| 1. |
- Svensson, Jan, et al.
(author)
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Modeling museum context in CIDOC CRM using relational databases
- 2006
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In: Proceedings of CIDOC06, International Committee for Documentation of the International Council of Museums, Gothenburgh, Sweden..
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Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The museums are a rich source of knowledge about our cultural heritage. Unfortunately, the present standards for storing information in databases are not suited for the purpose of knowledge representation. In the article we argue why ontology is needed for modelling the knowledge. The ontology CIDOC CRM is a conceptual model to describe cultural heritage knowledge and it can also be utilized for structuring a corresponding database. This article discusses a design of a relational database capturing the class hierarchy of CIDOC CRM. The proposed design seems promising regarding querying efficiency.
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| 2. |
- Abbott, D. Wade, et al.
(author)
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Seaweed and Seaweed Bioactives for Mitigation of Enteric Methane : Challenges and Opportunities
- 2020
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In: Animals. - : MDPI AG. - 2076-2615. ; 10:12
-
Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Simple Summary The need to become more efficient in agriculture and the food industry exists parallel to the challenge of climate change. Meat and dairy production is the target of much scrutiny due to methane (CH4) emissions and global warming. On the other hand, it should be noted that two-thirds of the world's agricultural land consists of pastures and permanent grasslands and is used for livestock grazing. This land is predominantly unsuitable for arable purposes but facilitates the production of high-quality human-edible protein in the form of ruminant animal-derived meat and milk. This makes a significant contribution to feeding the world's population. There is a need to reduce CH4 emissions, however, and several approaches are being researched currently. Seaweeds are diverse plants containing bioactives that differ from their terrestrial counterparts and they are increasingly under investigation as a feed supplement for the mitigation of enteric CH4. Seaweeds are rich in bioactives including proteins, carbohydrates and to a lesser extent lipids, saponins, alkaloids and peptides. These bioactives could also play a role as feed ingredients to reduce enteric CH4. This review collates information on seaweeds and seaweed bioactives and their potential to impact on enteric CH4 emissions. Seaweeds contain a myriad of nutrients and bioactives including proteins, carbohydrates and to a lesser extent lipids as well as small molecules including peptides, saponins, alkaloids and pigments. The bioactive bromoform found in the red seaweed Asparagopsis taxiformis has been identified as an agent that can reduce enteric CH4 production from livestock significantly. However, sustainable supply of this seaweed is a problem and there are some concerns over its sustainable production and potential negative environmental impacts on the ozone layer and the health impacts of bromoform. This review collates information on seaweeds and seaweed bioactives and the documented impact on CH4 emissions in vitro and in vivo as well as associated environmental, economic and health impacts.
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| 3. |
- Björk, Mats, 1960-, et al.
(author)
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Methane emissions from macrophyte beach wrack on Baltic seashores
- 2023
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In: Ambio. - : Springer Nature. - 0044-7447 .- 1654-7209. ; 52:1, s. 171-181
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Beach wrack of marine macrophytes is a natural component of many beaches. To test if such wrack emits the potent greenhouse gas methane, field measurements were made at different seasons on beach wrack depositions of different ages, exposure, and distance from the water. Methane emissions varied greatly, from 0 to 176 mg CH4-C m−2 day−1, with a clear positive correlation between emission and temperature. Dry wrack had lower emissions than wet. Using temperature data from 2016 to 2020, seasonal changes in fluxes were calculated for a natural wrack accumulation area. Such calculated average emissions were close to zero during winter, but peaked in summer, with very high emissions when daily temperatures exceeded 20 °C. We conclude that waterlogged beach wrack significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and that emissions might drastically increase with increasing global temperatures. When beach wrack is collected into heaps away from the water, the emissions are however close to zero.
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| 4. |
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| 5. |
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| 6. |
- Cai, Zipan, 1992-
(author)
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Towards a Scenario-based Spatial Dynamic Modeling for Predicting Urban Land Use Change : Planning Tools and Comparative Analysis
- 2023
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- As global urbanization progresses, cities worldwide are growing in size, which leads to many economic, environmental, and management challenges. Recent advancements in spatial data analysis and algorithmic geography have also led to the development of various urban model-based planning support systems (PSS) for urban planning. These PSSs aim to assist urban decision-makers in understanding urban information and collaborating on planning to address urban development challenges. Advanced urban planning concepts are, however, always multidisciplinary, multi-situational, and continuously evolving. In addition to the development of more advanced urban information and communications technology (ICT) and management, planning concepts that promote urban health and sustainable development are needed to meet residents’ physical, spiritual, and social needs, and promote more sustainable lifestyles. These factors create the need for a more rigorous methodological and theoretical foundation to apply PSS to urban planning at the microscale. A scenario-based spatial dynamic modeling approach is proposed in this thesis to address this research gap, allowing for a more precise matching of local policy scenarios and desired development patterns for practical planning support purposes. Several urban development scenarios and their potential impacts are explored by analyzing future urban land use changes. The establishment of this planning support approach effectively integrates spatial analysis, simulation model, policy revision, and participative planning. First, the thesis examines the rules and correlations underlying land unit transformations resulting from human-land interactions in spatial dynamic models by investigating mechanisms driving changes in urban land use. Second, a series of possible urban development simulations are generated through several case studies that employ a variety of representative cities with different urban contexts as model test sites including Nanjing in China, Stockholm in Sweden, and Chicago in the USA to evaluate their validity and practicality. Socioeconomics, ecological systems, and urban amenities are among the research themes that provide a more realistic and practical view of urban development. Last, visualization of the simulation results and quantitative information analyses and transformation is utilized to arrive at recommendations for revising planning policies and promoting sustainable development strategies.The challenge of adapting successful experiences of urban transformation from one city to another is considerable and cannot be achieved by merely replicating single projects or developments. An important goal was to address this challenge by developing general methods for model-assisted planning and then exploring their applicability and scalability across different contexts and geographical regions. Obtained results confirm that prioritizing industrial and transportation sectors in urban development is the most significant factor contributing to the rapid expansion of cities. This allocation of resources leads to the development of supporting infrastructure and employment opportunities, thereby attracting more people and industries to urban areas. Limiting the expansion of built-up areas and preserving green spaces is a desired measure to protect natural assets and the composition of cities and mitigate the negative environmental consequences of urbanization. Moreover, it is found that there are significant differences in the spatial and temporal needs and dependencies of residents in different areas with respect to natural and social amenities, providing a basis for future land development in residential and commercial areas of a city. Based on these findings, policymakers can more readily test and evaluate “what-if” scenarios using a process-based approach to avoid uncontrolled urban growth. In spite of limitations and uncertainties, the tools presented in this thesis are relevant for urban policymakers to enhance stakeholder interaction and consensus building in the decision-making process. This work has demonstrated the methodological steps for the implementation of these tools, as well as the general potential benefits of dynamic modeling for sustainable city planning and development.
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| 7. |
- Chopin, Thierry, et al.
(author)
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Deep-ocean seaweed dumping for carbon sequestration: Questionable, risky, and not the best use of valuable biomass
- 2024
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In: One Earth. - : Elsevier BV. - 2590-3330 .- 2590-3322. ; 7:3, s. 359-364
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Deep-ocean seaweed dumping is not an ecological, economical, or ethical answer to climate-change mitigation via carbon “sequestration.” Without sound science and sufficient knowledge on impacts to these fragile ecosystems, it distracts from more rational and effective blue-carbon interventions. We call for a moratorium on sinking seaweeds to deep-ocean ecosystems until its efficacy is established, and there is robust, evidence-based assessment of its environmental, economic, and societal sustainability.
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| 8. |
- Fahlander, Fredrik, 1965, et al.
(author)
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Forum för debatt? : teori och metod i arkeologisk periodica
- 1998
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In: Arkeologiska texter : trendanalyser av nordisk periodica. Red. P. Cornell, F. Fahlander & K. Kristiansen (GOTARC. Serie C. Arkeologiska skrifter, 21). - 9185952702 ; , s. 85-94
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Book chapter (other academic/artistic)
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| 9. |
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| 10. |
- Franzén, D., et al.
(author)
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Beach-cast as biofertiliser in the Baltic Sea region-potential limitations due to cadmium-content
- 2019
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In: Ocean and Coastal Management. - : Elsevier BV. - 0964-5691 .- 1873-524X. ; 169, s. 20-26
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Macroalgal mass blooms and accumulating beach-cast are increasing problems in many coastal areas. However, beach-cast is also a potentially valuable marine bioresource, e.g. as a biofertiliser in coastal agriculture. One limiting factor in use of beach-cast as a fertiliser is uncertainty regarding the cadmium (Cd) concentration depending on beach-cast composition and location. In this study, chemical analyses were performed on beach-cast from Burgsviken Bay off Gotland, in the Baltic Sea. The results revealed large variations in cadmium concentration depending on sampling location and beach-cast composition, with levels ranging between 0.13 and 2.2 mg Cd/kg dry matter (DM). Of 15 beach-cast samples analysed, one had a cadmium content above the Swedish statutory limit for sewage sludge biofertiliser (2 mg Cd/kg DM) and four had values above the limit suggested by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency for 2030 (0.8 mg/kg DM). Species-specific analysis revealed that eelgrass (Zostera marina) contained significantly higher cadmium concentrations than filamentous red algae species (Ceramium and Polysiphonia spp.). Avoiding eelgrass-rich beach-cast by seasonal timing of harvesting and monitoring differences in cadmium concentrations between harvesting sites could thus facilitate use of beach-cast as biofertiliser. © 2018
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| 11. |
- Franzen, Frida, et al.
(author)
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Governance hurdles for expansion of low trophic mariculture production in Sweden
- 2024
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In: Ambio. - : Springer Nature. - 0044-7447 .- 1654-7209.
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The study examines the governance of low trophic species mariculture (LTM) using Sweden as a case study. LTM, involving species such as seaweeds and mollusks, offers ecosystem services and nutritious foods. Despite its potential to contribute to blue growth and Sustainable Development Goals, LTM development in the EU and OECD countries has stagnated. A framework for mapping governance elements (institutions, structures, and processes) and analyzing governance objective (effective, equitable, responsive, and robust) was combined with surveys addressed to the private entrepreneurs in the sector. Analysis reveals ineffective institutions due to lack of updated legislation and guidance, resulting in ambiguous interpretations. Governance structures include multiple decision-making bodies without a clear coordination agency. Licensing processes were lengthy and costly for the private entrepreneurs, and the outcomes were uncertain. To support Sweden’s blue bioeconomy, LTM governance requires policy integration, clearer direction, coordinated decision-making, and mechanisms for conflict resolution and learning.
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| 12. |
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| 13. |
- Gröndahl, Fredrik, et al.
(author)
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A Practical Approach to Integrating Research and Education : A Course Experiment from KTH, Sweden
- 2016
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In: New Developments in Engineering Education for Sustainable Development. - Cham : Springer. - 9783319329321 - 9783319329338 ; , s. 69-79
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Book chapter (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In this study we evaluate a project-based learning course called Applied Ecology, within the master program Sustainable Technology at the Division of Industrial Ecology, at KTH—Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden. The case study in the course is focused on the effects of a relatively large Bay, “Burgsvikenâ€, situated on the island Gotland in the middle of the Baltic Sea, that has changed due to the eutrophication in the area. The eutrophication of the Bay has initiated bottom up processes of discussion and engagement among the stakeholders in the area, for the enhancement of the water quality and biological services of the bay, that would in turn improve fishing, swimming, biological diversity and tourism. There are several stakeholders involved in the project: a local non-profit organisation, farmers, entrepreneurs, authorities, permanent and seasonal inhabitants, researchers and others. The course is evaluated according to the methodology of Brundiers and Wiek (2013). Student evaluations have been conducted and analysed in relation to four phases: (1) Orienting phase, formulation of research question. (2) Framing phase, methodology and study planning. (3) Research phase, field study and other examinations. (4) Implementation phase, communication of the results with different stakeholders. The Applied Ecology course shares many of the positive features of other PPBL courses in the sustainability field—namely that it focuses on a real sustainability problem and that the student-centred learning approach and interactions between students and stakeholders make the student partnership in the project feel real, thus providing a practical insight of complex societal challenges. There are potential ways of improving all four phases of the course that were studied, but especially in the research phase and the implementation phase more efforts are needed. Feedback and reflections in the research phase could be improved by a clearer communication and to some extent changed pedagogical process through the course. All phases will be improved by increased communication before, during and after fieldwork between student, teachers and stakeholders.
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| 14. |
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| 15. |
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| 16. |
- Gröndahl, Fredrik
(author)
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Förödelsen i miljökatastrofens spår
- 2005
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In: Forskning & Framsteg. - Stockholm, Sweden : Forskning och framsteg. - 0015-7937. ; :4, s. 58-62
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Journal article (pop. science, debate, etc.)
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| 17. |
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| 18. |
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| 19. |
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| 20. |
- Gröndahl, Fredrik
(author)
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Naturens fantastiska ljusfenomen
- 2005
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In: WWF-eko : tidskrift för WWF vänner. - Solna, Sweden : Världsnaturfonden WWF. - 0284-5423. ; :2
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Journal article (pop. science, debate, etc.)
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| 21. |
- Gröndahl, Fredrik
(author)
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Removal of Surface Blooms of the Cyanobacteria Nodularia spumigena : A Pilot Project Conducted in the Baltic Sea
- 2009
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In: Ambio. - : Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. - 0044-7447 .- 1654-7209. ; 38:2, s. 79-84
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Blooms of Cyanobacteria are a major concern during the summer period in the Baltic Sea Proper. The nitrogen-fixing Nodularia spumigena forms massive toxic blooms in the surface layers, with a concentration of biomass in the uppermost 1-m water layer. This pilot study describes the construction and test of a Nodularia collecting device during the summer of 2006. Oil booms were modified so that their dragging skirt was replaced with a water-permeable forming fabric used in the pulp and paper industry. The results showed that the modified oil booms worked and operated in an effective way when towed in the sea. Calculations showed that the collecting device used in this study has a theoretical capacity of cleaning 0.055 km(2) (5.5 ha) of sea surface hr(-1), compared with the 6600 km(2) of the Baltic Sea that were covered by Nodularia blooms during the summer of 2005. Future possibilities for Nodularia harvesting are discussed.
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| 22. |
- Gröndahl, Fredrik, et al.
(author)
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Survey of waste water disposal practices at Antarctic research stations
- 2009
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In: Polar Research. - : Norwegian Polar Institute. - 0800-0395 .- 1751-8369. ; 28:2, s. 298-306
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- To inform the future practices to be employed for handling waste water and grey water at the Swedish Antarctic station, Wasa, in Dronning Maud Land, the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat took the initiative to survey the practices of the 28 nations with stations in Antarctica. A questionnaire was sent out to all members of the Antarctic Environment Officers Network during the autumn of 2005. Questions were asked about the handling of waste water and grey water, the type of sewage treatment, and installation and operational costs. The response to the questionnaire was very good (79%), and the results showed that 37% of the permanent stations and 69% of the summer stations lack any form of treatment facility. When waste water and grey water containing microorganisms are released, these microorganisms can remain viable in low-temperature Antarctic conditions for prolonged periods. Microorganisms may also have the potential to infect and cause disease, or become part of the gut flora of local bird and mammal populations, and fish and marine invertebrates. The results from 71 stations show that much can still be done by the 28 nations operating the 82 research stations in Antarctica. The technology exists for effective waste water treatment in the challenging Antarctic conditions. The use of efficient technology at all permanent Antarctic research stations would greatly reduce the human impact on the pristine Antarctic environment. In order to protect the Antarctic environment from infectious agents introduced by humans, consideration should also be given to preventing the release of untreated waste water and grey water from the smaller summer stations.
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| 23. |
- Gröndahl, Fredrik, et al.
(author)
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Sustainable use of Baltic Sea natural resources based on ecological engineering and biogas production
- 2009
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In: ECOSYSTEMS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT VII. - 9781845641948 ; , s. 153-161
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Eutrophication is a major threat to the Baltic Sea, causing algae blooms and hypoxic bottoms. Ecological engineering methods aiming at help mitigating the nutrient imbalance problems have already been initiated or are being planned in the coastal zones of the Baltic Sea. This includes harvesting of reed, macro algae and blue mussels as nutrient and energy natural resources. The potential and feasibility of such methods to form the basis for sustainable use of natural resources is governed by the ecological, technical, economic and social aspects associated with the whole chain of processes from biomass to end products, e.g. biogas, fertilizers, and wastes. As a first step in a sustainability assessment, we show that biogas production from algae and reed is associated with a net energy benefit. Blue mussels do not result in a net energy benefit if used for biogas production, but represent the most efficient way of removing nutrients. Based on these preliminary results, we suggest that biogas production from reed and macro algae is worthy of further investigation, whereas for blue mussels, an alternative product must be found.
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| 24. |
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| 25. |
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| 26. |
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| 27. |
- Gröndahl, Fredrik, et al.
(author)
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The Trelleborg Concept
- 2008
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In: Baltic Cities Environmental bulletin. - Turku, Finland : Union of the Baltic Cities. - 1455-0903. ; 2:08, s. 13-
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Journal article (other academic/artistic)
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| 28. |
- Gu, Zhenhong
(author)
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An analysis of architectural and urban planning strategies for developing energy efficient cities in China
- 2018
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- This thesis presents a detailed analysis of architecture and urban planning strategies for developingenergy-efficient cities in a Chinese context. The overall aim of the work is to examine how Chineseurbanisation and city construction can be improved from an energy-saving perspective.China is in the process of transforming from an agricultural to an industrial country, and it willconsume more energy than ever before. Creating energy-efficient cities is an important part ofsustainable energy development. City development is a complicated process that affects the interestsof many stakeholders, and the strategies for establishing energy-efficient cities can be directed at twolevels: components and systems.The main components of energy-efficient cities are energy-efficient buildings, which have been a hottopic in recent years. In China, a number of new, stricter codes for energy-efficient buildings arebeing issued. In addition, many research institutes have developed Building EnvironmentalAssessment (BEA) methods, where energy efficiency is an important factor in the models. Varioustechnical solutions for energy efficiency are also being developed. This thesis analyses differentsolutions and their applicability within the Chinese context.The investigation in Nanjing clearly demonstrated that system-level strategies are vital for achievingenergy-efficient cities. The Swedish energy efficient models of the housing development HammarbySjöstad and the smaller scale Eco-villages were analysed to see if these solutions were compatiblewith the Chinese context. The strategies to reduce energy demands can be further subdivided intoreducing building energy consumption and reducing transportation energy consumption. Thesestrategies were implemented into the urban design for the southern region of Hexi New City District,Nanjing, which will be used as an example of new urban construction in a rapidly urbanising China.This thesis proposes a route for developing energy-efficient cities. In the construction of Chinesecities, technological strategies for energy-efficient buildings have been implemented successfully, butthe systems structure of such cities requires special attention, particularly in the context of rapidurbanisation. Urban planning with energy considerations must be seen as equally important to thedevelopment of energy-efficient buildings. City planners should play a key role in this process, notby saving energy directly, but indirectly, by influencing the behaviour of persons living, working andtravelling within their city. Local and regional governments, which have special powers in China,should take responsibility for policymaking, demonstration, standardisation and education. In thebroad context of intelligent urban planning, technological, economic, and social strategies for energyefficientbuildings will all play a positive role.China’s government has started the process of improving urban energy efficiency. However, thisprocess will be difficult and progress will be slow. The thesis discusses the conditions in the Chinesecontext and identifies problems that require solutions in the near future.
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| 29. |
- Guinguina, Abdulai, et al.
(author)
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Potential of the Red Macroalga Bonnemaisonia hamifera in Reducing Methane Emissions from Ruminants
- 2023
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In: Animals. - : Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI). - 2076-2615. ; 13:18
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Researchers have been exploring seaweeds to reduce methane (CH4) emissions from livestock. This study aimed to investigate the potential of a red macroalga, B. hamifera, as an alternative to mitigate CH4 emissions. B. hamifera, harvested from the west coast of Sweden, was used in an in vitro experiment using a fully automated gas production system. The experiment was a randomized complete block design consisting of a 48 h incubation that included a control (grass silage) and B. hamifera inclusions at 2.5%, 5.0%, and 7.5% of grass silage OM mixed with buffered rumen fluid. Predicted in vivo CH4 production and total gas production were estimated by applying a set of models to the gas production data and in vitro fermentation characteristics were evaluated. The results demonstrated that the inclusion of B. hamifera reduced (p = 0.01) predicted in vivo CH4 and total gas productions, and total gas production linearly decreased (p = 0.03) with inclusion of B. hamifera. The molar proportion of propionate increased (p = 0.03) while isovalerate decreased (p = 0.04) with inclusion of B. hamifera. Chemical analyses revealed that B. hamifera had moderate concentrations of polyphenols. The iodine content was low, and there was no detectable bromoform, suggesting quality advantages over Asparagopsis taxiformis. Additionally, B. hamifera exhibited antioxidant activity similar to Resveratrol. The findings of this study indicated that B. hamifera harvested from temperate waters of Sweden possesses capacity to mitigate CH4 in vitro.
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| 30. |
- Guyot-Tephany, Josselin, et al.
(author)
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Two decades of research on ocean multi-use : achievements, challenges and the need for transdisciplinarity
- 2024
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In: npj Ocean Sustainability. - : Springer Nature. - 2731-426X. ; 3:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This paper offers a comprehensive, analytical, and critically informed overview of the current state of ocean multi-use research. It delves into the origins, trajectory, and driving forces behind this emerging research field, all within the broader context of investigations addressing the management of increasingly diverse and intensifying activities at sea. The Bibliometrix R package is employed to analyze the social, geographical, and conceptual dimensions of multi-use scientific production. The results obtained are then compared to a larger corpus of publications focusing on both multiple-use Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Marine Spatial Planning (MSP). Finally, the paper addresses research gaps, with a particular emphasis on the transdisciplinary challenges associated with translating this new marine policy concept into practical implementation and extending its application beyond European seas.
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| 31. |
- Hasselström, Linus, et al.
(author)
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Payments for nutrient uptake in the blue bioeconomy & ndash; When to be careful and when to go for it
- 2021
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In: Marine Pollution Bulletin. - : Elsevier BV. - 0025-326X .- 1879-3363. ; 167
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Harvesting of marine biomass for various applications may generate ecosystem services that currently lack a market price. One of these is nutrient uptake, which could counteract eutrophication. Market-based instruments (MBIs) such as cap & trade, compensatory mitigation, and payment for ecosystem services could help internalize such positive externalities. However, activities of the blue bioeconomy are diverse. We show that identifiable market characteristics can provide guidance concerning when to use these instruments and not. We find that the activities most suitable for MBIs are those that have positive environmental impacts but that are not (yet) financially viable. For activities that are already profitable on the biomass market, ensuring 'additionality' may be a significant problem for MBIs, especially for cap & trade systems or compensatory mitigation. We provide an overview of how some current biomass options fit into this framework and give suggestions on which biomass types to target.
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| 32. |
- Hasselström, Linus, et al.
(author)
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Socioeconomic prospects of a seaweed bioeconomy in Sweden
- 2020
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In: Scientific Reports. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 2045-2322. ; 10
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Seaweed cultivation is a large industry worldwide, but production in Europe is small compared to production in Asian countries. In the EU, the motivations for seaweed farming may be seen from two perspectives; one being economic growth through biomass production and the other being the provisioning of ecosystem services such as mitigating eutrophication. In this paper, we assess the economic potential of large-scale cultivation of kelp, Saccharina latissima, along the Swedish west coast, including the value of externalities. The findings suggest that seaweed farming has the potential of becoming a profitable industry in Sweden. Furthermore, large-scale seaweed farming can sequester asignificant share of annual anthropogenic nitrogen and phosphorus inflows to the basins of the Swedish west coast (8% of N and 60% of P). Concerning the valuation of externalities, positive values generated from sequestration of nitrogen and phosphorus are potentially counteracted by negative values frominterference with recreational values. Despite the large N and P uptake, the socioeconomic value of this sequestration is only a minor share of the potential financial value from biomass production. This suggests that e.g. payment schemes for nutrient uptake based on the socioeconomic values generatedis not likely to be a tipping point for the industry. Additionally, seaweed cultivation is not a cost-efficient measure in itself to remove nutrients. Policy should thus be oriented towards industry development, as the market potential of the biomass will be the driver that may unlock these bioremediationopportunities.
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| 33. |
- Hasselström, Linus, et al.
(author)
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The impact of seaweed cultivation on ecosystem services - a case study from the west coast of Sweden
- 2018
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In: Marine Pollution Bulletin. - : Elsevier BV. - 0025-326X .- 1879-3363. ; 133, s. 53-64
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- © 2018 The Authors Seaweed cultivation attracts growing interest and sustainability assessments from various perspectives are needed. The paper presents a holistic qualitative assessment of ecosystem services affected by seaweed cultivation on the Swedish west coast. Results suggest that supporting, regulating and provisioning services are mainly positively or non-affected while some of the cultural services are likely negatively affected. The analysis opens for a discussion on the framing of seaweed cultivation – is it a w ay of supplying ecosystem services and/or a way of generating valuable biomass? Exploring these framings further in local contexts may be valuable for identifying trade-offs and designing appropriate policies and development strategies. Many of the found impacts are likely generalizable in their character across sites and scales of cultivation, but for some services, including most of the supporting services, the character of impacts is likely to be site-specific and not generalizable.
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| 34. |
- Iital, Arvo, et al.
(author)
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Impact of changes in nutrient inputs to the water quality of the shallow Haapsalu Bay, the Baltic Sea
- 2010
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In: Journal of Environmental Monitoring. - : Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). - 1464-0325 .- 1464-0333. ; 12:8, s. 1531-1536
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This study evaluated the impact of socio-economic and lifestyle changes on nutrient loads and water quality in Haapsalu Bay, the Baltic Sea between 1995-1996 and 2003-2004. Monthly monitoring data of water quality in four rivers discharging to the bay and seawater at five sea stations were used. External input of TN to the bay remained almost unchanged during the study period despite of the somewhat higher riverine load that was explained by intensified agriculture. The TP input decreased by approximately 45% due to the decrease in river and point source loads. Point sources contribute about one-third of the P load to the bay. An overall decreasing gradient from the rivers to the mouth of the bay was observed both for TP and TN concentrations indicating probable removal of these elements from the water column along the east-west transect. In order to keep the TN/TP ratio within the range that suppresses eutrophication in the bay, further efforts must be implemented to reduce point source phosphorus load.
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| 35. |
- Kotta, Jonne, et al.
(author)
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Assessing the potential for sea-based macroalgae cultivation and its application for nutrient removal in the Baltic Sea
- 2022
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In: Science of the Total Environment. - : Elsevier BV. - 0048-9697 .- 1879-1026. ; 839
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Marine eutrophication is a pervasive and growing threat to global sustainability. Macroalgal cultivation is a promising circular economy solution to achieve nutrient reduction and food security. However, the location of production hotspots is not well known. In this paper the production potential of macroalgae of high commercial value was predicted across the Baltic Sea region. In addition, the nutrient limitation within and adjacent to macroalgal farms was investigated to suggest optimal site-specific configuration of farms. The production potential of Saccharina latissima was largely driven by salinity and the highest production yields are expected in the westernmost Baltic Sea areas where salinity is >23. The direct and interactive effects of light availability, temperature, salinity and nutrient concentrations regulated the predicted changes in the production of Ulva intestinalis and Fucus vesiculosus. The western and southern Baltic Sea exhibited the highest farming potential for these species, with promising areas also in the eastern Baltic Sea. Macroalgal farming did not induce significant nutrient limitation. The expected spatial propagation of nutrient limitation caused by macroalgal farming was less than 100–250 m. Higher propagation distances were found in areas of low nutrient and low water exchange (e.g. offshore areas in the Baltic Proper) and smaller distances in areas of high nutrient and high water exchange (e.g. western Baltic Sea and Gulf of Riga). The generated maps provide the most sought-after input to support blue growth initiatives that foster the sustainable development of macroalgal cultivation and reduction of in situ nutrient loads in the Baltic Sea.
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| 36. |
- Krizsan, Sophie Julie, et al.
(author)
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Characterization and in vitro assessment of seaweed bioactives with potential to reduce methane production
- 2022
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In: FRONTIERS IN ANIMAL SCIENCE. - : Frontiers Media SA. - 2673-6225. ; 3
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This study collates compositional analysis of seaweeds data with information generated from in vitro gas production assays in the presence and absence of seaweeds. The aim was to assess and rank 27 native northern European seaweeds as potential feed ingredients for use to reduce methane emissions from ruminants. It provides information for use in future in vivo dietary trials concerning feed manipulation strategies to reduce CH4 emissions efficiently from domestic ruminants based on dietary seaweed supplementation. The seaweeds H. siliquosa and A. nodosum belonging to phylum Phaeophyta displayed the highest concentration of phlorotannins and antioxidant activity among the macroalgae giving anti-methanogenic effect in vitro, while this explanation was not valid for the observed reduction in methane when supplementing with C. filum and L. digitata in this study. D. carnosa and C. tenuicorne belonging to phylum Rhodophyta had the highest protein content among the macroalgae that reduced methane production in vitro. There were no obvious explanation from the compositional analysis conducted in this study to the reduced methane production in vitro when supplementing with U. lactuca belonging to phylum Chlorophyta. The strongest and most complete methane inhibition in vitro was observed when supplementing with Asparagopsis taxiformis that was used as a positive control in this study.
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| 37. |
- Li, Ji, et al.
(author)
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Life Cycle Assessment of a large commercial kelp farm in Shandong, China
- 2023
-
In: Science of the Total Environment. - : Elsevier BV. - 0048-9697 .- 1879-1026. ; 903
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The environmental benefits of seaweed cultivation have gained a lot of attention, both in policy strategies and by private companies. Sustainability evaluations of seaweed farming have however focused on a very small part of global production of seaweed - on European cultivations at research and pilot-scales although Asia stands for 99 % of global production with China alone producing 60 %. In this study, we use Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate the environmental performance of a 400-hectare Chinese kelp farm with a yearly harvest of 60,000 tons. Primary data from the farm was used to assess impacts up until harvest for the functional unit of 1 ton of fresh-weight kelp. Included in the LCA were impact on climate change, acidification terrestrial and marine eutrophication, and use of land water and energy. In addition, we calculated nutrient uptake. Further, we extracted inventory data of four published LCA studies of farmed kelp and recalculated environmental impacts, applying the same background data and method choices with the aim to compare the effects of scale and cultivation system. The results of the hotspot analysis showed that the plastic ropes and buoys dominated impacts on climate change, freshwater and marine eutrophication, and energy consumption. Consequently, the most effective improvement action was recycling after use. The yearly harvest of the Chinese farm was 1000–4000 times larger than previously evaluated farms compared. Results suggest that streamlined and mature production in the large-scale Chinese kelp farm led to lower electricity and fuel consumption compared to small-scale production, thus placing the Chinese farm with a climate impact of 57.5 kg CO2 eq. per ton fresh-weight kelp on the lower end when comparing the carbon footprint. There was a large variation in carbon footprints, which implies that the kelp cultivation sector has considerable room for optimization.
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| 38. |
- Mäkivierikko, Aram
(author)
-
A Needs-Based Approach towards Fostering Long-term Engagement with Energy Feedback among Local Residents
- 2019
-
Licentiate thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- In order to reach the current climate goals, energy consumption needs to decrease in all sectors, including households, which produce 20% of the European emissions. However, it is difficult to increase residents’ engagement in their household electricity consumption as it is an ‘invisible’ form of energy, the monetary incentives are often too small and environmental incentives are not very effective. Building on the idea that an engagement mechanism should be based on user needs, and recent research showing that social influence can be an effective way to affect consumption behaviour, this thesis examines the potential of a neighbourhood-based digital local social network providing feedback on household electricity consumption as an engagement solution. By helping neighbours to know each other better, such a network could meet the basic human need of belonging to a group, while also taking advantage of the social influence between neighbours to increase the effectiveness of the energy feedback provided.This thesis sought to: 1) Identify needs of residents that could be served by a local social network and explore whether such a network could provide a beneficial context for energy feedback; 2) identify and evaluate a set of design principles for energy feedback and use them to propose a prototype feedback design suitable for use in a local social network; and 3) design and implement a baseline study for measuring changes in aspects of social and environmental sustainability in a neighbourhood that introduction of a local social network can achieve, such as social cohesion, trust, safety, and energy attitudes and behaviour.In order to achieve these objectives, the Research Through Design methodology was used. This resulted in mixed methods research using quantitative (household survey) and qualitative (focus group interviews, stakeholder consultation workshop) methods. The research was conducted in two eco-districts in Stockholm, Sweden: Hammarby Sjöstad and Stockholm Royal Seaport.Regarding the first objective, results from the household survey indicated a need for increased interaction between neighbours in Stockholm Royal Seaport, while the focus group discussions revealed local communication needs that a local social network could meet. However, the possibility to use social influence between neighbours in increasing the intention to save energy was shown to be rather weak, possibly because of the current low level of connection between neighbours. Regarding the second objective, a set of design principles was identified using a literature study. They were used to create a design prototype of energy feedback that was presented to potential end-users in a stakeholder consultation workshop and then refined using suggestions given in the workshop. The workshop indicated support for many of the design principles as they were indirectly mentioned in the discussions. The design principle of fair feedback was further explored, suggesting use of typical household consumption as part of a fair comparison metric and when setting reduction goals.Regarding the third objective, an evaluation method with baseline survey and follow-up surveys was suggested. The household survey served as a baseline for measuring social and environmental sustainability aspects in a neighbourhood. Further research is needed on the effectiveness of a local social network as an engagement mechanism for energy feedback.
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| 39. |
- Mäkivierikko, Aram
(author)
-
Sustaining Sustainable Behaviours of Citizens by Creating Value in Their Everyday Life
- 2023
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Over 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions derive from household consumption patterns. To reach the 1.5-degree target set in the Paris Agreement, new interventions to influence household behaviours are needed. This thesis examined two areas, household electricity consumption and waste sorting, where behaviour plays a large role. To change behaviour, households need information and feedback regarding their consumption, but in an era of information overload it is difficult to reach individuals. This thesis explored whether households can be better reached by a service that creates value for its users, so that feedback is noticed and acted upon over a sustained period. Specific objectives were to: (1) identify needs of citizens that could be addressed with a local digital service and develop such a service; (2) design and develop elements of the service to promote selected sustainable behaviours affecting household electricity consumption and household waste sorting; and (3) evaluate whether these elements can improve awareness of sustainability matters and promote pro-environmental behaviour among residents.To fulfil objective (1), a local social network for neighbourhoods was designed and developed. A phone survey in Stockholm Royal Seaport confirmed low neighbour interaction, while focus group interviews in Hammarby Sjöstad identified specific local information and communication needs. To fulfil objective (2), a subset of design principles identified from the literature was used to design feedback for the local social network. The feedback was developed into a prototype through workshop and focus group discussions. To fulfil objective (3), residents were provided with feedback and interventions in two pilot studies in Stockholm, a 15-month study on electricity consumption involving 281 students at KTH and a 12-month study on waste sorting involving 61 households in Stockholm Royal Seaport having an automatic waste collection system. The study on electricity showed a 3.3 %-unit peak-hour reduction for the intervention group and 46 %-unit reduction for saving participants. Average participation in peak load reduction was 3 months, but some stayed for almost the entire period, indicating potential for long-term engagement. Incentives were not necessary, but improved outcomes. The waste study found increased plastic sorting among app users, but also challenges in data collection and analysis. Overall, the value-creating approach can be useful if user needs are met correctly, and reaches a larger user group with feedback than conventional energy apps.
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| 40. |
- Nathaniel, Hanna, et al.
(author)
-
Cd accumulation in soil from beachcast application : A long-term prediction of its reintroduction for bio-fertilisation in Gotland, Sweden
-
Other publication (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The ecological consequences of using beachcast compost as an agricultural resource input merit study. Using beachcast compost as a biofertiliser has multiple positive effects on agroecosystems, while also serving to remedy the negative effects on marine ecosystems caused by excessive beachcast production due to eutrophication. This process thus presents an opportunity to contribute to circular nutrient management and the development of sustainable agricultural, but it may also result in accumulation Cd (Cd) in the soil. In Gotland, Sweden, an example of cross-scale interaction between marine and agricultural domains has emerged from a national policy subsidising beachcast harvesting, which may help reintroduce the historical tradition of using beachcast in agriculture. To estimate potential risks, a field experiment and Cd mass balance were conducted to predict the rate of Cd accumulation, changes in soil Cd fractions, and potential beachcast application methods that avoid Cd soil accumulation. In the scenario where the maximum Cd input from beachcast compost is set to the same threshold as the level established for sewage sludge—0.75 g ha–1 year–1—beachcast compost with a Cd content of 1.5 mg kg–1 dw (the EU threshold for biofertilisers) could be applied in an amount of approximately 2000 kg ha–1 per year (one-tenth of the amount applied in this study). Therefore, the long-term effects of Cd soil accumulation resulting from continuous application of beachcast as fertiliser on agroecosystems cannot be disregarded and are of global relevance.
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| 41. |
- Nathaniel, Hanna
(author)
-
Insights to beachcast management on Gotland, Sweden : An Industrial Ecology perspective on waste-resource ambiguity
- 2023
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Beachcast or beach wrack, washed-up algae and seaweed, used to be a highly sought-after agricultural resource (fertiliser and soil conditioner) in coastal communities around the world before being replaced by chemical fertilisers, but considering the talks of a circular bio-economy – can we reintroduce it? Since the abandonment of beachcast in agriculture, the amount of beachcast has significantly increased as an effect of eutrophication caused by the use of chemical fertiliser, and the material is commonly considered waste. Meanwhile, soils have degraded and need the multiple positive effects on agroecosystems that beachcast could provide. So, while harvesting the biomass serves to remedy the adverse ecosystem effects on marine ecosystems (from excessive organic material, i.e. macroalgae blooms), beachcast could potentially contribute to more sustainable food production.Sadly, it is not simple. This potentially symbiotic process infers uncertainties regarding soil cadmium accumulation, coastal ecosystem effects, and other challenges - and despite multiple studies and attempts at a waste-to-resource conversion of beachcast, the challenges remain unsolved, and a novel take on the topic seems necessary.On Gotland, Sweden, with a historical tradition of using beachcast in agriculture, a modern governance system for management has emerged from a national policy subsidising beachcast harvesting, which has partly come to connect the marine and agricultural domains, among other actors. In this case, beachcast harvesting is subsidised as a measure to curb eutrophication and reduce the detrimental effects of excessive beachcast, a phenomenon present in the Baltic Sea and many other coastal regions worldwide that are caused by an accelerating nutrient accumulation at sea and sediment stocks. So, by further applying beachcast as a fertiliser in agriculture and horticulture, a practical example of a regional land-marine nutrient loop could be created to make beachcast management more sustainable. However, multiple challenges need to be addressed. This thesis and case study of Gotland, Sweden, presents an illustrative example of contemporary beachcast governance and management that provides knowledge and insights to support policy development and more sustainable beachcast management practices. insights for policy that can support the development of more sustainable management practices. This is done by using semi-structured interviews to understand the beachcast governance and management practices based on stakeholder perceptions (Paper I), performing a cost-benefit analysis of beach-cast harvest to assess the economics of closing land-marine nutrient loops in the Baltic Sea region (Paper II), conducting a cultivation experiment to predict future trends in soil cadmium concentration from applying beachcast as fertiliser (Paper III), and mapping regional variations in chemical composition of fresh and composted beachcast to consider future treatments (Paper IV). The results show that to overcome the challenges and achieve more sustainable practices, the following measures and considerations are essential: further supporting continued experimentation and monitoring of marine ecosystems to handle the harvest-hesitation caused by the uncertainties associated with marine ecosystem effects; sampling of composted material and careful agricultural use to remedy the waste-resource ambiguity associated with Cd contamination; and a continued subsidy and cross-sectoral collaborations to abide managerial and financial responsibility for beachcast activity. In this in-depth and transdisciplinary case study with a mixed-methods approach, the findings point to a theoretical and practical incongruity In seeking a waste-to-resource conversion of beachcast, which indicates that beachcast cannot compete with commercially viable products in today's intensive agricultural regime. Instead, agroecology, an alternative pathway according to FAO, appears to be a more promising context for beachcast to be acknowledged and receive the necessary investment to resolve its ambiguous resource status.
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| 42. |
- Nathaniel, Hanna, et al.
(author)
-
Regional variations in the chemical composition of fresh and composted beachcast on the island of Gotland, Sweden – considering future treatments
-
Other publication (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Harvesting beachcast from coastal zones to use the biomass in agriculture or horticulture could mitigate eutrophication while contributing to resource substitution of fossil-based inputs in food production. As such, beachcast holds great resource potential in a bio-based circular economy, but its chemical properties prove challenging, and more research is required to develop treatment techniques that will allow the realisation of such a system. We compiled results from chemical analyses of fresh beachcast from a database within the marine policy scheme, LOVA, in Gotland, Sweden, to study local and seasonal variations in macronutrients, C:N ratio, and Cd content. This data complemented with analyses of fresh and composted beachcast (passive pile treatment), for which the contents of macronutrient, ammonium, nitrate, and Cd, were measured, calculating C:N ratios and maturity indices (NH4+-N/NO3—N). The results confirm that regional variations in the above-mentioned properties require investments in treatment techniques and strategies to make beachcast usable.
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| 43. |
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| 44. |
- Pandis Iveroth, Sofie, 1975-
(author)
-
Industrial ecology for sustainableurban development- the case of Hammarby Sjöstad
- 2014
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Today, more than half the world’s population lives in cities largely dependent on resources and ecosystem services from outside their physical boundaries. Correspondingly, urban resource needs and waste generation have serious worldwide ecological consequences, and urban areas have become a primary driver of environmental change. In response, various sustainable urban developments have been initiated worldwide. Quite a few of these rely on strategies giving urban areas the characteristics of ecosystems, i.e., fostering urban symbiosis by integrating infrastructural systems to optimise the environmental performance of the system as a whole.Whether or not the strategy of urban symbiosis actually contributes to sustainable urban development is, however, debated. It may support only short-term system optimisation, hindering the implementation of new technology crucial for the longterm environmental improvement of society, as that might require no symbiosis but substitution. Or it might actually support a complete transition to sustainable urban development.Consequently, this thesis explores the research question “How can urban symbiosis contribute to sustainable urban development?” using the implementation of urban symbiosis strategies in Hammarby Sjöstad, Stockholm, Sweden, as a single-case study. The choice of a single-case study approach was an attractive approach as the sustainable development strategy implemented in Hammarby Sjöstad was clear and consistent: the approach aimed at sustainable urban development by using innovative technical solutions such as urban symbiosis, and not by changing the behaviour of the inhabitants of the district. This fortuitous “natural experiment” was useful, as strategies for sustainable development are often difficult to evaluate since they are often not very clearly or consistently applied.Using results based on literature reviews, in-depth interviews, discussions with focus groups, and quantitative data, this thesis concludes that urban symbiosis strategies do not directly respond to path dependence, and that such strategies are as dependent on radical behavioural change as are transition management strategies. In addition, urban symbiosis strategies can optimise existing infrastructural systems and advance the planning of the sustainable urban district.
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| 45. |
- Pasichnyi, Oleksii, 1986-
(author)
-
Advancing urban analytics for energy transitions : Data-driven strategic planning for citywide building retrofitting
- 2020
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Decarbonisation of the building stock is essential for energy transitions towards climate-neutral cities in Sweden, Europe and globally. Meeting 1.5°C scenarios is only possible through collaborative efforts by all relevant stakeholders — building owners, housing associations, energy installation companies, city authorities, energy utilities and, ultimately, citizens. These stakeholders are driven by different interests and goals. Many win-win solutions are not implemented due to lack of information, transparency and trust about current building energy performance and available interventions, ranging from city-wide policies to single building energy service contracts. The emergence of big data in the building and energy sectors allows this challenge to be addressed through new types of analytical services based on enriched data, urban energy models, machine learning algorithms and interactive visualisations as important enablers for decision-makers on different levels.The overall aim of this thesis was to advance urban analytics in the building energy domain. Specific objectives were to: (1) develop and demonstrate an urban building energy modelling framework for strategic planning of large-scale building energy retrofitting; (2) investigate the interconnection between quality and applications of urban building energy data; and (3) explore how urban analytics can be integrated into decision-making for energy transitions in cities. Objectives 1 and 2 were pursued within a single case study based on continuous collaboration with local stakeholders in the city of Stockholm, Sweden. Objective 3 was addressed within a multiple case study on participatory modelling for strategic energy planning in two cities, Niš, Serbia, and Stockholm. A transdisciplinary research strategy was applied throughout.A new urban building energy modelling framework was developed and demonstrated for the case of Stockholm. This framework utilises high-resolution building energy data to identify buildings and retrofitting measures with the highest potential, assess the change in total energy demand from large-scale retrofitting and explore its impact on the supply side. Growing use of energy performance certificate (EPC) data and increasing requirements on data quality were identified in a systematic mapping of EPC applications combined with assessment of EPC data quality for Stockholm. Continuity of data collaborations and interactivity of new analytical tools were identified as important factors for better integration of urban analytics into decision-making on energy transitions in cities.
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| 46. |
- Pechsiri, Joseph
(author)
-
Nutrient Recovery as an Added Benefit to Harvests of Photosynthetic Marine Biomass : A Holistic Systems Perspective on Harvesting Marine Microalgae, Cyanobacteria, and Macroalgae
- 2019
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- As a result of increasing environmental burdens from anthropogenic activities andresource scarcity, interest for the development of solutions utilizing photosyntheticmarine biomass has also been increasing in both academia and industries. Medium tolarge scale production and harvest of photosynthetic marine biomass have beenpracticed to achieve numerous services, including improving tourism industries,production of biofuels, and production of food/feed. However, few studies haveevaluated the potential for nutrient recovery as an added benefit to the aforementionedservices and the potential environmental burdens of such solutions from a holisticsystems perspective. This thesis, therefore, sought to determine the nutrient recoverypotential of harvesting photosynthetic marine biomass at industrial scales whileassessing the environmental burdens from a holistic systems perspective. Techniquesinvolving life cycle inventory and analysis, input-output analysis, growth modellingand experimentation, energy analysis, and assessment of greenhouse gas emissionsfrom a life cycle perspective were used to assess the potential environmental burdensof large scale harvest of photosynthetic marine biomass.This study employed five real world case studies of five different photosynthetic marinebiomass species at various geographical locations across the globe. Each case wasassessed to determine the potential to recover nutrients while evaluating the potentialenvironmental burdens from an energy and greenhouse gas perspective. Each casecontains unique specific details and therefore methods applied were case specific.Results showed that nutrient recovery potential existed in most cases with the exceptionof one case. Cases evaluated for their potential environmental burdens showed thatlarge scale harvest of photosynthetic marine biomass is resource intensive regardless ofspecies but showed mixed results from an energy perspective. The key findings of thisthesis were that a) the potential for nutrient recovery was estimated in both large scalecultivation and large scale wild harvest of photosynthetic marine biomass, b) from anenergy and biomass harvesting perspective, the viability of industrial harvests ofphotosynthetic marine biomass were found for both large scale cultivations and wildharvesting of biomass blooms, and c) scale of operations is an important factor towardsevaluating the environmental performance of photosynthetic marine biomassproduction systems.
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| 47. |
- Pechsiri, Joseph Santhi, et al.
(author)
-
Assessing energy return on investment for harvest of wild Nodularia spumigena during blooms in the Baltic Sea
- 2021
-
In: Journal of Industrial Ecology. - : Wiley. - 1088-1980 .- 1530-9290.
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Recurring summer cyanobacteria blooms in the Baltic Sea has gained academic interests for decades. The harvest of wild cyanobacteria, for example, Nodularia spumigena, during summer blooms in the Baltic Sea has been studied in the past but lacked evaluation for environmental and economic performances. This study provides a first-hand assessment of environmental and economic performance from an energy perspective, using energy return on investment (EROI) as evaluation method where harvest of biomass and the downstream conversion of biomass to biogas and biofertilizer are considered for Gotland, Sweden. Energy analysis results indicate fuel consumption during harvest and transport operations to be the major energy consumer. Traditional sailing boats have been suggested as an alternative. Overall, when considering only biogas yield and usage of sailing boats, a break-even EROI of 1 is achieved. When including biofertilizer as product, a breakeven EROI of 1 is also achieved. Depending upon the biomass concentration in the Baltic Sea at the time of harvest, an EROI > 6 is possible, surpassing the economic viability EROI benchmark of 3, indicating the importance of nutrient recovery as the driver for harvest of wild cyanobacteria biomass during blooms in the Baltic Sea. This article met the requirements for a gold-gold JIE data openness badge described at http://jie.click/badges.
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| 48. |
- Pechsiri, Joseph Santhi, et al.
(author)
-
Comparative life cycle assessment of conventional and novel microalgae production systems and environmental impact mitigation in urban-industrial symbiosis
- 2023
-
In: Science of the Total Environment. - : Elsevier BV. - 0048-9697 .- 1879-1026. ; 854
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The versatility of microalgae biomass as candidates for various products and bioremediation needs motivates interests towards design and implementation of novel microalgae bioreactors. Conventional open-reactors are reliant on large quantities of sunlight and space while yields are constrained by outdoor environment conditions. Conversely, closed-reactor systems like bubble columns reduces these constrains on microalgae growth while occupying far less space at the expense of high energy demands, notably from lighting systems. A novel patented closed reactor design has recently been proposed that improves the bubble column concept with an efficient and effective lighting system. The present study uses Life Cycle Assessment approach to compare the environmental performance of conventional reactors and the proposed internally luminated novel closed reactor design, expressing impacts per kg biostimulant for the Scenedesmus almeriensis harvest from such units. All performance data was collected from a pilot facility in Almeria, Spain. Urban-industrial symbiosis scenarios are also portrayed in the study using wastewater and incinerator flue gas. Results show that under synthetic nutrient and carbon inputs in Spanish pilot operations, the cumulative energy demand for the novel photobioreactors is similar to conventional vertically-stacked horizon bioreactors but are substantially more demanding than conventional open reactors. However, when leveraging renewable energy sources and the photosynthesis process to consume wastestreams in urban-industrial symbiosis scenarios, the novel photobioreactor was able to achieve up to 80 % improvements in several impact categories e.g. eutrophication and climate change. Impact mitigation credits per kg dwt biomass across all energy scenarios in symbiosis amount to asymptotic to 1.8 kg CO(2)eq and asymptotic to 0.09 kg PO4 eq. This highlights that such closed and internally illuminated photobioreactors can be competitive with conventional reactors, and have potential to harness photosynthesis to reduce environmental burdens in an urban-industrial symbiosis setting. Possible economies of scale and the associated potential gains in efficiencies are further discussed.
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| 49. |
- Pechsiri, Joseph Santhi, et al.
(author)
-
Energy Analysis of the Nannochloropsis sp. Production as an Alternative Protein Source using the Holistic ep-EROI
-
Other publication (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Energy systems analysis and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of open pond microalgae cultivation systems is attracting considerable interest in the past decade due to their potentials for the production of biofuels and phytochemicals. However, there has been little discussion on energy systems analysis of microalgae produced from power plant flue gas and its use as an alternative protein source. This study aims to analyze edible protein energy return on investment (ep-EROI) and the overall GHG emissions for a medium-to-large scale Nannochloropsis oceanica cultivation system using power plant flue gas in northern China. Besides, additional benefits of the microalgae cultivation system were assessed on the overall nutrient recovery potential of the harvested biomass. Results of the study indicated that cumulative energy demand and GHG emissions for production of Nannochloropsis oceanica products were intermediate to other conventional protein sources in the literature, such as fish. Results of the EROI-based analysis showed that the Nannochloropsis oceanica cultivation system achieved a moderate ep-EROI of 0.11.
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| 50. |
- Pechsiri, Joseph Santhi, et al.
(author)
-
Energy performance and greenhouse gas emissions of kelp cultivation for biogas and fertilizer recovery in Sweden
- 2016
-
In: Science of the Total Environment. - : Elsevier. - 0048-9697 .- 1879-1026. ; 573, s. 347-355
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The cultivation of seaweed as a feedstock for third generation biofuels is gathering interest in Europe, however, many questions remain unanswered in practise, notably regarding scales of operation, energy returns on investment (EROI) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, all of which are crucial to determine commercial viability. This study performed an energy and GHG emissions analysis, using EROI and GHG savings potential respectively, as indicators of commercial viability for two systems: the Swedish Seafarm project's seaweed cultivation (0.5 ha), biogas and fertilizer biorefinery, and an estimation of the same system scaled up and adjusted to a cultivation of 10 ha. Based on a conservative estimate of biogas yield, neither the 0.5 ha case nor the up-scaled 10 ha estimates met the (commercial viability) target EROI of 3, nor the European Union Renewable Energy Directive GHG savings target of 60% for biofuels, however the potential for commercial viability was substantially improved by scaling up operations: GHG emissions and energy demand, per unit of biogas, was almost halved by scaling operations up by a factor of twenty, thereby approaching the EROI and GHG savings targets set, under beneficial biogas production conditions. Further analysis identified processes whose optimisations would have a large impact on energy use and emissions (such as anaerobic digestion) as well as others embodying potential for further economies of scale (such as harvesting), both of which would be of interest for future developments of kelp to biogas and fertilizer biorefineries.
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