Search

The pulp and paper sector is undertaking several initiatives to decrease the carbon footprint of its industrial activities. To do so, any emission must be offset by introducing efficient carbon fixation strategies such as reforestation and the development of biobased products and processes. The production of drop-in fuels may play an important role in this scenario. Drop-in fuels provide a good way to add value to otherwise underutilized process streams and wastes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimizing other environmental impacts, and improving process sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review proposes, for the first time, a recent overview of ecological information involving electrochemical paper-based analytical devices (ePADs) dedicated to sensing environmental and clinical situations. The options of manufacturing methods are screen printing, stencil printing, pencil drawing, laser scribing, inject-printing, and additive printing. We have covered ecological aspects such as resource efficiency, safety, and toxicity regarding using paper-based (bio) electrodes. To see the ecological impact of testing methods by using ePADs, the Analytical GREEnness (AGREE) approach was utilized as a greenness metric calculator model since the tool makes use of 12 principles of Green Analytical Chemistry. Positive and negative concepts from the revised values of AGREE metric of clinical and environmental analysis were introduced and discussed. Also, we finalize the present review informing the life cycle of ePAD and some challenges that can impact the next generation of disposable electrodes. • The greenness metrics involving paper-based electrochemical (bio)sensors have been reviewed. • Ecological impact for environmental and clinical analysis was introduced using the AGREE approach. • Resource efficiency, safety, and toxicity regarding using paper-based (bio)electrodes are discussed. • The life cycle and challenges that can impact the next generation of disposable electrodes are covered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addressing human-made environmental problems such as deforestation is an ongoing educational challenge. Promising educational approaches include cooperative decision-making and attempt via a high level of motivation to promote pro-environmental behaviors. Knowledge about the forest ecosystem, including its threats, is supposed to strengthen responsibilities and individual behavioral preferences. The "Save the Forests!" module engages students in hands-on learning activities under the frame of an educational Escape Game (Edu Breakout). Based on nine workstations, it includes various cooperative activities focusing on the forest ecosystem, its ecosystem services, and common tree species. Students realize advantages of recycling, gain insight into paper production and associated resource consumption, compare eco-labels for sustainable paper products, and reflect on consumer decisions. Additionally, the students learn about habitat situations after clear-cutting, forest fires, or storm damages (succession), including strategies for dealing with deadwood based on scientific data. Besides experiments and challenging tasks, students learn about the ecological footprint and greenwashing by clarifying often-used terms in sustainability contexts. In an accompanied quantitative study approach, students participating in the learning module significantly increased their knowledge scores in a pre-post comparison (n = 135, p < 0.001, d = 0.58). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Although paper production demonstrates high energy and water sensitivity in their life cycles, only a few systematic analyses have focused on these issues. Therefore, an energy and carbon coupled water footprint analysis of five types of Kraft wood pulp-based paper (i.e., specialty-, art-, household-, light coated-, and tissue paper) is conducted in this study to help improve the environmental performance of the paper industry. All investigations are conducted with an impact-oriented approach based on ISO standards. Results show that elemental-chlorine-free bleaching is more environmentally friendly than chlorination-alkaline extraction-hypochlorite bleaching, specifically for global warming, aquatic eutrophication, and human health (i.e., carcinogens and non-carcinogens). Gray water footprint along whole life cycles of each product is approximately twice of blue water footprint. Direct processes contribute approximately 50% to water scarcity, while their impact on aquatic eutrophication ranges from 0.002% to 50.72%. For other midpoints, indirect processes dominate the influences. Meanwhile, COD, BOD 5 , CO 2 , TP, Cr (Ⅵ), Ti, Hg, and As are key contributors. Finally, reusing sludge by direct burning in the recovery furnace, reclaiming organic compounds in black liquor before alkali recycling, and integrating black liquor gasification technology are expected to provide substantial environmental benefits. Amelioration of wastewater treatment, optimization of the national energy structure, and improvement of the efficiency of chemicals and freshwater are recommended. Highlights • Energy and carbon coupled water footprint analysis of Kraft pulp paper is applied. • The environmental benefit of black liquor recovery is dominated by reused alkali. • Direct processes contribute a lot to water scarcity and aquatic eutrophication. • COD, BOD, TP, and heavy metals are key substances. • Optimizing waste reuse and availability efficiency of chemicals is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper products are carbon-intensive and having a huge potential for carbon reduction due to their biomass-oriented characteristics. A uniform standard for total carbon footprint (CF) accounting is vital. However, the existing standards have not yet been unified. Inconsistencies between standards cause difficulties in their use and significantly weaken the credibility and comparability of the carbon footprint of a product (CFP). This work rethought the three most widely used standards (Publicly Available Specification 2050 (PAS2050), Product Life Cycle Accounting and Reporting Standard (GHG Protocol), and Product Life Cycle Accounting and Reporting Standard (ISO14067)) from the life-cycle perspective, and established a more appropriate and comprehensive CF accounting standard for paper products (CFASPP). Sanitary pads were selected as a case study to illustrate the discrepancies between PAS 2050, the GHG Protocol, ISO 14067, and CFASPP, for which the annual production CF results were 1424.60, 1481.08, 1453.57, and 1427.04 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO 2 e) respectively. The main reasons for the different CF results were the cut-off criteria and the inclusion or exclusion of carbon storage, delayed emissions, and energy recovery. Each element increased or decreased 22.57 (carbon storage), 29.96 (cut-off criteria), 10.4 (delayed emissions), and 27.52 (incineration with energy recovery) tons of CO 2 e in the results. With increasing demand, these discrepancies will become increasingly significant and may lead to corporations shouldering more or less carbon emission responsibilities by selecting different standards, which will challenge the fairness of product carbon neutrality management. CFASPP covers all paper product life-cycle stages and places greater emphasis on the aspects of carbon storage, delayed emissions, and energy recovery in incineration, which cannot be ignored for the CF accounting of paper products and other biomass-oriented products. This study aims to provide a more applicable and comprehensive guide for corporations to evaluate the CF of paper products, and to provide a reference for the construction of a carbon-neutral evaluation system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the printing and packaging industry, sustainability is defined as manufacture and practices that reflect responsibility for the environment and resources to meet the needs and expectations of future generations. In this article, raw material management, cellulose resources, industrial forests, ecological and renewable alternative fiber resources were examined in the framework of the sustainability of the printing and packaging industry. The recycling of printed materials and packaging and the effects of paper-ink types and product design in this recycling have been discussed. The effect of separation and processing at the source on the efficiency of paper recycling, economy and ecology was emphasized. The greenhouse gas emissions of solvents used in inks and cleaners, the impact on climate change, water footprint and carbon footprint issues were examined. Suggestions have been made on environmental sustainability in the printing industry, what needs to be done for a competitive production, successful optimization, minimization of waste, use of existing possibilities, recycling and evaluation of alternatives and use of clean energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China is the largest paper producer and consumer in the world. However, China's paper industry is inefficient in its consumption of natural resources. Whereas the proportion of wood pulp used by the paper industry in developed countries is up to 63%, the corresponding figure for China is only 23%, leading to high energy and water consumption and severe environmental pollution. This article presents a systematic risk analysis using life cycle assessment and carbon footprint calculation associated with China's straw-pulp and wood-pulp paper industries. Risk prevention measures are proposed based on the results of this analysis. The study has important ramifications for the sustainable development of China's paper industry. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The topic of electric vehicles is currently generating significant interest worldwide. They are beneficial for the environment as they save up fuel, reduce pollution and carbon footprint too, but their market consumption is at the nascent level. The demand for these electric vehicles in developing countries is currently very slow and not that steady. The importance of Electric Vehicles (EVs) in the upcoming future is high and so it is crucial to figure out why these EVs are not being sold as much as we expect them in the market today. This paper tries to find out the multiple reasons why these vehicles are not in high demand, and why their counterparts, gasoline-fuelled vehicles are more in demand in the market. This paper discusses, after reviewing multiple other papers, why the consumption of EVs is low. Why their market demand is not where it should be and also multiple other facets. Finally, the paper finds that reasons like higher costs and low government incentives among multiple others are some factors leading to a low market demand for EVs. Also, the paper discusses the future scope of these EVs and how we can increase their consumption in the market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• First record of the presence of P. gatunense in South Africa. • Reappearance of P. bipes , last reported from South Africa during the 1930s. • Both are potential bloom-forming associated with several problems. • The morphology, taxonomy geographical distribution and limited ecology are discussed. The common freshwater dinoflagellate genus Peridinium includes the species P. gatunense and P. bipes , which are found globally. Despite forming a significant portion of algal communities, research on dinoflagellates in Africa is limited. This paper reports the first record of the presence of P. gatunense in South Africa, as well as the reappearance of P. bipes , which was last reported from South Africa during the 1930s. Light and scanning electron microscopy were used for species identification. Knowledge about the presence of these species is crucial because both are potential bloom-forming and associated with several problems having ecological impacts. The presence of both these species has potential in inhibiting the growth of the problematic cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa , as demonstrated by previous studies. It may present a natural and effective solution for the remediation of water bodies subjected to harmful cyanobacterial blooms. These insights are crucial for proactive management of freshwater ecosystems in the country. This paper discusses the morphology, taxonomy, geographical distribution, and some ecological aspects of P. gatunense and P. bipes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conducting an assessment of ecosystem service values and examining the influence of changes in land utilization on these values in Chengdu City help to deepen our comprehension of the ecological and environmental impacts of such changes. This, in turn, provides valuable insights into the construction of an ecological civilization and the sustainable utilization of land resources in Chengdu City. Based on land-use data from 2005 to 2020, this paper employs a dynamic model of land-use change, the land-use structure change index method, and an ecosystem service value measurement model to analyze the impact of land-use change on ecosystem service value in Chengdu City. The results showed that (1) the area of construction land in Chengdu City increased and those of cultivated land and unused land decreased; (2) from 2005 to 2014, the ecosystem service value in Chengdu City witnessed a rise of 1.559 billion yuan, while from 2014 to 2020, it experienced a decline of 947.77 million yuan; and (3) the sensitivity index of the ecosystem value shows that forest land contributes the most to the total value of ecosystem services. This paper comprehensively analyzes the impact of land-use change in Chengdu City from 2005 to 2020 on the ecosystem service value. It offers a reference foundation for advancing the efficient allocation of land resources in Chengdu City and nurturing the balanced and sustainable development of the economy and ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the carbon footprint of agricultural production has been a hot issue in the research on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction in China. Based on the statistical data of yield, sown area and agricultural production inputs in 14 wheat-growing provinces from 2015 to 2020, authors calculated the carbon footprint of inputs for wheat life cycle, studied the dynamic changes of carbon footprint of wheat life cycle and analyzed the proportion of carbon footprint for different agricultural inputs, and revealed the change rule of carbon footprint for wheat life cycle and the composition of emission sources. These results can provide a theoretical basis for realizing energy conservation and emission reduction in agricultural production and green low-carbon development. The results showed that the average carbon footprint per unit area and the average carbon footprint per unit yield of wheat life cycle in 14 provinces from 2015 to 2020 were 4315.4 kgCO2eq.ha-1 and 999.4 kgCO2eq.t-1, respectively, which showed a downward trend. The average carbon footprint per unit area and the average carbon footprint per unit yield of wheat life cycle in Shanxi province and Shaanxi province in northern winter (autumn sowing) wheat production region, the Inner Mongolia autonomous region and the Ningxia Hui autonomous region in spring wheat production region, and winter-spring wheat production area (Xinjiang) were higher than the average annual level of the total study regions in this paper. While the average carbon footprint per unit area and the average carbon footprint per unit yield of wheat life cycle in southern winter (autumn sowing) wheat production region (Sichuan, Jiangsu, Anhui and Hubei), Heilongjiang province and Gansu province in spring wheat production region and Shandong province and Henan province in northern winter (autumn sowing) wheat production region were lower than the average annual level of the total study regions of this paper. In the carbon footprint structure of wheat life cycle, the average carbon footprint of irrigation electricity, chemical fertilizer, diesel fuel, wheat seed and pesticides accounted for 34.2%, 51.6%, 7.3%, 3.7% and 3.2%, indicating that chemical fertilizer and irrigation electricity were the main sources of agricultural carbon footprint. Chemical fertilizer was the main source of agricultural carbon footprint in Southern winter (autumn sowing) wheat production region (Jiangsu, Anhui, Hubei and Sichuan), with an average proportion of 76.6%, 71.3%, 69.6% and 70.0%, respectively. Therefore, reducing chemical fertilizer input and increasing utilization efficiency were important emission reduction measures in these regions. Meanwhile, irrigation electricity was the main source of agricultural carbon footprint in Hebei province and Shanxi province in northern winter (autumn sowing) wheat production region and winter-spring wheat production region (Xinjiang), with an average proportion of 45.6%, 54.8% and 65.2%. Therefore, promoting the application of water-saving irrigation and developing low-energy-consuming machinery and equipment were important emission reduction measures in these regions. In short, reducing chemical fertilizer input and promoting water-saving irrigation technology to reduce the carbon footprint of wheat life cycle in study regions were effective management measures, and considering regional socio-economic and agricultural conditions of each province, formulating targeted measures to reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions is the key to promote the green and low-carbon development of agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper highlights and honors the connectivity among protistan researchers, using my own research journey as a backdrop, with attention to the supply chain of ideas, supporters, and other influencers who helped to shape and guide my career by sharing their ideas, protocols, skills, and enthusiasm. In looking back at the journey, the supply chain in my career has also included changes in the conceptual framework for my research studies, converging with a continuous flow of ideas and support from colleagues and mentors. To illustrate the complex map of ideas and supporters, this paper will examine technological advances, paradigm shifts in ecological constructs, geographical considerations, breakthroughs in peritrich biology, and the importance of an integrated perspective as we navigate the changing realities of today's scientific challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Chemical pulp is one of the most important raw materials used in the paper industry. This material is known to make a significant contribution to the water footprint and cost of final paper products; therefore, chemical pulp is crucial in determining the competitiveness of final products'. Several studies have focused on these aspects, but there have been no previous reports on the integrated application of raw material water footprint accounting and costs in the definition of the optimal supply mix of chemical pulps from different countries. The current models that have been applied specifically to the paper industry are based mainly on general sectorial data; therefore, they cannot reflect the importance of the efficiency of the different processes in the supply chain of paper production. The objective of this study was to develop a multi-objective optimization model to identify the supply mix that minimizes the water footprint accounting results and costs of chemical pulp, thereby facilitating the assessment of the water footprint by accounting for different chemical pulps purchased from various suppliers, with a focus on the efficiency of the production process. Water footprint accounting was adapted to better represent the efficiency of pulp and paper production. A multi-objective model for supply mix optimization was also developed using multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). Water footprint accounting confirmed the importance of the production efficiency of chemical pulp, which affected the final results, with an average factor of 4.7 m3 wood/t paper. The MCDA that we developed was used to determine the optimal mix of chemical pulps from different countries, which demonstrated how the optimal mix changed when considering only one of the two variables. Herein, we also discuss the latest developments in impact assessments related to water based on a life cycle assessment, which should be used as a framework for the future development of the model that is presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We are witnessing an explosion in carbon calculators for estimating the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (i.e., carbon footprint) of households, buildings, cities, and processes. Seeking to capitalize on the emergent 'green' consumer, corporations are leading the next iteration in carbon footprinting: consumer products. This potentially lucrative low-carbon frontier, however, faces steep challenges due to complexities of scale, largely a function of the number of actors and geographies involved in globalized commodity and energy networks, and scope, which increasingly demands inclusion of emissions due to land use change (e.g., biofuel production, timber harvest, livestock grazing, mining). Life cycle assessment (LCA)-the principal method behind product-level GHG emissions footprint protocols-frequently avoids these challenges by narrowly delineating system boundaries, thereby excluding the 'messiness' of space and place. Through a comparative model of energy sources and emissions in the globalized paper industry, this article reveals how complexities associated with geographic variation and land use change create indeterminacy in footprints based on these protocols. Using industry and trade data, the authors develop geographic information system transportation and energy models to map the globally dispersed pulp supply networks and to rescale Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change GHG inventory guidelines to include carbon loss associated with land use change in the carbon footprint of coated paper. Given their integrative abilities to conceptualize and model coupled human-ecological systems, sophisticated understanding of time-space dynamics and critical theoretical insights, geographers have much to contribute to the LCA and product carbon footprinting enterprise, which to date has been largely the intellectual domain of engineers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article the author discusses the benefits of reducing paper in the practice of law the mitigate the carbon footprint of the legal profession. The move toward the adoption of electronic files instead of paper files is recommended. The advantages of using email and scanning systems for law practitioners are cited, including space savings and greater flexibility. The author also discusses relevant issues on using electronic files such as improving backup and keeping track of documents.

The action required to stem the environmental and social implications of climate change depends crucially on how humankind shapes technology, economy, lifestyle and policy. With transport CO2 emissions accounting for about a quarter of the total, we examine the contribution of CO2 output by scientific travel. Thankfully for the reputation of the scientific community, CO2 emissions associated with the trips required to present a paper at a scientific conference account for just 0.003% of the yearly total. However, with CO2 emissions for a single conference trip amounting to 7% of an average individual’s total CO2 emissions, scientists should lead by example by demonstrating leadership in addressing the issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a nutrient rich emulsion extracted from plant materials, plant-based milk (PBM) has been the latest trend and hot topic in the food industry due to the growing awareness of consumers toward plant-based products in managing the environmental (carbon footprint and land utility), ethical (animal well-fare) and societal (health-conscious) issues. There have been extensive studies and reviews done to discuss the distinct perspective of PBM including its production, health effects and market acceptance. However, not much has been emphasized on the valuable antioxidants present in PBM which is one of the attributes making them stand apart from dairy milk. The amounts of antioxidants in PBM are important. They offered tremendous health benefits in maintaining optimum health and reducing the risk of various health disorders. Therefore, enhancing the extraction of antioxidants and preserving their activity during production and storage is important. However, there is a lack of a comprehensive review of how these antioxidants changes in response to different processing steps involved in PBM production. Presumably, antioxidants in PBM could be potentially lost due to thermal degradation, oxidation or leaching into processing water. Hence, this paper aims to fill the gaps by addressing an extensive review of how different production steps (germination, roasting, soaking, blanching, grinding and filtration, and microbial inactivation) affect the antioxidant content in PBM. In addition, the effect of different microbial inactivation treatments (thermal or non-thermal processing) on the alteration of antioxidant in PBM was also highlighted. This paper can provide useful insight for the industry that aims in selecting suitable processing steps to produce PBM products that carry with them a health declaration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) is one of the biggest international efforts aimed at better understanding the past, present, and future of climate changes in a multi-model context. A total of 21 model intercomparison projects (MIPs) were endorsed in its sixth phase (CMIP6), which included 190 different experiments that were used to simulate 40 000 years and produced around 40 PB of data in total. This paper presents the main findings obtained from the CPMIP (the Computational Performance Model Intercomparison Project), a collection of a common set of metrics, specifically designed for assessing climate model performance. These metrics were exclusively collected from the production runs of experiments used in CMIP6 and primarily from institutions within the IS-ENES3 consortium. The document presents the full set of CPMIP metrics per institution and experiment, including a detailed analysis and discussion of each of the measurements. During the analysis, we found a positive correlation between the core hours needed, the complexity of the models, and the resolution used. Likewise, we show that between 5 %–15 % of the execution cost is spent in the coupling between independent components, and it only gets worse by increasing the number of resources. From the data, it is clear that queue times have a great impact on the actual speed achieved and have a huge variability across different institutions, ranging from none to up to 78 % execution overhead. Furthermore, our evaluation shows that the estimated carbon footprint of running such big simulations within the IS-ENES3 consortium is 1692 t of CO 2 equivalent. As a result of the collection, we contribute to the creation of a comprehensive database for future community reference, establishing a benchmark for evaluation and facilitating the multi-model, multi-platform comparisons crucial for understanding climate modelling performance. Given the diverse range of applications, configurations, and hardware utilised, further work is required for the standardisation and formulation of general rules. The paper concludes with recommendations for future exercises aimed at addressing the encountered challenges which will facilitate more collections of a similar nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of this study was to define a procedure useful to evaluate the potential environmental, social and economic benefits contained in paper and cardboard (or other recyclables), which are wasted in the unsorted fraction of municipal solid waste (MSW). To give a practical example, the procedure was applied to the 550 municipalities of the Campania region, in Southern Italy, but the developed procedure is applicable in any context in an 'urban mining' perspective. The procedure consists of five phases and uses two methodologies: one for the estimation of the composition analysis of the unsorted residual waste and another for the calculation of sustainability indicators able to measure the benefits wasted in the unsorted residual MSW. Six indicators were defined: two for the environment (carbon footprint and ecological footprint), two for the society (health footprint and occupational benefits) and two for the economy (economic profit and economic saving). The first methodology was developed by the regional environmental protection agency to update the MSW regional management plan. The second methodology is based on the use of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) through which it was possible to calculate the reference parameters useful for the calculation of the impacts (i.e., loss of benefits) for recycling, mechanical and biological treatment (MBT), incineration and landfilling of paper and cardboard contained in the unsorted residual waste. The obtained results confirmed the presence of such an enormous deposit of recyclable materials contained in the unsorted residual waste, which is a potential source, but not exploited, of environmental, social and economic benefits. For instance, the paper and cardboard 'urban mine' of Naples was greater than 16 million of euro (economic profit + economic saving), with a potential saving of around 11.4 million of kgCO 2 eq. (carbon footprint), 207 million of m2 (ecological footprint), 44 Disability Adjusted Life Years (health footprint), with a creation of 30 job positions in the waste management sector (occupational benefits). [Display omitted] • A procedure consisting of five phases was developed using two methodologies. • One methodology estimates the composition analysis of the unsorted residual waste. • Another methodology used a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach. • Two indicators for the environment, two for the society and two for the economy. • The paper and cardboard 'urban mine' of Naples was greater than 16 million of euro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Huge amounts of waste paper are discarded every year, of which only a minute fraction is recycled and the rest is dumped in landfills. Paper fibres can only be recycled a limited number of times before they become too short or weak to make high-quality recycled paper. This eventually adds to the amount of waste paper being generated and not recycled. It would thus be advantageous to use this waste as a low-cost sustainable construction material and make it a value-added product. In this study, Portland pozzolana cement (fly ash based), waste newsprint paper and water were used to prepare paper concrete cubes. Initially, investigations were performed to determine the optimum soaking time required for softening the paper fibres of the newsprint paper. The study mainly addressed the strength and weight loss of the paper concrete cubes with age. The results indicate that, at 28 d, the paper concrete lost 25-50% of its initial weight and a maximum cubic compressive strength of 5·40 MPa was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Karaka (Corynocarpus laevigatus J.R. Forst. & G. Forst.) is an endemic New Zealand tree species that attracts polarising views and controversy. Prior to the arrival of humans in New Zealand, karaka was probably restricted to warmer areas of the northern North Island, but it now occurs throughout much of New Zealand, including on Rēkohu/Chatham Island (where it is known as kōpi). Genetic analyses have shed light on the evolutionary origins of karaka and its translocation history. Karaka holds significant cultural and historical value for Māori and Moriori, but it is also viewed as an environmental weed outside its natural range due to its capacity to outcompete resident native vegetation and disrupt local ecosystems. Karaka fruit can be toxic to dogs and other animals, including humans, if not prepared correctly before consumption. The management of karaka in New Zealand presents a unique challenge that exemplifies the complexities inherent in balancing cultural values with ecological integrity. The aim of this paper is to bring together all these different perspectives and explore avenues for future management strategies that accommodate both the cultural significance and the ecological impact of karaka. An informed, culturally sensitive management strategy that involves mana whenua can pave the way for a future where both cultural and ecological aspects of the karaka tree are given due consideration where appropriate. Such an approach could also inform the management of other native plant species that become invasive outside their natural range both in New Zealand and internationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Breastfeeding (BF) is the healthiest form of nutrition for babies and is recommended exclusively (EBF) for at least the first six months of life. The carbon footprint of formula feeding (FF) has been studied, but that of BF is unknown. Aim: To identify the environmental impact of three types of infant feeding taking into account the accessories needed and the diet of postpartum women in the baby's first month of life. Methods: This is a multicentre, cross-sectional study conducted in the Barcelona North Metropolitan Area (Catalonia, Spain). The participating sites are primary care settings that will recruit 408 postpartum women (4–6 weeks) as per inclusion/exclusion criteria. The data will be collected through a GREEN MOTHER Survey that includes 4 dimensions: 1) socio-demographic and clinical data; 2) data on the newborn and accessories used in infant feeding; 3) general data on the mother's diet (food consumption habits), and 4) recording of 24 h of the mother's diet. The data analysis will be performed to check the prevalence of infant feeding types at birth and month 1, as well as a comparative analysis of three types of infant feeding on environmental impact (climate change; water consumption, and scarcity). Ethics. This project was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Jordi Gol i Gurina University Institute Foundation for Primary Health Care Research (IDIAP) under code 22/101-P dated 22/02/2023. Discussion: A second phase of the GREEN MOTHER study is planned, which will consist of an educational intervention to promote breastfeeding, nutrition and sustainability. This intervention will be based on the results obtained in Phase I. We expect that the project results – through the publication and dissemination of scientific papers and reports among relevant stakeholders (association of community midwives, healthcare and primary care attention professionals and the public) – will increase public awareness of breastfeeding and its impact on sustainability. Trial registration: Both phases of the GREEN MOTHER study protocol were registered in ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05729581. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Breastfeeding (BF) is the healthiest form of nutrition for babies and is recommended exclusively (EBF) for at least the first six months of life. The carbon footprint of formula feeding (FF) has been studied, but that of BF is unknown. Aim: To identify the environmental impact of three types of infant feeding taking into account the accessories needed and the diet of postpartum women in the baby's first month of life. Methods: This is a multicentre, cross-sectional study conducted in the Barcelona North Metropolitan Area (Catalonia, Spain). The participating sites are primary care settings that will recruit 408 postpartum women (4–6 weeks) as per inclusion/exclusion criteria. The data will be collected through a GREEN MOTHER Survey that includes 4 dimensions: 1) socio-demographic and clinical data; 2) data on the newborn and accessories used in infant feeding; 3) general data on the mother's diet (food consumption habits), and 4) recording of 24 h of the mother's diet. The data analysis will be performed to check the prevalence of infant feeding types at birth and month 1, as well as a comparative analysis of three types of infant feeding on environmental impact (climate change; water consumption, and scarcity). Ethics. This project was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Jordi Gol i Gurina University Institute Foundation for Primary Health Care Research (IDIAP) under code 22/101-P dated 22/02/2023. Discussion: A second phase of the GREEN MOTHER study is planned, which will consist of an educational intervention to promote breastfeeding, nutrition and sustainability. This intervention will be based on the results obtained in Phase I. We expect that the project results – through the publication and dissemination of scientific papers and reports among relevant stakeholders (association of community midwives, healthcare and primary care attention professionals and the public) – will increase public awareness of breastfeeding and its impact on sustainability. Trial registration: Both phases of the GREEN MOTHER study protocol were registered in ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05729581. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asphalt binder is the most common material used in road construction. However, the need for more durable and safer pavements requires a better understanding of asphalt's aging mechanisms and how its characteristics can be improved. The current challenge for the road industry is to use renewable materials (i.e., biomaterials not subjected to depletion) as a partial replacement for petroleum-based asphalt, which leads to reducing the carbon footprint. The most promising is to utilize biomaterials following the principles of sustainability in the modification of the asphalt binder. However, to understand whether the application of renewable materials represents a reliable and viable solution or just a research idea, this review covers various techniques for extracting bio-oil and preparing bio-modified asphalt binders, technical aspects including physical properties of different bio-oils, the impact of bio-oil addition on asphalt binder performance, and the compatibility of bio-oils with conventional binders. Key findings indicate that bio-oil can enhance modified asphalt binders' low-temperature performance and aging resistance. However, the effect on high-temperature performance varies based on the bio-oil source and preparation method. The paper concludes that while bio-oils show promise as renewable modifiers for asphalt binders, further research is needed to optimize their use and fully understand their long-term performance implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biobanks have become an integral part of health and bioscience research. However, the ultra-low temperature (ULT) storage methods that biobanks employ [ULT freezers and liquid nitrogen (LN2)] are associated with carbon emissions that contribute to anthropogenic climate change. This paper aims to provide a 'Roadmap' for reducing carbon emissions associated with ULT storage in biobanking. The Roadmap offers recommendations associated with nine areas of ULT storage practice: four relating to ULT freezers, three associated with LN2 storage, and two generalised discussions regarding biosample management and centralisation. For each practice, we describe (a) the best approaches to mitigate carbon emissions, (b) explore barriers associated with hindering their implementation, and (c) make a series of recommendations that can help biobank stakeholders overcome these barriers. The recommendations were the output of a one year, UK-based, multidisciplinary research project that involved a quantitative Carbon Footprinting Assessment of the emissions associated with 1 year of ULT storage (for both freezers and LN2) at four different case study sites; as well as two follow up stakeholder workshops to qualitatively explore UK biobank stakeholder perceptions, views, and experiences on how to consider such assessments within the broader social, political, financial, technical, and cultural contexts of biobanking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South Africa is an energy-intensive developing country in Africa and ranked as the 1st and 14th emitter of greenhouse gas (GHG) in Africa and the world, respectively. The abundance and availability of coal in South Africa make it the mainstay primary source of energy contributing 56% of national total GHG emissions. This paper focused on the duo of energy generation and emission associated with coal processing and utilization in South Africa, and the urgent need to advance coal processing technologies marked by high carbon footprints in consonance with the sustainable development goals. Different gasification techniques and their performances have been compiled and discussed. The economic, environmental impact, energetic, and exergetic characteristics of existing hydrogen production technologies for renewable and non-renewable energy sources have been examined along with hydrogen production from plasma gasification of coal. Hydrogen production via coal or coal/biomass plasma gasification technology (nuclear-, wind-, PV solar-, and concentrated solar power-driven) in addition to carbon capture technology for transforming the captured CO 2 into value-added products appears to be the most viable option to considerably reduce emissions and meet the energy demand of South Africa. This proposed technology can be pivotal to achieving a low-carbon economy (medium-term) and transition to hydrogen economy (long-term) as championed by the global sustainable development agenda. Conclusively, hydrogen (stored in different forms e.g., liquid hydrogen, ammonia, and organic hydride) seems to find more applications (in the space industry, transport, energy storage, defense industry, etc.) than coal owing to its immediate use in distribution/demand centers and remote areas. • Coal is the primary energy source of South Africa and key driver of national CO 2 emissions. • Traditional coal gasification technologies are marked by high CO 2 emissions. • Coal plasma gasification technology is a viable option for low-carbon energy economy. • Hydrogen production via coal or coal/biomass plasma gasification technology leads to zero-carbon economy. • This immensely supports the drive towards attaining the sustainable development goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tourism is an important and almost certainly increasing driver of anthropogenic climate change. However, intelligence on the total greenhouse gas emissions related to tourism trips – including travel to and from the destination – is limited, especially at sub-national destination scale. This paper uses an environmentally extended input-output approach to estimate the total greenhouse gas emissions consequent on inbound and domestic tourism trips in Wales, a region of the UK. We use the UN World Tourism Organisation (TSA) concept of visitors and trips to estimate the overall carbon footprint of tourism at around 3.4 megatons in 2019, 8.7% of total territorial emissions. We further compare these results with estimates for 2007 which suggests that there has been a modest reduction of under 2% per annum since 2007, but with significant data issues affecting comparability. Apparently slow progress in decarbonisation, including an increase in intercontinental visits to Wales over the period, suggest tourism here has not yet embarked upon a climate-responsible transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The healthcare system plays a pivotal role in environmental sustainability, and the operating room (OR) significantly contributes to its overall carbon footprint. In response to this critical challenge, leading medical societies, government bodies, regulatory agencies, and industry stakeholders are taking measures to address healthcare sustainability and its impact on climate change. Healthcare now represents almost 20% of the US national economy and 8.5% of US carbon emissions. Internationally, healthcare represents 5% of global carbon emissions. US Healthcare is an outlier in both per capita cost, and per capita greenhouse gas emission, with almost twice per capita emissions compared to every other country in the world. Methods: The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) and the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES) established the Sustainability in Surgical Practice joint task force in 2023. This collaborative effort aims to actively promote education, mitigation, and innovation, steering surgical practices toward a more sustainable future. Results: Several key initiatives have included a survey of members' knowledge and awareness, a scoping review of terminology, metrics, and initiatives, and deep engagement of key stakeholders. Discussion: This position paper serves as a Call to Action, proposing a series of actions to catalyze and accelerate the surgical sustainability leadership needed to respond effectively to climate change, and to lead the societal transformation towards health that our times demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on LCA life cycle method and IPCC factor method, an accounting method for product carbon footprint of copper smelting enterprises is proposed. Taking Guixi Smelter as the template, the whole process of copper smelting and the short process of miscellaneous copper smelting as the accounting object, and each production process as the accounting unit, the carbon footprint of the whole process of copper smelting is calculated. The analysis result shows that the carbon footprint of purchased electricity from copper smelting process accounts for 86. 64 %, and the carbon footprint of purchased electricity from recycled copper smelting process accounts for 53. 8%, which is the main contributor to the carbon footprint of copper smelting products* Based on the results of carbon footprint calculation, this paper puts forward the emission reduction link and optimization path of copper smelting enterprises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we take an axiomatic approach to the design of ecological footprint indices. Our focus is put on the heterogeneity of land with respect to types and regions, at the core of an inherent aggregation problem. We propose an axiomatic characterization of the ecological footprint index with two fundamentally new axioms, symmetry and independence, which can resolve the problem of land heterogeneity. It is shown that a unique index, up to an affine transformation, exists meeting the axiom system. This index simplifies the aggregation procedure considerably and avoids the need for a synthetic unit of measurement, like global hectares, as well as complex transformations of variables by means of weighting schemes. Our findings reveal differences with the Global Footprint Network (GFN) index, in particular with regard to the treatment of land heterogeneity. Finally, the axiomatic methodology employed may open up perspectives for the development of ecological measures in general, and especially of measures for sustainability and tipping points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In light of the post-genomic era, epigenetics brings about an opportunity to better understand how the molecular machinery works and is led by a complex dynamic set of mechanisms, often intricate and complementary in many aspects. In particular, epigenetics links developmental biology and genetics, as well as many other areas of knowledge. The present work highlights substantial scopes and relevant discoveries related to the development of the term from its first notions. To our understanding, the concept of epigenetics needs to be revisited, as it is one of the most relevant and multifaceted terms in human knowledge. To redirect future novel experimental or theoretical efforts, it is crucial to compile all significant issues that could impact human and ecological benefit in the most precise and accurate manner. In this paper, the reader can find one of the widest compilations of the landmarks and epistemic considerations of the knowledge of epigenetics across the history of biology from the earliest epigenetic formulation to genetic determinism until the present. In the present work, we link the current body of knowledge and earlier pre-genomic concepts in order to propose a new definition of epigenetics that is faithful to its regulatory nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The commercial use of polymers has expanded considerably in recent decades, resulting in exponential expansion in the polymer production business. As a result, polymer recycling is critical to the circular economy's sustainability. Governments and organizations are making significant efforts to reduce the carbon footprint generated by the use of synthetic polymers. Organizations such as the United Nations routinely launch initiatives worldwide to educate people and limit plastic manufacture. UNEP aims to reduce plastic output by 80% by 2040 by establishing a circular economy between the production and use of plastic. The manufacturing industry likewise takes huge steps to lessen its reliance on plastic. The industry is developing new ways and technologies to recycle these polymers sustainably. This paper studies and examines waste thermoplastic and thermoset material recycling initiatives made by other researchers. Various forms of recycling, primary, secondary, thermal, chemical, and biological are explored along with the sustainability of that particular recycling technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst the ongoing low‐carbon transition, the phenomenon of population aging is receiving increasing attention. Nevertheless, the relationship between population aging and environmental quality has not been conclusively established, and existing studies have yet to delve into the mechanism of the effect of population aging on energy and environmental quality. This paper utilizes the panel data of 30 Chinese provinces and regions from 2000 to 2019 and constructs the benchmark model, the nonlinear mediating effect, and the nonlinear moderating effect models to explore the nonlinear association between population aging and energy footprint, respectively. Additionally, we develop a comprehensive aging index employing principal component analysis (PCA) and measure the energy footprint by carbon sink approach. The results show that population aging has a nonlinear effect on the energy footprint with an inverted “U” shape and there is an inflection point on the curve of value 0.453. We also verify that population aging indirectly affects the energy footprint through its nonlinear impact on labor productivity, with an instantaneous mediating effect of 3.0902. Furthermore, the high‐quality economic development has a nonlinear moderating impact on the inverted “U”‐shape between population aging and energy footprint. As the level of high‐quality economic development increases, the shape of the inverted “U” curve flattens out, and the inflection point shifts to the left. Among the five sub‐indicators of high‐quality economic development, green development has the most significant effect on the inverted “U” curve of population aging and energy footprint. These noteworthy findings offer valuable insights for formulating effective strategies to enhance the favorable effects of aging on environmental quality from multifaceted perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil samples from wild solid waste dumpsites were collected in the Bijeljina-Zvornik region (Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina), and the concentrations potentionally toxic metals (Ni, Cr, Mn, Zn, Cu, Pb, Cd, Fe and Al). The disposal of waste at wild dumpsites has emerged as a serious environmental challenge affecting both developed and developing countries. This paper aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the complex issue of wild dumpsites, focusing on the contamination of the environment with toxic metals. The improper disposal of solid waste has become a global concern, with wild dumpsites being a significant component of the problem. In accordance with national legislation, the mean values for Cd and Ni exceeded the limit values. Very strong positive correlations are observed between Zn and Cu, between Cd and Pb and between Ni and Cr. The ecological risk assessments for Mn are extremely high; for Ni and Pb, they are high; for Zn, Cu and Cr, they are appreciable; and for Cd, they are moderate. The Pollution Load Index (PLI) and Contamination Factor were used to evaluate metal pollution in soil samples. PLI values exceeding 1.0 in five samples signify soil pollution, supported by mean values indicating contamination. Research findings reveal different contamination levels, with Pb, Cr, Cu, and Zn at low levels, and Ni and Cd at moderate levels. The visualized results of ecological risk assessments for heavy metals in the soil underscore the critical importance of continuous monitoring and effective management of heavy metals at illegal dumpsites to preserve and protect surrounding ecosystems. The use of Surfer 12 software and the kriging method has proven to be an invaluable tool for exploring the spatial distribution of toxic metals in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This conceptual paper proposes that all methodologies create a footprint like the carbon footprint. Design and implementation of new methodologies require limited resources and funding, and these resources are not equitably distributed on a global scale. Thus, we argue for more ecological uses of methodologies, especially in the context of data collection and interdependent relations of knowledge/information creation. Like the excessive use of energy sources, potentially unnecessary productions of new data, information, and evidence should not be regarded as unproblematic, let alone virtuous. Rather, qualitative researchers, funding agencies, and other bodies that evaluate research, should question whether new data, information, evidence are needed and at what cost. We also propose more data recycling, data sharing, open access data, and other ecological ways of supporting shared knowledge and monitoring excessive data production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factors influencing the carbon footprint of anchoring systems using the example of a soil nailing system Sustainability is an increasingly important issue in the construction industry. The desire for greater sustainability is often pitted against the demand for high quality. After all, the quality of building products not only affects our daily well‐being, but quality in construction primarily stands for safety, load‐bearing capacity and serviceability of building components – as all involved in construction are inevitably taught during their training. There is often a preconception that sustainability and the demand for high quality are at odds with each other. The aim of this paper is to address the issue of sustainability in geotechnical anchoring systems and to identify and evaluate the factors influencing the carbon footprint. Using soil nailing as an example, it is shown that steel and its production, as well as cement, play a crucial role. By choosing the right soil nailing system, the user has a significant influence on the quality and sustainability of geotechnical anchoring systems. In addition, the paper will show how optimisation potential can be exploited in practice. Last but not least, a practical construction project will illustrate the amount of CO2 that can be saved by choosing the ideal anchoring system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• It is feasable to use traditional hewing methods to produce beams for the structural repair of cultural heritage buildings. • It takes approximately 45 min per meter to hew squared beams 18 × 22 cm in cross section from spruce logs of suitable diameter by means of the low-work hewing method. • The time required for hewing spruce logs can be reduced by up to one-third by soaking the logs in water for several months after felling. • The costs and time required for producing hand-hewn versus machined structural elements are comparable, but there is an incomparable difference in ecological footprint and the effects on preservation of the carpentry craft. The hand-hewing of timber has been a fundamental skill for carpenters throughout history. Inevitably though, the majority of wood used in construction at the present time is processed with the use of machines. Repairing heritage objects with machined wood however, as opposed to working replacement timber using similar craft methods and tools as those used in the original, is often in conflict with the principles set forth in the Venice Charter for the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites. Ultimately, relying on mechanization is a missed opportunity to contribute to the preservation of valued intangible cultural heritage. Whereas the sustainability of traditional woodworking techniques and technologies can be promoted by applying them in the conservation of historical wooden buildings, the labor-intensive and time-consuming nature of manual woodworking makes feasibility questionable. In order to provide valuable insight for planners and monument care workers, the paper presents a study on the time demands associated with processing hand-hewn beams intended for use in the structural repair of wooden heritage objects. A series of experiments was conducted wherein a total of 94 beams 18×22 cm in profile and 2.5 m in length were hewn from spruce logs of various diameters. The relationship between initial log diameter and required processing time is presented as a linear function. The relative proportions of the individual steps to the hewing process as a whole were also documented and showed a clear dependency on the total amount of material removal required. The overall processing time was significantly reduced in the case of timber that was soaked for several months before being hewn into beams, and the low-work hewing technique was shown to be more efficient in comparison to high work on trestles. This paper has been published in memory of Petr Růžička, the great pioneer of forgotten carpentry techniques whose work opened a window to our past for future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy sources (RESs) offer key transformative potential from a societal point of view due to their modularity and ability to generate energy at the local level, allowing for the development of grassroots democratic and participatory initiatives. The paper aims to share insights into the processes of creating RES cooperatives in Poland. One of the first cooperatives to be established in the Upper Silesian region in Poland was the energy cooperative (EC) "Our Energy". This study presents an in-depth empirical analysis of a community-based renewable energy cooperative. The study employed a case study methodology, including a SWOT analysis framework, to describe the research subject and identify its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Key findings indicate that members benefit from stable energy prices and full recovery of the energy produced, and the cooperative is at the forefront of energy-sharing practices that minimize costs through direct transactions with the local municipality. The strategic goals of the EC focus on expanding membership, increasing the number of photovoltaic installations, implementing energy balancing, combating energy poverty, and reducing emissions. Challenges such as financial constraints and a lack of real-time monitoring of energy distribution are acknowledged, and carbon footprint reduction innovations and stakeholder engagement are highlighted as forward-looking approaches. The study highlights the role of cooperatives as a model for community-led sustainable energy initiatives. However, the study acknowledges the limitations of its small sample size, suggesting the need for broader research to understand the impact of collaborative energy on decarbonization. Future research directions are proposed, focusing on the long-term sustainability and socioeconomic impacts of energy cooperatives. This study contributes to the scholarly discourse on renewable energy cooperatives by offering insight into their potential to bridge the gap between energy producers and consumers and support sustainable community development. The main novelty of this paper lies in its detailed examination of a specific renewable energy cooperative, incorporating SWOT analysis, stakeholder perspectives, quantitative assessments, and a forward-thinking approach. This multifaceted analysis contributes to the existing literature on renewable energy initiatives, providing a valuable reference for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Universities and their actions affect the environment directly and significantly. Therefore, the carbon footprint (CF) needs to be implemented in these institutions for mitigating climate change and its potential risks. Based on this understanding, the university consortium quality and environment (QualEnv) stands out by its main objective – to increase the university's contribution to sustainable development (SD) through the deployment of systematic environmental practices and quality processes. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to present the CF of the Latin American universities of the QualEnv consortium. Design/methodology/approach: The study was based on the actions for adopting CF and its implementation at the universities that take part in the QualEnv consortium. The measurement process and report presentation were done properly by the universities and published as institutional documents. Therefore, data were collected and analyzed through a document search, systematic literature review and participant observation. Findings: The results show knowledge deepening and systematization on CF in higher education. In addition, it presents the effort of a group of universities that, through a research network, seek to adopt practices towards a carbon-neutral university, which requires an incremental and systematic change to break out of the traditional system. Originality/value: This paper discusses the practical implications for universities and the need to implement initiatives for measuring and reducing their CF since it shows how the institutions belonging to QualEnv consortium have created their own strategies to mitigate climate change and contribute to SD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aviation industry has seen consistent growth over the past few decades. To maintain its sustainability and competitiveness, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding of the environmental impacts across the entire life cycle of the industry, including materials, processes and resources; manufacturing and production; lifetime services; reuse; end-of-life; and recycling. One important component of aircraft engines, integral rotors known as Blisks, are made of high-value metallic alloys that require complex and resource-intensive manufacturing processes. The purpose of this paper is to assess the ecological and economical impacts generated through Blisk production and thereby identify significant 'hot-spots'. Design/methodology/approach: This paper focuses on the methodology and approach for conducting a full-scale Blisk life cycle assessment (LCA) based on ISO 14040/44. Unlike previous papers in the European Aerospace Science Network series, which focused on the first two stages of LCA, this publication delves into the "life cycle impact assessment" and "interpretation" stages, providing an overview of the life cycle inventory modeling, impact category selection and presenting preliminary LCA results for the Blisk manufacturing process chain. Findings: The result shows that the milled titanium Blisk has a lower CO2 footprint than the milled nickel Blisk, which is less than half of the global warming potential (GWP) of the milled nickel Blisk. A main contributor to GWP arises from raw material production. However, no recycling scenarios were included in the analysis, which will be the topic of further investigations. Originality/value: The originality of this work lies in the detailed ecological assessment of the manufacturing for complex engine components and the derivation of hot spots as well as potential improvements in terms of eco-footprint reduction throughout the products cradle-to-gate cycle. The LCA results serve as a basis for future approaches of process chain optimisation, use of "greener" materials and individual process improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our societies struggle to provide a good life for all without overconsuming environmental resources. Consequently, scholarly search for approaches to meet environmental and social goals of sustainability have become popular. In transport research, accessibility is a key tool to characterise linkages between people, transport, and land use. In the current paper, we propose a conceptual framework for measuring just accessibility within planetary boundaries. We reviewed transport studies and discovered a substantial literature body on accessibility and social disadvantage, much vaster compared to the literature around environmental and ecological impacts of accessibility. We also show a gap in approaches that have integrated these two perspectives. Building on the review, we suggest a conceptual framework for incorporating environmental and social sustainability goals in accessibility research. We conclude the paper by pointing to key challenges and research avenues related to the framework, including (i) dealing with uncertainty and complexity in socio-ecological thresholds, (ii) integrating environmental limits into the conceptualisations of transport equity, (iii) measuring accessibility through other costs than travel time, and (iv) integrating both quantitative and qualitative data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Currently there are several methodologies available for estimating the carbon footprint of products. In this study a comparison has been made between the outcomes and the implications of three different methodologies applied to office paper: (1) the ISO 14040/14044 standards limited to the analysis of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the corresponding impact category global warming; (2) the PAS 2050; and (3) the Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI) framework. The carbon footprint of office paper from cradle-to-costumer is 4.64, 4.74 and 4.29gCO2eq per A4 sheet according to, respectively, the ISO 14040/14044 standards, the PAS 2050 and the CEPI framework. The ISO 14040/14044 standard methodology allows the quantification of 98% of the total GHG emissions with the smallest effort in data collection. The major hot spots are the stages of eucalypt pulp and office paper production and chemical and fuel production for all methodologies. General methodologies such as those analysed in this study are not enough for the comparison of products. More specific rules, such as Product Category Rules, that limit the degree of freedom in the choice of the functional unit, system boundary, allocation rules, data quality, between others, should be developed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The pulp and paper industry, which is closely related to national economic and social development, is an important industry but also contributes high carbon emissions. Therefore, with the advent of the low-carbon economic era, ways to reduce the carbon emissions and to bring about a low-carbon industrial transition of the pulp and paper industry is becoming one of the important academic projects. A system for carbon footprint assessment, namely the Publicly Available Specification (PAS) 2050 methodology, is introduced in this paper. Based on the analysis and assessment of the carbon footprint (CO2 equivalent emissions) for the Coated Ivory Board production lines, it was used to provide a scientific basis and approach for reduction of carbon emissions and formulate the corresponding measures for carbon emissions reduction of China's pulp and paper industry. The business to business carbon footprint, for which steps of the life cycle are included in Coated Ivory Board production, was analyzed and calculated. The results showed that there were 888 kg of CO2 equivalent emissions per metric ton of Coated Ivory Board, in which the largest part, accounting for 57.5%, was associated with purchased electricity, followed by fuel oil at 40.2%, and others accounted for 2.3% of the CO2 equivalent emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the introduction of the water footprint concept in 2002, in the context of humankind's ever-increasing awareness of the valuable global freshwater resources, it has received more and more attention. The application of this relatively new concept has been expected to provide ecological and environmental benefits. For the water-intensive papermaking industry, it seems that water footprint needs to be addressed. The water footprint of cellulosic paper can be divided into three components, including its green water footprint, blue water footprint, and grey water footprint, which may be accounted for by considering the individual contributions of wood or non-wood materials, pulp production processes, effluent discharge to the receiving water bodies, process chemicals and additives, energy consumption, etc. In the literature, the accounting of water footprint during the whole production chain of cellulosic paper is already available, and relevant research findings can provide useful insights into the application of the concept; however, further development of the accounting methodologies is much needed, so that the quantitative and qualitative evaluation of water footprint can be internationally recognized, certified, and standardized. Although there are ongoing or upcoming debates and challenges associated with the concept, its application to papermaking industry may be expected to provide various encouraging possibilities and impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]