Search Results (286)

Global energy supply remains, to this day, mainly dominated by fossil fuels, aggravating climate change. To increase and diversify the share of renewable energy sources, there is an urgent need to expand the use of biofuels that could help in decarbonizing the energy mix. Biomethane, obtained by upgrading biogas, simultaneously allows the local production of clean energy, waste valorization, and greenhouse gas emissions mitigation. Among various upgrading technologies, the use of activated carbons in adsorption-based separation systems has attracted significant attention due to their versatility, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability potential. The present review offers a comprehensive analysis of the factors that influence the efficiency of activated carbons on carbon dioxide adsorption and separation for biogas upgrading. The influence of activation methods, activation conditions, and precursors on the biogas adsorption performance of activated carbons is revised. Additionally, the role of adsorbent textural and chemical properties on gas adsorption behavior is highlighted. By synthesizing current knowledge and perspectives, this work provides guidance for future research that could help in developing more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable adsorbents for biogas upgrading. Full article

Climate change presents urgent and complex challenges to agricultural sustainability and food security, particularly in regions reliant on resource-intensive staple crops. Smart agriculture—through the integration of crop modeling, satellite remote sensing, and artificial intelligence (AI)—offers data-driven strategies to enhance productivity, optimize input use, and mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study introduces Farmdee-Mesook, a mobile-first smart agriculture platform designed specifically for Thai rice farmers. The platform leverages AquaCrop simulation, open-access satellite data, and localized agronomic models to deliver real-time, field-specific recommendations. Usability-focused design and no-cost access facilitate its widespread adoption, particularly among smallholders. Empirical results show that platform users achieved yield increases of up to 37%, reduced agrochemical costs by 59%, and improved water productivity by 44% under alternate wetting and drying (AWD) irrigation schemes. These outcomes underscore the platform’s role as a scalable, cost-effective solution for operationalizing climate-smart agriculture. Farmdee-Mesook demonstrates that digital technologies, when contextually tailored and institutionally supported, can serve as critical enablers of climate adaptation and sustainable agricultural transformation. Full article

This study examines the effects of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) market-based measures, with a particular focus on the greenhouse gas (GHG) levy and on the financial and operational performance of Korean shipping companies. The analysis estimates that these companies, which play a vital role in global trade, consume approximately 9211 kilotons of fuel annually and emit 28.5 million tons of carbon dioxide. Under the lowest proposed carbon tax scenario, the financial burden on these companies is estimated at approximately KRW 1.07 trillion, resulting in an 8.8% reduction in net profit, a 2.4% decrease in return on equity (ROE), and a 1.1% decline in return on assets (ROA). Conversely, under the highest carbon tax scenario, costs rise to KRW 4.89 trillion, leading to a significant 40.2% decrease in net profit, thereby posing a serious threat to the financial stability and competitiveness of these firms. These findings underscore the urgent need for strategic policy interventions to mitigate the financial impact of carbon taxation while promoting both environmental sustainability and economic resilience in the maritime sector. Full article

Livestock farming is a vital component of global food security, yet it remains a major contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, particularly methane (CH₄), which has a global warming potential 28 times greater than carbon dioxide (CO₂). This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current knowledge surrounding the sources, biological mechanisms, and mitigation strategies related to CH₄ emissions from ruminant livestock. We first explore the process of methanogenesis within the rumen, detailing the role of methanogenic archaea and the environmental factors influencing CH₄ production. A thorough assessment of both direct and indirect methods used to quantify CH₄ emissions is presented, including in vitro techniques (e.g., syringe method, batch culture, RUSITEC), in vivo techniques (e.g., respiration chambers, Greenfeed, laser CH₄ detectors), and statistical modeling approaches. The advantages and limitations of each method are critically analyzed in terms of accuracy, cost, feasibility, and applicability to different farming systems. We then examine a wide range of mitigation strategies, organized into four core pillars: (1) animal and feed management (e.g., genetic selection, pasture quality improvement), (2) diet formulation (e.g., feed additives such as oils, tannins, saponins, and seaweed), (3) rumen manipulation (e.g., probiotics, ionophores, defaunation, vaccination), and (4) manure management practices and policy-level interventions. These strategies are evaluated not only for their environmental impact but also for their economic and practical viability in diverse livestock systems. By integrating technological innovations with sustainable agricultural practices, this review highlights pathways to reduce CH₄ emissions while maintaining animal productivity. It aims to support decision-makers, researchers, and livestock producers in the global effort to transition toward climate-smart, low-emission livestock farming. Full article

Sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) are currently considered a key element in the decarbonization of the aviation sector, offering a feasible solution to reduce life cycle greenhouse gas emissions without requiring fundamental changes in aircraft or infrastructure. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of SAFs, including their classification, production technologies, economic aspects, and environmental performance. The analysis covers both currently certified SAF pathways, such as HEFA and FT-SPK, and emerging technologies like alcohol-to-jet and power-to-liquid, assessing their technological maturity, feedstock availability, and scalability. Economic challenges related to high production costs, investment risks, and policy dependencies are discussed, alongside potential mechanisms to support market deployment. Furthermore, the article reviews SAFs’ emission performance, including CO₂ and non-CO₂ effects, based on existing life cycle assessment (LCA) studies, with an emphasis on variability caused by feedstock type and production method. The findings highlight that, while SAFs can significantly reduce aviation-related emissions compared to fossil jet fuels, the magnitude of benefits depends strongly on supply chain design and sustainability criteria. There are various certified pathways for SAF production, as well as new technologies that can further contribute to the development of the industry. Properly selected biomass sources and production technologies can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 70% compared to conventional fuels. The implementation of SAFs faces obstacles related to cost, infrastructure, and regulations, which hinder its widespread adoption. The study concludes that although SAFs represent a promising pathway for aviation climate mitigation, substantial scaling efforts, regulatory support, and continued technological innovation are essential to achieve their full potential. Full article

This paper explores the implementation of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in underground mining operations, focusing on their benefits, challenges, and safety considerations. The study examines the shift from traditional diesel-powered machinery to BEVs in response to increasing environmental concerns and stricter emission regulations. It discusses various lithium-ion battery chemistries used in BEVs, particularly lithium–iron–phosphate (LFP) and nickel–manganese–cobalt (NMC), comparing their performance, safety, and suitability for underground mining applications. The research highlights the significant benefits of BEVs, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality in confined spaces, and potential ventilation cost savings. However, it also addresses critical safety concerns, such as fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and the emission of toxic gases during thermal runaway events. The manuscript emphasises the importance of comprehensive risk assessment and mitigation strategies when introducing BEVs to underground mining environments. It concludes that while BEVs offer promising solutions for more sustainable and environmentally friendly mining operations, further research is needed to ensure their safe integration into underground mining practices. This study contributes valuable insights to the ongoing discussion on the future of mining technology and its environmental impact. Full article

The rapid expansion of plastic waste trade has intensified environmental pressures, accelerating ecosystem degradation and climate change. We examine the long-term impacts of plastic waste imports and domestic waste production on ecological footprints and greenhouse gas emissions across 20 countries representing 70% of global plastic waste trade and 45% of world GDP. Under the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) framework, we explore nonlinear interactions among economic growth, urbanization, and sustainability goals. Using a panel simultaneous equations approach, we apply Pedroni, Kao, and Westerlund cointegration tests and Fully Modified and Dynamic OLS estimators to address endogeneity and heterogeneity. Robustness checks include alternative environmental indicators and the Dumitrescu–Hurlin panel causality test. Results demonstrate a stable long-run equilibrium: plastic waste imports substantially increase ecological footprints and emissions, while progress on sustainable development goals mitigates some damage. The negative GDP squared coefficient supports the EKC hypothesis, indicating that environmental impacts rise initially with growth but decline once income exceeds a threshold. These findings highlight the need for stronger international regulations, enhanced waste management infrastructures, and circular economy strategies. Focused investment in sustainable technologies and global cooperation is essential to lower environmental costs of plastic waste trade. Full article

Industrialization and modernization have significantly improved the quality of life but have also led to substantial pollution. Cost-effective technologies are urgently needed to mitigate emissions from major polluting sectors, such as the automotive and transport industries. In this study, we synthesized naturally derived, kapok-based porous carbon fibers (KP-PCFs) with hollow structures. We investigated their adsorption/desorption behavior for the greenhouse gas n-butane following ASTM D5228 standards. Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses were conducted to examine changes in fiber diameter and crystalline structure under different activation times. The micropore properties of KP-PCFs were characterized using Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, t-plot, and non-localized density functional theory models based on N₂/77K adsorption isotherm data. The specific surface area and total pore volume ranged from 500 to 1100 m²/g and 0.24 to 0.60 cm³/g, respectively, while the micropore and mesopore volumes were 0.20–0.45 cm³/g and 0.04–0.15 cm³/g, respectively. With increasing activation time, the n-butane adsorption capacity improved from 62.2% to 73.5%, whereas retentivity (residual adsorbate) decreased from 6.0% to 1.3%. The adsorption/desorption rate was highly correlated with pore diameter: adsorption capacity was highest for diameters of 1.5–2.5 nm, while retentivity was greatest for diameters of 3.5–5.0 nm. Full article

Improving the energy efficiency of buildings is a critical pathway in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and fostering sustainable urban development. This study introduces a simulation-based multi-objective optimization framework designed to enhance both the thermal and economic performance of residential buildings. A representative single-family dwelling located in Patras, Greece, served as a case study to demonstrate the application and scalability of the proposed methodology. The optimization simultaneously minimized two conflicting objectives: the building’s annual thermal energy demand and the cost of construction materials. The computational process was implemented using MATLAB’s Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithm, supported by a modular Excel interface that enables the dynamic customization of design parameters and climatic inputs. A parametric analysis across four optimization scenarios was conducted by systematically varying the key algorithmic hyperparameters—population size, mutation rate, and number of generations—to assess their impact on convergence behavior, Pareto front resolution, and solution diversity. The results confirmed the algorithm’s robustness in producing technically feasible and non-dominated solutions, while also highlighting the sensitivity of optimization outcomes to hyperparameter tuning. The proposed framework is a flexible, reproducible, and computationally tractable approach to supporting early-stage, performance-driven building design under realistic constraints. Full article

The present research aims to assess, from both ecological and economic perspectives, a strategic solution applied to the building sector that can contribute to mitigating the planetary tragedy of the overconsumption of global fossil energy (coal, oil, and gas) and, thus, climate change, along with its dramatic negative impacts on the planet, humanity, and the world’s economy. Buildings are the largest consumers of fossil fuel energy, significantly contributing to Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and, consequently, to climate change. Reducing their environmental impact is therefore crucial for achieving global sustainability goals. Existing buildings, mostly the historical ones, represent a significant part of the global building stocks, which, for the most part, consist of buildings built more than 70 years ago, which are aged, in a state of deterioration, and in need of intervention. Recovering, renovating, and redeveloping existing and historical buildings could be a formidable instrument for improving the energy quality of the international and national building stocks. When selecting the type of possible interventions to be applied, there are two choices: simple and unsustainable ordinary maintenance versus ecological retrofitting, i.e., a quality increase in the indoor environment and building energy savings using local bio-natural materials. The success of the “Ecological Retrofitting” Strategy strongly relies on its economic and financial sustainability; therefore, the goal of this research is to underline and demonstrate the economic and ecological benefits of the ecological transition at the building level through an integrated valuation applied in a case study, located in Southern Italy. First, in order to demonstrate the ecological benefits of the proposed strategy, the latter was tested through a new energy assessment tool in an updated BIM platform; subsequently, an economic valuation was conducted, clearly demonstrating the cost-effectiveness of the building’s ecological transition. The real-world experiment through the proposed case study achieved important results and reached the goals of the “Ecological Retrofitting” Strategy in existing (but not preserved) liberty-style constructions. First of all, a significant improvement in the buildings’ thermal performance was achieved after some targeted interventions, resulting in energy savings; most importantly, the economic feasibility of the proposed strategy was demonstrated. Full article

This study presents a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of the NENGOUE residence, a multi-occupancy building located in Yaoundé, Cameroon, over an 80-year lifespan. The analysis encompasses four life cycle phases—construction, use, renovation, and deconstruction—and evaluates twelve environmental impact categories. The results reveal that the use phase contributes overwhelmingly to environmental burdens, accounting for over 96% of total impacts. To mitigate this dominance, two alternative scenarios were assessed: a sustainable transport model and the integration of a photovoltaic system. In the first scenario, environmentally friendly commuting strategies, such as increased walking, cycling, and public transport, led to a 17.10% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In the second, rooftop photovoltaics offset 69.29% of the building’s electricity needs, resulting in a 26.72% GHG reduction. A third, combined scenario demonstrated the highest environmental gains, achieving a 42.97% reduction in GHG emissions, alongside substantial improvements across other impact categories, including acidification (−38.4%), cumulative energy demand (−28.3%), and photochemical ozone formation (−40.18%). In addition to the environmental benefits, the study highlights the importance of considering social acceptance, behavioral change, and economic feasibility for real-world implementation. The willingness of residents to adopt sustainable mobility practices, cultural preferences, safety concerns, and the initial cost barriers associated with photovoltaic technology are identified as critical factors. These findings underscore the need for integrated strategies that combine technological innovation with inclusive urban planning and stakeholder engagement. The proposed approach demonstrates that aligning environmental measures with local socio-economic realities can significantly enhance the sustainability of residential buildings, contributing meaningfully to climate change mitigation in Sub-Saharan African cities. Full article

Background: A societal shift in attitudes is going to be required to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the field of transportation, which is crucial to the level of mitigation that can be achieved. There is increasing pressure on policymakers to address climate change and, in turn, to promote sustainable transport. The sector’s decarbonization is essential to meet climate change targets, and alternative powertrains, particularly battery electric trucks, can play a key role. However, international research shows that the solutions and strategic plan proposals are primarily developed in isolation according to the country’s specific conditions. Methods: This study aims to compare battery electric trucks and conventional internal combustion engine trucks in Hungary, focusing on the total cost of ownership over ten years. Results: This study examines the cost parameters for operating electric and conventional trucks, based on current economic conditions. In addition, alternative studies have been carried out to see what additional savings can be expected by changing the parameters under consideration. This research examines four scenarios that model changes in state subsidies, tolls, and excise duties alongside current cost parameters. Conclusions: The results suggest that public policy interventions play a key role in developing sustainable transport systems, particularly to preserve the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises. Full article

The awareness of global warming has boosted research on methods to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Livestock buildings, although essential for food production, represent a sustainability challenge due to their high maintenance energy costs, GHG emissions, and impact on the environment and rural landscapes. Since the environment, cultural heritage, and community identity deserve protection, research trends and current knowledge on livestock buildings, building sustainability, energy efficiency strategies, and landscape management were investigated using the Web of Science and Scopus search tools (2005–2025). Research on these topics was found to be uneven, with limited focus on livestock buildings compared to food production and animal welfare, and significant interest in eco-sustainable building materials. A total of 96 articles were selected after evaluating over 5400 records. The analysis revealed a lack of universally accepted definitions for building design strategies and their rare application to livestock facilities, where passive solutions and insulation prevailed. The application of renewable energy was rare and limited to rural buildings, as was the application of sustainable building materials to livestock, agriculture, and vernacular buildings. Conversely, increased attention was paid to the definition and classification of vernacular architecture features aimed at enhancing existing buildings and mitigating or facilitating the landscape integration of those that diverge most from them. Although not exhaustive, this review identified some knowledge gaps. More efforts are needed to reduce environmental impacts and meet the milestones set by international agreements. Research on building materials could benefit from collaboration with experts in cultural heritage conservation because of their command of traditional materials, durability-enhancing methods, and biodeterioration. Full article

Natural gas purification and the mitigation of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from flue gases are critical steps in alleviating the greenhouse effect and significantly mitigate multiple environmental challenges associated with global warming. Hypercrosslinked polymers (HCPs) have become a hot topic as prospective adsorbents for gas purification and separation, owing to their low cost and scalability. Hence, TPB-Ben, TPB-Nap, and TPB-Ant were synthesized through a solvent knitting strategy, with the modification in the size of the monomers serving as a distinctive feature. This alteration aimed to explore the impact of phenyl ring quantity on the polymers’ gas adsorption and separation efficiency. All HCPs showed outstanding selective separation capability of CO₂ from CO₂/CH₄ and CO₂/N₂ mixtures, such as TPB-Ben-3-2 (CO₂/CH₄: 10.77; CO₂/N₂: 59.72), TPB-Nap-3-2 (CO₂/CH₄: 9.12; CO₂/N₂: 61.31), and TPB-Ant-3-2 (CO₂/CH₄: 10.00; CO₂/N₂: 62.89), which could be potential candidate adsorbents for natural gas purification and CO₂ capture. Considering the mild reaction conditions, low cost, efficient gas adsorption, and the potential for scalable production, these polymers are considered ideal selective solid adsorbents for capturing CO₂. This further highlights the significance of the solvent knitting strategy. Full article

With expanding urban sprawl and the characterization of Australian housing as little more than glorified tents, there is a clear need for expert-informed tools—such as the Green Building Council of Australia’s Communities ratings. But what lessons can be learned from the ratings of recent housing developments? A review of existing cases and supporting materials found low rates of engagement for some criteria and few projects meeting the criteria, with the most direct links being with sustainability. The patterns of scores obtained and criteria addressed appear to reflect many developers placing emphasis on compliance with the minimum standards rather than best practice in sustainability. Notable areas with poor performance include greenhouse gas mitigation strategies, the use of environmentally friendly materials and the sustainability of buildings. Strong, comprehensive education campaigns regarding up-front costs relative to long-term benefits, perhaps more heavily focused on end consumers, may help address some of the hesitancy developers have in engaging with key criteria. However, current rating frameworks fail to account for the pressing need for infill development to address the ‘missing middle’. Perhaps an evolution is needed in sustainability-oriented ratings, such as a mandatory sustainability assessment, that would crystallize the green premium of sustainable housing, thereby harnessing the demand from consumers’ for better quality. Full article