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Abstract: In this paper we aim to investigate the underlying mechanisms of the maintenance of ISO 14001. Initially, we looked into the Hillary''s [Hillary R. Evaluation of study reports on the barriers, opportunities and drivers for small and medium sized enterprises – the adoption of environmental management systems. Report for DTI Envirodoctorate 5th October, 1999. London: NEMA; 1999] evaluation study on barriers, opportunities and drivers for small and medium enterprises that adopted environmental management systems and we developed a comprehensive list of barriers identified in the literature. We have used this set of barriers to investigate the underlying mechanisms in the maintenance of ISO 14001 environmental management system through an in-depth longitudinal case study in manufacturing organisations. We have determined five underlying processes (transforming and value adding; administrating and improving; understanding and accepting; communicating and learning; availability of resources) and five key actors (external environment; environmental management team; ISO 14001 EMS; organisation; resources and skills), which interactions are captured in M-ISO model. Finally, based on our study we offer directions for future research. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Universities can nowadays be regarded as ‘small cities’ due to their large size, population, and the various complex activities taking place in campuses, which have some serious direct and indirect impacts on the environment. The environmental pollution and degradation caused by universities in form of energy and material consumption via activities and operations in teaching and research, provision of support services and in residential areas could be considerably reduced by an effective choice of organizational and technical measures. Although many environmental protection measures can be seen at some universities, but a more systematic and sustainable approach to reducing the negative impacts of those activities and making the campuses more sustainable, is generally lacking. Therefore, this paper proposes a framework of a more suitable approach to achieving campus sustainability that could remedy the limitations of the current environmental management practices in universities and ensures more sustainability through the integration of three strategies, namely: university Environmental Management System (EMS); public participation and social responsibility; and promoting sustainability in teaching and research. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Process Integration (PI) for resource conservation has become an increasingly popular topic of research in line with growing emphasis toward circular economy and rising concern on environmental protection. PI for resource conservation in continuous processes has been relatively well-established as compared to PI developments for batch processes that have lagged behind and are gradually getting attention. This paper presents a comprehensive and up-to-date review on the development and future research direction of batch process integration (BPI) methodologies for resource conservation covering energy, water and other types of industrial resources. The BPI methodologies are categorized according to batch process scheduling flexibility. The first category is the fixed, or pre-specified schedule BPI methodologies whereby time is treated as a parameter. The second category is the flexible or variable-schedule BPI methodologies that considers time as a variable. The fixed and flexible-schedule batch processes are further sub-divided and analyzed as graphical and mathematical programming-based BPI tools. Covering literature from 2000 to 2021 that comprises more than 160 publications in over twenty years period on BPIRC progress, trends and direction, the review highlights the significant role of BPI in driving small to medium scale industries toward cleaner production and circular economy. Review on twenty year progress, direction and impact of batch process integration related to conservation of energy, water and other resources that contributes toward cleaner production and circular economy. [Display omitted] • Lack of review on batch process integration (BPI) for resource conservation. • BPI contributes toward cleaner production and circular economy. • Review classified based on resource type, schedule flexibility and type of BPI tools. • Six key areas of development covering energy, water and other materials. • Twenty year progress, direction and impact of BPI on small to medium scale industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most important reason for waste collection is the protection of the environment and the health of the population. Reverse logistics is applied in the sustainable management of municipal waste and is used in the collection, recycling and reuse, as well as the reduction of consumables and environmental compatibility. One of the challenges of sustainable management is costs and customer demand must be considered simultaneously. In this paper, we try to address a comprehensive approach by applying fuzzy mathematical programming to design a multi-objective model for a reverse logistics network. To cover all aspects of this system, we tried to minimize the cost of facility construction, vehicle fuel and environmental damage from the emission of polluting gases, as well as minimize the sum of the ratio of unanswered customer demand to the amount of their demand for all periods, as objective functions of the model. In order to obtain solutions on the Pareto front, a customized multi-objective genetic algorithm (NSGAII) and a customized bee colony algorithm (BCO) were applied. The results of the two algorithms according to the indicators of quality comparison, spacing, diversification and solution time have been compared. The results showed that in all cases, the bee colony algorithm was better able to explore and extract the area to a feasible solution and to achieve near-optimal answers. In terms of spacing metric and resolution time, the genetic algorithm performed better than the bee algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PM 2.5 emissions has become a serious issue in China with enormous regional variation in economic development, resource endowment, and consumption patterns, which leads to great variations in regional PM 2.5 emissions and embodied PM 2.5 transfer among provinces. The spatial and temporal evolution pattern of PM 2.5 and its influencing factors are important issues in the study of air pollution emissions and control, which could help policy makers allocate emission responsibilities and reduction targets. Based on the perspective of final consumption, this paper uses a multiregional input-output model to estimate PM 2.5 emissions in 30 provinces in different years in China, applies a geographically weighted regression model to analyze different driving factors, and then analyzes the spatial heterogeneity of consumption-based PM 2.5 emissions. The results show that consumption-based PM 2.5 presents a significant reduction trend, although the separation of production and consumption areas of PM 2.5 emission is further intensified. The provinces with rich energy but relatively backward economies and manufacturing industries correspond to the primary net inflow of PM 2.5 , while the provinces with strong consumption ability and the most developed economies and industries present a net outflow of PM 2.5. Moreover, the slowdown of consumption growth and the improvement of consumption quality have a positive impact on PM 2.5 emission reductions. The optimization of industrial structure has a more significant impact on pollution control and haze reduction in the western region, while the improvement of energy utilization efficiency and rational use of construction land are more conducive to the reduction of consumption-based PM 2.5 emissions in the eastern region. From the perspective of temporal and spatial changes, significant spatial differences occur between regions. Energy consumption, environmental protection investment and construction land show the trend of " high value area diffusion and low value area reduction". • Explores the spatial distribution characteristics of PM 2.5 emissions in China from the perspective of consumption. • Consider and analyze the inter-annual variation of pollutant emission transfer. • Clarifies the spatial heterogeneity characteristics of influencing factors. • Emphasizes the importance of further optimizing influencing factors to reduce haze from the consumption end. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental protection, including rational waste management, is one of the main goals of sustainable development. Scientists are continuously searching for new approaches and solutions to counteract an increasing environmental pollution. Zeolites, due to their unique properties are a subject of an ongoing scientific research for applications as adsorbents and ion exchangers in numerous areas of agriculture and environmental protection. In agriculture, studies mainly concentrate around the application of natural zeolite which can be a useful soil conditioner and an additive to fertilizer. However, the main focus of attention in the environmental remediation is currently on synthesized zeolites. Because the main product of coal combustion, namely fly ash, exhibits similar chemical composition to a zeolite, it is a promising low-cost material for their synthesis. Although numerous papers have been published regarding zeolites' application in agriculture and environmental protection, their great potential has not been fully explored yet. This review presents state-of-art achievements in synthesis and modifications of zeolites and also an overview of their application in agricultural production and protection of water, air, and soil. Issues relating to cost of regeneration of zeolite adsorbents, estimated costs of their mining and production from fly ash are also discussed. • Environmental remediation and agriculture applications of natural, modified, and synthesized zeolite have been reviewed. • Modified and synthesized zeolites are promising for adsorption of pollutants in soil, water and air. • Further development and designing of new zeolite adsorbents are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines factors underlying firms' investments in environmental protection (green investments). Using micro data from Ireland's industry sector over the period 2008–2016, we analyse a range of factors internal to firms such as firm characteristics, as well as external factors including environmental regulations, competition and spillover effects from other firms' green investment decisions. Our results indicate that larger firms, importers, and firms which are part of an enterprise group are more likely to invest in equipment for pollution control and in equipment linked to cleaner technologies. Within industry competition incentivizes firms to invest in equipment linked to cleaner technologies. Further, our results indicate that the propensity of firms to invest in equipment for pollution control are higher for more energy-intensive firms. Finally, our results uncover significant positive spillover effects from firms with green investments in the same industry or the same region on firms' decisions to invest on environmental protection. • Only a small proportion of firms invest in equipment for environmental protection. • Larger firms are more likely to invest in equipment for environmental protection. • Local firms and importers are more likely to invest in environmental protection. • Within industry competition incentivizes firms to investment in cleaner technologies. • There are positive spillovers within industry and within region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Before conducting a comprehensive impact assessment, such as a life cycle impact assessment (LCIA), there is a need to discuss the range of impacts which could and should be included. Up to this point of time, there has not been a comprehensive list of impacts for potential inclusion available. This research builds upon previous work which surveyed a large component of the comprehensive impact assessment field for cataloging and analysis in greater detail and then expanded it to include those midpoints, endpoints, and damages which could be covered in a more comprehensive impact assessment. In this paper, a seminal effort in the form of a meta-model is presented to facilitate an expanded discussion of the taxonomy of this field. Upon using existing models it was apparent the taxonomy needed to be structured to represent midpoint, endpoint, damage, and weighted levels as they relate to areas of protection for the impact assessment phase. Contrary to recent use in the LCIA field, a distinction will be made between an endpoint measure (which is more of a “count” of impacts) and a damage measure (which is a value-weighted aggregation of two or more endpoints). The authors present a representation of all four levels of impact assessment: midpoint, endpoint, damage, and weighted. This taxonomy was developed to include the existing impacts found in LCIA literature, and then expanded to be more comprehensive and include a larger set of impacts than are normally included within LCIA. The authors recognize this is the first of many steps necessary to capture all potential impacts that should be considered when conducting a comprehensive environmental assessment. The intent is to propose a taxonomy that would greatly facilitate the accumulation and communication of empirical and theoretical knowledge gained by offering a standard vocabulary and structure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Pollution Prevention 1997: A National Progress Report identifies pollution prevention initiatives as potentially the most effective for reducing risks to human health and the environment, as well as the most cost-effective method of environmental protection. So it is no surprise that much of the implementation of pollution prevention by local governments has been driven due to the cost savings it provides. Pollution prevention initiatives have been proven to reduce costs, improve efficiency, reduce risk, reduce liability, and provide a safer work environment. However, as many local governments have experienced budget and resource reductions, their pollution prevention programs have been impacted. Local governments, working to continue pollution prevention initiatives in spite of declining budgets, have had to change their approaches, be creative, and innovate. Montgomery County, Maryland has implemented a number of pollution prevention strategies for its own County operations. The linkages established between cost savings they achieve and environmental benefits provided have been used to continue to expand the County''s pollution prevention efforts. This paper provides an overview of the pollution prevention measures and approaches that have been implemented in Montgomery County for its internal operations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: For over a decade, organizations involved in promoting pollution prevention/cleaner production (P2–CP) to businesses have been asking business managers to change the way they think. But perhaps the greatest adoption of P2–CP will occur when organizations take advantage of the way business managers already think, using strategies of business-to-business (B2B) marketing. In this paper, we trace the evolution of P2–CP promotion from an Educational Strategy, through a Diffusion Strategy, and finally to the B2B Strategy. We argue that P2–CP adoption can be significantly increased if organizations apply the techniques of companies that make their living from selling innovations to businesses and use the B2B markets to bring P2–CP innovations to businesses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Accelerated Diffusion of Pollution Prevention Technologies (ADOP2T) is a stepwise model designed to improve the implementation rate of pollution prevention technologies. It focuses on reducing the uncertainty associated with new technologies by providing demonstrations and “how-to” knowledge through pilot testing. Three university-based technical assistance programs collaborated to promote implementation of pollution prevention technologies using the ADOP2T model. This paper briefly describes the model, and discusses the experiences, observations, and results obtained by the technical assistance programs that used the model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In 1989 Canada established a national goal; divert 50 percent of the nation''s municipal solid waste from disposal by 2000. The province of Nova Scotia was the first and only province to achieve this goal. In the early 1990s, Nova Scotia relied on substandard land-based disposal, incineration, and open burning. Pollution prevention was minimal. In 1995, Nova Scotia adopted a comprehensive, province-wide strategy based on pollution prevention to fundamentally change its historical approach and to achieve the diversion goal. The strategy has been effective, has achieved substantial environmental benefits, and program costs are comparable to other North American systems. This paper examines and analyzes the strategy and its current construct to assess whether the Nova Scotia strategy is a model program worthy of consideration at national and other sub-national levels. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The main purpose of this study is to investigate cleaner production practices in Turkey. This paper also examines the approaches to environmental management, environmental technologies and environmental performance of big firms in Turkey. For this purpose, a questionnaire survey was designed. According to this survey, it can be stated that the approaches of the firms to environmental management are closer to the proactive approach but the cost of the environmentally conscious business practices is still considered as an obstacle for being more proactive on environmental management. The fact that ISO 14001 EMS motivates the firms to use resources for pollution prevention and to apply cleaner production practices can be stated from the results of the survey. According to the results of the survey, it can be stated that ISO 14001 EMS enhances the environmental performance of the firms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The paper reviews some of the many initiatives and efforts to build networks and institute policies promoting sustainable production and consumption (SPAC) values and practices in North America since the 1992 UN Conference on Environment and Development. It analyzes a selection of SPAC initiatives in Canada and USA from the NASCA/CEC database, drawing also on interviews with representatives from government, businesess, consumer and environmental organizations on their experience and efforts to “take the lead” in influencing public opinion and behavior as well as government and corporate policy towards SPAC. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Efficiency and sustainability of grain production has now been an important issue in China. Aiming at analyzing such efficiency and sustainability in different parts of China, the grain production system of Jiangsu and Shaanxi Provinces was analyzed and compared by means of using emergy method in this study. The results showed that deterioration of emergy input structure (inorganic assistant emergy inputs increased drastically while organic ones decreased or increased little) affected the grain production system''s efficiency and sustainability of both provinces, and the situation of Jiangsu Province is more serious than that of Shaanxi Province. According to the results of efficiency and sustainability analysis, this paper suggests that we should utilize environmental resources abstemiously and dramatically to reduce the assistant emergy input structure into the grain production system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Based upon a survey on household electronic and electrical equipment, this paper provides information on the public''s perception of the local environmental quality, environmental awareness and environmental performance, and of their willingness to pay for improving environmental quality and making green purchases. The results indicate that Ningbo residents are not satisfied with the local environmental quality, and they would like very much to share environmental responsibility. About 64% of the respondents are aware of Chinese environmental labeling. Nearly 70% and 80% of the respondents are willing to pay for environmental improvement and to purchase environmentally friendly products, respectively. The amount of household electrical and electronic equipment has increased dramatically and most of them are phased out within their product lifetimes. Of all the respondents, 61% chose to reuse and recycle waste electrical and electronic equipment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents the findings from a research project which set out to understand the type of requirements that industrial designers have of ecodesign tools, through the use of a web based prototype. Through qualitative data collection and analysis a number of important criteria for ecodesign tools were identified. The conclusions recognise the importance of developing holistic tools for industrial designers, identifying that a combination of guidance, education and information, along with well considered content, appropriate presentation and easy access, are all critical to their success. A framework for ecodesign tools for industrial designers is presented along with the evolution of ‘Information/Inspiration’ into a fully working web-based tool. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents findings from a case study of a product development project in which environmental performance requirements were introduced. Focus is set on how the project was organised in order to ensure that the environmental performance requirements were considered. A specific “Green” sub-project was included in the project organisation. The analysis shows that such a sub-project can: (1) serve as a means to put environmental considerations on the agenda, (2) introduce a risk for confusion regarding who is responsible for fulfilling the environmental performance requirements, (3) act as an arena for communication about the environmental performance requirements, (4) serve as a platform for environmental champions to be active, and (5) serve as a means for environmental specialists to become part of established contact networks in the product development organisation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: By interacting with their suppliers and their customers, manufacturing organizations can potentially develop and implement more effective solutions to environmental challenges they are facing. This paper explores the outcome, in terms of operational performance, of green project partnership in the supply chain. Green project partnership, defined here as the degree of interaction between organizations in the supply chain regarding pollution prevention, can take place upstream with the suppliers and downstream with the customers. Using the data from a survey of the Canadian and United States package printing industry, the linkage between green project partnership and five performance indicators was tested. The results indicate that green project partnership with customers was positively linked to quality, flexibility and environmental performance while partnership with suppliers was associated with better delivery performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is developing eco-efficiency indicators (EEIs) in an effort to build a framework for a sustainable production system for the Canadian food and beverage industry (FBI). This paper presents the rationale and the framework of the project currently under development addressing the following environmental issues: energy use, emission of greenhouse gases, water use and wastewater generation, organic residues, and packaging residues. Proposed EEIs are intensity indicators and recycling ratios, and include environmental pressure modulators. They will be developed based on collected data and estimated impact levels, and reported by FBI sub-sector, geographical location, and establishment size. Objectives and methodologies are outlined. Problems on getting quality and reliable data on selected environmental issues are emphasized. The methodology will be published in 2005 and first results are due by 2008. Benchmarking and linkage to specific processing operations and management practices will help regulators and industries in promoting and implementing cleaner production initiatives and will lead to operational cost savings, product innovation, and enhanced competitiveness. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Cleaner production stakeholders have a strong desire for industry to consider cleaner production opportunities in their facilities and once they are assessed, to follow through on their implementation. This paper examines local and international initiatives within the Canadian stakeholder community (including government, NGOs, consultants, industry) that contribute to the initiation and implementation of cleaner production in industry. Specifically, stakeholders have consciously drafted regulatory compliance, education, co-funding incentives, and development-based cleaner production programs. As illustrated by case studies from six industries, the programs work together to create a climate favorable for implementation of cleaner production concepts and approaches. Based on the cleaner production drivers and barriers identified by research, the programs are well designed. However, as with cleaner production itself, there is always room for further improvement. Specifically: (i) regulatory compliance programs and timetables should leave room for cleaner production (versus end-of-pipe) approaches; (ii) cleaner production co-funding programs should target small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) and require them to use a multimedia approach (air, water, waste); (iii) education programs should incorporate demonstration assessments, feasibility assessments of common recommendations, and follow-up communication to foster implementation and continuous improvement; and (iv) mandated cleaner production should include absolute (i.e. waste/tonne production) rather than relative standards (i.e. X% reduction from status quo) in order to avoid penalizing historically proactive corporations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper describes a study undertaken by the Eco-Efficiency Centre of the levels of eco-efficiency demonstrated by small and medium enterprises in Nova Scotia. The history of eco-efficiency is described and several definitions of the term put forward by the many agencies and organizations promoting it are discussed. Emphasis is placed on definitions used in Canada, particularly those of Industry Canada and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. After reviewing a large number of environmental management and eco-efficiency tools, the Centre determined that none of these were appropriate for small businesses in Nova Scotia and opted to develop its own checklist. The study concludes that levels of eco-efficiency are quite low among businesses in different sectors and furthermore, that more work is needed to find appropriate tools for micro and small businesses that can be more widely used. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper reports the findings of a study conducted to identify the appropriate policy strategies for cleaner production in Zambia. Through direct consultation with industry and other stakeholders, it was observed that the major constraints that hindered implementation of cleaner production in the industry were financial problems, poor/weak enforcement of environmental laws, lack of knowledge, lack of awareness and lack of technical competence. Similarly, potential motivators for cleaner production in industry were identified and included the macro-economic climate, economic reforms and policies, economic incentives, regulation and environmental leadership. In conclusion, the low levels of cleaner production adoption were mainly due to the lack of environmental standards in some industries, low levels of cleaner production awareness, limited understanding of commercial and economic benefits of utilisation of cleaner production approaches, inadequate institutional arrangements for the promotion and implementation of cleaner production and the lacklustre enforcement of existing environmental laws. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, a new method is presented for estimating the environmental efficiency of 15 thermo power plants (TPPs) and their evolution over the years. In particular, the plant environmental efficiency, defined as a function of consumptions, costs and emissions (SO2, NOx, ash, and CO2) are considered, taking into account the fuel adopted. The approach is based on a two-step procedure. Firstly, a “Multi Criteria Decision Making” (MCDM) technique is applied to rank the TPPs as a function of the environmental efficiency. In particular the “Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution” (TOPSIS) is used to order the plants according the six different criteria. Secondary, the TOPSIS ranking analysis is applied with reference to a fuel pollution indicator proposed in the literature, which makes it possible to consider its “environmental quality”. The integration of the pollution indicator with the TOPSIS ranking makes it possible to obtain a graphical output that shows the comparison of the environmental performances between the different plants analysed in an easy and intuitive manner. In addition, concerning the data available for a number of years, it is also possible to study the TPPs environmental efficiency evolution over time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Within the framework of the realisation of the IPPC-Directive, the techniques and the possible abatement options have to be characterised on a process level with regard to environmental benefits, technical practicability and especially economic feasibility. Therefore, the reference installation approach, which has been developed within the preparation framework of the new “multi-pollutant and multi-effects” protocol of the UN/ECE and which follows the CORINAIR nomenclature, is being proposed as an approach for the comprehensive assessment of technological and economic properties of relevant base processes and emission reduction options/techniques. This paper puts up for discussion the use of this concept within the proposed cross-media assessment approach for the determination of BAT (Best Available Techniques). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The paper presents an overview of the experience of pollution prevention centres (PPCs) established in Central and Eastern Europe by the World Environment Center (WEC) with a special emphasis on the experience of the PPCs in Lithuania. The WEC established 11 PPCs, which still constitute the majority of pollution prevention/cleaner production centres in the region. The centres were established as independent industry consulting firms specialising in pollution prevention practices and technologies. The PPCs were created in partnerships with host institutions and received training in PP as well as in business planning, branding and marketing. Though WEC’s financial support largely ceased in 1998–1999, nine of the 11 PPCs became self-sufficient and continue to operate. The capacity built in the Lithuanian PPC resulted not only from its association with WEC, but also from other significant donor funded programmes in the region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper reviews improvement options for environmentally sound and cost-effective short sea shipping based on co-operation with shipping companies and shipyards. In operation, fuel can be saved by pre-treatment of bunker oil, proper tuning of engines and use of antifouling agents. Machine chamber waste can be reduced by quality control of lubricants and engine maintenance. Redesign of ships and use of gasoil instead of heavy oil, enables pollution reduction, a 40–45% fuel saving, reduction of acidification by 75–80%, no soot and less sludge. Less toxic antifouling and a watershaft instead of propulsion lubricant can be used at low extra cost. A dedicated trade makes it possible to reduce sailing speed and handling in harbours, which save fuel up to 20% and reduce waiting time in harbours. The improvements reduce the life cycle costs of ships but require more initial investment. Auditing, demonstration projects and policy instruments like tariff differentiation foster good environmental practices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Although ISO 14031 gives guidelines for environmental performance evaluation, there is limited experience of applying the standard in the area of benchmarking and external rating, especially when limitations of data quality are considered. This paper evaluates the importance of the data quality of operational performance indicators (OPIs, in this case emission factors) as a limiting factor for benchmarking and external rating between six cement plants in Sweden, Norway and Finland for three types of emissions, dust, NOx and SO2. Monthly emission factors for 1993–1999 were collected for these plants and a quality assurance process was undertaken to eliminate factors that decreased comparability. The data were tested against six hypotheses concerning different aspects of the variation of the emission factors. One of the findings was that there is no sharp limit when the quality of emission factors is high enough to make it possible to compare, since quality is a qualitative conception in itself. Instead, organisations using emission factors should strive to adapt a system with quality assurance of emission factors, resulting in widely accpeted emission factors suitable for comparison between plants. This is achieved with a sector specific methodology which can handle irrelevant differences and reflects real differences in environmental performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Environmental awareness raising, education and training, on a wide scale, are required to ensure societal adoption of sustainable development. ENVIROCARE, an interactive multimedia educational CD-ROM, has been developed by a transnational partnership to provide such environmental education for vocational students. The programme, available in English, Dutch, German and Portuguese, is designed to provide training for students to show the impact that industry can have on the environment and how they can reduce such impacts when they enter the workforce, by implementing the concepts and approaches of Cleaner Production. The paper describes the development of ENVIROCARE, its contents and structure, the lessons learned in its creation and future challenges. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Innovation has been valued as a main driving force of social development, and the need for environmental protection has further raised green innovation development. Previous studies have confirmed that industrial agglomeration has an innovation spillover effect, and furthermore it varies with different agglomeration modes. However, the addition of environmental regulation could exert effects on the innovation spillover of industrial agglomeration. Based on Chinese provincial panel data from 2003 to 2017, this paper tested the effect of different agglomeration modes on green technology innovation (green process innovation and green product innovation) under environmental regulation. Research found that: when industrial agglomeration promotes green technology innovation, environmental regulation will inhibit agglomeration innovation; when industrial agglomeration hinders green technology innovation, environmental planning will promote agglomeration innovation. The regional difference of cluster development are obvious in China, and the effect of agglomeration innovation in different regions is also different. In the implementation of environmental regulation for each region, it is necessary to combine the current situation of cluster development to effectively promote green technology innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the problems of environmental pollution, from 2015, the Chinese government launched its most stringent environmental supervision program in history, Central Inspections of Environmental Protection, and completed the first round nationwide inspections by the end of 2017. This paper focuses on the impact of this policy shock on air quality based on daily data from 286 cities in China and uses a regression discontinuity design to test the effectiveness of the policy on improving air quality. Cross-city analyses suggest that, the overall reduction effects on Air Quality Index (AQI) were not significant. Of the examined pollutants, more substantial reductions in SO 2 and PM 10 concentrations, by 6.3%–7.7% and 3.3%–5.4%, respectively, were observed immediately after the policy implementation. However, the reduction effects on PM 2.5 , CO, and NO 2 were not significant, and no reduction effect was observed for O 3. City-specific analyses show that most of the cities that experienced statistically significant policy effects are located in North China and feature high baseline pollutant concentration levels. The early warning effect and persistence of the effect of the policy were also discussed. On the one hand, significant reductions in NO 2 , CO, and SO 2 occurred 6 weeks, 4 weeks, and 2 weeks, respectively, prior to the entry dates of the inspection team. On the other hand, the policy effects decayed significantly immediately after the "on-site" inspection ended. This study implies that a sustainable environmental governance system is necessary and that applying a regression discontinuity design based on high-density time series data is valid for environmental policy evaluation. Image 1 • Policy effects of Chinese CIEP on air quality were assessed with RD method. • CIEP was found to have statistically significant reductions effects on SO 2 and PM 10. • CIEP had insignificant reduction effects on PM 2.5 , CO, and NO 2 but no effect on O 3. • More substantial policy effects were found in cities with serious air pollution. • Early warning exists for various pollutants but no effects persistence was found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Central Environmental Protection Inspection (CEPI) is an important innovative measure meant to improve the health of China's environment. In view of this, based on the "quasi natural experiment" situation of the implementation of CEPI in China, this paper takes as its research sample 155 A-share listed companies located in the provinces in which CEPI was first implemented. Our work uses the event study method to explore the reaction of China's capital market to this policy implementation. The results show two significant findings. (1) CEPI will cause the capital market to react negatively because of the environmental protection pressure that it brings to bear on corporations; that is, the capital market will experience significantly negative abnormal returns due to the signals sent by CEPI. (2) Further analysis shows that the multiple heterogeneity factors will have an impact on the capital market's reaction to CEPI. Specifically, at the corporate level, we find that firms that cause heavy pollution, firms that are small-scale, and firms with weak political connections are more sensitive to the market's reaction to the CEPI policy; at the regional levels, the effect is more significant in areas with high environmental performance. • Research empirically tests the capital market's reaction to China's CEPI policy in 2016 using the event study method. • The capital market experiences significantly negative abnormal returns due to the signals sent by CEPI. • Research analyzes the multiple heterogeneity factors at the corporate and regional levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycled water is an effective method to rescue regional water shortages and promote environmental protection. As for end users of recycled water, public attitudes and acceptance are important links in water recycling projects. Recycled water in this paper refers to the use of recycled water other than for drinking. Six regions with different water scarcity levels in China were selected as the study areas. Randomly selected samples from the residents of the six cities were obtained. Data were collected through a questionnaire survey. Based on the social cognitive theory of "environment–cognition–behavioral," this study employs structure equation modelling and analyzes public environmental cognitions and their impacts on public acceptance of recycled water to identify the influencing factors and their influencing paths on public acceptance of recycled water. On the basis of these, this study further explores how regional water shortage information disclosure affects public acceptance of recycled water through public perceptions. The results are as follows: (1) Regional water shortage information disclosure and public awareness of water environment protection positively affect public acceptance of recycled water, and regional water shortage information disclosure indirectly affects public acceptance of recycled water by influencing public awareness of water environment protection; (2) public perceptions of health risks of recycled water negatively affect public acceptance of recycled water; and (3) regional water shortage information disclosure can boost the public's environment cognitions and thus promotes the public's awareness of water environment protection; ultimately, this will boost the public acceptance of recycled water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper attempts to provide a more systematic view of the relationship between environmental information disclosure (EID) and environmental consequences to reconcile the existing conceptual controversy and empirical inconclusiveness. Hence, using a panel data of 113 major Chinese key environmental protection cities from 2008 to 2018, this study adopts the estimations of dynamic generalized method of moments (GMM), quantile regression, panel threshold model, and dynamic spatial Durbin model (SDM) to investigate the effect of EID on environmental quality. The non-spatial empirical results indicate that EID exerts a positive influence on environmental quality in a particular region, and there is a double threshold for the impact of EID. This impact becomes pronounced and then strengthened when the level of economic development reaches critical threshold values. Moreover, the first-order lag effect of environmental quality and spatial autocorrelation are needed to be incorporated. In terms of spatial econometric estimation, the results show a positive direct while negative indirect relationship between EID and environmental quality, making the total effect nearly zero. These findings are evidenced in both the short-term (contemporaneous) and long-term (cumulative) span, which reveals so-called beggar-thy-neighbor as well as a zero-sum game among local governments. Overall, this study highlights the crucial role of EID in affecting environmental quality and calls for a mutually beneficial coordination between regions. Image 1 • Identify a positive effect of EID on environmental quality in a particular region. • Include the dynamic and spatial spillover effects to avoid biased results. • Identify a positive direct while negative indirect link between EID and environmental quality. • Provide an evidence of zero-sum pattern in China's environmental governance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Big data applications, from its inception have experienced unprecedented changes in technological revolution and development. The need of the hour is to use big data to break through the incompatible bottleneck of environment protection and development. Therefore, this paper constructs a theoretical model to evaluate the changes of relative benefits big data have on R&D through "substitution effects", "complementary effects", and further lead to directed technical change and its impact on the environmental quality. For better understanding the role of big data, we compare different impacts on environmental quality both by considering the big data application and by ignoring it. In addition, we analyze the required environmental regulation policy adjustments under the influence of big data. The results show that: (1) By improving the relative benefits of clean technology R&D, the application of big data further enhances the quality of the environment. (2) Mere relying on the application of big data alone cannot prevent environmental disasters, but it must be supplemented with conducive environmental regulation policy to achieve the best results. (3) The application of big data can reduce the "subsidy" for clean technology R&D to avoid environmental disasters, while the impact of big data on "environmental taxes" varies with the development of clean technology levels. The results of this research will help to clarify the positive effects of big data on environmental quality and implement reasonable environmental regulation policy. • Big data as a factor of production and can endogenize into the production function. • The model constructed by substitution effects and complementary effects on big data. • Big data leads to directed technical change, and improves environmental quality. • Relying on big data alone cannot prevent environmental disasters. • Big data reduces the subsidy, while taxes vary with different clean technology levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-medical waste (BMW) management is highly important precaution for human health and environmental concern. There are several disposal treatment followed by medical practitioners in medical waste management. Here, a few disposal treatment is considered to be an alternatives. When assessing, it is necessary to evaluate and assume that all disposal treatment methods are safe and hygienic. In this way, every alternative assessment is evaluated based on the social acceptance, technology and operation, environmental protection, cost, noise and health risk. Finally the best alternative is chosen. When BMW is disposed and we select the best treatment method in BMW management, it can lead to multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) processes related to uncertain critical assessments. When making a decision, the decision makers having some hesitation to give their suggestions. Therefore, here we use hesitant MCDM method. In today's practice we have choose five methods of BMW disposal methods used in the medical world and we have its alternatives. One of these alternative is sorted by six criteria weights for selecting the best method. The main aim of this research paper is propose a new methodology of hesitant fuzzy weight finding technique, it is named as Hesitant Fuzzy Subjective and Objective Weight Integrated Approach (HF-SOWIA) and also propose a new hesitant fuzzy rank finding methodology, it is named as Hesitant Fuzzy Multi-Objective Optimization on the basis of Simple Ratio Analysis (HF-MOOSRA). After evaluation, the result shows that autoclaving is the best alternative for BMW disposal treatment methods. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis is make in order to observe the difference of alternative ranking when the importance of subjective and objective weights changes. • A new novel approach of waste disposal for bio-medical waste was proposed. • A modified and efficient weighting technique is presented. • We proposed a new extension named as hesitant fuzzy SOWIA and hesitant fuzzy MOOSRA. • Our results are validated with hesitant fuzzy multi criteria-decision making methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China has a large population and limited land resources. The dearth of available land poses considerable challenges for economic development and environmental protection. In order to realize maximum benefits through the optimization of land use structure, land use structure efficiency (LUSE) becomes an important planning guideline for the sustainable development of a region. This paper conducts a case study in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River (MRYR) and investigates the LUSE of the region considering the effect of carbon emissions from 1995 to 2018 by using the slack-based measure with undesirable output (SBM-Undesirable) model and Markov transition probability matrix with spatial effect. The results show that: (1) the average LUSE in the study area is 0.652 when the carbon emissions are not considered, compared with that of 0.569 when the carbon emissions are factored in. The comparative result indicates that carbon emissions have a great impact on the LUSE; (2) the LUSE has a rising trend during the study period (except for 2010) starting with a value of 0.463 in 1995 and ending with a value of 0.671 in 2018. Furthermore, the spatial pattern of the LUSE in the study area has been through a drastic change, with the high-value areas clustered at a single center in 1995 evolving to a multiple-center pattern in 2018; (3) High LUSE areas have a positive spillover effect on its neighboring areas, while low LUSE areas have negative spillover effects. The results can provide insights into the optimization of land use structure and the efficient utilization of land resources. This study also suggests that policy makers should optimize the industrial structure and propose policy initiatives oriented towards goals of energy-saving and emission reduction to facilitate regional planning and sustainable development. • LUSE was measured with the SBM-Undesirable model. • The effect of carbon emissions had a great impact on the LUSE. • LUSE had a rising trend in the MRYR from 1995 to 2018. • Markov transition probability matrix with spatial effect was used to reveal spatial association characteristics of LUSE. • LUSE had a significant spatial spillover effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron and steel sector is the largest industrial energy consumer and emission source of greenhouse gas and air pollutants in China. Therefore, it is imperative to conduct a quantitative assessment for energy conservation potential and environmental benefits of China's iron and steel industry. Energy efficiency improvement, EAF promotion and charcoal substitution are efficient measures to achieve cleaner and sustainable development. In this paper, five scenarios are designed for comprehensively analyzing the multiple factors influencing the potential for energy conservation and emission reduction. Furthermore, emissions reduction benefits of air pollutants are combined with Conservation Supply Curves to accurately evaluate the cost of the technology. A comprehensive emission inventory of air pollutants is established. The results show that under the synergistic effects of charcoal substitution, EAF improvement and energy efficiency improvement, significant environmental benefits have been achieved. Energy intensity was reduced obviously from 16.59 GJ/t-steel in 2017 to 14.46 GJ/t-steel in 2030 in integrated scenario, while the emission intensity of GHG, SO 2 , NO x , PM 2.5 , PM 10 , CO and VOCs in 2030 is decreased by 21.53%, 14.59%, 17.07%, 0.16%, 0.22%, 16.5% and 20.67% compared with business-as-usual scenario. In addition, combining Conservation Supply Curves with emissions reduction benefits can significantly reduce the cost of the technology, which has a great significance to the popularization and application of technologies. Sensitivity analysis in terms of discount rate and energy price is conducted. This study could help policy makers to cast light on the status quo and prompt more effective policies for China's iron and steel industry. Image 1 • Energy conservation and emission reduction supply curve model was established. • Mitigation potential of three greenhouse gases and six air pollutants were studied. • The effect of charcoal substitution in the iron-making process was evaluated. • Five scenarios were set to assess the energy saving and mitigation potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Techniques for controlling rural non-point source pollution (RNSP) represent cleaner production techniques that can provide an effective guarantee for regional sustainable development. The majority of studies on RNSP control technologies are mainly aimed at handling only a single pollution source. However, such studies are difficult to perform in rural areas, which have dense populations, complex terrains and extreme climates, such as the Three Gorges Reservoir Area (TGRA), China. Therefore, this paper focuses on the application of the RNSP control technologies based on the following four aspects: crop planting, livestock production, domestic inputs and water-level-fluctuating (WLF) zone. Based on the unique topography, land features and planting patterns of the TGRA, a three-dimensional (3D) and multi-source integrated technology system for controlling RNSP was established according to the principle of source reduction, runoff regulation, and nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) loss control. From the results of the long-term observations, the risk of RNSP has been significantly reduced in the study area. The nutrient capacity of the soil increased by 9–15%, while the chemical fertilizer application reduced by 30–50%. The loss of sediment, N and P were reduced by 60–80%, 30–70% and 50–90% in the sloping land at the backslope, respectively, by 30–60%, 70–90%, and 70–90% in the paddy field at the footslope, respectively, and by 75–90%, 30–50%, 65–95% in the WLF zone, respectively. The average removal rates of COD, NH 3 -N and TN in sewage in the residential area were higher than 82%, 87% and 63.3%, respectively. Overall, more than 90% of RNSP was reduced by using this 3D and multi-source technology system, and it can be widely promoted for controlling RNSP in similar ecological areas with support from local governments by implementing effective measures, such as strengthening environmental protection education and government subsidies. Image 1 • A multi-source integrated technology system was constructed to control RNSP in the TGRA. • A 3D controlling mode was adopted to intercept RNSP based on the terrain of TGRA. • More than 90% RNSP was reduced by this 3D and multi-source technology system. • This technology system promoted the sustainable development of environment in the TGRA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Promoting the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system in an all-round way has become an essential part of China's environmental regulations. A tripartite game model among the Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB) department, producers and the public is constructed based on the non-cooperative evolutionary game theory. Then this paper uses a system dynamics method to simulate and analyze the proposed game model. It is found that benefits of "strict regulation" strategy and financial subsidies subsidized by a superior EPB help to ease behavioral conflicts among game players, but their positive moderating impacts are scant. Effects of administrative fines and rectification due to the "relaxed regulation" strategy are unpredictable, such that the principle of moderation must be taken into account when rewarding or punishing an inferior EPB. As far as the producer is concerned, policy compensation paid by the EPB department has a positive effect on easing conflicts, but the impact of administrative penalties exerted on the producer who violates EPR system behind the scenes is negative. The profit-making characteristic of producers makes the influence of EPR system acceptance cost uncertain, which also implies that a suitable policy system is beneficial to changing producers' natural resistance to the EPR system. Noteworthy, effects of all the three factors on producers are lagging behind. Last but not least, under the premise of different environmental regulations, the public's expectations of environmental protection play exactly the opposite role. This study provides detailed and enlightening suggestions to different countries for constructing a comprehensive EPR policy system. • Fill a gap in the current research that neglects the public supervisory role. • Incorporate the time factor into the framework of scenario evolution analysis of EPR system. • Identify main influencing factors of players' behaviors and their interaction mechanisms. • Provide a new insight about EPR system -- tripartite game perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental protection needs to be carried out under governmental regulations. Collection of pollutant discharge fees is an important tool for the government to regulate and control pollutant discharge of the enterprises. Based on the Chinese Industrial Enterprises Database , this study analyzes the relationship between the ownership of enterprises and the collection of pollutant discharge fees from the perspective of micro-enterprises. Results show that, compared with other types of enterprises (including collective enterprises, private enterprises and foreign enterprises), state-owned enterprises (SOEs) pay higher pollutant discharge fees, which takes a larger proportion of their revenue. In terms of the payment amount, compared with non-SOEs, SOEs defined by registration status pay about 40,000 CNY more in fees, which constitutes a 20% higher proportion of their revenue. This conclusion can also be applied to more competitive industries such as the food and beverage manufacturing industries and the textile and paper industry. This study is a useful complement to other studies of environmental regulation and differences in enterprise ownership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On Sep 26, 2015, an expressway tunnel through Chaoyang mountain of Qingdao China collapsed during construction. Fortunately, no victims were identified in this disaster. In order to ensure construction safety and realize the purpose of environmental protection and clean production, this paper investigated the collapse factors of the shallow tunnel by simulation and field measurement. In view of the key factors, a method combined with support and grouting was proposed to deal with the tunnel collapse accident. It shows that the main factors affecting the stability of the surrounding rock are excavation cycles, excavation section width, interval time from excavation to support, concrete strength and arch spacing. The numerical simulation results show that the tunnel with side-wall-support is more stable than that without side-wall-support to surrounding rock deformation, and the support is the key factor. After using this method, the percentage decrease of the settlement rate is 86.18%, and the percentage decrease of the convergence rate is 87.35%. This method is an effective method maintaining the stability of surrounding rock above the tunnel. Image 1 • An analysis model of influencing factors of tunnel stability is established. • The causes of tunnel collapse are analyzed by grey correlation analysis for the first time. • Tunnel with side-wall-support has better resistance to deformation than that without support. • This treatment method can effectively strengthen the surrounding rock above the tunnel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to global warming and energy conservation, the importance of forests should be seriously considered. Forest could not only produce bioenergy by harvest to substitute fossil fuels, but also sequestrate carbon dioxide from the air without harvest. How to measure the trade-off between forests as bioenergy production and carbon sinks is the aim of this paper. The forest management for the trade-offs is modelled theoretically based on two perspectives of carbon reductions and benefits. The magnitude of trade-offs is calculated considering carbon reduction, ecological benefit, and economic benefit by empirical analysis based on the forestry database of 180 countries. The empirical results reveal that the magnitude of trade-offs is lowest in Iran both between carbon sinks and carbon flow from the perspective of carbon reductions and that between economic benefit and ecological benefit based on forest income. It implied the coordinated development of wood fuel and carbon sinks in Iran's forest management. Meanwhile, the magnitude of trade-offs is highest in Ecuador between carbon sinks and carbon flow, and it is highest in Tongo between economic benefit and ecological benefit. It showed that forest management should be improved. Furthermore, energy and environment policy implications could be proposed based on forest management. Effective forest management should be considered to help fully realize energy conservation and environment protection. Image 1 • The trade-off is explored which forest is as bioenergy production or carbon sink. • Trade-offs are modelled theoretically based on carbon reductions and benefits. • The magnitudes of trade-offs in 180 countries are compared. • Energy and environment policy implications could be proposed by forest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the data of BP Statistical Review of World Energy, KOF Globalization Index, and the World Development Indicators, this paper explores the impact of technological innovation on CO 2 emissions in a panel of 96 countries over the period 1996–2018 with spatial econometric models. First, both CO 2 emissions and R&D intensity show significant spatial correlation across countries, and thus spatial econometric models are more suitable for research. Second, technological innovation has no significant mitigation effect on CO 2 emissions globally. However, group-based studies show that technological innovation in high-income, high-technology, and high-CO 2 emission countries can significantly reduce CO 2 emissions in neighboring countries, while R&D intensity in other countries even increase CO 2 emissions. Third, the higher the level of globalization is in a country, the more obvious the effect technological innovation has on reducing CO 2 emissions. Among them, the moderating effect of political globalization is the most obvious and even low-income, low-technology, and low-CO 2 emission countries can benefit from it; the "pollution haven" in economic globalization and the guidance of environmental protection awareness in social globalization deserve more attention. Therefore, countries should pay attention to the spillover effects of technological innovation, improve the corresponding level of globalization according to their own characteristics, and ultimately enhance environmental quality through international cooperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantitative analysis of the spatiotemporal changes in China's industrial wastewater and the hidden driving factors can provide important information for the overall process management of industrial wastewater. Taking China's 31 provincial-level administrative regions as research objects, this paper employed spatial econometric (OLS) model and geographically weighted regression (GWR) model to evaluate the spatial spillover effects and identify the drive forces of wastewater discharge between provinces during 2004–2015 period. The results show that industrial wastewater discharge at the national level showed a trend of first increasing to 24.7 billion tons in 2007 and then decreasing to 19.9 billion tons in 2015. There was a significant positive spatial autocorrelation of industrial wastewater discharge among China's provinces and the emission hotspots were mainly concentrated in central-western China. Moreover, the nationalization level of industry, industrial structure and environmental protection measures were found to be major driving forces of the spatial changes of industrial wastewater discharge. Our findings indicated that strengthening industrial nationalization as well as encouraging cooperation between neighboring provinces may help to reduce the industrial wastewater discharge, which can pave the way for other developing countries that face similar water pollution problems. • Spatial econometric (OLS) model and GWR model were employed to trace drivers of industrial wastewater discharge. • The industrial wastewater discharge showed a downward trend in China from 2004 to 2015. • There was a significant positive spatial autocorrelation of industrial wastewater discharge among China's provinces. • The nationalization level of industry, industrial structure and environmental protection measures were major driving forces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green innovation is the main force to drive China's intensive pollution industries (IPIs) into sustainable development. Improving green innovation efficiency (GIE) is an effective way to reach this goal. The correct approach to measuring IPIs' GIE and its influencing factors is a hot issue. Based on the panel data of China's 21 subdivided industries of IPIs over the period from 2011 to 2015, this paper applies the Super-Slack-Based Measurement (Super-SBM) and Tobit model to analyse IPIs' GIE and its influencing factors, respectively. The results show that IPIs' overall efficiency fluctuates around 0.67 in the first 4 years and increases to 0.776 in 2015, failing to be DEA-efficient; there are obvious gaps in GIE between the 21 industries, and the ferrous metal smelting and calendering industry has the weakest GIE. The regression results show that, government R&D support and environmental regulation have inverted U-shaped and U-shaped relationship with IPIs' GIE, respectively. Foreign market demand and market competition have significant positive and negative impacts on GIE, respectively, but the impact of market openness is not significant. The results suggest that (1) Chinese government should increase R&D support for IPIs, especially for those with low GIE, and strengthen supervision of the use of government R&D funds to avoid the crowding-out effect, (2) strengthen the intensity of environmental supervision and enforcement of environmental regulation policies, (3) improve environmental protection standards and preferential policies for exportation at the same time, (4) promote industrial restructuring and improve the mechanism of resource and benefit sharing to promote the flow of innovative resources and diffusion of innovative achievements. • Supplementing the evaluation indexes of GIE to reflect the requirements of recycling, low-carbon development, cleanness. • The GIE of IPIs has been improved from 0.67 to 0.776 during 2011–2015, but still fail to be DEA-efficient. • GIE of different industries varies greatly, and the ferrous metal smelting and calendaring industry's GIE is the weakest. • Government R&D support and environmental regulation have inverted U–shaped and U-shaped relationship with GIE, respectively. • Foreign market demand and market competition have significant positive and negative impacts on GIE, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental stresses with remarkable economic growths in China entail a transformation of development from the traditional path to a coordinated and sustainable one. Based on the connotation of development, this paper constructs a combined model of economic-social-environmental system, coupling with the entropy weight method, to measure the coordinated development of a combined system ESE as well as the subsystems. Via the data of economic growth, social construction and environmental protection in Jiangsu from 2002 to 2017, this study analyzes the current situations and problems faced by Jiangsu, so as to achieve a comprehensive development. Main results show that all the four kinds of coordinated degrees present an upward trend, where the economic-social coordination rises fast, the volatility is insignificant and the gap between different cities is not obvious. The time-variation and space-distribution characteristics of the economy-environment, society-environment and overall development coordination are basically similar. The reason for such fluctuations is the changes in the macroeconomic environment, which have led to an unordered variation in economic development, and the level of social development is mainly affected by the availability of social public service facilities. The fluctuations in environmental systems are mainly due to changes in water resources and sewage discharges, which are also the main factors affecting the overall development coordination level. Therefore, to further promote the sustainable development and optimize the spatial layout in Jiangsu, it is necessary to eliminate such problems as imperfect public construction and insufficient environmental protection and accelerate the economic transformation and upgrading. • Combining composite system model with entropy weight to measure the coordination of economic-social-environmental system. • Coordination degrees mainly present an upward trend. • Fluctuations mainly caused by environmental aspects. • Employing explosive spatial data analysis to describe the distribution characteristic. • The gap between cities has narrowed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental regulation has played an important role in energy conservation and emissions reduction. In the context of a worsening environment, the Chinese government has realized the disadvantages of extensive development and has launched a full range of actions for energy-intensive and heavy-polluting industrial sectors, which are called "low-hanging fruits." However, this principle has challenges, such as bottlenecks in emissions reduction and development restrictions in certain sectors. To solve these problems, this paper divides 37 industries into heavy-, middle-, and low-polluting industrial sectors according to a pollution intensive index. Subsequently, three types of environmental regulation measurements (mandatory control environmental regulation, market incentive environmental regulation, and voluntary compliance environmental regulation) are applied to verify the heterogeneous effects of environmental regulations on the green total factor productivity. In this study, super-epsilon-based measure model and global Malmquist-Luenberger index are used to calculate the green total factor productivity of these industries. Thus, a better understanding of environmental regulations in regards to polluting industrial sectors is provided. The results show that different types of environmental regulations exhibit heterogeneous effects on the green total factor productivities of different polluting industrial sectors. The relationship between the mandatory control environmental regulation/market incentive environmental regulation and the green total factor productivity for heavy-polluting industries is shown to be an inverse U shape that crosses an inflection point, indicating that the environmental regulation intensity of heavy-polluting industry is sufficient, perhaps even excessive. Notably, the relationship between the three environmental regulations and the middle-polluting industries all present a U shape, and the environmental regulation intensities are far away from the inflection point. In that regard, excessive regulation may lead to high operating costs and may burden low-polluting industrial sectors. In such cases, strengthening the environmental regulations for middle-polluting industries should be an efficient and reasonable way to achieve a win-win direction for both environmental protection and economic development. • "Low-hanging fruits" strategy that can get good results in short time has come to its dilemma. • Different environment regulations exhibit heterogeneous effects in different industries' GTFP. • A more reasonable combination of environmental regulations is proposed. • The middle polluting industrial sectors need more attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high-quality development of the environmental protection industry (EPI) requires the support of the corresponding industrial policy system. Taking the input-output efficiency of China's environmental protection enterprises (EPE) as the starting point, this paper conducts a micro-empirical analysis (including random frontier calculation, structural feature combing, and driving mechanism analysis) on the effects of and structural differences in different policy support measures such as taxation, subsidies, and credit. The study finds that first, there are significant ownership and regional differences in the technical efficiency (TE) of Chinese EPE, and the TE level of state-owned and central and western EPE is relatively low. Second, tax relief measures have significant efficiency enhancement effects, especially for non-state-owned enterprises. Third, government subsidies for non-state-owned enterprises and credit support for the central and western regions can produce efficiency improvements. Therefore, constructing a structured policy support system is an important measure to improve the high-quality development of China's EPI. • From the input-output perspective, the TE of EPE has ownership differences and regional heterogeneity. • The effects of different policy support methods are significantly different. • Tax reductions and government subsidies for non-state-owned enterprises have the effect of improving efficiency. • Credit support for the central and western regions can produce efficiency improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantities of waste solar cells have been produced due to their widespread sustainable energy applications. Due to the complicated composition of waste solar cells, the disposal of waste solar cells has been the hot spot of sustainable development and environmental protection research. To our knowledge, little information has been reported about the disposal of waste solar cells. For the safe disposal of waste solar cells, and to produce economic benefits, the present study applied the density functional theory to design the transformation pathways of organics in waste solar cells. The ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer and polyethylene terephthalate of waste solar cells were transformed to 3,6,8,8-tetramethyl-2,3,4,7,8,8a-hexahydro-1H-3a,7-methanoazulene (cedrene). It is the precursor of precious wound-healing medicine. The transformation pathways exhibited a total energy barrier of 58.79 kcal/mol, and thermodynamic calculations indicated the temperature required for breaking this energy barrier was 777.50 K. 3,6,8,8-Tetramethyl-2,3,4,7,8,8a-hexahydro-1H-3a,7-methanoazulene was produced by vacuum heating at a temperature of 778.15 K, and the material had the most substantial proportion that accounted for 19.85 wt% in the products of vacuum heating. This paper provides insight into preparing the raw materials of medicine from the nonmetallic material of waste solar cells. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]