Articles tagged with Environmental Economics
A new study estimates the environmental impact of 57,000 food products in the UK and Ireland, providing a first step towards enabling informed decision-making. The research finds that many meat alternatives have significantly lower environmental impacts than their meat-based equivalents.
A study found that economic crises moderate the relationship between environmental behaviour and various factors, such as motivation and effectiveness perceived by the consumer. In times of crisis, price has a significant impact on green activism and purchasing, while in well-being periods, distribution is more important.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that amphibian and reptile invasions cost the global economy at least $17.0 billion between 1986 and 2020. The majority of costs were attributed to American bullfrog and brown tree snake invasions, highlighting the need for effective policies to limit future invasions.
A new study in the Journal of Dairy Science explores labor time-use on Irish pasture-based dairy farms during the busy spring and summer seasons. The research team found that milking was the most time-consuming task, accounting for 31% of farm labor input.
A study of over 32,000 West African children found that extreme heat exposure increases the prevalence of stunted growth from chronic malnutrition by 12% and of low weight from acute malnutrition by 29%. The researchers estimate that rising temperatures could nearly double the effect of heat exposure on stunting.
Researchers created a profile of electric vehicle buyers and drivers, highlighting the importance of environmental communities and concern for air quality. The study also emphasizes the need for further research to analyze the association between purchasing an electric car and caring for the environment.
A new study suggests that reducing sugar consumption through sugar taxation policies can have significant environmental, social, and economic benefits. Redirecting existing sugar cropland to alternative uses like biofuel production could lead to emissions reductions of up to 54.3 MtCO2e per year.
A new study reveals how large-scale groundwater exploitation by local farmers led to the desiccation of sandy soils and decimation of wildlife populations in Spain's Doñana National Park. The lack of effective oversight created an economically and environmentally unsustainable situation, destroying a protected natural space.
A recent study found that climate change will decrease the availability of female low-skilled labor, driving a potential increase in their wages. This could close the wage gap between male and female low-skilled labor as well as the wage gap between low-skilled and high-skilled female labor.
A Dartmouth study provides a scientific basis for climate liability claims between individual countries, linking national emissions to global economic losses and warming. The research estimates $6 trillion in cumulative losses attributable to the world's top emitters from 1990 to 2014.
A study from Tel Aviv University found that invasive marine species can survive in extreme conditions, including changing temperatures and salinity. The researchers' experiment demonstrated the importance of regulating trade routes to prevent the spread of invasive species, which can harm local environments and resident species.
A recent study by ICTA-UAB researchers found that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a shift in public expectations, with many citizens becoming more pessimistic about future climate action. However, some respondents expressed positive views on the impact of COVID-19 on consumption habits and environmental awareness.
A new analysis suggests that BP's reputation declined after the 2010 Deepwater Horizon accident, but its long-term stock market returns were not significantly affected. The study found no decline in the reputations or stock prices of other oil firms.
A new study by Stanford researchers shows that nature-based solutions, such as conserving marshlands and restoring beaches, can be as effective as concrete seawalls in protecting against sea-level rise. The research found that these solutions provide extra benefits, including opportunities for recreation, climate change mitigation thro...
A new article in BioScience argues that incremental changes are insufficient to address planetary emergencies, and calls for broader system-wide changes to governing interactions between climate, biodiversity, and society. The authors hope their work will inform the setting of biodiversity objectives and targets.
West Virginia University researchers are exploring the symbiotic relationship between Miscanthus x giganteus and its microbes to improve the crop's resilience in unpredictable climates. The goal is to determine the best way to manage the plant on marginal soil, which could help restore damaged soils and mitigate climate change.
The study reveals that the U.S., Brazil, and China are top suppliers of global plastic packaging waste, with North and South America responsible for most production and consumption. The researchers emphasize the need for producers and consumers to share responsibility and costs to reduce plastic use.
A team of NTU Singapore economists compiled a detailed study of Albert Winsemius' influence on Singapore's early economic development, analyzing his affinity with Singapore and his contributions to the country's economic growth. The book examines his synergy with pioneering leaders like Lee Kuan Yew and Dr Goh Keng Swee.
The polyphagous shot hole borer is estimated to cause $18.45 billion in economic losses over the next ten years if left unchecked. Urban areas are particularly vulnerable due to stressed trees and non-native species.
A study by researchers at Göttingen University and the Centre for Ecological Research found that organic farming is more effective in promoting wild bee populations than conventional fields with flower strips. The findings suggest that considering both yield and area of land is crucial when evaluating agri-environmental measures.
Researchers used a supercomputer to simulate water supply in an inter-utility agreement, finding that cooperation can benefit both water supply and financial needs. The study found that more flexible agreements allow utilities to adapt to changing conditions, reducing financial risk.
Researchers explored potential policies to reduce nitrogen loss while protecting farmers' bottom lines. The study found that a nitrogen leaching fee policy showed the best outcome, with estimated cost savings of $524 million per year.
Researchers from Korea Maritime and Ocean University have developed a way to synthesize high-performance functionally graded materials with minimized defects. By controlling the mixing gradient of component materials, they improved mechanical properties and eliminated interfacial cracks.
A field experiment in Bangladesh shows that the poor lack opportunities to gain wealth, but a one-time boost can make a major difference. The study suggests that poverty is not principally due to people's capabilities or attitudes, but rather an initial lack of resources prevents them from improving their circumstances.
A new online tool, HazardAware, provides disaster readiness reports for 13.3 million addresses in 196 counties along the Gulf of Mexico, including all of Florida. The tool assesses a property's resilience to hazards such as hurricanes and flooding, and offers customized mitigation information to reduce future hazard loss.
A study by University of Maryland researchers found that urban homeowners are more willing to pay for stream restoration projects, despite lower environmental benefits. In contrast, exurbanites tend to have higher environmental benefits but are less willing to pay.
A new study by the University of Bonn recommends significantly reducing meat consumption to mitigate climate change and environmental damage. While mass vegetarianism is not a viable solution due to limited food availability in some regions, moderate meat consumption can be sustainable if implemented carefully.
A new study by Aston University reveals that Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) can improve their sustainability performance by adopting circular economy practices. The research found that SMEs in all participating countries are likely to achieve higher environmental performance through CE adoption, with products, processes, and...
The University of the Basque Country is taking steps to cut its environmental and social footprint by analyzing its impact through life-cycle assessment and modeling. By identifying areas for improvement, such as reducing transportation emissions and extending computer lifespan, the university aims to reduce its impact by up to 30%.
Human activity on Hainan Island is causing changes in the body shapes and diets of tropical birds, resulting in biotic homogenisation. Despite efforts to protect biodiversity, the island's unique ecosystem is being affected by large-scale economic and land-use changes.
A new study finds that while immediate economic benefits of carbon emissions reductions are limited, most scenarios have net economic benefits after 2050. The benefits are most dramatic for developing countries, with a median net benefit of 6.0% of GDP for a 1.5°C reduction target.
Researchers recommend organizing targeted culls and creating a supply chain to make lionfish a component of the region's fishing industry. They also call for legal changes to permit lionfish removals across the Mediterranean and inclusion on the EU list of invasive species of concern.
High-income nations, driven by US and EU, exceed sustainable resource use thresholds by 74% globally. China ranks second in global excess material use, while low- and middle-income countries account for only 8%. Researchers call for transformative post-growth approaches to mitigate ecological breakdown.
A new study analyzes knowledge transfers across 853 US counties in five manufacturing industries, revealing the importance of local environment, university research, and industry structure for innovation. The findings provide insights into inter- and intra-regional flows, as well as the role of external factors in knowledge output.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute found that alternative delivery locations can help offset the negative impacts of increased home deliveries. The study suggests that these locations may be more appealing to underrepresented groups who don't receive many packages, increasing their willingness to use them.
Researchers propose a new way to harvest aguaje fruit from the Mauritia flexuosa palm tree without cutting down female trees, increasing fruit production by 51% and generating $62 million annually. This method could provide a sustainable economic alternative for local communities and reduce deforestation in Amazonia.
A new study finds that California wildfires increase both revenues and expenditures in municipalities, resulting in a budget shortfall over many years. The unique state constitution limits property assessments, but still leads to higher taxes and a boom in housing reassessments after fires.
The study explores how countries can reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 with continued economic growth through 2100. The results suggest that stringent public policies and rapid deployment of low-carbon technologies are necessary to achieve this goal, with the global economy projected to be five times its size in 2100.
Researchers advocate for a paradigm shift in forecasting corrosion damage within reinforced concrete structures, citing the flaws of using a single theoretical concept. A multiscale, multidisciplinary approach is needed to quantify corrosion rates and develop reliable forecast models.
Scientists have proposed a new two-step methodology to eliminate polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) from the environment. The approach involves chemical functionalization, replacing chlorine atoms with hydroxyl groups, followed by thermal destruction at lower temperatures than traditional incineration methods.
A new framework will help conservation agencies forecast climate change impacts and identify target areas for protection. The project aims to create adaptable portfolios of target sites for biodiversity conservation over time.
A study by Jason Hickel reveals that the global North appropriates vast resources and labor from the global South through price differentials in international trade, resulting in a net drain of $10.8 trillion in 2015. This unsustainable practice perpetuates global inequality and ecological breakdown.
A study of 264 studies in 53 countries found that natural forests better support biodiversity and ecosystem services like carbon storage and water conservation. In contrast, plantations excel in wood production, highlighting a trade-off between environmental and economic goals in forest restoration.
Climate change is expected to cause a significant decline in beech forest growth in Europe, particularly in southern regions. Tree ring analyses reveal that tree growth has declined in virtually all regions over the past six decades, with the strongest contrast between northern and southern Europe.
Wind turbine blades made from glass fibre-reinforced polymer can serve up to 25 years before ending up in landfills. Lithuanian researchers have proposed a method to break down these composites, extracting usable materials like phenol and fibre for reuse.
A team of researchers has found that plastic waste-derived porous materials can adsorb CO2 from flue gas, reducing plastic pollution and emissions. The study suggests that these materials could be used in industrial-scale applications, making them a promising alternative to conventional CO2 capture technologies.
A study by University of Illinois researchers found that private investments in California's solar energy industry increase climate vulnerabilities. Large-scale infrastructure needed to attract private investment makes the system more vulnerable to climate extremes, including heat waves and droughts.
Researchers at Washington State University found a causal link between natural gas flaring and increased hospital visits for respiratory health in North Dakota. The study estimated that a 1% increase in flared natural gas increases the hospitalization rate by 0.73%, highlighting the significant impact of flaring on human health.
A new study by Bangor University suggests that a biodiversity offsetting scheme at Ambatovy mine in Madagascar has successfully achieved 'No Net Loss' of the unique forest habitat destroyed by the mine. The study, which used state-of-the-art approaches to evaluate the impact of the mine's strategy, found that the offsets have saved nea...
A recent data-driven study by Emory University researchers highlights the struggles of US farmers to make a living, even with government subsidies. The study creates a free online data hub to track farmer livelihoods and suggests that federal subsidies need to be reimagined to support innovation and adaptation in agriculture.
The study analyzed changes in employment and average wages in the US healthcare workforce during the first and second years of COVID-19. It found that the pandemic led to a significant increase in telemedicine jobs, while other roles like nursing assistants and medical technicians experienced declining employment.
A survey study found that material hardships such as food insecurity and rent problems increased significantly during the pandemic. The study identified top priorities for spending stimulus checks among U.S. adults, highlighting the need for targeted support to address these challenges.
In the 1990s, Massachusetts activists drafted model legislation for community choice aggregation, which has been adopted by 1,800 communities in six states. The program allows cities and towns to purchase renewable energy, reducing reliance on utility companies.
Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University provide valuable insights on managing C&D waste and reducing carbon emissions in building refurbishment projects. By upcycling generated waste, carbon emissions can be significantly reduced, with a potential reduction of around 40% compared to traditional practices.
A study published in the Journal of Environmental Economics and Management finds that residents in low-income and rural areas are disproportionately affected by increases in fuel carbon taxes. The researchers discover significant differences across regions and income groups, with higher price pass-through rates in rural areas.
A new study published in PNAS reveals that the environmental impacts of corn ethanol far outweigh its benefits, with carbon emissions potentially negating any climate advantages. The research highlights the need to shift towards next-generation biofuels and improve efficiency, electrification, and policy-making.
A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers finds that corn ethanol's environmental impacts are worse than expected, with carbon emissions potentially negating any climate advantages. The analysis suggests a shift towards next-generation biofuels made from perennial plants could be necessary.
A new study suggests that preventing pandemics could save around 1.6 million lives and reduce mortality costs by $10 trillion annually by investing just 5% of the estimated annual economic losses associated with human deaths from COVID into environmental protection and early-stage disease surveillance.
A new study suggests that implementing primary pandemic prevention actions, such as better surveillance and wildlife management, can reduce the economic costs of emerging infectious diseases by up to 10%. These actions have a substantial co-benefit of preventing carbon dioxide emissions and conserving water supplies.
Researchers found pedal bikes increased bus rides by 1%, while electric bikes took that to 2.1%. The system supported ridership, particularly for socioeconomically disadvantaged and young people.