Articles tagged with Environmental Economics
A recent study finds that artificial intelligence has a negligible effect on global greenhouse gas emissions. The researchers' analysis of US energy consumption and AI use across industries revealed that the energy usage from AI in the US equals the energy consumption for all of Iceland, but not noticeable on a global scale.
A study analyzing US birth records found that a cap-and-trade initiative to reduce ozone pollution significantly improved infant health outcomes, including higher birth weight and lower rates of low birth weight and very preterm birth.
Researchers developed a new model to simulate and project China's agricultural non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions, identifying priority regions and subsectors for mitigation. The study found that current mitigation efforts achieve only 26-45% of the total technical potential, with significant room for improvement.
A new study finds that wetlands along the Mississippi River Basin effectively clean up nitrogen runoff from agricultural fields. The researchers show that restoring these wetlands can lead to significant savings for local drinking water treatment facilities, with potential annual benefits of $200 million.
A new study published by Yonsei University reveals that air pollution is a significant contributor to workplace accidents, increasing the risk of accidents and fatalities by 2.6 times when PM2.5 concentrations double. The study estimates economic losses of up to $10 billion annually.
A food tax shift could reduce premature deaths and disease by 700 annually and 700,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions in Sweden. The study shows that selective taxes on unhealthy foods can lead to healthier diets without increasing the average price of groceries.
A new study offers a risk management approach to assess carbon removal portfolios and their potential to limit global warming over centuries. The framework suggests combining nature-based carbon storage like forestry with technology-based solutions like Direct Air Capture can provide long-term temperature stabilization.
The research emphasizes the importance of coordinating China's multi-level carbon markets in the context of global carbon pricing. Local pilot markets are seen as experimental fields for innovation, covering small enterprises and promoting regulatory experimentation.
Experts recommend climate policies that combine environmental effectiveness with economic efficiency and fairness, depending on a country's level of economic development. The study suggests CO2 tax over quota trading in high-income countries, but quota trading is preferred in low-income countries.
A major new study proves that hydropower is a leading force in cutting carbon emissions, with the potential to reshape sustainable development in Southeast Asia. The study found that as hydropower consumption increases, CO2 emissions drop significantly, while reliance on fossil fuels drives emissions upward.
A comprehensive study by UC Riverside's School of Public Policy found that agricultural conservation programs saved water at a low cost per acre-foot, while new supply efforts were more expensive. The analysis showed that 80% of the Colorado River's water is consumed by agriculture, and incentive programs can deliver meaningful savings.
A new gas-solid separation method promises cleaner and cheaper recycling of critical elements. The technique uses flash Joule heating to extract REEs in seconds without water or acids, achieving over 90% purity and yield for REE recovery.
Economist Andrea Titton's models show that acting cautiously on climate change is cheaper than taking the gamble of hitting a tipping point. Preparing for climate disasters can disrupt supply chains and cost trillions annually, but investing in green energy now may be more cost-effective.
Researchers found little evidence of disproportionate siting in Black counties, but a growing share of the Black population over time. Long-term demographic shifts after power plant openings led to higher Black population shares, with an average rise of 4% in 50-70 years.
A study by Utrecht University researchers found that previous fairness and ambition assessments were biased, rewarding high emitters at the expense of vulnerable ones. The proposed method avoids delaying emission reduction obligations and calculates immediate ambition gaps that can be filled by climate measures and international finance.
Methane emissions from global trade have risen by 30% since 1990, driven by rapid industrialization and population growth in Asia and the developing Pacific region. The study calls for targeted sectoral strategies to reduce emissions, including advanced leak detection and improved livestock feed formulations.
Researchers analyzed interplay between environment and income inequality, identifying theoretical mechanisms and empirical evidence. The study suggests that good climate policy can promote social balance by increasing labour productivity and wages.
A study by University of Birmingham researchers found that corporate net-zero pledges often lack the substance needed to drive real change. Many companies use vague language and focus on direct emissions, omitting substantial indirect emissions generated by their products.
A major new study quantifies the health impacts of outdoor air pollution from US oil and gas activities, revealing widespread disparities in exposure and health burden across racial and ethnic groups. The research estimates 91,000 premature deaths annually, with Black, Asian, Native American, and Hispanic populations most affected.
A new IIASA study highlights the critical role of socioeconomic conditions in shaping wildfire economic losses. By adopting sustainable development pathways, countries can reduce wildfire-related damages by up to 2% of GDP in low-income nations.
A recent study estimates that scuba diving generates $0.9 to $3.2 billion in annual revenue, employing 124,000 people, 80% of whom are locals. This industry funding supports marine conservation initiatives and boosts local economies.
ShadeLA aims to reduce heat risk by expanding tree canopy and shade infrastructure in key public spaces, targeting major sporting events and heat waves. The initiative builds on USC's Urban Trees Initiative and engages community-based organizations to create locally driven solutions for a more comfortable L.A.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University analyze historical U.S. carbon emissions trends, identifying factors that contributed to changes and offering lessons for developing countries. The study suggests that investing in efficient technologies and avoiding overreliance on coal can help avoid pitfalls encountered by the United States.
A new study led by RMIT University found that restoring southern Australian reefs from urchin barrens is feasible and beneficial for improved water quality, fisheries, and carbon sequestration. Economic modelling showed an AU$50 million investment would return up to AU$92 million in economic benefits.
A new study suggests that afforestation may not be a viable method for offsetting carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel reserves due to spatial requirements and financial viability. The analysis found that planting trees on an area larger than North America would be needed to offset the potential emissions, raising concerns about d...
A new study from the University of Delaware and Columbia University found that plastic bag bans and fees can reduce plastic bag litter on shorelines by 25-47%, with more effective impacts at state-level policies. However, overall plastic pollution continues to grow, albeit at a slower rate in places with these policies.
The EU's industrial strategy faces criticism for its contradictions, which risk exacerbating climate, social, energy, and geopolitical crises. A new study calls for a fundamental rebalancing of the policy to prioritize public investment and green economic planning.
The national carbon market in China integrates economic theory with international experience, covering sectoral coverage, cap setting, allowance allocation, and the MRV system. The market faces challenges including lack of an official phased development roadmap and effective market stability measures.
Australians waste 7.6 million tonnes of food annually, with poor label design and inconsistent packaging being key reasons for this problem. Clearer date labels and storage advice could drastically reduce edible food waste.
A new study by Virginia Tech researchers found that large-scale solar farms have a complex impact on nearby property values. Agricultural land within two miles of the site saw a 19.4% increase in value, while residential homes lost an average of 4.8%. The negative impact was more pronounced in counties with conservative leanings.
Involving communities in nature-based solutions leads to innovation in design and quality, as well as people gaining greater benefits from green spaces. The study highlights the importance of citizen participation and consultation in NBS projects.
Subsidies to agriculture, fossil fuels, and other sectors cause significant environmental degradation, threatening biodiversity and public health. The study highlights the urgent need for a transformation of the current economic model to protect nature and ensure well-being.
A novel power system dispatch model optimizes thermal power, wind power, PV generation, and energy storage systems for cost reduction, carbon emission control, and stability enhancement. Increasing ESS capacity improves renewable energy utilization while mitigating power generation fluctuations.
The BRICS countries, accounting for 45% of global GHG emissions, need to transition towards cleaner energy to achieve carbon neutrality goals. The study's energy-economic model projects that non-fossil fuel share will reach 85% in some nations by carbon neutrality deadlines.
Researchers found that using rice malt instead of milled rice in beer brewing can decrease production costs by 2-12%. Malted rice also requires less crop-growing acreage, making it a viable alternative for craft brewers. The study suggests that malting could open up new markets for Arkansas rice and ensure its long-run sustainability.
Switchgrass, a perennial species, has been found to produce great quantities of biomass and perform important ecosystem services. Studies from the University of Illinois have identified economic and environmental considerations that make switchgrass suitable for sustainable aviation fuel production.
A new study by the University of Bath found that London's Low Emission Zones significantly reduced harmful pollutants, resulting in lower sick leave rates and improved mental well-being. The introduction of Ultra Low Emission Zones also delivered substantial cost savings.
Biomass is crucial for Europe's ability to reach its climate targets, providing both energy and negative emissions. Excluding biomass from the European energy system would increase costs by 169 billion Euros per year.
Xiamen University has joined the Bentham Science Institutional Membership Program to enable researchers to publish Open Access at concessionary rates in Bentham Science journals. The program promotes open research and fosters scientific advancements globally.
A new system, Amalur EIS, analyzes European industrial plant emissions and finds the energy sector generates 59.5% of total environmental impacts. Climate change has the greatest weight in Europe's total impact.
Researchers found that clothing rental companies in niche markets, such as sportswear, are more successful and sustainable. They identified key business models, including membership, subscription, and individual rental, and emphasized the importance of collaborations with suppliers and manufacturers.
A study by Tsinghua University researchers highlights the need for a strategic framework to achieve net-zero energy sector technologies in China. The team proposes three primary pathways to reduce emissions: improving efficiency, transitioning to zero-carbon energy sources, and implementing carbon capture technologies.
A new study by UGA researchers found that workers facing higher job risks are paid less, while those with worse working conditions are also less satisfied. The study suggests that employers should pay attention to employee happiness as it contains critical economic information.
A new study from the University of Surrey warns that delayed and disorderly energy transitions could lead to increased inflation, higher interest rates, economic stagnation, and financial instability. However, an orderly transition with targeted investments in green technologies and a robust financial framework can mitigate these risks.
A UC3M study found that family businesses exhibit greater environmental responsibility than non-family businesses. The research also revealed that companies with family involvement perform better financially when implementing sustainable practices.
A study by Prof. Dr. Heinz Welsch found that countries with higher per-capita income and emissions levels pursue more ambitious climate targets, but their populations are less willing to contribute to climate change mitigation. The study also found a correlation between the discrepancy and lower satisfaction with democracy.
A research project from Politecnico di Milano proposes a novel method to recycle used vegetable oil into valuable resources like bio-lubricants and air purification devices. The project optimizes waste treatment processes while reducing waste and promoting European independence in critical raw material supply.
A new study estimates that US agriculture needs a 5-8% per year growth in research investment or $2.2 billion to $3.8 billion in additional funding to maintain productivity through 2050. The urgency is driven by the impact of climate change, which takes time to be addressed through publicly funded research and development.
Perovskite LEDs have shown great potential for commercialization due to their lower costs and environmental impact. However, longevity remains a significant issue that needs to reach around 10,000 hours for a positive environmental impact.
Researchers from the University of Michigan found that line drying clothes could save households up to $2,100 in energy costs over their lifetime. The study also highlighted the importance of behavioral changes, such as running dryers during off-peak hours, and the varying emissions due to different regions' energy sources.
The VALOR project aims to understand the cascading impacts of pollinator shifts on ecosystems, farm businesses, and local communities. It will develop a comprehensive approach to gaining insights into the effects of pollinator changes on human well-being.
The research analyzed satellite images and machine learning to detect forest loss in Ukraine during the war. The study found that Ukraine lost over 800 km² of forests in 2022 and 772 km² in 2023, mainly due to fires in war-torn regions.
Researchers developed a sustainable process to recover valuable products from oilcane bagasse, generating multiple product streams. The process recovers anthocyanins and vegetative lipids for natural colorants and biofuel production, making the process more cost-effective and sustainable.
A study led by Alexandria Marquardt suggests that Virginia's oyster restoration practices are effective in increasing fishery sustainability and supporting local economies. The research shows that shell replenishment activities, combined with rotational harvests, result in improved reef structure and increased commercial harvests.
A study analyzes the carbon emission drivers in Belt and Road Initiative countries, finding that economic development and population growth are major contributors. The research also highlights the importance of reducing energy intensity and carbon intensity in middle and high-income countries.
A new study suggests adjusting VAT rates on food groups based on health and environmental impacts could lead to healthier diets, reducing cases of diet-related diseases. The proposal aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions and generate significant revenue for governments.
A new study from the University of Illinois explores how differences in ownership motivation affect willingness to control invasive plants and pests. The research suggests that providing subsidies to the weakest link, such as recreationist landowners, can optimize the effect of control efforts and reduce costs.
A new study estimates it would cost $15.6 billion per year for 30 years to prevent extinction for 99 of Australia's priority species, due to habitat destruction, invasive species, and climate change. The Australian Government has committed to reversing the decline of 110 priority species, but experts warn that urgent action is needed t...
Researchers found that sustainability certificates improve cocoa yield and income for small-scale producers, but have no effect on biodiversity in plantations. The study suggests that further biodiversity conservation measures are needed to achieve tangible environmental benefits.
The study reveals that battery production depends on over 35 materials and critical minerals, posing significant human health and environmental risks. Sustainable solutions like green energy systems, tailings backfilling, and circular economy strategies are proposed to mitigate these impacts.