Search Results (1,286)

Biowaste from livestock production is increasing globally because of the intensification of livestock farming and inefficient waste management practices. If mismanaged, biowaste can result in environmental problems, including increased greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Anaerobic digestion (AD) stands as an effective approach for managing livestock biowaste, simultaneously generating biogas for energy recovery and digestate for agronomic application, following the principles of the circular economy. Considered a biowaste-to-energy approach, AD mitigates GHG emissions, facilitates nutrient recovery, and reduces dependence on fossil fuels. Despite its acknowledged benefits and status as a mature technology, further research is required to identify the best route for optimising the process in terms of stability and performance. This review examines new research that explores innovative ways to enhance the mesophilic AD process in continuous-stirred tank reactors, including the use of additives, especially carbon-based ones like biochar. From this perspective, the key challenges are exploring new insights into future research routes to implement AD units at a real scale, and pursuing goals towards a circular economy model. Finally, new opportunities have arisen for farmers to create synergies across agro-industrial sectors, enabling them to minimise their environmental footprint and simultaneously earn additional revenue. Full article

Background: The forest products industry plays a significant role in global carbon emissions, highlighting the need for sustainable practices to address the climate crisis. Reverse logistics (RL), focusing on the return, reuse, and recycling of materials, offers a promising approach to decarbonizing supply chains. However, its application within forest products supply chains remains underexplored. Methods: This study conducts a review of the literature on RL, its environmental implications, and its potential to reduce carbon emissions in forest products supply chains. Key areas examined include greenhouse gas reduction, waste management, and the promotion of circular economy principles. Additionally, the study evaluates case studies and models that integrate RL practices into forest-based industries. Results: The findings reveal that RL can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by optimizing transportation routes, minimizing waste, and extending product life cycles. Incorporating these practices into forestry operations reduces the environmental impact and aligns with sustainable forestry goals. The study identifies gaps in current research, particularly regarding empirical data and the scalability of RL solutions. Conclusions: RL represents a critical strategy for decarbonizing forest products supply chains and advancing sustainable development. Future research should focus on developing standardized methodologies, enhancing technological integration, and fostering policy support to maximize its impact. These steps are essential to fully leverage RL as a tool for mitigating climate change and promoting a circular economy. Full article

This study provides a bibliometric analysis of global scientific production on Conservation Agriculture (CA) and its relationship with climate change mitigation. Using data from the Scopus and Web of Science databases, the research encompassed 650 articles published between 1995 and 2022. The analysis revealed significant growth in the number of publications over the past three decades, driven by increasing global interest in sustainable agricultural practices. The findings highlight key themes, including no-tillage, soil organic carbon, and greenhouse gas emissions. Collaboration networks were mapped, identifying major contributors, such as the USA, Brazil, and China, alongside thematic clusters emphasizing carbon sequestration and soil management. Results indicate that CA research is increasingly focused on its potential to mitigate climate change, particularly through practices like no-tillage, vegetative cover, and crop rotation. While carbon sequestration has been central to CA research, recent studies have expanded to include nitrous oxide and methane emissions, indicating a broadening conceptual framework. This analysis underscores the importance of CA in addressing climate challenges and offers insights into emerging research areas, such as regional adaptations and the long-term effects of no-till systems. The findings aim to guide future research and policy development in sustainable agriculture and climate mitigation. Full article

Knowing the energy balance in agricultural systems is essential for a holistic understanding of sustainability, productivity and economic return. The aim of this study was to estimate the cumulative energy demand (CED), greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and carbon footprint in industrial potato and tomato production systems in the Southeast region of Brazil, identifying mitigation strategies in different scenarios. The Life Cycle Analysis methodology was used, and two functional units were defined: one hectare of cultivation and one kilogram of vegetable produced. The CEDs for tomato and potato production were 59,553.56 MJ ha^–1 (or 0.54 MJ kg^–1) and 57,992.02 MJ ha^–1 (or 1.45 MJ kg^–1), respectively. The GHG emissions were 5425.13 kg CO₂ eq ha^–1 for potato production and 5270.9 kg CO₂ eq ha^–1 for tomato production, resulting in carbon footprints of 0.135 and 0.042 kg CO₂ eq kg^–1, respectively. Fertilizers, diesel and pesticides were the main contributors to CED and GHG emissions. Thus, in order to achieve greater sustainability in the production of these vegetables and mitigate the impacts on the environment generated by the high demand for energy and GHG emissions, it is necessary to replace synthetic fertilizers with organic sources, chemical pesticides with biological pesticides, diesel with biodiesel or the use of electric vehicles and tractors, resulting in reductions of up to 39 and 52% in the GHG emissions for potatoes and tomatoes, respectively. Full article

The co-gasification of biomass and plastic waste offers a promising solution for producing hydrogen-rich syngas, addressing the rising demand for cleaner energy. However, optimizing this complex process to maximize hydrogen yield remains challenging, particularly when balancing diverse feedstocks and improving process efficiency. While machine learning (ML) has shown significant potential in simulating and optimizing such processes, there is no clear consensus on the most effective regression models for co-gasification, especially with limited experimental data. Additionally, the interpretability of these models is a key concern. This study aims to bridge these gaps through two primary objectives: (1) modeling the co-gasification process using seven different ML algorithms, and (2) developing a framework for evaluating model interpretability, ultimately identifying the most suitable model for process optimization. A comprehensive set of experiments was conducted across three key dimensions, generalization ability, predictive accuracy, and interpretability, to thoroughly assess the models. Support Vector Regression (SVR) exhibited superior performance, achieving the highest coefficient of determination ($R^2$) of 0.86. SVR outperformed other models in capturing non-linear dependencies and demonstrated effective overfitting mitigation. This study further highlights the limitations of other ML models, emphasizing the importance of regularization and hyperparameter tuning in improving model stability. By integrating Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) into model evaluation, this work is the first to provide detailed insights into feature importance and demonstrate the operational feasibility of ML models for industrial-scale hydrogen production in the co-gasification process. The findings contribute to the development of a robust framework for optimizing co-gasification, supporting the advancement of sustainable energy technologies and the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Full article

Expanding the road network is inevitable due to the accelerated economic growth of countries. However, the development of road infrastructure has generated considerable concern among society, governments, and environmental organizations. This concern mainly stems from the significant environmental effects and the omission of the sustainability of materials associated with road construction. Current literature suggests Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) as a solution to address greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts of road infrastructure. This research uses the PRISMA-SCR methodology to identify strategies to mitigate environmental impact during the life cycle stages of asphalt pavements and emission-generating activities. This study identifies the critical life cycle stages responsible for the largest amount of emissions, highlighting “material extraction and production” and “transportation” as key areas of intervention. The results demonstrate how the incorporation of recycled materials (RAPs) and warm mix asphalts (WMAs) can reduce between 15% and 45% of total emissions. It is concluded that it is possible to develop asphalt pavement construction projects with a sustainability perspective, allowing not only to identify opportunities to optimize construction processes but also to establish a reference framework for transportation agencies to integrate more sustainable practices, including the reduction of emissions, the responsible use of non-renewable resources and proper waste management. Full article

Water-based nutrient injection technology, widely used in sectors like viticulture, hydroponics, and intensive animal systems, has previously seen limited application in livestock production. Early mechanical dispensers for nutrients, such as non-protein nitrogen (NPN) and phosphorus (P), were prone to malfunction, leading to inconsistent dosing and potential livestock health risks. This contributed to skepticism and slow adoption among producers. However, recent technological advancements have renewed interest in water-based supplementation for grazing animals. This case study assessed the use of water injection technology to deliver nutrients and a methane-reducing compound to cattle on a commercial cattle station under extensive grazing conditions. A total of 120 steers [initial liveweight (LW) 322.5 ± 28.3 kg] were assigned to three groups: water only (Control), a water supplement containing nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, known as uPRO GREEN^® (Green), and uPRO GREEN^® combined with Agolin Ruminant L^® (Blue). The experiment lasted 90 days, during which LW was continuously monitored via a walk-over weighing system, and water disappearance was measured at the mob level. Methane emissions were forecasted using dry matter intake estimates based on observed animal growth rates. Additionally, 24 steers were equipped with on-animal sensors with GPS to monitor behavioral changes. The results indicate that despite the potential reduction in water intake (Control and Green: 948.1 and 973.5 L/d, respectively, versus 547.5 L/d for Blue), there were no negative effects on growth (mean average daily gain of 1.32 kg/d) or animal behaviors. The predicted methane emission of 209.04 g CH₄/head/day could potentially be reduced by 10–15% with the compound used in the current trial. These findings suggest that water-based supplementation can be used to optimize nutrient delivery and a methane-reducing compound without compromising cattle productivity in extensive grazing environments. In addition, the potential enteric methane mitigation presents an opportunity for livestock producers to generate additional revenue through carbon credits or to create new markets for beef with low greenhouse gas emissions when cattle consume methane-reducing compounds. Full article

The transition to carbon neutrality in China’s heavy industries is essential for mitigating global climate change, given the sector’s significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. This study systematically examines the multifaceted barriers and opportunities influencing decarbonization efforts in these industries. Employing expert-driven methodologies, including the Delphi method and the best-worst method (BWM), the research identifies and prioritizes critical challenges, such as the high upfront costs for renewable technologies, the technological dependency on coal, and the fragmented regulatory frameworks. It highlights transformative opportunities, emphasizing advancements in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), renewable energy integration, and strengthened carbon pricing mechanisms. The findings reveal the interaction between economic, technological, and policy dimensions, underscoring the need for coordinated interventions to overcome entrenched barriers. The study contributes to theoretical advancements by integrating expert insights with robust multi-criteria decision-making techniques and offers actionable pathways for policymakers and industry stakeholders to accelerate industrial decarbonization. These insights align with international climate objectives, providing a scalable framework for global sustainable transitions in energy-intensive sectors. Full article

Agriculture remains a key source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within the European Union, posing substantial obstacles to achieving climate objectives and fostering sustainable development. On this background, organic farming stands out as a viable alternative, offering significant potential for reducing emissions. This study explores the impact of expanding organic farming on GHG emissions in the EU agricultural sector. The empirical research examines the connection between organic farming practices and GHG emission levels using structural equation modeling, complemented by Holt and ARIMA forecasting models, to project future trends based on expected growth in organic farmland. The findings highlight a robust negative influence (p < 0.001), demonstrating that organic farming practices are associated with tangible reductions in emissions. Forecasting analyses further reinforce this, predicting considerable declines in GHG emissions (by almost 14 percent below the level of 2008) as organic farming continues to expand for over 23% of agricultural land by 2035, according to the projections in this research. These insights underscore the critical role of organic farming in advancing the EU’s climate ambitions. The study concludes that broader adoption of organic practices offers a practical and impactful pathway for building a more sustainable agricultural system while mitigating environmental harm across member states. Full article

Forests mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by capturing CO₂ and storing it as carbon in various forms, including living biomass, dead wood, soil, and forest litter. Importantly, when trees are harvested, a portion of the above-ground biomass is converted into harvested wood products (HWPs), which can retain carbon for decades. With approximately 7 million hectares of forest (30% of its land area), Romania significantly contributes to the country’s carbon budget through the HWP pool. Using country-specific data from 1961 to 2022 and an IPCC method, we tracked HWP carbon storage and projected future scenarios to evaluate the category’s significance in achieving the 2050 climate target. During this period, the carbon stored in Romanian HWPs more than doubled from 28.20 TgC to 60.76 TgC, with sawnwood products as major contributors. Fluctuations were influenced by domestic policies, market dynamics, and industry changes, notably after the 1990s. Annual carbon inflow dipped to 0.65 TgC in 1994 and peaked at 2.54 TgC in 2013. By analyzing the scenarios, we demonstrated that a moderate growth trajectory in carbon inflow, combined with a focus on producing long-lived wood products, could double carbon stock changes by 2050 to 4.4 TgC—roughly 4% of the country’s current total emissions excluding the LULUCF sector. Additionally, based on sustainable forest management practices in Romania, this approach would significantly enhance the carbon pool and its importance in achieving the country’s climate policies. Full article

The potential of electric vehicles (EVs) to support the decarbonization of the transportation sector, crucial for meeting greenhouse gas reduction targets under the Paris Agreement, is obvious. Despite their advantages, the adoption of electric vehicles faces limitations, particularly those related to battery range and charging times, which significantly impact the time needed for a trip compared to their combustion engine counterparts. However, recent improvements in fast charging technology have enhanced these aspects, making EVs more suitable for both daily and long-distance trips. EVs can now deal with long trips, with travel times only slightly longer than those of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Fast charging capabilities and infrastructure, such as 350 kW chargers, are essential for making EV travel times comparable to ICE vehicles, with brief stops every 2–3 h. Additionally, EVs help reduce noise pollution in urban areas, especially in noise-saturated environments, contributing to an overall decrease in urban sound levels. However, this research highlights a downside of DC (Direct Current) fast charging stations: high-frequency noise emissions during fast charging, which can disturb nearby residents, especially in urban and residential areas. This noise, a result of the growing fast charging infrastructure, has led to complaints and even operational restrictions for some charging stations. Noise-related disturbances are a significant urban issue. The World Health Organization identifies noise as a key contributor to health burdens in Europe, even when noise annoyance is subjective, influenced by individual factors like sensitivity, genetics, and lifestyle, as well as by the specific environment. This paper analyzes the sound emission of a broad sample of DC fast charging stations from leading EU market brands. The goal is to provide tools that assist manufacturers, installers, and operators of rapid charging stations in mitigating the aforementioned sound emissions in order to align these infrastructures with Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 11 adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015. Full article

Climate change is a contemporary global challenge that requires comprehensive solutions to mitigate its adverse effects. All human activities contribute to climate change, mainly through atmospheric emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs), such as nitrous oxide (N₂O), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and methane (CH₄). While most of these emissions are primarily due to fossil fuel use, agriculture and livestock production also contribute to a significant share of approximately 12% of global emissions. Most processes that are implemented within an animal husbandry unit are associated with greenhouse gas emissions, including manure management. This review explores the interconnection between climate change and manure management practices, highlighting the potential for sustainable approaches to mitigating GHG emissions. The key strategies for manure management, such as anaerobic digestion, nutrient management, composting, manure separation and treatment, and improved storage and handling, are discussed, as they are implemented in different livestock production systems (ruminants, poultry, and pigs). Despite the technological progress, there is still a place for further improving manure management approaches, especially in non-ruminant species leading to a higher mitigation potential and a reduction in greenhouse gases emissions. Moreover, policy support and incentives for sustainable practices are crucial for widespread adoption. Full article

The integration of biogas and photovoltaic solar energy systems in sanitary landfills represents a promising strategy for sustainable energy generation and efficient urban waste management. This study evaluates the potential for biogas and photovoltaic energy production in two cells of the Municipal Landfill of Chihuahua, Mexico. Using the LandGEM and MMB models (Landfill Gas Emission Model and the Mexican Biogas Model), biogas generation was estimated by considering the composition of the landfill gas and the characteristics of the cover in each cell, revealing notable differences due to their operational periods and waste deposition. Photovoltaic simulations, conducted with the HelioScope software 2020, evaluated spatial configurations and solar radiation data. The generation potential for 2025 was simulated using predictive models, yielding results between 25.48 and 26.08 MW for the biogas–photovoltaic system, depending on the orientation of the panels and the optimization of the coverage. The novelty of this work lies in the combined evaluation of biogas and photovoltaic potential within a single landfill site, integrating advanced modeling tools to optimize system design. By demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of this hybrid system, the study contributes to clean energy solutions, environmental mitigation, and improved waste management strategies. Our findings emphasize the importance of site-specific management practices and predictive modeling to enhance renewable energy production and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, supporting sustainable urban development initiatives. Full article

Global warming and ozone layer depletion signal the onset of climate change, a “slow-onset” disaster exacerbating poverty and social inequality. Addressing this requires global cooperation, as exemplified by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13, which focuses on climate action. Mitigation measures include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning to clean energy, and enhancing community resilience. Social workers play a crucial role in climate change adaptation, engaging in community resilience, advocacy, and policy influence. Their work spans individual counseling, social protection, and addressing environmental refugee crises. As climate change impacts intensify, social workers must expand their roles internationally, advocating for human rights, social justice, and disaster risk reduction. Human rights frameworks guide social workers in addressing climate-related health and social inequalities, emphasizing empowerment and equity. International social workers contribute significantly to disaster response, pandemic recovery, and community resilience, advocating for vulnerable populations and promoting sustainable development. Their evolving role underscores the need for a comprehensive, transnational approach to social protection, ensuring equitable access to resources and fostering a more just and resilient global community. Full article

Since the Industrial Revolution, climate change has intensified due to rising greenhouse gas emissions, leading to severe environmental impacts. Given the building sector’s significant contribution to climate change, the circular economy has emerged as a key mitigation strategy. Despite political support and some advancements, significant barriers persist in the building sector’s transition to the circular economy. This article explores the pivotal role of stakeholders as essential agents of change, highlighting the necessity of a concentrated effort on stakeholder engagement in the building sector’s circular economy transition. Using an online questionnaire, this article evaluated the current status of the building sector, as well as stakeholders’ awareness, roles, and perspectives on the transition. The results revealed that while stakeholders are aware of their environmental impacts, knowledge gaps persist, particularly in waste management and circular economy practices. The stakeholders recognize that the transition is happening, but there is a sense of uncertainty about its effectiveness due to substantial barriers. Despite these barriers, there is an increasing commitment toward the practices of the circular economy, underscoring the need for policy development, infrastructure provision, and training programs to support the transition. This article contributes to the literature by providing insights into key stakeholders’ perspectives and offering actionable strategies to enhance engagement for a more effective transition to the circular economy in the building sector. Full article