Results Of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Research Articles

Women and climate change in Vanuatu, Pacific Islands Region

While world leaders met in Egypt in 2022 for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of the Parties (COP 27) and danced around the need for critical global action on climate change, ni-Vanuatu (Vanuatu’s citizens) were dealing with its realities. Continuing sea level rises, more intense and frequent cyclones, flooding and landslides are regular occurrences in Vanuatu, challenging the population to adapt. These experiences are made more intense by the knowledge that ni-Vanuatu circumstances are the result of greenhouse gas emissions occurring elsewhere, in countries with higher gross domestic products (GDPs). In this paper, we focus on the experiences of women in Vanuatu to build a greater understanding of the impacts of climate change on women’s lives in one of the most disaster risk countries in the world. In focus groups conducted in 2021 with women in five communities across Vanuatu, women shared their experiences in dealing with climate change, the impacts on food production and food security and the gendered societal expectations that shape the complexity of women’s experiences. We note the way gender relations build on climate change impacts to shape the lives of Vanuatu women. In so doing we highlight the expressed desire of women to bring their experiences of climate change to the international community and to be part of the critical global conversation on climate change.

Perception of product sustainability: The case of processed tomatoes – A qualitative study in Germany

One way to slow down climate change is to help consumers to make more sustainable decisions. The food system accounts for up to one third of greenhouse gas emissions. To ensure consumers can make more sustainable food choices they need to have the necessary knowledge to do so. But consumer perception of the sustainability of food product characteristics might differ from results of greenhouse gas emissions or other environmental impacts in a life-cycle assessments of food products. The aspects of sustainability that are estimated incorrect by consumers need to be identified, so that the necessary knowledge to make more sustainable choices can be provided.To gain insights into consumer perception of the sustainability of food product characteristics, using the example of processed tomatoes, we conducted a qualitative study in Germany using focus group discussion. Ten young consumers, aged between 18 and 37, participated. Millennials and consumers from Generation Z were selected as they are considered to be crucial to a change towards more sustainable food production in the future. The focus group discussion was analyzed using the qualitative summarizing content analysis according to Mayring.The main findings indicate that consumers overestimate the sustainability of glass packaging and regional production. In contrast, consumers underestimate the emissions from heated greenhouses and the sustainability of composite boards and plastic packaging. The study shows that consumers are misinformed regarding sustainability of food product characteristics, such as production systems, packaging, and origin and that there is a need to better inform consumers, so that they have the knowledge to make more sustainable food choices.

Assessment of greenhouse gas emissions in dairy cows fed with five forage systems

Thirty Holstein cows were arranged in a randomised block design for 287 days and fed rations of five forage systems: Italian ryegrass in rotation with corn (S1), hybrid ryegrass mixtures with three legumes in rotation with corn (S2) or sorghum (S3), red clover with hybrid (S4), and Perennial (S5) ryegrass pastures. In systems S1, S2, and S3, the cows remained in the barn throughout the study period and were fed total mixed ration (TMR). In systems 4 and 5, the cows grazed in a pasture and were only fed at the barn when grazing was not possible. All rations were balanced with a low quantity of concentrate at a forage/concentrate ration of approximately 80/20. Feed intake, milk quantity, and milk quality test data were entered in the program CAP2’er® to calculate the test-related carbon footprint. Results, based on 287 days trial, expressed as grams of CO2 equivalent per kilogram of fat and protein corrected milk (FPCM), were 724 (S1), 701 (S2), 764 (S3), 507 (S4), and 528 (S5). Actually, the lower results in S4 and S5 than results for S1, S2 and S3 seem more related to the inclusion of the carbon sequestration and land-use change issues than more inputs/more but not enough milk production. When soybean meal is imported, the findings highlight that soybean meal emission factor due to land use change (LUC) strongly affected CO2 equivalent emissions in systems S1, S2 and S3 where 670, 625 and 628 kilograms of soybean meal were consumed by cows in the trial. Highlights The higher productivity of double-cropping systems does not compensate for the higher amount of greenhouse gases that they emit, measured as CO2-equivalent emissions per kilogram of FPCM. Pasture-based systems emit lower quantities of greenhouse gases per kilogram of FPCM, but their milk yield is lower than that of more intensive systems. Emission factors differ considerably due to differences in soil use. The result of greenhouse gas emissions from the system will largely depend on how these emission factors are analysed.

Forecasting greenhouse gas emissions with the new information priority generalized accumulative grey model

Air pollution and other environmental problems caused by excessive emissions of greenhouse gases have become a comprehensive problem requiring joint global treatment. To consider the characteristics of different regions and different countries in terms of greenhouse gas emissions for accurate prediction, a new information priority generalized accumulative grey model (NIPGAGM(1,1,k)) is proposed. The new model maintains the structure of the traditional grey model and the basic result characteristics of its features. This research further deduces the calculation formulas of the model's time response sequence and parameter estimation. Furthermore, an optimization model is established to search the parameters using a detailed optimization algorithm. The optimization value of the new model is determined by the intelligent optimization algorithm. Then, the new model is applied to the greenhouse gas emission prediction of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states. The numerical results are compared with those of existing models. Finally, according to the forecast results of greenhouse gas emissions in these regions, reasonable suggestions for clean energy production are proposed.

Analysis of Greenhouse Gas Emissions for Carbonated Soft Drinks Using LCA Methodology

Objectives:In accordance with the concern of global warming problem, many companies in Korea are striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in accordance with consumer awareness. Many studies have been reported for various products; however it is difficult to find carbonated soft drinks in Korea. The purpose of this study is to the impact of the greenhouse gas emissions, especially carbonated soft drinks in Korea.Methods:Calculation method of the greenhouse gas emissions followed “Guidelines for Carbon Footprint of Products” used in Korean Carbon Footprint Labeling. It was developed based on international standards such as ISO 14040 series. Life cycle of carbonated soft drinks was considered as a pre-manufacturing stage, manufacturing stage, distribution and disposal stage. Use stage of the product was excluded.Results and Discussion:This study shows that the package types and amounts for pre-manufacturing, manufacturing and disposal steps of carbonated soft drinks (the unit contents: 500 mL/unit, 1.5 L/unit), and also shows the results of greenhouse gas emissions. From the results, the pre-manufacturing stage of PET bottle manufacturing is the first contributor that occupy above 60% of greenhouse gas emissions. For reducing carbon emissions, low carbon manufacturing techniques for PET bottle are important. Sensitivity analysis was performed for PET bottle manufacturing, cap manufacturing and waste plastic disposal including site data and assumptions made. The sensitivity of each item was less than 7%.Conclusions:In conclusion, this study shows that the pre-manufacturing step of PET bottle and cap production have very significant impact on the greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore lightweight packages and usage of recycled plastics would be main techniques for reducing greenhouse gas emissions of carbonated soft drinks. From this study, the increment of product’s carbon footprint certification would be used as an effective policy instrument for achieving reduction goals of Korea Government. And also it could be used to spread the culture of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

A Multi-Objective Optimization of Energy, Economic, and Carbon Emission in a Production Model under Sustainable Supply Chain Management

Nowadays, many industries are focusing on automation in manufacturing for high production and good quality to meet the needs of customers in a short period of time. This trend has produced a forward shift in technology in the form of advancement, which ultimately increases energy demand. For that reason, researchers have started working on sustainable development associated with cleaner-energy policies to avoid increasing energy consumption for enhanced manufacturing technology in developed countries. The other important issue affecting our world is global warming, which is the result of greenhouse gas emissions. That is the reason, renewable energies like solar energy have dramatically increased during recent years to compensate for the energy demand and reduced carbon footprint for cleaner production. This paper considers a supply chain management of automobile part manufacturing industry with suppliers to optimize the production quantity with multiple objectives i.e., minimizing the total cost of production including minimum quantity lubrication is a first objective, reduction of the carbon footprint is the second, and minimizing the cost of energy considering renewable energy is the last objective. This study considers a situation, where imperfect quality items are managed and controlled by the suppliers as outsourcing operations. A weighted goal programming methodology is utilized to solve the proposed mathematical model including sustainable suppliers. Sensitivity analysis of the model is performed for different scenarios with respect to the energy utilization. The optimal result of minimum production cost and carbon emissions is the evidence of successful pragmatic application in automobile industry. The results validate the model to provide the basis for sustainability in supply chain environment considering manufacturer and suppliers.

Country-Level Life Cycle Assessment of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Liquefied Natural Gas Trade for Electricity Generation

In the determination of the net impact of liquefied natural gas (LNG) on greenhouse gas emissions, life cycle assessments (LCA) of electricity generation have yet to combine the effects of transport distances between exporting and importing countries, country-level infrastructure in importing countries, and the fuel sources displaced in importing countries. To address this, we conduct a LCA of electricity generated from LNG export from British Columbia, Canada with a three-step approach: (1) a review of viable electricity generation markets for LNG, (2) the development of results for greenhouse gas emissions that account for transport to importing nations as well as the infrastructure required for power generation and delivery, and (3) emissions displacement scenarios to test assumptions about what electricity is being displaced in the importing nation. Results show that while the ultimate magnitude of the greenhouse gas emissions associated with natural gas production systems is still unknown, life cycle greenhouse gas emissions depend on country-level infrastructure (specifically, the efficiency of the generation fleet, transmission and distribution losses and LNG ocean transport distances) as well as the assumptions on what is displaced in the domestic electricity generation mix. Exogenous events such as the Fukushima nuclear disaster have unanticipated effects on the emissions displacement results. We highlight national regulations, environmental policies, and multilateral agreements that could play a role in mitigating emissions.

THE IMPACT OF OCCUPANT BEHAVIOUR ON RESIDENTIAL GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS REDUCTION

In 2011–12, greenhouse gas emissions from the Australian residential sector were 101.6 Mt and are expected to grow by 38% by 2050. In order to reduce these emissions, much emphasis has been placed on increasing the energy efficiency of buildings and appliances. Occupant behaviour, however, is probably the single most significant factor which determines energy use and emissions. This paper describes research undertaken to rank the most common occupant behaviours, based upon their impact on greenhouse gas emissions associated with residential energy use, in an architect-designed house in Australia. The occupant behaviours investigated were changing: the heating and cooling temperature set points, window openings, external blind use and lighting use. Simulations were carried out using Primero and EnergyPlus software. Based on the simulation results of greenhouse gas emissions, the following ranking of overall influence (from most influential to the least) has been determined: external blind use was one of the most effective measures to reduce emissions. Cooling set point temperature was similarly important with the magnitude of impact depending on the set point e.g. a 2°C increase had an impact comparable to the use of external blinds. The impact of the heating set point temperature was also dependent on the set point and overall slightly lower compared to the cooling set point temperature. Lighting use was the least influential parameter in the context of this study.

Influence of renewable energy sources on climate change mitigation in Serbia

Global discussion on climate change and strengthening environmental protection has been launched, especially in the last three decades. As climate change is a result of greenhouse gas emissions, different mechanisms were introduced in order to reduce this impact, surely the most significant was set by the Kyoto Protocol. The Republic of Serbia considers a proper policy on environmental protection as one of its priorities. As the switch from traditional to renewable energy sources carries valuable improvements in environmental protection and economic efficacy, the Government encourages the use of renewable energy sources for the production of energy. This paper provides analysis of the potential of renewable energy sources in the Republic of Serbia, carbon potential and their possible role in mitigation of climate changes. Results presented in the paper can be useful for the improvement of the strategic planning on the national level with the final aim to contribute to the increase in importance of use of renewable energy sources in that planning.

Climate change and health – what’s the problem?

The scientific consensus is that global warming is occurring and is largely the result of greenhouse gas emissions from human activity. This paper examines the health implications of global warming, the current socio-political attitudes towards action on climate change and highlight the health co-benefits of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, policy development for climate change and health should embrace health systems strengthening, commencing by incorporating climate change targets into Millennium Development Goal 7.

Greenhouse gas emissions (CO2, CH4, and N2O) from several perialpine and alpine hydropower reservoirs by diffusion and loss in turbines

We investigated greenhouse gas emissions (CO2, CH4, and N2O) from reservoirs located across an altitude gradient in Switzerland. These are the first results of greenhouse gas emissions from reservoirs at high elevations in the Alps. Depth profiles were taken in 11 reservoirs located at different altitudes between the years 2003 and 2006. Diffusive trace gas emissions were calculated using surface gas concentrations, wind speeds and transfer velocities. Additionally, methane entering with the inflowing water and methane loss at the turbine was assessed for a subset of the reservoirs. All reservoirs were emitters of carbon dioxide and methane with an average of 970 ± 340 mg m−2 day−1 (results only from four lowland and one subalpine reservoir) and 0.20 ± 0.15 mg m−2 day−1, respectively. One reservoir (Lake Wohlen) emitted methane at a much higher rate (1.8 ± 0.9 mg m−2 day−1) than the other investigated reservoirs. There was no significant difference in methane emissions across the altitude gradient, but average dissolved methane concentrations decreased with increasing elevation. Only lowland reservoirs were sources for N2O (72 ± 22 μg m−2 day−1), while the subalpine and alpine reservoirs were in equilibrium with atmospheric concentrations. These results indicate reservoirs from subalpine/alpine regions to be only minor contributors of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere compared to other reservoirs.

WIND ENERGY USE AND WIND ENERGY POTENTIAL OF THE REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA

In the energy sector important increase in the use of renewable energy sources has been caused by climate changes, which are, in turn, a result of greenhouse gas emissions and the pollution of the environment. The energy of the wind is the most impor- tant environmentally- friendly renewable energy source, and is, by many economic parame- ters, a successful competitor to classical energy sources. The countries of the European Union, as well as America, China, India, Australia and many other countries have introdu- ced substantial government measures to support the development of the wind power energy. By using the satellite data, Company ANEMOS developed the RS Wind Atlas in 5 km x 5 km resolution. The data from land meteorological stations in the territory of RS may be used only to a limited extent due to the spatial distribution of measurement places and large influence that the configuration and roughness of the surrounding area have on the interpretation of measurement results. A number of specialized measurement stations for wind in the territory of the Romanija and around Trebinje have been installed in order to determine the local energy potential of the wind. This paper outlines the first results of determining global distribution of speed of wind in the RS territory according to the Euro- pean Atlas methodology, by using the satellite measurements with 25 km x 25 km resolu- tion. It has been shown that the wind speed in the territory of RS rises in the direction North-West - South-East, which is corresponding to the available results of other studies. The wind maps that were produced may be used to determine the locations that are appro- priate for setting the specialized measurement stations for wind. At the end of the paper we analyze economic aspects of using the wind energy.

Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from feed supply chains by utilizing regionally produced protein sources: the case of Austrian dairy production

The aim of this study was to analyse the potential greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE) for regionally alternative produced protein-rich feedstuffs (APRFs) which are utilized for dairy cattle in Austria in comparison to solvent-extracted soybean meal (SBME). In addition to GHGE from agriculture and related upstream supply chains, the effects of land use change were calculated and were included in the results for GHGE. Furthermore, mixtures of APRFs were evaluated which provided energy and utilizable protein equivalent to SBME. Highest GHGE were estimated for SBME, mainly due to land use change-related emissions. Medium GHGE were found for distillers' dried grains with solubles, for seed cake and solvent-extracted meal from rapeseed and for lucerne cobs. Cake and solvent-extracted meal from sunflower seed as well as faba beans were loaded with lowest GHGE. Substituting SBME by nutritionally equivalent mixtures of APRFs, on average, resulted in a reduction of GHGE of 42% (22-62%). Utilization of locally produced APRFs shows clear advantages in terms of GHGE. Balanced mixtures of APRFs may offer specific benefits, as they allow for a combination of desirable nutritional value and reduced GHGE.

Greenhouse gas emissions from selected Austrian dairy production systems—model calculations considering the effects of land use change

AbstractThe aim of this study was to analyze various Austrian dairy production systems (PS) concerning their greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE) in a life-cycle chain, including effects of land-use change (LUC). Models of eight PS that differ, on the one hand, in their regional location (alpine, uplands and lowlands) and, on the other hand, in their production method (conventional versus organic, including traditional and recently emerging pasture-based dairy farming) were designed.In general, the GHGE-reducing effect of a higher milk yield per cow and year in conventional dairy farming cannot compensate for the advantages of organic dairy production which requires lower inputs. This is shown both for GHGE per kg of milk and GHGE per ha and year of farmland. Especially when (imported) concentrates were fed, which had been grown on former forests or grassland, e.g. soybean meal and rapeseed cake, GHGE of conventional dairy farming rose due to the effects of LUC.GHGE per kg milk varied from 0.90 to 1.17 kg CO2-eq for conventional PS, while organic PS on average emitted 11% less greenhouse gases (GHGs), the values ranging from 0.81 to 1.02 CO2-eq per kg milk. Within each production method, PS with a higher milk output generally showed better results for GHGE per kg of milk produced than PS with a lower milk output. Nevertheless the latter showed clearly better results for GHGE per ha of land used, ranging from 5.2 to 7.6 Mg CO2-eq per ha and year for conventional PS and from 4.2 to 6.2 Mg CO2-eq per ha and year for organic PS. The results of this study emphasize the importance of a complete life-cycle assessment in the evaluation of impacts that dairy PS have on the climate.

Alternative transport fuels for the future

Petroleum fuels, which are not sustainable and which contribute substantially to greenhouse gas emissions, power nearly all light-duty vehicles. We review the North American literature on alternative fuels such as natural gas, ethanol from corn and biomass, and hydrogen and electricity from renewable resources, as well as propulsion systems including internal combustion engines, electric motors, and fuel cells. Vehicle characteristics including emissions, safety and consumer attributes such as range and power are examined. Results for greenhouse gas emissions and energy use for the well-to-wheel (fuel production and vehicle operation) aspects of the life cycles of the fuel/vehicle combinations are evaluated. While fuel cells and batteries might some day be attractive, in the near term they cannot replace the internal combustion engine. We focus on ethanol and explore its potential to replace nearly all gasoline used in the United States and Canada. We conclude that ethanol produced from biomass is an attractive near/midterm fuel among those that are sustainable.