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on Environmental Economics |
| By: | Hameed, Shahzad; Wei, Wei; Farrukh, Umer; Mushtaq, Khali |
| Abstract: | Energy is the most essential tool for production and distribution of economic goods. It is also considered as crucial input of economic development. The World Energy Committee states that there are several environmental risks linked to energy production from non-renewable sources such as coal, gas, and petroleum etc. One of the associated risks is high per capita carbon emissions. To reduce such risk economy should switch to the renewable energy sources that characterize less or no carbon emission. This paper investigated the dynamics of coal, gas and hydroelectric energy within the framework of the environmental Kuznets curve. The study used the Arellano and Bond (1991) dynamic panel model using the GMM framework developed by the Hansen (1982). The empirical results of the study confirm the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis and that coal and gas are significant contributors to carbon. Results suggest that the hydel energy can play an essential role in mitigating the carbon emissions and improving climate emissions in case of South and East Asian Countries. |
| Keywords: | Environmental Kuznets curve; Renewable energy; Non-renewable energy; CO2 emissions; Arellano-Bond dynamic panel-data. |
| JEL: | Q43 Q5 Q58 |
| Date: | 2019 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:90435&r=all |
| By: | Rowena Ezpranza D. Cabahug; Romnick S. Baliton; Leila D. Landicho; Reynaldo A. Comia; Roselyn F. Paelmo |
| Abstract: | This paper highlights the results of a year-long research, which looked at the food security potentials of agroforestry systems in selected upland communities in the provinces of Nueva Vizcaya, Benguet, and Quezon in the Philippines. It characterized the different agroforestry models and systems practiced by the smallholder farmers and assessed their current state in terms of social, economic, and environmental dimensions. Data gathered through transect mapping and farm visits revealed that majority of smallholder farmers in the research sites practiced agroforestry, but with varied components. Alley cropping and contour planting are the dominant agroforestry systems in Nueva Vizcaya; vegetable-based and coffee-based multistorey system are more common in Benguet; and vegetable-based multistorey systems are widely practiced in Quezon. Meanwhile, the agrobiodiversity assessment indicated that the diversity of agroforestry systems in the three study sites are low to moderate. This implies the need to improve the present agroforestry practices into more diverse systems. The analysis revealed that farmers in the three study sites have moderate to high levels of food security. However, smallholder farmers engaged in agroforestry and multiple cropping have higher levels of food security, compared with those engaged in monocropping and relay cropping. This shows that agroforestry systems help ensure food security by making multiple food products and farm components available throughout the year, at the same time, providing income for purchasing other food items. Agroforestry systems also contribute to ecological stability as it promotes biodiversity and carbon sequestration, which can significantly contribute toward climate change mitigation. The ecological and socioeconomic contributions of agroforestry provide firm basis to continuously promote agroforestry in any upland development program implemented by the government and non-government sectors. |
| Keywords: | agroforestry, sustainable development, food security, upland farms, food accessibility, food utilization, Philippines |
| Date: | 2018 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:sag:seadps:2018:410&r=all |
| By: | Shahbaz, Muhammad; Balsalobre-Lorente, Daniel; Sinha, Avik |
| Abstract: | This study examines the association between foreign direct investment (FDI) and carbon emissions for the Middle East and North African (MENA) region in 1990–2015, including biomass energy consumption as an additional determinant of carbon emissions. We apply the generalized method of moments (GMM) to validate the existence of the pollution haven hypothesis (PHH). The N-shaped association is also validated between FDI and carbon emissions. The link between economic growth and carbon emissions is inverted-U and N-shaped; that is, it satisfies the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypotheses. Biomass energy use lowers carbon emissions, and the causality analysis reveals that FDI causes CO2 emissions. Clearly, the results confirm the existence of a feedback effect between economic growth and carbon emissions. The connection between biomass energy use and CO2 emissions is also bidirectional. The empirical findings suggest policy makers to design comprehensive trade and energy policies by targeting the cleaner production practices, for not only to ensure environmental sustainability, but also to fulfil the objectives of sustainable development goals. |
| Keywords: | Foreign Direct Investment, Carbon Emissions, Middle East and North Africa, Generalized Method of Moments, Biomass Energy |
| JEL: | Q5 |
| Date: | 2019–01–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:91729&r=all |
| By: | Geoffrey Barrows (CREST - Centre de Recherche en Économie et Statistique - ENSAI - Ecole Nationale de la Statistique et de l'Analyse de l'Information [Bruz] - X - École polytechnique - ENSAE ParisTech - École Nationale de la Statistique et de l'Administration Économique - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, X - École polytechnique); Hélène Ollivier (PJSE - Paris Jourdan Sciences Economiques - UP1 - Université Panthéon-Sorbonne - ENS Paris - École normale supérieure - Paris - INRA - Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique - EHESS - École des hautes études en sciences sociales - ENPC - École des Ponts ParisTech - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, PSE - Paris School of Economics) |
| Abstract: | With asymmetric climate policies, regulation in one country can be undercut by missions growth in another. Previous research finds evidence that regulation erodes the competitiveness of domestic firms and leads to higher imports, but increased imports need not imply increased emissions if domestic sales are jointly determined with export sales or if emission intensity of manufacturing adjusts endogenously to foreign demand. In this paper, we estimate for the first time how production and emissions of manufacturing firms in one country respond to foreign demand shocks in trading partner markets. Using a panel of large Indian manufacturers and an instrumental variable strategy, we find that foreign demand growth leads to higher exports, domestic sales, production, and CO2 emissions, and slightly lower emission intensity. The results imply that a representative exporter facing the average observed foreign demand growth over the period 1995-2011 would have increased CO2 emissions by 1.39% annually as a result of foreign demand growth, which translates into 6.69% total increase in CO2 emissions from Indian manufacturing over the period. Breaking down emission intensity reduction into component channels, we find some evidence of product-mix effects, but fail to reject the null of no change in technology. Back of the envelope calculations indicate that environmental regulation that doubles energy prices world-wide (except in India) would only increase CO2 emissions from India by 1.5%. Thus, while leakage fears are legitimate, the magnitude appears fairly small in the context of India. |
| Keywords: | leakage,trade and environment,product mix,technological change |
| Date: | 2018–11 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:wpaper:halshs-01945848&r=all |
| By: | Peter, Jakob (Energiewirtschaftliches Institut an der Universitaet zu Koeln (EWI)) |
| Abstract: | Ongoing climate change affects complex and long-lived infrastructures like electricity systems. Particularly for decarbonized electricity systems based on variable renewable energies, there is a variety of impact mechanisms working differently in size and direction. Main impacts for Europe include changes in wind and solar resources, hydro power, cooling water availability for thermoelectric generation and electricity demand. Hence, it is not only important to understand the total effects, i.e., how much welfare may be gained when accounting for climate change impacts in all dimensions, but also to disentangle various effects in terms of their marginal contribution to the potential welfare loss. This paper applies a two-stage modeling framework to assess RCP8.5 climate change impacts on the European electricity system. Thereby, the performance of two electricity system design strategies – one based on no anticipation of climate change and one anticipating impacts of climate change – is studied under a variety of climate change impacts. Impacts on wind and solar resources are found to cause the largest system effects in 2100. Combined climate change impacts increase system costs of a system designed without climate change anticipation due to increased fuel and carbon permit costs. Applying a system design strategy with climate change anticipation increases the cost-optimal share of variable renewable energy based on additional wind offshore capacity in 2100, at a reduction in nuclear, wind onshore and solar PV capacity. Compared to a no anticipation strategy, total system costs are reduced. |
| Keywords: | Climate Change; Variable renewable energy; Power system modeling |
| JEL: | C61 Q41 Q42 Q48 Q54 |
| Date: | 2019–02–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ris:ewikln:2019_003&r=all |
| By: | Paula Pereda; Andrea Lucchesi, Carolina Policarpo Garcia, Bruno Toni Palialol |
| Abstract: | We evaluate the effects of a carbon tax in the Brazilian economy using an input-output framework. First, we consider the impacts of a carbon tax of US$ 10 and US$ 50/metric ton of CO2 equivalent. As usual, the adoption of the carbon tax generates adverse effects on GDP, wages and jobs in the short term, but reduces emissions and generates new government revenues, especially in the case of the greater tax. Second, we consider a broader tax system reform. In this reform, we replace distortionary taxes by a tax on value added. To compensate for the loss of government revenue, we assume a carbon tax with equivalent revenue. We find that the net effect is a GDP increase of 0.47%, the creation of 533 thousand jobs and reduction of 1.6 million tons of CO2 emissions. Both scenarios exempt exports and levy imports to correct adverse effects on the country’s competitiveness. |
| Keywords: | carbon tax; input-output analysis; revenue-recycling effect; neutral tax burden |
| JEL: | H22 Q52 Q58 |
| Date: | 2019–02–04 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:spa:wpaper:2019wpecon02&r=all |
| By: | Jennifer Hinton; Donnie Maclurcan |
| Abstract: | In this book, we outline a model of a non-capitalist market economy based on not-for-profit forms of business. This work presents both a critique of the current economic system and a vision of a more socially, economically, and ecologically sustainable economy. The point of departure is the purpose and profit-orientation embedded in the legal forms used by businesses (e.g., for-profit or not-for-profit) and the ramifications of this for global sustainability challenges such as environmental pollution, resource use, climate change, and economic inequality. We document the rapid rise of not-for-profit forms of business in the global economy and offer a conceptual framework and an analytical lens through which to view these relatively new economic actors and their potential for transforming the economy. The book explores how a market consisting of only or mostly not-for-profit forms of business might lead to better financial circulation, economic equality, social well-being, and environmental regeneration as compared to for-profit markets. |
| Date: | 2019–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:1902.01398&r=all |
| By: | Mohd Sapuan Salit |
| Abstract: | Novel biocomposite film materials, 100 percent environmentally friendly with microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) as reinforcement in sugar palm starch (SPS)-based thermoplastic matrix were prepared through casting method. The cellulose content in the composite films varied from 0 to 10 percent w/w. Using atomic force microscopy (AFM), the morphology of the composite films was analyzed. This work is focused on the effects of MCC content on the mechanical and water vapor permeability (WVP) properties of the composites. Incorporation of the MCC to the SPS matrix increased the tensile strength, while the elongation at break decreased with MCC loading. The tensile strength value for the composite with 10 percent w/w of MCC was found maximum (11.30 MPa). Adding 1 percent MCC content significantly reduced the WVP of the composite film by 66.41 percent compared with the neat SPS film. Overall, the incorporation of MCC in the SPS-based films improved the mechanical strength and water barrier properties of the environmentally friendly composite films. |
| Keywords: | sugar palm starch, biodegradable films, food packaging, environmental pollution, microcrystalline cellulose, biocomposite film materials, Southeast Asia |
| Date: | 2018 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:sag:seadps:2018:399&r=all |
| By: | Lorena M. D’Agostino (Department of Economics and Management, University of Trento, via Inama, 5 - 38122 Trento (Italy). Tel. +390461283197 – Fax +390461882241.); Rosina Moreno (AQR-IREA Research Group, University of Barcelona. Av. Diagonal 690 - 08034 Barcelona (Spain). Tel. +34934021823 - Fax +34934021821.) |
| Abstract: | Technological innovation is essential to achieve simultaneously economic, environmental and social goals (i.e. the green growth). Indeed, many studies found that environmental innovation spurs overall innovation. However, this topic has not been investigated by taking into account the geographical context. Therefore, our paper seeks to investigate whether ‘green regions’, with an increased public and private commitment in environmental issues, are related to innovation of local firms. Using data on Spanish manufacturing firms and regions, we find that environmental technologies (especially in green energy), environmental investments, and environmental management at the level of regions are positively associated to local firms’ innovation. |
| Keywords: | innovation, region, firm, green patents, environment. JEL classification:R11, O31, O44. |
| Date: | 2019–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ira:wpaper:201903&r=all |
| By: | Jakob, Michael; Soria, Rafael; Trinidad, Carlos; Edenhofer, Ottmar; Bak, Céline; Bouille, Daniel; Buira, Daniel; Carlino, Hernan; Gutman, Veronica; Hübner, Christian; Knopf, Brigitte; Lucena, André; Santos, Luan; Scott, Andrew; Steckel, Jan Christoph; Tanaka, Kanako; Vogt-Schilb, Adrien; Yamada, Koichi |
| Abstract: | Green fiscal reforms would contribute to climate change mitigation, increase the economic efficiency of national tax systems and provide additional public revenues. Some countries in Latin America have already taken first steps towards green fiscal reforms. This paper provides an overview of the major challenges for the successful implementation of such reforms and discusses how they could be overcome. The authors first discuss the role of country-specific economic and political enabling conditions that need to be in place for successful implementation for green successful reforms. Second, they emphasize the importance of comprehensive reform plans that include all relevant ministries and agencies and are well-aligned with other policy objectives, such as energy security and industrial development. Third, they highlight how appropriate sequencing and gradualism could lower implementation costs and hence increase the political feasibility of green fiscal reforms. Finally, the authors analyze the potential impacts of green fiscal reforms on the distribution of income and discuss transfer schemes that could avoid adverse outcomes for the poorest parts of the population. They use these four dimensions to illustrate why recent reform efforts in selected Latin American countries have been successful or have failed, respectively. |
| Keywords: | green fiscal reform,energy subsidies,Latin America,multi-objective climate policy,sequencing,distribution |
| JEL: | H23 E62 Q54 N16 Q48 |
| Date: | 2018 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:ifwedp:201886&r=all |
| By: | Morteza Taiebat; Samuel Stolper; Ming Xu |
| Abstract: | Connected and automated vehicles (CAVs) are expected to yield significant improvements in safety, energy efficiency, and time utilization. However, their net effect on energy and environmental outcomes is unclear. Higher fuel economy reduces the energy required per mile of travel, but it also reduces the fuel cost of travel, incentivizing more travel and causing an energy "rebound effect." Moreover, CAVs are predicted to vastly reduce the time cost of travel, inducing further increases in travel and energy use. In this paper, we forecast the induced travel and rebound from CAVs using data on existing travel behavior. We develop a microeconomic model of vehicle miles traveled (VMT) choice under income and time constraints; then we use it to estimate elasticities of VMT demand with respect to fuel and time costs, with fuel cost data from the 2017 United States National Household Travel Survey (NHTS) and wage-derived predictions of travel time cost. Our central estimate of the combined price elasticity of VMT demand is -0.4, which differs substantially from previous estimates. We also find evidence that wealthier households have more elastic demand, and that households at all income levels are more sensitive to time costs than to fuel costs. We use our estimated elasticities to simulate VMT and energy use impacts of full, private CAV adoption under a range of possible changes to the fuel and time costs of travel. We forecast a 2-47% increase in travel demand for an average household. Our results indicate that backfire - i.e., a net rise in energy use - is a possibility, especially in higher income groups. This presents a stiff challenge to policy goals for reductions in not only energy use but also traffic congestion and local and global air pollution, as CAV use increases. |
| Date: | 2019–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:1902.00382&r=all |
| By: | Stéphane Gauthier (PSE - Paris School of Economics, CES - Centre d'économie de la Sorbonne - UP1 - Université Panthéon-Sorbonne - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique); Fanny Henriet (PSE - Paris School of Economics, PJSE - Paris Jourdan Sciences Economiques - UP1 - Université Panthéon-Sorbonne - ENS Paris - École normale supérieure - Paris - INRA - Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique - EHESS - École des hautes études en sciences sociales - ENPC - École des Ponts ParisTech - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) |
| Abstract: | We study the optimal design of consumption taxes when both global and local externalities matter. Local externalities make the social impact of the consumption of externality-generating commodities varying across consumers. A typical example involves the greater damage caused by pollution from urban fuel consumers. We provide a condition for the validity of the targeting principle according to which externality concerns should only fall on the taxes on externality-generating commodities. When this condition is satisfied, one can decompose the tax on an externality-generating commodity into equity/efficiency and Pigovian contributions. The Pigovian contribution should exceed the average social damage if the fuel consumption of the greatest polluters is more responsive to fuel price. In an empirical illustration we find that the fuel tax in France is mostly explained by Pigovian considerations. |
| Keywords: | Pigovian tax,targeting principle,local externality,pollution,commodity taxes |
| Date: | 2018–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:wpaper:halshs-01826330&r=all |
| By: | Bernini, Cristina; Cerqua, Augusto |
| Abstract: | We evaluate whether adopting a well-known transition management instrument in the tourism industry can support a combined goal of sustainability and economic growth. We create a detailed dataset at the municipality level and use a recently developed policy evaluation technique to investigate the causal impact of the Blue Flag program on the local economies of coastal destinations. Estimates show that this eco-label is not effective at enhancing the local economy; findings are homogeneous across destinations. This empirical result is in line with the recent theoretical literature arguing that the transition towards growing a sustainable economy is particularly complex and a single policy does not suffice. |
| Keywords: | sustainability policy; eco-label; transition management; policy evaluation method |
| JEL: | C23 Q56 Z18 |
| Date: | 2019–01–31 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:91882&r=all |
| By: | Wayne Nelles |
| Abstract: | This paper provides an introduction to some critical issues pertaining to agrobiodiversity mainstreaming, conservation, and sustainable use in Southeast Asia. An earlier draft initially served as a background paper for a regional agrobiodiversity workshop organized by the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) and the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity (ACB), hosted by Maejo University (MJU) in Chiang Mai, Thailand on 12–14 September 2017. |
| Keywords: | conservation, agrobiodiversity mainstreaming, sustainability, Southeast Asia |
| Date: | 2018 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:sag:seadps:2018:421&r=all |
| By: | Patrice Ollivaud; Peter Haxton |
| Abstract: | Tourism has boomed in Indonesia in recent years and is already one of the main sources of foreign-currency earnings. Indonesia has rich and diverse natural assets, whose tourism potential remains underutilised. The government has an ambitious target of attracting 20 million tourists by 2019, up from nearly 14 million in 2017. The main destination will continue to be Bali. Using Bali as the preferred development model, the government wants to develop other destinations, particularly through infrastructure programmes to improve connectivity, which is a longstanding challenge for tourism as well as for regional development more generally. Enhancing the tourism-related skills of local populations will provide them with expanded job opportunities. This calls for reforms to vocational education and training. Moreover, recent efforts by the authorities to improve the business environment need to continue, including through helping firms embrace digitalisation. Tourism may be growing too fast in some destinations without adequately taking into account sustainability issues, both for the environment and local communities. Better planning and co-ordination at all levels of government and across relevant policy areas can facilitate more sustainable tourism development.This Working Paper relates to the 2018 OECD Economic Survey of Indonesia (www.oecd.org/eco/surveys/economic-surve y-indonesia.htm). |
| Keywords: | digitalisation, Indonesia, infrastructure, regional development, sustainable development, tourism, vocational education and training |
| JEL: | L83 R58 Q56 H54 |
| Date: | 2019–02–13 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:ecoaaa:1535-en&r=all |
| By: | Christine Lewis |
| Abstract: | Indonesia’s government needs more revenue to fund spending that can boost GDP growth, raise well-being and reduce poverty. The tax-to-GDP ratio is low relative to other emerging market economies. The difficulty is to raise revenues without denting growth or worsening inequality. Successive reforms have modernised the tax administration and increased the number of taxpayers. Nonetheless, raising compliance is an ongoing challenge and investing in the tax administration rightly remains a government priority. There is also scope to improve the design of various taxes. Broadening the bases of income and consumption taxes would raise more revenue and reduce distortions. Expanding property taxation, if appropriately implemented, could provide additional funds for local governments. Taxes can also be used more extensively to discourage activities and behaviours with negative health and environmental externalities. Strengthening property rights and fighting illegal extraction would increase revenues from Indonesia’s natural resource wealth.This Working Paper relates to the 2018 OECD Economic Survey of Indonesia (www.oecd.org/eco/surveys/economic-surve y-indonesia.htm). |
| Keywords: | business tax, consumption tax, green taxation, income tax, Indonesia, natural resources taxation, property tax, tax compliance, tax systems |
| JEL: | H23 H24 H25 H26 |
| Date: | 2019–02–13 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:ecoaaa:1534-en&r=all |
| By: | Anjara Lalaina Jocelyn Rakotoarisoa (Unives informatique) |
| Abstract: | Ranked in the same league as war and poverty, global warming has become a global problem of global concern, especially since the beginning of the third millennium. The presumption states that this phenomenon is of an anthropogenic nature, fueled mainly by the human economic activities that propel greenhouse gas emissions. However, the promotion of economic growth through the revitalization of economic activities must be supported to ensure the process of development towards prosperity. The purpose of this article is to explore this paradoxical link between global warming and the economy. Hence the title of this document "Economic Activities and Global Warming: A Global Paradox". |
| Keywords: | activités économiques,économie mondiale,croissance économique,causalité,gaz à effet de serre,température globale,réchauffement planétaire |
| Date: | 2019–01–17 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:wpaper:hal-01984424&r=all |
| By: | Jean-Claude Berthelemy (CES - Centre d'économie de la Sorbonne - UP1 - Université Panthéon-Sorbonne - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique); Arnaud Millien (CES - Centre d'économie de la Sorbonne - UP1 - Université Panthéon-Sorbonne - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) |
| Abstract: | This paper is the first product of a project which aims to build a Collaborative Smart Mapping of Mini-grid Action (CoSMMA), whose principal objective is to identify best practice in decentralized electrification projects. By evaluation of 421 projects, from published research papers, we have built a pilot CoSMMA which proves its feasibility. Its relevance is demonstrated by a meta-analysis, which reveals the principal characteristics of decentralized electrification projects which have positive impacts on sustainable development. Four main characteristics were considered: technology (source or energy), system size (power), decision level (from local to country level), geographic location. When searching for best practice, technology and system size must be considered together, because the chosen technology may constrain the power, which is provided by the system. We find that the most popular projects, which are based on Solar Home Systems (SHS) are not the most effective. The problem with SHS is not the use of solar energy, but the small system size often chosen for SHS. Mini-grids, of larger size, especially those which use hybrid renewable sources of energy, have more positive impacts, because these systems combine the benefits of sustainability and flexibility. In terms of decision level, we find that both top-down and bottom-up approaches have advantages, with the observation of a U-shaped curve for the influence of the decision level on the probability of obtaining positive impacts. Geographical location matters, as it is very often the key to system feasibility. We find that DEPs are more effective in Latin America than in Asia, and more effective in Asia than in Africa. We also attempted to study the type of effects resulting from DEPs. Descriptive data suggest that for some types of effects, positive impacts are more likely than for others. Decentralized electrification projects have a more positive impact on Lifestyle & NICT or Household agenda than on Economic transformation or Community life. However, this pilot CoSMMA does not contain enough information to study precisely the types of effects, because some types of effects have not been studied frequently in the existing literature. This is the case, for instance, for environmental effects, which have been rarely measured scientifically. Finally, we attempted to broaden our information set by including expert data, which was entered into the CoSMMA meta-analysis. We define expert data as data that are not supported by statistical tests with measures of significance, whereas the evaluations based on scientific data were supported by statistical tests of significance. The expert data may be valid, but our attempt to include it in the analysis failed at this stage. The determinants of unproven effects appear to be quite different from the determinants of proven effects in our meta-analysis, and using expert data would imply merging proven and unproven effects, which would totally blur the conclusions. |
| Keywords: | Decentralized electrification,sustainable development,impact assessment,meta-analysis |
| Date: | 2018–11–15 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:wpaper:hal-01922517&r=all |
| By: | Thonipara, Anita; Runst, Petrik; Ochsner, Christian; Bizer, Kilian |
| Abstract: | Despite a common EU directive on energy efficiency in residential buildings, levels of energy efficiency differ vastly across European countries. This article analyses these differences and investigates the effectiveness of different energy efficiency policies in place in those countries. We firstly use panel data to explain average yearly energy consumption per dwelling and country by observable characteristics such as climatic conditions, energy prices, income, and floor area. We then use the unexplained variation by sorting between-country differences as well as plotting within-country changes over time to identify better performing countries. These countries are analysed qualitatively in a second step. We conduct expert interviews and examine the legal rules regarding building energy efficiency. Based on our exploratory analysis we generate a number of hypotheses. First, we suggest that regulatory standards, in conjunction with increased construction activity, can be effective in the long run. Second, the results suggest that carbon taxation represents an effective means for energy efficiency. |
| Keywords: | carbon-taxation,energy efficiency,energy conservation,climate policy,residential buildings |
| JEL: | H23 K32 Q58 |
| Date: | 2018 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:ifhwps:122018&r=all |
| By: | Gribincea, Alexandru |
| Abstract: | production in the Republic of Moldova increased in 2017 compared to the 2016 period. The positive evolution is due to the increase in the processing industry of agricultural raw materials. Innovative modern technologies seem promising for both producers and consumers of agricultural products, but their use also involves potential risks. In order to maximize innovative potential, appropriate policies must be developed to ensure that these risks are accurately identified and, if necessary, to be avoided. But the intensive application of bio and nanotechnologies leads to concerns for ecologists and population in general. Scientists are working to minimize or mitigate the negative impact of human technology on sustainable development. The measures taken include the development and use of tools, selective means that reduce the noosphere’s impact. Scientists are working to minimize or mitigate the negative impact of human technology on sustainable development. The measures taken include the development and use of tools, selective means that reduce the noosphere’s impact. Currently, according to WTO data, the largest producers and exporters of agricultural products can highlight: USA – 10%, EU – 9.5%, Brazil – 4.6%, China – 3.2%, Argentina – 2.8%, Indonesia – 2.4%, Thailand – 2.4%, Malaysia – 2.1%, Australia – 1.9%, Russia – 1.9%, India – 1.6%, New Zealand and Mexico – 3%, Chili – 1.2%. These countries export agricultural products totaling 1117 billion USD. Moldovan exports to EU countries have become a lifeline for domestic companies looking for new outlets. The aim of the research is to estimate the ways to meet internal and external needs under conditions of economic sustainability. |
| Keywords: | agricultural products, agriculture contribution, plant production, animal production, sustainable development, economic vector orientation |
| JEL: | Q1 |
| Date: | 2018 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:91914&r=all |
| By: | Bostedt, Göran (CERE - the Center for Environmental and Resource Economics); Zabel, Astrid (School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, Bern University of Applied Sciences); Ekvall, Hans (Department of Forest Economics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences) |
| Abstract: | A tax-fund system has been proposed to advance Swedish forest conservation. We present a choice experiment with Swedish private forest owners on preferences for attributes of a tax-fund system. Focusing on three aspects: (i) freedom to choose set-asides, (ii) equity issues, and (iii) frequency of nature inventories, we find two groups of forest owners. The first is opposed to interventions that could curtail liberty and oppose frequent nature inventories, while a smaller group would derive positive utility from joint decision-making. A tax-fund system would need to be designed in a participatory manner to reconcile forest owners, forest industry, and conservationists. |
| Keywords: | Choice experiments; biodiversity; boreal forest; landscape planning; Sweden |
| JEL: | Q23 Q28 Q51 Q58 |
| Date: | 2019–01–28 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:slucer:2019_001&r=all |
| By: | Jan Witajewski-Baltvilks; Carolyn Fischer |
| Abstract: | If one region of the world switches its research effort from dirty to clean technologies, will other regions follow? To investigate this question we built a North-South model that combines insights from directed technological change and quality ladder endogenous growth models. We allow researchers in the South to create business-stealing innovations. We found that (i) after the North switches from dirty to clean technologies, the growing value of clean markets will motivate technology firms in the South to follow the switch; however this result is conditional on the North being sufficiently large. (ii) If the two regions invest research effort to different sectors and the outputs of the two sectors are gross substitutes, then the long run growth rates in both regions are smaller than if the global research effort were to be invested in one sector. (iii) If the North switches to R&D in clean technologies, the benevolent central planner in the South would ensure that all South R&D switches too, unless the planner’s discount rate is high. |
| Keywords: | directed technological change, green growth, endogenous growth model, cross-country spillovers, unilateral climate policy, green R&D subsidies |
| JEL: | O33 O41 O44 Q55 Q56 |
| Date: | 2018–12 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ibt:wpaper:wp102018&r=all |
| By: | Bachev, Hrabrin; Koteva, Nina; Mitova, Dilyana; Ivanov, Bojidar; Chopeva, Minka; Sarov, Angel; Toteva, Dessislava; Todorova, Kristina; Yovchevska, Plamena; Kaneva, Krasimira; Aleksandrova, Svetlana; Mitov, Anton |
| Abstract: | This paper gives answer to topical and debated research and practical questions at the current stage of development of Bulgarian agriculture - „what is sustainability of agriculture", „how to assess sustainability of agricultural in the conditions of EU CAP implementation in the country“, and „which are critical factors for improvement of socio-economic and environmental sustainability in the sector“. Evolution of the „concept“ of agrarian sustainability and the major approached for its assessment are discussed More precise definition of sustainability of Bulgarian agriculture is suggested and the requirements for the system of its assessment are characterised. For the first time a new „governance“ pillar of agrarian sustainability is included along with the universally accepted economic, social and environmental pillars (aspects). Practically applicable for the specific conditions of Bulgarian agriculture holistic framework for assessing sustainability level of agrarian systems of different types (sector, sub-sector, region, ecosystem, agricultural farm) is suggested. The later included 25 principles, 66 criteria, and 163 indicators and reference values for assessing integral, governance, economic, social and environmental sustainability as well as approach for their calculation, integration and interpretation. Approbation of the elaborated framework in assessment of agrarian sustainability at various levels (national, sub-sector, region, (agro)ecosystem, and farm) is made on the base of official statistical, etc, information and original farm surveys. Critical factors for improving sustainability of Bulgarian agriculture are identified, and recommendation made for amelioration of research and assessment practices, public policies and farming strategies for sustainable development. Website of the project: https://zem.alle.bg |
| Keywords: | agrarian sustainability, assessment framework, governance, economic, social, environmental, integral, Bulgaria |
| JEL: | Q10 Q12 Q13 Q15 Q18 Q5 |
| Date: | 2019–02–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:92049&r=all |
| By: | Crampes, Claude; Trochet, Jean-Michel |
| Abstract: | Electricity storage encompasses a disparate list of technologies such as pumped-storage hydroelectricity, compressed-air energy storage, chemical batteries, and flywheels. These technologies can provide the electricity system with heterogeneous services of energy transfers across months, weeks, days or intra-days, power transfers for an hour, a few minutes or seconds, and can assist operators in load following, frequency control, and uninterrupted power supply. The paper presents a unified economic analysis of these technologies and services. We underline the role of charge and discharge durations as a criterion for economic segmentation of technologies and services. We highlight the complementary value of storage in electricity systems with a high share of low variable cost and low carbon generation (nuclear, hydro, wind power, solar photovoltaic). We also underline the limited substitution value of storage for generation with high variable cost (gas combustion-turbines or gas-oil motor engines), given the cost of state-of-the-art storage technologies and the current relatively low cost of fossil fuels and low carbon pricing. |
| Date: | 2019–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:tse:wpaper:33276&r=all |
| By: | Growitsch, Christian (Frauhofer CEM, Hamburg University); Höffler, Felix (Energiewirtschaftliches Institut an der Universitaet zu Koeln (EWI)) |
| Abstract: | The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident in 2011 led to some drastic reactions in Germany, in particular an immediate shut-downof older nuclear power plants. This event is therefore often seen as a turning point, or a major accelerator for the German Energiewende. We investigate the short term effects, but also put the event into a longer, 10-year perspective. This shows that hardly any trend in the energy policy was strongly affected by policy decisions of 2011. Major trends are the increase of renewable electricity sources, the phase out of nuclear, a slight increase in energy efficiency, while total energy consumption and also greenhouse gas emissions remained stable in the decade 2005-2015/16. We also provide some tentative explanations for these developments. |
| Keywords: | Germany; Japan; Fukushima; Nuclear power; Energiewende; Energy policy |
| JEL: | Q40 Q48 Q53 Q58 |
| Date: | 2019–02–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ris:ewikln:2019_002&r=all |
| By: | Hélène Tordjman (CEPN - Centre d'Economie de l'Université Paris Nord - UP13 - Université Paris 13 - USPC - Université Sorbonne Paris Cité - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) |
| Abstract: | Cela fait longtemps que la nature est entrée dans le processus capitaliste dans ses dimensions matérielles, terre, ressources agricoles et minières, sous la forme de biens tangibles donc. Depuis quelques décennies, un phénomène nouveau apparaît. Des dimensions de la nature sont requalifiées en information, en services et en actifs financiers pour pouvoir à leur tour faire l'objet d'échanges marchands. Autrement dit une nouvelle classe de marchandises fictives apparaît (Karl Polanyi (1944)). Plutôt que de les nommer « immatérielles », je préfère parler de dématérialisation, car il s'agit d'un processus institutionnel, juridique et politique construit et voulu, et non d'une immanence. Analysant le cas des services écosystémiques, cet article propose une catégorisation permettant de comprendre comment l'institution marchande remo-dèle ainsi de grands pans de la nature, en trois grands moments. Le premier est celui de la qualification de la marchandise, qui vise à en définir les contours précis, la doter d'une mesure et de droits de propriété. Le deuxième processus est celui de l'évaluation, où l'objet considéré acquiert une valeur monétaire de référence. On parle quelquefois de monétisation. Le troisième et dernier moment de la création d'une marchandise fictive est celui de la valorisation. Il s'agit de dispositifs contractuels et/ou marchands qui transforment les valeurs en prix. Ce n'est qu'à cette ultime étape que de la valeur est effectivement créée, c'est-à-dire du capital. Malgré le caractère apparemment immatériel de ces nouvelles marchandises, les conséquences de leur création sur la nature et les relations que nous entretenons avec elle sont tout à fait matérielles. |
| Date: | 2018–12–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:wpaper:hal-01948581&r=all |
| By: | Ali Ardeshiri; Roya Etminani Ghasrodashti; Taha Hossein Rashidi; Mahyar Ardeshiri; Ken Willis |
| Abstract: | A significant part of the United Nations World Heritage Sites (WHSs) is located in developing countries. These sites attract an increasing number of tourist and income to these countries. Unfortunately, many of these WHSs are in a poor condition due to climatic and environmental impacts; war and tourism pressure, requiring the urgent need for restoration and preservation (Tuan & Navrud, 2007). In this study, we characterise residents from Shiraz city (visitors and non-visitors) willingness to invest in the management of the heritage sites through models for the preservation of heritage and development of tourism as a local resource. The research looks at different categories of heritage sites within Shiraz city, Iran. The measurement instrument is a stated preference referendum task administered state-wide to a sample of 489 respondents, with the payment mechanism defined as a purpose-specific incremental levy of a fixed amount over a set period of years. A Latent Class Binary Logit model, using parametric constraints is used innovatively to deal with any strategic voting such as Yea-sayers and Nay-sayers, as well as revealing the latent heterogeneity among sample members. Results indicate that almost 14% of the sampled population is unwilling to be levied any amount (Nay-sayers) to preserve any heritage sites. Not recognizing the presence of nay-sayers in the data or recognizing them but eliminating them from the estimation will result in biased Willingness to Pay (WTP) results and, consequently, biased policy propositions by authorities. Moreover, it is found that the type of heritage site is a driver of WTP. The results from this study provide insights into the WTP of heritage site visitors and non-visitors with respect to avoiding the impacts of future erosion and destruction and contributing to heritage management and maintenance policies. |
| Date: | 2019–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:1902.02418&r=all |
| By: | Heather Klemick; Henry Mason; Karen Sullivan |
| Abstract: | This study evaluates the effect of EPA’s Superfund cleanup program on children’s lead exposure. We linked two decades of blood lead level (BLL) measurements from children in six states with data on Superfund sites and other lead risk factors. We used quasi-experimental methods to identify the causal effect of proximity to Superfund cleanups on rates of elevated BLL. We estimated a difference-in-difference model comparing the change in elevated BLL of children closer to versus farther from lead-contaminated sites before, during, and after cleanup. We also estimated a triple difference model including children near hazardous sites with minimal to no lead contamination as a comparison group. We used spatial fixed effects and matching to minimize potential bias from unobserved differences between the treatment and comparison groups. Results indicate that Superfund cleanups lowered the risk of elevated BLL for children living within 2 kilometers of lead-contaminated sites 8 to 18 percent. |
| Keywords: | Blood lead levels, child health, lead exposure, Superfund, contaminated land |
| JEL: | I14 I18 Q51 Q53 |
| Date: | 2019–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:nev:wpaper:wp201901&r=all |
| By: | Elisabetta Cornago (OECD); Alexandros Dimitropoulos (OECD); Walid Oueslati (OECD) |
| Abstract: | The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of congestion pricing on the demand for clean transport modes. To this end, it draws on an empirical analysis of the effect of Milan’s congestion charge on the use of bike sharing. The analysis indicates that congestion pricing increases daily bike-sharing use by at least 5% in the short term. Extending the schedule of the congestion charge in the early evening increases bike-sharing use in the affected time window by 12%. The impact of the policy on bike-sharing use mainly occurs through the reduction of road traffic congestion, which makes cycling safer and more pleasant. The findings of the study indicate that policies aiming to reduce car use also have positive repercussions on the uptake of green mobility options. Relying solely on direct incentives for cycling, which often involve infrastructure projects, is likely insufficient to remove barriers to bike use. |
| Keywords: | bike sharing, Congestion pricing, sustainable mobility, urban road pricing |
| JEL: | Q58 R41 R48 |
| Date: | 2019–02–11 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:envaaa:143-en&r=all |
| By: | Nova A. Ramos; Maria Monina Cecilia A. Villena; Mariliza V. Ticsay; Maria Celeste H. Cadiz |
| Abstract: | The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture’s (SEARCA) current five-year plan, its tenth, focuses on inclusive and sustainable agricultural and rural development (ISARD), described as a scheme and approach of engaging multiple stakeholders toward improving the well-being of the rural poor through their improved natural resource-based livelihoods along with supportive systems and institutions that contribute to food and nutrition security of the wider population beyond present generations. Along ISARD emphases on environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and institutions and governance, SEARCA as a knowledge managing institution with a capacity building mandate, promotes adaptive and social learning, knowledge sharing and use, and knowledge creation with a deliberate effort to capture, store, and make explicit the tangible knowledges generated by its scholars, researchers, and partners. |
| Keywords: | KM, SEARCA, Southeast Asia |
| Date: | 2018 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:sag:seadps:2018:396&r=all |
| By: | Congressional Budget Office |
| Abstract: | The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers flood insurance and promotes floodplain management. CBO’s analysis of 5 million policies in effect in August 2016 showed that the NFIP’s expected one-year costs exceeded annual premiums (including fees and assessments paid by policyholders) by $1.4 billion. That shortfall stemmed primarily from premiums’ falling short of expected costs in coastal counties, which account for three-quarters of all NFIP policies nationwide. |
| JEL: | Q54 Q58 H42 G22 |
| Date: | 2017–09–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cbo:report:53028&r=all |
| By: | Louis-Gaëtan Giraudet (CIRED - Centre International de Recherche sur l'Environnement et le Développement - CIRAD - Centre de Coopération Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement - EHESS - École des hautes études en sciences sociales - AgroParisTech - ENPC - École des Ponts ParisTech - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique); Céline Guivarch (CIRED - Centre International de Recherche sur l'Environnement et le Développement - CIRAD - Centre de Coopération Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement - EHESS - École des hautes études en sciences sociales - AgroParisTech - ENPC - École des Ponts ParisTech - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) |
| Abstract: | We elicit simple conditions for an old puzzle -- over-provision of a public good. An asymmetric public good that benefits some contributors while harming others is subject to both free riding and free driving. Even though aggregate impacts are net positive, it can be over-provided if free drivers face provision costs that are sufficiently lower than free riders'. Asymmetric impacts further impose restrictions on Hicks-Kaldor improvements. We establish these results in a parsimonious model that can easily be applied to a variety of so-called NIMBY problems, for instance new public infrastructures and global warming mitigation. |
| Keywords: | NIMBY,free driving,public good,externalities,free riding,global warming |
| Date: | 2018–12–19 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:ciredw:hal-01960318&r=all |
| By: | Louis-Gaëtan Giraudet (CIRED - Centre International de Recherche sur l'Environnement et le Développement - CIRAD - Centre de Coopération Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement - EHESS - École des hautes études en sciences sociales - AgroParisTech - ENPC - École des Ponts ParisTech - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique); Cyril Bourgeois (CIRED - Centre International de Recherche sur l'Environnement et le Développement - CIRAD - Centre de Coopération Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement - EHESS - École des hautes études en sciences sociales - AgroParisTech - ENPC - École des Ponts ParisTech - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique); Philippe Quirion (CIRED - Centre International de Recherche sur l'Environnement et le Développement - CIRAD - Centre de Coopération Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement - EHESS - École des hautes études en sciences sociales - AgroParisTech - ENPC - École des Ponts ParisTech - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique); David Glotin (CIRED - Centre International de Recherche sur l'Environnement et le Développement - CIRAD - Centre de Coopération Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement - EHESS - École des hautes études en sciences sociales - AgroParisTech - ENPC - École des Ponts ParisTech - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) |
| Date: | 2018–12–21 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:ciredw:hal-01955954&r=all |