing layers. In summary, applying knowledge derived from hydrocarbon exploration can facilitate advancements in hydrogen prospecting techniques, contributing to the development of more precise and specific models for this potential resource.

Dogs are dynamic contributors to the indoor environment, yet their impact on air quality remains largely unexplored, warranting a comprehensive assessment of their pollutant emissions. This study characterized chemical, particulate, and microbial emissions from small and big dogs. Big dogs emitted CO2, NH3, fungi, and bacteria at considerably higher rates than small dogs, whereas their emissions of 1-10 μm particles were similar. With ozone present, all dogs contributed to the formation of nanocluster aerosols (1-3 nm) and ozonized volatile organic compound (VOC) products, likely from human skin oil transfer through petting. With ozone present, nanocluster aerosols (1-3 nm) were observed during dog experiments, likely reflecting ozone reactions with human-derived skin lipids transferred onto dog fur. Relative to a seated adult, big dogs emitted less ozonized products, comparable CO2 and NH3, more >5 μm coarse particles (fewer 2-5 μm particles), 2-4× more bacteria and fungi, and showed compound-specific differences in VOCs: while some species exhibited a strongly elevated dog-to-human ratio (with one up to 15×), others were not pronounced when dogs were present. Our findings highlight dogs as significant indoor emission sources and contributors to indoor air chemistry and microbial transport, with implications for air quality and exposure assessment.

Sustainability in Brazilian public administration has been strengthened by legal frameworks that guide the conscious management of resources, such as Law No. 12.305/2010, which establishes the National Solid Waste Policy, and Law No. 14.133/2021, which sets sustainability criteria for public procurement. In this context, the Sustainable Logistics Management Plan emerges as an essential instrument to guide sustainable practices in public bodies, including higher education institutions. Based on its categories, such as reduction of water and energy consumption, waste management, and promotion of conscious consumption, this research conducts a systematic literature review to identify and categorize sustainable practices adopted by higher education institutions. Eighteen articles published between 2019 and 2025 were analyzed, considering geographic coverage, research types, and the diversity of sustainable practices developed. The results indicate a predominance of the conscious consumption promotion category, with a higher frequency of management and education practices compared to effective practices for reducing waste, pollutant emissions, consumption materials, water, and energy.

Heterogeneous firm export, energy efficiency and pollution emissions: theory and evidence

Real-time monitoring and control of cooking fumes: Implementation strategies for school kitchens.

Soft computing techniques for atmospheric pollution and traffic emission prediction

Synergistic control of greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions from ships in global container ports

Superconducting fault current limiters (SFCL) are protective devices that limit the current in power lines when it suddenly increases above a certain safe level as a consequence of a fault. This element is connected in series with the line and has a null impedance when the line current is below the safe value (limit current) but significative increase the impedance when the line current tries to surpass this value. The variance of impedance is only due to the internal state of superconductors, without the participation of any mechanical element. Obviously, there are not any similar elements manufactured with conventional technology. There are two basic types of SFCL: those that present a resistive impedance (R-SFCL) after transition, and those which present an inductive impedance (I-SFCL). The authors are working on an SFCL concept that includes both mechanisms operating interactively. In this work, the combined transition mechanism is explained, the prototype under study is presented, and some theoretical and experimental results are shown. Key words. Superconductor, Fault current limiter, SFCL

The use of renewable hydrogen is becoming increasingly relevance as a sustainable alternative to conventional energy sources, particularly in the transport and industrial sectors. One of its main advantages is that it enables energy use without generating direct pollutant emissions, thus contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases emissions and the mitigation of climate change. Green hydrogen in these sectors is typically produced through different electrolysis technologies. These processes are often powered by renewable energy sources—such as solar or wind—which are inherently variable over time. This paper presents a comprehensive comparison of the main electrolysis technologies, including alkaline electrolysis (ALKEL), proton exchange membrane electrolysis (PEMWEL), and anion exchange membrane electrolysis (AEMWEL). It analyzes their respective advantages, limitations, efficiency levels, response times, and adaptability to intermittent energy supplies. The study also explores the technical challenges associated with integrating each technology with renewable power sources, emphasizing key factors to consider when selecting the most suitable method. It is important to note that this analysis does not take cost into account, focusing instead on technical parameters and operational performance. The objective is to provide insights that support informed decision-making for the deployment of hydrogen technologies within sustainable energy systems. Key words. Renewable Hydrogen, electrolysis, AEMWEL, PEMWEL, AWEL.

High-resolution multi-species pollutant emission measurement by photoacoustic technique of NH3–H2 combustion in a turbulent swirl burner

Pollutant emission reductions contributed to reducing nitrate level in regional-scale groundwater

Spatio-temporal distribution of AOD and its response to regional energy consumption and air pollution factors in China.

Super capacitors (SCs) are significant because of their unique characteristics, which include long cycle life, high strength, and environmental friendliness. SCs use electrode substances with high specific surface area and thinner dielectrics. Referring to the energy storage mechanism, all kinds of SCs were reviewed in this review paper; a quick synopsis of the materials and technology used for SCs is provided. Materials such as conducting polymers, carbon materials, metal oxides, and their composites are the main focus. The performance of the composites was evaluated using metrics such as energy, cycle performance, power capacitance, and rate capability, which also provides information on the electrolyte materials. To precisely appraise the state of Charge (SoC) in the super SCs cell module, its identical model o is used. It is expected that this model will accurately capture the features of the cell module, specifically its standing-related self-discharge behavior, and the outcomes of parameter identification directly impact its accuracy. Engine downsizing is a result of the requirement to increase fuel efficiency and lower CO2 and other hazardous pollutant emissions from internal combustion engine cars. However, smaller turbocharged engines have a relatively poor torque capability at low engine speeds. To solve this issue, an electrical torque boost based on SCs may be used to help recover energy during regenerative braking as well as during acceleration and gear changes.

ABSTRACT This paper proposes a partition-based speed guidance strategy for mixed traffic of Human-driven Vehicles (HVs) and Connected Automated Vehicles (CAVs) at signalized intersections. To synergistically optimize efficiency, comfort, safety and emissions, a segmented jerk model is established based on the platoon's Effective Green Time (EGT). Four guidance schemes are formulated and validated via VISSIM simulations under various Market Penetration Rates (MPR). Results indicate significant improvements: the standard deviation of acceleration decreases by up to 14.7%, while queue time, delay, and stops are reduced by up to 86.7%, 87.5%, and 84.7%, respectively. Furthermore, fuel consumption drops by 17.8%, and pollutant emissions (CO, CO2, HC) decrease by up to 20.3%. The strategy successfully achieves multi-objective optimization while ensuring smooth driving.

Although renewable energy sources offer enormous potential to improve environmental sustainability, maximizing economic benefits inside microgrids requires resolving their intermittency and irregularity. A viable alternative is to combine energy storage with renewable energy technologies. This article introduced a energy management system for hybrid renewable power plants that includes fuel cells, wind turbines, solar cells, battery energy storage devices, and micro-turbines. Optimization problem is formulated as Hyper Learning Binary Dragonfly Algorithm (HLBDA) for optimizing economic benefits and with objectives of minimizing operating costs and pollutant gas emissions. Suggested model is compared with existing methods like Genetic Algorithms (GA), and Crayfish Optimization Algorithm (COA). Also, stochastic framework is considered suitable solution for achieving optimal operation point in microgrids to cope with uncertain parameters. According to the simulation results, suggested method proves reductions in overall system costs and pollutant gas emissions. The proposed system achieved significant superiority across all indicators. In the area of cost reduction, the algorithms demonstrated remarkable progress. The algorithms achieved significant improvements in cost reduction compared to genetic algorithm (GA). HLBDA algorithm achieved a 12.4% cost saving compared to GA, and the COA algorithm showed a 3.24% improvement in cost reduction. In the area of carbon emission reduction, the algorithms also showed significant progress: the HLBDA algorithm recorded the highest emission reduction rate at 9.54%, and the COA algorithm showed a 2.40% improvement in emission reduction.

Background: PM2.5 air pollution is a leading cause of disease and death. US air pollutant emissions have declined by 75% since passage of the Clean Air Act in 1970, but the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) continues to have elevated pollution levels and, in 2025, had the US’s 12th highest PM2.5 concentration. Steel mills and coke ovens are major point sources.Objective: To quantify deaths, adverse birth outcomes, and children’s IQ loss in the Pittsburgh MSA attributable to PM2.5 air pollution.Methods: Mean annual PM2.5 air pollution concentrations were obtained for each census tract in the Pittsburgh MSA from NASA’s satellite-based Socioeconomic Data and Applications Center map layers and linked with vital records obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Exposure–response functions from peer-reviewed literature and EPA’s BenMAP software were used to quantify deaths, adverse birth outcomes, and IQ loss attributable to PM2.5 pollution.Results: The mean annual PM2.5 concentration in the Pittsburgh MSA was 8.54 μg/m3. Concentrations across census tracts ranged from 5.74 to 15.90 μg/m3. Of 27,224 adult deaths in the Pittsburgh MSA in 2019, we estimate that between 3,085 and 3,467 (11.1%–12.5%) were attributable to PM2.5 pollution. We estimate that 229 premature births, 177 low-weight births, and 12 stillbirths could be attributed to prenatal PM2.5 exposure. Among the 24,604 children born in the Pittsburgh MSA in 2019, PM2.5 pollution was linked to the loss of 60,668 full-scale IQ points, resulting in estimated lifetime economic losses of $2.7 billion.Conclusion: In 2019, 11.1%–12.5% of adult deaths in the Pittsburgh MSA, more than 400 adverse birth outcomes, and widespread reductions in children’s IQ were attributable to PM2.5 air pollution. Public policies and strict enforcement that reduce pollutant emissions and improve air quality will improve the health of southwestern Pennsylvania residents, save lives, and be highly cost-effective.

<p><strong><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Background:</span></strong><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"> Air pollution significantly impacts global health, contributing to approximately 3.7 million premature deaths annually. Ahvaz, as one of the most polluted cities in the world, experiences severe air pollution due to urbanization, industrial expansion, and transportation. This study aims to identify pollution sources, evaluate their impact through a hybrid SWOT-AHP analysis, and propose innovative air quality management strategies based on global best practices. <strong>Methods:</strong> A combination of emission inventory analysis, geographic information system (GIS) mapping, and a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach was applied to assess key pollution sources. SWOT analysis was integrated with the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to prioritize effective interventions for air quality improvement. Comparative analysis was conducted with cities such as Beijing, New Delhi, and Los Angeles to benchmark pollution control measures. <strong>Results:</strong> Nitrogen oxides (NOx) were identified as the most emitted pollutants in central Ahvaz, reaching 392 tons annually. Other major pollutants included carbon monoxide (CO) (89 tons/year), suspended particles (87 tons/year), and hydrocarbons (34 tons/year). The Ramin Power Plant accounted for 54% of SO2 emissions, while oil industries contributed to 82% of total pollutants. The hybrid SWOT-AHP analysis ranked “Implementing an advanced air pollution monitoring system and smart traffic management” as the most effective strategy. Benchmarking with other global cities revealed that implementing low-emission zones and transitioning to cleaner fuels significantly reduced air pollution levels. The AHP analysis prioritized strategies as Smart Monitoring System (46.7%)</span><span lang="RU" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: RU; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">—</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">The most effective approach, emphasizing real-time pollution tracking and traffic optimization. Next Clean Fuel Transition (27.7%)</span><span lang="RU" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: RU; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">—</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Reducing emissions by shifting industries and vehicles to low-emission fuels. Low-Emission Zones (16.0%)</span><span lang="RU" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: RU; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">—</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Establishing restricted zones to control vehicular pollution. And Urban Green Infrastructure (9.5%)</span><span lang="RU" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: RU; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">—</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Expanding green spaces to enhance air quality. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> Strategic investments in pollution control technologies, combined with policy interventions such as emissions-based congestion pricing and green infrastructure expansion, are crucial for mitigating pollution in Ahvaz. The SWOT-AHP framework provided a structured approach to prioritizing actionable environmental management strategies based on feasibility and effectiveness.</span></p>