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Energy saving is an important measure to promote social green transformation. The traditional energy-saving ideas usually only focus on a specific loss, and seldom consider the possible relationship and influence among various losses. In relatively complex energy-using systems, there are often many kinds of losses, and each loss may have many influencing factors. There may be some relationship between these losses and the influencing factors. To solve this problem, this paper presents an analysis method of the variable association in multi-variable systems. First, the basic relationships between variables and the representation methods are discussed. The basic concept of a path between variables is given, and the analysis method of variable association based on path statistics is provided. This paper focuses on the analysis of the influencing factors and paths of the observed variables, as well as which observed variables will be affected by a control variable. Then, based on the correlation matrix, the quantitative analysis method of the influence between variables is given. Variable correlation analysis is innovatively applied in the field of energy saving to determine the correlation of losses through variable associations, guiding the preliminary screening of energy-saving measures and analyzing the collateral effects of these measures. Based on the correlations between energy losses, a scientific process for formulating energy-saving measures is proposed. The variable correlation analysis method proposed in this paper is a generalized method, which can judge the correlation between variables from the perspective of theoretical analysis and avoid the dependence on data. In addition to good applications in the field of energy conservation, it can also be widely used in construction, transportation, climate change, and other fields. The proposed energy-saving ideas take into account the intensity of influencing factors on loss and the correlation between loss, which improves the effectiveness of energy saving measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accelerating the transition to a cleaner global energy system is essential for tackling the climate crisis, and green hydrogen energy systems hold significant promise for integrating renewable energy sources. This paper offers a thorough evaluation of green hydrogen's potential as a groundbreaking alternative to achieve near-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within a renewable energy framework. The paper explores current technological options and assesses the industry's present status alongside future challenges. It also includes an economic analysis to gauge the feasibility of integrating green hydrogen, providing a critical review of the current and future expectations for the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH). Depending on the geographic location and the technology employed, the LCOH for green hydrogen can range from as low as EUR 1.12/kg to as high as EUR 16.06/kg. Nonetheless, the findings suggest that green hydrogen could play a crucial role in reducing GHG emissions, particularly in hard-to-decarbonize sectors. A target LCOH of approximately EUR 1/kg by 2050 seems attainable, in some geographies. However, there are still significant hurdles to overcome before green hydrogen can become a cost-competitive alternative. Key challenges include the need for further technological advancements and the establishment of hydrogen policies to achieve cost reductions in electrolyzers, which are vital for green hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As global climate change intensifies, nations around the world are implementing policies aimed at reducing emissions, with carbon-trading mechanisms emerging as a key market-based tool. China has launched carbon-trading markets in several cities, achieving significant trading volumes. Carbon-trading mechanisms encompass cap-and-trade markets and voluntary markets, influenced by various factors, including policy changes, economic conditions, energy prices, and climate fluctuations. The complexity of these factors, coupled with the nonlinear and non-stationary nature of carbon prices, makes forecasting a substantial challenge. This paper proposes a dynamic weight hybrid forecasting model based on a dual sliding window approach, effectively integrating multiple forecasting models such as LSTM, Random Forests, and LASSO. This model facilitates a thorough analysis of the influences of policy, market dynamics, technological advancements, and climatic conditions on carbon pricing. It serves as a potent tool for predicting carbon market price fluctuations and offers valuable decision support to stakeholders in the carbon market, ultimately aiding in the global efforts towards emission reduction and achieving sustainable development goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a methodology to forecast electrical demand for the Chilean Electrical Power System considering a national, regional, district and bus spatial disaggregation. The methodology developed was based on different kinds of econometric models and end-use models to represent the massification of low carbon emission technologies such as electromobility, electric heating, electric water heating, and distributed generation. In addition, the methodology developed allows for the projection of the electric demand considering different kinds of clients as regulated and non-regulated clients, and different economic sectors. The model was applied to forecast the long-term electricity demand in Chile for the period 2022–2042 for 207 districts and 474 buses. The results include projections under the base case and low carbon scenarios, highlighting the significant influence of new technologies on future demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main problem confronting the world is human-caused climate change, which is intrinsically linked to the need for energy both now and in the future. Renewable (green) energy has been proposed as a future solution, and many renewable energy technologies have been developed for different purposes. However, progress toward net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and the role of renewable energy in 2050 are not well known. This paper reviews different renewable energy technologies developed by different researchers and their potential and challenges to date, and it derives lessons for world and especially African policymakers. According to recent research results, the mean global capabilities for solar, wind, biogas, geothermal, hydrogen, and ocean power are 325 W, 900 W, 300 W, 434 W, 150 W, and 2.75 MWh, respectively, and their capacities for generating electricity are 1.5 KWh, 1182.5 KWh, 1.7 KWh, 1.5 KWh, 1.55 KWh, and 3.6 MWh, respectively. Securing global energy leads to strong hope for meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as those for hunger, health, education, gender equality, climate change, and sustainable development. Therefore, renewable energy can be a considerable contributor to future fuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable development involves constant efforts to reduce pollution by using resources as efficiently as possible. One of the sources of pollution is waste from packaging, recovery, and of course, the possibility of recycling them. The research theme of this paper is the reverse logistics of plastic packaging, which allows the realization of the idea of circular economy and green logistics, which promotes the idea of sustainable development. The EU is strongly committed to issues related to the management of plastic packaging and waste to reduce environmental pollution and achieve circularity goals. Through this article, we aim to highlight the degree to which the EU member states are included in the plastic packaging recycling targets for the year 2030. To highlight the evolution trend for the recycling rate of plastic packaging, we used an advanced forecasting model that runs a series of variables in order to draw up a forecast as accurate as possible. After highlighting the recycling rates for plastic packaging at the level of the EU member states, we proceeded to outline some recommendations in order to encourage the EU member states to make the recycling process more efficient. The current study continues the series of studies dealing with the problem of recycling, but it covers a topic not addressed until this moment, namely the behavior of the citizen regarding the recycling activity seen through the prism of national culture. The current study aims to strengthen the specialized literature in this field and to offer innovative solutions that appeal to the respective national cultures regarding the availability of the populations of the EU member states to address the problem of recycling plastic packaging, not only from a legislative perspective but also from a cultural one. In conclusion, this study generates a model of approach to government policies regarding the recycling of plastic packaging considering the types of national cultures prevailing in the EU member countries, with this being possible by grouping the countries into culturally homogenous clusters. In this way, the environmental policies enunciated by governments can be adapted to convey the message in a more personal way, considering the cultural differences between the EU member states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban areas generate more than 70% of the world's climate change emissions, mainly CO2, produced by the combustion of fossil fuels. Climate change is increasing cities' exposure to climate hazards, such as heat waves or floods. Therefore, there is a need to improve risk management with the inclusion of climate resilience in urban policy design. Despite improved urban climate monitoring, there are still relatively few scientific publications on climate change adaptation in urban areas. Adaptation to climate change is not achieved through specific action, but rather through the adoption and continuous implementation of adaptation actions such as housing rehabilitation, green space management and protection measures for vulnerable groups. This variety of actions makes it difficult not only to identify different indicators, but also to use common benchmarks. Considering the role of municipalities in adapting to climate change, it is crucial to identify adaptation indicators that serve as a basis for decision making, as well as evaluation methods that allow the effectiveness of planned and implemented measures in municipalities. It can be used to determine which measures increase the level of adaptation or lead to poor adaptation. Therefore, monitoring indicators makes it possible to evaluate the effectiveness of the measures, in addition to formulating new ones. This paper includes a literature review of existing index designed to address climate hazards and mitigate their impacts in urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in global average temperature, mainly due to the high rate of greenhouse gas emissions, has triggered severe global warming and climate change. In Europe, the building sector accounts for a significant portion of emissions and energy consumption, prompting attention on nearly-zero-energy buildings (nZEBs) and zero-carbon buildings, as they play a pivotal role in reaching the goal of climate neutrality by 2050. Passive systems offer a promising solution, optimizing energy usage by better adapting buildings to their local climates. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art of passive heating and cooling techniques, exploring their contributions to contemporary architecture and showcasing their features and adaptability across different climates. Furthermore, the link between traditional and bioclimatic architecture is assessed. Recent years have witnessed a surge in publications on bioclimatic solar passive strategies, reflecting an intensified debate on climate change. Europe leads research in this area, aligned with initiatives like the Green Deal and Fit for 55. While dynamic simulation software is widely utilized for energy efficiency analysis, there remains limited integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and life cycle analysis (LCA) tools, which could enhance holistic assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrification of the transport sector has emerged as a game changer in addressing the issues of climate change caused by global warming. However, the unregulated expansion and simplistic approach to electric vehicle (EV) charging pose substantial risks to grid stability and efficiency. Intelligent charging techniques using Information and Communication Technology, known as smart charging, enable the transformation of the EV fleets from passive consumers to active participants within the grid ecosystem. This concept facilitates the EV fleet's contribution to various grid services, enhancing grid functionality and resilience. This paper investigates the optimal infrastructure design for a smart charging system within the Monash microgrid (Clayton campus). We introduce a centralized Grid-to-Vehicle (G2V) algorithm and formulate three optimization problems utilizing linear and least-squares programming methods. These problems address tariff structures between the main grid and microgrid, aiming to maximize aggregator profits or minimize load fluctuations while meeting EV users' charging needs. Additionally, our framework incorporates network-aware coordination via the Newton–Raphson method, leveraging EVs' charging flexibility to mitigate congestion and node voltage issues. We evaluate the G2V algorithm's performance under increasing EV user demand through simulation and analyze the net present value (NPV) over 15 years. The results highlight the effectiveness of our proposed framework in optimizing grid operation management. Moreover, our case study offers valuable insights into an efficient investment strategy for deploying the G2V system on campus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Offshore wind farms are great options for addressing the world's energy and climate change challenges, as well as meeting rising energy demand while taking environmental and economic impacts into account. Floating wind turbines, in specific, depict the next horizon in the sustainable renewable energy industry. In this study, a life-cycle cost analysis for floating offshore wind turbines is developed by combining the most recent data and parametric formulas from databases and relevant papers. The cost analysis models focused on cost minimization with special emphasis on Operation and Maintenance Cost (OPEX), Decommissioning Cost (DECOM), and Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), which are important factors in wind power economy. Given that floating wind energy is still developing, the presented scenarios should be beneficial in making future decisions. The cost analysis scenarios include on-site and off-site maintenance scenarios for OPEX. In addition, four alternative scenarios for DECOM have been examined: mechanical recycling, mechanical-incineration, incineration processes, and landfill. According to the findings of these scenarios, OPEX varies from 16.89 to 19.93 £/MWh and DECOM between 3.47 and 3.65 £/MWh, whilst the total LCOE varied from 50.67 to 66.73 £/MWh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy transition towards a local resilient energy supply is necessary for energy security. Climate change and the threat of economic collapse are reasons to force society to become less dependent on fossil fuel. Small-scale solutions are expected to be more sustainable, as large-scale integrated networks are featured by complexity and difficult-to-notice vulnerabilities, creating system risks. This paper presents the results of empirical research among a sample of Polish business students (N = 205) on the importance of worldviews for the choice of the energy transition scenario (local solutions vs. large-scale solutions). Worldviews are represented here by the Dominant Social Paradigm (defined for the purpose of this study as the belief that liberal democracy, free markets, and technological development are to solve all type of problems). This study addresses two research questions: (1) Is there a difference in preference for the energy transition scenarios? (2) Does adherence to the Dominant Social Paradigm determine the choice of the scenario for energy transition? The results present a preference for non-cooperative solutions (individual household solutions and large-scale solutions), while no significant relation to the worldviews represented by the Dominant Social Paradigm has been found. The results suggest that preferences for individual and large-scale solutions may be influenced more by institutional factors than by personal worldviews. A policy implication is that a change in the socio-political institutions and strengthening local governance may be a prerequisite for a sustainable energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainable implementation of resources and the transition to low-carbon construction is on the world's daily agenda. This paper describes the development of criteria for the efficient management of material resources in low-carbon construction. Net income, gross profit, balance sheets, and equity are proposed as indicators that serve as criteria for assessing the efficient use of resources. Nonlinear regression models were the methodological basis for the establishment of cause-and-effect relationships of the volume of construction of transport structures. It was established that since construction companies do not purchase materials for storage, the cost of materials for use in low-carbon technological construction work is directly proportional to the cost of construction. The volume of production in the construction industry is determined by construction costs. More efficient use of low-carbon materials reduces cost and construction waste. In this paper, we have established the relationship between the indicator of efficiency for the functioning of the construction enterprises in Ukraine and the use of low-carbon materials for the construction of transport structures. The practical value of the obtained results for low-carbon construction management lies in proving the relationship between the performance indicators of the construction enterprise (net profit, gross profit, output volume, balance sheets, and equity capital) and the use of low-carbon material resources. Our results form the basis for future research into the use of a cost-based model for low-carbon economy transition in municipalities and regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of geological formations, distinguished by natural porosity and permeability and protected by low-permeability caprock, has emerged as an effective strategy for carbon dioxide (CO2) storage. This method significantly contributes to mitigating anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions and addressing the challenges of climate change. Recent research has unveiled the potential of CO2 to enhance geothermal heat energy extraction in geothermal reservoirs by acting as a subsurface heat exchange fluid. This review paper explores the viability of CO2 in augmenting geothermal heat energy extraction, comparing it to conventional water-based geothermal systems. Special emphasis is placed on CO2 plume geothermal (CPG) systems, characterized by rapid deployment and long-term utilization of geothermal energy resources. With the overarching objective of establishing net-zero energy communities, the analysis of such systems offers a comprehensive understanding of their features, providing a fresh perspective on extracted energy within the context of energy supply in integrated, sustainable energy in built systems. Notably, these systems demonstrate efficacy in meeting the power requirements of an energy community, spanning both distinct heating and electricity needs. However, the key challenge lies in selecting suitable locations. This scientific review aims to comprehend the characteristics of CPG under specific temperature and pressure conditions while optimizing subsurface permeability. This insight is pivotal for identifying future locations for CPG operations with the intent of powering small energy communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural gas is considered a transitional energy source in the transition to clean energy owing to its clean, efficient, and ecologically beneficial properties. The trade of liquefied natural gas (LNG) serves as the backbone of the global natural gas trade and significantly influences the dynamics of the global energy trade system. This paper constructs long-term global LNG trade networks, and explores the spatiotemporal evolution and topological structures of the international LNG trade by utilizing multilevel network analysis methods, to provide insights for comprehensively understanding the market dynamics of the global LNG trade system. The findings indicate the following: (1) The global LNG trade volume shows an overall upward trend, and the global LNG trade network exhibits uneven spatial distribution, clear hierarchical differentiation, and an increasingly complicated structure. Global LNG trade is gradually changing from regionalization to globalization, and the international LNG market is undergoing structural reshaping. (2) The global LNG trade network continues to expand in size and density, and the rapidly growing LNG supply and trade relations are driving the formation of the global natural gas market. (3) Global LNG trade is still in a phase of rapid change, with the global efficiency of the network increasing and then decreasing. The trade network has traditionally been centered on ten countries, including Japan, South Korea, the United States, and Qatar. (4) The global LNG trade network exhibits clear core-periphery structures with considerable polarization effects, and the trade network structure is continuously evolving and is growing unbalanced. Finally, we put forward relevant policy suggestions to promote global LNG trade interconnectivity and enhance environmental protection and respond to global climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecuador is a country with several climate zones. However, their behaviour is similar throughout the year, with no peaks of extreme temperatures in the various seasons. This paper is a first approach to study the adaptive comfort behaviour in several areas and populations of the country. Considering the ASHRAE 55-2020 model, energy simulation programmes are applied not just to the current climate scenario but also to the climate change scenarios of 2050 and 2100. The results of locations are analysed and compared to determine their performance. Thanks to their climate characteristics, adaptive comfort models could be applied as a passive strategy, using natural ventilation for building indoor comfort improvement, particularly social dwellings. According to previous studies, some prototypes have not considered the climate determinants in each region. Given the geographic situation of the study areas, the adaptive comfort model could be applied in all cases. Percentages of application of natural ventilation and heating and cooling degree hours have similar behaviours according to the climatic region, with a variation greater than 30% among them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive study explores the influence of aerosols and clouds on solar radiation in the urban environments of nine of Greece's largest cities over the decade from 2014 to 2023. Utilizing a combination of Earth Observation data, radiative transfer models, and geographic information systems, the research undertook digital surface modeling and photovoltaic simulations. The study meticulously calculated the optimal rooftop areas for photovoltaic installation in these cities, contributing significantly to their energy adequacy and achieving a balance between daily electricity production and demand. Moreover, the research provides an in-depth analysis of energy and economic losses, while also highlighting the environmental benefits. These include a reduction in pollutant emissions and a decrease in the carbon footprint, aligning with the global shift towards local energy security and the transformation of urban areas into green, smart cities. The innovative methodology of this study, which leverages open access data, sets a strong foundation for future research in this field. It opens up possibilities for similar studies and has the potential to contribute to the creation of an updated, comprehensive solar potential map for continental Greece. This could be instrumental in climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies, thereby promoting sustainable urban development and environmental preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change poses an unprecedented global challenge, which prompts nations to adopt new strategies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. The European Union emissions trading system (EU ETS) is a cornerstone of the EU's efforts towards a cost-effective fight against climate change. This study examines the effectiveness of the EU ETS by analyzing monthly data from December 2008 to December 2021, with the focus on CO2 emission allowance futures prices, renewable energy indices, coal prices, oil prices, and fossil energy indices. The key findings are as follows: The CO2 emission allowance futures prices have averaged EUR 14.83 per ton, ranging from EUR 2.87 to EUR 76.81, which shows a significant upward trend. The renewable energy index also demonstrated strong growth, with a mean 1562.07 and maximum 4571.96. Coal prices have averaged EUR 65.32 per ton, while Brent oil prices averaged EUR 59.85 per barrel. A cointegration analysis revealed a long-run equilibrium relationship between these variables. The Vector Error Correction model (VECM) revealed significant negative responses to long-run equilibrium deviations of the renewable energy index (−0.0155) and oil prices (−0.0236), a significant negative short-run response of CO2 prices to their own lagged values (−0.223), and a significant positive short-run effect of oil prices on the fossil energy index (0.254). These results suggest the EU ETS has created significant linkages between carbon, energy, and financial markets. The study concludes that while the EU ETS has made progress in motivating emissions reductions and promoting renewable energy, the system's efficacy still needs improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are millions of older buildings in the colder climate regions of the world where envelope upgrades are needed to improve the indoor quality of buildings, reduce energy costs, and lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study assessed the global warming potential (GWP) with and without accounting for CO2 uptake in trees (biogenic carbon) for 20- and 100-year timespans of an exterior insulation panel. The panels consisted of six different materials with three-ply cross-laminated timber (CLT) as its main component. The net GWP100-Uptake impact when explicitly accounting for biogenic CO2 uptake over a 100-year time period was 7.2 kgCO2-eq/m2 which was 92.7% lower than if it was not included (GWP100-Fossil of 98.7 kgCO2-eq/m2). Using a 20-year GWP increased the impact of the GWP fossil by 21.7% and the CO2 uptake scenario by 298%. The major contributor was the energy used for manufacturing panel's materials (53%), with embodied carbon in bio-products primarily responsible for offsetting emissions. The findings will be helpful for policymakers in setting net-zero carbon emission goals for embodied and operational impacts of building materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sharing economy substitutes owning with accessing, promoting sustainable development by reducing excessive consumption and resource overuse, which harm the environment. Sharing reduces resource and energy use, lowering emissions and waste disposal costs, thus reducing environmental damage. This study identifies key factors that encourage Generation Z to embrace the sharing economy for goods and services, emphasizing its role in sustainable development. Conducted in May 2023, the study surveyed 442 Polish Generation Z individuals to examine their attitudes and behaviours regarding climate change. The research focused on this demographic due to their crucial role in addressing global issues. Data was collected using the CAWI method and analyzed with IBM SPSS and AMOS software through structural equation modelling (SEM). The analysis revealed three factors: Willingness to Share for Savings (WSS), Digital Customer Engagement (DCE), and Environmental Concern (EC). The results show that ecological concerns and digital engagement significantly influence people's willingness to share, boosting environmental awareness and cost-saving behaviours. Generation Z's sharing propensity and environmental consciousness are significantly shaped by digital engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this article is to assess the carbon footprint across the Continuous Deep Mixing Method (CDMM) life cycle, considering its implementation in the context of sustainable, zero-emission, and decarbonising construction. Amidst global climate change challenges of greenhouse gas emissions in the construction sector, the CDMM emerges as a potentially effective solution to mitigate environmental impact. This study aims to address the gap in the existing scientific literature by evaluating the environmental aspects of CDMM application, with a focus on identifying primary emission sources. This research extends beyond the conventional focus on construction materials to include energy consumption from equipment and transportation, offering a holistic view of the technology's environmental impact. This analysis identified cement as the major greenhouse gas emission source for the CDMM, underscoring the technology's potential as an alternative to traditional geotechnical methods, in line with integrated design solutions and meeting growing social expectations for sustainability. The added value of this study comes from data derived from an actual project, enabling a realistic assessment of CDMM's environmental impact and resource and energy efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to provide empirical evidence on whether using renewable and non-renewable energy, CO2 emissions, and the resulting changes in temperature and precipitation can alter cereal yields in European Union countries. To this end, a panel data set covering 1992–2021 has been used to analyse the impact of climate change and economic factors on cereal production in European Union countries. The study employed various analytical techniques to better understand the impact of climate change and economic factors on cereal crop yields. These included using annual average temperature and rainfall to measure climate change, energy consumption, and economic growth to analyse the economic aspects. To achieve the objective, feasible generalised least squares (FGLS) models with robust standard errors and bootstrap and a quantile regression (QR) model with marginal analysis were employed. The Westerlund cointegration test confirmed the presence of cointegration between cereal production and climate variables, economic growth, and energy consumption. The results indicate that increases in temperature and precipitation may contribute to increased cereal production in European Union countries. In contrast, energy consumption, including renewable energy and CO2 emissions, may have a nonlinear effect on cereal production. Quantile regression analysis suggests climate change may impact crop yields most in countries with low and moderate cereal production per hectare. Increased CO2 emissions may increase yields in the initial period, but excessive CO2 may negatively impact cereal production in the long term. It would be advisable for countries with low and moderate crop productivity to consider implementing technological advances and combating global warming by modernising cultivation methods and making greater use of renewable energy sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the multidimensional problem of energy poverty, focusing on its connections to climate change and its manifestation at rural and urban scales across selected European countries and Israel. The study examined 31 locations in eight countries with diverse geographical and economic backgrounds: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Greece, North Macedonia, The Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Slovakia, and Israel. The article aims to understand how winter energy vulnerability in rural and urban locations in these countries could be identified using selected energy poverty indicators and how it evolves under the influence of climate change. A set of sociodemographic, infrastructural, and economic variables, combined with climate analysis, were selected and assessed for their impact on energy poverty. We found that energy poverty in most countries depends significantly on location and regional development. Due to a combination of factors influencing energy poverty, rural households tend to be more vulnerable. Furthermore, climate change consequences will likely leave rural areas more likely to experience energy poverty in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology has emerged as a pivotal measure in mitigating global climate change. Notably, CO2-EOR is esteemed for its dual function of sequestering CO2 and enhancing oil recovery. However, this process presents challenges related to asphaltene deposition during CO2 flooding, leading to reservoir damage, such as pore plugging. This study systematically manipulated the factors inducing CO2-induced asphaltene deposition, elucidating the mechanisms and magnitudes of asphaltene precipitation. Additionally, the study investigated the efficacy of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) in mitigating asphaltene deposition. Experimental findings indicated a positive correlation between asphaltene deposition and level of asphaltene content, CO2 injection ratio, and temperature. Moreover, with an increase in experimental pressure, the asphaltene deposition rate demonstrated an initial increase followed by a subsequent decline. Leveraging their favorable compatibility with asphaltene, CQDs effectively suppressed the aggregation behavior of asphaltene. In the presence of CQDs, the onset of asphaltene precipitation was delayed from 45 V% to 55 V%, with the highest inhibition rate reaching approximately 36% at an optimal CQD concentration of 20 mg/L. This study proposes a novel approach to address asphaltene deposition issues in CO2-EOR processes, contributing to the enhancement of recovery rates in low-permeability reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving the target of carbon neutrality has been an important approach for China to mitigate global climate change. Enterprises are major carbon emitters, and a well-designed early warning system is needed to ensure that their emissions align with carbon neutrality goals. Therefore, this study utilized electricity big data to construct an early warning model for enterprise carbon emissions based on carbon quota allocation. Taking key carbon-emitting enterprises in Guangxi as a case study, we aim to provide insights to support China's dual carbon goals. Firstly, we established the Carbon Quota Allocation System, enabling carbon quota allocation at the enterprise levels. Secondly, we developed the Enterprise Carbon Neutrality Index, facilitating dynamic warnings for carbon emissions among enterprises. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) In 2020, Guangdong received the highest carbon quota of 606 million tons, representing 5.72% of the national total, while Guangxi only received 2.63 billion tons. (2) Only 39.34% of enterprises in Guangxi are able to meet the carbon neutrality target, indicating significant emission reduction pressure faced by enterprises in the region. (3) Over 90% of enterprises in Guangxi receive Commendation and Encouragement warning levels, suggesting that enterprises in Guangxi are demonstrating a promising trend in emission reduction efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite efforts to mitigate climate change, annual greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, which may lead to the global warming of our planet. Buildings' thermal energy needs are inherently linked to climate conditions. Consequently, it is crucial to evaluate how climate change affects these energy demands. Despite extensive analysis, a comprehensive assessment involving a diverse range of building types has not been consistently conducted. The primary objective of this research is to perform a coherent evaluation of the influence of climate changes, construction element properties, and the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system type of control on the energy requirements of six buildings (residential, services, and commercial). The buildings are considered to be located in a temperate Mediterranean climate. Our focus is on the year 2070, considering three distinct climatic scenarios: (i) maintaining the current climate without further changes, (ii) moderate climate changes, and (iii) extreme climate changes. The buildings are distributed across three different locations, each characterized by unique climatic conditions. Buildings' envelope features a traditional External Thermal Insulation Composite System (ETICS) and expanded polystyrene (EPS) serves as thermal insulation material. Two critical design factors are explored: EPS thickness ranging from 0 (no insulation) to 12 cm; and horizontal external fixed shading elements varying lengths from 0 (absence) to 150 cm. Six alternative setpoint ranges are assessed for the HVAC system control: three based on the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) and three based on indoor air temperature (Tair). Results were obtained with a validated in-home software tool. They show that, even under extreme climate conditions, the application of thermal insulation remains energetically favorable; however, its relative importance diminishes as climate severity increases. Then, proper insulation design remains important for energy efficiency. The use of external shading elements for glazing (e.g., overhangs, louvers) proves beneficial in specific cases. As climate changes intensify, the significance of shading elements grows. Thus, strategic placement and design are necessary for good results. The HVAC system's energy consumption depends on the level of thermal comfort requirements, on the climate characteristics, and on the building's type of use. As climate change severity intensifies, energy demands for cooling increase, whereas energy needs for heating decrease. However, it is essential to recognize that the impact of climate changes on HVAC system energy consumption significantly depends on the type of building. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of green technology in the world is progressing extremely rapidly. New possibilities for obtaining energy from renewable sources are constantly being sought and existing solutions are being improved. The multifaceted potential of the seas and oceans is an important aspect being taken into account in the development of the energy systems of a number of economies. One dimension of action in this area is the orientation towards offshore wind energy and the construction of offshore wind farms for this purpose. The purpose of this article is to analyse the importance of offshore wind farms in Poland's energy system and to assess public perception of the changes taking place in this dimension. The article is based on research and critical analysis of the available literature, legal regulations and industry reports, as well as on the results of our own surveys, the scientific findings of which were developed with the application of statistical instruments using PQstat software, ensuring the expected quality of results. The findings of the article indicate the significant importance of offshore wind farms in the creation of Poland's energy mix, with differing public attitudes towards their construction. Furthermore, the results of the research indicate a differentiated attitude of society towards the construction of offshore wind farms. The main motivation for majority support of the measure in question are economic reasons, which are connected with the expectation of a real price reduction per 1 kW of energy, as well as increased attractiveness of the region due to investments in this area. The main concern with the measure relates to environmental aspects, with concerns about the functioning of ecosystems in light of the construction and subsequent operation of wind farms. Negative public opinion is also signalled in relation to the potential risk of landscape change in a direction that is undesirable for the studied developed coastal tourist region in Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass gasification, a promising sustainable technology for decentralized electricity production, has the potential to displace fossil fuels while valorizing locally produced waste. Previous studies indicate that its technical and financial viabilities vary among projects, and few projects have been successfully developed, despite the sustainability benefits. This study identified and characterized the factors that influence the economic and environmental performances of such projects using a novel, hybrid method, with qualitative analysis using the Business Model Canvas and quantitative life-cycle costs (LCCs) considering the financial and external costs. The financial LCCs and external electricity generation costs were evaluated for business models in agro-industrial factories using proprietary residual biomasses and for those in isolated grids using local agricultural waste. The business models used for biomass gasification projects affect their LCCs and externalities more than factors such as their investment costs and energy efficiencies. The relationship between the business models, the financial performances of the projects, and their impacts on society are highlighted, showing that although projects using proprietary biomass waste have lower financial costs, off-grid projects generate more positive externalities, resulting in lower costs for society. These results indicate that policy support focused on appropriate business models may contribute to optimizing the use of financial incentives to foster investment in new sustainable technologies, contributing to the energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The greenhouse effect formed by the massive emission of carbon dioxide has caused serious harm to the Earth's environment, in which the power sector constitutes one of the primary contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing carbon emissions from electricity plays a pivotal role in minimizing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the ecological, economic, and social impacts of climate change, while carbon emission prediction provides a valuable point of reference for the formulation of policies to reduce carbon emissions from electricity. The article provides a detailed review of research results on deep learning-based carbon emission prediction. Firstly, the main neural networks applied in the domain of carbon emission forecasting at home and abroad, as well as the models combining other methods and neural networks, are introduced, and the main roles of different methods, when combined with neural networks, are discussed. Secondly, neural networks were used to predict electricity carbon emissions, and the performance of different models on carbon emissions was compared. Finally, the application of neural networks in the realm of the prediction of carbon emissions is summarized, and future research directions are discussed. The article provides a reference for researchers to understand the research dynamics and development trend of deep learning in the realm of electricity carbon emission forecasting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global steel industry is rapidly transitioning towards energy decarbonization to address the climate crisis. Sintering is one of the main sources of greenhouse gas emissions from steel mills. Traditional sintering processes use straight inclined chutes to feed raw materials into the sinter machine. However, this design suffers from insufficient horizontal momentum, resulting in poor segregation of the layered materials. This study proposes an improved charging chute design profile that uses a cycloid curve and rolls to enhance segregation, thus reducing coal consumption and increasing productivity. To achieve this, we first modeled a charging chute using the cycloid curve. Secondly, building upon the cycloid concept, we created a roll-type chute by strategically placing rollers along the cycloid trajectory. Finally, the cycloid roll-type charging chute, integrating the cycloid trajectory with the roll-shaped charging chute, was simulated. Pilot tests comparing the cycloid roll-type and straight chute models demonstrated a significant increase in dispersion for the cycloid roll-type design, with a 65% improvement in the Strand-ward segregation (Sw) index compared to the straight chute. Furthermore, actual filed implementation in a sintering process achieved a 2.9% increase in operational productivity and a 6% reduction in fuel consumption. This study is significant not only for proposing an optimal chute design, but also for successfully implementing it in a full-scale steel mill, contributing to a reduction in fuel consumption and carbon reduction in steel mills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continued and envisioned large-scale integration of renewable energy sources as a reaction to rising global temperatures and climate change will need a readily available DC grid to increase commissioning and operating efficiency. The effective operation of these grids is predicated on the correct control of its main control points. A plethora of DC-DC converters that find use in DC microgrids act as the main control points. DC-DC converters are non-linear and can operate in different modes with completely unique characteristics. To utilise classical control techniques, laborious equivalent linear models are derived for DC-DC converters using averaging modelling schemes. The application and limitations of these modelling techniques are well captured in the available literature. The most common limitation of the available modelling schemes is that more focus is dedicated to converter attributes like order, functionality and operating mode, even when optimal power flow and voltage regulation within the DC network are of more interest. Structure-based modelling techniques like the use of basic building blocks nullify converter attributes in the modelling process which translates to modelling efficiency. In light of the merits seen with the use of basic building blocks when modelling converters in CCM, the current study extends these merits to converters operation in DCM. Similar to modelling converters in CCM, modelling techniques that are available in the literature continue to consider converter attributes in the modelling process for DCM operation. Moreover, the two modes of operation are treated as unique entities and often modelled in a non-unified manner, which compromise modelling efficiency since the same converter can operate in a different state solely based on loading. The aim is to increase modelling efficiency but also nullify operating mode in the modelling process. The same basic building blocks are now modelled as two-port networks for DCM operation and adopted based on the exact configuration of a specified converter to compute its steady-state and dynamic models. All the advantages seen when modelling converters in CCM using basic building blocks are retained and augmented when considering DCM operation. Thus, any converter with well-defined basic building blocks can be easily modelled solely based on the connection of constituent basic building blocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the technologies for the recovery of energy from waste, in particular residual municipal solid waste (rMSW), combustion is the most widely used thermo-chemical treatment process associated with thermal and electric power production by a steam cycle, named, shortly, Waste to Energy (WtE). Today, more than 500 WtE plants in the EU, about 400 in China and 76 in the USA are in operation, based on efficient technologies and advanced air pollution control systems. Energy recovery can be accomplished also by means of gasification; however, the presence of impurities together with the atmospheric pressure, at which syngas is normally produced, impose the feeding of syngas to a conventional steam cycle, leading to generally lower performances than WtE. The energy recovered by WtE offsets traditional energy sources such as fossil fuels and related emissions, providing savings in term of climate change. However, the savings obtainable by replacing electricity and/or heat will diminish as the energy systems will hopefully become increasingly renewable. Over this medium–long-term horizon, one possibility is to capture the CO2 from WtE flue gases and to store/use it. From the life cycle assessment perspective, it has been calculated that the introduction of CO2 capture and storage in WtE, despite energy penalties, is able to reduce the impact on climate change. The alternative approach, proposed to contain the emissions of greenhouse gases in the thermal treatment of waste, is using the carbon contained in it to produce commonly used chemical compounds (waste to chemicals). The benefits, in terms of reductions of greenhouse gases, are expected from the possibility of obtaining chemicals that can replace their analogue normally produced from fossil sources. To date, only one WtC demonstration plant is operating by being fed by rMSW-derived waste, and some similar initiatives are planned, but still adequate assurances in terms of robust knowledge of the involved complex processes, above all, if applied to highly inhomogeneous feed streams such as those obtained from rMSW, are not available. Once the several initiatives come to completion, it will enable waste management professionals to assess performance and to begin to consider such a facility in their planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of industrialization and technological developments and the rate of population growth have begun to disrupt the ecological balance in the world. A large share of the deterioration of this balance is due to the rapidly increasing energy demands of people. Fossil fuels and renewable energy sources are used to obtain the energy that is needed by human beings. Most of the world's energy needs are met by fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. These resources, which we call fossil fuels, cause many parallel environmental problems, such as global warming, climate change, and carbon emissions, for the world and nature. The most affected by all these experiences, of course, is the entire production sector, which is dependent on energy. However, textile and apparel, which is a pioneer in taking steps towards harmonization with the Green Agreement, is one of the sectors that started the transition to green energy within the scope of the European Union and brands' net-zero targets. Within the scope of the Green Agreement, Turkey has participated and started to work for a 70% carbon reduction, which is the target for 2030, and carbon neutrality, which is the target for 2050. Therefore, within the scope of these targets, the textile sector of Çukurova Region, which has the highest export rate in Turkey, was chosen. Within the scope of this study, carbon emission, which is one of the global problems, was examined within the framework of the ISO 14067-ISO Product Based Carbon Footprint (CF) standard by examining the production of a textile company, and the results were analyzed in detail. The main innovation of this article is to follow all stages of the fabric called Tricia, which is the most produced product in the textile industry, from its entry as fiber to its exit as fabric in the factory, and to calculate and analyze the amount of carbon that is released into nature. The dynamic and experimental results showed that it was determined that 6.00 tons of carbon dioxide carbon were released in the time it took for the fabric to go to the sewing room as a fabric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amid global imperatives to combat climate change and achieve sustainable economic development, the convergence of digital transformation and the transition to clean energy has emerged as a critical focal point for oil-exporting nations. This study comprehensively investigates the interplay of digital technology, clean energy transition, climate change, and economic growth among selected oil-exporting nations. Drawing upon a diverse set of economic and geographical contexts, this study uses panel data analysis of data from the World Bank's Economic Indicators and the United Nations Development Program for the period from 2006 to 2020. The results show that digital technology reduces climate change by improving environmental quality, but internet and mobile access have insignificant and negative effects on environmental quality, respectively. Meanwhile, all technology variables negatively impact green energy and economic growth, while the Happy Planet Index and financial development positively impact the green energy transition. This study is important for regulators, producers, and consumers, as it provides a better understanding of the crucial role of digital transformation in sustainable development within oil-export countries. This study's findings can be used to develop policy recommendations for a low-carbon economy, the promotion of digital transformation through green energy, and the management of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the imperative global shift towards renewable energy to mitigate climate change, Latin America (LATAM) emerges as a region of immense untapped potential. However, there is no formal quantification of the effects of developing this potential. This study analyzes the economic and climate impacts of developing renewable energy in LATAM and the Asia–Pacific region using an integrated economic and climate assessment model (IAM). The key findings are as follows. First, exporting renewable energy from LATAM and the Asia–Pacific region yields economic benefits across all regions. However, this surge in renewable energy exacerbates rather than alleviates global warming. Second, the implementation of policy measures accompanying renewable energy exports, aimed at discouraging the use of polluting energy sources, proves effective in mitigating global warming while sustaining significant economic gains globally. Third, LATAM stands to gain substantially from this development. Fourth, due to the gradual process of capital accumulation, any delays in initiating the development of renewable energy exports not only diminish economic gains during the postponement but also in the years following the commencement of exports. These results are robust to several additional simulations and sensitivity analyses. The results align with the goals of the Paris Agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is experiencing a surge in electricity demand, with power generation increasing 4 times in 25 years from 1990 to 2014. Despite the abundant primary renewable energy sources, the country has overlooked them in the past in national energy policies. However, in recent years, renewable energy has become a part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's energy conservation policy due to climate changes, technological progress, economies of scale, and increased competitiveness in supply chains. The Saudi government has created the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (KACARE) to develop national strategies for effectively utilizing renewable and nuclear energy. This paper reviews the current state of the art of the renewable energy technologies available on the market and evaluates the installation of renewable energy plants near Saudi Arabia's East Coast for a new town, focusing on technical rather than economic aspects. The paper provides a wide review of the possible technical solutions to exploit the producibility of different renewable sources, considering the challenging climate conditions typical of desert areas. The analysis of a real case study shows a high availability of wind and solar irradiance that allow a net energy production of 354 and 129 GWh, respectively. In addition, the comparison between a typical ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) system and an emerging floating PV reveals that for the same installed power, occupied area, and environmental conditions, the latter has a 4% greater performance ratio due to the cooling effect of water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]