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With the growing urge to decarbonize the energy sector, actions toward reducing emissions of the oil and gas sector can contribute to bringing large cuts to carbon emissions. One of the routes to achieve this goal is sustainable hybrid energy systems involving renewable energy sources integrated with conventional energy systems. Employing solar energy to drive crude oil refineries is one of the investigated pathways for using renewable energy sources to support lowering the carbon emissions and environmental impact of operating the processing of fossil-based fuels. This paper proposes a solar-assisted method for a petrochemical refinery, considering hydrogen production deployed in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, as a case study to greenize oil refineries. The integrated technologies are: concentrated solar tower, radiative heat tube, steam power cycle, hybrid solar and oil-fired steam generator, and alkaline electrolysis. The system is analyzed thermodynamically to provide a good understanding of its control and performance. An optimized design of the heliostat field, solar tower, and solar receiver is implemented as part of the hybrid system. Based on the solar data for the selected case study, the fuel oil consumption rate and the temperature profile are determined. It is found that the proposed integrated system can save about 131 tonnes per day of fuel oil, thus mitigating the emission of 414 tonnes per day of carbon dioxide while maintaining energy and exergy efficiencies of 82.4% and 55.5%, respectively. These results present an opportunity for the urging transition to more sustainable energy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: As Digital Industry 4.0 advances, shipping operators are progressively implementing digital technologies for maritime decarbonization efforts. Methods: This review employs a bibliometric methodology to thoroughly examine and analyze the application of digital technology in decarbonizing shipping from 2005 to 2024. Examining 201 publications from the SCI-EXPANDED and SSCI databases elucidates the present condition, challenges, and prospects of digital technology applications in this domain. Results: The review demonstrates the swift expansion of research on digital technologies for decarbonization within the shipping sector via an analysis of annual publication trends. Subsequent journal metrics and collaborative network analysis with VOSviewer identified particularly prolific journals, nations, institutions, and authors. Furthermore, this review delineates the field's principal research clusters and hotspots via keyword co-occurrence analysis, offering direction for future investigations. Ultimately, it examines research gaps in speed optimization, emission prediction, and autonomous ships by integrating keyword co-occurrence analysis with the content of recent publications, and then proposes prospective research options. Discussions: Future studies on ship speed optimization could benefit from adopting multi-objective optimization methods, combining more machine-learning techniques with the FCP model, etc. Concerning emission prediction, future research efforts could focus on integrating more diverse external data sources into emission prediction models, adopting emerging technology applications, such as ship-based carbon capture (SBCC), introducing blockchain into smart emission monitoring systems, etc. Future research regarding autonomous ships can further refine optimizing route planning and navigation safety, autonomous ship energy efficiency and emission control, maritime communications and navigation systems, ship electrification, and green design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green finance is closely linked to economic development. At the same time, the reduction in carbon dioxide emissions is a necessary part of economic development. Based on a composite index of green financial development, this study uses panel data for 276 cities in China from 2011 to 2020 and a general equilibrium model based on endogenous growth theory to explore the impact of green finance, decarbonization on high-quality economic development. In addition, the paper examines again the links between the three from the perspective of knowledge networks. The study found that Green finance has the potential to greatly support high-quality economic development, and the combination of green finance with decarbonization has an even greater impact. The air circulation index is used as a tool variable to address the endogenous problem in this research, which investigates the intrinsic logic of these two effects. The preceding conclusion is valid. This paper focuses on the existing ways of interacting. The findings indicate that changes in industry structure and R&D expenditure will have a more significant impact. At the same time, from the standpoint of knowledge networks, this research demonstrates an inverted U-shaped link between knowledge network centrality and structural hole and high-quality economic development. The interaction demonstrates that knowledge networks' centrality and structural hole play a beneficial regulatory function in green financing, decarbonization, and high-quality economic development. This article also examines the heterogeneity between the two. We also find that this impact is more significant in the eastern region, the central region, the Yangtze River Economic Belt, and the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region. The results of the empirical study have important implications for green finance planning and decarbonization in China. Improve the green financial development system, coordinate the regional economy's high-quality development level, and serve as a knowledge network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To better align the emissions trajectory of China's power sector with the country's neutrality target for 2060, China's national Emission Trading System (ETS) needs to be enhanced. This study uses a power system planning model that incorporates an output-based ETS module to explore the effects of three enhanced ETS options: 1) tightening the benchmark faster, 2) introducing auctions, and 3) transitioning to a cap-and-trade ETS. A cap-and-trade ETS can achieve deep decarbonization at the lowest cost by encouraging cheap renewables. With an increased benchmark stringency under free allocation and output-based ETS, the power sector can achieve the same level of emission reduction at a 5.2% higher cost compared to a cap-and-trade ETS. This is due to the extensive development of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology, facilitated by the free allowance allocation of the output-based ETS. Introducing auctions into an output-based ETS would encourage both renewables and CCUS and increase the cost by 1.4% compared to the cap-and-trade ETS. First, we suggest that auctioning be introduced into an output-based ETS to cost-effectively encourage a diversified power supply. Subsequently, we recommend turning to a cap-and-trade ETS after 2030 to reduce the cost of decarbonization. Key policy insights The same emission trajectory can be achieved with different technology mixes using different ETS designs. Output-based ETS with free allowance allocation leads to high decarbonization costs with large CCUS utilization. Introducing auctions into an output-based ETS can reduce emissions with a limited increase in cost and lead to a more diversified technology mix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the discharge of carbon is one of the main causes for ongoing global warming issue and change in climate, most nations have committed to decarbonizing their economies at the COP26 summit. Thus, this investigation aims to explore the consequences of innovations in sustainable energy technologies on decarbonization in the 20 most innovative nations across the globe. In assessing the cause-and-effect relationship, we have used "Panel Non-linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (P-NARDL)" technique. The findings demonstrated that the variables have a lasting relationship. The positive asymmetric shock in the innovations in sustainable energy technologies has a positive influence on the decarbonization of these nations, while the negative asymmetric effect is insignificant. According to the findings, clean energy negatively consequence on carbonization whereas growth in economy is favorably and considerably connected with it. The findings demonstrate that there is bidirectional causation between all variables under investigation, with the exception of the unidirectional causality flows from the usage of sustainable energy technology and emissions of CO2. In a global context, this research suggests that government should identify the roles of new sustainable energy technologies by reforming patenting regulations to rectify the environmental damages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building energy renovations demand expertise from professionals to guide processes, including diagnostics, project planning, interventions, and maintenance. The emergence of open-access AI, like ChatGPT in November 2022, offers new possibilities for improving these processes by assisting or potentially replacing human experts. This study explores the effectiveness of ChatGPT in diagnosing energy renovation measures. Initial assessments involve basic queries to the AI, followed by the inclusion of additional data and secondary questions to gauge its full diagnostic potential. An existing building case from the literature is given to the AI to define the best energy renovation measures. Expert evaluations and comparisons with research-backed solutions assess the AI's performance using different degrees of questioning details over 60 repetitions. The results indicate that ChatGPT can provide valuable insights and generate comprehensive lists of feasible measures and preliminary cost calculations and payback, but, in general, it lacks depth and quality without specialized input and preparation. A significant quality improvement was found between the tests with 2023 and 2024 AI versions. Open-access AI proves capable of enhancing renovation diagnostics but remains a complement rather than a replacement for building renovation expert judgment. This research underscores the potential of mainstream AI to democratize access to knowledge, albeit with limitations tied to its dependence on quality inputs and contextual expertise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the transformative effects of decarbonization on electricity market design, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities posed by the rapid integration of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. It analyzes the evolution of key wholesale market segments—including day-ahead, real-time, capacity, long-term purchase agreements, ancillary services, and transmission markets—highlighting their critical roles in managing the variability of renewable energy generation through efficient price signals and resource coordination. Variable renewable energy integration introduces significant operational challenges, including overgeneration risks, ramping capacity demands, forecast inaccuracies, and transmission constraints. Addressing these issues requires enhanced market flexibility, dynamic pricing mechanisms, and advanced real-time balancing strategies. This paper assesses these challenges, offering strategies to align generation with demand and optimize market outcomes. As electricity systems evolve, legacy market structures must adapt to incorporate carbon-free resources while maintaining grid reliability and economic sustainability. By exploring case studies such as Chile and California, this paper demonstrates the importance of targeted innovations in market design, regulatory frameworks, and operational technologies. It advocates for a holistic approach to ensure a reliable, affordable, and equitable transition to a decarbonized energy future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Union continues to lead global efforts toward climate neutrality by developing a cohesive regulatory and market framework for alternative fuels, including renewable hydrogen. This review article critically examines the recent evolution of the EU's policy landscape specifically for hydrogen as a renewable fuel of non-biological origin (RFNBO), highlighting its growing importance in hard-to-abate sectors such as industry and transportation. We assess the interplay of market-based mechanisms (e.g., EU ETS II), direct mandates (e.g., FuelEU Maritime, RED III), and support auction-based measures (e.g., the European Hydrogen Bank) that collectively shape both the demand and the supply of hydrogen as RFNBO fuel. The article also addresses emerging cost, capacity, and technical barriers—ranging from constrained electrolyzer deployment to complex certification requirements—that hinder large-scale adoption and market rollout. The article aims to discuss advancing and changing regulatory and market environment for the development of infrastructure and market for hydrogen as RFNBO fuel in the EU in 2019–2024. Synthesizing current research and policy developments, we propose targeted recommendations, including enhanced cross-border coordination and capacity-based incentives, to accelerate investment and infrastructure development. This review informs policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers on critical success factors for integrating hydrogen as a cornerstone of the EU's climate neutrality efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Policies concerning renewable energy transition are the primary responsibilities of individual states in the United States. This article aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of state-level renewable energy policies, focusing on identifying key factors driving successful energy transitions and offering actionable insights for policymakers. The research investigates: What are the critical indicators and strategies contributing to an effective renewable energy transition at the state level? To ensure meaningful comparisons, states were selected based on top and bottom performance across various energy parameters, including renewable energy share, solar and wind capacity, electricity costs, and policy adoption (RPS, EERS, and net metering). A rubric, structured around environmental, institutional, social, and techno-economic criteria, was developed to measure policy effectiveness across 15 indicators. Scores for each state were weighted based on their contextual relevance, determined through consultations with energy professionals and the adaptation of existing weighting frameworks. Washington state emerges as the frontrunner, achieving the highest scores for both weighted and unweighted transition performance, closely followed by California. Conversely, Kentucky, Texas, and Florida exhibit the lowest scores. A correlation analysis reveals relationships among performance indicators, such as the impact of stakeholder diversity on energy equity and the link between policy integration and energy demand. This study provides a roadmap for prioritizing renewable policy integration, showing how technology and policy drivers collectively influence the rate of energy transitions. It offers essential insights for shaping state-level renewable energy policies, fostering partnerships, and steering states toward a greener and more resilient energy future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing demand for reinforced concrete (RC) structures, driven by population growth, significantly contributes to carbon emissions, particularly during the construction phase. Steel rebar production, a major contributor to these emissions, faces challenges due to high material consumption and waste, often stemming from market-length rebar and conventional lap splices, impeding decarbonization efforts. This study introduces a comprehensive strategy to minimize rebar consumption and waste, advancing decarbonization in the civil and construction industry. The strategy integrates a special-length-priority minimization algorithm with lap splice position adjustments or couplers to reduce rebar consumption, waste, and carbon emissions. A case study evaluates distinct scenarios regarding rebar consumption. The study demonstrates that conventional rebar practices, such as market-length rebar and lap splices, lead to excessive consumption and waste, impeding decarbonization. Couplers significantly reduce rebar requirements, though cutting waste remains when combined with market-length rebar. Special-length-priority optimization with lap splice adjustments demonstrates greater efficiency in reducing consumption while minimizing cutting waste, proving effectiveness. The combination of special-length-priority optimization and couplers achieves the greatest reductions in rebar consumption, waste, and carbon emissions, making it the most efficient strategy for future construction projects. These findings emphasize the importance of optimizing rebar consumption in advancing decarbonization and promoting sustainable practices in the civil and construction industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Globally, the landscape of corporate carbon disclosures (CCD) is continually evolving as societal, environmental and regulatory expectations change over time. The goal of this study is to examine the challenges faced by Indian firms' corporate carbon reporting (CCR). The literature recognized the hurdles to reaching net zero emissions and decarbonization, which are equally applicable to carbon disclosure (CD). Design/methodology/approach: The scope 3 emission disclosure barriers (S3EDBs) identified from the literature were ranked, and their relationships were discovered using the "Grey-based decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory" (Grey- DEMATEL) technique. Findings: The key findings are the S3EDBs, the most prominent barriers, their interrelationships and important insights for managers of organizations in prioritizing the action area for scope 3 CD. Eight S3EDBs were categorized in terms of cause and effect, threshold value is calculated as 0.78. "Quality, and reliability of data," "Government policies and statutory requirement on emission disclosure" and "Traceability and managing supply chain partners" are the most prominent S3EDBs. Practical implications: The results will help industry people in countries with emerging economies that have significant scope 3 carbon footprints. The managers can plan to deal with top S3EDBs as a step towards decarbonization and ultimately fighting climate change (CC). Originality/value: This study is one of the first to rank these barriers to CD so that industry practitioners can prioritize their actions. The core contribution of this research is to detect the most significant S3EDBs and their interdependencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Import demand elasticity (IDE) is a critical metric often employed to guide government decisions regarding tariffs and non-tariff barriers, ensuring that foreign trade remains uninterrupted while optimizing tax revenues. This study, however, leverages IDE to assess the impact of the carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) on Türkiye's decarbonization process. Specifically, the research analyzed the total export quantities and unit prices of four product groups—cement, fertilizers, and inorganic chemicals, steel and iron, and aluminum—exported from Türkiye to the European Union-27 countries under the CBAM framework between 2002 and 2021. Using CCE and AMG methodologies, IDE parameters were estimated, followed by calculations of unit price increases and potential export losses across three distinct scenarios. The findings indicate IDE values of 1.95 for cement, 1.20 for fertilizers and inorganic chemicals, 1.85 for steel and iron, and 1.47 for aluminum. These high elasticity values suggest that Türkiye may face substantial export losses for these products. Later we calculated unit price increase and potential export loss according to three different scenarios. Across all three potential scenarios, while Türkiye's iron and steel exports to the EU-27 face a great risk of declining by approximately 25%, the aluminum sector was found to be the least affected across all three scenarios. Consequently, it is imperative for Türkiye to expedite its decarbonization efforts to safeguard its export market share within the EU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change poses a significant threat to economic development and necessitates immediate action to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. This study investigates the feasibility of hydrogen systems as a comprehensive solution for decarbonizing the distillery industry, a sector often deemed "hard-to-treat" from service perspective. Through a qualitative case study of a whiskey distillery in Scotland, insights from senior management at both the distillery and the hydrogen system provider reveal the potential of hydrogen to not only serve as an energy source but also to address broader sustainability challenges within the food and agriculture sector. While advantages are evident, the study also identifies challenges related to infrastructure, cost, and the need for shifts in government policy, user attitudes, and investor perspectives. This research serves as a precursor to broader sectoral studies aimed at developing pathways toward net-zero emissions, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to unlock the full potential of hydrogen as a transformative solution for achieving a sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of policies and incentives aimed at promoting high-temperature heat pumps (HTHPs) globally. It examines the various strategies employed by different countries to encourage the adoption of HTHPs, highlighting both the opportunities and the barriers encountered in these efforts. The analysis includes a review of financial incentives, regulatory measures, and technological initiatives designed to facilitate the integration of HTHPs into industrial applications. By describing different approaches across regions, this paper identifies best practices and potential pitfalls, offering a nuanced understanding of how different policy frameworks impact the deployment of HTHPs. Additionally, this paper explores the technological challenges that influence the effectiveness of these policies. The findings underscore the critical role of supportive policies in overcoming technical and economic barriers, ultimately fostering the widespread use of HTHPs as a viable solution for reducing industrial emissions and advancing global decarbonization goals. Furthermore, utilizing electricity from renewable energy sources (RESs), HTHPs can also contribute to grid stability by reducing electricity peaks. This aspect enhances the integration of RESs into the energy mix, creating a more resilient grid and optimizing energy consumption patterns in industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of energy generation and consumption is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy-system-related waste, costs, and emissions in cities. This paper considers a university district consisting of 32 buildings where electrical demand is currently met by the national grid, and 31% of thermal demand is supplied by a centralized heating station through a district heating network; the remainder is covered by small, dedicated boilers. Starting from the present system, the goal is to identify "retrofit" design solutions to reduce cost, environmental impact, and the primary energy consumption of the district. To this end, three new configurations of the multi-energy system (MES) of the district are proposed considering (i) the installation of new energy conversion and storage units, (ii) the enlargement of the existing district heating network, and (iii) the inclusion of new branches of the electrical and heating network. The configurations differ in increasing levels of integration through the energy networks. The results show that the installation of cogeneration engines leads to significant benefits in both economic (up to −12.3% of total annual costs) and energy (up to −10.2% of the primary energy consumption) terms; these benefits increase as the level of integration increases. On the other hand, the limited availability of space for photovoltaics results in increased CO2 emissions when only total cost minimization is considered. However, by accepting a cost increase of 8.4% over the least expensive solution, a significant reduction in CO2 (−23.9%) can be achieved while still keeping total costs lower than the existing MES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hospitality sector is a substantial energy consumer, driven by the demands of heating, cooling, lighting and guest amenities. This study explores energy consumption patterns across different hotel types, highlighting luxury hotels' higher usage compared to mid-range and budget establishments. Key energy drivers include HVAC systems, lighting and hot water. Legislative frameworks, such as the Paris Agreement, the Sustainable Development Goals and European Union directives, set ambitious energy efficiency and emissions targets for the sector. Through case studies on Marriott, Hilton and Hotel Verde, the study demonstrates effective energy-saving practices, including LED lighting, smart HVAC systems and renewable energy integration, which can reduce energy use by 10–20%. The findings show the dual benefits of these measures, which enhance environmental sustainability and reduce operational costs. By adopting these practices, hotels can align with evolving regulatory standards and cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly accommodations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research study presents a comparison of an in-person and an online conference in terms of environmental impact and energy efficiency. The main goal of our research was to prepare a complete life cycle assessment of a two-day (15-h), 200-participant in-person and online conference based on different impact assessment methods. Life cycle assessments focus on the numerical determination of the decarbonization of conference consumption (lunch, dinner, food and beverage consumption during breaks), conference organization (discussions, correspondence, abstract booklet, registration package), travel, and infrastructure. The meals were examined by connecting the stages of preparation, cooking, consumption and end-of-life cycle as a cradle-to-grave analysis. We paid particular attention to the calculation of energy consumption. After carbon footprint comparisons, the areas with the highest impacts with pie diagrams were identified. Lastly, a SWOT chart and an SAP-LAP analysis diagram summarize the achievable objectives and challenges. In conclusion, there is no outstanding difference between the impact assessment methods for the carbon footprint investigation. Travel contributes 57% of the overall carbon footprint at in-person conferences, while the environmental impact of meals holds the second largest share, at 8.41 kg CO2 equivalent/person/hour. Excluding meals and travel, the calculated carbon footprint is 0.362 kg CO2 equivalent/person/hour (only considering the effect of preparation, organization, administration and registration package). Our initial hypothesis was that an online conference reduces decarbonization, which the results confirm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research article is to perform a greenhouse gas (GHG) impact assessment using a lifecycle analysis of a cold-ironing solution for vessels at anchorage in a retrofitted barge and a marine genset combusting biomethane in dual fuel mode. A lifecycle methodology is developed based on the 4th International Maritime Organization (IMO) GHG study. Eleven impact scenarios are evaluated in terms of CO2 and harmful pollutants (SOx, CO, PM10, PM2.5, NMVOC, and NOx). Vessels operated by Petronav Ship Management Ltd are examined, specifically M/T Alexandria and M/T Astraia. The scenarios reveal CO2 reductions of up to 21% and CO increases of up to 60% due to the combustion of biomethane in dual fuel mode, alongside SOx reductions of up to 20% with increasing biomethane energy substitution. Particulates and NOx decrease due to the utilization of biomethane. This article presents a pragmatic solution for cold ironing for vessels at anchorage with proven lower GHG emissions with the exception of increased CO emissions, therefore the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study provides a comparative analysis of ecological impact assessment (EcIA) guidance for the design and approval stages of carbon sequestration and emission reduction projects, which are rapidly proliferating in response to the global need for climate change mitigation. Previous reports of negative effects on biodiversity from such projects suggest a need for more robust project design and assessment processes to improve synergies with conservation. Using a content and thematic analysis methodology, we compared four published frameworks that guide the assessment of carbon projects in natural environments. The results showed considerable variation in environmental assessment components including the level of attention to ecosystem services and the identification of areas of high conservation value that may require specific protections. There was a general lack of guidance on the inclusion of indirect and supply chain effects despite their relevance to ecological impacts. Critically, guidance in common use in the climate mitigation sector shows differing applications of the baseline and counterfactual scenarios that are used to quantify impacts. We discuss the need to focus assessment and reporting on comparisons with recent baselines to identify the contributions of individual projects and enable adaptive management and show how aligning with the concepts of Nature-based Solutions and nature-positive could be used to reimagine the role of EcIA to achieve these objectives. If these current weaknesses can be improved, EcIA has the potential to become an important implementation pathway for the conservation–climate change nexus due to its pivotal role in project design and approval processes. Conversely, a failure to reliably address these aspects will undermine the utility of EcIA as a decision support tool for sustainable development. We encourage the further exploration of EcIA practices in this direction and highlight the pressing need for reliable comparisons to support more strategic and sustainable solutions for both the conservation and climate change agendas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Standard carbon accounting methods and metrics undermine the potential of fast-growing biogenic materials to decarbonize buildings because they ignore the timing of carbon uptake. The consequence is that analyses can indicate that a building material is carbon-neutral when it is not climate-neutral. Here, we investigated the time-dependent effect of using fast-growing fibers in durable construction materials. This study estimated the material stock and flow and associated cradle-to-gate emissions for four residential framing systems in the US: concrete masonry units, light-frame dimensional timber, and two framing systems that incorporate fast-growing fibers (bamboo and Eucalyptus). The carbon flows for these four framing systems were scaled across four adoption scenarios, Business as Usual, Early-Fast, Late-Slow, and Highly Optimistic, ranging from no adoption to the full adoption of fast-growing materials in new construction within 10 years. Dynamic life cycle assessment modeling was used to project the radiative forcing and global temperature change potential. The results show that the adoption of fast-growing biogenic construction materials can significantly reduce the climate impact of new US residential buildings. However, this study also reveals that highly aggressive, immediate adoption is the only way to achieve net climate cooling from residential framing within this century, highlighting the urgent need to change the methods and metrics decision makers use to evaluate building materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines how Climate-Related Financial Policies (CRFPs) support decarbonization and renewable energy transitions across 87 countries from 2000 to 2023. Using the Policy Sequencing Score (PSS) and a bindingness-weighted adoption indicator, it explores the relationships between CRFPs, CO2 emissions, and Renewable Energy Production (REP) across diverse economic and institutional contexts. Findings reveal significant variation in outcomes. Advanced economies and OECD countries leverage structured policies and robust institutions to achieve steady emissions reductions and REP growth, with diminishing returns at higher policy intensities. Emerging Markets and Developing Economies (EMDEs) face institutional and structural constraints but show strong responsiveness to targeted policies, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, where renewable energy growth potential is notable. Regions such as Latin America and East Asia display mixed trends, reflecting unique challenges and opportunities. Binding policies prove essential for environmental outcomes, particularly in institutionalized settings, while EMDEs require capacity building and international cooperation to address barriers. This study highlights the importance of tailoring CRFPs to specific contexts, emphasizing policy sequencing, enforcement, and capacity building. By identifying global and regional variations, the findings provide actionable insights for aligning financial systems with climate goals, fostering a sustainable low-carbon transition, and addressing equity challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is an industrially significant gas and is considered a potential clean fuel. In the time of climate change; when the global impetus is towards reducing the reliance on fossil fuel, there is a need to go for other alternatives to secure the supply of this strategic gas as almost 95 % of Hydrogen is generated from fossil fuels. Geothermal energy is a reliable green energy source that harnesses crust thermal heat to generate power and is independent of physical weather processes. In this study, we outlined the different production techniques of hydrogen and evaluated the utilization of geothermal resources in the generation of green hydrogen. This study evaluated the different electrolyzers and geothermal energy-based green hydrogen production models and we concluded that cogeneration of hydrogen with the geothermal plant is strongly dependent on the temperature of the geothermal fluid, its flow rate, the cycle of the plant, and the ORC working fluid. Green hydrogen production utilizes the waste thermal energy of the plant thus increasing the plant efficiency and plant output diversification adds up to its economy. In this study, we also outlined the feasibility prospects of geothermal-based green hydrogen and concluded that geothermal energy-based green hydrogen can be a promising way to decarbonization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrifying end uses is a key strategy to reducing GHG emissions in buildings. However, it may increase peak electricity demand that triggers the need to upgrade the existing power distribution system, leading to delays in electrification and needs of significant investment. There is also concern that building electrification may cause an increase of energy costs, leading to further energy burden for low-income communities. This study uses the urban scale building modeling tool CityBES to assess the electrification impacts of more than 43,000 residential buildings in a neighborhood of Portland, Oregon, USA. Energy efficiency upgrades were investigated on their potential to mitigate the increase of peak electricity demand and energy burden. Simulation results from the calibrated EnergyPlus models show that electrification with heat pumps for space heating and cooling as well as for domestic water heating can reduce CO2e emissions by 38%, but increase peak electricity demand by about 9% from the baseline building stock. Combining electrification measures and energy efficiency upgrades can reduce CO2e emissions by 48% while reducing peak electricity demand by 6% and saving the median household energy costs by 28%. City and utility decision makers should consider integrating energy efficiency upgrades with electrification measures as an effective residential building electrification strategy, which significantly reduces carbon emissions, caps or even decreases peak demand while reducing energy burden of residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Since the outbreak of COVID-19, its impacts on the maritime transportation and logistics field have been multi-dimensional. In addition to the green shipping corridor proposed by the Clydebank Declaration in the United Kingdom in 2021, port digitalisation and decarbonisation of the maritime industry have become focal issues in the field. The industry needs a new framework to offset the negative impacts of the pandemic and to accommodate integrated technologies comprising of artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, cloud systems, internet of things (IoT) and others, which have been applied to the industry. Having considered these circumstances, this paper aims to propose the 6th-generation ports model with smart port (6GP) as a new framework for the port logistics industry in the post-COVID-19 period. The proposed 6GP contributes to providing business development strategy and port development policy for stakeholders in the industry in the post-pandemic era reflecting focal challenges such as digitalisation, decarbonisation, sustainability and smart transformation. It also contributes to expanding port devolution theory from the fifth-generation ports (5GP) to 6GP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to investigate the compositions of commercial soda–lime–silica glasses currently present in the UK market, as there is a lack of recent research on the subject, with the most recent studies now being over 20 years old. This study involved sampling and analyzing the compositions of over 30 commercial soda–lime–silica container and float glass samples, primarily from the UK market, in 2022 to 2023. Based on the results, the characteristics of these commercial glasses has been evaluated using multiple property models and analysis methods. In the first part, we illustrated the opportunities for glass manufacturers to modify or adjust their glass compositions to enable lower melting temperatures, thereby reducing energy demand and fuel carbon emissions. This can help the glass industry meet its net zero carbon emissions targets. It de‐risks compositional modifications for a glass manufacturer by highlighting that other manufacturers have already successfully commercially implemented such changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the effects of transitioning to hydrogen production in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Palawan Province, Philippines, focusing on technology, environment, and stakeholder impact. This research, conducted through a July 2022 survey, aimed to assess public awareness, knowledge, risk perception, and acceptance of hydrogen and its environmentally friendly variant, green hydrogen, infrastructure. Disparities were found between urban NCR and rural Palawan, with lower awareness in Palawan. Safety concerns were highlighted, with NCR respondents generally considering hydrogen production safe, while Palawan respondents had mixed feelings, particularly regarding nuclear-based hydrogen generation. This report emphasizes the potential ecological advantages of hydrogen technology but highlights potential issues concerning water usage and land impacts. It suggests targeted public awareness campaigns, robust safety assurance programs, regional pilot projects, and integrated environmental plans to facilitate the seamless integration of hydrogen technology into the Philippines' energy portfolio. This collective effort aims to help the country meet climate action obligations, foster sustainable development, and enhance energy resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In a highly competitive scenario, such as today's airline business, changes in the regulatory framework may produce important variations in the airlines' results. An example is the introduction of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandates to help air transport decarbonization. The airlines' break–even curve provides a useful tool to evaluate the competitive position among airlines and to assess and address the cost impact due to the new regulatory environment. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the impact of new environmental regulations on airlines' business results to achieve air transport decarbonization. Design/methodology/approach: Based on the break–even curve and the relationship between fuel cost increment and fuel cost related to the airlines' operating expenses, the unit cost increment due to SAF introduction is obtained for several scenarios of SAF prices and different airlines. Findings: In many cases, we find that using 100% SAF with prices beyond 1.5 times the present fuel price generates losses: it is not feasible if it is not possible to transfer SAF price to passenger fares due to demand elasticity. Originality/value: The novelty of this approach is the application of a rationale method to accurately determine the impact of several scenarios of SAF prices on airlines' business results. This approach also provides a sound and compelling basis to argue before Environmental Regulation Authorities based on facts and figures. This paper is of use and value to airlines, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), practitioners and academics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pyrolysis of water hyacinth is gaining attention and acceptance as a resource recovery technique due to its availability and economic viability. However, the presence of lignin, one of the three major biomass fractions, presents significant challenges for profitable water hyacinth processing for biofuel production. Fungal pretreatment of water hyacinth for lignin breakdown has been explored but the application of Trichoderma atroviride as a pretreatment for pyrolysis is relatively novel. The efficacy of T. atroviride pretreatment in improving water hyacinth's pyrolytic products using a fixed‐bed reactor was therefore investigated in this study. The optimization process was studied using a central composite design in response surface methodology with Design Expert 13. Delignification of the biomass was established because the elemental analysis showed a 25.42% increase in cellulose content and a 23.40% and 3.37% decrease in lignin and hemicellulose content, respectively. The biomass pretreatment applied influenced the physical and chemical characteristics of the pyrolytic products. The highest pyrolysis oil yield increased by 25.81% at 575 °C and particle size 2290 μm, and the highest char yield decreased by 4.23% at 273 °C and particle size 1500 μm. This research is crucial for policy and research conversations as it offers a scientific basis for the application of T. atroviride pretreatment in biomass pyrolysis technology and emphasizes the optimal utilization of water hyacinths to obtain socio‐environmental benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of the presented article is to present the pro-ecological behaviour of the A.P. Moller-Maersk company in the context of an increasingly widely implemented business model, which is the ESG strategy. Design/methodology/approach: The basic research method used in this article is a case study and the description and analysis of enterprise business models. Findings: As a result of the research, the characteristics of the business model of the A.P. Moller-Maersk company were presented, focusing on its pro-ecological behaviour. Originality/value: The described company, being a one of the largest sea carriers and container operators, successfully implementing ESG assumptions may become an entity whose behaviour will be imitated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy decarbonization transition in developing countries faces significant financial constraints, and foreign aid directed towards the energy sector provides potential solutions. However, existing research lacks empirical validation of the relationship and mechanisms between energy aid and the energy decarbonization transition. Hence, this study aims to explore the effectiveness of energy aid in driving the energy decarbonization transition in recipient countries and examines the presence of asymmetry and underlying mechanisms. Our findings indicate that energy aid effectively promotes the transition to energy decarbonization, with the most substantial positive impact stemming from aid directed towards renewable energy generation, energy policy, and energy distribution. Moreover, the relationship between energy aid and energy decarbonization transition exhibits asymmetry. Additionally, energy aid indirectly drives the energy decarbonization transition by fostering financial development and enhancing human capital, and its positive impact is further amplified by government quality and the demand for clean fuels. The novelty of this study lies in its comprehensive analysis of the intricate interactions between energy aid and the energy decarbonization transition. These findings have crucial policy implications for international organizations and governments seeking to support sustainable energy transitions in developing countries and enhance the effectiveness of energy aid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of intelligent warehouse systems is resulting in the realization of automation in warehouse activities and raising awareness of decarbonization, particularly the need to reduce carbon emissions from electricity consumption. Driven by the decarbonization trend, microgrid systems with rooftop photovoltaic panels are becoming more popular in warehouses and are providing zero-carbon electricity for warehouse operations. How to make better use of microgrid systems and reduce the consumption of electricity generated from traditional energy sources is becoming increasingly important in warehouse systems. This paper investigates an operational problem in a warehouse system equipped with a shuttle-based storage and retrieval system, in which a microgrid system acts as the main electricity source. Power-load management is applied to avoid peaks of energy consumption, and a mixed linear programming model is developed to optimize task sequencing and scheduling with decarbonization awareness. To solve the proposed problem, a data-driven variable neighbourhood search algorithm is built. Numerical experiments are conducted to validate the model and algorithm. Sensitivity analysis shows the effectiveness of power-load management and the influence of system configuration on energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimization of the energy system serving users' aggregations at urban level, such as Energy Communities, is commonly addressed by optimizing separately the set of energy conversion and storage systems from the scheduling of energy demand. Conversely, this paper proposes an integrated approach to include the demand side in the design and operation optimization of the energy system of an Energy Community. The goal is to evaluate the economic, energetic, and environmental benefits when users with different demands are aggregated, and different degrees of flexibility of their electricity demand are considered. The optimization is based on a Mixed-Integer Linear Programming approach and is solved multiple times by varying (i) the share of each type of user (residential, commercial, and office), (ii) the allowed variation of the hourly electricity demand, and (iii) the maximum permitted CO2 emissions. Results show that an hourly flexibility of up to 50% in electricity demand reduces the overall system cost and the amount of energy withdrawn from the grid by up to 25% and 31%, respectively, compared to a non-flexible system. Moreover, the aggregation of users whose demands match well with electricity generation from renewable sources can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 30%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the impact of foreign direct investment (FDI), per capita GDP, renewable energy consumption, and urbanization on India's C O 2 emissions over the period 1990–2023. In the context of rapid economic growth and urbanization, India faces major challenges related to environmental sustainability. Using the ARDL (Autoregressive Distributed Lag) model and the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC), this research analyzes the complex relationships between these factors and C O 2 emissions. The results highlight the existence of an N-shaped EKC curve with two inflection points at GDP values. This study highlights the essential role of renewable energy consumption in reducing emissions and improving access to electricity in promoting sustainable development. The findings provide valuable insights into economic and energy policies, highlighting the need to balance economic growth with environmental protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decarbonizing the iron and steelmaking industry is critical for China to pursue the net-zero emissions target and advance sustainable industrialization (SDG 9). This paper addresses the urgent need for decarbonization strategies in this sector, aiming to align with China's carbon neutrality goals by 2060. By reviewing the current technological advancements and potential pathways for deep decarbonization, including process optimization, hydrogen-based direct reduction, and carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), these decarbonization technologies are categorized into six strategic approaches: systemic energy efficiency improvement, resource recycling, process optimization and innovation, breakthrough smelting, product iterative upgrading, and CCUS. These strategies also align with SDG 13 (climate action) by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy) through the promotion of clean energy technologies. These strategies are evaluated for their emission reduction potential and technological maturity. The results indicate that, while efficiency improvements and resource recycling are currently the most mature and widely implemented strategy, significant breakthroughs in hydrogen metallurgy and CCUS are essential for achieving long-term carbon neutrality. Based on an analysis, a comprehensive roadmap is proposed, detailing the near-term to long-term actions required for the industry's transition. The near-term focus (up to 2030) should be on enhancing energy efficiency and process optimization, whereas the mid-term (2030–2050) focus should emphasize the adoption of hydrogen-based technologies and CCUS. By the 2050–2060 period, the industry should achieve widespread commercialization of breakthrough smelting technologies and CCUS, ensuring the achievement of carbon neutrality. This study intends to provide a systematic framework and strategic recommendations for policymakers and industry stakeholders to guide the decarbonization of China's iron and steelmaking sector, addressing both technological and economic challenges to achieve sustainable and low-carbon development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article systematically analyzes the transition to innovative metallurgical technologies in the context of the priority direction of decarbonization. It is determined that at present the main direction of decarbonization can be considered the rapid development of electrometallurgy. Within the framework of this direction, oxygen blowing of liquid metal, extra-furnace treatment, the use of powerful transformers, automatic melting control, processing with synthetic slags, melting in induction furnaces, preliminary heating of the charge, and the widespread use of injection metallurgical processes are recognized as innovative technologies. Reducing energy consumption in the production of electric steel has been put forward as the main task of metallurgical technologies. Two main directions of decarbonization in the steelmaking complex have been identified: intensification of smelting based on increasing the capacity of the furnace transformer and the introduction of modern "oxygen" technologies and a modular system in smelting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines from an interdisciplinary perspective the problem of quantitative accounting, assessment and minimization of the carbon footprint (CF) of the infrastructures of the oil and gas sector (OGS) of the fuel and energy complex (FEC) of Russia at all stages of their life cycle (LC), including diagnostics, monitoring, maintenance, recovery from accidents and disasters. The ultimate goal of the study is to develop a working algorithm that allows formulating a global carbon balance equation according to the top-down scheme, which shows the contribution of each infrastructure to the global carbon footprint, taking into account climate change according to the criterion of the need to achieve zero CO2 emissions by 2060, in accordance with the obligations assumed by Russia under the Paris Agreement of 2015. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper (opening keynote lecture of the 6-th Eurasia Risk 2024 Conference) examines, from the interdisciplinary positions of the infranetics umbrella science and MABICS convergent technologies, the problem of climate change as a generally recognized consequence of the heating of the Earth's atmosphere due to uncontrolled emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) by the global infrastructure (GI) – the second, artificial, nature created by man. An overview is given of the state of the problem of reducing the carbon footprint (CF) of the global system of infrastructure systems, which, on the one hand, ensures the sustainable development of the mankind, and on the other hand, is the main cause of global warming, which, if not combated, poses an existential threat to humanity. It is shown that the problem of restoring and maintaining the homeostasis of planetary ecology consists in ensuring a balance between two opposite processes – sustainable socio-economic development of the world community and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, by achieving net zero emissions. The problem of quantitative accounting, assessing and minimizing the infrastructures CF at all stages of their life cycle (LC), including diagnostics, monitoring, maintenance, recovery from accidents and disasters, is considered. Significant information gaps and scatter in CF estimates are noted, which indicate insufficient accuracy of the currently used methods. It is shown that it is necessary to develop a working algorithm for solving the global carbon balance equation considering climate change, according to the top-down scheme, which shows the contribution to the global CF of each infrastructure over time, according to the criterion of achieving zero CO2 emissions by 2060, in accordance with countries’ obligations under the Paris Protocol of 2015. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Building temperature setpoints affect both HVAC energy consumption and occupant comfort. To reduce HVAC energy usage, researchers often investigate how system operations can be optimized under weather and occupancy variability subject to a fixed setpoint that minimizes any possible discomfort. While previous research has explored the selection of dynamic setpoints to minimize HVAC energy consumption based on outdoor temperature, they have often neglected the impact of varying occupancy rates on the setpoints. This paper aims to demystify energy savings derived from fixed and dynamic temperature setpoints under weather and occupancy variability and explores the additional energy savings that can be achieved through dynamic temperature setpoints. An exhaustive HVAC zone temperature setpoint optimizer was developed to determine dynamic setpoints with respect to weather and occupancy (i.e., setpoints that minimize HVAC energy consumption at different occupancy rates based on outdoor weather). U.S. DOE reference building energy models for small, medium, and large office buildings were simulated at 17 climate zones, 4 occupancy rates (25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) and 7 setpoints (19.5°C to 25.5°C at 1°C interval). It was found that, both fixed and dynamic setpoints benefit from the energy reduction of approximately 2-4% from the lower heat generated by the occupants at lower occupancy rates. However, at outdoor temperatures between 5°C and 32°C where occupant heat loads can swing the building between heating, free-running, and cooling modes, dynamic setpoints yield additional 2-10% energy savings, compared to fixed setpoints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decarbonization of hard-to-abate industrial sectors, namely the extractive industries, has become an imperative, and thus, processes such as carbon capture and utilization (CCU) have been explored thoroughly and seem to be a promising solution. Carbon dioxide (CO2) catalytic hydrogenation employing green hydrogen (H2) to produce synthetic methanol (MeOH) aims to utilize industrial-captured carbon. A thermodynamic and kinetic analysis of a pilot scale methanol synthesis reactor was conducted by modeling the process using Aspen Plus V12 software. The methanol synthesis model consists mainly of a multi-tubular packed-bed reactor with a thermal oil heat recovery system, a product separator, and an internal recycle loop for optimal efficiency. The reactor has a 5 kg h−1 methanol production capacity, and its heat recovery system achieves an overall heat reduction of 64.1% and can retrieve 1.293 kWh per kg of methanol produced. The overall carbon conversion achieved is 80.6%. Valuable information concerning the design and profile of the reactor is provided in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decarbonization of industrial energy systems which comprise different networks (such as steam, water, electric power, fuel sources) is crucial for mitigating climate change and achieving sustainability goals. This paper presents a comprehensive methodology integrated in an open-source in-house tool for the coupled design and operation optimization of energy systems in industrial settings. The proposed approach integrates advanced optimization techniques with modeling of energy systems including properties like mass flow and temperature to simultaneously optimize both design parameters and operational strategies. The methodology encompasses the optimized integration of various energy technologies, such as renewable energy technologies, energy storage, and power-to-heat technologies while considering changing operational conditions and variable energy demand and supply. A multi-objective optimization framework is employed to balance conflicting targets, such as minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, operational costs, and ensuring system reliability. The in-house tool application considering a case study based on a food industry process demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed approach in significantly reducing carbon footprints as well as operational and investment costs compared to traditional low-fidelity methods incorporated in commercial tools. The optimized concept achieved through the in-house tool has shown 8.5% less emission (EMI) compared to the optimized designs of the commercial tool. It shows 36% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the existing facility of the case study. The optimized energy concept can be implemented in the existing facility with a payback period of 4.6 years. The outcomes of the selected use-case highlight the importance of coordinated design and operation decisions in achieving optimal performance and sustainability in industrial energy systems. It also shows an ideal workflow for making optimized design decisions to decarbonize industry with novel energy concepts. Thus, this work provides a robust foundation for future research and practical applications aimed at accelerating the transition towards low-carbon industrial processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decarbonizing the glass industry requires alternative melting technology, as current industrial melting practices rely heavily on fossil fuels. Hydrogen has been proposed as an alternative to carbon‐based fuels, but the ensuing consequences on the mechanical behavior of the glass remain to be clarified. A critical distinction between hydrogen and carbon‐based fuels is the increased generation of water during combustion, which raises the equilibrium solubility of water in the melt and alters the behavior of the resulting glass. A series of five silicate glasses with 80% silica and variable [Na2O]/([H2O] + [Na2O]) ratios were simulated using molecular dynamics to elucidate the effects of water on fracture. Several fracture toughness calculation methods were used in combination with atomistic fracture simulations to examine the effects of hydroxyl content on fracture behavior. This study reveals that the crack propagation pathway is a key metric to understanding fracture toughness. Notably, the fracture propagation path favors hydrogen sites over sodium sites, offering a possible explanation of the experimentally observed effects of water on fracture properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Greater efficiency in the consumption of energy in the transport sector would mean lower emissions of CO2 and other gases and particles, which contribute to climate change. One of the ways to reduce the impact that the transport sector has on climate change turns out to be the achievement of services with a more efficient consumption of energy per passenger‐km or t‐km transported. Energy consumption has been an ongoing concern in the railway sector practically since its inception. There has always been an interest in finding solutions to reduce it, such as improvements in rolling stock design and the use of regenerative braking which will not be analyzed in this article, and optimal train movement, operation and timetabling, and infrastructure design. This article analyses the existing methodologies that allow the improvement of energy efficiency, and we verified that the developed studies focus more on LRT and Metro systems, and existing infrastructures, namely Urban Rail Transit, characterized by high levels of traffic and energy consumption. However, regarding the analysis of conventional railway infrastructure characteristics and design from an energy efficiency point of view, we found that less has been done relative to strategies to improve energy efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the role of energy in growth and development, the consumption of fossil fuel rises the global temperature, which poses a significant threat to the full decarbonization agenda of the global community. This study examines the impact of environmental tax and renewable energy on the full decarbonization of 25 developing countries with data from 1993 to 2019. The study used DCCE and CS-ARDL estimators, and the results revealed that environmental tax and renewable energy promote full decarbonization. Moreover, the evidence indicates the validity of the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) in developing countries, with a turning point at 2.56 in the DCCE to 1.44 in the CS-ARDL. Also, the findings confirmed financial development's role in enhancing renewable energy's impact on full decarbonization in developing countries. Therefore, of this study confirmed the 'double dividend' hypothesis that environmental tax policy can mitigate CO2 emissions, correct ecological externalities, and generate revenue. Policymakers in developing countries should strive to undertake tax reform to achieve efficient tax system. In addition, they should formulate and enforce effective environmental tax policies to accelerate full decarbonization and achieve SDGs. Also, massive investment should be channeled to renewable energy projects to provide affordable and cleaner energy, to minimize the consumption of fossil fuel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

California's electric grid has established and allowed for a large swathe of land with varying topography, geology, and biota to become inhabited and maintained at a level of modernization that most Americans have become accustomed to in the 21st century. However, while the residents, commerce, and overall populations of both have increased and progressed, the energy infrastructure that supports them has not. Instead, in some instances, the transmission infrastructure has ignited fires in the state's wildlands – some with devastating effects – the point sources of power production have aged and not necessarily kept up with a shifting climate or demanded load, and new sources of power generation and energy storage have not penetrated the energy marketplace fast enough or to great effect. This paper delineates just a portion of some of California's trials in the coming years as it transitions to a decarbonized electric grid and light-duty fleet. Most calculations were carried out using data prior to December 31, 2019 and generically treats succeeding data (2020–2021) as unrepresentative of former years or unlikely to be accurate of the years succeeding the Corona Virus Outbreak of 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to climate change and the urgent need to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of industrial processes, decarbonizing energy‐intensive industries is highly important. In Europe, emissions trading is the main regulatory instrument providing incentives to replace conventional production facilities with low‐carbon alternatives. Using the example of primary steelmaking, this study aims to evaluate the impacts of product benchmark revisions on the transformation of integrated steel mills. To this end, an optimization model for the strategic planning of economically favorable transformation pathways is developed. The model is combined with a prospective assessment of economic and climate impacts from steelmaking processes. By applying the model to a case study from Germany, legislative conditions in which steel manufacturers are encouraged to transform their production infrastructure are identified. Based on current regulations on product benchmarks for steelmaking, investments into low‐carbon technologies are slowed down until allocations of emissions allowances expire. However, benchmark revisions have the potential to speed up transformation plans significantly. In the analyzed scenarios, the greenhouse gas emissions of primary steelmaking between 2024 and 2034 decreased by up to 15%. These results are further strengthened by sensitivity analyses on the main market influences. Hence, this study provides policy recommendations on favorable revisions of product benchmarks for primary steelmaking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amid mushrooming net-zero commitments and pledges made by states and non-state entities, a gap remains between those pledges, and the action needed in order to stay within the temperature goals of the Paris Agreement. In response, scholars and policymakers have started to examine physical, technological, economic, and policy pathways to net‐zero emissions across different sectors. This article examines the existing legislation and litigation for a net-zero world in four jurisdictions: Germany, the United States, Brazil, and China. We propose a taxonomy for identifying and comparing existing legal mechanisms to reach net-zero across these jurisdictions. We identify and analyze different legislative and regulatory mechanisms that incorporate net-zero mandates and three net-zero litigation strategies in these countries. These jurisdictions provide a useful snapshot of the variety of legal mechanisms currently being used by, or imposed on, large emitting jurisdictions and entities. We then consider the critical ways in which climate law can contribute to, or hinder, emissions reductions in line with net-zero targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the greenhouse gases (GHG) emission between 1991 and 2021 of both the entire Italian dairy cattle sector (ITA_POP) and the registered Holstein Friesian population only (HF). An attributional cradle-to-farm gate Life Cycle Assessment was performed, including emissions (methane–CH4, nitrous oxide–N2O, carbon dioxide–CO2) due to animal and manure management, feed production, and farm materials. The functional units were 1 year and 1 kg of fat- and protein-corrected milk. We applied 100-year global warming potential (GWP) metric. For 2011–2021 period, we also applied GWP star (GWP*). Data originated from Italian GHG accounting and official milk recording systems. From 1991 to 2021, annual GHG emission of ITA_POP decreased from 20.4 ± 2.7 to 15.5 ± 2.1 Mt CO2e and emission intensity (EI) from 1.90 ± 0.25 to 1.17 ± 0.16 kg CO2e/kg corrected milk. The share of officially registered HF cows in ITA_POP increased from 36 to 70%. The annual emission of HF increased by 32% to 12.2 ± 1.8 Mt CO2e, but its EI decreased by 34% to 1.09 ± 0.16 kg CO2e/kg corrected milk. The accumulation in GHGs in 2011–2021 period due to ITA_POP (100-year GWP) continuously increased. When considering the short lifetime of CH4 (GWP*), the rate of increase in the same years was quite lower, with a flat pattern in the last 5 years. The decrease in CH4 emission is compensating the accumulation of N2O and CO2 from fossil fuels, highlighting the need of considering GHGs lifetime in the estimation of dairy cow sector emissions. HIGHLIGHTS: Italian dairy cow sector has succeeded in reducing GHG emission per unit of milk. Cumulative GHG continuously increased in 2011–2021 period if calculated with conventional 100-y GWP, but not with GWP*. Further improvements achievable focussing on individual GHGs (CH4, N2O, CO2) and their lifetime in the atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]