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Abstract To reduce pollution emissions and achieve a cleaner production in paper industry, it is essential to understand the inner links between concentrations of gaseous pollutants, types of final products and production techniques. In this study, the concentrations of four potential gaseous pollutants, total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), formaldehyde (HCHO), hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), and hydrocarbon compounds (C x H y), in the ambient air on thirty sampling points of five pulp and paper mills were detected and analyzed. The results were summarized with respect to the following aspects: (1) Levels of four gaseous pollutants on all the sampling points in five mills. It was obvious that the situation of gaseous pollution from pulp mill was much more serious than those from paper mills. (2) Gaseous pollutant distinctions due to different production processes. The levels of gaseous pollutants from five mills were greatly influenced by the utilized raw materials and the applied paper chemical agents (flavor, coating materials and additives) in mills. (3) Gaseous pollution comparisons at common points. At the two common points in five mills, i.e. the wet end of paper machine and the wastewater treatment process, TVOC and HCHO, C x H y and H 2 S were the main gaseous pollutants, respectively. In addition, some feasible measures to realize a cleaner production in pulping and papermaking process were also put forward in the article. Highlights • We analyze the levels of 4 gaseous pollutants on 30 sites of 5 pulp & paper mills. • Gaseous pollution distinctions due to different production processes are studied. • Feasible measures to realize the cleaner production in the processes are suggested. • Gaseous pollution are greatly affected by raw materials and added paper chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China has become the world largest paper and paperboard producer. However, pulp and paper industry has involved high resource consumption and severe pollution especially for water. This research has assessed the eco-efficiency of China's pulp and paper industry at the national level and provincial level. An overview regarding the cleaner production of China's pulp and paper industry was presented to reveal the measures for reducing environmental impact in the last two decades. Slacks-based measure was used to analyze the efficiency levels of 16 provinces' pulp and paper industries. To uncover the underlying causes of eco-efficiency performance, Malmquist–Luenberger index was calculated to discover the drivers of productivity growth of pulp and paper industries. Our results showed that the pollution treatment of China's pulp and paper industry has made progress in terms of water consumption and water pollution, although the absolute amount of pollution discharge is still large. Chemical oxygen demand emissions are still the first critical influencing factor of pulp and paper industry's inefficiency. Furthermore, efficiency progress was the dominating contribution of the industry's productivity growth between 2010 and 2013. The policies for adjusting the industrial structure of pulp and paper industry have resulted in the scale effects through eliminating backward production capacity and accelerating merger and acquisitions. Moreover, the productivity of pulp and paper industry was underestimated when the undesirable outputs were ignored. It indicates that the stricter environmental regulations have positive effects on paper companies to internalize environmental pressures in the production activities through environmental management. In the future, pulp and paper companies should further internalize the cost of pollution treatment through scale effects and technology improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The limited water supply of the Metropolitan Area of Mexico City has become a challenge for local companies. The region's aquifer is listed as closed due to pressure on the water supply as a result of growth in manufacturing as well as increased domestic water use. The environmental, economic and legal benefits of a cleaner production scenario studied were highly encouraging; implementation of cleaner technologies reduces water extraction by up to 16 times. While initial investment is high, the internal rate of return rate is approximately 35% per year, implying a three year return on initial investment. Under this scenario, the business complies with environmental regulations, avoiding great amounts of water extraction and future wastewater discharge, thus conserving this vital resource. This study proves what Silvo et al. (2009) states that In the longer run the combination of the Integrated Pollution and Prevention Control permit approach with other regulatory and voluntary policy instruments taking into account the results of system assessments such as Life Cycle Assessment could potentially produce eco-efficient solutions. Thus, for this industry, cleaner production pays off in the long run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An Environmental Management Accounting (EMA) framework is applied to the 2000 year-end financial report for the Mackenzie Paper Division paper mill owned and operated by Abitibi-Consolidated Inc. of Montreal, Quebec. A conventional reading of the obvious environmental costs from this financial report is Cdn$2,196,838. This figure is derived from an analysis of effluent treatment costs and other line item environmental costs. There is no “environmental account” category that breaks out either costs or the mass balance of inputs and outputs. For the most part, environmental costs are rolled up into overhead accounts such as administration, infrastructure and materials accounts. Application of the EMA framework is based on assigning environmental costs to one of four categories for which a tentative breakdown is as follows: (1) waste and emission treatment costs ($3,348,902); (2) prevention and environmental management costs ($270,109); (3) material purchase value of non-product output costs ($946,799); and (4) processing costs of non-product output ($2 92,943). There is also a category called Environmental Revenues, of which none were reported. Conservative estimates thus place the total environmental costs at $4,858,753. What is significant about this result is that the environmental costs under EMA are at least twice as much as would normally be reported. This supports the view that environmental costs are much higher than generally considered and makes it clear that many important environmental costs as well as benefits are “hidden” in other accounts. More studies of a similar design are required to confirm the validity of the EMA methodology reported here. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The main objective of this project was to evaluate the possibility of reducing the quantity of fibre wasted at one of many hydrocyclone (centrifugal) cleaning processes in a paper mill. It was found that the application of elutriation water to both the tertiary and quaternary cleaners was essential to minimise the fibre discharged to the sewer, and the pressure of this elutriation water had a dramatic effect of reducing the fibre wastage. Accordingly, it has been shown that 150–160 kPa as the optimum pressure range to apply elutriation water to minimise the product grade fibre wasted whilst sending undesired shive fibre to the sewer. Also, monitoring of the press uhle box wastewater revealed that the paper mill has the potential to make substantial cost savings by reducing the waste stream. Further investigation is necessary to determine the types of fibre that are being wasted, and the viability of a screen to recycle the wasted fibre to the process. However, these fibres may be unsuitable to reuse in the process and alternative uses must be found. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study was designed to apply cleaner production concepts in a Turkish pulp and paper mill, for the first time in Turkey, to introduce the concept as well as to provide a framework for future initiatives. To achieve this objective a comprehensive waste reduction audit was conducted at SEKA Balikesir pulp and paper mill. First, audit schemes from different sources were examined and compiled that resulted in the methodology employed in this work. The audit covered water emissions and water usage. Then, the collected data were compared with international environmental performance indicators from other companies in the USA, Canada, Australia, and Europe. This comparison provided specific opportunities for improvement at different processes in the mill. For each viable opportunity, different waste reduction measures were analyzed and determined. Furthermore, the benefits of the identified waste reduction options were analyzed for increasing production efficiency and achieving target raw effluent pollution loads from the mill. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Environmental problems caused by recycling wasted paper at a board paper mill provide the material of this study. Two scenarios have been investigated: The first being the treatment of the end-of-pipe, and the second being the control and management of pollution problems through the application of in-plant control and pollution prevention measures. Comparison between the two alternatives, based on a cost-benefit analysis and compliance with National Environmental Laws was done. From this study it was apparent that the implementation of the pollution prevention measures such as the recovery of fiber, reduction of fresh water consumption, and optimization of white water usage proved to be very cost effective. All the implemented solutions have short payback periods and resulted in great savings compared with the treatment of the end-of-pipe. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: There has been much debate on the topic of whether stricter environmental regulations can promote environmental performance and economic performance at the same time. Different researchers have used different indicators to measure environmental performance and economic performance in their empirical studies. However, it is a surprise that few studies have checked the relationship between environmental regulation and eco-efficiency, as the latter is widely regarded as a quite powerful tool of considering ecology and economy together. In this study the background is the implementation in 2003 of the Stricter Discharge Standard (SDS) in Shandong Province’s Pulp and Paper Industry (SPPI), compared to the national standards of China. The stricter regulations were intended to promote corporate change from passive management to active control and from end-of-pipe treatment to cleaner production. This study investigated the eco-efficiency trends of SPPI from 2001 to 2008 in three fields: water efficiency, energy efficiency and environment efficiency. A “de-linking” and “re-linking” tool was used to attain a further evaluation. The study showed that with the implementation of stricter regulation most of the efficiency indicators (except CO2 emission and energy consumption) had achieved significant improvements, and the overall environmental performance trends of SPPI showed it to be more sustainable. However, the study also found that it was not enough to address a single indicator in the environmental regulation of the pulp and paper industry. More holistic eco-efficiency indicators need to be further considered and introduced to the industry as the next step to create true sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An environmental assessment for Jordan Paper and Cardboard Factory (JPCF) was conducted. Cleaner production concept, what it can achieve, and how it can be applied to JPCF was tested. Using the waste audit tool, five independent options were identified as having potential for improvements; these were on site reuse, technological changes, raw material changes, good housekeeping, and product changes. For each option, one or more pollution prevention actions were recommended. Economical advantages that could be achieved in water, energy, and material savings were quantified and simple payback periods calculated. Analyses revealed that on-site reuse and technological changes were the most efficient environmental options. Although different actions might result in similar benefits, the decision to execute a certain action is dependent upon its economic viability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The aim of this study was to explore the potential of crude xylano-pectinolytic enzymes in bio-pulping of rice straw, in order to reduce environmental pollution. In this study, the effect of integration of bio-pulping strategy before chemical pulping of rice straw has been investigated. The bio-pulping efficiency was found to be maximum at xylanase:pectinase dose of 400:120 IU/g rice straw, temperature 55 °C, treatment time 3 h, Tween 80 (1%), pH 8.5 and pulping consistency 1:10 (g/mL). Bio-pulping enhanced the permeability of pulping chemicals, generated pulp with higher yield, brightness, along with higher residual active alkali content of black liquor in comparison to the pulp obtained after chemical pulping. Bio-pulping also resulted in 10% reduction of alkali dose and improved paper quality, with increase in breaking length (13.9%), burst index (27.0%), double fold (39.3%), gurley porosity (18.75%) and viscosity (8.77%) of unbleached bio-pulp. Bio-pulping also improved the bleachability by removing the D 2 step of bleaching and produced pulp with higher physical strength properties, breaking length (15.92%), burst index (20.47%), tear index (3.87%), double fold (36.0%), gurley porosity (25.0%) and viscosity (28.36%). Hence, this environmentally sustainable bio-pulping approach can decrease the chemical load and ultimately pollution, along with enhance the yield and quality of paper. This is the first report demonstrating cleaner pulping of rice straw using crude xylano-pectinolytic enzymes, produced by a bacterial isolate. • Pulping of rice straw was done using cleaner approach. • Bio-pulping resulted in 10% reduced alkali load during chemical pulping. • Biopulping also reduced the consumption of bleaching dose. • Biopulping generated pulp with higher yield and optical properties. • Production of better strength paper with eco-friendly approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we developed and demonstrated an integrated closed eco-system for pollution reduction and prevention in rice-paper producing and livestock farms in a small-scale craft village which is located in a dry region of Vietnam with a lack of available surface water sources. The system is developed on the basis of material and energy exchange potentials between the wastewater and exhaust gas flows, and the use of available firewood ash as material for absorption. Two operation modes were presented aiming at a complete treatment of wastewater and exhaust gases as required by the Vietnamese national standards, and the recovery of valuable components in the system (N, P) for obtaining value-added products (such as fertilizer, irrigation water, etc.). In addition, the maximization of potentials on existing natural conditions at the local family, the avoidance of chemicals used in the system etc. have also helped to lower the investment and operation costs of the treatment facilities. The application of this system also contributes to the "greening" of the rice production chain in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam and is an example for a local closed cycle economy. Several public activities have also been conducted at the demonstration site (at the local family) with the purpose of maintaining and multiplying the system's effectiveness among the local public community. • An integrated closed eco-system for pollution reduction and prevention in rice-paper producing and livestock farms in a small-scale craft village. • The reasonable material and energy exchange potentials between the wastewater and exhaust gas flows were most effective Cleaner Production sollution in the system. • The recovery of valuable components (N, P) for obtaining value-added products (fertilizer, irrigation water, etc.), the maximization of potentials on existing natural conditions at the local family, the avoidance of chemicals used in the system etc give major economic and environmental benefits to the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An effective cleaner production programme requires the efficient collection and interpretation of data relating to a facility’s activities, including information of pollutant emissions, wastes generated and raw materials consumed. Many of these data are required to be collected and reported under national Pollutant Release and Transfers Registers (PRTRs) which are an increasingly common environmental policy tool in the OECD countries.This article considers the relationship between cleaner production and PRTR reporting, and discusses whether cleaner production programmes can be enhanced by the use of PRTR data. A case-study of a fertiliser manufacturing facility reporting under the Australian National Pollutant Inventory (NPI) is used to analyse and illustrate the practical issues around linking cleaner production with PRTR reporting.PRTR reporting can assist in identifying cleaner production opportunities and in generating the data sets required to design, implement and monitor cleaner production programmes. There are, however, some limitations in PRTR data that need to be recognised. Specifically, these are issues around data quality and comparability (e.g. PRTRs rely heavily on default emissions factors rather than the monitoring data that are generally required for cleaner production programmes) and the different data sets required for PRTR reporting (which generally require reporting at the site level rather than at the individual process unit level that is required for cleaner production). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract The literature on baby diapers has so far focused on environmental implications of using cloth instead of disposable products, utilising bio-materials or enabling recycling and composting. However, no study to date has examined the life cycle costs and eco-efficiency implications of cleaner production of disposable diapers. Therefore, this paper sets out to evaluate the economic and environmental savings that could be achieved by eco-design and cleaner production of disposable baby diapers. This involves the use of an optimised absorbent core and innovative bonding technologies to replace gluing systems in diaper manufacturing. The analysis is carried out at different production and consumption scales: a single production platform, a whole industrial plant, a country and the European Union (EU). A cradle-to-grave life cycle costing demonstrates that the novel design and manufacture of the so-called "glueless" diapers reduce costs by 11% compared to the conventional product. This is equivalent to saving €250 million at the EU level. Likewise, the eco-efficiency analysis shows that the glueless diapers are 7%–170% more eco-efficient (€/impact) than the standard diapers, depending on the environmental impact considered. Still, eco-design and cleaner production will not help to resolve the underlying critical issue of the linear material consumption and waste generation associated with the use of disposable baby diapers. Further industrial efforts must concentrate on finding solutions to facilitate implementation of circular economy principles for these products. This calls for the development of new circular business models as discussed in the paper. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • New diapers are overall 32% more eco-efficient (€/impact) than the standard type. • Cleaner production of diapers reduces the life cycle costs by 11%. • At the EU level, this corresponds to an annual saving in costs of €250 million. • In addition, 192 kt materials and wastes and 184 kt of CO 2 eq. are saved annually. • Still, implementation of a circular economy is critical for the diapers industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The annual market demand for disposable baby diapers exceeds 20 billion units (690 kt) in the European Union (EU). Almost 40,000 disposable diapers are used every minute, producing 1.3 t/min (dry weight) of waste. Based on the estimates in this work, this requires 90.3 PJ of primary energy and emits 2.7 Mt CO 2 eq. annually. In an attempt to reduce resource, waste and environmental impacts associated with diapers, this paper focuses on novel design and manufacture of disposable baby diapers. This involves using optimised absorbent core and novel bonding technologies to replace conventional gluing of diaper materials. Life cycle assessment has been performed to compare the environmental performance of these new diapers, here termed "glueless", with standard designs. The annual resource consumption and environmental impacts of glueless diapers have been estimated at different production levels: a single production platform, an industrial plant, a country (Italy) and the EU, taking into account different production volumes, electricity mixes and waste management options. Different market penetration scenarios have been considered to determine potential environmental implications at the EU level by 2020. The results reveal that glueless diapers reduce the consumption of raw materials by 23% (9.2 g/diaper), primary energy demand by 25% (752 kJ/diaper) and global warming potential by 10% (10.4 g CO 2 eq./diaper) compared to the standard diapers. They also have more than 50% lower eutrophication, ozone depletion and human and eco-toxicity. Up to 16 PJ primary energy and 191,000 t CO 2 eq. would be saved annually in the EU by using glueless diapers. The cumulative savings would amount to 47 PJ and 566,000 t CO 2 eq. by 2020. The annual consumption of raw materials at the EU level would be reduced by 196,000 t with cumulative savings of up to 584,000 t by 2020, also reducing the equivalent amount of waste from the disposal of diapers. Consequently, glueless diapers can contribute to meeting the energy, climate and resource efficiency goals specified in the EU 2020 strategy. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Novel design and manufacture of "glueless" disposable baby diapers is considered. • Glueless diapers save 23% of materials and 25% of energy relative to standard type. • Most life cycle impacts are reduced by >50% and global warming potential by 10%. • Up to 584,000 t of waste and 566,000 t of CO 2 eq. can be saved by 2020. • Glueless diapers can help meet the EU energy, resource and climate change targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using fracturing fluids to modify coal seams to boost their permeability is an essential way to address the technical challenges of the resourceful and efficient extraction of coalbed methane from coal reservoirs in China. However, some current fracturing fluids are toxic or corrosive and pollute groundwater resources, which becomes one of the obstacles to the development of fracturing and penetration technology. Five new types of composite clean fracturing fluids were developed in this paper with Yunnan anthracite coal in China as the research object. The changing rules of functional groups and pore structures, which have a vital influence on gas adsorption and permeability of the treated coal samples, were systematically explored through infrared spectroscopy and low-temperature nitrogen adsorption experiments, and the highly efficient, environmentally friendly, and safe fracturing fluids that are suitable for the experimental coal seams were preferred. The new fracturing fluid effectively reduces the structure of aliphatic hydrocarbon and the structure of oxygen-containing functional groups, improves aromaticity, and lowers the adsorption capacity of coal for methane. Meanwhile, it simplifies the pore structure of coal and improves the average pore diameter. The research results are essential to the clean production and efficient exploitation of coalbed methane resources and safe coal production. • Five new clean fracturing fluids was prepared. • Analyze the effect of different clean fracturing fluids on coal microstructure. • Explored the mechanism of action of clean fracking fluids on coal. • Determined the optimal ratio of clean fracturing fluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under the promotion of sustainable development goals, cleaner production (CP) has become an important strategy for energy-intensive manufacturing industries to maintain their competitiveness. Studies have shown that the implementation of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) can effectively promote the CP process in manufacturing. However, existing studies often focus on specific scenarios, limiting a comprehensive assessment of the industry's overall status. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the main research areas of I4.0 and its key impacts on CP by employing systematic mapping studies. By reviewing 121 studies retrieved from the Web of Science, a hierarchical analysis framework centered on the product life cycle (PLC) has been introduced. This framework provides a holistic analysis of sustainable intelligent manufacturing, summarizing the application of I4.0 and its impact on CP across the PLC stages. The main findings reveal a growing focus on I4.0 and CP, with the manufacturing and maintenance stages of the PLC being primary research scenarios. Moreover, attention should be directed towards integrating clean technologies, bolstering industrial data security, fostering circular economy practices, and exploring emerging fields like Industry 5.0. Moreover, to better explain the impact of this study, management implications are also provided from the three dimensions of theory, practice, and policy. These viewpoints and conclusions are of great significance for guiding future research and practical applications. • A comprehensive review of Industry 4.0 and cleaner production is conducted. • Systematic mapping and bibliometric methods are employed. • A hierarchical framework based on product life cycle is proposed. • The current challenges and future prospects are discussed. • Management implications from theory, practice, and policy are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adoption of sustainable residue management practices is considered as a cleaner production option for the agricultural sector. However, limited information is available from Pakistan on the current use and adoption of sustainable residue management practices and different socio-physiological factors are involved in the process of shaping farmers' intentions. Based on the protection motivation theory framework, this study analyzes the socio-physiological factors affecting the farmers' intentions on adopting sustainable crop residue management practices. The paper is based on cross-sectional data collected from 420 farmers across Punjab and employs a structural equation modeling to explore research objectives. The research findings show that farmers, who perceive high risk from crop residue burning or who are aware of its negative consequences, are more intended to adopt sustainable crop residue management practices. However, their adoption intentions do have significant relationship with the self-efficacy implying the lack of resources, time, knowledge, competency, and skills as constraints limiting the adoption of cleaner production strategies. Further, the research findings also confirm the positive and significant role of habits of farmers in shaping their intentions to use sustainable crop residue management practices. In addition to this, the paper found a positive and significant role in social interaction, sources of information and access to extension services in shaping farmers' decision regarding sustainable residue management practices at the farm level. The research findings suggest enhancing awareness to highlight the negative impacts of crop residue burning and to train them regarding useful and sustainable crop residue management options that are not only cleaner production options but also generate economic benefits for farmers. • Socio-psychological factors affecting farmers' SCRMPs intentions are assessed. • Perceived high risks of residue burning are more intended to adopt SCRMPs. • Socio-cognitive attributes significantly influence farmers' adoption intentions. • Farmers' intentions can improve by promoting ecological benefits of these practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract As many manufacturing cities are currently experiencing serious environmental deterioration and energy crises, it is essential that they implement sustainable transitions by using cleaner production (CP) as a hopeful tool. We summarized the CP instruments applied in manufacturing cities and investigated their effect in urban sustainable transitions in this paper, by selecting Dongguan-a typical manufacturing hub in China-as a case. 264 related documents of policies, regulations, files, and notices promulgated by the Dongguan government during 2002–2017 were analyzed via content analysis to reveal the priority of major utilized tools for policy makers. We also summarized and analyzed the lifespan, dynamic trajectory, performance, function, and quantitative outcome of integrated CP instruments for sustainable transitions. It was found that CP instruments effectively decrease pollution generation, save energy, reduce resource consumption, and adjust and optimize industrial structure. It was also revealed that CP instruments embedded in sustainable transitions strategies was more effective and efficient at urban scale than that at larger scale. This paper provides a general reference for integrating CP instruments to push forward sustainable transitions in manufacturing cities, especially those cities without local legislative power in developing countries. Highlights • Content analysis were applied to analyze various cleaner production (CP) policies. • CP instruments effectively assists sustainable transition at urban scale. • Combining pollution prevention with energy conservation is effective strategies. • CP level and energy efficiency are useful indices for industrial structure optimization. • Continuity impacts the performance and outcome of CP policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper details about the application of high volume copper slag in concrete. The study leads towards cleaner production by, utilizing the land-filled or stockpiled industrial by-product copper slag as an alternative to natural river sand in concrete. The current global production of copper slag is about 40 million tonnes which if utilized properly will be a sustainable substitute for tremendous demand of natural aggregate, worldwide. In literature, several studies have highlighted promising aspects of copper slag in developing it as a valuable resource. However, there are very limited studies available on the performance of copper slag in concrete at the structural level and its possible life cycle effects in concrete construction. The present research is aimed to bridge the aforementioned gap. The contributions from the paper are a comparative evaluation on the effect of substituting 100% natural sand with copper slag in terms of (i) load capacity, ductility and failure behavior in all failure modes such as shear, flexure and mixed (ii) total embodied energy and the global warming potential. From the overall studies, it is concluded that high volume copper slag with 100% replacement as fine aggregate in concrete structures is technically viable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of cleaner production have often focused on two domains: the applications and the effects. An ever-increasing importance of cleaner production is pushing researchers to pay more attention to the formulation and principles of cleaner production policies. However, there is nearly none of the previous research that systematically and comprehensively analyses the development processes of cleaner production policies and exploring their characteristics deeply. The missing study is important in not only contributing to the perfection of cleaner production policies but also influencing the strategic planning of firms. This paper bridges this gap by first presenting a comprehensive study of the development process of cleaner production policies and then exploring their characteristics. We choose China, the biggest developing country and one of the most challenging countries to implement cleaner production, as the main research target and in addition a number of other developed and developing countries for comparisons. To investigate deeper into the characteristics of cleaner production in China, all the major policies and regulations issued by central ministries from 1997 to 2013 have been studied, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the research. By employing T-LAB software with linguistic and statistical content analysis method, this paper derives following conclusions. (1) “audit”, “implementation” and “environmental” have the highest correlation coefficients with cleaner production; (2) cleaner production policies focus on four themes: “pilot”, “indicator”, “people” and “list”; (3) the formulation and implementation of cleaner production policies are endowed with typical characteristics of collaboration; (4) the characteristics of cleaner production policies are typically constraining types that evidently guide and regulate the behaviours of firms. This paper contributes as a general important reference of cleaner production policies for governments and firms especially in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continuous and growing demand for phosphate, especially by the fertilizer industry, has increased the exploitation rate of high-grade phosphate ores extracted from phosphate deposits. However, with the depletion of high-grade ore resources, the exploitation of low-grade phosphate ores and phosphate mine waste rock (PMWR) has become a necessity for cleaner production and sustainable resource conservation. Many scientific and industrial studies on the exploitation and beneficiation of low-grade phosphate ores were reviewed; however, the beneficiation of PMWR has rarely been studied in the previous literature. PMWR as a low-grade phosphate ore is characterised by high heterogeneity due to the large particle size distribution. This physical anisotropy of PMWR presents a crucial challenge for upgrading using sorting and further processing methods. The focus of this review was mainly on the recent advances in beneficiation technologies and their adaptability to reprocess PMWR to enhance the sustainability of non-renewable phosphate reserves. The technologies of PMWR reprocessing, such as mineralurgical methods (classification, flotation, gravity separation, and ore sorting), magnetic, electrostatic, and thermal separation (calcination), hydrometallurgical methods (acid leaching and bioleaching), and combined processes, are discussed in this paper. The final findings of this review paper allowed the identification of the relevant and suitable processing methods to recover phosphate from PMWR, including: i) ore sorting to reduce the challenges related to the high physical heterogeneity of PMWR; ii) gravity separation to preconcentrate the residual phosphate; iii) flotation to upgrade the phosphate grade by removing gangue minerals with a leaching process to dissolve carbonate minerals; and iv) calcination to reduce the carbonate content in the final product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, carbon emissions produced by coal consumption have raised concerns around the world, but the carbon emissions associated with coal production should also be considered. As China's second-largest province for coal production, it is of extreme importance around the whole country for small and medium-sized coal enterprises in Inner Mongolia to achieve low-carbon transition. In this paper, we apply the IPAT equation to analyze the relationships among environmental impact, population, affluence and technology. The results of the analysis show that technological innovation can make an environmental impact or can cause pollutant emissions of a unit GDP to decline. Technological innovation is viewed as an avenue for environmental improvement, and corporate entities are key players in the environmental improvement. This equation can also be used indirectly on the micro-scale, for example, to determine the directions of development of enterprises and encourage the enterprises to achieve low-carbon transition as soon as possible. Selecting the example of a surface coal mine in Inner Mongolia (China) under the framework of cleaner production and the theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ), cleaner production options helping to reduce carbon emissions were proposed and implemented. Through the implementation of the options, carbon emissions of the coal mine were reduced by approximately 4%. Contributing cleaner production options for reducing carbon emissions mainly include increasing the efficiency of energy usage, substitution of environmentally friendly materials, optimization of process controls and changing process technologies. The results obtained in this paper can not only provide a decision-making foundation for the local governments when they invest in carbon reduction projects but also play an exemplary role for other similar enterprises to reduce carbon emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cleaner technology strategy is a firm's long term planning to avoid negative externality to the natural environment and remain competitive in future markets. The paper proposes a comprehensive definition of cleaner technology strategy and presents its important aspects to derive competitive advantages based on an empirical study of sixty firms across the industry sectors in India. A measure of cleaner technology strategy was constructed and, tested for its reliability and validity. Descriptive statistics was used to understand the relative importance of competitive aspects of cleaner technology strategy in Indian firms. The result shows that cleaner technology strategy derived from top management's vision of future technologies and ability to manage risk due to natural environment play a critical role in implementation of cleaner technology strategy. Firm's ability to pursue regulators for additional benefits, ability to manage risk associated with failures and imitation, and focus on up-gradation of in-house technological capabilities help in re-positioning to derive competitive advantages. The results also indicate that sustainable solutions offer differential competitive advantages across the industry sectors and firm's focus to update skill set of employees is also linked with industry sectors. The paper contributes to existing literature by making distinction between cleaner technology strategy and other strategies like pollution prevention and product stewardship. It further argues the strategic perspective of cleaner technology, cleaner production and eco-friendly products to develop necessary attributes for competitiveness. It also provides a measurement tool for the managers to check the performance of their firm to achieve the goals of cleaner technology strategy. Further, the paper provides important managerial, policy and research implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing numbers of end-of-life vehicles and a burgeoning concern for conservation of resources pressures the implementation of auto parts remanufacturing globally. But unlike in developed nations, developing countries encounter struggle with the implementation of auto parts remanufacturing due to hidden facts. Many researchers have explored such hidden facts in auto parts remanufacturing in developing nations and their emerging economies. However, there is a huge gap in the state-of-the-art remanufacturing practices in India, despite India's strong advancements in the automobile industry. In fact, India's automobile industry is rapidly approaching that of China's in recent years. Although some studies are available regarding remanufacturing implementation, current research has generally failed to offer a deep analysis of the factors and barriers that exist as hurdles to such implementation. Consequently, this paper attempts to investigate the essential barrier to auto parts remanufacturing in an Indian scenario, and we also address vital interrelationships and interdependencies. To achieve the aim of the study, a model framework is proposed and applied to an Indian case industry. The data obtained from the case industry is processed with two solution methodologies: namely, interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and analytic network process (ANP). To avoid inaccuracies and vagueness in results, the data are manipulated under a fuzzy environment. This study reveals results which show that higher cost and lack of customer acceptance are the essential and most influential barriers in auto parts remanufacturing in an Indian scenario. This study contributes to society by assisting closed loop supply chain players to identify and eliminate the barriers to remanufacturing within the scope of the Indian sector. Finally, this paper provides a brief road map and insights into future research for remanufacturing specifically in an Indian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Throughout industrial practice, the problem is that of identifying a suitable holistic approach connecting Cleaner Production, Total Site Integration, and Energy Efficiency Optimization. The combination of all the before mentioned concepts is believed to be crucial for comprehensive assessment of the energy and environmental issues within a company. Various case studies are included within this paper regarding the implementations of cleaner production principles, energy audit performance, pinch analysis and various optimisation techniques' calculations. Several energy audits of industrial processes within the dairy, ceramic, metal processing and meat processing industries, services such as laundries and of public buildings were carried out in order to find possibilities for increasing the overall energy efficiencies of industrial processes, buildings and energy systems. On the bases of the results and the knowledge obtained from the projects mentioned in the paper, a Total Site – Cleaner Production – Energy Efficiency – Optimisation approach is proposed which enables gradual research, development and integration of Cleaner production, Energy Auditing and Optimisation combined within novel optimisation methods and its concepts. The main objective of the research was the use of analysis regarding industrial practices when developing a holistic Total Site – Cleaner Production – Energy Efficiency – Optimisation approach for supporting industrial needs during the optimisation of energy demand. This novel approach consists of three phases that include within each one the traditional Total Site Integration, Cleaner Production and Energy Efficiency – Optimization methods with a proposed novel structure for addressing the energy and environmental categories within industry. This novel approach could generate greater efficiency due to combining the different methods and consequently having a higher more positive impact on the environment. The scientific added value is demonstrated through the combination of Total Site, Cleaner Production and Energy Efficiency Optimization approaches as a comprehensive unit and by the proposal of this novel procedure for the implementation of Total Site – Cleaner Production – Energy Efficiency – Optimisation approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have shown that positive and negative incentives can greatly promote cooperation in public goods games. The best policy for turning a population of defectors into a population of cooperators is to provide the “carrot” first and the “stick” later. Cleaner production (CP) is a new preventive environmental strategy, and its promotion is also an example of a public goods game. Voluntary participation and other positive incentives have been widely used to encourage industries to implement CP worldwide. However, taking into consideration specific industry characteristics and new environmental management requirements in China, the Chinese Cleaner Production Promotion Law proposes use of mandatory cleaner production audits (as compared to voluntary cleaner production initiatives) as innovative measures for advancing CP. This paper provides a general overview of this innovative system, explaining how the mandatory audit system was established and promoted in various policies, regulations, and national plans, and analyzing the design of the system. The paper also summarizes implementation results of the mandatory cleaner production audit system, based on annual surveys conducted in all provinces of China between 2008 and 2011. The Chinese experience can be used as a reference case by other developing countries similar to China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the reverse management of the textile industry, the recycling of waste textiles alleviates resource shortage and environmental pressure. The treatments mainly involve exports, second-hand transactions, resource recovery and energy recovery. The safety of the textile recycling industry is facing increasing criticism because of extensive sources and excessive reliance on manual operation. This has led to a desire to move towards harmless recycling of waste textiles, which will implement clean concepts and technologies to protect the health and safety of recyclers, operators and recipients. So far, commercial washing services can support sustainable use of waste textiles. In contrast, the cleaning for recycling as a resource has received little attention. Especially in frequent epidemics, a complete cleaning procedure for waste textiles holds great promise for the safety of the recycling environment. The comprehensive system of decontamination, disinfection and decolorization is defined as a broad sense of cleaning behavior. This paper reviews the application of various physical, chemical and biological technologies in the cleaning process, the influencing factors, technical difficulties and feasibility of each technology. Within the context of cleaner production, green decontamination has become a trend. Multi-disinfection can greatly improve the disinfection, reducing the overuse of disinfectants. Compared with bio-decolorization, ultrasonic technology, photocatalytic technology, electrochemical technology and ozone treatment, which are commonly used in decolorization of textile industry wastewater, show excellent feasibility in that of waste textiles. The review identifies gaps in the availability of combination mode, as without comprehensive data, further decisions cannot be made. The results presented in this paper must be viewed in a broader context of cleaner production: three-in-one is the most ideal production process. However, the results of this study will aid reasonable product framework for life cycle planning making by textile designers and recycling executors, as well as being of use to researchers. [Display omitted] • The operation mechanism of waste textile cleaning system is proposed. • Green washing relies on the optimization of washing conditions and water purification technology. • Biotechnology is not suitable for just-in-time industrial production of disinfection and decolorization in waste textiles. • The improvement of system efficiency needs combination, and three-phase integration is the ideal mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papermaking is regarded as an industry that consumes a great amount of energy and produces serious pollution. The papermaking industry in China, which has a large population and rapid economic development, is indispensable and presents a trend of rapid development. China and the rest of the world pay considerable attention to resource conservation and environmental protection. Therefore, determining how the papermaking industry can realize cleaner production and sustainable development is an urgent issue that should be addressed. This paper introduces Guangdong Silver Island Lake (GSIL) Papermaking Park, which realizes cleaner production and sustainable development by developing circular economy (CE). This park constructs a CE industrial mode by recycling energy, water, and materials. After 10 years of implementation, the CE plan of GSIL Papermaking Park has integrated the resources of the papermaking and power industries horizontally, thus forming the unique development mode of its CE. The resource consumption, resource comprehensive utilization, and pollutant emission indexes of the park have reached the advanced level in the papermaking industry of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The concept of Cleaner Production (CP) has been hailed for the several economic, environmental and social benefits it can provide. However, the implementation of CP programs continues facing problems and barriers, such as the lack of detailed information, tools and techniques that can be employed systematically to achieve the desired results. For instance, one notices a lack of investigations on the possibilities of using well-known tools such as Quality Tools (QTs) in order to successfully implement and maintain a CP program. This paper proposes a new CP methodology enhanced by a systematic integration of QTs that helps to overcome the aforementioned problems. An initial review on CP methodologies was complemented by a systematic review on the subject. The nine academic and industry practitioner methodologies obtained were later synthesized into a new CP methodology, which proposes a standard for the phases needed on a CP program and the terminology used for them. Then, some well-known quality tools and other measures based on the quality approach were evaluated and had their utilization proposed on each phase of this standard methodology. The results show 21 improvement opportunities on 9 of the 12 phases from the standard CP methodology established, including a set of 10 quality tools. The use of these tools can enhance nearly all steps of a CP methodology, namely the planning stage, crucial for the success a CP program. The authors conclude that the fact the standard methodology was developed based on the complementarity of nine other methodologies, while addressing some of their scope issues pointed out earlier makes up for a greater comprehensiveness and ease of implementation. Finally, the paper presents subjects for future research. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Even enterprises with very advanced management systems seldom monitor efficiency of energy usage and materials flows within their processes and have, therefore, difficulty to effectively manage their resource efficiency. This paper is built upon experiences from a pilot implementation of a new tool for promotion of energy management and cleaner production, developed within the Energy Management and Performance Related Savings Scheme project to promote an effective energy management system in industrial enterprises. The combination of soft managerial approaches (Monitoring and Targeting technical services) with financing provided on a no cure, no pay basis provided by Energy Service Companies, is the foundation for this new tool for promotion of energy management and cleaner production on no cure, no pay basis. It enabled us to test the introduction of cleaner production projects with no technical or financial risks for enterprises or for the need of financing from the side of the enterprises. Consequently, it removed some of the important barriers for implementing cleaner production. This paper distinguishes between auditing and accounting approaches in the promotion of cleaner production and argues that auditing approaches are not sufficient for completion of the learning needed for integration of cleaner production into the practice of an enterprise. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Agri-food industries have consumed the most water among all industries, placing great pressure on water resources; therefore, academics tend to focus on exploring the 'integrated' method of managing water in the agricultural production system. Based on a systematic literature review of 105 articles related to water stewardship in agri-food supply chains, this review tends to synthesize the themes in relation to water management, aims to identify research gaps in the existing literature and proposes a more integrated water stewardship framework in agri-food supply chains. Based on both the descriptive and thematic findings, this paper then develops a conceptual framework to synthesise the key themes in water stewardship in the agri-food supply chains, including drivers, water stewardship practice, consequences and barriers. Finally, gaps in the existing research are identified and related future research recommendation are proposed. The review contributes to cleaner production literature by providing a comprehensive framework for water stewardship (e.g., reduction of water consumption) in each stage of the agri-food supply chain and production. • Identify themes on water stewardship in agri-food supply chains. • Develops a conceptual framework to synthesise the key themes in water stewardship in the agricultural supply chain. • Identify existing research gaps and provides research directions to reach integrated water stewardship in the agri-food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food production and transformation have an increasing impact on the environment. Tools to help the agri-food industry improving its environmental performance whilst increasing the value of the products are highly needed. The present study proposes a new approach to calculate eco-efficiency that goes beyond the production costs, but accounts for the functional value of the foodstuff. Instead of using the monetary unit as the product value, we propose value-based metrics closer to consumer interests, such as content of functional nutrients, taste and abatement of harmful substances. The approach was applied to evaluate the eco-efficiency of de-acidified cranberry juice by two alternative technologies in Quebec: ion-exchange resin process and de-acidification by electrodialysis with a bipolar membrane. Both are compared to non-de-acidified cranberry juice. The parameters chosen to quantify cranberry juice are polyphenol content, product taste, and percentage of harmful acid removed. Results show ion-exchange resin de-acidified juice is less eco-efficient than non-de-acidified cranberry juice for polyphenol content and product taste indicator but shows better results for the removed harmful acid parameter. The electrodialysis with a bipolar membrane technology allows the extraction of organic acids in a usable form. We evaluated their re-utilization in four different contexts showing that this context choice might have a key impact on the eco-efficiency conclusion. The most eco-efficient scenario is the utilization of the removed acid in dried cranberry production with the addition of sugar beet. By using an approach closer to consumers' interests, eco-efficiency results can be more relevant for decision making in the context of cleaner production, particularly when the monetary value is not reliable. • This paper compares two deacidification processes for cranberry juice production. • Environmental performances are evaluated with life cycle assessment analysis. • Functional value is assessed in terms of taste, organic acid, polyphenol content. • The electrodialysis process is more eco-efficient compared to the resin process. • Using functional value allows overcoming the shortcomings of the cost analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cleaner production is a green production way to minimize emissions and waste as well as maximize product output. Cleaner production has proven itself as an effective way to reduce energy consumption and improve material utilization during the whole manufacturing process. However, the implementation of cleaner production strategy is facing barriers due to the lack of applying advanced technologies such as cloud manufacturing, Internet of Things, and cyber-physical system. Based on these advanced technologies, this paper presents an architecture of energy-cyber-physical system enabled management for energy-intensive manufacturing industries to promote the implementation of cleaner production strategy. An energy-cyber-physical system enabled green manufacturing model for the future smart factory is proposed. Then the qualitative and quantitative synergetic models based on energy-cyber-physical system are developed for cleaner manufacturing. Finally, an application of a partner company is presented to demonstrate the proposed framework and synergistic models. The results show that energy consumption can be greatly reduced using synergistic evaluation models. Further managerial implications are summarized to increase the level of synergy of energy-cyber-physical system, which can achieve cleaner production strategy by making energy-efficient decisions from different departments. • An architecture of energy-CPS enabled management is proposed to save energy. • Energy-CPS enabled intelligent model is proposed for green manufacturing. • Qualitative and quantitative synergetic models are developed for cleaner production. • The energy consumption can be reduced through the synergistic evaluation models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Toxic and hazardous sulfur dioxide (SO 2) residue reduction is not only one of the core issues in the preservation process with SO 2 solid antistaling agents in actual table grapes cold chain, but also one of the important ways to improve the cleaner production efficiency of the table grapes. The aim of this paper is to propose an improved preservation process for the table grapes in cold chain by combining the fumigation treatment with the slow-release SO 2 solid antistaling agent. The process was performed to reduce the toxic and hazardous SO 2 residue of the table grapes, improve the cleaner production efficiency of the cold chain, guarantee the quality and safety of the table grapes, and finally enhance the human health. The slow-release SO 2 solid antistaling agent was developed with no pricking holes and relatively stable release rate of the SO 2. According to the comprehensive analysis of the fumigation treatment condition determination, the slow-release SO 2 solid antistaling agent performance, the table grapes quality performance, the SO 2 residue performance and the evaluation on improved preservation process, the proposed improved preservation process with SO 2 residue reduction could effectively reduce the bleaching injury, the decay rate, the threshing rate and the toxic and hazardous SO 2 residue of the table grapes. There was no bleaching injury after the fumigation treatment at the optimal fumigation treatment conditions with 5000 ppm fumigation concentration and 20 min fumigation time. The maximization reduction range of the average decay rate and the average threshing rate of the table grapes was about 91.3% and 44.8%, while the maximization reduction range of the average SO 2 residue in table grapes peels was about 44.7%. The proposed improved preservation process could be extended for other cold chain applications to reduce their SO 2 residue and improve their cleaner production efficiency. Highlights • Proposing an improved preservation process for table grapes cleaner production in cold chain. • Reducing the toxic and hazardous SO 2 residue of table grapes. • Reducing the bleaching injury, decay rate, threshing rate of table grapes. • Improving the efficiency of the cleaner production to guarantee the quality of table grapes. • Enhancing the human health caused by the toxic and hazardous SO 2 residue of table grapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Cleaner production is the continuous application of an integrated preventive environmental strategy which stressed the importance of environment and human beings. Although the application of cleaner production is becoming more and more mature in different industries, since the complexity of the mining operation itself and its extensive and complex impacts on the ecological environment, the application of cleaner production in the mining industry encounters great challenges. For this purpose, the paper presents some developments and new insights of environmental problems and deep mining strategy for cleaner production in mines. Firstly, the general impacts on the ecological environment of mining industry and the current corresponding solutions as well as future prospects are presented. Secondly, the ecological environment pollution induced by tailings dam and its elimination approaches are reviewed. For the accelerating volume of tailings dam waiting to be processed, the exploration and research of the comprehensive utilization and treatment of tailings is expected to be more effective with larger consumption and wider range of application. The development direction is the establishment of mine without tailings. With the development of modern technology, some intelligent monitoring and warning technologies have helped the mining engineers to keep a vigilant eye on tailings dam continually. Finally, to convert the "harm" of four highs and one disturbance induced by the complex mechanical environment in deep mines into "benefit", various specific measures with relatively high novelty and sustainability are recommended. Moreover, the conception map of safer and more efficient exploitation of resources in deep mines is depicted for industrial best practice and future research directions to enhance cleaner production work in mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Urban water scarcity from ongoing drought and an increasing population are driving a range of water saving options to be explored in Melbourne (Australia). This paper assesses the cost effectiveness of five water treatment and industrial reuse options in the Fishermans Bend industrial area at Port Melbourne. In consultation with industrial stakeholders and the local water utility, the study design began by identifying potential water sources and sinks in the area. Treatment technologies for each option – using a combination of membrane bioreactors (MBR) and in some cases reverse osmosis (RO) technologies – were developed. In evaluating the potential for future implementation, the cost effectiveness ($/kiloLitre) was assessed relative to water supply augmentation and water demand management options available in Melbourne. Additionally, the opportunities and barriers for option implementation in Port Melbourne were contrasted with the Kwinana Industrial Area, Western Australia where many regional synergy projects have been undertaken. This research identifies that the future implementation of industrial ecology opportunities requires strong and ongoing stakeholder involvement as described in this paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: During the last decade, Sustainability Reporting (SR) has been increasingly adopted by corporations worldwide. This is evidenced by the adoption of several guidelines, such as the ISO 14000 series, the Social Accountability 8000 standard, and the GRI Sustainability Guidelines. SR shows promise to help corporate leaders and their employees to contribute towards achieving sustainable societies. However, most of the guidelines and standards address sustainability issues through comparmentalisation, thereby, leading to the separation of the economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Due to these divisive approaches, holistic assessments of the effects of their efforts are seldom properly integrated into coporate decisions and procedures to make improvements for example through Cleaner Production, Worker Health and Safety, Consumer Safety, and reductions in the negative short and long-term Social and Environmental Impacts. This paper analyses SR reports from three companies with the help of Grounded Theory''s constant comparative analysis. This analytical framework helped the authors to systematically assess the degree to which the companies addressed economic, ecological and social issues separately or in an integrated and inter-linked manner. From the inter-linkages found, a new category is proposed to be added to future SR. This new category can help corporate SR planners and researchers on sustainability reports to better understand how the company leaders understand their responsibilities with regard to SD. These inter-connectednesses are highly relevant in many short and long-term dimensions of supply chain management, global warming, ecological disruption and societal equity issues, especially with regard to the local, national and global energy issues of fuels and oils, the central themes of the conference at which this paper was originally presented. It also plays a key role in real, long-term changes towards Sustainability, where the time dimension plays a key role in human survival on Planet Earth. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract This paper provides a comprehensive review of literature on the properties of sugar industry waste, their varied uses in energy and construction sector, performance and limitations. An efficient upcycling of sugar industry waste in energy production would help the energy sector to reduce its dependency on non-renewable fossil fuels. Literature demonstrates that in the recent years there has been an increased research interest in thermochemical conversion of sugarcane bagasse to produce cleaner energy, rather than its landfilling or combustion. On the other hand, utilisation of secondary by-products from sugar industry in the production of cement, bricks, paver blocks, activated binder and other construction products helps to cut down the carbon footprint of the construction industry, while improving the properties of the final products. From the perspective of the sugar industry, such an arrangement eliminates disposal problems and creates additional revenue. Although independent research studies investigating the use of sugar industry by-products exist, few studies consider these valorisation options together to minimise waste and to create an efficient material flow chain. This study identifies various material and energy recovery pathways from published literature and connects the materials and processes to form a continuous material supply chain with minimum wastage. From the findings, a symbiotic framework has been developed with primary and secondary by-products from the sugar industry serving as source materials for energy production and sustainable construction products. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Utilisation of sugar industry by-products in various construction products is discussed. • Methods of cleaner energy production from sugar mill by-products are reviewed. • The symbiotic relationship between sugar, construction and energy industries is described. • A circular framework is proposed for sustainable valorisation of sugar industry waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Extensive research has examined the relationship between environmental management/performance and business performance but yielded no conclusive results. This paper makes two contributions to the literature. First, instead of focusing on one aspect, we try to compare using various types of cleaner production activities: low- and high-cost activities. Second, the study complements the existing literature which focuses on firms in developed countries with an analysis of firms in the Chinese manufacturing industry. In this paper, the relationship between cleaner production and business performance was analyzed using Structure Equation Model (SEM). We find an overall positive impact of cleaner production on firm''s business performance. We also found that the cleaner production activities of low-cost scheme have a bigger contribution to financial performance compared to non-financial performance, while cleaner production activities of high-cost scheme have a greater contribution to non-financial performance, compared to financial performance. This study should be useful for firms that consider adopting cleaner production as well as stakeholders who aim to promote cleaner production. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Water resource scarcity is becoming more and more serious and greatly restricts sustainable development in many locations. In this paper, the characteristics and implementation of a regional water resource sustainable utilization project in the Hai Hua Ecological Industry Pilot Zone (HHEIPZ) are described. In the project, a three-level water cycle pattern was built to relieve local water resource scarcity. The project was designed to suit the local context and operated at the individual firm level, the inter-firm level, and the regional level. The results show that the three-level water cycle was effective and provided sufficient and continuous water supply for sustainable local development. This paper also analyzes the main responsibility, impetus, and interrelation of the three cycles and gives some suggestions on how to further promote implementation of the three-level water cycle. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This issue of the Journal of Cleaner Production is based upon papers presented at the 1st International Workshop Advances in Cleaner Production (CP) held in São Paulo, Brazil, in 2007. The conference had the short-term purpose of deepening the Brazilian discussion on “The Roles of Cleaner Production in the Sustainable Development of Modern Societies”, and it had the long-term objective of providing an on-going interdisciplinary forum for knowledge development and exchange on Cleaner Production (CP) and Sustainable Development. This issue is devoted to papers covering a broad range of perspectives of CP practices and strategies. A special focus is placed upon methodological tools designed to support effective decision-making pertaining to quantitative benefits from CP. The ten papers provide insights from research designed to holistically integrate CP to help society make effective progress to sustainability. Papers cover the importance of informal knowledge, as complementary to formal knowledge, in performing effective ‘Environmental Impact Assessments.’ One paper explores the roles of radical and incremental innovation in the context of alternative automotive technologies. Benefits of Ecodesign are explored in two papers; one concerning its integration with remanufacturing to extend the life of used products and one focusing the adoption of ‘Emergy Environmental Accounting,’ as a complementary decision-making tool. The development of the Brazilian LCI database for ‘hydroelectric power generation’ and its contribution to support regionally relevant LCA studies is highlighted in one paper. The complete production chains of biodiesel and bioethanol are evaluated by using global methodologies, which help in the development of more objective and effective solutions. A “compensatory area”, calculated in terms of emergy, is proposed in order to work in a sustainable way for bamboo production. Finally, a paper about a novel approach for recycling used PET is also included. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This special issue of the Journal of Cleaner Production focuses on “Energy for Sustainable Future”. It is designed to mirror the increasing relevance of renewable energy sources and improved efficiency as crucial topics for practitioners in industry, for governmental policy makers, as well as for civic service providers, researchers, and educators. The purpose of this special issue is to serve as a catalyst for dialogue. The global warming related to CO2 emissions, coupled with steeply rising energy prices and the recent global financial institutional melt-down are causing massive societal concerns and give rise to increasing demand for ways to improve societal and individual energy efficiency and for ways to shift increasingly to alternative, low or non-carbon based energy systems. Until recently, industrial energy efficiency improvements have focused on improvements on efficiency rather than on the integration of renewable sources. The aim of this special issue is the identification of policies to support the development and implementation of technologies and management approaches we can employ to make the transition to more sustainable societies. The collection of papers in this special issue provide a foundation for students, researchers, scholars, practitioners and policy makers interested in making sustainable development more than a metaphor. The papers include focus upon ways for: [(a)] Improving industrial process to achieve improvements in energy efficiency. [(b)] Minimising waste disposals and reducing their impact through better management. [(c)] Reducing CO2 emissions by making progress toward lower carbon, renewable energy based systems, [(d)] Improving production of biofuels and hydrogen production systems, facilitated by employing cleaner production and novel LCA tools. [(e)] Improving integration of advanced materials and energy efficient equipment in different industrial sectors. Current and future developments in national and world economies are closely connected to sustainable, efficient and safe usage of raw materials and upon energy based on cleaner production concepts and approaches that are ecologically and economically appropriate for the short and for the long-term future of society. These challenges have received considerable attention in the media and scientific journals over the last several years. The idea of developing a specialised conference focussed upon them was put forward on various occasions. Focus upon them became reality on the 5th and 6th May 2008 in the historic Castle of Veszprém, Hungary, the current premises of the Hungarian Academy of Science which hosted the Workshop. The Workshop was a stimulating event and an overwhelming success, with nearly 100 contributors from Africa, North America, Asia and Europe, representing 28 countries. After a comprehensive selection and thorough reviewing procedure 11 papers were selected for this special issue. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Lignin is a key structural constituent of lignocellulosic biomasses that have substantial untapped potential to substitute environmentally unfriendly and non-renewable fossil-based resources. Unfortunately, multifaceted composition, heterogeneity, and structural recalcitrance of the lignin are the biggest technical challenges for its effective deconstruction and bioconversions to an array of bio-based products, e.g., specialty chemicals and biomaterials. Physicochemical methods for lignin depolymerization require strict reaction conditions, high energy to execute processes, and environmental apprehensions. In contrast, biological platforms harnessing the catalytic potentiality of microorganisms and their robust enzymatic armory are thought to be efficient means for lignin decomposition. Enzymes, derived from natural origin, are highly proficient and eco-friendly biocatalysts that manifest high selectivity, require milder reaction conditions, and reduce resource requirements. The utilization of enzymes for lignin conversion and pre-treatment of biomass for detergent, textile, pulp and papers, and food sector applications has been investigated for decades. Herein, we reviewed lignin bioconversion by biological means, focusing on ligninolytic enzyme-assisted pretreatment approaches. In the first half, we outlined the lignin as a multipurpose raw feedstock, fixation of CO 2 to lignin biosynthesis and tailored lignin approach, and sources and types of lignin. The bio-based pre-treatment approaches for lignin depolymerization, including white-rot fungi, brown-rot fungi, bacteria, and ligninolytic enzymes, i.e., manganese peroxidase (MnP) lignin peroxidase (LiP), Laccase (Lac), versatile peroxidase (VP), and dye-decolorizing peroxidases (DyP) are thoroughly vetted in the second half. [Display omitted] • Lignin valorization is discussed to meet sustainable and cleaner production. • Biomass transformation potential of ligninolytic armory has become new frontiers. • Sources and potential applications of valorized lignin in various industries are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This editorial was designed to summarize the contents and key theoretical aspects highlighted in this Special Volume (SV) on "Industry 4.0, Cleaner Production and Circular Economy: An Agenda for Ethical Business Development". The authors briefly reviewed the concepts of Industry 4.0 (I4.0), Cleaner Production (CP) and Circular Economy (CE) that provide the basic foundation for this SV. A summary of the key theoretical themes, which guided and motivated the authors to submit their articles the SV was presented next. The editorial highlights the main outcomes of the selected papers in the SV. Twenty-one papers were selected that are grouped in five categories. The categories are- I4.0 application based, approaches, decision-support based tools, policy-based research, empirical investigations, and procedural synergies from integrated implementation of I4.0 and CE concepts and approaches. In the context of these categories, the 'decision-based category' was the most frequently represented in the submitted papers. Because the systematic integration of I4.0 tools and approaches with CE, and CP is still in a nascent stage, the contributions of this SV will certainly be helpful for industry, academicians and society. One very interesting aspect of this SV were the contributions, based on the actual benefits of integrated implementation of I4.0 for CE and CP. There is a huge gap and lack of such applications based research in the literature which this SV highlights in several ways. Finally, the main theoretical dimensions and the practical approaches adopted by the SV's authors are reviewed. This editorial was concluded with a summary of the corporate managerial implications presented in the papers of this SV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper is based upon the understanding that fundamental disciplines of human knowledge such as chemistry, ecology, sociology, geology, economics, engineering or politics, cannot, by themselves, provide the sufficient and necessary solutions to complex problems of sustainability. The paper, therefore, presents an integrated knowledge approach to sustainability policy on industry with the understanding that the essence of such an approach is to enable and support stewardship for building a sustainable society by transcending the conflicts between the paradigm of economics and the paradigm of ecology. This is done by testing the complementarities of three functional modes of knowledge (contextual, technological, and reconciliatory) in actuating the policy science of sustainability. This is based upon an analysis of surveys on CP implementation motives, CP technologies and CP policies. The paper colludes with the finding that even when provided with impressive amounts of data, information and supportive opinion on specific sustainability issues, a society that is not sufficiently cognizant of the necessary knowledge synthesis processes will be unlikely to gain momentum in moving forward in the development, implementation and on-going support of industrial sustainability policy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Taiwan, a small island country located in the southeastern rim of Asia, is playing a vital role of mitigating hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) mitigation, although it is not a signatory to the Montreal Protocol. Furthermore, the Government has established a ministry-level organization, National Council for Sustainable Development (NCSD), for pursuing sustainability in this country and fulfilling its responsibility as a member of the international community. In this paper, the description was thus centered on reviewing the current uses of HCFCs and its current consumption status and cleaner production measures adopted by the local industries in Taiwan, and summarizing the governmental policies on promoting HCFCs mitigation through the encouragement of regulatory, economic and financial approaches. The preliminary analyses of the achievements of HCFCs mitigation in comparison with other relevant socioeconomic statistics were also discussed in this paper. It was concluded that Taiwan was in a positive trend to mitigate HCFCs consumption in the past decade (1996–2005) under the promotion of its policy framework. Further, the successful case could be developed into a sustainable development indicator in the environmental pollution dimension, thereby providing a demonstrated example for other island and developing countries in progress toward global sustainability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Despite the promotion of Cleaner Production (CP) by government, academia and research institutions in the past few years, only a small number of Vietnamese industries have adopted it. This paper explores why CP has not been widely adopted by industry through an examination of the root causes preventing effective CP implementation in Vietnam. The paper concludes with possible directions for improving the effectiveness and sustainability of CP programs in Vietnam through training and education. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This is the second in a two-part paper that discusses the results of an evaluation of a multi-company, multi-sector ‘cleaner production’ (CP) or ‘pollution prevention’ (PP) demonstration project undertaken in New Zealand (NZ). Part I provided an overview of the demonstration project and the evaluation methods, and discussed the limitations of the project in terms of commitment and on-going improvement. This part discusses further limitations, specifically as they relate to leadership, support, communication and involvement within participating businesses. Part II also considers the issue of standardisation, suggesting that CP/PP programmes be designed so that they are compatible with the needs, activities and culture of each participating organisation. These further limitations are discussed in terms of key developments in organisation theory with the intent of providing insight into how outcomes could be improved. Part II also compares the extent to which areas for improvement are covered in traditional CP/PP programmes and common change management models. The paper concludes with the presentation of a framework that could potentially be used to overcome the limitations discussed in both papers. The framework draws on a range of change management models and focuses on the need for CP/PP programmes to bring about an iterative, critically reflective cycle of learning. The framework components include: a diagnostic phase (to enable the programme to be customised); visioning (to engage and involve all staff); iterative use of the vision (to motivate, inspire and drive continuous improvement); distinctive tasks (to enhance involvement); participatory design of the programme (to enhance commitment); and inclusion of top level managers at key stages in the process (to maximise leadership, commitment, progress and support). While the framework is suggested as an alternative to traditional CP/PP change management models, it is not intended to be prescriptive. It is intended rather to elicit critical reflection amongst practitioners and to encourage them to adopt a more strategic approach to their work with businesses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This is the first in a two-part paper that discusses the results of an evaluation of a 2-year ‘cleaner production’ (CP) demonstration project undertaken in New Zealand (NZ). The project''s scale and methods were consistent with international best practice and the methods used were consistent with those advocated in traditional CP or ‘pollution prevention’ (PP) guides and manuals. On the surface, the project could be considered to have been successful. Like other apparently successful demonstration projects carried out elsewhere, the demonstration businesses identified a range of options that improved their environmental, economic and social performance (including savings of over NZ$4 million per annum, and significant reductions in materials, water and energy use, and improvements in productivity). However, a more in-depth evaluation of the project raised significant questions about the ability of traditional CP/PP programme components to bring about durable change. The evaluation identified a set of key internal organisational factors that strongly contributed towards the uptake of CP and affected the potential for on-going improvement. They were commitment, leadership, support, communication, staff involvement and programme design. This part of the paper (Part I) provides an overview of the project, as well as the methodology used in the evaluation. It also includes a discussion of the results particularly as they relate to commitment and on-going improvement. Part II discusses the remaining key internal organisational factors. It also presents a framework that could potentially be used to enhance the performance of CP or similar types of programmes, particularly with regard to the key factors identified. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The most pressing environmental problems of post-mining base metals production are solid waste production, gaseous emissions, and a high energy use. Most of the present solutions to clean up the post-mining base metals production can be characterised as incremental, end-of-pipe technologies. More sophisticated, radical solutions are scarcely implemented.The purpose of this study is to identify the barriers that impede the implementation of more radical solutions, with the aim to design strategies towards cleaner production in the base metals producing industry. The paper conceptualises the radicalness of a technological innovation, and presents the current base metals production processes, their environmental impact, and cleaner technologies. The most important barriers for radical innovations appear to be the cost of investment, the high risk involved in committing capital to unproven technology, and the intertwinement of the current production system. The paper presents firm-internal, inter-firm and firm-external strategies to overcome these barriers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]