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This paper presents a physical input-output table (PIOT) that shows the complete wood and paper flow through the economic system of Germany. The PIOT illustrates the wood and paper flow between different sectors and to different types of final use. It can be used both as a monitoring instrument and for scenario analysis. The hypothetical extraction method is applied in order to assess inter-industry linkages and single out key industries. Despite the wide variety of wood-based products and the versatile use of wood, it turns out that there is a surprisingly linear organization of the production system when it comes to the flow of wood and paper through Germany (“throughput economy”). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper and board recycling is now a central issue in papermaking. Understanding of material flows, as a part of the total production chain, as well as, fibrous and non-fibrous component flows needs further clarification. These flows are studied at a European level, with special focus on Germany and Sweden. Non-fibrous components are discussed in terms of a material which hampers the processing of paper and board. Resource-efficiency improvements, in conjunction with economic benefits, are sought and recycling has been able to fulfil both of these. The main drivers to maximize the use of recovered paper in paper and board manufacturing, have been improved over the last decades. These drivers are cost, environmental image and good technical properties to be used as raw material. The increased recycling rate has reduced the quality of the collected paper, produced recycled paper, and replaced virgin pulp. Also, recycling as a process, like deinking, produces large amounts of waste material that has challenges to find proper utilization. These problem areas are addressed in this paper, too. One focus area in the analysis of statistical information is an estimation of the share of non-fibrous components and fibre volumes of paper in Europe (EU) for the year 2010. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine the price ambivalence of low quality waste paper (grades 1.02 and 1.04) on the German market. Since 1990 the price of these grades is at times positive and at times negative. The underlying reason is the combination of three institutional and technical characteristics of the market: (i) As a result of waste management legislation the supply of waste paper is mostly independent of its price and its demand. Supply is bounded from below by collection and utilization quotas fixed by the Regulation on Packaging Waste enacted in 1991. (ii) The only alternative to costly disposal of waste paper by dumping or incineration is its use as a secondary resource in the production of new paper, as only the paper industry is capable of using waste paper in a productive manner in significant amount. (iii) Yet, its use as a substitute for primary inputs is technically limited. In this article, we describe the technical and institutional conditions leading to price ambivalence and discuss the consequences for supply, demand and trade of waste paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Wood has always been an indispensable material in human society throughout history. Its efficient utilization is even more crucial today in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, its production, trade, use, and recycling are seldom systematically assessed, with Germany being an exception due to the extensive work conducted by the University of Hamburg and the Thünen Institute over the years. To provide a more precise account of wood use, this study employs oven-dry metric tonne as the reference unit to construct a static wood flow based on the material flow analysis and wood resource balance in Germany in 2020. The Sankey diagrams comprehensively visualize the flow and stock of wood in various sectors, including forests, sawmills, pulp mills, buildings, energy, and waste. Results showed that forest felling volume exceeded growth due to significant wood demand and export, while forest carbon sinks increased because more hardwood was retained in German forests. The building and construction sector was the largest consumer of primary wood products, accounting for 52.1 % of the total, followed by furniture (29.5 %) and packaging (14.0 %). All waste paper was used to produce recycled fiber pulp, whereas only 14 % of waste wood was employed in particle board production. The woody biomass energy, amounting to 142.4 TWh, provided approximately 4.4 % of Germany's primary energy consumption, with around half of it used in private households. In addition to apparent data, this study also uses resource allocation, carbon storage, and cascade potential as examples to demonstrate that wood flow is applicable for further in-depth analysis, supporting wood efficient utilization. It can even be applied to any country and period with sufficient data and conversion factors, but here, they also prevented this study from comprehensively describing past and future wood flows. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comment is meant to reiterate two warnings: One applies to the uncritical use of ready-made (openly available) program packages, and one to the estimation of trends in serially correlated time series. Both warnings apply to the recent publication of Lischeid et al. about lake-level trends in Germany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper compares the recycling attitudes of consumers in Germany and Japan, based on our nationwide questionnaires. We analyzed consumption behavior as well as recycling behavior in narrow sense, becauseit is important to study the former to see how the supply of recycled materials is balanced with the demand, particularly in Japan which exports little recycled materials. Toilet paper was adopted as a specific good for study, because consumers have options of buying virgin products and recycled products. It was found that German households pay for waste collection specifically and have higher recycling rates than Japanese households. On the other hand, similar figures in German and Japanese consumers were observed with regard to consumption of recycled products. Their purchasing criteria and preference on virginand recycled products of toilet paper were examined by self-report and blind test with 2x 2 experimental design for toilet paper (German versus Japanese, virgin versus recycled). Blind test showed that people prefer domestic and virgin products in both countries. Half of respondents rating virgin products guessed that the products contained recycled material. For Japanese, the material of the sample toilet paper, made from virgin pulp, seems to be a more determining factor thanthe nationality of products, i.e. made in Japan. On the other hand, for Germans, the domestic nature seems to be a more dominant factor than the material, i.e. made from virgin material. Canonical discriminant analysis in conjunction with logistic regression based on self-reporting data detected the characters `multiplied', `appearance' and `brand' as major factors making the difference in preference between the two countries. The possible reasons causing the similarity and dissimilarity between the two countries are discussed with reference to the background history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating demand for renewable energy solutions and the imperative for efficient energy storage mechanisms have catalyzed the evolution of Power-to-X (PtX) technologies. Germany has the most PtX projects, accounting for 44% of all projects that have been reported. PtX encompasses a spectrum of processes engineered to convert surplus renewable energy into versatile energy carriers or chemical commodities, such as hydrogen, methane, or synthetic fuels. The Paramount to this domain is to synergistically harness renewable energy sources and hydrogen carriers to curtail waste and bolster sustainability. Central to achieving this synergy is the effective control of PtX processes, ensuring optimal performance, cost efficiency, and seamless integration within existing energy frameworks. This paper delves into the control processes and environmental prerequisites within the PtX landscape, elucidating key challenges, and strategies within this dynamic realm. While providing an initial overview of fundamental PtX process chains, this paper accentuates the critical role of geographical considerations. Subsequently, it conducts a thorough analysis of equipment modeling challenges, addressing performance metrics, operational requisites, and capital investments, particularly focusing on methanol and hydrogen production and storage. Through holistic examination, this paper endeavors to delineate the evolving landscape of PtX control processes and conditions, advancing our understanding of this expanding field. [Display omitted] • Comprehensive overview of PtX control process, challenges, strategies, and advancements. • Overview of PtX process chains and geographical conditions. • Analysis of equipment modeling challenges for methanol and hydrogen. • Addressing crucial storage challenges in PtX system. • Exploration of diverse influences on PtX control processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Field experiment in mandatory recycling scheme tests effectiveness of door stepping. • Majority of households in mandatory recycling schemes separates waste correctly. • Minority of households is responsible for most miss sorting. • Door stepping does not influence behavior of households in mandatory schemes. • Door stepping can improve recycling behavior in voluntary recycling schemes. Household organic waste has great potential for closing nutrient cycles in agriculture. This requires proper waste separation by households. Personal communication at the doorstep potentially improves household waste separation behaviour but it is expensive and findings from existing research are mixed. Based on results of previous studies and from a quasi-experiment with non-equivalent groups design in two German municipalities, this paper argues that efficiency of personal communication depends on its context. It can positively influence behaviour when recycling is voluntary and participation rates are low. However, it has no significant effects if recycling is mandatory. One explanation could be different perceptions of recycling in mandatory and voluntary schemes. In voluntary schemes door stepping can activate the intrinsic motivation of households. In mandatory schemes, all households need to participate irrespective of intrinsic motivation. This research shows that this creates a situation in which a small share of households is responsible for almost all contamination. This can be overcome by considering extrinsic factors that affect recycling behaviour. The paper recommends further research to understand which combination of incentives, sanctions and information is efficient in affecting behaviour change in mandatory recycling schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Drivers on slip roads want vehicles on the target lane to decelerate. • Drivers in target lanes rate the behaviour of vehicles on slip roads ambiguously. • AVs are rated identically or even more positively than MVs with identical behaviour. • No different safety distance is kept from automated vehicles. • Results show that cross-border traffic between Germany and UK with AVs is feasible. • Intercultural aspects must still be considered in the development of AVs. To ensure safe and uninterrupted traffic flow, (semi-)automated vehicles must be capable of providing comprehensible and agreeable implicit communication cues to human drivers. This driving simulator study investigated the assessment of implicit communication at a motorway slip road through longitudinal driving dynamics (acceleration, deceleration, and maintaining speed). The second aim of the study was to determine whether expectations of automated vehicles are different from those of human drivers. And thirdly, we investigated whether these findings are country-specific or can be (partially) generalised to other countries. The perception of three means of communication in connection with the presence of a labelling as an automated vehicle (eHMI) was examined in two samples in Germany and England. 27 participants drove from a slip road onto the motorway and interacted with another vehicle. After a stretch on the motorway, they passed a second slip road on which there was a vehicle merging onto the participants lane. This was repeated six times to test all variables. After each situation, the perceived cooperativity and criticality was recorded, as well as the time headway (THW) to the other vehicle. This paper presents the findings from the UK sample and compares them with the German results, which were previously published. Results show, that when the cooperating vehicles are on the slip road, participants from both countries prefer this vehicle to decelerate. However, when participants themselves are on the slip road, expectations for vehicles on the target lane are ambiguous in the UK sample. Except for one aspect (perceived cooperativity of decelerating vehicles on the slip road), the perception of automated vehicles is similar to those of manual drivers. Also, UK participants do not maintain a different safety distance from these vehicles, while this is the case in the German sample. This paper contributes valuable insights into the cross-cultural evaluation of driving dynamics, shedding light on implications for the development and acceptance of automated vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an ongoing process that greenhouse gas emissions of transport will be incorporated in the European Emissions Trading System. The cap-and-trade approach will result in substantial price increases for fossil fuels which will affect affordability of the transport systems. Within this paper the regressive effect on car-owning households is described in different area categories of the urban and rural region in Germany. Equal-per-household redistribution of the carbon revenue could reverse the regressive effect into a progressive effect. However, there is substantial variation within the different economic status groups leaving notable shares of households with a very low economic status without a positive net transfer. This share will be lowest in the metropolises of the urban region and highest in small-sized cities/village areas of the urban and rural region. Particularly in the latter area categories, these households may need temporary mobility allowances due to limited abatement options. Despite the environmental bonus, electric car-owning households still belong to groups of higher economic status, and public transport supply is limited, particularly in the small-sized cities/village areas of the urban and rural region. • The financial burden of transport carbon pricing varies by the economic status of households. • Within all economic status groups, the financial burden varies also by area categories. • Equal-per-household-payments could turn the regressive effect of carbon pricing progressive. • Yet some households with a very low economic status may still need temporary mobility allowances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the investigation of diseases and other harmful environmental influences (e.g., chemicals) epidemiological studies rely on high quality human samples, among others. Collecting samples and data in the field can pose an enormous challenge to the study team with regard to health protection and occupational safety, especially in the context of a pandemic where there was great uncertainty about the biological risks associated with SARS-CoV-2. The German Environmental Specimen Bank (German ESB) is a key element of environmental and human biomonitoring in Germany with the aim to document and assess trends of human and environmental exposure to chemicals over time and to provide scientific data for policy decision makers. Starting with a pilot study in 1978 human samples are now collected at four sampling locations annually, while sampling is carried out with a highly standardized mobile laboratory since 2013. Due to the corona pandemic 3 of 4 ESB sampling campaigns had to be cancelled in 2020. However, a continuous sampling is crucial to generate current policy relevant data on chemical exposure. Hence, a protection and hygiene concept has been developed including COVID-19 testing with the goal to protect the health of participants and employees during sampling and to meet legal requirements, while sustaining the standardized procedures of sampling and sample preparation. The concept is based on a flexible approach to allow adjustments to changing government regulations and recommendations in the course of the pandemic. By implementing this concept, all samplings were successfully carried out in 2021 & 2022, with the pandemic still ongoing. This paper provides an example of good practice and valuable insights in how to collect human samples during a pandemic. • Conducting epidemiological sampling and data collection for the German Environmental Specimen Bank during a pandemic. • Risk Assessment & development of an infection protection & hygiene concept to conduct safe sampling in a mobile laboratory. • Rapid sample handling, Point-of-Care analytics, and on-site cryopreservation. • Lessons learned during Covid 19 epidemic for future pandemic situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With its ability to store and transport energy without releasing greenhouse gases, hydrogen is considered an important driver for the decarbonisation of energy systems. As future hydrogen import prices from global markets are subject to large uncertainties, it is unclear what impact different hydrogen and derivative import prices will have on the future German energy system. To answer that research question, this paper explores the impact of three different import price scenarios for hydrogen and its derivatives on the German energy system in a climate-neutral setting for Europe in 2045 using three different energy system models. The analysis shows that the quantities of electricity generated as well as the installed capacities for electricity generation and electrolysis increase as the hydrogen import price rises. However, the resulting differences between the import price scenarios vary across the models. The results further indicate that domestic German (and European) hydrogen production is often cost-efficient. • Comparison of the energy system models REMod, SCOPE SD and Enertile. • Detailed derivation of three import price scenarios for hydrogen and its derivatives. • Transformation pathways in Germany towards a climate-neutral energy system in 2045. • Increasing capacities for electricity generation and electrolysis in all models as the hydrogen import price rises. • Comparison of effects on storage technologies and electricity imports as well as on the industry and transport sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The generation of Points of Interest including capacities for travel demand models is usually costly and laborious. Recently, several methods have been developed to automate this process based on Volunteered Geographic Information data as well as to validate the corresponding results. The methodology presented in this paper takes on the task of setting up such a workflow on a large scale, including capacities and all common activity types, by making use of OpenStreetMap data. As a result, a Points of Interest dataset could be created for the whole of Germany, which maps around 24 million destinations including capacities divided into seven activity types. An exemplary validation based on the generated workplace and shopping locations as well as capacities indicates a varying quality of results depending on the respective regional type. The discussion additionally concludes that assignment of several activities to one location presents challenges that should be addressed in future approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrogen (H2) momentum affects the aviation sector. However, a macroeconomic consideration is currently missing. To address this research gap, the paper derives a methodology for evaluating macroeconomic effects of H2 in aviation and applies this approach to Germany. Three goals are addressed: (1) Construction of a German macroeconomic database. (2) Translation of H2 supply chains to the system of national accounts. (3) Implementation of H2-powered aviation into the macroeconomic data framework. The article presents an economy-wide database for analyzing H2-powered aviation. Subsequently, the paper highlights three H2 supply pathways, provides an exemplary techno-economic cost break-down for ten H2 components and translates them into the data framework. Eight relevant macroeconomic sectors for H2-powered aviation are identified and quantified. Overall, the paper contributes on a suitable foundation to apply the macroeconomic dataset and to conduct macroeconomic analyses on H2-powered aviation. Finally, the article highlights further research potential on job effects related to future H2 demand. • The hydrogen momentum affects the aviation sector, but a macroeconomic perspective is currently lacking. • This article derives a methodology for evaluating the macroeconomic effects of hydrogen use in aviation and applies this approach to an economy-wide dataset for Germany. • The study investigates three hydrogen supply pathways, provides an exemplary cost break-down for ten hydrogen components and translates them into a national data framework. • Eight macroeconomic sectors relevant for hydrogen-powered aviation are identified and quantified by assigning the respective techno-economic cost components. • The article highlights meaningful research potential on macroeconomic analyses of hydrogen-powered aviation and employment effects related to future hydrogen demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the transformation of information sharing and multi-tier supply chain management (MSCM) from the perspective of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the context of Industry 4.0. SMEs are typically sharing less information digitally, are less active in conducting MSCM, but must be integrated in digital supplier networks to achieve supply chain transparency or traceability. For this purpose, this paper empirically analyzes SMEs from the manufacturing industry in Austria and Germany are investigated regarding information sharing and MSCM. The responses are analyzed to test three hypotheses, using 81 replies from manufacturing SMEs in Austria and Germany. The three hypotheses investigate the upstream and downstream MSCM practices of SMEs as well as which kind of information is shared with and by SMEs. The results help to understand and reveal potential barriers for information sharing besides technical possibilities to SMEs in order to be actively involved in MSCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen, seen as a promising secondary renewable energy carrier, can becompressed or liquefied as well as chemically bound to enable a more economic storage and transportation. All conditioned hydrogen options obtain specific advantages and disadvantages. Thus, this paper assess the energy efficiency and the cost of a green hydrogen supply from well to tank exemplified for fuel cell heavy-duty vehicles in Germany related to the years 2030 and 2050. Therefore, compressed gaseous hydrogen, liquid hydrogen, liquid organic hydrogen carriers, methanol and ammonia are considered and different hydrogen production regions in North and Central Germany, as well as an import from Tunisia and Argentina (Patagonia) are assumed. The assessment shows that a hydrogen supply chain in its state of aggregation as finally demanded is the lowest cost option leading to 700 bar compressed gaseous hydrogen filling costs of 5 € 2020 /kg H2 in 2030 and 4 € 2020 /kg H2 in 2050 and liquid hydrogen filling costs around 7 € 2020 /kg H2 in 2030 and 6 € 2020 /kg H2 in 2050. • Well to tank analysis for a hydrogen supply of filling stations. • Gaseous hydrogen supply chains are the lowest cost options for gaseous filling. • Liquid hydrogen supply chains show the lowest supply costs for liquid filling. • LOHC obtain high supply costs, especially for long transportation distances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Including disabled workers in value-creating work processes is a fundamental and guaranteed human right and is, therefore, an essential goal of society. In Germany, sheltered workshops create the conditions for this inclusion since they are essential to companies' value chains. A central challenge is the inclusion of disabled workers in the value-creation processes, such as in manufacturing or assembly areas. The skills of disabled workers vary since they have individual impairments. Therefore, this paper presents a digital human model, a Human Digital Twin (HDT), for disabled workers. The model maps their skills and supports the production planning and assembly processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Organically bred vegetable varieties analyzed as a Technological Innovation System. • Empirical study on barriers for diffusion in conventional food retail. • Analysis of resource formation processes and overarching vicious cycles. • Sustainable agri-food innovations do not leave niche status due to deep value clashes. • Market formation perspective added to research on organic seeds and Seed Commons. While organic food increased its market share in conventional food retail, virtually all organic vegetables are still conventionally bred. For decades, organically bred vegetable varieties remained a market niche, despite their socio-ecological benefits. This paper conceptualizes actors and activities around organic breeding as a Technological Innovation System (TIS) and analyzes what prevents these varieties from widely diffusing into conventional supermarkets. Investigated systemic barriers relate to knowledge, market formation, investments, and legitimacy. The study is based on interviews with food retailers and (commons-based) breeding initiatives across Germany. Theoretically, the paper adds an innovation system perspective on the diffusion of organically bred varieties, a blind spot in the emerging seed commons debate. Furthermore, it contributes to sustainability transitions literature by introducing a novel empirical topic and reframing the TIS framework to analyze agri-food innovations. Identifying barriers and vicious cycles might support practitioners and policymakers seeking to diffuse this agri-food niche. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is increasingly recognised that the perceptions and lived experiences of climate change are grounded in places. This paper brings together work on place and climate imaginaries to develop a situated and emplaced understanding of climate change futures. Empirically, the paper examines local climate imaginaries on the North Frisian Wadden Sea coast of Germany. The low-lying islands are vulnerable to anthropogenic sea-level rise and face an uncertain future. Based on 21 semi-structured interviews conducted with coastal dwellers, the study examines all interviews from a grounded theory perspective. A refined in-depth analysis of the language helps to reveal climate imaginaries and systematise the ways through which local climate futures are articulated, structured and constructed. The aim of the paper is threefold: to synthesise research undertaken on place and climate imaginaries, to empirically analyse emplaced climate imaginaries and to explore – though tentatively – their role in developing regionally grounded climate change adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The defossilization of industry has far-reaching implications regarding the future demand for hydrogen and other forms of energy. This paper presents and applies a fundamental bottom-up model that relies on techno-economic data of industrial production processes. Its aim is to identify, across a range of scenarios, the most cost-effective low-carbon options considering a variety of production systems. Subsequently, it derives the hydrogen and electricity demand that would result from the implementation of these least-cost low-carbon options in process industries in Germany. Aligning with the German government's target year for achieving climate neutrality, this study's reference year is 2045. The primary contribution lies in analyzing which hydrogen-based and direct electrification solutions would be cost-effective for a range of energy price levels under climate-neutral industrial production and what the resulting hydrogen and electricity demand would be. To this end, the methodology of this paper comprises the following steps: selection of the relevant industries (I), definition of conventional reference production systems and their low-carbon options (II), investigation and processing of the techno-economic data of the standardized production systems (III), establishment of a scenario framework (IV), determination of the least-cost low-carbon solution of a conventional reference production system under the scenario assumptions made (V), and estimation of the resulting hydrogen and electricity demand (VI). According to the results, the expected industrial hydrogen consumption in 2045 ranges from 265 TWh for higher hydrogen prices in or above the range of onshore wind-based green hydrogen supply costs, to up to 473 TWh for very low hydrogen prices corresponding to typical blue hydrogen production costs. Meanwhile, the direct electricity consumption of the process industries in the results ranges from 147 TWh for these rather low hydrogen prices to 338 TWh for the higher hydrogen prices in the region of or above the hydrogen supply costs from the electrolysis of energy from an onshore wind farm. Most of the break-even hydrogen prices that are relevant to the choice of low-carbon options are in the range of the benchmark purchase costs for blue hydrogen and green hydrogen produced from offshore wind power, which span between €40 per MWh and €97 per MWh. [Display omitted] • Derivation of the future hydrogen and power demand of the process industry in Germany. • Bottom-up, process-level model to find the least-cost low-carbon production method. • Reference year is 2045, and the achievement of climate-neutral production is assumed. • Model determines the hydrogen and power demand under varying hydrogen prices. • Expected hydrogen use between 265 TWh and 473 TWh, depending on scenario assumptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing integration of AI in agriculture necessitates access to diverse data sets for training artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Manufacturers often face challenges due to a perceived shortage of valid data sets, highlighting the need for centralized platforms offering high-quality data. While global AI regulations are yet to be established, existing laws govern data collection, creation, labeling, and processing for AI training in various legal systems. The absence of explicit AI laws prompts a call for platforms supplying data to adhere to relevant regulations, especially in areas where AI controls devices interacting with humans, such as collision warning systems in yard tractors and robots. Compliance is crucial, given the complexity of rules governing data sets featuring people, animals, and buildings. The paper focuses on how to check the compliant data sets in Germany's legal context, focusing on situations in farm yards. People are often visible on such data sets; thus, the data set must preserve the right to informational self-determination and one's image, which is prevalent in many legal systems. Images portraying people typically qualify as personal data, requiring careful anonymization to address privacy concerns. The paper uses artificial neural networks (ANN) to remove images that contradict people's rights on one's image; thus, data sets that comply with data protection laws can be created. It also addresses the lesser-explored issue of the right to one's image in German law. Though AI training may not be impeded, dissemination via digital platforms must adhere to legal boundaries, even if metadata is absent. The paper suggests an AI solution to identify images within legal limits, detect violations, and modify them to create a legally compliant data set respecting the right to one's image. • Discussing legal conform data sets for the agricultural application domain. • Providing a data set of 2694 images covering the categories: – class (I) not legally compliant and – class (II) legally compliant on the right to one's image; cf. Fig. 1. • Identifying the gap in ANN data sets and models for law compliance checks. • Train and benchmark ANN models for checking law compliance – on the right to one's image; – cf. Tab. 1, Tab. 2, and Fig. 3. • Promoting the importance of AI-based law compliance checks for – detecting violations against the law and – developing compliant AI systems in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Childcare policy responses towards Covid-19 differed in European welfare states. • Policy responses cause informalization of childcare to different degrees. • Informalization of childcare is mainly connected with social risks for women. • Cultural and institutional differences help to understand varying policy responses. The closure of extra-familial childcare facilities by European governments in 2020 was an important part of interventions against the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. One consequence was that childcare was provided by parents at home, mainly by women. As a result, women mainly experienced financial and employment risks related to this "informalization" of childcare. The childcare policies of European welfare states differ in the extent to which they include measures to reduce the social risks related to informalization. Against this backdrop, this paper asks: How should one understand cross-national differences in childcare policies during the pandemic? We are also particularly interested in the effects of childcare policies on the social risks connected with the informalization of childcare and what these mean for the gendered division of paid work and care. Differences in childcare policies during the pandemic are commonly explained in terms of the path dependence of such policies. Using the theoretical approach of "care arrangement," this article introduces a broader theoretical framework that considers the role of cultural and institutional factors for understanding the cross-national differences in childcare policies during the pandemic. We introduce the findings of a comparative empirical study of childcare policies in three European welfare states—Denmark, Germany and England—that represent different types of care arrangements. This paper uses policy and media documents, quantitative data on childcare and women's employment, cultural ideas and secondary analysis of empirical studies. We find that governments did not per se respond to the pandemic based on institutional path dependence regarding childcare policies, while the integration of culture into the theoretical framework allows for a more comprehensive understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When collecting, storing and providing research information, it should be taken into account whether and how the research information will be published. It is important under what framework conditions the data will be used further, what rights the researchers involved have to the research information, whether the research group or the project will leave and finally also whether and when the research information will be deleted again. With this in mind, our paper will consider two important aspects: From a data protection point of view, however, the processing of large amounts of data is one of the greatest conceivable challenges. The legal aspects depend on the legislation of the country where the CRIS system operates, the level at which CRIS operates and the type of data collected. Our paper will map legal aspects of processing and protection of research information in Slovakia and Germany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of networks has been growing attention in recent decades in explaining political behaviour. Political nexus aspects also get on the agenda in studying various resources of status attainment. Despite the general realization of these relevant network implications, some conceptual and measurement issues are still debatable. In this paper, we introduce a new tool for measuring political acquaintanceship networks, the Party Nexus Position Generator (PNPG). We will show how one of the most widely used SNA-instruments, the technique of position generator, could be transformed to apply for the measurement of political networks. We tested the tool in two countries, Germany and Hungary, with surveys administered by different methods: online and face-to-face. The presentation of findings on German and Hungarian political networks may help us understand how the broader settings affect the composition of political networks and their influences on political behavior. Results from two different countries may also contribute to assess the validity of the PNPG tools introduced by our study. • We introduce a new tool for measuring political acquaintanceship networks, the Party Nexus Position Generator (PNPG). • The PNPG tool measures two aspects of ego-network political networks, political nexus diversity, and political homophily. • In this paper, we present some basic and more advanced indices extracted from PNPG. • Studying our indices in a joint framework present a research direction of interest with various comparative perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to provide a holistic analysis of the role of hydrogen for achieving greenhouse gas neutrality in Germany. For that purpose, we apply an integrated energy system model which includes all demand sectors of the German energy system and optimizes the transformation pathway from today's energy system to a future cost-optimal energy system. We show that 412 TWh of hydrogen are needed in the year 2045, mostly in the industry and transport sector. Particularly, the use of about 267 TWh of hydrogen in industry is essential as there are no cost-effective alternatives for the required emission reduction in the chemical industry or in steel production. Furthermore, we illustrate that the German hydrogen supply in the year 2045 requires both an expansion of domestic electrolyzer capacity to 71 GW H2 and hydrogen imports from other European countries and Northern Africa of about 196 TWh. Moreover, flexible operation of electrolyzers is cost-optimal and crucial for balancing the intermittent nature of volatile renewable energy sources. Additionally, a conducted sensitivity analysis shows that full domestic hydrogen supply in Germany is possible but requires an electrolyzer capacity of 111 GW H2. • 412 TWh of hydrogen demand in a greenhouse gas neutral Germany in the year 2045. • Hydrogen usage is crucial for defossilization of chemical and steel industry. • 47% of hydrogen is imported from other European countries and Northern Africa. • 71 GW H2 of electrolyzer capacity in Germany with flexible operation. • 35 TWh of hydrogen storage in salt caverns for security of supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant quarantine pests worldwide cause considerable economic damage due to direct plant losses, eradication costs, and contamination measures. Although these losses can threaten the survival of a farm, no country to date has a universal compensation solution that encompasses all agricultural sectors. This paper aims to assess various compensation options by, firstly, calculating potential monetary losses caused by selected quarantine pests, which have not been studied in this context before. Secondly, we calculate farmers' willingness to pay (WTP) for different components of compensation options in plant production using a discrete choice experiment (DCE). We find that monetary losses caused by quarantine pests vary significantly across products and sectors and are highest for intensive vegetable production. The DCE reveals a strong preference for the state compensation and heterogeneity of preferences among farmers depending on their experience with risk management options and perception of pest occurrence. The WTP analysis indicates that requiring preventive plant protection measures as a prerequisite for receiving compensation significantly deters farmers from participating in such a system, as its WTP exhibits the most negative impact compared to all other factors. Due to sectoral differences and path-dependent nature of compensation programs, a universal solution is rather not feasible. Sector-specific solutions must be considered, which does not rule out similar compensation approaches among sectors. Our findings are useful for designing compensation programs for quarantine plant pest cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the decarbonization of the energy system, natural gas will only play a minor role as an energy source after 2045. To decarbonize the gas supply in the future, there are two options for green gases: hydrogen or biomethane. The injection of green gases into the existing gas infrastructure leads to changes in the gas composition, requiring a consideration of the framework conditions for distribution. Adjustments to the grid for transport may be required. Consequently, this paper presents the main characteristics of hydrogen and biomethane and examines the suitability of the gas infrastructure for their transportation. A case study for the development of gas infrastructure in Germany is presented. The focus is on the further development of biogas, concentrating on the question of which biogas should optimally be upgraded in the future to enable its be distribution in the long term. [Display omitted] • Dedication of gas infrastructure to hydrogen in competition with the distribution of biomethane. • Examination of the suitability of the infrastructure for the distribution of green gases. • Gas grid development pathways in Germany. • Role of biogas in future gas supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organized sexualized and ritual abuse (ORA), a contentious issue since the 1980s, remains a polarizing topic. Although there is much debate about the existence of this phenomenon, a differentiated perspective is lacking, and no representative study has yet addressed the frequency. This paper aims to investigate the frequency of ORA in Germany using two representative datasets. Data were collected from representative samples of the German population (N = 2522, N = 2515). Participants aged 16 to 96 years (50 and 53 % female) were recruited. They were selected by a random route procedure and asked to fill out a paper-pencil-questionnaire. The four aspects of ORA (severe sexual violence, perpetrator networks, commercial exploitation, ideology) were assessed based on the definition provided by an expert group. Additionally, in the second survey, a direct yes/no question about the experience of ORA as well as details on perpetrators and offense characteristics were surveyed. Frequency of ORA was low. The direct question on ORA was affirmed by 0.5 % (n = 13), while according to the criteria of the definition, only 0.2 % or less of individuals experienced organized sexualized abuse, and <0.1 % experienced ritual abuse. Although ORA is discussed thoroughly, frequencies in the German population are low. This may be due to inconsistent terminology and operationalization of definitions with lack of precision. However, an intersection of conspiracy beliefs and the topic of ritual violence sheds another light on this issue that should receive more attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While e-shopping may trigger more but shorter trips, i.e., within walkable distances, frequent e-shoppers see private car as more reliable. However, research addressing the interplay between e-shopping and transport mode choice is scarce and mostly focused on urban areas. Against this background, the paper complements current literature by answering the following research question: Is e-shopping behaviour associated with walking to in-store retail instead of using a private car, and what are the differences between urban and rural environments? Germany serves as the spatial laboratory, with the data from the 2017 Mobilität in Deutschland (MiD) survey providing comprehensive insights on mobility and its socio-economic elements. Three logistic regression models are carried out to explore the impact of e-shopping frequency on transport mode choice for three different spatial settings: large agglomerations (≥100,000 inhabitants), urban counties, and rural counties. The results show that people who buy online more frequently in urban and rural counties tend to reach in-store destinations by car instead of walking. On the other hand, the frequency of e-shopping and walking mode choice do not present any association on large urban agglomerations. The socio-economic analysis shows that car owners tend to reach in-store retail by car, while those with higher household incomes are more likely to walk. The paper ends with a discussion of how the results can inform sustainable transport systems to find a balance between online and in-store shopping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Household residential location changes have become an important life event to study changes in travel behaviour. However, most related studies suffer from the shortcomings of collecting retrospective pre-move data, i.e. recall errors and ex-post rationalisation of change. What is more, the overwhelming majority of research in the field relies on quantitative data that do not adequately reflect the subjective perspective of the households or individuals under study, and that are prone to causality issues. Based on a solid theoretical discussion of causality between the built environment (on two interconnected scales) and travel behaviour, the paper reports on a mixed-methods (qualitative/quantitative) panel survey among movers and a control group of non-movers in Germany. Substantial effort was required to conduct the survey due to the dependence on collaboration partners who provided access to households planning to move in the near future. Therefore the paper focuses on the sampling and recruitment process, for which various channels were used. Results pertaining to representativeness and the costs and effectiveness of recruitment channels are presented, and implications for data analysis are briefly discussed. Conclusions are drawn with respect to the relevance of the approach for researchers and practitioners. • Discusses experiences with a mixed-methods panel research design. • Aims to establish solid foundation for causal influences of built environment on travel behaviour. • Before-and-after survey combined with qualitative interviews of relocating households. • Discusses representativeness and effectiveness and unit cost of recruitment channels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents insight into how rural young adults in the rural areas of Oost-Groningen, The Netherlands, and Südharz, Germany, deal with their rural identity with regard to different future horizons. This paper applies future horizons instead of intended future plans to emphasize the open and uncertain nature of young adults' aspired future. Based on 15 biographical interviews and a survey to geographically contextualize these interviews, the results show how rural young adults can have parallel future horizons to maintain several options open in which they all aim to preserve a rural identity. This paper illustrates how rural young adults compromise a rural identity with aspirations elsewhere in a staying or rural horizon elsewhere. In addition, the results show how they deal with rural identities by further internalizing and externalizing their rural identities with variations of embracing aspects of a rural identity with regard to different future horizons. The paper concludes that young adults can be considered, however also out of uncertainty about the future, as active participants of their future who apply parallel and temporal horizons and still preserve a rural identity. • Future horizons capture the open nature of young adults' futures. • Young adults apply parallel and temporal horizons to preserve a rural identity. • Rural young adults refocus their rural identity to align it with parallel aspirations. • Regional contexts matter in how rural identities are changed for future horizons. • Young adults can be considered as active participants in shaping their futures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is regarded as a key component of future low-carbon energy systems. Yet, for the implementation of hydrogen technologies on a large scale it is necessary to consider social acceptance. Studies on acceptance of hydrogen technologies have resulted in neutral to positive evaluations. This paper extends previous studies by focusing on large-scale hydrogen infrastructure. Within the project ELEGANCY, quantitative data on the acceptance was gathered among the German population. The results confirm the positive perception of hydrogen on a general level. However, the high level of acceptance is decreasing when it comes to infrastructure implementation in the own neighbourhood. In this paper, the gap between acceptance of hydrogen technology on a general level and the level of its infrastructural implementation is analysed, focusing on new pipeline infrastructure. The results show that sociodemographic factors, especially the variable age, as well as project-related factors, especially trust in stakeholders, have a high explanatory power. • Hydrogen technology is highly accepted in the German population. • Acceptance is decreasing, when it comes to large-scale infrastructure. • Effects of NIMBY are related to project-related, personal and place-based factors. • NIMBYism can be addressed through increasing trust in stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nazi Germany surrendered to the Allies on May 8, 1945. Six months later, the Allies tried the surviving leaders of Nazi Germany at the first Nuremberg trial. Later, the United States conducted 12 additional trials. The first one, The Unites States of America versus Karl Brandt et al., has been dubbed the Doctors' Trial. During the trial, the prosecution relied on the testimony of Dr. Andrew Ivy and Dr. Leo Alexander. At the end of the trial, Judge Sebring enunciated 10 principles needed to conduct human subject research-the Nuremberg Code. Authorship of the Code has been the subject of dispute, with both Ivy and Alexander claiming sole authorship.Methods: In the summer of 2017, I visited Duke University Medical Center's Archives and surveyed the contents of boxes labeled "Alexander's papers." I also explored online databases with information on the Doctors' Trial. Pertinent documents were compared across collections, and against scholarly works on the topic.Results: Box 3 of Alexander's papers at Duke University Medical Center's Archives contains a three-page document with six principles that, nearly word for word, were included in what is known as the Nuremberg Code. Alexander's name and appointment are typed at the end of the document.Conclusions: Although the Nuremberg Code is likely to have been an unplanned collaboration among members of the prosecuting team and the judges, I present evidence suggesting that Alexander drafted the blueprint and was the main contributor to the final version of the Code. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reflects on place attachment in times of digitalisation in rural regions. Our qualitative study explores the extent to which and with which characteristics place attachment 'translates' into the digital format. The paper analyses 193 digital projects presented in the internet. These cases cover several European countries with a particular focus on Germany. The analysis is based on a three-dimensional framework involving attachment concepts, space/place and digitalisation. From a systematic categorisation of the case studies, six result patterns emerge: Some of them confirm place attachment patterns, which are well known from the debate on 'non-digital' place attachment (e.g., the importance of emotions). Other findings show that digitalisation does make a difference, in particular concerning abstract, non-localised spatial references to the rural area. Finally, we deduce some implications from our findings for practical implementation in regional development. • Facets of place attachment to rural regions are examined in digital tools. • Digital formats enable references to generic and abstract spatial contexts. • To attract new residents the focus is on locational information. • In digital tools, place-related emotions are uttered differently across scales. • Web 3.0 applications potentially secure rural services of general interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Refrigerant-lubricant interaction properties were experimentally investigated. • Vapor pressure measurements for binary and ternary mixtures were conducted. • Miscibility and thermal conductivity were assessed for binary and ternary mixtures. • Correlations of refrigerant-lubricant interaction properties were developed. Household appliances need to be both efficient and cost-effective. As a result, electrically driven tumble dryers were converted to heat pump driven ones several years ago in order to comply with energy directives, in this case in Germany. In order to increase the efficiency of heat pumps of different performance classes, the use of zeotropic refrigerant mixtures can be useful, since the temperature glide during the phase change of the refrigerant mixture can be adapted to the temperature gradients of the secondary fluids. In order to take advantage of this unique property, a refrigerant mixture selection was carried out by a screening procedure using REFPROP. Within the investigation presented here, two different zeotropic refrigerant blends, propane (R290)/dimethyl ether (DME or RE170) (30 wt.%/70 wt.%) and R152a/carbon dioxide (R744) (90 wt.%/10 wt.%) are focused on as substitutes with low global warming potential (GWP) for R134a in heat pump tumble dryers. The focus is on the interaction between the refrigerant mixtures and the respective lubricant to ensure usability in the heat pump tumble dryer. A specialised polyolefin-based (POE) lubricant was chosen for each refrigerant blend. Because the numerous combinations of possible refrigerant mixtures can lead to unanticipated challenges with oil mixtures, additional experimental investigations are necessary to ensure the compatibility of the lubricant and refrigerant mixture combination in the temperature ranges associated with the investigated application. Therefore, measurements of the vapor pressure, miscibility gaps and thermal conductivity of the refrigerant-lubricant mixture have been carried out and are the focus of this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We causally analyse the link between immigrants and crime in Germany for 2008–2019. • The effect is positive for the early sub-period and negative or insignificant for the later one. • When analyzing the total period, the estimates average out to zero. • We study the composition of the migrant group. • The type of residence permit plays an important role. The paper empirically analyses the causal relationship between immigrants and crime using data for German administrative districts between 2008 and 2019. Before the refugee crisis (2008–2014), an increase in the current share of immigrants increased the total crime rate. In contrast, the effect was negative (or insignificant) during and after the refugee crisis (2015–2019). When analysing the total period, the estimates average out to zero. Studying more closely the composition of the migrant group, a plausible explanation of the negative (or insignificant) effect of immigrants on crime in the later period is related to a larger share of migrants with a less certain residence status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyses the effort sounds made by caregivers in routine interactions with very young infants. Video recordings were made of 15 mother-infant dyads in Germany during nappy changing. The multimodal analysis of the interactions revealed that effort sounds were used when handling the infant's body, such as dressing them or lifting them up, but also made to link to the sensations of the infant. The sounds achieved their meaning within sequences of actions and contextualised via temporality, phonetic variation and multimodality. With these vocalisations, I propose, parents can give infants' sensations a voice, make them public, and thus achieve a co-ordination of experience. • Effort sounds are social and used to coordinate caregiver-infant routine activities. • Effort sounds foreground aspects of the sensory experiences of both caregiver and infant. • Effort sounds are flexible sound objects that are modulated by temporality, phonetic variation and multimodality. • Effort sounds are used to sound out actions for and on behalf of the infant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to quantify the relation between real GDP, CO2 emissions, renewable and nonrenewable energy consumption, tourism development and labor force for France and Germany as these two countries are pioneer countries pushing Paris agreement within and outside the European Union. The time spans have been used for the period of 1995–2015 according to data availability. In the presence of cross-sectional dependency, several first and second-generation unit root tests confirm the unit root problem while Pedroni and Westernlund confirm the cointegration. Results reveal an inverted U-shape relation between CO2 emissions and real GDP in long run confirming the validity of environmental Kuznets curve for the group of France and Germany. Results declare that renewable energy significantly reduces carbon emissions while nonrenewable energy consumption adds to carbon emissions. Tourism sector was found helpful in carbon reduction that appeals to attract more tourists for the development of sustainable tourism industry by taking energy conservation and emissions reduction in relevant industries in the full consideration. • This paper explores the determinants of carbon emissions for France and Germany. • An inverted U-shape relation was found between carbon emissions and real GDP in long run. • Results reveal renewable energy helps in carbon emissions reduction. • Nonrenewable energy consumption was adding in CO2 emissions. • Tourism sector was found supportive in carbon reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Covid-19 seriously impacts and endangers lives of millions worldwide. To fight the spread of the virus, governments have taken various restricting measures including stay at home orders. Ultimately, the home delivery volume increased significantly, which still bears the risk of human–human infection during the final delivery. From a logisticians perspective, autonomous delivery vehicles (ADVs), which are a contactless delivery solution, have the potential to radically change the way groceries are delivered to customer homes and help to stop the spread of the virus. However, to date, research on user acceptance of ADVs is rare. This paper theoretically extends the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) including gender as a moderator. The study is based on quantitative data collected in Germany through an online questionnaire (n = 501). Data were analysed using structural equation modelling. The results indicate that trust in technology, price sensitivity, innovativeness, performance expectancy, hedonic motivation, social influence, and perceived risk determine behavioural intention. However, some constructs are only significant for women. The findings of this paper have theoretical, managerial and policy contributions and implications within the areas of last-mile delivery and technology acceptance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many industries, low-carbon hydrogen will substitute fossil fuels in the course of the transformation to climate neutrality. This paper contributes to understanding this transformation. This paper provides an overview of energy- and emission-intensive industry sectors with great potential to defossilize their production processes with hydrogen. An assessment of future hydrogen demand for various defossilization strategies in Germany that rely on hydrogen as a feedstock or as an energy carrier to a different extent in the sectors steel, chemicals, cement, lime, glass, as well as pulp and paper is carried out. Results indicate that aggregate industrial hydrogen demand in those industries would range between 197 TWh and 298 TWh if production did not relocate abroad for any industry sector. The range for hydrogen demand is mainly due to differences in the extent of hydrogen utilization as compared to alternative transformation paths for example based on electrification. The attractiveness of production abroad is then assessed based on the prospective comparative cost advantage of relocating parts of the value chain to excellent production sites for low-carbon hydrogen. Case studies are provided for the steel industry, as well as the chemical industry with ethylene production through methanol and the production of urea on the basis of ammonia. The energy cost of the respective value chains in Germany is then compared to the case of value chains partly located in regions with excellent conditions for renewable energies and hydrogen production. The results illustrate, that at least for some processes – as ammonia production – relocation to those favorable regions may occur due to substantial comparative cost advantages. • Industry transformation: fossil fuels to hydrogen as feedstock and energy carrier. • Case study on Germany with hydrogen demand for industry. • Value chains: steel production, ethylene with methanol, and urea with ammonia. • Comparative cost advantage in value chains for locations with different renewable costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Convey the knowledge acquired by IKT during the last 25 years on CIPP lining. • Analyse the key variables for a transparent quality assessment for CIPP projects. • Identify crucial research gaps that need to be investigated in the future. Deterioration of buried water and sewer pipes is a significant concern among utilities around the world. Cured-In-Place-Pipe (CIPP) is one of the techniques commonly adopted to rehabilitate pipes. The main purpose of this paper is to provide a brief, but comprehensive, summary of information needed by researchers, engineers and municipalities to recognize the barriers and difficulties that may arise during CIPP sewer rehabilitation work. Thus, this paper outlines the issues and challenges associated with CIPP rehabilitation of main and lateral sewers by analyzing a series of projects conducted by IKT-Institute for Underground Infrastructure in Germany over the last two decades. Finally, ideas for further research are then proposed to reduce the obstacles and risks linked with this technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Even though the immediate urgency of the COVID-19 pandemic seems to have passed, many countries did not reach the vaccination rates they initially aimed for. The stagnation in vaccine uptake during the height of the pandemic presented policy makers with a challenge that remains unresolved and is paramount for future pandemics and other crises: How to convince the (often not insubstantial) unvaccinated proportion of the population of the benefits of a vaccination? Designing more successful communication strategies, both in retrospect and looking ahead, requires a differentiated understanding of the concerns of those that remain unvaccinated. Guided by the elaboration likelihood model, this paper has two objectives: First, it explores by means of a latent class analysis how unvaccinated individuals might be characterized by their attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination. Second, we investigate to what extent (i) varying types of evidence (none/anecdotal/statistical) can be employed by (ii) different types of communicators (scientists/politicians) to improve vaccination intentions across these subgroups. To address these questions, we conducted an original online survey experiment among 2145 unvaccinated respondents from Germany where a substantial population share remains unvaccinated. The results suggest three different subgroups, which differ regarding their openness towards a COVID-19 vaccination: Vaccination opponents (N = 1184) , sceptics (N = 572) and those in principle receptive (N = 389) to be vaccinated. On average, neither the provision of statistical nor anecdotal evidence increased the persuasiveness of information regarding the efficacy of a COVID-19 vaccine. However, scientists were, on average, more persuasive than politicians (relatively increase vaccination intentions by 0.184 standard deviations). With respect to heterogeneous treatment effects among the three subgroups, vaccination opponents seem largely unreachable, while sceptics value information by scientists, particularly if supported by anecdotal evidence (relatively increases intentions by 0.45 standard deviations). Receptives seem much more responsive to statistical evidence from politicians (relatively increases intentions by 0.38 standard deviations). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Our methodology combines the subsystem approach to IO analysis and panel data regressions to capture how the productive linkages between services and manufacturing affect export performance. • In spite of the heterogeneous productive structures, the estimated price and income elasticities of export demand exhibited by the four Mediterranean economies do not differ much from the German ones. • The effect of labor costs on export performance is negligible in the five economies. • Non-price factors act as the main drivers of export growth. • Stronger linkages between KIBS and manufacturing stimulate non-price competitiveness. The relationship between manufacturing and services is not a matter of cost but rather one of innovation and product differentiation through the expansion of KIBS. Following the onset of the Eurozone crisis, Mediterranean economies (Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain) followed the example set by Germany, implementing structural reforms with the aim of restraining labor costs and transitioning to export-led growth. Using input–output tables, this paper analyzes the role of labor costs and non-price factors in the export performance of the manufacturing sectors in these Mediterranean economies and in Germany. We estimate an export model taking subsystems as units of analysis, permitting us to consider how the productive linkages between manufacturing and services affect export growth. Our results show that the effect of labor costs on export performance has been negligible in these five economies, while non-price factors stand out as the main drivers of export growth. In addition, we find that the development of stronger linkages between knowledge-intensive business services (KIBS) and manufacturing provides a substantial stimulus for non-price competitiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substantial changes in the energy system are necessary to achieve greenhouse gas neutrality. Green hydrogen is a key to defossilisation. Politicians frequently mention the use of hydrogen in the building sector to supply decentrally produced heat as a potential field of application. An advantage repeatedly mentioned is that the existing gas distribution network infrastructure is an important asset that could still be used in the future. However, there is a lack of analyses of the conversion of gas distribution networks to hydrogen focussing on the economic implications on the costs of the distribution network infrastructure. The paper provides insights using a techno-economic model network analysis (MNA) tool called gas Distribution grId modelliNg tOol (DINO). The analysis is carried out for Germany and considers hydrogen use in all counties. The results are compared to a synthetic methane and electrification scenario. In the hydrogen scenario, the total need for distribution grids is decreasing until 2050 by at least 130,000 km. The network length of the synthetic methane scenario is slightly lower and that of the electrification scenario drops to zero. The annual operation costs are lower in all scenarios as gas demand and infrastructure are reduced. Nevertheless, the total annual cost in the hydrogen scenario is potentially two times higher than in the case of the synthetic methane scenario and more than four times higher than in the electrification scenario. Based on the present results, it is questionable whether an advantage of the continued use of the existing gas distribution grid infrastructure in case of synthetic gas or hydrogen scenarios exists. • Impact of the energy transition on gas distribution networks by comparing three defossilisation pathways. • Application of a model network analysis to the use of hydrogen to derive the cost-optimal gas distribution networks. • First nationwide analysis of hydrogen in gas distribution grids based on the German case at the county level. • Decreasing demand for gas distribution infrastructure in all scenarios and highest costs in the case of hydrogen use. • Questionable advantage of continued infrastructure use in case of conversion of existing gas distribution networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the topic exhaustion and motivation when working from home. It is the first study from Germany to apply the job demands-resources model of Demerouti and Bakker [1] in the context of home office. By so doing, a deductive approach is followed, and a conceptual model is formed based on a comprehensive literature review with the inclusion of relevant publications up to April 2022. Subsequently, the model is exploratively adapted according to the results and a recommendation for practical action as well as suggestions for future studies are presented. The study was able to provide significant evidence that the communication climate has a positive influence on motivation, the perceived support, the connectedness and the trust between employee and supervisor. Further, trust is influenced by the perceived connectedness with the company. Finally, work pressure in the home office and the lack of segmentation have a positive impact on exhaustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper empirically analyzes which different pecuniary and non-pecuniary motives are relevant for sustainable investments at the individual level. We examine data from an incentivized framed field experiment that was part of an online survey among a broad sample of financial decision makers in Germany. We find strong preferences for sustainable funds. These preferences are driven by both pecuniary and non-pecuniary motives. We can largely confirm the results of previous studies showing that social preferences are key to explain individual sustainable investing. In addition, we identify feelings of warm glow, financial literacy, and environmental values as further key factors. Feelings of warm glow are most relevant of these factors. Our results are thus consistent with other recent results by Heeb et al. (2022), suggesting that positive emotions play an important role in sustainable investment behavior. Our findings provide useful implications for mobilizing individual investors for sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sector coupling will play a key role in the future energy system to realise greenhouse gas emission reductions. A major factor will be green hydrogen based on renewable energies to defossilise consumption sectors. Related business models of power to gas are not yet implemented on the market. However, given the urgency of the change, this is essential. This paper investigates hydrogen business models under current market conditions of high power prices, no existing market for green hydrogen and the given regulatory framework with no levies for green hydrogen production in the German market. For this purpose, an open-source business model evaluation tool for sector coupling, which enables a simple and generic evaluation of sector coupling business models including production and possible transportation infrastructure, is developed and applied. Furthermore, the impact of changes of the input parameters like power prices and the influence of regulatory changes on profitability are assessed. The results show that X-to-power business cases can be already profitable due to high power prices on the wholesale market. However, power-to-X business models like hydrogen production still have negative net present values and the net present value is worsened when infrastructure for hydrogen transportation is considered. Key parameters for the negative result are investment costs and low hydrogen prices. Nevertheless, it must be considered that higher hydrogen prices have a negative impact on the X-to-power business model. To allow for profitable business cases, the market conditions need to be adjusted to ensure sufficiently high prices for green hydrogen. Furthermore, subsidies on investment or operational and maintenance costs can support the integration of power-to-X into the market. Transportation infrastructure has a significant impact on profitability. Given these facts, it is necessary to create the required framework conditions to ensure the realisation of sector coupling. • Presentation of an open-source approach to assessing sector coupling business models. • Case study on hydrogen including renewables, transportation infrastructure, and regulatory and market conditions in Germany. • No market-based introduction of power-to-X business models without subsidies. • X-to-power business models profitable due to high power prices. • Power-to-X and X-to-Power jeopardise each other as they require opposing hydrogen and electricity prices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current European guidelines for the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) promote a vertical (European, national, regional and local policy goals) and horizontal (sectorial and operational plans) integrated mobility planning approach based on the involvement of different target groups. However, how this involvement is implemented in practice is not sufficiently researched, and empirical data that go beyond a single case study are still to be developed. This paper aims to fill this gap by presenting an empirical assessment of planning practices. Through a mixed-method approach combining grounded theory and quantitative data analysis techniques, including co-occurrences analysis, association rules and network analysis, we analysed planning documents (n = 67) and identified patterns in which target groups are involved through an array of participation methods aiming for different participation goals within German urban mobility planning. Our results point to the participation gap of professional stakeholders from the strategy development phases, which is rather kept at the decision-making level with input from researchers and consultants. Citizens are actively involved during the envisioning phases, but passively engaged after the implementation of measures. Conclusively, we reflect on these empirical findings from a methodological and operational point of view. • We provide a systematic overview of how and for which goals different social groups interact in German SUMP. • We combine Grounded Theory and quantitative data analysis techniques including co-occurrences analysis, association rules and network analysis. • Our research provides an input for methodological decisions when designing a participation strategy for a SUMP. • The research design may be of use to introduce reflexivity in the transdisciplinary development of sustainable urban mobility plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• It improves the comprehension of UHSWM from the triple bottom line perspective. • The paper offers opportunities to improve UHSWM in developing countries. • The three pillars of the German solid WM system support the opportunities revealed. • "Wasteaware" benchmarks and process flow diagrams are used for ISWM comparison. • Matrix quantification score was 98% for Münster (Germany) and 50% for Macaé (Brazil). Countries worldwide strive to improve their urban household solid waste management (UHSWM) practices. While developed countries like Germany have achieved good results with different UHSWM initiatives, developing countries still struggle to be effective with their waste management (WM) policies. With an interest in learning from the German experience, this paper provides a cross-case analysis between a German and a Brazilian city that can be of practical relevance to improving UHSWM in developing countries. The paper uses "process flow diagram" (PFD) and "wasteaware benchmark indicators" for integrated sustainable waste management (ISWM). Both methods confirmed the German city as a benchmark and attested the inefficiency of the Brazilian UHSWM. The total maximum score weightage percentage of the matrix quantification difference was significant, 98% against 50%. Findings highlight viable solutions based on the three pillars of the German solid WM system: clear laws, regular public campaigns, and fee methodology. The formalization and improvement of Brazilian UHSWM require better governance to obtain additional investments. Herein, the application of the Green Dot methodology, sponsored by industry and consumers in Germany, would enable an increase of up to 318% of the values received by a typical Brazilian cooperative. This additional investment can empower a sustainable solution where the population could opt to work with recycling, either as a formal employee or as a formal entrepreneur, shedding more light on the social pillar of the triple bottom line. Moreover, it can enable improvements in technologies, and on regular public campaigns to increase education in important sustainable matters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]