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Greenhouse gas emissions and pollution emanating from fossil fuel-based vehicles present a major environmental problem worldwide. These problems are particularly pronounced and more challenging in developing countries. Electric vehicles are often touted as one solution to improving air quality in cities and reducing pollution. However, a smooth transition to electric vehicles in developing countries is not straightforward. This transition can be enhanced if the factors enabling and driving the adoption of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in developing countries are appropriately understood. However, our current knowledge, particularly regarding the manufacturing and servicing infrastructure required for BEVs, regulatory frameworks, and understanding of consumer demand in developing countries is still rudimentary. This paper develops a framework to explore the readiness of the upstream value chain players of BEVs in a developing country and provides a discussion on pathways for the transition. The framework builds on the Technology, Organization, and Environment (TOE) framework, as well as research on value chain analysis. Drawing on an analysis of original qualitative and quantitative data collected in Pakistan, which provides an interesting and relevant context for this research, the findings show that the transition to BEVs along the upstream value chain requires concerted development of technological capabilities and organizational capacity, as well as conducive policies, rules, and regulations. This paper develops and explains the relevance of the TOE framework in the unique context of upstream players in the value chain for BEVs. The key contribution of the paper is its development of a TOE-based structured instrument for measuring the readiness of upstream players in the BEVs value chain. The proposed framework serves as a diagnostic tool to track readiness for the adoption of electric vehicles in developing countries. In addition, the paper outlines possible pathways to enhance the transition to BEVs manufacturing. • TOE and value chain analysis provide valuable frameworks to understand challenges in the transition. • BEVs manufacturing is strongest in the organizational context, then technological & environmental contexts in Pakistan. • Strong upstream supply chains can make the transition easier. • Success in transition hinges on engaging the relevant stakeholders. • Phased manufacturing, nudges by government, and strategic collaborations can facilitate the transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Punjab is the largest province of Pakistan and consumes most of the national energy resources. Electricity is considered as one of the major needs of time. Planning problem in Power sector has given rise to unwanted electricity shortfall, inefficiencies, supply shortage and subsidization leading to circular debt etc. Major generation is from non-renewable energy sources resulting in higher emissions of greenhouse gases. This paper by using Long Range Energy Alternative Planning (LEAP) System forecasts electricity demand and compares four supply scenarios i.e., Business as Usual Scenario (BAUS), Coal Scenario (CS), Oil Scenario (OS) and Green Punjab Scenario (GPS) from the year 2019 till 2050. The results of the study indicate that electricity demand in 2050 would be 279.7 TWh for Punjab. GHG emission will be 45.5, 58.3 55.0 and 24.1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in BAUS, CS, OS and GPS respectively. The study suggests that the electricity generation from Green Punjab Scenario is the cheapest in terms of cost and it gives less than 50% of GHG emissions when it is compared with all other scenarios. Therefore, the energy sector of Punjab should be incentivized in electricity generation based on renewable resources in order to increase their contribution in overall energy mix and reduce global emissions. This research will be helpful for developing countries particularly of South Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, two brick kiln technologies—the Bull's Trench Kiln (BTK) and the Induced Draft Zigzag Kiln (ZZK)—were compared through a transdisciplinary approach by focusing on two questions: do ZZKs tend to be cleaner than BTKs? Will operating ZZKs generate any reasonable economic and social benefits? To answer the first question, stack emission samples were collected and tested from two kilns: a newly constructed ZZK in Punjab, Pakistan and a conventional BTK located close to the ZZK. To address the second question, a cost-benefit analysis of the two types of kiln technologies was conducted using primary data on input and output quantities and prices from the sample kilns. The environmental results show that the ZZK emitted significantly less amount of harmful gases and particulate matter compared to the BTK. The economic analysis demonstrates that ZZKs improve both private and social welfare in monetary terms compared to BTKs. Our findings provide a case for the adoption of ZZKs in developing countries and for environmental policymakers to facilitate the technology transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]