Total Greenhouse Gas Emissions Research Articles

Energy policy implications of Ecuador’s NDC

In the third national communication submitted by Ecuador, the total greenhouse gases (GHG) emission was calculated at 80,627 GgCO2-eq, considering the country’s commitment to the Framework on Climate Change. In 2018, Ecuador ratified its nationally determined contribution (NDC) to reduce its GHG emissions by 11.87% from the business-as-usual (BAU) scenario by 2025. The macroeconomic impacts of NDC implementation in the energy sector are discussed. A Computable Equilibrium Model applied to Ecuador (CGE_EC) is used by developing scenarios to analyze partial and entry implementation, as well as an alternative scenario. Shocks in exogenous variables are linked to NDC energy initiatives. So, the NDC’s feasibility depends on guaranteeing the consumption of hydropower supply, either through local exports or domestic demand. In the last case, the government’s Energy Efficiency Program (PEC) and electricity transport have important roles, but the high levels of investment required and poor social conditions would impair its implementation. NDC implementation implies a GDP increase and price index decrease due to electricity cost reductions in the productive sector. These conditions depend on demand-supply guarantees, and the opposite case entails negative impacts on the economy. The alternative scenario considers less dependence on the external market, achieving higher GDP, but with only partial fulfillment of the NDC goals.

Application of GIS in Introducing Community-Based Biogas Plants from Dairy Farm Waste: Potential of Renewable Energy for Rural Areas in Bangladesh

Dairy production is one of the most important economic sectors in Bangladesh. However, the traditional management of dairy cow manure and other wastes results in air pollution, eutrophication of surface water, and soil contamination, highlighting the urgent need for more sustainable waste management solutions. To address the environmental problems of dairy waste management, this research explored the potential of community-based biogas production from dairy cow manure in Bangladesh. This study proposed introducing community-based biogas plants using a geographic information system (GIS). The study first applied a restriction analysis to identify sensitive areas, followed by a suitability analysis to determine feasible locations for biogas plants, considering geographical, social, economic, and environmental factors. The final suitable areas were identified by combining the restriction and suitability maps. The spatial distribution of dairy farms was analyzed through a cluster analysis, identifying significant clusters for potential biogas production. A baseline and proposed scenario were designed for five clusters based on the input and output capacities of the biogas plants, estimating the location and capacity for each cluster. The study also calculated electricity generation from the proposed scenario and the net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction potential of the biogas plants. The findings provide a land-use framework for implementing biogas plants that considers environmental and socio-economic criteria. Five biogas plants were found to be technically and spatially feasible for electricity generation. These plants can collectively produce 31 million m3 of biogas annually, generating approximately 200.60 GWh of energy with a total electricity capacity of 9.8 MW/year in Bangladesh. Implementing these biogas plants is expected to increase renewable energy production by at least 1.25%. Furthermore, the total GHG emission reduction potential is estimated at 104.26 Gg/year CO2eq through the annual treatment of 61.38 thousand tons of dairy manure.

Addressing Climate Change: The Role of Agriculture in Greenhouse Gas Mitigation

Agriculture is a cornerstone of global food security, which is significantly affected by climate change, primarily driven by human activities that increase greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Accounting for approximately 13% of global anthropogenic GHG emissions, agricultural practices-such as livestock rearing, rice cultivation and synthetic fertilizer use which contribute substantially to global warming. Emissions from nitrous oxide (N₂O), methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) exacerbate this issue, with N₂O being particularly concerning due to its high global warming potential. Mitigation strategies within the agricultural sector are essential, including improved nutrient management, the use of nitrification inhibitors and innovative fertilizer application technologies. Organic farming demonstrates lower N₂O emissions compared to conventional practices, emphasizing the importance of sustainable agricultural methods. Additionally, conservation tillage and practices like zero-tillage help reduce CO₂ emissions by minimizing soil disturbance and enhancing carbon sequestration. Biochar application further supports soil health and GHG reduction by enhancing carbon storage. To mitigate methane emissions from rice fields, reduced tillage and the introduction of electron acceptors can effectively inhibit methanogenesis. As CO₂ constitutes about 72% of total GHG emissions, agricultural practices that increase soil organic carbon (SOC) are critical for effective carbon sequestration. Overall, the agricultural sector holds significant potential for GHG mitigation, with studies suggesting that 89% of the mitigation potential can be achieved through carbon sequestration. Therefore, adopting these strategies is crucial not only for reducing emissions but also for ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity in the face of climate change challenges.

A novel blockchain-based system for improving information integrity in building projects from the perspective of building energy performance

Global population growth has long been intertwined with environmental concerns and sustainable development. The building sector, a significant energy consumer worldwide, contributes substantially to total energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. With the projected global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, building energy consumption is expected to rise continuously, emphasizing the need to optimize energy performance for environmental sustainability. Despite efforts by many countries to formulate energy conservation objectives and strategies, empirical evidence reveals a substantial disparity between designed and actual building energy consumption, known as the building energy performance gap (BEPG). This gap poses a significant challenge to energy conservation efforts, and the lack of information integrity is a significant contributor to this gap. To address the challenge of inadequate information integrity in building energy projects, this research proposes an innovative solution based on blockchain technology. By utilizing blockchain's decentralized, transparent, and tamper-resistant nature, the proposed model aims to enhance information transmission mechanisms among stakeholders. Ten key energy-related stakeholders and various information flows within building projects are identified. Based on this, an exploratory architectural information management model incorporating blockchain technology is developed. The model features functionalities such as data recording, retrieval, transmission, and incentive mechanisms to ensure data immutability and reliable access security. Through a case study, the model's performance is evaluated in terms of storage cost, latency, and privacy, demonstrating significant time savings in uploading and transferring files. The proposed blockchain-based model offers a feasible solution to the challenges of inadequate information integrity in building energy projects, promoting collaboration and accurate information transmission. This model contributes to improving project outcomes and advancing sustainable development in the construction industry.

Scrupulous analysis of the carbon footprint of sustainable electricity produced from raw bagasse, torrefied bagasse, and filter cake pellets in Thailand

This study evaluates the carbon footprint of a 25 MW biomass power plant in a sugar factory, focusing on its 8 MW grid supply. Six key activities were assessed: fuel preparation, combustion, power generation, particulate removal, and water production (soft and cooling). The research compares greenhouse gas (GHG) emission from three scenarios: 100 % raw bagasse (RB), RB mixed with torrefied bagasse (TB), and RB with filter cake pellets (FP) at ratios of 95:5, 97:3, and 99:1. Data collected throughout 2023 revealed that the plant consumed 119,769.89 tons of RB (51 % moisture, 7740.40 kJ/kg heating value), generating 31,552,711.00 kWh annually. Emissions were calculated in kg CO2eq/kWh using the 2006 IPCC Guideline (The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change). Results showed that 100 % RB emitted (0.184+0.006, −0.005) kg CO2eq/kWh. Incorporating TB reduced emissions to 5 % = (0.178±0.005), 3 % = (0.178+0.006, −0.005) and 1 % = (0.178+0.006, −0.005) kg CO2eq/kWh due to decreased diesel oil, electricity, and steam usage in fuel preparation. Remarkably, using FP further decreased emissions, with 5 % FP resulting in negative total GHG emissions of (-0.225+0.015, −0.017) kg CO2eq/kWh, primarily due to the FP preparation process (-15,096,234.40±56,716.07 kg CO2eq/year). The study concludes that combining RB with TB or FP significantly reduces emissions and increases electricity production 5 % torrefied bagasse decreased 0.30 %, 3 % torrefied bagasse decreased 1.34 % and 1 % torrefied bagasse decreased 2.41 %, 5 % pelletized filter cake decreased 229.95 %, 3 % pelletized filter cake decreased 139.77 % and 1 % pelletized filter cake decreased 48.77 % by compare raw bagasse 100 %, promoting sustainable energy generation. These findings encourage the use of biomass for sustainable and environmentally advantageous power production.

Recycling packaging waste from residual waste reduces greenhouse gas emissions

Recycling packaging waste from residual waste can help alleviate resource pressure. However, its environmental and economic benefits remain uncertain, which hinders the widespread application of packaging waste recycling. This study assessed the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, environmental impacts, and external costs of a government-recommended technology for recycling packaging waste by applying Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and ChintaxRCP model. The results showed that packaging waste recycling reduced GHG emissions by an average of 348.1 kg CO2-eq/t residual waste, and external costs by 376.7 €/t residual waste, due to the decrease in incineration. If all packaging waste in residual waste is recycled, over 60% of the total GHG emissions and about 80% of the external costs of residual waste management can be avoided. Moreover, sensitivity analysis indicated that the content of paper and plastic had a significant impact on the environmental impacts of residual waste management. This study demonstrates that recycling packaging waste instead of incineration can bring environmental and economic benefits in the long run. The study provides quantitative evidence to support policies for waste management and increases confidence in the utilization of low-value recyclables for the government.

Greenhouse gas concentrations and diffusive fluxes in the middle reach of the Lancang River before and after damming

With increasing concerns of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from reservoirs, the debate surrounding whether hydropower qualifies as green energy has become increasingly contentious. However, quantifying the impact of dam construction on river GHG emissions still poses challenging due to the absence of direct observational data on river GHG emissions pre- and post-damming. In the present study, the differences in GHG diffusive fluxes from pre- and post-dammed river channels in the middle reaches of the Lancang River were quantified through three field campaigns in 2016, 2018, and 2023. The results indicate that reservoir construction increases the diffusive fluxes of GHG from the natural river, the total GHG emissions (expressed as carbon dioxide equivalent: CO2eq) from post-dammed river ranged from 234.42 to 527.55 mg CO2eq m−2 d−1 and were 1.4–5.2 times higher than that from pre-dammed river. However, the GHG diffusive fluxes from the reservoirs in the Lancang River remain below the average of global reservoirs. Moreover, river damming enhances the methane (CH4) emissions, the average value of CH4/CO2 ratio (in mg m−2 d−1) was 0.003 post-dam and was 13 times higher than that of pre-dam. Our results revealed that alterations in sediment distribution following reservoir construction emerge as a pivotal factor contributing to the variations in spatial distributions of GHG diffusive fluxes in the studied river channel. Overall, the findings of the study provide a primary and direct evidence of river damming impact on GHG emissions and underscore the necessity of long-term continuous in-situ measurements of GHG fluxes in the rivers undergoing hydropower development.

CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND ENVIRONMENT: ANALYSIS OF THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN POPULATION, HOUSEHOLD AND SIMILAR WASTE AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS IN ALGERIA (2010-2023)

Objective: The objective of this paper is to analyze the relationships between total population (POP), household and similar waste (DMA), and greenhouse gas emissions (GES) in Algeria from 2010 to 2023. The study explores trends in these variables and employs the Granger causality test to assess causal relationships between population growth, waste production, and emissions. Findings provide insights into the interdependencies among these factors. Recommendations for improving waste management through circular economy practices are also discussed. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework is based on the interrelationship between population growth, waste production, and greenhouse gas emissions. It posits that as population increases, household waste generation rises, which subsequently contributes to GHG emissions. This framework underpins the use of the Granger causality test to explore causal links among these variables in Algeria. Method: The study employs a descriptive analysis of the variables—total population, household waste (DMA), and greenhouse gas emissions (GES)—over the period 2010-2023. The Granger causality test is applied to examine causal relationships between total population and DMA, and between DMA and GES emissions. Data is analyzed to identify unidirectional causal links at a 5% significance level. Results and Discussion: Population growth directly impacts household waste (DMA) and greenhouse gas emissions (GES). Waste management is crucial for controlling emissions. Algeria needs to implement circular economy practices like recycling and waste sorting to mitigate environmental impact. Research Implications: Population growth in Algeria leads to increased waste production and emissions, necessitating improved waste management strategies and adoption of circular economy practices for sustainable development. Originality/Value: The study explores the link between population growth, household waste production, and greenhouse gas emissions in Algeria, offering insights for policymakers and sustainable waste management strategies.

A comprehensive quantitative lifecycle cost and environmental impact analysis model for computing infrastructure

This paper presents a comprehensive quantitative model for quantitative assessment of the lifecycle costs and environmental impacts of computing infrastructure, with a focus on internet data centers (IDCs) and high-performance computing (HPC) facilities. The key innovation lies in the integration of interdisciplinary cost evaluation and carbon emission methods for the establishment of this quantitative model. This framework, which outlines key cost components and carbon emission factors, enables the calculation of total costs, electricity expenses, and greenhouse gas emissions throughout the lifecycle of infrastructure. With IDCs as a case study, the research clarifies the intricate cost structure associated with equipment procurement, energy usage, land acquisition, and operational expenses. This paper provides an in-depth understanding of the cost structure and environmental impact of computing infrastructure in support of sustainable decision-making in its development.•Based on established cost estimation methods, such as Lifecycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) and the Analogous Estimating Method, this study examines costs across construction and operation phases.•The Emission Factor Method is used to quantify environmental impact, emphasizing the significance of regional energy mix and power usage effectiveness (PUE).

The Potential of Wood Construction Waste Circularity

Wood construction waste circularity presents enormous potential to significantly de-crease total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the European Union (EU). Latvia could become a frontrunner due to its historic relationship with forestry, wood construction practises and unused potential of the innovative application of wood. This research examines what the potential of “circular wood” in Latvia is, how ready the Latvian wood house construction sector is to engage in a circular economy and wood waste circularity and whether the legal framework is ready to support wood waste management in the country. This study presents a combined approach for systematic wood construction product circularity assessment that includes a review of existing EU and Latvian frameworks for construction and demolition waste (CDW) management and wood construction, a general analysis of wood waste recycling systems and technologies, a quantitative data analysis of construction waste management in Latvia and qualitative data analysis of the Latvian wood house construction sector, and interviews with a focus group of Latvian wood industry representatives. The Latvian scope has allowed us to clarify the pattern methodology and impact points to be replicated, tested and measured further on a broader scale, in other countries, or throughout the whole EU. The main findings reveal a potential life cycle assessment (LCA) verifying the circularity of wood and limitations of wood construction waste circularity in Latvia in terms of wood house construction industry readiness and a legal framework as well as overall social prejudices for circular construction. Findings indicate an overall awareness and level of willingness to participate and engage in the circular construction models among Latvians; however, proactiveness and support (legal and financial) is expected from the government and municipalities. The recommendations point towards improvements in wood waste data management, the wood construction sector and the overall impact on sustainable development goals.

Temporal and spatial analysis of fertilizer application intensity and its environmental risks in China from 1978 to 2022

Fertilizers are an essential input in agriculture as they can enhance crop yields. However, their use also poses significant environmental risks. To thoroughly explore the intensity of fertilizer use and its potential threats to the ecological environment, this study analyzed the environmental risks of fertilizer use from a temporal and spatial perspective based on fertilizer application data in China from 1978 to 2022. Additionally, the contribution of fertilizer application in Chinese farmland to greenhouse gas N2O emissions was quantified using IPCC emission factor methodology. The results indicated that fertilizer application intensity and N2O emissions in China initially increased and then decreased from 1978 to 2022. Despite the implementation of various fertilizer control measures at the policy level, such as the Zero Growth of Fertilizer Action in 2015 and the Efficiency-Increasing Action for Reducing Fertilizer Use in 2022, the intensity of fertilizer application in China still exceeded international safety standards by 1.33-fold in 2022, reaching 298.79 kg/hm2. Furthermore, N2O emissions amounted to 50.17 × 104t, accounting for 16% of China's total agricultural greenhouse gas emissions that year. Correlation and regression analyses demonstrated that with increasing fertilizer application, crop production exhibits an inverted U-shaped growth trend, indicating limited effectiveness of high-intensity fertilizer use in increasing crop yields. These findings highlight the profound greenhouse effect resulting from the use of agricultural nitrogen fertilizer. Therefore, this study proposed technical and policy-level mitigation measures to address the issues caused by excessive fertilizer application, aiming to provide insights for controlling agricultural non-point source pollution and preserving the agroecological environment.

Investigating energy performance of build-to-rent buildings in england

The domestic sector made up 16% of UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions in 2021. The build-to-rent market is experiencing a rapid expansion, but the energy performance and distinctiveness of this building sector are still generally undiscovered. Therefore, 423 build-to-rent flats from three build-to-rent developments in England were evaluated with top-down approach. Energy use intensities of flats were compared against domestic energy benchmarks and design targets. Possible determinants of energy consumption in build-to-rent flats, including EPC rating, number of bedrooms, air permeability, glazing area and glazing orientation were investigated through correlation analyses. Research discovers discrepancy between actual energy performance of the studied flats and design targets supporting UK’s 2050 net zero target. In this case study, number of bedrooms is identified as the most noticeable factor influencing energy consumption. Results of this study provide an introductory insight of the build-to-rent sector and serve as a starting point to encourage further exploration. Practical application This paper specifically focuses on build-to-rent buildings within the domestic sector. Energy use situations of build-to-rent flats in the UK were investigated with actual measured data provided by a build-to-rent developer. Results demonstrate the discrepancy between energy use in the build-to-rent flats being studied and existing domestic benchmarks. This paper provides insights to researchers, building developers and policymakers regarding the energy performance of this upsurging build-to-rent building sector and its associated influencing factors. It also contributes ideas on the importance of data sharing and development of energy benchmarking of the build-to-rent sector.

Evaluating the environmental impacts of brick production from waste plastic

The building and construction sector accounts for nearly 40% of the total process-related greenhouse gas emissions, out of which 11% of emissions are related to the production of building materials. To achieve environmental sustainability, it is imperative that these emissions be minimized through a novel approach. We propose that instead of using conventional building techniques of wood-based construction for interior walls of a house, bricks manufactured from waste plastic be used. In this paper, a comparative life cycle assessment (LCA) is carried out for the building materials used in the construction of interior walls for a standard 2450 sq. ft. home, and the results are compared to the bricks manufactured from waste plastic. Plastic bricks are manufactured by sorting and shredding the waste plastic and then bailing it in a superheated steam environment. The LCA is modeled in SimaPro 9.5.0.1, using the Ecoinvent v3 database and the ReCiPe Midpoint (H) 2016 impact assessment method. The results indicate that the use of waste plastics in construction leads to reduction in the water consumption by 26%, terrestrial ecotoxicity by 59%, mineral resource scarcity by 81%, and the land use by 99% when compared to conventional construction activities. Our research work provides a novel pathway towards sustainable construction practices through this life cycle assessment study, and the results can be further improved by using eco-friendly energy sources and natural resource-based adhesives. Future work needs to be carried out to explore the mechanical and structural properties of the bricks and their use in large-scale commercial applications, as well as innovative brick designs that eliminate the need for adhesives.

Cocoa pod husk-derived organic soil amendments differentially affect soil fertility, nutrient leaching, and greenhouse gas emissions in cocoa soils

The depletion of soil nutrients and decline in yields on cocoa farms in west Africa over time force farmers to abandon their farms and look for new fertile land, thereby contributing to deforestation. Cocoa pod husks (CPH) are a major farm waste representing considerable export of nutrients from cocoa soils, particularly P and K. Here, the impacts of soil amendment with raw CPH residues, CPH compost, CPH biochar, or a CPH compost-biochar mixture on soil fertility, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and nutrient losses via leaching were assessed in two laboratory experiments using two major soil types used for cocoa cultivation in Ghana (an acidic Ferralsol and an alkaline Nitisol). In Experiment 1, soil nutrient availability and CO2 and N2O emissions were quantified, whereas simulation and quantification of nutrient leaching were conducted in Experiment 2. Soil pH increased from 4.8 and 8.6 by 1.4- and 1.1-folds on average in amended Ferralsols and Nitisols, respectively. Soil electrical conductivity increased in soils amended with CPH compost and/or biochar. Addition of raw CPH caused remarkable microbial immobilisation of N and reduced N availability and leaching, whereas CPH compost and/or biochar addition increased soil nitrate availability but reduced soil ammonium availability. Leaching of Ca in Nitisols was reduced when CPH biochar was included in the soil amendment. While soil K availability increased in all amended soils, most notably when CPH biochar was included, soil P and Ca availabilities were greatest where CPH compost was included. Soil total GHG emission (CO2 plus N2O) increased in all amended Ferralsols and the Nitisols amended with CPH compost or raw CPH, with the latter remarkably increasing soil CO2 emission by up to 14.8-folds. Compared to sole CPH compost amendment, CPH compost-biochar mixture amendment reduced soil total GHG emission and N and P leaching. These findings show that composted and/or pyrolysed CPH can be judiciously used to enhance soil fertility in cocoa farms, particularly in acidic soils. Pyrolysed CPH is especially beneficial for reducing soil nutrient leaching and GHG emissions and thus for increasing the sustainability of cocoa production in Ghana and west Africa.

Exploring compost production potential and its economic benefits and greenhouse gas mitigation in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

The increasing amount of municipal organic waste (MOW) and human excreta (HE) has led to socio-economic and environmental challenges in the cities of developing countries. This study estimated MOW and HE, compost production potential from MOW and HE, and compost application potential for urban agriculture fertilization, economic benefits, soil carbon sequestration, and greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for the period 2025–2050. MOW was forecasted using the Holt-Winters forecasting model. HE was estimated using the daily average rate of HE generation. The compost production potential was estimated using the forecasted MOW and HE. Compost fertilization was determined by considering compost nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) and the fertilizer requirements of cereals and vegetables. The economic benefits of compost were determined by considering the price of compost-equivalent urea, NPS, and potassium chloride fertilizers. The mitigation of GHG emissions from compost application was estimated using the IPCC Tier 1 method. The forecasted quantities of MOW, HE, and compost for 2050 are 301, 462, and 343 Gg, respectively. The compost could supply 5 Gg of N and 2.2 Gg of P in 2050, sufficient to fertilize 14,129 ha of vegetable fields. The economic benefits of using compost as a substitute for synthetic fertilizers could reach 10 million USD in 2050. Compost production and application could offset the total GHG emissions of Addis Ababa by 13.1 % (10,241Gg CO2-eq year−1) in 2050. The application of compost generated from MOW and HE in Addis Ababa can substitute synthetic fertilizers, provide economic benefits, and mitigate GHG emissions.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Energy Consumption in the Garments, Textile, and Dyeing Sectors in Savar, Dhaka (2019-2021)

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, a key driver of global climate change, continue to rise due to industrial activities and fossil fuel reliance. This study evaluates energy consumption patterns and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the garments, textile, and dyeing industries in Savar Upazila, Dhaka, from 2019 to 2021. Natural gas has been identified as the dominant energy source, contributing to a steady increase in GHG emissions from 64,920 tons in 2019 to 69,531 tons in 2021. Diesel and electricity consumption also contributed to emissions, with notable growth in the textile and dyeing sectors. Although minimal, solar energy adoption showed a positive upward trend, rising from 0.058 to 0.113 TJ during the study period, indicating a shift toward renewable energy sources. Despite this, the total GHG emissions rose from 129,015 tons in 2019 to 137,880 tons in 2021, emphasizing the need for cleaner technologies and more sustainable practices. The findings underscore the significance of enhancing energy efficiency and implementing renewable energy sources to mitigate the environmental impact of these industries.

Mapping irrigation regimes in Chinese paddy lands through multi-source data assimilation

Water-saving irrigation (WI) is a crucial agricultural management with the benefits to save irrigation water, reduce energy consumption, and suppress methane emissions from paddy lands. Classifying WI practices from traditional flooding irrigation (FI) is a key component in detecting the rice irrigation status, which is significant to estimate the total agriculture-associated greenhouse gas emissions. In this study, we developed an automatic method to map irrigation regimes across Chinese paddy lands. First, we used seven variables related with irrigation facility or vegetation cover as proxy to generate representative WI and FI samples. Besides, we composited 123 features of optical bands and synthetic aperture radar from MODIS and Sentinel-1 data. Then, we trained a random forest model for each province with these samples. Finally, we applied the trained model to generate maps of WI/FI practices at 500 m resolution. Comparisons of the resultant maps with census data indicated highly accurate estimations of the WI area at a city- or province-level, with a R2 higher than 0.92. The overall accuracy of the classification was approximately 0.73, as validated through ground truth samples. Additionally, we also conducted a data quality analysis and confirmed the classification results were reliable in main rice production area of China. With the push towards carbon neutrality goals and the increasing demand for clean management practices, we developed and demonstrated an advanced method to produce near real-time maps of irrigation regimes and provide crucial data support for agricultural emissions reduction and irrigation management decisions.

Spatial Simulation and Optimization of Cropping Structure Under Climate and Land Use Change Conditions Considering Synergistic Economic Benefits and Carbon Reduction in Crop Growth Processes

AbstractThe climate and land use changes caused by the natural environment and socioeconomic development have potential impacts on the green and sustainable development of agriculture. To accommodate agricultural production under multiple scenarios of future climate and land‐use change, this study proposes a “simulation–optimization” modeling approach based on a crop growth model with a synergistic “carbon emission–economic benefit” approach. This approach is based on climate change conditions and it accurately simulates future land use changes and crop growth processes, establishes a carbon emission intensity optimization model, and generates a spatial planting structure optimization and regulation scheme based on intelligent optimization algorithms under changing scenarios. The results of the model application show that the planting structure option in the future scenario can increase economic benefit by up to 14.8% compared to the current scenario while simultaneously reducing total greenhouse gas emissions by 6.77%. Correlation analysis of planting area, irrigation water volume, carbon intensity value and unilateral water use efficiency can be used to obtain the coordination level of each county under different regulation scenarios. This “simulation–optimization” modeling approach provides an effective approach to achieve synergistic and coordinated development of regional agricultural benefits and carbon reduction by fine‐tuning the planting structure, which promotes low‐carbon and high‐quality development of regional agriculture.

Effect of ethanol content, water injection, and compression ratio on combustion and detailed emissions in an SI-GDI engine

The transportation sector accounts for 29 % of the total greenhouse gas emissions produced in the US. Steadily tightening criteria emissions and fuel efficiency requirements have led to current research efforts evaluating multiple mixed strategies or extending beyond traditional engine architectures and fuels. Ethanol is used extensively as both a fuel additive and primary fuel replacement for gasoline. Modern engines utilizing boosting or high compression ratios require fuels such as ethanol that are more resistant to pre-ignition to operate efficiently at high load conditions. Water dilution has historically been used for knock reduction and some potential has been found for emissions and efficiency improvements. The studies on these topics, however, often focus on wide-open-throttle (WOT) conditions and neglect part load where engines normally operate. This investigation evaluates the combined effects of fuel ethanol content, compression ratio, and water dilution on the combustion and emissions characteristics A 2.4L 4-cylinder naturally aspirated (NA) gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine at part load conditions.The results indicated that the varied combinations of compression ratio and fuel ethanol content did not change the typical performance or emissions results expected for either parameter alone. Water dilution only significantly degraded stability at conditions with coefficient of variation (CoV) of indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) values near or above 3 %. Water dilution at 10 % and 20 % W/F rations reduced average oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions by 20 % and 40 % respectively. The water dilution effect on unburned hydrocarbons (UHCs) was more mixed with flame ionization detector (FID) results showing mixed positive and negative effects for lower ethanol content fuels and up to a 20 % increase in UHC emissions with the high ethanol fuel (E85). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) results agreed with the fuel blend UHC sensitivity reported with the FID. Ethanol emissions were found to increase by two to three times more for each level of water dilution than unburned gasoline emissions.

Environmentally sustainable opportunities for health systems: Metered-dose inhaler prescribing, dispensing, use and waste at a tertiary academic centre.

The Canadian health sector's carbon footprint is among the highest in the world and is responsible for 4.6% of Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions, a quarter of which is linked to pharmaceuticals, with metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) contributing disproportionally high amounts. To describe MDI prescribing, dispensing, use and waste patterns at a Canadian tertiary care academic hospital. In a retrospective point-prevalence cohort study, 100 consecutive patients discharged from medical and surgical services who were prescribed at least 1 MDI during their admission were included. Data were collected to describe patient demographics, MDI prescribing, dispensing, use and waste patterns. Use and waste data were applied to annual purchasing data to estimate annual usage and waste. Financial cost was computed using local purchasing estimates and carbon cost was calculated using published estimates. In 100 consecutively discharged patients, 315 MDIs were dispensed in total, of which 96 were unused. This represents 61,440 actuations dispensed, with 56,773 (92%) of doses unused or wasted. Waste data were applied to annual estimates, with a calculated annual carbon footprint of 315.8 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e). We estimate that a 20% waste reduction would result in carbon savings of 68.5 tCO2e. If 20% of salbutamol prescriptions were switched to the dry powder inhaler alternative, terbutaline, a 14% reduction in waste would be required to offset the additional monetary cost. This study suggests that 92% of MDI doses are unused and wasted. Opportunities for waste reduction exist and would be associated with both financial and carbon savings.