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Vehicle fleets are considered an important context for the deployment of innovations such as electric vehicles and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. Fleet vehicles constitute a significant share of vehicle registrations, yet little research has been conducted into how the make-up of the changing fleet market could influence upscaling of innovations. This paper presents an in-depth study of the fleet market in the United Kingdom and assesses synergies between V2G and vehicle fleets by analysing socio-technical trends. The approach taken allows for analysing the role of users and markets in upscaling socio-technical transitions. The paper provides a system-level account of the fleet market, and shows how changing user characteristics, the rise of telematics, Low Emission Zones and changes to business operations and labour relations present specific drivers and challenges for V2G. It is concluded that user-related changes in the market environment are highly influential in shaping the upscaling trajectory of sustainable innovations such as V2G. • User-centered analysis of market dynamics in socio-technical transition. • Fleets are a potential domain for the application of V2G. • Fleet market trends have contradictory implications for V2G uptake. • Changes in fleet management practices and vehicle use patterns are influential. • Labour relations with drivers could impact V2G potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper was inspired to answer the fundamental question on whether electric battery powered ships can ultimately be a promising solution for future maritime environmental protection. The overall process was designed to demystify the holistic environmental benefits and harms of 14 primary energy sources for electricity production in consideration of the national-specific cases of 33 countries. A series of comparative analyses between the diesel as the reference fuel and the battery-electric propulsions were conducted with 27 short-route ferries engaged in Scotland coastal areas. A key message obtained from the analysis results were that the impact of battery application was far from the zero-emission shipping in the lifecycle perspective. Moreover, the same vessels were found to yield completely different environmental performances, depending on how those countries produce electricity. In some Asian countries heavily relying on fossil-based power generation, the environmental impact of battery operation was estimated far greater than that of diesel operation in the UK. Case studies were, then, scaled-up to about 5500 marine vessels presently engaged in international voyages. In general, consistent results were found. Research findings distinctively demonstrated the misguidance of current maritime policies for encouraging battery-powered ships and identified that these shortcomings would stem from the limitations of current practices of maritime environmental assessment. Lastly, it strongly suggested to the marine industry and stakeholders that the environmental protection from shipping activities would be not only a matter of ships but also a matter of how the national power grid develops. • Lifecycle environmental benefits/harms of hybrid ships were demystified. • Underlying parameters for ship environmental performance were identified. • Corrective actions were proposed for proper use of electric ship propulsion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public procurement is increasingly recognised as a tool to promote more sustainable forms of food production. As the negative consequences of the food system on ecological and human health have become more apparent, public institutions have come under increasing pressure to purchase food in a way that promotes environmental, social and economic benefits. This is reflected by a growing number of initiatives that link the provision of healthy food with support for more environmentally benign food production. This paper explores the potential impact of public procurement on the business strategies of small food producers. In doing so, it seeks to widen the understanding of how demand can support more sustainable forms of food production and supply. The study is based on a series of qualitative interviews with producers and caterers who have participated in the Food For Life programme based in the UK. The impact of the programme framework is explored with respondents and thematically analysed to distil a series of key impact types and contextual variables. The paper discusses the potential for steering business change within food businesses using public procurement strategies. The unique nature of food systems and the complex relationships with human and ecological health lead to a distinct set of challenges and opportunities for advocates of sustainable procurement. Image 1 • An exploratory study on the impact of sustainable food demand on firms. • Interviews were thematically analysed to elucidate key impacts and contextual factors. • The relationship between contextual factors and impacts is schematically presented. • The potential for public procurement to stimulate sustainable food production is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The UK electricity grid is expected to supply a growing electricity demand and also to cope with electricity generation variability as the country pursues a low-carbon future. Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs) could offer a solution to meet this demand thanks to their estimated low capital costs, low operational risk, and promise of reliably dispatchable low-carbon electricity. In the published literature, there is little emphasis placed on estimating or modelling the future impact of MSRs on electricity grids. Previous modelling efforts were limited to quantifying the value of renewable energy sources, energy storage and carbon capture technologies. To date, no study has assessed or modelled MSRs as a competing power generation source for meeting decarbonization targets. Given this gap, the main objective of this paper is to explore the cost benefits for policy makers, consumers, and investors when MSRs are deployed between 2020 and 2050 for electricity generation in the UK. This paper presents results from electricity systems optimization (ESO) modelling of the costs associated with the deployment of 1350 MW e MSRs, from 2025 onwards to 2050, and compares this against a UK grid with no MSR deployment. Results illustrate a minimum economic benefit of £1.25 billion for every reactor installed over this time period. Additionally, an investment benefit occurs for a fleet of these reactors which have a combined net present value (NPV) of £22 billion in 2050 with a payback period of 23 years if electricity is sold competitively to consumers at a price of £60/MWh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The UK consumes almost 5% of world's wine production, drinking 12.9 million hectolitres annually or 21 l per capita per year. Australian wines are most popular with the UK consumer, accounting for around 17% of total take-home purchases. This paper focuses on Australian red wine and presents the life cycle environmental impacts of its consumption in the UK. The results indicate that a 0.75 l bottle of wine requires, for example, 21 MJ of primary energy, 363 l of water and generates 1.25 kg of CO2 eq. For the annual consumption of Australian red wine, this translates to around 3.5 PJ of energy, 600 million hectolitres of water and 210,000 t CO2 eq. Viticulture and wine distribution are the main hot spots contributing over 70% to the environmental impacts considered. Shipping in bulk rather than bottled wine would reduce the global warming potential (GWP) by 13%, equivalent to 27,000 t CO2 eq. annually. For every 10% increase in recycled glass content in bottles, the GWP would be reduced by 2% or 3600 t CO2 eq./yr; the savings in other environmental impacts are smaller (0.7–1.5%). A 10% decrease in bottle weight would reduce the impacts by 3–7%; for the GWP, the saving would be 4% or 7000 t CO2 eq./yr. If only 10% of the wine was packaged in cartons instead of glass bottles, the GWP savings would be 5% or 10,600 t CO2 eq./yr; the other impacts would also be reduced by 2–7%. These measures could together save at least 48,000 t CO2 eq./yr, almost a quarter of the current emissions from the UK consumption of Australian red wine. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Tourism holds a significant share in the global carbon footprint. Transportation to the destination is recognized as the primary contributor, although its contribution can be less dominant in the context of short-haul travel. Previous studies do not provide a critical comparative analysis of how changes in travel behaviour, notably modal shift, affect the total carbon impacts from short-haul holidays; nor do they explore the relative contribution of the specific elements of the holiday product or account for global variations when measuring those contributions. This paper presents a carbon impact assessment case study of short-haul tourism to Southern France by British tourists. It applies an advanced, Life Cycle Assessment-based, method of evaluation, the hybrid DEFRA-LCA (Ecoinvent) approach, which is capable of appraising both the direct and the embodied ‘indirect’ greenhouse gas emissions. The principal finding supports the traditional view that transportation generates the largest carbon footprint and that the most significant carbon savings can be achieved by switching from air and car-based travel to train and coach. However, the study also indicates that if tourists stay at the destination longer, and travel to the destination by train or coach, the destination-based elements of the holiday can make a large carbon contribution and even outweigh the share of the transit element. The Life Cycle Assessment also shows that the ‘indirect’ greenhouse gas emissions from tourism in Southern France are significant, thus emphasizing the importance of their incorporation into future carbon impact appraisals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Road transportation being a leading source of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, is now resulting a move away from the traditional internal combustion engine to electric vehicles (EVs), currently powered by battery technology. This paper examines end-of-first-life applications of EVs batteries in a low-carbon circular economy following global transition to EVs and net zero economy. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key actors within the EV industry in the UK. Drawing on Stahel closed-loop solutions, a qualitative analysis of the transcripts of these interviews revealed the need for business models towards coherent low-carbon circular economy of the value chains. This paper reveals a whole range of issues relating to: extraction of battery critical raw minerals (e.g. ethical concerns); manufacturing (e.g. lack of policy frameworks addressing value chain emissions); distribution and sale (e.g. gaps in circular built economy strategy and transition plan); use (e.g. lack of a functioning market for end-of-first-life batteries) as well as research and innovation (e.g. lack of infrastructure to deal with end-of-first-life cells). The views on policy weaknesses testifies to the need for close-loop business model to not only focus on recycling battery raw minerals or repurposing battery for energy storage applications. But, should consider many aspects of an innovative policy strategy and product's global value chain, accounting for: equitable jobs, critical raw minerals dependency, circularity governance and industry standards, protecting the natural environment, tackling emissions and ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns. The study highlights establishing key trade-offs within policy goals considering the global value chains, as well as, harnessing synergies between social, economic and environmental goals. The paper concludes that a low-carbon close-loop business model should integrate the triple objectives of making positive impact on people, planet and profit, and developed on the basis of legislation, collaboration, research, investment, and incentives guiding to achieve the Global Goals. • A circular economy business model for transitioning to electric vehicles in a low carbon economy is examined. • Principles of circular economy has extraction, manufacturing, distribution & sale, use, recycling & innovation dimensions. • Raw minerals dependency, value chain ethical issues, transition plan and lack of legislative frameworks are major concerns. • Stakeholders hold views on weaknesses on lack of business model addressing value chain circular and low-carbon solutions. • Imperative to recognise nexus and circular thinking in policies and future studies towards sustainable futures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aims to understand the impacts of the spatial and temporal diffusion of Anaerobic Digestion (AD) on the Water Energy Food (WEF) nexus and to quantify the associated environmental, social and economic benefits. Contemporary tight carbon reduction targets urge the need to deploy renewable energy technologies however due to interdependencies across the WEF nexus, various technologies are beneficial for some but not all sectors. This paper quantifies the impacts of future possible AD technology diffusion choices on the environment, society and economy. This can aid decision makers to identify the potential consequences of various AD alternatives within the next three decades. The study considers an integrated WEF nexus approach and accounts for the interdependencies within the nexus. This was done by developing an Agent-Based Model (ABM) and simulating the relations between the main players within the nexus, thus examining the upscaling of AD diffusion and its consequences for water consumption, energy production, transportation, landfill use, food waste processing and digestate generation. Three future WEF nexus scenarios, that reflect potential alternatives of society and technology in Great Britain up to 2050, were utilised by the ABM implementation to test the sensitivity of AD diffusion choices. These scenarios describe possible changes to lifestyle, governance, technologies, climate, and social structures. Accounting for the uncertainty associated with such future simulations, the Monte Carlo method was employed to estimate the potential variations in scenario outputs. Results suggest that decentralisation results in the largest carbon reduction, but can incur more costs. Centralisation consumes 35% more water but produces 37% more energy (biogas). The paper has visualised the scenario outputs graphically to highlight the consequences of neglecting the inter-relationships between environmental, social and economic aspects of AD. • The future diffusion of AD plants in GB was simulated using an Agent-Based model. • Future energy scenarios were utilised to reflect different lifestyles and economies. • Intersectoral complex dependencies in the water-energy-food nexus were considered. • Impacts of AD implementation on environment, society and economy were quantified. • Trade-offs were assessed between the impacts of centralised & decentralised scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conserving the planet for the next generation has come to be an essential component of sustainable development, with "future generations" being the term most frequently included when citing definitions of sustainable development. However, beyond words, does a concern for a future beyond the current generation have any bearing on actions taken in the present? This paper examines the concept of generativity (concern for the future) as a component of sustainable development and specifically, in relation to green consumption. A sub-set of data gathered through a survey which sought to explore constructs for a model for green consumer behaviour has been used to reflect particularly, on the relationship between generativity and green behaviour. Further, the data has been deployed to explore comparisons on the basis of gender and age but also differences between respondents in the UK and Portugal. The results show a positive correlation between generativity and green consumption values, as well as between generativity and buying behaviour, and generativity and prosocial attitude. The data does not support gender difference in terms of levels of concern, or differences between the two countries but age, is shown to be an influencing factor. The paper concludes that the concept of generativity merits further exploration. Image 1 • Generativity (concern for the future) is positively correlated with and green consumption values and buying behaviour. • Generativity is positively correlated with prosocial attitude. • Generativity is not influenced by gender. • There were no differences in generativity between the sample in the UK and Portugal. • There are differences in levels of generativity between those with children and those without. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food processing sector has a considerable environmental impact, due to large volumes of food and packaging waste. Eco-innovations present an important opportunity to reduce this impact. Yet, initial insights suggest that new technologies face considerable challenges to their adoption. The eco-innovation adoption literature has overlooked the food processing sector. The purpose of this paper is to examine the barriers inhibiting the adoption of waste reducing eco-innovations in the food processing sector. We present four detailed case studies of new technologies at different stages of adoption in the UK and Netherlands. The findings reveal ten barriers to the adoption of waste reducing technologies in the food processing sector. The barriers identified include concerns over the influence of technologies on the product's characteristics, its retailing, and a perceived lack of consumer demand. These barriers arise from the powerful influence of retailers within the food supply chain, the influence of technologies on in-store point of sale displays, and the need for distribution trials. We conclude that the adoption of new technologies requires simultaneous acceptance by both food processor and retailers. The paper provides recommendations for policy makers and innovation managers to increase the adoption and diffusion of waste reducing technologies in the food processing sector, as well as implications for future research. • Interconnected barriers are identified across key members of the food supply chain. • Specific characteristics of waste reducing eco-technologies impede their adoption. • Retailers role in the adoption of waste reducing technologies is uncovered. • Policy action is required to promote adoption at each level of the supply chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life cycle analyses of novel food packaging materials do not often account for the environmental impact of a change in shelf-life, which can result in misleading comparisons. This paper established a methodology for comparative life cycle analyses, whereby the direct effects of the lidding films were compared whilst ensuring the indirect effects of the wasted food portion remained stable. Global warming potential and non-renewable energy use were analysed for a conventional (low-density polyethylene/ethylene vinyl alcohol) versus a biodegradable (polyhydroxyalkanoate/butenediol vinyl alcohol) multilayer lidding film for modified atmosphere packaging of minced beef. Two methodologies were investigated. The first (metric one) changed the barrier layer thickness in the biodegradable film to match the carbon dioxide transmission rate with that of a conventional film. The second (metric two) changed the barrier layer thickness to match a carbon dioxide transmission rate predicted by a mathematical model to ensure the same shelf-life as the conventional film. Using metric two over metric one resulted in 1) a thinner film 2) 2.3 times lower global warming potential. When using sugar beet as the biopolymer feedstock and the current UK disposal system, the biodegradable film had 135% higher global warming potential than the conventional film. By incorporating waste products and better farming practices, the global warming potential of the biodegradable film could be up to 92% lower than that of the conventional film. This work demonstrates how shelf-life can be incorporated into life cycle analyses and the importance of accounting for it, in particular when evaluating biodegradables which often have higher permeabilities. • Impacts of biodegradable barrier layer, butenediol vinyl alcohol analysed. • Functional unit based on predicted shelf-life according to the lidding film used. • Waste incorporated in production of biodegradable film lowers GWP. • UK should adopt industrial composting or anaerobic digestion for biodegradables. • Barrier properties of lidding films should be accounted for in food packaging LCAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Meeting near future UK greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions targets will require all parts of the UK economy to contribute, and in particular significant changes in business practices are required at the local level. From review it was found that there is a lack of detailed business accounting and reporting of GHG emissions at the local level, especially concerning supply chain impacts and small and medium sized enterprises. This paper presents a framework model to generate detailed benchmark estimates of GHGs (both on site and supply chain related) for individual businesses and all businesses of a sector within an area. The model makes use of available economic and environmental data, and, with similar datasets existing in other parts of the world, such models may be used elsewhere. The framework model is applied to an empirical case study. Estimates from such a framework can be used in a step-by-step approach to move businesses and local areas towards improved accounting, reporting and sustainability (including procurement). The model makes use of two different accounting perspectives: the production perspective (on site GHGs) and the provision perspective (supply chain GHGs attributable to purchased inputs of a business or sectors production). The new provision perspective and its consequences are explored and explained. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Previous research suggests that, despite a desire to introduce environmental concerns into New Product Design, many companies in the northwest of England have not done so. In order to understand more about why companies do or do not take on sustainability methodologies, an entirely new and rigorous approach was taken. This paper therefore presents the results of a questionnaire investigating the up-take of Eco/Sustainable Design in manufacturing companies in Sweden – a country that might be considered more environmentally progressive than the UK – and discusses them alongside the results of an identical questionnaire in the UK. The results are presented in the context of risk and risk aversion/management – in particular the risk associated with taking on board Design for Sustainability as a design method or a company strategy. It is found that there is no clear “winner” in sustainability between UK and Swedish engineering companies; there is encouraging news in both countries, with a desire to practice sustainability, but some that is not so good with the number of companies that actually implement relevant methodologies. It is apparent that there are still hindrances and perceived risks preventing companies taking sustainability fully on board, despite the recognition that sustainability is a “good thing”; the importance of the implementation of sustainability has not yet been fully grasped by industry and by those with the responsibility required to effect any changes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Trajectories of service innovations emanating from manufacturing sectors have been of particular interest to those wishing to improve resource productivity and promote sustainable development. Research has focused on product service systems (PSSs), which are a category of service innovations deliberately designed to offer superior environmental performance. This paper draws on research which explored whether trajectories of PSS can be induced on new UK housing developments to satisfy household demand and prevent household waste. The research was undertaken with a UK speculative house-builder and facilities management service providers from its supplier network. Qualitative data were collected via interviews and focus groups to enable rich accounts of the range of factors in these firms'' selection environments which affect receptivity to PSS production to be developed. These were compared with factors affecting receptivity to PSS production identified in a study of UK manufacturers. The results show that in contrast to the manufacturing study, clear drivers for PSS delivery on new housing developments are absent in external selection environments of participating firms and uncertainty associated with the potential of PSS concepts to satisfy household demand inhibits development of requisite competence for PSS delivery within these. Thus further research is needed to explore new PSS supply arrangements involving a range of household service providers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: One route to reducing electronic waste, increasing product reuse, is dependent on the quality and functionality of discarded electronic goods (core), about which little is known or understood. This paper reports on the collection, testing, and classification of 189 discarded microwave ovens. We find that most had only minor, if any, issues and almost all were suitable for reuse and/or remanufacturing. It was also documented, in face-to-face interviews with 82 persons discarding microwaves, that consumers have little knowledge of disposal routes for end-of-life products other than public recycling facilities, and that a large proportion of consumers discarding microwaves intended to buy a similar product, calling into question the widely-held belief that e-waste is always driven by a desire for the latest technology. Based on these results, it is not unreasonable to argue that, for microwave ovens, the major impediments to reuse are neither the quality of discarded products nor the cost of electrical spare parts, but rather current product design and the incipiency of the market for second hand items. Using this information, minor changes in design that would significantly improve re-usability are proposed to OEMs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Managing for sustainability is considered to be critical to the development of corporate sustainability, and is fundamentally about strategic organisational development and change. This paper presents the key findings from four case studies undertaken to investigate how the leaders in corporate sustainability in the UK precast concrete industry were managing for sustainability. It was found that by adopting a compliance approach, characterised by the development of management systems and continuous performance improvement cultures, the four companies studied were engaged in the activities and developing the capabilities necessary to manage for sustainability, and had progressed naturally to the ‘efficiency’ phase of corporate sustainability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The accumulations of waste plastics and municipal solid wastes from the resident groups and industrial companies have been causing serious environmental issues in the UK, due to difficulties in logistics, sorting, and reuse. In this sense, this paper is stimulated to develop novel approaches to convert some wastes into eco-friendly infrastructural materials, which provides a new way of waste reduction and reuse and extending the service life of asphalt pavement. This study aims to characterise the healing performance of waste-derived bitumen before and after pressure ageing vessel (PAV) ageing based on the crack length. One waste-derived bitumen was fabricated by blending the bio-oil pyrolysed from the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (5 wt%) with a control bitumen (X70) using a high shear mixer at a speed of 150 revolutions per minute (RPM) for 30 min at 150 °C under nitrogen atmosphere. A second waste-derived bitumen was fabricated using the low-density polyethene (LDPE) and mixed with the control bitumen at a concentration of 6 wt% at a speed of 900RPM for 90 min at 180 °C under nitrogen atmosphere. Crack length-based healing index and Ramberg-Osgood model were employed to characterise the healing rate and healing capability of the bitumen, respectively. Material properties (e.g., relaxation modulus and surface energy) of the bitumen used in the healing models were calibrated by linear amplitude sweep test (10 Hz and 20 °C), frequency sweep test (10 Hz, 10–70 °C), and time sweep fatigue-healing test (10 Hz and 20 °C) at a controlled strain level of 5% with different rest durations. Advancing contact angles used in the healing models of the bitumen were measured by a sessile drop tensiometer based on the tilting cradle method. Results show that the bio-oil productively promotes the healing potential and capability of the unaged bitumen, and the LDPE slightly strengthens them. The PAV ageing process evaporates most of the modifier bio-oil; hence, the PAV-aged bio-oil modified bitumen does not show better healing performance than that of the PAV-aged control bitumen. The PAV-aged LDPE modified bitumen has much better healing performance than those of the PAV-aged control bitumen and the PAV-aged bio-oil modified bitumen. The short-term healing rate and healing potential dominate the healing behaviours of the bitumen. The unaged bio-oil modified bitumen heals the fastest (having the highest short-term healing rate) and most (having the highest healing potential), followed by the unaged LDPE modified bitumen, and the unaged control bitumen heals the least and slowest. The PAV-aged LDPE modified bitumen heals the fastest and most, followed by the PAV-aged bio-oil modified bitumen and the PAV-aged control bitumen. The fundamental reason for LDPE's enhancement to bitumen's healing is that the LDPE increased the deformation recovery ability of the bitumen, leading to a higher wetting rate of the cracked surfaces and thus a higher short-term healing rate. However, the LDPE in bitumen cannot accelerate the molecular diffusion to increase the intrinsic healing or the long-term healing rate. • Two waste materials were firstly used to enhance healing ability of bitumen. • Healing properties of bitumen was characterised based on crack length. • Healing rate and potential was modelled using Ramberg-Osgood Equation. • Bio-oil productively promotes healing performance of unaged bitumen. • LDPE strengthens healing performances of unaged and PAV-aged bitumen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increasing concerns about climate change, calls for the adoption of net-zero carbon emissions targets are rising. Achieving this target necessitates a radical decarbonisation of the electricity system, including the shut-down of currently operating high-carbon energy infrastructure. In the light of this background, we develop a novel system dynamics energy-economy model to explore the long-term macroeconomic effects, and changes in the power system costs of different low-carbon electricity transition scenarios. Using the UK as a case study, our simulations demonstrate that there is no win-win policy solution. We argue that while the early retirement of a certain amount of brown energy infrastructure is required for the UK to achieve its emissions target, the amount should be determined with care in order to manage the electricity system costs and prices. By using an implicit carbon price, we find that certain trajectories lead to lower power system costs while achieving the net-zero target. • This paper presents a novel energy-economy system dynamics model. • The economic implications of different low-carbon energy transitions are evaluated. • Various low-carbon energy transitions are shown to be cost-effective. • Very rapid energy transitions lead to a substantial increase in energy system costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses a novel digital output using mathematical computation of life cycle sustainability assessment for design decisions on systemic holistic sustainability of technical systems. The computational social life cycle assessment (SLCA) combining the supply chain import data and social hotspot database for interacting countries in entire supply chain indicates that self-generation in electricity sector gives savings in community infrastructure (68%), governance (53%), human rights (50%), labour rights & decent work (24%), and health & safety (8%), SLCA categories compared to electricity import scenarios in the UK. The life cycle assessment shows the carbon-efficient energy systems for net zero greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in increasing order of environmental impacts: hydroelectric, wind, biomass, geothermal and solar (4–76 gCO 2 eq./kWh). The technical and life cycle costing models show that within bioenergy, biomass combined heat and power systems give greater feasibility than microbial fuel cells with a levelized cost of electricity of 0.026 and 0.07 Euro/kWh. TESARREC™ (Trademark: UK00003321198), a novel web-based open-source digital output integrates intrinsic physicochemical, design, operating and systemic characteristics to model and analyse technical systems for sustainability and benchmark/standardise GHG of renewable, biomass and carbon dioxide capture and sequestration strategies for policy directives. [Display omitted] • Advances in mathematical computing and digitalisation for LCSA have been discussed. • Physicochemical-design-operating-systemic influences on technical and LCSA models. • Novel digital platform for a sustainable world: TESARREC™ Trademark: UK00003321198. • Hydroelectric-wind-biomass-geothermal-solar systems analysed for net zero GHG. • Biomass CHP and microbial fuel cell systems technoeconomic models discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a life cycle assessment (LCA) for the industrial Light Emitting Diode (LED) luminaire by using Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) methodology. The assessment is carried out for raw material, assembly, distribution, use and end of life (EoL) stages, and all upstream emissions are considered. The analysis results show that the electricity consumption in use stage is the significant contributor for the overall impacts. Environmental benefits are identified from the EoL scenario analysis due to the adopted WEEE treatments. Electricity mix for the UK and other European countries are modelled for the comparison study that shows the use of renewable resources for electricity generation has lower overall impacts from the PEF view, but the impact towards land use that is caused by using biomass energy source for electricity production is noticeable, which is barely mentioned in the existing LCA studies. This research has made the following original contributions: 1) it is the first study examining the LED luminaire environmental performance by using the PEF methodology; 2) the electricity mix modelling for the European countries in the comparison study reveals the possible trade-off between using renewable/non-renewable resources for the electricity generation, which would be beneficial for further policy development for lighting and energy sectors; 3) the availability demonstration of the current PEF database for luminaires, and the reported analysis results would assist future similar LCA studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the impacts of energy policies for supporting low-carbon infrastructure on the economic and financial performance of energy storage when coupled with a generator. The study sets in the UK context and the unit of analysis is the generator connected with energy storage. An analytical method is derived to assess the impact of policy schemes for low-carbon infrastructure on energy storage. The case study of energy storage systems coupled with a Small Modular nuclear Reactor (SMR) is quantitatively investigated in three scenarios: 1. SMR-only (the baseline); 2. SMR with thermal energy storage; and 3. SMR with Lithium-ion battery. For the strike price at 100 £/MWh, the net present value for scenarios 2 and 3 reduces from 562 M£ to 379 M£ and from 376 M£ to -1144 M£, respectively, when the energy storage capacity increases from 100 MWh to 1 GWh. As the net present value reduces with increased energy storage capacity (when coupled with generation), this work shows that low-carbon incentives are, unintentionally, barriers to the development of energy storage due to: (A) current generator incentives give a favourable return on investment and energy storage would diminish it; (B) energy storage cannot participate in generator only incentives. • There is a growing need to deploy energy storage infrastructures. • There is no incentive scheme specifically developed for energy storage. • Low-carbon power incentive schemes can unintendedly limit energy storage deployment. • The unintended effect is analysed analytically and numerically. • Policy recommendations are suggested to address this critical issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the relationship between environmental management and SMEs performance. The study adopts General Methods of Moments (GMM) on a sample of 201 quoted Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) on the United Kingdom (UK) Alternative Investment Market (AIM) from 2011 to 2016. Consistent with our prediction based on contradictory results of existing studies, the study documents that corporate investment channelled through efficient environmental management translates into superior SME performance. In particular, we find a non-monotonic (inverted U-shaped) relationship between environmental management and financial performance, which suggests that SMEs have an optimal environmental management level that maximises their performance. We find the predictability to be stronger among medium and larger firms, where both ROA and Tobin's q revealed a significant relationship with environmental performance. The implication of the findings and recommendations are discussed. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the impacts of climate change become increasingly visible across the globe, awareness of the need for cleaner energy and demand reduction is growing. Energy literacy offers a strong potential for explaining and predicting energy-related behaviours, yet research and policies focused on this topic remain limited. In this study, energy literacy was measured in a sample of 2806 university students in the United Kingdom and China, in addition to their wider environmental attitudes using the New Ecological Paradigm scale. Findings indicate that energy literacy was relatively high overall, but there were significant differences between the knowledge, attitudes and behavioural intentions of participants in the two countries. Whilst the UK respondents rated themselves significantly more highly on perceived knowledge of energy issues, Chinese respondents provided significantly more correct answers in a knowledge test. UK respondents demonstrated more positive attitudes towards energy conservation than those from China, and were more likely to report energy-saving behaviours. However, Chinese respondents exhibited higher levels of trust in government and businesses to take action on energy issues. This paper provides a novel insight into cultural differences which may be crucial to policy and practice, and evidences the potential benefits of utilising a combination of educational and structural change to support transition to a cleaner, low-energy society. Image 1 • Significant differences in energy literacy arose in 1806 students in UK and China. • Chinese respondents demonstrated more knowledge about energy than UK respondents. • UK respondents demonstrated more positive attitudes and energy saving behaviours. • Cultural context, including trust in government impacts on energy-saving behaviours. • Combining educational and structural change will aid transition to a cleaner world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant leakage is the second-highest source of carbon emissions across UK supermarket retailers and a major concern for commercial organisations. Recent stringent UN and EU regulations promoting lower GWP refrigerants have been ratified to tackle the high carbon footprint of current refrigerants. This paper introduces a data-driven modelling framework for optimal investment strategies supporting the food retail industry to transition from hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigeration systems to lower GWP systems by 2030, in line with EU legislation. Representative data from a UK food retailer is applied in a mixed integer linear model, making simultaneous investment decisions across the property estate. The model considers refrigeration-system age, capacity, refrigerant type, leakage and past performance relative to peer systems in the rest of the estate. This study proposes two possible actions for high GWP HFC refrigeration systems: a) complying with legislation by retrofitting with an HFO blend (e.g. R449-A) or b) installing a new natural refrigerant system (e.g. R744). Findings indicate that a standard (i.e. business-as-usual) investment level of £6 m/yr drives a retrofitting strategy enabling significant reduction in annual carbon emissions of 71% by the end of 2030 (against the 2018 baseline), along with meeting regulatory compliance. The strategy is also highly effective at reducing emissions in the short term as total emissions during the 12-year programme are 59% lower than would have been experienced if the HFC emissions continued unabated. However, this spending level leaves the business at significant risk of refrigeration system failures as necessary investments in new systems are delayed resulting in an ageing, poorly performing estate. The model is further tested under different budget and policy scenarios and the financial, environmental, and business-risk implications are analysed. For example, under a more aggressive investment approach of £50 m/yr carbon reductions are at 93% by the end of 2030, whilst also ensuring compliance with the legislative cut-off four years early in 2026 and substantially enhancing the reliability of the refrigeration systems in the portfolio. Alternatively, when emissions are minimised instead of cost with a £50 m/yr investment level, 99% decarbonisation is achieved by 2030. Overall, the study highlights the trade-offs between capital investment and system resilience requiring a careful balance of priorities and the need to have up to date information so decision makers can reliably drive a successful strategy towards more sustainable operation of refrigeration systems. Image 1 • Novel optimisation model to reduce F-gas emissions in the food retail industry. • Retrofitting R-449A or R-744 systems considered to comply with regulations. • HFC tax does not significantly curtail emissions as current policy is effective. • Under current investment levels (£6 m/yr) a 71% CO 2e reduction is achieved by 2030. • If investments are frontloaded (£50 m/yr) a 99% reduction is feasible by 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article has reviewed the international research from the 20th century to the first half of 2019 on the terms "efficiency" and "local government". For this purpose, a bibliometric and a cluster analysis by fractional accounting have been carried out using two of the most important databases: Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus. The research found and studied 1222 documents from the WoS Core Collection and 2264 from Scopus. The results show a continuous increase in the number of published articles and citations during the whole period. It also found that the U.S., U.K, and China are the most productive countries with a predominance of North American and Asian organizations supporting and fostering researches. The principal contribution of this article is the analysis of keywords from 2011 to the first half of 2019. The trend shows a convergence on the concepts of efficiency and local government over the last few years, which are related to sustainability and natural environment. Future research in this field should address the relationship between efficiency in the allocation of local resources and the environmental sustainability of municipalities. • A bibliometric review of local government efficiency was conducted. • The paper identifies publications that serve as a guide to the local policymakers. • A recent worldwide trend in this field is based on environment. • A pending subject of local government efficiency is a geopolitical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Paris Agreement on climate change has calls for urgent, radical, and transformative actions in mitigation and adaptation, particularly in terms of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emission. There are many terms used to describe the process of reducing GHGs, including decarbonization, low carbon development (LCD) or low carbon transition (LCT). The conceptualization of these terms remains puzzling and there has not been any consensus to explain the meaning and their interrelationship. Clearer definition and conceptual boundaries are necessary to improve the coherence of overarching practices to cut CO 2 emission. The paper aims to review key concepts related to climate change mitigation related to the reduction of CO 2 and efforts toward net-zero emission in the academic literature, by (1) examining progress of the literature over time, (2) identifying geographical locus and sectoral focus of the literature, (3) determining the interrelationships between the key concepts. We use a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method for data collection by selecting peer-reviewed literature from Scopus and analyzing the data with content analysis and bibliometric analysis. The findings are, firstly, the publications of the literature are influenced by global and national climate change policies and the interest of scholars affiliated to institutions from major emitter countries. Therefore, the literature is mostly originating from countries that emit the most CO 2 while also implement mitigations to reduce CO 2 emission. Secondly, China is the country where studies are mostly focused and also where the authors are affiliated/located. However, publications from the United Kingdom are cited the most. Thirdly, there are three clusters of literature found, namely that LCD and LCT are the terms used to identify visions for climate mitigation, while decarbonization is the actions and processes to achieve either LCD or LCT (as the visions). • The dynamic of climate change policies influence the literature trend. • The literature is mostly originating from major CO 2 emitter. • Low carbon development and low carbon transition are visional terms. • Decarbonization indicates the processes of decoupling CO 2 to achieve the visions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geopolymer is identified as a type of promising alternative binder to Portland cement due to its sustainability and excellent properties. This paper investigated the influence of two types of curing regimes (i.e. oven and microwave radiation curing) on the compressive strengths of geopolymer samples, facilitated by scanning electron microscope analysis, which was adopted in the interpretation of strength results. Besides, a comparative life cycle assessment based on Europe was conducted between geopolymer and Portland cement samples with details. Results indicate that it took less time to prepare precast geopolymer concrete with desired strengths using microwave radiation than oven curing. Meanwhile, the source of PFA would greatly influence the strength development of geopolymer samples. Finally, the preparations of geopolymer samples presents lower environmental burdens and CO 2 emissions than Portland cement samples, however, the quality and availability of PFA and GGBS in UK led to a re-evaluation of the environmental impacts and strengths of the precast geopolymer concrete in the near future. Image 1 • Oven and microwave radiation curing were used in precast geopolymer concrete preparation. • It took less time to prepare precast geopolymer concrete with desired strengths using microwave radiation than oven curing. • Regulated PFA with a quality control should be used in geopolymer preparation. • In UK's near future, the quality and availability of precursors led to a re-assessment of the environmental impacts and strengths of precast geopolymer concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a qualitative exploration of domestic energy consumption practices in the UK social housing sector, and perceived effectiveness of varying intervention techniques in motivating energy reductions. The study was conducted using a sample of N = 20 social housing residents, who had recently taken part in a 'serious game' energy behaviour change intervention trial, thus making them uniquely positioned to provide such insight and feedback on these issues. A series of one-on-one open-ended interview sessions was conducted in residents' homes at the end of the intervention period, using an open-ended discussion framework. Thematic analysis revealed that residents were highly engaged with the topic of energy saving, but that several psychological barriers existed which prevented many residents from changing them behaviour. In line with the Theory of Planned Behaviour and the Norm Activation Model, these barriers included lack of awareness of the issue, action inertia, and perceived lack of behavioural control. Some residents did make savings following the trial, and our interviews provide useful insight into their decision making and behaviour change processes, including evidence for cross-contextual spillover effects, where residents made savings in other areas. However overall, the serious gaming approach did not inspire engagement from the target population, who frequently mentioned lack of time and/or desire to use overly 'technical' solutions for energy savings. Recommendations for ongoing intervention development are discussed, including preference for tailored non-technical visualisation tools and less time intensive versions of the game, and implications for future energy policy development are considered. • A qualitative exploration of domestic energy use practices in UK social housing. • Thematic analysis revealed determinants of energy use in line with TPB and NAM. • Barriers to behaviour change found to include action inertia and lack of awareness. • Digital technology solutions as used here may not be optimal for this target group. • Future interventions for this group should rely more on social influence processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is motivated by a research gap in the systemic implications that wider adoption of multiple micro-generation technologies may bring to interdependent infrastructures. It explores how the adoption of battery electric vehicles, solar photovoltaics, solar thermal water heating, rain water harvesting, grey water recycling, and waste heat recovery affect system-level consumption of water, gas, gasoline, electricity, CO 2 emissions, and electricity generation cost. The simulations based on a new agent-based model show that grey water recycling and rain water harvesting reduce water and solar thermal water heating and waste heat recovery reduce gas demand respectively. A wider adoption of battery electric vehicle and solar photovoltaics have no effect while a reduction in the number of gasoline cars and gas users leads to higher electricity consumption, CO 2 emissions, and electricity generation cost. The following policy implications are identified: grey water recycling and rain water harvesting should be actively promoted; improvements in the design and use of gas boilers may be better options than solar thermal water heating and waste heat recovery; battery electric vehicle should be adopted together with solar photovoltaics; solar photovoltaics should not be supported with feed-in-tariffs. If the last two implications are not addressed, then a more complementary electricity generation mix is necessary otherwise policies that promote replacement of gasoline cars by battery electric vehicles may result in negative systemic impacts. • Paper explores the effects a range of MGTs may bring on interdependent UK infrastructures. • An agent-based model was developed, tested, and simulations conducted. • Five implications for UK policy have been identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the paper is to assess the feasibility of using solid waste incineration (MSWI) bottom ash (BA) as cement-stabilized macadam (CSM) aggregate. CSM was prepared by replacing natural limestone aggregate with MSWI BA in different proportions (0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, and 30%). The physical properties, chemical properties, and micro-morphology of MSWI BA were studied to explore the mechanism of MSWI BA aggregate in CSM. The mechanical properties (unconfined compressive strength, cleavage strength, compressive resilience modulus), drying shrinkage, freezing resistance, and leaching behavior of CSM were tested. The results showed that MSWI BA had low density, low strength, high water absorption, high porosity, hydraulicity, and cementitious activity. Substitution of MSWI BA for natural limestone reduced the unconfined compressive strength, the cleavage strength, and the compression modulus of resilience of CSM, but these parameters still met the requirements of the specification. The CSM containing MSWI BA had higher cumulative water loss rate and smaller average dry shrinkage coefficient than traditional CSM. Adding 0–20% MSWI BA reduced the cumulative dry shrinkage strain of CSM. The residual strength ratio of CSM increased slightly at first and then decreased rapidly, and the CSM containing 0–30% MSWI BA met the freezing resistance requirements of semi-rigid base materials. The leaching concentration of heavy metals of CSM curing 7 days with 30% MSWI BA was still far below the limit of Chinese standard GB 5085.3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In England, there is a longstanding and increasing undersupply of both affordable and open-market housing. Around three quarters of all new homes in the UK are currently built speculatively by the developer-led private housing sector. However, demand for self-build housing is growing. Concurrently, there is also a need to address the sustainability of homes, which represent 29% of final energy consumption in the UK. There is a clear imperative to develop business models within the construction sector in which both social and environmental sustainability are inherent. The aim of this paper is to explore professional and expert opinions on the suitability of group self-build housing as a development model for zero carbon homes. A Policy Delphi study was conducted both at a national level in England and at a regional level in South West England. In this iterative, non-contact research method, online questionnaires were used to gather data from the same panellists over three rounds. Panellists were drawn from seven groups: public sector, specialist groups/experts, housing associations, housing developers, designers, contractors, and financial institutions. The findings highlight that the panellists believe that group self-build is well suited as a development model for the delivery of zero carbon homes and sustainable communities. The advantages identified include: energy efficiency, affordability, quality, innovation, and sustainable communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most European countries have committed to ambitious emissions reduction goals. Energy generation in particular is responsible for more than 30% of global emissions, where significant focus has been placed on renewable energy generation, including biomass. On the one hand, there are countries, like the UK, where the biomass stock is insufficient to meet the demand; on the other hand, there are countries, like Brazil, where the stock significantly exceeds the demand. To promote a natural symbiosis, it is necessary to take on the challenge of transporting biomass through long distances in an environmentally and economically efficient manner. This paper aims to assess the efficiency of alternative pathways of international biomass supply-chains. The alternatives involve different biomass origin regions, transportation modes, export ports and processing technologies, including torrefaction. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) has been used for the first time to assess the efficiency of the alternative biomass supply chain pathways in a Latin American context, considering multiple-criteria relating to economic and environmental performance simultaneously, such as the biomass delivered cost, the environmental impact and the fossil energy consumption. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis was performed to analyse the robustness of the results under uncertainty in parameter values. The DEA approach presented can assist the process of planning biomass sourcing and improve decision-making under multiple decision criteria. The results can support medium- and long-term strategic decisions for decision- and policy-makers. • Efficiency assessment of biomass supply chain pathways between Brazil and the UK. • 56 alternative pathways considered with different supply chain structure. • Data Envelopment Analysis used for multi-criteria efficiency assessment. • Results can support decision and policy making. • Trade-offs between different criteria identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the concept of social value in construction has seen increasing policy, practice and research interest. In part, this interest stems from growing recognition that construction projects, and especially megaprojects, can create huge social impacts. Although many studies have focussed on defining and developing measures for quantifying social value, qualitative meanings and interpretations of these measures are relatively under-examined. In this paper, two instrumental case studies of infrastructure megaprojects in nuclear decommissioning are analysed to investigate the process of meaning-making of social value. Lessons are drawn from taking a more qualitative, dynamic and processual approach. The findings highlight the limitations of reductionism in existing quantitative measures and emphasise the importance of time and place in understanding the ever-changing idea (and ideals) of delivering social value. Social value is thus a condition of, and conditioned by, ongoing negotiations throughout the lifecycle. Adding to social value research that is dominated by quantitative studies, the nuances highlighted in the case studies show the need to move beyond static measures at a point in time to consider the ongoing and never-ceasing process of transforming social value in construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]