Articles tagged with Environmental Economics
The UNEP report highlights the need to decouple economic growth from resource consumption to achieve a sustainable future. Experts warn that current trends could lead to unprecedented levels of resource consumption by 2050, posing an existential risk to the planet.
Clemson University is conducting a design-feasibility study for a vertical farm in downtown Charleston, powered by solar and wind energy. The project aims to promote sustainable food systems and community connectivity.
A study found that restaurants 'cherry pick' parties by size, quoting longer wait times to undesired customers. This practice benefits small parties that spend more per person, and makes economic sense when there's excess demand for large parties.
A group of experts has identified 40 critical environmental questions to guide scientific research and inform natural resource management. These questions aim to balance economic, social, and ecological considerations, facilitating collaboration between researchers and policymakers.
Bats play a crucial role in reducing pesticide use and crop damage, with estimates suggesting their value to agriculture is roughly $22.9 billion annually. However, widespread bat population declines due to diseases like White-Nose Syndrome and wind turbine collisions threaten this ecological balance.
A new study suggests that fatality figures from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill may have been greatly underestimated, with a true death toll potentially 50 times higher. Marine conditions and far-off deaths mean recovered carcasses only account for a small proportion of fatalities.
A new statistical model helps regulators identify ships carrying unwanted species, enabling more effective screening of ballast water. The model's findings are published in Environmental Science & Technology, providing a promising solution to prevent bioinvaders from causing environmental damage.
A new integrative climate model recognizes the significance of human-induced causes, such as deforestation and agro-industry, in addition to carbon dioxide emissions. This approach aims to achieve a more effective and socially democratic climate policy, responsive to local conditions.
A recent economic recession has created a shortage of credit for small businesses, forcing many to rely on personal savings and household assets to stay afloat. This can put their personal assets at risk, warns MU researcher Tansel Yilmazer.
The Leopold Leadership Program selects mid-career researchers to engage policymakers, journalists, and business leaders with their research. Fellows receive training and networking opportunities to translate their knowledge into action.
A new life cycle assessment report from the Energy Biosciences Institute identifies seven grand challenges for biofuels, including understanding farmers, feedstock options, and land use, as well as characterizing tailpipe emissions and their health consequences. The report aims to provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating the en...
A global collaboration found that invasive plant species often have similar or lower abundance at introduced and native sites, challenging a common assumption. This suggests that biosecurity screening procedures need to be revised to address how species behave in non-native communities.
A €12 billion annual economic impact of invasive species worldwide and a new $4 million project will control invasive plants like giant hogweed in Ireland and Scotland's river catchments. The CIRB project aims to restore biodiversity and prevent environmental damage.
A global collaboration found that invasive plant species have similar or lower abundance at introduced versus native sites, challenging the 'abundance assumption'. This study used standardized protocols across over 60 sites worldwide to collect population and community data, providing a new approach to address critical ecological issues.
A special section in Ecological Economics analyzes ecological distribution conflicts, linking them to political ecology and social metabolism. The research explores the impacts of resource extraction and waste disposal on economic, environmental, cultural, and social conflicts.
A University of Maryland study assesses the feasibility of developing and operating wind farms in Maryland's Atlantic coastal waters. The study finds that offshore wind holds potential to help meet State Energy Targets, but addresses serious institutional impediments such as radar interference and transmission facility inadequacies.
A study analyzing 180 university campuses reveals that factors such as regulatory pressures, financial constraints, and stakeholder opinions significantly impact adoption of sustainable practices. Smaller institutions may benefit from subsidies or technical assistance to adopt green initiatives and attract environmentally conscious stu...
China's rapid growth has led to significant environmental challenges with worldwide implications, emphasizing the need for a systems approach to tackle these issues. The country's biodiversity is threatened by extinction, and climate change requires global cooperation to develop low-emission industries.
Researchers at UNC Charlotte are using Charlotte as an ideal living laboratory to study urban growth and sustainability. The project aims to determine if there are possibilities for alternative futures where urbanization, forest, and working lands can co-exist in an economic and environmentally sustainable fashion.
Dr. Bogdan Strimbu, a Louisiana Tech University professor, organized a technical session at the IUFRO's XXIII World Congress in Seoul, South Korea. The session focused on the significance of mixed species forest ecosystems in social, economic and environmental areas.
Economists Santanu Roy and Lars J. Olson analyze the balance between controlling invasive species and free trade, finding that some restrictions may be necessary to prevent economic damage while allowing for entry when damages are low. Their study provides a qualitative framework for policymakers to determine optimal response strategies.
Mayor John Fetterman will receive the ESA's Regional Policy Award for his commitment to sustainability, revitalizing the town of Braddock through environmentally-friendly building design. The award recognizes Fetterman's innovative approach to green urban renewal and its potential economic benefits.
Research from Brigham Young University reveals that employees who telecommute and use flexible schedules balance their work and family life better than office workers. The study found that telecommuters can maintain a healthy balance for 57 hours per week, compared to 38 hours for office workers.
The New York City Panel on Climate Change (NPCC) reveals the city's comprehensive plan to adapt to climate change, focusing on energy, transportation, water, and communication systems. The report proposes flexible Adaptation Pathways to mitigate risks and provide win-win opportunities for city managers.
The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) study estimates annual Natural Capital loss to be between EUR 1.35 trillion - EUR 3.1 trillion, with coral reefs valued at US$ 172 billion annually. TEEB leader Pavan Sukhdev calls for decisive action to prevent biodiversity loss.
A Stanford University study found that public opinion experts' 'most important problem' question systematically underestimates Americans' priority on global warming and the environment. When reframed, however, this question reveals a significant increase in environmental concerns.
Scientists have developed yeast that efficiently converts a wider range of plant waste sugars into alcohols for biofuel production. The modified yeast can produce both ethanol and butanol, which could replace fossil fuels with superior properties.
A scientific study argues that sustainable economic degrowth is both desirable and unavoidable to mitigate climate change and the economic crisis. The study presents diverse proposals for social equity and ecological sustainability, challenging conventional economic thinking.
The American Chemical Society's top R&D official, Paul T. Anastas, emphasizes the importance of green chemistry in achieving sustainability. Green chemistry aims to incorporate 12 principles, including prevention of waste and use of safer chemicals, into product design and manufacture.
A Michigan State University scientist warns that China and India's growing economies and populations will significantly impact the global environment unless they work together. The two countries are urged to exercise environmental stewardship to ensure future economic growth.
This study investigates the impact of landscape position on biomass crop yield, finding that summit positions produce higher yields than flat areas. Corn stover yield is positively influenced by terrain slope, nitrogen, and soil darkness profile.
A major report by an international team of scientists and policy experts explores the social, economic, health and environmental impacts of the livestock industry. Key findings include the high greenhouse gas emissions from animal feed production and transport, which account for 18% of global emissions.
Binghamton University economist Zili Yang's book explores how game theory and integrated assessment models can help mitigate climate change by promoting cooperation among nations. His research argues that climate agreements should be fair and equitable, with industrialized nations contributing their share to address global warming.
Maryland adopts Genuine Progress Indicator to accurately measure standard of living, finding the traditional Gross State Product was 50% inflated by costs counted as benefits. The new index accounts for environmental and social costs, providing a more meaningful guide to policy.
A new report by the Ecological Society of America highlights the need to address potential effects of land-use choices on ecosystems. Native perennial crops, such as switchgrass, are recommended as an inexpensive feedstock option that improves soil quality and provides habitat for native species.
Researchers argue that biologically diverse plantations can alleviate social, economic and ecological pressures on natural forests. These plantations can sequester carbon, mitigate climate change and restore ecological services. Well-planned plantations can help preserve high diversity old-growth forests.
Climate experts propose international research and field-testing on solar-radiation management (SRM) to limit climate change impacts. SRM could offset this century's predicted global average temperature rise more than 100 times cheaper than cutting emissions.
The US liquid detergent market reached $3.1 billion in sales in 2009, driven by innovative eco-friendly products containing natural ingredients. Manufacturers are now offering specialty cleaners that reduce energy or water consumption, combining detergents with fabric softener and static reducers into single sheet-like products.
A team of experts found that knowing fish spawning habits and oceanographic models can increase both conservation and fisheries profitability. Spatial information is key to achieving this balance.
A new report highlights the benefits of reducing emissions from deforestation, including conservation of carbon and biodiversity hotspots. However, it also warns of challenges in implementing REDD without displacing agricultural activities in lower-carbon but equally biodiverse areas.
The report highlights the need for stronger institutional capacity and increased transparency to address climate finance bottlenecks. Development cooperation is crucial to ensure poor countries receive climate change funding on favorable terms.
A new University of Maryland study reveals that upgrading to energy-efficient natural gas furnaces and water heaters can save homeowners hundreds of dollars on average annual heating bills. The research also predicts the creation of over 80,000 jobs and a nine percent reduction in residential carbon emissions if state incentives encour...
The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) report suggests that policy makers can see higher rates of return and stronger economic growth by incorporating ecosystem services into investment strategies. By restoring and managing ecosystems, countries can generate significant income and jobs.
Researchers at Kansas State University are developing bio-based adhesives made from soybean, corn, sorghum and biomass fuels to replace environmentally hazardous materials. These adhesives could improve the economics of sustainable fuels and reduce air pollution.
Dr. John Bannister Goodenough, a pioneer in lithium-ion batteries, and Dr. Siegfried S. Hecker, a leading expert on plutonium metallurgy, are recognized for their groundbreaking work in materials science and nuclear energy. They will share the Enrico Fermi Award, a prestigious US Government honor.
Professor Nicole Darnall's report provides a 'road map' for the new administration to encourage widespread green production. The report recommends strategies such as mandatory environmental product labels and online sustainability tools to help businesses implement eco-friendly practices.
Agricultural scientists at TUM created indicators and models to analyze, assess and optimize the sustainability of agricultural enterprises. The new indicator model describes farms as systems based on their material and energy flows, enabling accurate calculations of emissions, climate balance and biodiversity.
A new study by Oregon State University professor JunJie Wu found that senior management's environmental values are a leading factor in firms' decisions to over-comply with environmental regulations. Facilities making products sold directly to consumers or offering services are less likely to violate regulations.
The University of Puerto Rico's Caribbean Regional Association is receiving $899,826 in grant funding to continue supporting ocean observing efforts in the Caribbean. This project will contribute to improving safety, economic growth, and environmental protection by providing enhanced observation products for the region.
The paper suggests measures to manage ocean acidification's impact on commercial fisheries, including flexible fishery management plans and support for fishing communities. Ocean acidification is expected to damage corals, mollusks, and shellfish, altering food webs and intensifying competition among predators.
The 2009 Greendex survey reports an increase in environmentally friendly consumer behavior in 13 of the 14 surveyed countries. Top-scoring consumers are in developing economies like India, Brazil, and China, while American and Canadian consumers rank last.
The Commission for Environmental Cooperation releases guidelines to assess and mitigate the risks of aquatic invasive species, which can cause significant environmental harm and economic losses. The guidelines aim to promote preventive measures and harmonized actions among North American countries.
The EPA P3 award winners are recognized for their sustainable designs, including integrated aquaculture systems and solar thermal combined cycles. These projects demonstrate the potential for economic growth and environmental sustainability to coexist.
Research highlights potential for green economy to stimulate employment and reduce carbon emissions during recession. Experts propose tax reform and low-carbon investment incentives to support sustainable growth.
A study found that villages with wider mangroves experienced significantly fewer deaths than those without them during a 1999 super cyclone in India. Mangroves cut the death toll by about two-thirds.
A national survey reveals that only one-in-five American adults can answer three basic science questions correctly. This lack of scientific literacy poses significant challenges to addressing pressing issues like climate change and resource management, emphasizing the importance of investment in science research and education.
The University of Chicago is launching a large-scale collaboration to develop a computational modeling tool that will help policymakers make informed decisions on climate and energy policy. The new framework, CIM-EARTH, will analyze and predict the effects of climate policy decisions on the global economy.
A recent study by Arizona State University's Charles Perrings highlights the substantial economic impact of invasive species on agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and ecosystems. In some countries, such as South Africa and Brazil, invasive species account for up to 112% of agricultural GDP.
Incorporating native, perennial plants into biofuels production can significantly reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and improve water quality. The research aims to make biofuels economically and environmentally sustainable, with potential applications in other regions.
A study by the Wildlife Conservation Society found that middle-class communities in Eastern Africa have lower fish levels due to increased motorized fishing vessels and decreased cultural restrictions. In contrast, wealthy communities have healthier fish populations due to diversified economies and technological advancements.