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In this paper, we explore the possibility of connecting decentralized biogas plants via a pipeline network to terminals that upgrade biogas into biomethane. We present a mixed-integer linear program that forms subnetworks of such plants, decides on suitable terminal locations, and establishes pipeline connections to maximize profit. We apply this model to a real-world scenario in Northern Germany. The results show a much higher total profit for the optimized network compared to the benchmark solutions where each plant upgrades biogas into biomethane on its own. Therefore, plants can increase their profitability by collaborating with other (neighboring) plants. However, the collaboration requires a fair profit-sharing model as network participation is not individually profitable for all plants, especially small ones. • We explore network designs for a profitable upgrading of biogas into biomethane. • We introduce a Mixed Integer Programming model to determine optimal plant networks. • A real-world application for biogas plants in Northern Germany is presented. • Results reveal higher profits for the networks compared to stand-alone upgrading. • Fair profit-sharing mechanisms are important for plant collaborations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing the efficiency of production is the basis for decoupling economic growth from resource consumption. In agriculture, more efficient use of natural resources is at the heart of sustainable intensification. However, technical improvements do not directly translate into resource savings because producers and consumers adapt their behaviour to such improvements, often resulting in a rebound effect, where part or all of the potential resource savings are offset. In extreme cases, increases in efficiency may even result in higher, instead of lower, resource consumption (the Jevons paradox). Rebound effects are particularly complex in agricultural land and soil management, where multiple resources are used simultaneously and efficiency gains aim to lower the need for farmland, water, energy, nutrients, pesticides, and greenhouse gas emissions. In this context, quantification of rebound effects is a prerequisite for generating realistic scenarios of global food provision and for advancing the debate on land sparing versus land sharing. However, studies that provide an overview of rebound effects related to the resources used in agriculture or guidelines for assessing potential rebound effects from future innovations are lacking. This paper contributes to closing this gap by reviewing the current state of knowledge and developing a framework for a structured appraisal of rebound effects. As a test case, the proposed framework is applied to emerging technologies and practices in agricultural soil management in Germany. The literature review revealed substantial evidence of rebound effects or even Jevons' paradox with regard to efficiency increases in land productivity and irrigation water use. By contrast, there were few studies addressing rebound effects from efficiency increases in fertilizer use, pesticide application, agricultural energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions. While rebound effects are by definition caused by behavioural adaptations of humans, in agriculture also natural adaptations occur, such as resistance of pests to certain pesticides. Future studies should consider extending the definition of rebound effects to such natural adaptations. The test case revealed the potential for direct and indirect economic rebound effects of a number of emerging technologies and practices, such as improved irrigation technologies, which increase water productivity and may thereby contribute to increases in irrigated areas and total water use. The results of this study indicated that rebound effects must be assessed to achieve realistic estimates of resource savings from efficiency improvements and to enable informed policy choices. The framework developed in this paper is the first to facilitate such assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the emergence of 1,072 solar initiatives (268 associations and 804 cooperatives operating photovoltaic systems) from 2006 to 2018 in Germany. The study draws on organizational ecology theory to identify factors that influence the likelihood of establishing a solar initiative by investigating the impacts of two opposing effects: legitimation effects and competition effects. We show that the density of medium-scale photovoltaic installations in a district negatively affects the likelihood of establishing a solar initiative, suggesting that competitive dynamics prevail between different market entrants, dampening the emergence of solar initiatives. By contrast, we find that the founding of a solar initiative in a district has a positive effect on the probability of founding other solar initiatives in the same district, confirming legitimacy effects. Further, we show that solar initiatives are more likely to be founded in rural areas, especially in densifying rural areas. • Citizens collectively install PV systems where there are fewer similar systems present. • Initiatives are more likely to emerge in districts with existing initiatives. • Initiatives emerge primarily in densified rural areas. • Enhancing organizational rather than technological knowledge is important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a multi-step framework to design flexible power-to-methane processes is presented. The approach considers all crucial parts of the power-to-methane process, including the renewable energy source. The aim is to provide a design that allows for feasible operation under the fluctuating conditions induced by the renewable energy source at all times. For each part of the process, the operating windows are analyzed and optimized under different site-specific constraints, and recommendations for actions regarding the technical implementations are provided. The impact of the carbon dioxide source is scrutinized, and subsequent scheduling optimization is performed to determine necessary storage capacities. The framework is demonstrated on two carbon dioxide availability scenarios where the renewable energy source is a wind turbine coupled to a polymer exchange membrane electrolyzer that produces hydrogen, which is then converted to methane in a fixed-bed reactor. The results show that the feasible operation of the system strongly depends on the site-specific conditions. In particular, the availability of carbon dioxide impacts the flexibility of the methanation reactor. When the stochiometric ratio between hydrogen and carbon dioxide cannot be sustained, the operating window of the reactor deteriorates significantly. However, it is shown that appropriate integration and scheduling of storage capacities debottlenecks the reactor and enables the utilization of all electricity generated by the wind turbine. • A framework for the design of flexible power-to-methane systems is introduced. • Optimization approaches for each step of the framework are provided. • A dynamic optimization approach for storage integration is given. • The impact of the carbon dioxide provision flexibility is investigated. • The framework is tested in a case study with an onshore wind turbine in Germany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Our society faces a carbon dilemma whereby there is an imbalance between our need for carbon and the dark side of its utilization. Unlike electricity, heat and mobility sectors where a transition towards renewable energy sources is possible, the chemical industry has no alternative to carbon sources for its production. This paper carried out a case analysis of the German chemical industry. The objective is to identify challenges posed by the human dimension for its carbon transition from a dependence on imported carbon resources towards cleaner and sustainable production using domestic primary and secondary carbon feedstock alternatives. Findings from a representative survey study carried out in Germany in October 2017 showed widespread public misconceptions regarding what are carbon sources and a lack of mental associations regarding the use of domestic biomass, coal, waste and CO 2 as feedstock alternatives for chemical production. Furthermore, significant regional difference in support/resistance for coal-to-chemicals as a carbon transition route is also observed. This paper represents a first effort to bridge the gap between transition and circular economy research to facilitate the early identification of human-related barriers to a carbon transition for the chemical industry. Highlights • A carbon transition for the chemical industry from a dependence on imported carbon resources to using domestic carbon feedstock alternatives. • Case analysis of the German chemical industry. • Overview of biomass, coal, waste and CO 2 as domestic chemical feedstock alternatives and policy drivers and obstacles for different options. • Public awareness, perception and acceptance of domestic carbon resources as feedstock alternatives for the chemical industry. • Early identification of human-related barriers to a carbon transition for the chemical industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic food contributes to environmental sustainability and is becoming increasingly popular worldwide, although it is generally more expensive than conventionally produced food. Rather different sets of values and motivations are driving consumers' purchase intentions in mature compared with emerging organic food markets. To inquire about similarities and differences in consumers' motives our qualitative, comparative study employs a series of in-depth interviews with organic-food-store clients in Germany and Thailand from February to May 2021. The analysis applied means-end chain (MEC) theory to map the mental decision-making processes. Results were interpreted and compared referring to the Schwartz Theory of Basic Human Value (STV). The findings show a rather similar values base of both samples in terms of the relevance of 'quality of personal life' and 'personal well-being'. Substantial differences emerged in the Germans high emphasis on the values 'health of environment' and 'social responsibility' which were absent in Thailand, while Thais put great importance on the 'responsibility for family'. Focusing on the five most important values in each country, we conclude a more personal-focused value system in Thailand, respectively a rather social-focused one in Germany. This paper contributes to the literature as it is one of the few qualitative studies on organic food purchase intention using MEC and STV and the first one conducted in Thailand. The findings provide valuable insights for producers and marketers to better address German and Thai consumers' needs to influence their purchase intention towards organic food consumption. • Germans have a more social-focused value system when buying organics. • Thais have a more personal-focused value system when buying organics. • Similar values base: 'quality of personal life' and 'personal well-being'. • Germans emphasize 'health of environment' and 'social responsibility'. • Thais prioritize 'responsibility for family'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finding alternative phosphorus sources is imperative to address negative environmental and societal impacts caused by its current inefficient use. However, the direct use of phosphorus in sewage sludge in agriculture is controversial. This paper uses Denmark, Germany, and Spain as case examples to assess relevant legislation and boundary conditions in agricultural production to identify opportunities and barriers for the utilisation of recycled phosphorus from wastewater in agriculture on a regional level. Only five out of 22 phosphorus recycling technologies considered were in full compliance with legislation across all three countries, and these five were then assessed for their potential to supply phosphorus to major crops within countries. We considered the application of technologies across four scenarios: 1) struvite; 2) vivianite as iron supply; 3) vivianite for calcium phosphate precipitation; and 4) ashes for calcium phosphate precipitation. The most suitable scenario identified for Denmark was vivianite for calcium phosphate precipitation, whereas in Spain vivianite as iron supply was identified as most suitable, and ashes for calcium phosphate in Germany. We found that in 2018, the potential phosphorus supply from recycling technologies was on average 0.38, 0.29 and 0.05 kg of phosphorus per capita for Danish, German, and Spanish regions. These quantities could meet 9.1, 21.7, and 10.0 percent of the phosphorus required to produce major cereals in each country (specifically wheat, barley, and rye). Given current legal constraints, wastewater treatment plant connections and agronomic context, the potential contribution of recycled phosphorus is non-negligible in many sub-national regions. Still, to access the full potential of phosphorus circularity clear product specifications and transport and logistics among regions will be necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low carbon transitions have been predominantly analysed using quantitative methods, mostly building on present and forecasted data of social metabolism. This paper addresses both the economic and social dimensions of low carbon emissions by analysing the presence of socio-environmental conflicts in Germany. These conflicts appear to be a consequence of unsustainable policies targeting firms' planning and behaviour, mainly based on neoclassical economic thinking and various stakeholder groups that oppose carbon intensive businesses. By applying a Delphi Method with 18 experts, the authors analyse 117 socio-environmental conflicts (e.g. derived from extractive activity, energy production, and infrastructure projects) in Germany. Most of these conflicts include the struggle of various society groups to achieve a low carbon economy but also a more equitable society. The analyses presented in this paper shows that Germany provides both the best and the worse of achieving low carbon paths: a significant investment into renewable energy, but also a strong dependency on lignite which supplies the most polluting power stations of Europe. By addressing the problem from a historical perspective, the authors demonstrate how carbon intensive extractive activity has been one of the major causes for environmental activism and protest in both socialist and capitalist societies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tackling societal challenges relating to sustainability requires both an understanding of the underlying complex socio-ecological systems and participation of scientists as well as relevant stakeholders, such as practice experts, decision makers, and citizens. This paper introduces the Decision Theatre Triangle, a method which combines empirical information, mathematical modelling and simulation, and a format for dialogue between scientists and stakeholders. While it builds on previous Decision Theatre work, the new structuring into these three elements emphasizes what is needed for setting up a Decision Theatre for a given challenge. Based on experience with a specific example – sustainable mobility in Germany – it is argued that agent-based models are particularly suitable for Decision Theatres and that the method is useful not only for decision support but also for science communication and co-creation of a deeper knowledge of the system under discussion. As a step towards facilitating a broader use of the Decision Theatre Triangle method, the paper then sketches research needs for each of its three elements, with a focus on mathematical modelling and simulation. [Display omitted] • The Decision Theatre Triangle combines data, models, and stakeholder dialogues. • It enables decision support, science communication and co-production of research. • Agent-based modelling shows benefits in the Decision Theatre Triangle method. • Setting up Decision Theatre Triangles for societal challenges needs model structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data centers are estimated to have the fastest growing carbon footprint from across the whole information and communication technology (ICT) sector. Evaluating the performance of data centers in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability is becoming an increasingly important matter for organizations and governments (e.g., for regulation or reputation purposes). It nonetheless remains difficult to achieve such evaluation, as data centers imply to take into consideration a wide range of dimensions and stakeholders. Even though a wide range of sustainability performance indicators exist in the literature, there is still a lack of frameworks to help data center stakeholders (spanning from data center owners, governmental regulators to engineers/field operators) to evaluate and understand how a data center performs in terms of sustainable development/behavior. Our research work proposes such a framework, whose originality lies in the combination of state-of-the-art sustainability metrics with the biomimicry commandments of eco-mature system, which enables holistic sustainability assessment of data centres. From a theoretical perspective, the proposed model is designed based on a benefit-cost analysis using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique. This approach allows data center stakeholders for specifying their own preferences and/or expertise in the comparison process, whose practicability is demonstrated in this paper considering three data center candidates, which are respectively located in France, Germany and Sweden. • A new model for comparing data center sustainability performance is proposed. • The model makes use of state-of-the-art sustainability metrics together with biomimicry lessons. • The model is designed based on a benefit-cost approach using the AHP technique. • A comparison study is carried out with three distinct data center candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasingly efficient use of scarce resources is a central theme in the gradual transition towards a circular economy. Hazardous materials represent a category of resources that is often difficult—and potentially risky—to transport, store, or neutralize. As a result, hazardous materials are rarely included in closed material loops. The present paper analyzes HorsePower, a business concept centered around an innovative way of utilizing horse manure. Horse manure is generated in millions of tons in horse-rich countries such as the UK, Germany, and France. It is a hazardous resource, as it may spread diseases, and cannot be disposed of or landfilled economically. The content analysis of 21 semi-structured interviews carried out with different business actors participating in the HorsePower business network reveals that the success of HorsePower stems from its ability to combine the complementary capabilities and material needs of a relatively complex network of business actors including stables, sawmills, logistical service providers, and heat and power plants. Each actor receives added value; the benefits from participation are greater than the sacrifices of participation. Furthermore, the findings show that certain types of hazardous resources, when combined with resources produced by another actor, may be burned efficiently and safely in specific power plants, reducing the need for other types of fuel. The observations imply that novel approaches for effectively sharing ideas and resource needs across organizational boundaries are needed to facilitate the development of additional innovative CE business concepts, leveraging both actor-specific capabilities and intra-actor resource dependencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Affecting millions of Europeans, energy poverty is increasingly high on the political agenda. This paper compares space and water heating demand at household level in Germany and in the United Kingdom (UK) between 1991 and 2015. The elasticities of consumption of space and water heating with respect to price, income and heating degree days (HDD) are examined using non-parametric models. Domestic heating consumption is highly elastic with HDD in both countries and HDD elasticities are found to be higher in the UK. From a certain income threshold, heating demand decreases as income increases in German households whereas demand rises with higher incomes in the UK. High price elasticities indicate that UK households are very responsive to energy conservation measures, therefore implying that a pricing policy will effectively reduce heating consumption. However, in Germany, the impact of pricing policies is unclear. Thus, the most effective policy measure to decrease domestic heating consumption in Germany in the long-run should be one which targets improvements of building envelope performance levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With its strong ties to the European Union, Germany is well-positioned to assist many countries achieve sustainability goals. Therefore, the main objective of this paper is to examine how renewable energy intensity and renewable energy share improve environmental sustainability, the load capacity factor (LCF) in Germany from 1970 to 2018. To this end, the study uses the autoregressive distributed lag model, with the effects of the Kyoto Protocol included as a dummy variable. The study contributes to the literature by considering and testing for the first time the impact of renewables on the LCF in terms of intensity and share for Germany. The empirical results show that (i) economic growth lowers the LCF faster in the early stages of economic development than in later periods; therefore, the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis is valid in Germany. (ii) A 1% upsurge in renewable energy intensity has no statistically significant effect on the LCF, while a 1% rise in the share of renewables in the total energy mix increases LCF by 0.48%. (iii) A 1% rise in urbanization reduces the LCF by 6.52%. (iv) A 1% augment in human capital enhances the LCF by 3.49%. These outcomes suggest that the German government should use human capital development and increasing the share of renewable energy as policy instruments to achieve the sustainable development goals. [Display omitted] • The EKC hypothesis is valid for Germany. • Renewable energy intensity has no influence on the load capacity factor. • A higher renewable share in the energy mix is associated with an improvement in LCF. • Human capital plays a key role in solving environmental challenges. • The urbanization process has a devastating effect on the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To comply with the European Green Deal, decarbonization of transportation is decisive, especially a shift towards more sustainable transportation services is essential. Due to the tripartite nature of sustainability (society, environment and economy), multiple interrelated criteria are part of the sustainability assessment of transportation services. Discovering these interrelations between criteria to anticipate conflicts and integrate them appropriately into multi-criteria analysis is important for ranking urban transportation services. This paper presents a novel, two-folded methodology for assessing the sustainability of different urban transportation services. First, integrative structural modeling with polarity (ISM-P) is used for universally identifying sustainability criteria interrelationships and weighting them. Second, the Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluation (PROMETHEE) method is applied to a sustainability assessment of five specific urban transportation services (public and sharing). In conclusion, applying the methodology to the example of urban transportation services in the Ruhr region, the importance of public transportation as the most sustainable alternative is proven. • A holistic method for sustainability appraisal with dependent criteria is presented. • Urban transportation sustainability is assessed using 12 multi-dimensional criteria. • Demand and operating cost, as well as occupancy and operating cost diverge. • Combining multiple services increases overall transportation sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of climate change mitigation and sustainable energy infrastructure development, this paper focuses on the successful implementation of microgrids supplied by renewable energies in very diverse environments. Taking into account the challenges of reaching economies of scale, this paper is targeted at identifying success factors for microgrid implementation. The success factors are derived from case study analyses of microgrids implemented in the Global South and in communities of Germany. The goal of the research is to develop a mutual understanding of common values and so support future developments. The analysis covers the categories of ownership and participation; technology and system design; and policy and financing. The results show that microgrids in the Global South and renewable-energy-based communities in Germany share a number of success factors. The results demonstrate that a high share of ownership by users and the flexibility to expand the microgrid with user needs are particularly promising features. To verify the application of the identified success factors, the latter are applied to analyze the microgrid concept of “swarm electrification”. The analysis concludes that the concept of swarm electrification is consistent with the success factors, making it a high-potential approach for renewable-energy-based electrification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Facilitated by the environmental goals set by the government, wind turbines will be one of the main pillars of the future electricity production in Germany. In this paper, a comprehensive assessment of the future metallic raw material requirements for the development of the German wind energy sector was conducted, which is closely based on the current and future market conditions. Copper and dysprosium are identified as the most critical materials since they face the possibility of supply bottlenecks while being fundamental to the functionality of wind turbines. While the cumulative demand for copper may require 0.2% of the current known reserves, the demand for dysprosium may reach up to 0.6% of the reserve levels. Both metals clearly exceed the allocations for renewable energy technologies in Germany and would face strong competition from other sectors in securing raw materials. Although recycling is able to reduce the bottleneck risks, it does not completely mitigate them. More efforts are therefore required to improve material efficiency by means of alternative turbine designs, efficient production techniques, highly reliable components and material substitution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In recent years the need to consider the social dimension of sustainability within life cycle thinking has been increasing, catalysing the development of many different social life cycle assessment approaches (sLCA). The demand to assess potential social effects has been strengthened further, due to the implementation of national bioeconomy strategies. The RESPONSA framework (REgional SPecific cONtextualised Social life cycle Assessment) has been developed to assess the social effects associated with wood-based bioeconomy products from Germany (Siebert et al., 2018a; Siebert et al., 2018b). However, a characterisation approach, based on a context-specific benchmark which is easy to understand and interpret, is still missing. In general, characterisation approaches provide meaning to social indicator values (i.e., the inventory data). However, there is no standardised sLCA characterisation method yet. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to outline a characterisation method based on context-specific performance reference points (PRPs), which can effectively reflect the social conditions influencing the various organisations involved in producing a specified product. Such PRPs should also qualify whether the social indicator values collected from the organisations in the production system corresponds to a negative (worse than sector average) or positive performance (better than sector average). Therefore, we considered the classification of economic sector of the assessed organisation and in some cases the size of the organisation as factors influencing the potential social effects related to our particular context. These were then applied to define context-specific PRPs, which relate the social indicators calculated in the inventory phase, to those benchmarks, thus generating relative social performance scores for producers of a wood-based product in Germany. Highlights • A context-specific social LCIA approach was developed for assessing wood-based products from bioeconomy regions. • It considers the organisation's economic sector and size as factors influencing social performance. • Context-specific performance reference points were defined as benchmarks for the social indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The approach to integrate a fourth-party logistics service provider in the German Agricultural Bulk Logistics sector marks a new concept that aims at achieving sustainable development goals in transportation, i. e., by realising full truck loads. Against the background of steadily growing transport volumes, it is of paramount importance to develop sustainability concepts in order to mitigate the impacts on the environment. At present, the processes in the domain of the German Agricultural Bulk Logistics sector are characterised by bulk transports, small and medium sized actors and paper-based processes, which offers high potential for process optimizations in terms of sustainability. Therefore, the German Agricultural Bulk Logistics sector currently explores the approach of including a fourth-party logistics service provider into its transport processes in order to render these more sustainable and reduce costs. The objective of this paper is to present the general idea of implementing a fourth-party logistics service provider into a transportation (planning) process, to clarify the different functions of the participating parties and to introduce the modified transportation planning process as artefact. By means of a mixed method approach, we deliver qualitative insights based on semi-structured interviews and quantitative insights based on simulations. Effects and benefits of the approach are identified by means of a case study. Involving the fourth-party logistics service provider as well as the associated transportation planning process in the mentioned logistics area can lead to cost savings up to 38%, helps to reduce environmental pollution and mitigates social barriers in form of existential fears. The results demonstrate the applicability of the fourth-party logistics service provider approach in the sector and underline that this approach supports the achievement of sustainable development goals in transportation. Furthermore, we identify sustainable characteristics and present the mixed method approach which functions as an assessment framework for the fourth-party logistics service provider approach. Furthermore, by adopting the documented features of sustainable supply chain management in the fourth-party logistics service provider approach, an additional value is generated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating large amounts of electrolyzer capacities poses particular challenges for grid operators along the entire hydrogen value chain. This research examines how hydrogen production capacities that support the decarbonization of German industrial sectors impact the electricity transmission grid. The operation of electrolyzer capacities and the production of green hydrogen result in increased electricity demand that stresses the power grids beyond conventional electricity load levels. The question arises to what extent electrolyzer capacities cause additional grid congestion and how flexible operation of electrolyzers can contribute to efficient management of future power grids. A scenario framework is created, differing in the decarbonizing strategy of industry sectors, operation mode of electrolyzers, and penetration levels of electrolyzer installations for a market projection of the future European electricity system. Model-based research is performed by applying a fundamental electricity market and congestion management optimization model of the European electricity systems for the set of scenarios. Results of the model-based investigation highlight the importance of integrating electrolyzer capacities into congestion management practices, primarily if corresponding decarbonized industries feature a more distributed allocation throughout Germany, such as the chemical, paper and printing industries. The findings of this work provide policymakers, system operators, and regulators with meaningful insights for designing future congestion management frameworks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among renewable energy technologies, wind energy accounts for the highest share in gross electricity consumption in Germany. To keep this renewable share up, wind energy project have to combine technological aspects with environmental and societally aspects. The successful planning and implementation of a wind farm crucially depends on acceptance of citizens living in the vicinity of the site. Factors influencing acceptance of wind energy can be categorised into processrelated variables, personal characteristics, perceived side effects and technical and geographical issues. However, research is still missing on how and to what extend the identified factors have an influence on the acceptance and non-acceptance. This article identifies the relevant factors within each of these four categories by investigating which of these factors have an impact upon acceptance or non-acceptance of a project. This identification enables policy makers and operators to implement wind energy projects with a certain acceptance level by the society. The study is based on a German wide online-survey with about 1,400 participants. Using a multinomial logistic regression analysis, the results show that factors in all categories are relevant in driving citizens' active acceptance, ambivalence or active non-acceptance of wind energy. The paper reveals that in particular the factors fear of infrasound and the opportunity for participation plays an essential role in the categories perceived side effects and process-related variables. The fear of infrasound has the most significant negative influence on the acceptance. Also the participation level, alibi participation, displays significant negative effects on the acceptance. Furthermore, the results suggest that some of the most recent changes in the legal framework regulating new wind energy projects in Germany counteract acceptance according the findings of this study. In particular, results show that the distance between the place of residence and wind turbines has no significant influence on the acceptance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses research demands for a more critical empirical assessment of the innovation capacity of the decentralised, sub-national level. In Germany, the extensive involvement and contributions of new locally-rooted renewable energy initiatives have been one of the most striking features of the country's energy transition process. This study analyses the enabling conditions, current challenges and future prospects of decentralised experimentation in the German energy system. It finds that whereas the national support scheme has for a long period protected decentralised deployment of renewable energies by locally-rooted actors in the energy field, recent reforms of the scheme now threaten their further participation in the energy market. The paper observes that decentralised initiatives not only struggle to adjust to the new framework conditions. They have also not yet sufficiently addressed the new governance challenges arising from the fact that renewable energies have reached a stage of systemic importance for the whole power system, which requires decentralised initiatives to make their own efforts compatible with overall energy system transition needs. The study concludes that in order to remain an important innovator in the German energy transition, decentralised initiatives have to prove their ability to provide solutions to the systemic challenges of the energy transition process, such as horizontal and vertical multi-level coordination and decentralised contributions to the security of supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with possibilities of targeting energy efficiency potentials in German companies by delivering information and support within a cooperative management system “Learning Energy Efficiency Networks” (LEEN). Information deficits are pointed out as a relevant barrier to implementing energy efficiency measures in literature that can be aimed at by energy programmes such as audits. Our concept combines aspects of cooperation, shared experiences and moderated learning processes. The programme sought to go beyond the sole provision of consultation, by qualifying companies to decide and act on implementing energy efficiency measures by delivering the individual practical know-how they need. After having analysed evaluation data of several hundred companies, our results show that the participants were mainly motivated by the need for practical knowledge and specific information. The networks could well satisfy this need. The benefit for the participants in such delivered information was also reflected in the decreasing of the barrier of imperfect information and the programme enabled companies to make informed decisions on energy efficiency measures. But the gain of the programme was not solely restricted on an increase in knowledge: The majority of participants reported implementation of suggested measures, which would not have been implemented without the programme. Hence, LEEN can be indicated as a policy instrument enabling informed decisions on efficiency measures and supporting their implementation. Possibly tailoring the programme to different target groups and aiming at dismantling other barriers directly in addition to tackling information deficits could be undertaken to improve the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The iron and steel industry is a major industrial emitter of carbon dioxide globally and in Germany. If European and German climate targets were set as equal proportional reduction targets (referred to here as “flat” targets) among sectors, the German steel industry would have to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions from about 60 million metric tons currently to 28–34 million metric tons by 2030. Technical options to further reduce CO 2 that are based on existing production processes are limited. Hence, in the future, the CO 2 emissions of the steel industry could be reduced by alternative and new production processes and variations in production levels. This paper describes four production pathways from 2015 to 2035 that reveal the impact of constant, increasing and decreasing production levels as well as different production processes. The diffusion of energy-efficient technologies, the increase of renewables in the German electricity mix and the age and lifetime of blast furnaces are considered as well. The findings suggest that the German steel sector will only manage to achieve its European CO 2 emissions reduction target for 2030 if it strongly decreases its production levels. Furthermore, it is highly unlikely that the German steel sector will meet its German climate target regardless of the production pathway selected. The findings suggest that efforts to reduce CO 2 emissions in the steel industry should focus on two areas. First, alternative steelmaking processes need to be developed. Besides low-CO 2 process technologies, CO 2 -free processes should be considered as well. Direct reduced iron could be produced based on hydrogen and then fed into an electric arc furnace powered by electricity generated using CO 2 -free sources. Steel could also be produced using electrolysis based on CO 2 -free electricity. However, because these technologies might take decades to develop and introduce, there should be a second focus on incremental CO 2 reductions in the short to medium term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consumption of energy, water and detergents during the washing process of laundry in private households in Germany is remarkably high, with over 5.5 billion kWh of electricity and 380 million m 3 of water used every year. In this paper, the work of the research team Simulation Wäschepflege (“Laundry care simulation”) is presented. This includes insights into the research steps simulation, experimental work and physical textile testing. The main focus is on results from a consumer survey conducted to gain a better understanding of the education level of consumers with respect to laundry care. The washing behavior of 840 consumers in Germany was analyzed in 2012. Consumers were asked questions about themselves and their households, washing machines and practices, laundry sorting and ideas for future washing technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Risk management in Supply Chains has gained increasing attention over the last years. At the same time the pressure to consider social issues in global and interconnected supply chains has risen as well. These issues pose risk to supply chains since their occurrence may cause adverse stakeholder reaction through e.g. reputational losses. Despite the growing importance of supplier management as a key process within supply chains and the frequently articulated demand for a quantitative assessment of associated risks, such approaches are missing so far. Thus, the aim of this paper is to develop a model to efficiently estimate and assess social risks along global supply chains. For this purpose, Leontief’s Input Output model is combined with country risks and sector specific labour intensities. In addition, a fuzzy analytical hierarchy process is used to weigh the various considered social risks. Thereby the focus is on the upstream supply chain of actors in a supply chain. The approach is developed generally, opening the possibility of adaption to different types of input-output data bases and using different social risks discussed in social life cycle assessment. The fuzzy analytical hierarchy process facilitates the operational application in companies, where different people with differing preferences are involved, e.g. in procurement decisions. The model is applied to a case study of a German premium car manufacturer to demonstrate and validate the approach. It is shown, how – based on the developed model – the assessment of supply chains risks can be carried out. The approach allows an assessment of the supply chain as a whole, i.e. considering all upstream tiers, and of specific tiers. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis with regard to the obtained weights is conducted to verify the final aggregative risk values. The results show that there are huge differences in the social risks associated with different suppliers as well as different risk structures along the n-tier chain. This helps prioritizing any projects with the aim to improve the living and working conditions. In summary the model has a great benefit for practitioners in purchasing functions of focal companies and can be a helpful tool to support the efficient handling of social issues along supply chains. At the same time, its academic contributions lie in extending the life cycle sustainability analysis through a (multi-regional) socially extended input output model (SEIO) for social risk assessment in sustainable supply chain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Income and wages are among the determinant factors for the living standards and well-being of workers and thus carry a certain degree of relevance for social life cycle assessment (SLCA). Although, fair wages have often been mentioned as a quantitative measure of societal well-being, a defined impact category and quantitative characterization model is missing. Against this background, this paper aims at defining Fair wage as a new midpoint impact category for SLCA and suggests a characterization model to calculate fair wage potentials (FWPs) along a product's life cycle. The characterization model considers the actual wage paid at each process step in comparison to a minimum living wage. It furthermore relates wage to the effective working time and includes an inequality factor to account for income inequalities. The characterization model was tested in a cradle-to-gate case study on tomatoes produced in Germany to ensure its applicability. Results indicate potentially negative social impacts for workers employed in packaging and transport in Turkey and workers in manufacturing and packaging in China. In contrast, low impacts resulted for the Indian workers. No negative impacts are expected for the German and Dutch workers. The midpoint category Fair wage and the associated characterization model facilitate the operationalization of social impact assessment and provide companies with a practical method to quantify and evaluate their products' life cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy efficiency retrofits are often impeded by high perceived investment risks, long payback periods and a lack of skills. At the municipal level these issues are particularly pronounced as procuring, implementing, and managing retrofits can exceed existing municipal governance capacities. The diffusion of municipal LED street lighting as a replacement for conventional lighting serves as an example. This paper argues that technological (e.g. complexity and maturity), economic (e.g. selling services vs. products and financing costs), institutional (e.g. property situation and contracts) and competency barriers to retrofitting (e.g. lack of measurement capacity and qualified facilitators) translate into transaction costs. We develop a taxonomy of appropriate modes of municipal retrofitting governance based on transaction costs economics. The findings indicate that more market-based solutions, energy performance contracts in particular, can facilitate the procurement of innovative energy efficiency retrofitting solutions and associated investments among municipalities if neutral tenders, open-book accounting, municipal ownership and intermediary organisations allow municipalities to choose appropriate governance structures for particular technologies and retrofits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have analysed the environmental impact of vegan, vegetarian, or reduced meat diets. To date, literature has not evaluated how diet shifts affect environmental impacts by utilising portfolios which reflect personal nutrition preferences. Further, changing diets could alter the available land for non-food uses. This paper defines novel diet portfolios to outline alternative diet transitions and choices within the population and finds their effect on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, primary energy use, and land use in Germany. The aim of this study is to capture how these diet shifts affect land availability and increase the options for land-based climate change mitigation strategies. To do so, a contextualisation is made to compare the use of freed-up land for afforestation or biomethane production (with and without carbon capture and storage). The investigated diet portfolios lead to a reduction of the investigated impacts (GHG emissions: 7–67%; energy use: 5–46%; land use: 6–64%). Additionally, afforestation of freed-up land from each diet portfolio leads to further emission removals of 4–37%. In comparison, using the land to produce energy crops for biomethane production could lead to 2–23% further CO2-eq emission reductions when replacing fossil methane. If biomethane production is paired with carbon capture and storage, emission abatement is increased to 3–34%. This research indicates various short-term pathways to reduce GHG emissions with portfolio diet shifts. Utilising freed-up land for climate change mitigation strategies could prove essential to meet climate targets, but trade-offs with, e.g. biodiversity and ecosystem services exist and should be considered. • Diet portfolios are used to represent realistic population diets. • Diet portfolios include a mixture of 12 different diets. • GHG emissions decrease by 67% if the population adopts a Vegan diet. • Afforestation removes almost double the emissions compared to biomethane. • BECCS has similar GHG abatement to afforestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-efficiency buildings do not only save energy but also have multiple further impacts or co-benefits. These impacts are often excluded from the policy evaluation partly because their quantification and integration into cost-evaluations have challenges. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to develop a method to quantify labour productivity which is one of the key multiple impacts, as well as demonstrate the use of the method for calculating the productivity impacts of high-efficiency buildings. The paper uses Germany and Hungary as examples to conduct the quantifications. The result of the study shows that high-efficiency buildings can result in substantial health and labour productivity benefits. Concretely, a German worker can gain 5.2 productive days a year, while a Hungarian 2.2 days by avoiding sick days, after living in high-efficiency buildings. Similarly, through high-efficiency retrofits or high-efficiency new constructions in the tertiary building sector, German and Hungarian workers can gain 2.4 and 1 productive days a year, respectively, by avoiding sick days. The monetary equivalent of the total number of days gained would be as high as 337 million and 7 million Euros/year only from the residential building sector, and 398 million and 3 million Euro/year from the tertiary building sector for Germany and Hungary respectively. In addition to the productive workdays gain, by avoiding mental stress, the German and Hungarian workforce can gain 95 and 2 million Euro respectively in a year by improving work performance from working in high-efficiency tertiary buildings. Furthermore, this paper shows that along with more workdays and improved work performance, both Germany and Hungary can gain 1870 and 3849 healthy life years/million population which is equivalent to 277 and 134 million Euros per year respectively. The findings of this study would provide a strong motivation to the policymakers to design policies that promote construction and renovation of buildings at the passive-house or NZEB standards. The substantial productivity impacts of high-efficiency buildings can be an entry-point for the policymakers as any policy that promote high-efficiency buildings would fit in well in the multi-objective policy framework of the European Union. • High-efficiency buildings can obtain substantial health and productivity benefits. • A novel methodological approach to quantify labour productivity is demonstrated. • High-efficiency buildings result in more active workdays by minimizing health risk. • Substantial monetary gain can be obtained from the productivity benefits. • Findings can motivate policies to implement more high-efficiency buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a participatory process, in the course of which stakeholders identified an implementable strategy for promoting renewable electricity generation in a county in Germany. In the process, a new combination of participatory methods was applied, including two participatory modeling approaches that are based on causal networks and the participatory development of qualitative normative scenarios. After the participatory process the combination of methods was evaluated regarding the ability to 1) map out the diversity of stakeholders' perspectives, 2) to grasp the complexity of the problem, 3) to make uncertainty of complex problems transparent and 4) to support the identification of implementable strategies. Evaluation results showed that the applied methods were able to fulfill criteria 1) to 3). Specifically, application of actor modeling lead to fulfillment of criteria 1) and 2), while normative scenario generation addressed criterion 3). Criterion 4) was only partly fulfilled due to lack of credibility of the Bayesian Network modeling results. This was caused by the high uncertainty of the conditional probabilities elicited from experts, as there is little empirical system knowledge in particular about the potential effects of management options. On the other hand, stakeholders were not sufficiently involved in the construction and application of Bayesian Network models during the participatory process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social innovations for sustainable consumption have attracted policymakers' attention internationally as a possible means to reach sustainability and climate change goals. So far, most of the research on the emergence and potential of social innovations has been carried out in the Global North. Consequentially, some theoretical approaches and concepts have not been reviewed critically for their applicability in other contexts. This paper explores similarities and differences in the emergence and development process of social innovations for sustainable consumption in different cultural and geographical contexts to fill this gap. The objective is to enrich current concepts with more context-sensitive categories. On this account, the paper undertakes an explorative qualitative cross-country analysis of innovations for sustainable consumption in diverse sectors, using a sample of 87 cases collected by desk research in Brazil, Germany, and Iran. The analysis is based on a procedural perspective on innovation and refers to the three phases problematization, experimentation, and restabilization. The research shows that, in the problematization phase, the initiatives differ in taking up "globalized" challenges affecting most countries worldwide versus "locally emerged" ones, more connected to socio-economic, cultural, or political specifics. Experimentation with possible solutions differentiates between "imported" versus "locally" invented or appropriated context-specific approaches. Forms and degrees of restabilization depend mainly on framings for start-ups or non-governmental organizations and the local government's openness for innovative approaches. Based on the manifestation of these characteristics, the analyses result in four different qualitative types. The identified categories complement existing typologies, which so far neglect the geopolitical scope of the addressed problems and the tested solutions. Further empirical analyses in different countries will show whether the identified categories and types are helpful for a better understanding of the emergence and development of social innovations for sustainable consumption in different socio-economic, geopolitical, and cultural contexts. • The analytical framework combines the phenomena of sustainable consumption with the three phases of the innovation process. • Social innovations for sustainable consumption differ in their reaction to global or local challenges. • The solutions to global and local challenges can be imported, locally invented, or appropriated context-specific approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cement is a vital and commonly used construction material that requires large amounts of resources and the manufacture of which causes significant environmental impact. However, there are many different types of cement products, roughly ranging from traditional products with rather linear resource flows to more synergistic alternatives where industrial byproducts are utilized to a large extent. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies indicate the synergistic products are favorable from an environmental perspective. In co-operation with the global cement producing company CEMEX a research project has been carried out to contribute to a better understanding of the CO 2 performance of different ways of producing cement, and different cement products. The focus has been on Cluster West, which is a cement production cluster consisting of three plants in Germany. This paper is the first in a series of three, all of which are included in this special issue. It has two main aims. The first is to carry out an attributional LCA and compare three different cement products produced in both linear and synergistic production setups. This has been done for cradle to gate, focusing on CO 2 -eq emissions for Cluster West. The second aim of this part is to develop and test a simplified LCA model for this production cluster, with the intention to be able to compare different versions of the production system based on the information of a few parameters. The attributional LCA showed that cement products that contain a large proportion of byproducts, in this case, ground granulated blast furnace slag from the iron and steel industry, had the lowest unit emissions of CO 2 -eq. The difference between the lowest emission product (CEM III/B) and the highest (CEM I) was about 66% per tonne. A simplified LCA model based on six key performance indicators, instead of approximately 50 parameters for the attributional LCA, was established. It showed that Cluster West currently emits about 45% less CO 2 -eq per tonne of average product compared to 1997. The simplified LCA model can be used effectively to model future changes of both plants and products (which is further discussed in part II and part III). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are said to engage significantly less with corporate sustainability (CS) than their larger peers, because they are more reluctant to voluntarily engage in CS beyond regulatory thresholds. However, the mechanisms for changing the reluctance of SMEs with regard to CS are poorly understood. By drawing on self-determination and stakeholder theory from a social proximity perspective, this paper argues that stakeholders play a key role in influencing the controlled CS motivation of SMEs, and that SMEs will consider the claims of 'proximate' stakeholders as being more salient than 'distant' regulatory pressure, with the latter even potentially exercising a negative effect on SMEs' controlled CS motivation. The hypotheses are empirically tested using survey-based data from a sample of 344 privately-held SMEs operating in Germany and Austria. Results of the structural equation model confirm that 'proximate' employee and community pressure reduces controlled CS motivation and ultimately increases overall CS performance, whilst 'distant' regulatory pressure has precisely the opposite effect, ultimately reducing the CS performance of SMEs. These findings help to clarify that the close attachment of SMEs to their employees, and their deep embeddedness in the local community might be important catalysts with regard to CS improvements of SMEs, whilst regulatory pressure reduces their willingness to engage in CS, since this is often perceived as an unfair, demotivating, external imperative, which compromises their self-determination. Lastly, theoretical and managerial implications are provided. [Display omitted] • We analyze the influence of stakeholder pressure on corporate sustainability (CS). • Social proximity (close vs. distant) is a driver of stakeholder salience in SMEs. • Close employee and community pressure reduces controlled CS motivation. • Distant regulatory pressure increases controlled CS motivation. • Policy-makers should be cautious to apply regulatory pressure to spur CS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores and examines the distribution of environmental conflicts in Germany between 1985 and 2015, analysing the main causes for environmental conflicts related to privatisation and de-privatisation processes of urban services in 80 German cities. Using information collected via means of a Delphi Method based on focus groups with experts, we identify 90 cases of large-scale privatisation initiatives involving urban services occurred in different fields within the period considered. In 38 cases, privatisation was reversed due to initiatives undertaken by environmental justice organisations and other local grassroots groups promoting de-privatisation and re-municipalisation. In another 30 cases, privatisation was prevented as a result of these initiatives. Findings from our analysis indicate that de-privatisation initiatives and potential conflicts related to them are frequently driven by grassroots organisations promoting the provision of commons-based urban services. Our findings also suggest that privatising services in the energy, water supply and waste management sectors is likely to negatively affect the quality of service supply and increasing prices for urban residents. Image 1 • This paper explores ecological conflicts in Germany by using comparative analysis, statistics, and political ecology. • It investigates the main causes for conflicts related to privatisation and de-privatisation of urban services. • With a Delphi Method and focus groups with experts, we identify 90 cases of large-scale privatisation. • 38 initiatives of de-privatisation are identified, many driven by grassroots organizations reclaiming the concept of commons. • De-privatisation initiatives indicate a pendulum swing towards more socially controlled production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Within modern society, business organizations have a co-evolutionary relationship with society and ecosystems. Business organizations face highly diverse risks which they have to recognize, reflect on and handle. Climate change and its impacts clarify the need for managing overall system risk. Research has shown that climate vulnerability of business organizations in the German food industry is characterized by impacts that, in particular, affect business organizations indirectly. Indirect climate change caused impacts are complex, uncertain and characterized by a high degree of unpredictability. They focus on the derived social, ecological, economic and cultural consequences of the direct physical impacts from a worldwide perspective. This paper shows that introducing resilience thinking helps to identify strategic risks and opportunities coping with climate change caused impacts in sense of corporate climate adaptation strategies. Furthermore, it is shown from a strategic management perspective that mitigation is a profound element of long term adaptation strategies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents a proposal for a socio-psychological model which examines behavior for sustainability of individuals in higher education institutions (HEIs). The model aims to offer an alternative to the theory of social dilemmas, which is often proposed to explain unsustainable behavior. This model focuses on values and moral norms grounded within individuals, rather than on rational choice and self-interest. Key variables are universal values, awareness of consequences, ascription of responsibility, and personal intelligences. Results of this exploratory study show that not all of these key variables can be proven to be significant. However, ascription of responsibility, universal values, and personal intelligences seem to be the main factors which explain behavior for sustainability. This model is promising because it shows, in an explanatory manner, an increase in behavioral variance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents selected findings from a representative consumer survey of the German population exploring the image of timber as a construction material in general, and of timber frame houses in particular. The study found that prejudice regarding the deficiency of timber as a construction material and of timber frame houses, in terms of fire resistance, durability and stability, persists in the minds of consumers. On the other hand, timber as a construction material and timber frame houses have a positive association with well-being, aesthetics and eco-friendliness. Although these “soft” criteria are important factors in the choice of a certain building construction mode, these attributes are not sufficient, on their own, to trigger the choice of timber as a construction material. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Prosuming combines energy production and consumption on a decentralised level and can contribute to expanding renewable energies and integrating intermittent energy in a decarbonised energy system. This is only one way that conventional electricity consumers can become active agents in electricity systems, but the current literature lacks a comprehensive typology of this field. Furthermore, the literature on prosuming focuses on households and largely neglects organisations. Addressing these two gaps in the literature, this paper first suggests a typology of eight archetypes that encompass electricity production, demand management, and storage as dimensions. Second, it maps the decision-making process for prosuming infrastructure in small and medium-sized organisations based on 14 in-depth interviews from Germany. To better understand the implementation processes of prosuming infrastructure and to identify critical success factors for organisations to become active electricity agents, it outlines a comprehensive collection of motives, drivers and barriers that are shaped by the organisational context and play a significant role when organisations become energy prosumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic pollution has become a major global risk. The European Union (EU) obligates all member states to implement measures according to the waste management hierarchy, with the highest priority given to waste prevention and reuse. Currently, several policies tackle the plastic crisis, while effective measures for prevention are hardly introduced. Moreover, approaches are rarely tailored to individual consumers' needs for reducing plastic waste. This paper is the first to collect and structure stakeholder knowledge on measures that enable consumers to use plastic more sustainably and, in particular, to prevent the generation of new plastic waste. The present study explores perspectives of 28 selected German stakeholders from the political, economic, civil and scientific sector. Written expert interviews with open questions captured stakeholders' perceptions of the plastic problem and their approaches to enabling consumers to reduce plastic packaging for food and beverages. Results showed that the interviewed stakeholders did not point out consumers as the most important agents for change, but considered all societal agents responsible for implementing a wide range of consumer-enabling measures. The analysis revealed six groups of suggested measures, the most predominant ones being (1) the creation of alternatives for consumers and (2) political measures. Further suggested measures were (3) communication and awareness raising, (4) change in consumer behavior, (5) technical innovation and development, and (6) networking with other stakeholders. Based on our empirical results, we derived nine recommendations for action on three levels of the waste management hierarchy: prevention, recycling and disposal. • Plastic waste prevention is not implemented as prioritized by European legislation. • The current policy framework hardly enables consumers to reduce plastic waste. • Twenty-eight stakeholders were interviewed about such measures to enable consumers. • Suggested measures vary greatly among the sectors of interviewed stakeholders. • Derived recommendations for action aid the implementation of suggested measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper examines the impact of environmental innovations on company competitiveness of both the environment industry and related sectors in the region of Munich. The focus is on the drivers of these innovations and their respective effects on innovating companies. Not only innovations in the area of end-of-pipe technologies, but also the development of integrated products and production methods are examined. In a regional case study approach, a sample of 14 manufacturing and service companies in Munich (Southern Germany) was interviewed. Essentially, environmental innovation is driven by a mixture of factors internal and external to the firm: not only regulatory pressure, but also cost pressure, competitive advantages, technological lead and customer pressure are important drivers. Regulatory pushed innovations contribute to the competitive performance of sample companies in a similar way as environmental innovations which are carried out voluntarily. That would yield proof for the so-called Porter hypothesis which assumes that environmental legislation stimulates innovation and leads to “win–win” opportunities where simultaneously pollution is reduced and productivity increased. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Oxy-combustion is a feasible CO 2 capture method in the power and heat generation sector. This paper aims to propose a methodology for assessing two oxygen production technologies for small-scale oxy-combustion units: i) two-bed pressure swing adsorption (PSA), and ii) liquid oxygen delivery (LOX) for any local conditions, including the greenhouse gas (GHC) footprint for the oxygen that is produced. An analysis of PSA technology and LOX technology was carried out for the Czech Republic and for Germany, where the electricity, labor costs, and greenhouse gas (GHC) emission factors of electrical power differ considerably, but the equipment costs are similar. The analysis always has to be based on local prices, especially on the electricity price that is available for consumers operating PSA units and the price for liquid oxygen delivery, and also GHC emission factors for the electric energy produced in a given area or country. Depending on the local conditions, we may reach completely different conclusions concerning the technology that will be chosen for oxygen supply. • Two oxygen sources for small oxy-combustion units were economically analysed. • These sources were assessed: i) PSA technology, and ii) LOX delivery technology. • The operating costs are affected by local electricity prices and LOX price. • The electricity cost varies country from country and depends on electricity take-off. • Depending on the local conditions completely different conclusions can be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper analyses the performance of ‘market-based’ and ‘feed-in tariff’ systems of renewable energy procurement, and comments on the impact of different procurement systems on investment in renewable energy. The ‘market-based’ British Renewables Obligation (RO) is not more cost-effective compared to the German feed in tariff. Although the nominal rates of payment per kWh of renewable energy are higher in Germany, this is more than offset by lower wind speeds in Germany producing a lower return on investment compared to the UK. A harmonised, EU-wide market-based system, would not improve cost-effectiveness, and may serve to reduce, rather than increase, local investment in renewable energy. On the other hand, nationally based green electricity certificate systems like the RO are not intrinsically biased against locally owned or co-operative ventures. Systems are needed which encourage a diversity of investment in renewable energy from local as well as institutional sources. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Electric vehicles and electricity storage systems are major pillars in the German energy transition process towards a renewable energy system. Although both technologies are commonly found in future energy system scenarios, the aspect of resource availability as well as their extended implication on the environment and national economy for battery systems remains uncertain. Therefore, this paper assesses the total cumulated metal demand for Lithium-ion batteries (LiBs) in Germany by 2050, based on two distinct battery market scenarios. A multidimensional criticality assessment was conducted to evaluate possible risk implications for Germany concerning the security of supply, the economic vulnerability and environmental impacts. Herein, the perspective of a fair distribution of global resources, determined by the German share of the global population, was applied. We find that supply bottlenecks are to be expected especially for lithium, nickel, and cobalt, as the German demand exceeds its dedicated resource budget. Depending on the market development scenarios, the resource budget of most of the metals for the use in LiBs will be depleted between 2025 and 2030. The vulnerability of the German economy to supply restrictions of related metals is high mainly due to the lack of substitutes, high import reliance as well as a considerable contribution to the national GDP. The evaluation of several mitigation strategies showed that it is possible to significantly reduce the severity of the risks. Effective support schemes and regulations are required to ensure that efficiency measures such as development of novel battery concepts, improved material efficiency in production as well as establishment of effective recycling processes must be implemented without delay. • Deployment of LiBs in Germany subject to high vulnerability to supply restrictions. • Climate goals in Germany causes strong dependency of economy and population on LiBs. • Increase of the end-use shares for LiB is not sufficient to mitigate supply bottlenecks. • Novel LiBs ease the risks in cobalt and nickel but at the expanse of lithium. • Recycling creates metal surplus to be utilized in circular economy or other sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the role of market perceptions in the formation of new markets. A conceptual model based on the market practice framework of Kjellberg and Helgesson (2007) is developed and applied to market development activities for the Biomass-to-Liquid (BtL) innovation in Germany. The comparative longitudinal study confirms the suitability of this model in bringing different strands of theory together and helps explaining why innovations often fail to close the innovation gap. The findings show that in the development of pilot and demonstration projects common expectations through effectuation processes must be formed mostly on the exchange-practice level in order to create a market for BtL. In this context, storylines and the way they are connected to market perceptions play a key role in bridging the innovation gap of bio-based markets. • Systematic analysis of the role of market perceptions in crossing the innovation gap. • The conceptual model explores actor perceptions in the formation of new markets. • The network perspective approach reveals dynamics in the development of BtL in Germany. • Different BtL market perceptions block actors to bridge the innovation gap. • Strong market networks need to be formed during PDP development to enable effectuation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing consumer satisfaction and well-being is an important objective of companies, retailers and public policy makers. In the current debate on climate change, a consistent theme is that consumers in developed countries must learn to consume less. The present study (based on representative data sets from the US, N = 1,017, and Germany, N = 1030) addresses these issues by using a scenario-based experiment to analyze how satisfied voluntary simplifiers (people who voluntarily abstain from consumption) are with their purchase decisions in the case of a muesli brand. The research question is whether people who follow a sustainable, simple lifestyle are more satisfied with their daily consumption choices than people who have a more consumerist lifestyle. If so, it would be easier for many people to change their lifestyles and consume less. In addition, this scenario experiment manipulates consumer empowerment and decision complexity since both factors are supposed to influence purchase satisfaction. The results are consistent across both countries and indicate that voluntary simplifiers experience a higher level of purchasing satisfaction than non-simplifiers, whereby empowerment and decision complexity play different roles. • This paper links the lifestyle of refraining from consumption with personal well-being and shopping satisfaction. • A scenario-based online experiment on the satisfaction of voluntary simplifiers with their purchase decisions is conducted. • Empowerment and decision complexity moderate the voluntary simplicity-decision satisfaction relationship in different ways. • Voluntary simplifiers are more satisfied with their purchasing decisions than consumption-driven individuals. • Consumer empowerment also leads to greater decision satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article is to evaluate the main drivers of the sharing economy through an exhaustive weighting and meta-analysis of previous relevant quantitative research articles, obtained using a systematic literature review methodology. The authors analysed 22 quantitative studies from 2008 through. Out of the 249 extracted relationships (independent – dependent variable), the paper identifies the "best" predictors used in theoretical models to study the sharing economy. These include: attitude on intention to share, perceived behavioural control on intention to share, subjective norm on intention to share, economic benefit on attitude, and perceived risk on attitude. Geographically, Germany and the United States of America were found to be the nations with the highest number of respondents. Temporally, an increasing trend in the number of articles on the sharing economy and respondents was observed. The consolidation of the drivers of the sharing economy provides a solid theoretical foundation for the research community to explore existing hypotheses further and test new hypotheses in emerging contexts of the sharing economy. Given the different conceptual theories that have been used to study the sharing economy and their application to different contexts, this study presents the first attempt at advancing knowledge by quantitatively synthesizing findings presented in previous literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'Flight shame' describes an unease about the climate implications of air travel, and bears evidence of a change in social norms that have so far associated flying with social status. This paper discusses whether Fridays for Future demonstrations and ensuing flight shame have influenced social norms regarding the desirability of air travel, and whether this is measurable in a decline in air travel, or policy support for measures curbing emissions from aviation. These aspects are discussed on the basis of German flight statistics and an online panel survey (n = 1002) conducted in August 2019 in Germany. Results show that, against a background of falling domestic air transport demand, respondents do not report a significant change in travel behaviour. However, a two-third majority of respondents indicate support for market-based measures increasing the cost of flying, as well as policies forcing airlines to reduce emissions and legislation abolishing subsidies. These findings point at an ongoing change in social norms, which could be reinforced if policymakers took advantage of public support for ambitious climate policies. • Investigates flight shame debates' influence on social norms and policy support. • Finds strong evidence of a heightened awareness of air travel implications. • Suggests that social practice change is already visible in declining passenger numbers. • Affirms support for far-reaching climate policies to curb emissions from aviation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to provide an overview about the distribution of the environmental impacts arising from different domestic functions (i.e. storing and preparing food, washing dishes, watching television, reading, personal cleaning, washing, drying and ironing clothes, home cleaning, heating, cooling, lighting and mobility) typically performed within a common family home. The method has general validity but for reasons related to the availability of data in the literature it has been applied by way of example only in three EU countries: Italy, Germany and France. The study was performed by using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in accordance with international standard ISO 14067 for determining the carbon footprint of different alternative domestic components, mainly appliances, for each function, by exclusively exploiting data from scientific literature. The functional unit is defined comprising all most common referred domestic activities of a family of three members within a house of 100 m2. The study identified an optimal configuration and a worse one of the domestic components in terms of carbon footprint, showing how a wise choice of these can greatly affect the overall impact by reducing it compared to the worst by more than 22% in Italy, 45% in Germany and 56% in France. The average impacts between the optimal and the worst configurations of Germany are higher than Italy (+27%) and France (+44%). Considering the impacts among the domestic functions in the average configuration, mobility was the most impactful in all the three countries (35–48%), followed by heating (17–26%), personal cleaning (10–13%) and washing dishes (8–13%), while cooling is consistent only in Italy (13%), against 5% in Germany and 2% in France. The study also allowed to identify some generic criteria for defining the optimal configuration: the increasing in energy efficiency, the choice of the least impacting energy source depending on the geographical location, ensuring water savings and the early replacement of older domestic components. Finally, by comparing some common measures for improving the domestic sustainability, these criteria proved to be more effective than solar systems and improved electricity mix. The provided outcomes may be used by manufacturers for improving their product in a more sustainable way as well as by legislator and end user, respectively for boosting and choosing the greener domestic components. Image 1 • LCA for estimating domestic environmental impacts based on scientific literature. • Application to three EU countries: Italy, Germany and France. • Assessing Carbon Footprint of different alternative domestic components for each domestic function. • Determining the optimal and the worst configuration of domestic components to minimize the impacts. • Comparing possible improvements for minimizing carbon footprint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one possibility to increase flexibility, battery storage systems (BSS) will play a key role in the decarbonization of the energy system. The emissions-intensity of grid electricity becomes more important as these BSSs are more widely employed. In this paper, we introduce a novel data basis for the determination of the energy system's CO 2 emissions, which is a match between the ENTSO-E database and the EUTL databases. We further postulate four different dynamic emission factors (EF) to determine the hourly CO 2 emissions caused through a change in electricity demand: the average emission factor (AEF), the marginal power mix (MPM), the marginal system response (MSR) and an energy-model-derived marginal power plant (MPP). For generic and battery storage systems, a linear optimization on two levels optimizes the economic and environmental storage dispatch for a set of 50 small and medium enterprises in Germany. The four different emission factors have different signaling effects. The AEF leads to the lowest CO 2 reduction and allows for roughly two daily cycles. The other EFs show a higher volatility, which leads to a higher utilization of the storage system from 3.4 to 5.4 daily cycles. The minimum mean value for CO 2 abatement costs over all 50 companies is 14.13 €/t CO 2. • Empirical determination of dynamic emission factors (in Germany). • Novel match of the Entso-E database, the EUTL database and LCPD database. • Two-step optimization of CO2-abatement cost of energy storage dispatch. • Application to 50 real-world load profiles of German SMEs. • Competitive CO2-abatement costs for storage systems in industry possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycling strategies for waste products from grinding processes have become an essential concern for the industrial sector, as up to 250,000 tons of grinding sludge is generated annually in Germany alone. In this paper, a suitable recycling strategy for the recovery of the metallic component of industrial sludge generated from cold work tool steel grinding is investigated and reported. Possible reuse of the recovered metallic material as a precursor for supersolidus liquid phase sintering (SLPS), a powder metallurgy process, is assessed for the first time. Using a novel technique, including washing, dry screening and magnetic separation, 50 wt% metallic swarf and 50 wt% abrasives can be recovered from dried, industrial grinding sludge. These metallic swarf are a mixture of discontinuous and continuous microchips with a particle size of up to 250 μm. The metallic swarf tend to agglomerate, resulting in larger accumulations and a correspondingly larger overall size with a particle size of over 1000 μm. Using SLPS, the densification of the metallic swarf was considered promising, as density increases with increasing sintering temperature. A maximum density of 76 vol% was achieved, owing to the morphology of the swarf. Occasionally, a few abrasives were observed in the microstructure. Hence, a new sustainable recycling strategy for the recovery of the metallic swarf in industrial grinding sludge has been proposed and the reuse of swarf as precursor for SLPS has demonstrated promising results. Further work is being undertaken to improve the densification of the metallic swarf by SLPS. • Characterization of grinding sludge. • Novel technique for recovery of metallic swarf from grinding sludge. • Reutilization of recovered high alloyed metallic swarf for supersolidus liquid phase sintering. • Particle shape and microstructural analysis and comparison of metallic swarf and gas atomized powders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]