Articles tagged with Environmental Economics
A study published in Natural Resources Forum found that renewable energy production reduces carbon dioxide emissions in OECD countries but increases them in emerging economies. Economic growth also enhances environmental quality in both sets of countries, while institutional quality is linked to fewer emissions in OECD countries.
A team of researchers at Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology developed a new simulation model to study the cultural evolution of collective property rights. The model shows that these institutions critically depend on clearly defined and enforced access rights.
Researchers found that fishers' operational decisions and social structures play a crucial role in adapting to climate change. Cooperatives can be resilient to short-term shocks, but small-scale cooperatives may become more vulnerable as climate change progresses.
A new study suggests Mexico can grow its economy by building biorefineries to produce biofuels, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals from abundant organic waste materials. The research promotes the adoption of sustainable practices to achieve UN Sustainable Development Goals 8-12.
A new study reveals that introducing a simple, renewable chemical to the pretreatment step can make next-generation biofuel production cost-effective and carbon neutral. A CELF biorefinery can more fully utilize plant matter than earlier methods, resulting in sustainable aviation fuel at a break-even price of $3.15 per gallon.
A Chinese Medical Journal study examined the spatiotemporal features of disease burden due to air pollution across China between 2005 and 2017. The findings revealed a downward trend in premature mortality from fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone (O3) pollution, but an increasing financial burden due to economic growth.
A study from Chalmers University of Technology found that the production and use of ammonia as a marine fuel can lead to eutrophication, acidification, and emissions of potent greenhouse gases. Researchers warn that the pursuit of low-carbon fuels may create new environmental challenges.
A study by Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona finds that big oil companies are relentless in expanding their extractive operations, deploying new technologies and seeking favorable locations. This leads to significant social and environmental costs, with local communities fighting against extraction activities.
Researchers found that with sufficient financial incentives and educational resources, many agave farmers are willing to adopt sustainable cultivation practices that allow for some natural flowering and seed production. This can help protect genetic diversity and benefit bats pollinating the flowers and feeding on the nectar.
A new UCF study found that the 2018 Florida red tide bloom caused $2.7 billion in losses to tourism-related businesses, with low concentrations having a significant economic impact. The research highlights the importance of risk management tools for individuals and businesses affected by harmful algae blooms.
A new study by ICTA-UAB shows that pursuing higher economic growth may jeopardise the Paris goals and leave no viable pathways for humanity to stabilise the climate. Slower growth rates make it more feasible to achieve the Paris goals, with lower economic growth reducing CO2 emissions by 10-13% by 2030.
A study published in Nature predicts that climate change will lead to a 9% loss of ecosystem services by 2100, with the poorest 50% of countries expected to bear 90% of the damages. The study's findings highlight the importance of accounting for natural systems and human well-being within economic frameworks.
A cross-disciplinary study from the University of Cambridge reveals that a drought in southern California in the mid-1970s led to the explosive rise of professional skateboarding culture. The authors argue that small environmental changes can have profound effects on human behavior, stimulating cultural and technical innovation.
Researchers propose three methods to meet EU climate goals: a carbon removal bank, extended land use regulation, and clear identification of difficult-to-tackle emissions. These measures aim to incentivize companies and countries to invest in new technologies and reduce emissions.
A new study from the University of Exeter emphasizes the importance of shared community spaces in addressing gentrification and its effects on rural communities. Dr. Joanie Willett's research found that these spaces can foster relationships, knowledge-sharing, and community action to adapt to changing futures.
A new paper from climate economists at the University of Oxford identifies sensitive intervention points that could unlock significant progress towards the Paris Agreement with the least risk and highest impact. These include critical tipping points in renewable energy, networks of powerful political figures, and windows of opportunity...
African nations could see an additional $37 million in profit each year by raising access fees for their fisheries. This would lead to an increase in fish biomass and a more sustainable operation. However, challenges include differing interests and objectives among governments and varying conditions of different fisheries.
A recent study published in ScienceDirect found hundreds of toxic chemicals in recycled plastic pellets from 13 countries. The findings highlight the risks associated with recycling plastics and the need to phase out harmful chemicals. The researchers urge policymakers to take action to limit hazardous chemicals in plastics.
Researchers improved biomass-related traits in sheepgrass using a custom genome editing system, revealing its potential for rapid genomic breeding. The study increased understanding of sheepgrass genomics and established a precedent for its genetic improvement.
Research reveals correlation between financial sector risks and increased carbon footprint in bank loans, hindering humanity's progress towards a green economy. The study analyzed CFBL data for 37 countries from 2010 to 2018, finding that systemic risk within the banking sector raised the CFBL in developed countries.
A researcher from Göttingen University advises on overcoming difficulties faced by mining communities in transition, suggesting a three-step approach centered around stakeholder collaboration. This approach combines early planning, local-based solutions, and targeted investments to foster economic and workforce transformation.
Researchers warn that greenwashing poses a threat to achieving a 'nature positive' world, where environmental decline halts and biodiversity improves. The University of Queensland study emphasizes the need for standards and transparency to distinguish genuine efforts from misleading claims.
Deforestation contributes to climate change, producing 6-17% of global greenhouse gas emissions. New satellite-based technology tracks forest change globally, enabling policymakers to understand the problem and develop solutions.
A growing body of researchers question the feasibility of green growth, preferring post-growth theories that prioritize sustainability and social justice. Climate policy experts from high-income countries are most skeptical of green growth, while those from non-OECD nations support it.
The UK National Clean Maritime Research Hub aims to accelerate the decarbonisation of maritime activity in ports and at sea. The hub will carry out innovative research in sustainable marine fuels and their safe use, low-carbon power and propulsion systems for shipping.
A recent study published in Ocean and Coastal Management found that the public perception of plans to combat oligotrophication in the Seto Inland Sea is more positive than expected. The survey revealed that respondents were unfamiliar with nutrient supply measures from factories and sewage treatment plants, but presented information si...
Researchers confirm invasive red fire ant species Solenopsis invicta has established itself in Sicily, with potential to spread across Europe due to climate change. Urban areas are particularly at risk, and the team plans a multi-year treatment plan to eradicate nests and monitor the ants' spread.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and others have developed new analytical frameworks to measure climate change impacts and adaptation. Their studies suggest that correcting market failures can incidentally induce climate adaptation, with significant welfare benefits.
A Dartmouth-led study reveals the devastating impact of gold and mineral mining on tropical rivers worldwide. Mining operations have doubled suspended sediment concentrations at 80% of affected rivers, altering river ecosystems and threatening human health.
Researchers found no effect of LEED certification on average energy consumption in federal buildings, with energy use just one of six attributes scored under the program. Tradeoffs between attributes, such as water scores and sensors, accounted for the lack of energy savings.
Researchers at the University of New Hampshire found that pregnant women living in walkable areas engage in more physical activity and have fewer issues with pregnancy complications. The study also suggests that walking can have health benefits beyond exercise, such as social interactions and community engagement.
Environmental regulators should use scientific experimentation to inform natural resource policy, according to an international group of economists. By conducting experiments and analyzing results, policymakers can create more effective programs and reduce uncertainty about what works and what doesn't.
A recent study by Esther Blanco found that landowners in Colombia continued to protect their ecosystems even after receiving payments for ecosystem services ended. This challenges the concern that monetary incentives can displace original motivations for environmental protection, known as the 'crowding out effect'.
A new study by Dr Taikan Oki estimates the total cost of climate change between 2010 and 2099 to be $46-230 trillion US dollars. The research team found that reducing climate change often incurs costs similar to or exceeding financial benefits, highlighting the need for prioritizing biodiversity and health factors.
A study by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found that institutional investors demand disclosure of climate risk due to its impact on a company's health and performance. The survey of 439 institutional investors showed that mandatory disclosure has an effect on investors' decisions.
A new University of Colorado Boulder study finds that reducing food loss and waste could lead to increased access to affordable food worldwide, but at the cost of reduced environmental benefits. The study suggests that more food availability would result in lower prices, leading to changes in consumer behavior.
A study by the University of Illinois examines how family forest landowners in Maine and New Hampshire approach invasive species management. The researchers found that landowners prefer mechanical control methods, which are more expensive but less effective than chemical control, due to strong neighborhood effects. This has implication...
A recent study led by McGill University estimates that the European Union will face significant economic losses due to biological invasions, with costs projected to reach over €142.73 billion by 2040. The study highlights the need for effective management and collaboration to address this threat.
Researchers from the University of Portsmouth found that biodegradable fishing gear (BFG) does not significantly reduce the cost of ghost fishing due to decreased fishing efficiency. The study suggests that implementing BFG could still have economic benefits, but only if it can achieve similar fishing efficiency as traditional gear.
New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) has been awarded $10 million by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide technical assistance for brownfield site redevelopment across Region 2 and 4. The program aims to empower communities to assess, clean up, and redevelop contaminated sites into sustainable assets.
A new study finds that investing in nature can turn economic losses into gains, especially for the world's poorest countries. The research combines a global economic model with ecosystem service models to capture interactions between humans and the environment, highlighting the importance of public goods and services provided by nature.
Researchers at Lancaster University demonstrate the viability of tidal power as a predictable renewable energy source. The creation of a tidal barrage could operate for 120 years or more to meet future demand and storage problems, protecting coastal areas from flooding and sea level rise.
Researchers found that countries relying on a broader range of energy sources experience longer recovery times. However, the extent of reliance on renewable energy consistently accounted for a major proportion of the variability in economic recovery time.
A new study quantified the economic costs of biological invasions in the European Union, revealing substantial knowledge gaps and alarming underestimations. The research projected unreported costs to be potentially 501% higher than currently recorded, reaching a staggering €26.64 billion.
A study by University of Waterloo researchers reveals that Canada's carbon price regime exposes high-emitting industries to significant default risks, with assets worth $256 billion at risk. Financial lenders must consider carbon emissions in credit risk assessments to mitigate this risk.
A recent study from the University of Eastern Finland reveals that most sustainability scholars support post-growth pathways for affluent countries, while less affluent countries favour either green growth or post-growth pathways. The study's findings challenge the prevailing green growth focused approach and emphasize the need for tar...
A study in Brazilian cities highlights the need for adapted nature-based solutions (NbS) to address environmental inequality. Municipal administrators are aware of NbS, but lack clarity on how to prioritize decision-making.
A new study from the University of Waterloo highlights four strategies to enhance equity and justice in climate action planning: modifying strategies, designing collaborative spaces, addressing gaps between words and actions, and considering underlying social processes. By prioritizing vulnerable populations and local actors, urban gov...
A survey of philosophers found broad agreement with economists on valuing the environment of the future in climate policy. The study suggests a long-term social discount rate of 2%, which is supported by UN climate targets and results in temperature changes of around 1.4◦C by the end of the century.
A new study by Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and Mercator Research Institute finds that the current difference between savings and lending rates results in additional global heating of 0.2 degrees Celsius. Governments can effectively counteract high interest rates on loans by subsidising investment, leading to more foss...
Researchers investigated California's oil extraction impact on health and jobs, finding setbacks reduce emissions but lead to job losses. Policies like carbon taxes and excise taxes aim to curb production while minimizing economic harm.
A recent study by Dartmouth researchers finds that global economic losses from El Niño can persist for several years after the event, with a significant impact on the world's poorest nations. The study projects total losses of $84 trillion for the 21st century, highlighting the need for climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Researchers developed a framework to estimate economic benefits of urban parks, finding improved mental health and air quality lead to significant cost savings. The Quaker Foods City Square park in Peterborough, Ontario, yielded estimated annual benefits of over $4 million, justifying financial investment.
A study by the University of Bonn found that paper-based packaging received significantly better environmental scores than bioplastics, but respondents were skeptical about its practicality. Meanwhile, conventional plastic packaging scored worst on eco-friendliness.
Researchers found that commercial properties in New York and Boston traded at lower values after Hurricane Sandy, despite no direct damage. This shift in perception is likely due to professional investors responding to changing flood risk perceptions post-Sandy.
A new analysis by Duke University researchers finds that 17% of US households face growing water affordability challenges, affecting nearly half the population. The study recommends solutions such as utility customer assistance programs and policy reforms to address income inequality and infrastructure costs.
Researchers in Brazil and UK develop process to recycle plastic from used coffee pods into conductive and non-conductive filaments. The filaments have various applications, including sensors and machinery parts.
A new study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that children with supportive environments fared better than those living in neighborhoods with economic hardship. Higher EHI scores were associated with lower cognitive abilities and greater decline after treatment, especially in math skills.
A climate-resilient bean genome unveiled potential to boost food security in drought-prone regions through improved genetic diversity and productivity. The sequencing of the hyacinth bean provides opportunities for targeted breeding to reduce anti-nutritional properties and increase its cultivation.
Researchers developed a suite of tools to assess economic benefits of improving urban stream water quality. The 'ecological production function framework' estimates use and non-use benefits, including increased property values and protected natural resources.