ผลงานตีพิมพ์ทั้งหมด

A review on European sustainable practices in end-of-life vehicles management

Francesco Arpino, Idiano D’Adamo, Massimo Gastaldi, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Waste Management & Research The Journal for a Sustainable Circular Economy · 2024

The management of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) has become a significant environmental and economic challenge due to the substantial volumes of hazardous waste generated. This article analyses sustainable practices in ELV management across Europe, with a focus on contributions to the circular economy. The systematic literature review, conducted for articles published in the period 2016-2024, identifies five topics: (1) policy and regulatory frameworks evaluations and suggestions; (2) economic and environmental benefits through optimization modelling; (3) trends and performances analysis; (4) advanced treatment technologies and their impact and (5) economic and environmental impacts assessments. The findings highlight the importance of state-of-the-art recycling processes and coordinated stakeholder efforts in improving ELV management outcomes. In addition, the correlation between ELVs recycling and gross domestic product (GDP) was analysed. Data analysis for 27 European countries in the period 2016-2021 shows a moderate correlation. Specifically, countries with stronger economies tend to produce more ELVs, distinguishing two clusters when GDP is 35,000 € per capita. By adopting best practices and innovative approaches, European countries can enhance their ELV management systems, support a more circular economy and sustainable development. This work highlights the possible correlation between GDP per capita and ELV recycling rates across the European Union, the identification of economic clusters, and the critical role that advanced recycling technologies play in improving sustainability.

Life-cycle GHG emissions of standard houses in Thailand

Bergpob Viriyaroj, Matti Kuittinen, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Buildings and Cities · 2024

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from building activities are one of the most prominent contributors to the problem of global warming. Life-cycle assessment (LCA) is a widely used tool to investigate GHG emissions from buildings. However, there appears to be a lack of LCA studies on buildings in tropical climates, and especially in Thailand. This study aims to improve the understanding of GHG emissions from standard Thai residential buildings. LCA was conducted on five typical house designs in Thailand in order to determine potential mitigation strategies for future design of these houses. The amount of GHG emissions over the entire life-cycle of these detached houses was estimated, and the results were analysed with different viewpoints. The results indicate that emissions from the operational energies of detached houses in Thailand have the highest share of GHG emissions. Significant emissions also came from construction materials. Improvements to the building envelope and air-conditioner usage have high GHG mitigation potential in the operational stage of the buildings, while replacing cementitious and metallic materials with low-emissions alternatives can considerably reduce embodied emissions. Policy relevance The built environment has been a major source of GHG, but it also has high climate change-mitigation potential. This study explores mitigation strategies on the material and component levels of the most common building type in Thailand: detached houses. The results indicate the major sources of GHG emissions in the case study buildings, their correlation with building scale and other key design decisions. Potential mitigation solutions in different phases of the building life-cycle are identified.

Integrating the land–water–climate nexus approach with spatial-based sustainable agriculture production

Jutaporn Keson, Thapat Silalertruksa, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Agricultural Systems · 2024

The conceptual quantitative assessment framework for Nature-based Solutions (NbS)

Sumonrat Chairat, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Nature-Based Solutions · 2024

Nature-based solutions (NbS) are recognized as one of the approaches that can address a range of environmental issues, often with conservation and natural resource management missions. However, the promotion of NbS often lacks a robust understanding of their actual impacts and effectiveness. To support the evaluation and implementation of NbS, there is a need for a comprehensive quantitative assessment framework. The main objectives of the study are to (1) develop an assessment framework that can be used to quantify the performance of NbS interventions and to (2) provide a step-by-step guideline for evaluating NbS. The assessment framework proposed in this study was built upon existing frameworks used in previous studies, designed to address specific gaps. Several aspects and tools were integrated in response to the NbS standard criteria provided by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), as a result, this quantitative assessment framework can provide a comprehensive evidence based on environmental, social, and economic aspects. The study introduced one approach, viz., the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting - Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA EA), and three main assessment tools (i.e., Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA), and Cost-Benefit Assessment (CBA)) aimed at facilitating a comprehensive evaluation of NbS. The results provide a conceptual framework that offers a systematic approach for evaluating the performance of NbS, along with methods to address conflicting results among aspects and/or indicators. Ideas and approaches for assessing ecosystem services provided by NbS and primary concerns when conducting NbS assessments are also highlighted. In summary, the conceptual framework proposed in this study can be used to assess NbS performance and determine whether NbS interventions align with the NbS standard criteria provided by IUCN, utilizing the introduced assessment tools.

Towards calorie-adequate diets to mitigate environmental impacts from food consumption in Asia

Shwe Yie Lin, Hnin Nandar Khine, Aakriti Deuja, Romanee Thongdara, Nawatch Surinkul, Nicholas M. Holden, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Trakarn Prapaspongsa

Sustainable Production and Consumption · 2024

Application of Life Cycle Assessment For Evaluating Circular Product Systems

Ahsan Farooq, Sumonrat Chairat, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Circular Economy and Sustainability · 2024

Land-Water-GHG-Food Nexus performance and physical-socio-economic-policy factors influencing rice cultivation in Central Thailand

Jutaporn Keson, Thapat Silalertruksa, Shabbir H. Gheewala

The Science of The Total Environment · 2024

Spatially differentiated health impacts and costs of fine particulate matter exposure from agriculture waste management in Thailand

Aakriti Deuja, Peter Fantke, Sirima Panyametheekul, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Trakarn Prapaspongsa

Journal of Cleaner Production · 2024

Challenges and Opportunities of Bio-Circular-Green Economy for Agriculture

Ukrit Jaroenkietkajorn, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Rattanawan Mungkung, Napat Jakrawatana, Thapat Silalertruksa, Naruetep Lecksiwilai, Jittima Prasara-A, Pariyapat Nilsalab

Circular Economy and Sustainability · 2024

The role of global waste management and circular economy towards carbon neutrality

Phyo Zaw Oo, Trakarn Prapaspongsa, Vladimir Strezov, Nazmul Huda, Kazuyuki Oshita, Masaki Takaoka, Jun Ren, Anthony Halog, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Sustainable Production and Consumption · 2024

Solid waste management is a cross-cutting issue that significantly influences multiple aspects of sustainable development globally. The waste sector is a major anthropogenic source of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Most global GHG assessments of waste management rely on generic data due to limitations in available data. This research used reflective inventory data for municipal solid waste (MSW) treatment systems related to the income levels of countries, resulting in more context-specific and comprehensive assessments of GHG emissions. This study aims to assess life cycle GHG emissions from the global MSW management sector for the years 2023, 2030, and 2050 and then analyses the global and regional waste management goals set by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the European Union (EU) to identify hotspots in the MSW management systems and critical factors that influence GHG emissions from the waste sector. The study was conducted in accordance with the standards outlined in ISO 14067:2018. The results show that the average global GHG emissions from 1 tonne of MSW in 2023 based on the existing MSW management practices was approximately 89.7 kg CO 2e . The major contributor was the open dumping of MSW, contributing almost 70 % of GHG emissions. The global MSW management sector emitted a total of 173.2 Mt CO 2e GHG emissions in 2023. If no improvements are made to existing systems, GHG emissions from the waste sector are projected to increase to 203.4 Mt CO 2e by 2030, and to 289.5 Mt CO 2e by 2050. Achieving waste management goals can reduce GHG emissions by approximately 1 % to more than 160 %. The implementation of the circular economy in the waste sector has the potential to achieve net zero emissions from the global MSW management sector by 2030 and 2050. This study provides achievable MSW management targets for the world and highlights key factors to achieve carbon neutrality from the waste sector. Prioritising policies such as upgrading open dumps, standardising household-level waste separation procedures, minimising food waste, establishing national recycling targets, and promoting circular economy through a zero-waste approach could substantially reduce GHG emissions from the waste sector. These findings are important for the adoption of circular economy principles in MSW management systems to effectively support the pursuit of carbon neutrality goals.

Greenhouse Gas Emission Estimation Using Extended Input–Output Tables for Thailand’s Biomass Pellet Industry

Prangvalai Buasan, Boonrod Sajjakulnukit, Thongchart Bowonthumrongchai, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Energies · 2024

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from Thailand’s biomass pellet production were comprehensively assessed, with a specific focus on wood and corn pellets. Employing the extended input and output tables, the anticipated economic and environmental effects of the rising demand for biomass pellets within the Asia–Pacific Economic Cooperation region, which is projected to see an increase exceeding 33% by the year 2050, were investigated. The estimations of CO2, CH4, and N2O emissions, which were conducted utilizing an open Leontief model based on the 2015 National Input–Output Tables, covered each stage of the production process. The results show that emissions from the production of corn pellets are expected to rise steadily, from 52.91 MtCO2e in 2022 to 75.77 MtCO2e by 2030, whereas emissions from wood pellet production are set to increase more substantially, from 210.30 to 301.18 MtCO2e within the same timeframe. Data derived from surveys and interviews with corn farmers and wood pellet manufacturers informed the lifecycle data for the biomass pellet supply chain from cradle to gate. The findings suggest that Thailand’s power sector could benefit significantly from the biomass potential in the northern part of Thailand, which boasts an estimated energy content of corncob at 39 ktoe (0.0016 TJ). Market demand scenarios were explored in two forms: one where it was assumed that all biomass pellets are to be exported to Japan and South Korea, expecting a combined demand of approximately 560,262 tons by 2030, and another positing that 10% of production will be reserved for the domestic market, with a forecasted annual increase of 10% from 2020 to 2050. This paper highlights the need to prioritize low-emission renewable energy sources, expand technologies with lower lifecycle emissions, optimize the biomass supply chain to enhance efficiency, and introduce sustainable energy practices. The detailed GHG emissions analysis provides critical insights for policy formulation, underscoring the importance of sustainable transitions in the context of increasing biomass demand.

Does the electric vehicle promotion policy drive Thailand's passenger transport towards environmental sustainability?

Vitoon Chotanapund, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Vladimir Strezov, Nazmul Huda, Ekbordin Winijkul, Anthony Halog, Jitti Mungkalasiri, Trakarn Prapaspongsa

Sustainable Production and Consumption · 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) are considered an alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) for promoting sustainable transport, with environmental benefits depending on many local factors. This study performed a comprehensive life cycle assessment of passenger transport in major urban areas of Thailand, encompassing on-road, metro trains, and inland water transport, to determine the benefits of EV deployment. The findings showed that the vehicle life cycle (manufacture, maintenance, and disposal) was a significant contributor to human health and ecosystem quality impacts when comparing across transport life cycle phases in both ICEVs and EVs. Among private vehicles, with the current electricity mix, EVs had impacts on human health and ecosystem quality comparable to small-size ICEVs. At the projected 2037 electricity mix, the EVs will have lower impacts on human health, ecosystem quality and resource scarcity in comparison with the ICEVs. In scenario analysis, when considering only on-site emissions, it was found that private EV promotion had an environmental cost by about 16–43 % lower than the business-as-usual (BAU) scenario, depending on the rate of EV adoption, while shifting to public electric buses or metro trains had a lower environmental cost by 21 % and 23 % compared to BAU, respectively. If assessing the full transport life cycle, shifting to public electric buses or metro trains had a lower environmental cost (22–23 %) than the promotion of EVs with current electricity mix (14 %). The effectiveness of environmental impact mitigation through deployment of private EVs might increase to a comparable level with public electric bus or metro train shifts when Thailand achieves the electricity mix target with 34 % of renewable energy in 2037.

Life Cycle Assessment of CO2-Based and Conventional Methanol Production Pathways in Thailand

Adeel Rafiq, Ahsan Farooq, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Processes · 2024

Methanol production through carbon capture and utilization technologies offers promising alternatives to traditional natural-gas-based methods, potentially mitigating climate change impacts and improving resource efficiency. This study evaluates four methanol production pathways: CO2 hydrogenation, tri-reforming of methane, electrochemical CO2 reduction, and co-electrolysis of CO2 and water. The analysis covers 19 scenarios, combining three electricity mixes (100% Thai grid mix, 50% Thai grid mix and 50% renewable energy, and 100% renewable energy) with two hydrogen production technologies (alkaline water electrolysis and grey hydrogen). Environmental life cycle assessment results showed that most pathways perform well when using the 100% renewable energy with co-electrolysis (CE-100%) showing the most substantial reductions across all impact categories as compared conventional methanol production. Electrochemical reduction demonstrated the poorest environmental performance for all scenarios. In Thailand, implementing the CE-100% pathway could potentially yield 12.4 million tonnes of methanol annually from the cement industry’s CO2 emissions, with an estimated value of approximately USD 5.4 billion, while reducing emissions from the industrial processes and product use (IPPU) sector by 75%. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers, supporting Thailand’s transition towards sustainable methanol production and broader climate goals.

Economic feasibility assessment of waste to energy technologies for the development of a sustainable municipal solid waste management system in Thailand

Ahsan Farooq, Piyanon Haputta, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Renewable Energy · 2024

Environmental impact assessment of electricity production from municipal solid waste in Yangon, Myanmar

Hsu Wai Hnin, Sébastien Bonnet, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Environment Development and Sustainability · 2024

Cellulose nanocrystal filled synthetic rubber: Sustainable production, environmental assessment and end-of-life biodegradation by polyphagous pests

Sohail Yasin, Muhammad Hafeez, Munir Hussain, Awais Mahmood, Song Yihu, Qiang Zheng, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Xiaowei Li, Yang Li, Jianfeng Shi, Chaohua Gu

Sustainable materials and technologies · 2024

Life Cycle Assessment of Microalgae-Based Products for Carbon Dioxide Utilization in Thailand: Biofertilizer, Fish Feed, and Biodiesel

Adeel Rafiq, Cameron W. Morris, Abigail Schudel, Shabbir H. Gheewala

F1000Research · 2024

<ns3:p>Background Microalgae-based products offer a sustainable solution for food, fuel, and agricultural inputs, presenting environmental benefits and economic opportunities. A comprehensive assessment is needed to understand their potential in supporting sustainability goals, considering the complex interplay between production methods, energy sources, and environmental impacts. Methods This study evaluated the environmental impacts of three microalgae-derived products – biodiesel, fish feed, and biofertilizer – through a comprehensive life cycle assessment. Nine scenarios were explored comparing three electricity profiles (current Thai mix, 50% renewable/50% current mix hybrid, 100% renewable) across the three products. The assessment evaluated environmental impacts and potential economic benefits of transitioning to these microalgae-based alternatives. Results and discussion All products demonstrated potential for significant environmental benefits under increased renewable energy scenarios. Fish feed consistently exhibited the lowest environmental impacts across all categories examined, showing substantial improvements with increased renewable energy use. With an annual demand of 0.4 million tonnes, fish feed could generate USD 560 million in revenue and reduce CO2 emissions by 1.1 million tonnes. Fulfilling the projected biodiesel demand of 4,015 million liters per year through microalgae production could yield approximately USD 3.5 billion in revenue and reduce CO2 emissions by 30 million tonnes compared to conventional fossil-based diesel. Additionally, algal biofertilizer production could meet a 5 million tonnes annual demand, offering USD 2 billion in revenue while reducing CO2 emissions by 6 million tonnes yearly. Collectively, these products could offset 37 million tonnes of CO2, representing about 14% of Thailand’s total CO2 emissions, contributing significantly to the country’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target of 20-30% greenhouse gas emissions reduction. Conclusion Transitioning to microalgae-based products could transform the aquaculture, energy, and agricultural sectors, potentially supporting the national climate change mitigation goals, if implemented.</ns3:p>

Exploring the spectrum: an environmental examination of hydrogen's diverse colors

Hafsa Mehmood, Haseeb Akbar, Pariyapat Nilsalab, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Energy Advances · 2024

Hydrogen is emerging as an immense source of energy having the potential to at least partly replace fossil fuels.

Integrated management of surface water and groundwater for climate change adaptation using hydrological modeling

Chanchai Petpongpan, Chaiwat Ekkawatpanit, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Supattra Visessri, Phayom Saraphirom, Duangrudee Kositgittiwong, So Kazama

Environment Development and Sustainability · 2024

Enhancing sustainable development of the first ASEAN bio-hub using social life cycle assessment approach

Jittima Prasara-A, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy · 2024

Assessing life cycle impacts from toxic substance emissions in major crop production systems in Thailand

Phatchari Mankong, Peter Fantke, Agneta Ghose, Farshad Soheilifard, Susan Anyango Oginah, Tanapon Phenrat, Jitti Mungkalasiri, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Trakarn Prapaspongsa

Sustainable Production and Consumption · 2024

Ecological footprint of bio-based diesel under climate change conditions toward sustainable palm oil industry and alternative energy development in Thailand

Patchareeporn Intamano, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Charongpun Musikavong

Sustainable Production and Consumption · 2024

Thailand has set a maximum biodiesel production target of 11.0 million liters per day in 2037; biodiesels produced from fatty acid methyl ester from palm oil is blended with fossil diesel . The alternative biodiesels include bio‑hydrogenated diesel and partially hydrogenated fatty acid methyl ester which can have higher blending percentages with fossil diesel. The total land and water ecosystem requirements for providing resources and absorbing emissions including cropland, energy, the forest, and built-up land for biodiesel production were assessed by ecological footprint to support the sustainable development of the biodiesel production target while considering climate change . In the existing condition, with production at 4.28 million liters per day, the ecological footprints of fatty acid methyl ester, hydrogenated fatty acid methyl ester, and bio‑hydrogenated diesel were 5.46, 5.51, and 4.09 million global hectare/year, respectively. Water and cropland were the major sources accounting for 67 % and 14 %, respectively. For the production of 11.0 million liters per day under Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5, with maximization of fresh fruit bunches productivity and oil percentage, the ecological footprints of fatty acid methyl ester, hydrogenated fatty acid methyl ester, and bio‑hydrogenated diesel were 9.38, 9.89, and 7.29 million global hectare/year, respectively, whereas for business-as-usual fresh fruit bunch productivity and oil percentage, these values increased to 14.5, 15.0, and 11.3 million global hectare/year, respectively. When only fatty acid methyl ester is used, the plantation area must be increased by between 741,862 and 802,281 ha. Increase in yield of oil palm plantation, percentage palm oil, and promotion of bio‑hydrogenated diesel production should be implemented to decrease the amount of resources used for bio-based diesel production.

Environmental sustainability and cost performances of construction and demolition waste management scenarios: A case study of timber and concrete houses in Thailand

Kittipat Tanthanawiwat, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Pariyapat Nilsalab, Martin Schoch, Thapat Silalertruksa

Journal of Cleaner Production · 2024

Valuing resources in Thailand using the budget constraint method

Ahsan Farooq, Piyanon Haputta, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Sustainable Production and Consumption · 2024

Life cycle assessment of beverage packaging in Thailand: Implications from modeling choices and alternative improvement policies

Parncheewa Kositcharoenkul, Apathorn Prempreeda, Phyo Zaw Oo, Aakriti Deuja, Sujitra Vassanadumrongdee, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Trakarn Prapaspongsa

Resources Conservation and Recycling · 2024

Life Cycle Assessment of four important beverage packaging types in Thailand —aluminum cans, aseptic cartons, polyethylene terephthalate and glass bottles— applying a spatially differentiated life cycle impact assessment method is carried out to assess the environmental burdens and implications from modeling choices and alternative improvement policies. Packaging wastes are not recycled as high as the demand in Thailand; so the end-of-life recycling model is recommended for promoting recycling and mitigating packaging waste management issues. With the subsequent improvement in the recycling rates, increasing the usage of recycled materials becomes a crucial issue for the raw material acquisition and manufacturing phase, for which the recycled content model is recommended. Our findings recommend prioritizing policies for increasing both end-of-life recycling and recycled content to enhance the environmental sustainability of beverage packaging. Promotion of electrification in manufacturing is not recommended until the electricity is produced from renewable sources.

Integrated open Leontief model for analysis of biomass pellet demand in Thailand

Prangvalai Buasan, Boonrod Sajjakulnukit, Thongchart Bowonthumrongchai, Shabbir H. Gheewala

International Journal of Renewable Energy Development · 2024

This study addresses the critical challenge of sustainably meeting the growing demand for biomass pellets in Thailand, particularly in light of increasing global interest in renewable energy sources. By introducing an innovative approach through the integration of the Open Leontief Model, this research constructs Input-Output Tables (IOTs) specific to the biomass pellet sector, encompassing 180 economic sectors. The study evaluates the economic impacts of varying domestic and international demand scenarios on Thailand’s economy. Utilizing mass and energy balance methodologies, it provides a comprehensive analysis of the biomass pellet supply chain, from plantation to pelletization, for both corn and wood pellets. Findings reveal significant economic intersectoral linkages within Thailand's economy, indicating the biomass pellet sector's potential to substantially contribute to national renewable energy targets and reduce fossil fuel dependency. Notably, the sector is projected to require an increase in raw materials, energy, and other inputs by 3.8% in 2024 and 2.63% in 2036, following the trend of international biomass pellet demand. Additionally, employment in the sector is expected to increase by 3.8% annually under international demand scenarios and 4.6% annually under domestic and international demand scenarios. The research concludes with policy recommendations aimed at fostering sector growth, emphasizing the importance of government incentives, capacity building, and the establishment of biomass plantation communities to meet the increasing demand for biomass pellets. This study not only sheds light on the sector's current state but also charts a path forward for sustainable energy solutions in Thailand in line with Sustainable Development Goals 7, 8, and 9. Together, these initiatives aim to ensure a balanced transition toward renewable energy, benefiting both the economy and the environment.

Correction: Evaluating the Environmental Impacts at the End Point Level of the Biodiesel Production Process from Multiple Feedstocks in Indonesia Through Life Cycle Assessment Methodology

Yoyon Wahyono, Hadiyanto Hadiyanto, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Mochamad Arief Budihardjo, Joni Safaat Adiansyah, Widayat Widayat, Marcelinus Christwardana

Waste and Biomass Valorization · 2023

Absolute environmental sustainability assessment of rice in Pakistan using a planetary boundary-based approach

Awais Mahmood, Hafiz Usman Ghani, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Sustainable Production and Consumption · 2023

An inclusive approach for integrated systems: Incorporation of climate in the water-food-energy-land nexus index

Haseeb Akbar, Pariyapat Nilsalab, Thapat Silalertruksa, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Sustainable Production and Consumption · 2023

Ecological footprint, water scarcity footprint, and benefit to cost ratio analysis towards sustainable rice production in Thailand

Konkanok Jaibumrung, Pariyapat Nilsalab, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Charongpun Musikavong

Sustainable Production and Consumption · 2023

Land suitability class and implications to Land-Water-Food Nexus: A case of rice cultivation in Thailand

Jutaporn Keson, Thapat Silalertruksa, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Energy Nexus · 2023

Arable land and water resource scarcity for food production to fulfill the growing demand is a global challenge. Expansion of rice cultivation in Thailand without planning increases land and water depletion especially for the low-productivity rice cultivation areas. The Thai government has an agricultural zoning policy on promoting rice cultivation using land suitability classes for efficient use of land and costs; however, there is still some rice grown on land with low suitability. The study evaluated the land suitability class implications on major and second rice cultivation in view of the Land-Water-Food Nexus performance using Chainat, a key province of rice cultivation in Thailand, as the study area. The land and water intensity indicators were calculated using a normalized approach as the Land-Water-Food Nexus Index (LWFNI). The geographic information system (GIS) tool was used to analyze land-use classification, interpolate the rainfall, and overlay the land suitability classification with the Land-Water-Food Nexus of rice. Rice cultivation on highly suitable areas has a higher LWFNI score for resource efficiency and economic value. Scenarios were considered for changing rice cultivation in marginally and unsuitable areas to alternative crops to conserve water and reduce costs. The option for alternative crops to replace the base case with major rice and mungbean scenario was the most water-saving at about 3,601 m3/ha/year and made a profit increase of about 84,106 baht/ha. Additionally, the major rice and peanut scenario achieved the most profit increase of about 302,366 baht/ha and saved water at about 2,081 m3/ha/year.

Evaluating the absolute eco-efficiency of food products: A case study of rice in Pakistan

Hafiz Usman Ghani, Awais Mahmood, Matthias Finkbeiner, Martin Kaltschmitt, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Environmental Impact Assessment Review · 2023

Optimization of food-fuel-fibre in biorefinery based on environmental and economic assessment: The case of sugarcane utilization in Thailand

Patcharaporn Pongpat, Awais Mahmood, Hafiz Usman Ghani, Thapat Silalertruksa, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Sustainable Production and Consumption · 2023

Water-energy-food nexus of local bioeconomy hub and future climate change impact implication

Pitak Ngammuangtueng, Pariyapat Nilsalab, Yutthana Chomwong, Patipat Wongruang, Napat Jakrawatana, Suwin Sandhu, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Journal of Cleaner Production · 2023

Life cycle assessment for sustainability assessment of biofuels and bioproducts

Shabbir H. Gheewala

Biofuel Research Journal · 2023

Bio-based materials have been used traditionally for millennia. Their use was overtaken in recent times by the discovery and utilization of fossil-based resources for materials and energy. However, concerns about the non-renewability of fossil resources and greenhouse gas and other emissions associated with their use have brought forth a renewed interest in using bio-based materials in recent years. The environmental advantages of bio-based materials cannot be taken for granted without a rigorous scientific assessment. Many tools based on energy, economics, and environmental impacts have been used. Life cycle assessment is one such tool developed and successfully utilized for the environmental assessment of biofuels and bioproducts. However, many methodological challenges, among other things related to system boundaries, functional units, allocation, and carbon accounting, still need further research and consideration. In this work, the related issues are summarized, and the directions for addressing them are discussed. Despite the methodological challenges in their assessment, biofuels and bioproducts show promise in terms of their environmental advantages compared to their fossil-oriented counterparts. These advantages can be further enhanced by utilizing all parts of the feedstock biomass, especially for value-added materials and chemicals via biorefineries.

Health Impact Related to Ambient Particulate Matter Exposure as a Spatial Health Risk Map Case Study in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Kannika Jarernwong, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Sate Sampattagul

Atmosphere · 2023

Chiang Mai has been one of the most polluted cities globally, exceeding the PM2.5 quality standards for decades and facing hazardous air pollution on an annual basis. As ambient PM2.5 strongly affects human health, this study aims to investigate the hotspots of PM2.5 and health impact areas due to exposure to PM2.5 by illustrating a spatial distribution via a Chiang Mai health risk map. The association between PM2.5 concentration and human health impact were assessed using Pearson’s correlation, focused on the peak period from January to April 2021 in Chiang Mai. The primary data on PM2.5 concentration were collected using low-cost sensors. The health impact is based on the number of hospital admissions in all incidences of diseases due to PM2.5 exposure following the ICD-10. The results showed that the highest polluted and health-risk areas were located in the center of Chiang Mai, especially in the Mueang district. PM2.5 concentration was highly correlated with the incidence of dermatitis (R = 0.84), conjunctivitis (R = 0.81), stroke (R = 0.74), and lung cancer (R = 0.73). Thus, the increased PM2.5 concentration resulted in heightened hospital admissions. The results provide insightful information for policymakers and local public health organizations regarding priority areas in resource management.

Life cycle assessment for evaluating the energy balance of the multi-feedstock biodiesel production process in Indonesia

Yoyon Wahyono, Hadiyanto Hadiyanto, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Mochamad Arief Budihardjo, Joni Safaat Adiansyah, Widayat Widayat, Marcelinus Christwardana

International Journal of Ambient Energy · 2023

This study aims to compare the energy balance of the production of biodiesel from multiple feedstocks to the production of biodiesel from palm oil in Indonesia. The energy balance study indicates that the biodiesel multi-feedstock plant is feasible to operate. The renewability of biodiesel from multiple feedstocks is 3.31 and that of palm oil biodiesel is 6.23. It is due to the fact that the energy content and demand of multi-feedstock biodiesel are much lower than palm oil biodiesel. The energy content of biodiesel from multiple feedstocks (and its co-products) is less than that of biodiesel from palm oil (and its co-products), 109,041 MJ vs 130,370 MJ, respectively. The energy demands for the production of biodiesel from multiple feedstocks and biodiesel from palm oil are 35 × 103 MJ and 23 × 103 MJ, respectively. Energy demands, including fossil and biomass, are attributable to plantation operations, including the usage of fertilisers. Plantations of multiple crops use more energy than plantations of oil palm alone because they require more fertilisers. It is not suggested to produce multi-feedstock biodiesel from sunflower, canola, and soybean since its energy balance is not better than biodiesel from palm oil.

Evaluating the Environmental Impacts at the End Point Level of the Biodiesel Production Process from Multiple Feedstocks in Indonesia Through Life Cycle Assessment Methodology

Yoyon Wahyono, Hadiyanto Hadiyanto, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Mochamad Arief Budihardjo, Joni Safaat Adiansyah, Widayat Widayat, Marcelinus Christwardana

Waste and Biomass Valorization · 2023

The nutrition-environment nexus assessment of Thai Riceberry product for supporting environmental product declaration

Rattanawan Mungkung, Sarocha Dangsiri, Prajongwate Satmalee, Vipa Surojanametakul, Katreeya Saejew, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Environment Development and Sustainability · 2023

Abstract Riceberry rice has a special characteristic of being specially bred with high nutrients. High-value added products from riceberry are being promoted targeting health-conscious consumers. To provide supporting information for sustainable food systems, environmental footprinting was applied for evaluating the environmental performance of a ready-to-eat product of riceberry rice mixed with kidney red bean called “Riceberry + KU”, developed by Kasetsart University in Thailand. Based on sold unit as the unit of analysis, the carbon footprint of Riceberry + KU was 5.24 gCO 2 e per 300 g. Interestingly, white rice had the highest carbon footprint and riceberry rice as well as the riceberry product had at least 30% lower values. However, using nutrient-based scores, although white rice still had the highest carbon footprint, Riceberry + KU had 80% lower and the riceberry rice had 65% lower values. This resulted from the highest nutritional levels found in Riceberry + KU along with the lower greenhouse gas emissions from riceberry field during the cultivation stage. Similar trends were found in the other impact categories assessed by using life cycle assessment as well. To provide appropriate information to consumers for making more sustainable food choices, the environmental performance based on nutrient quality resulting from different farming systems and processing methods should be used to derive recommendations for moving toward sustainable food systems. The nutrition-environment nexus assessment could be very useful for supporting consumers toward making more sustainable food choices.

A Critical Review of Climate Change Impact at a Global Scale on Cereal Crop Production

Ahsan Farooq, Nageen Farooq, Haseeb Akbar, Zia Ul Hassan, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Agronomy · 2023

Food security can be under threat due to climate change, which has the potential to alter crop yield. Wheat, maize, and rice are major crops contributing to global food security. The impact of climate change on crop yield with different models and techniques has been projected; this article reviewed the worldwide impact of climate change on future wheat, rice, and maize production. Wheat and maize crop yields may increase due to climate change in colder regions and may decrease in the countries near the equator. The increase in carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere may help wheat and maize crops regarding increased carbon intake in colder regions. The rice crop yield may decrease in almost all major rice-producing countries due to water scarcity, which can be amplified due to climate change. The impact of climate change on crop yield prediction involves uncertainties due to different crop models, global circulation models, and bias correction techniques. It is recommended to use multiple climatic models and more than one bias correction technique for better climatic projections. Adaptation measures could help to reduce the adverse impacts of future climate on agriculture. Shifting the planting calendar, irrigation and nutrient management, improving crop varieties, and expanding the agricultural areas are suggested as the most effective adaptation actions in response to climate change. The findings of this study may help policymakers to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Life Cycle Toxicity Impact on Human and Ecosystem Health Caused by Pesticides and Related Chemicals in Major Crop Production Systems in Thailand

Phatchari Mankong, Peter Fantke, Tanapon Phenrat, Jitti Mungkalasiri, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Trakarn Prapaspongsa

Technical University of Denmark, DTU Orbit (Technical University of Denmark, DTU) · 2023

Land Suitability Class and Implications to Land-Water-Food Nexus: A Case of Rice Cultivation in Thailand

Jutaporn Keson, Thapat Silalertruksa, Shabbir H. Gheewala

SSRN Electronic Journal · 2023

Operational Efficiency and Environmental Impacts of Food Service Establishments in Phuket, Thailand

Hong Anh Thi Nguyen, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Kritana Prueksakorn, Supatsara Khunsri, Jutarat Thaweechot, Pornpimol Raksa

Sustainability · 2023

The expansion of global tourism development has led to an increase in environmental burdens. This study aimed to assess the operational performance and the environmental impacts associated with food service establishments in Phuket, an international tourist island in Thailand. A joint application of life cycle assessment and data envelopment analysis was employed to evaluate environmental burdens and calculate the efficiency scores encompassing several inputs and outputs of each food service establishment. There are several characteristics of food service establishments that affect their operational and environmental performance. The results showed that location, opening hours, and surrounding conditions are key factors driving the performance of air-conditioned food service establishments, while the performance of non-air-conditioned ones is mainly decided by opening hours. However, these factors are not significant for the performance of street food service establishments. It is advised to carefully consider the characteristics of the included food service establishments based on their products and services to enhance their performance. As an effort to achieve a balanced connection between environmental quality and economic growth, it is essential to evaluate both operational and environmental performance. Attaining maximum operational efficiency does not necessarily ensure the same for eco-efficiency.

The Effect of Climate Change on the Hydropower Potential in the Kunhar River Watershed, Pakistan

Haseeb Akbar, Pariyapat Nilsalab, Thapat Silalertruksa, Shabbir H. Gheewala

World · 2023

Climate change plays a vital role in the hydrology of any river basin, which may have multidimensional consequences. There is a need to conduct climate change impact assessment studies with updated models and scenarios. This study aimed to assess the impact of climate change on the streamflow and hydropower in Pakistan’s Kunhar River basin. Three general circulation models (GCMs), under two Shared Socioeconomic Pathway scenarios (SSPs 2–45 and 5–85), the Soil and Water Assessment Tool, and the flow duration curve were used to project the change in climatic parameters, streamflow, and hydropower potential, respectively. The findings indicated that in the 2080s, the precipitation, maximum, and minimum temperatures are projected to increase by 10%, 2.0 °C, and 3.0 °C under the SSP 2–45 scenario and are projected to increase by 8%, 3.7 °C, and 4.4 °C under the SSP 5–85 scenario, respectively. The annual streamflow may increase by 15 to 11%, and the seasonal fluctuations are more likely to be dominant compared with the annual fluctuations. The hydropower potential will probably increase by 24 to 16% under the SSP 2–45 and 5–85 scenarios in the 2080s. However, seasonal changes in streamflow and hydropower may impact the hydropower plant operation in the basin. The Kunhar River’s hydrology may change from snow-fed to a rainfall–runoff river.

Material recycling in a circular economy—A systems view

Shabbir H. Gheewala

Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews Energy and Environment · 2023

Abstract A circular economy is expected to reduce the use of primary resources through the reuse of products, components, and materials. Material recycling, though advantageous in many cases for saving primary resources by diverting them away from the landfill, may have perverse effects when analyzed from a systems perspective considering the entire material life cycle as well as economy‐wide effects of recycling. Using the case of metals, glass, and plastics recycling, the advantages of a systems view including the entire material life cycle in analyzing material recycling are illustrated. The advantages of recycling as compared to virgin production may vary significantly depending of the energy and resource requirements during the recycling process, logistics, and alloying of materials. Expanding the systems view further to analyze the economy‐wide effects of material recycling reveal the possibility of rebound effects which may reduce or even negate its advantages. Sustainable consumption is absolutely essential along with any technological advances to counter the rebound effects that may lead to overshoot. The article demonstrates the importance of considering a systems view incorporating a life cycle perspective and economy‐wide effects in analyzing and trying to maintain the advantages of material recycling. This article is categorized under: Climate and Environment &gt; Circular Economy Emerging Technologies &gt; Materials Climate and Environment &gt; Pollution Prevention

Author Correction: Association between ambient air particulate matter and human health impacts in northern Thailand

Titaporn Supasri, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Ronald Macatangay, Anurak Chakpor, Surat Sedpho

Scientific Reports · 2023

In the original version of this Article, Titaporn Supasri was omitted as a corresponding author. Correspondence and requests for materials should also be addressed to [email protected]

An Integrated Approach to Analyze the Progress of Developing Economies in Asia toward the Sustainable Development Goals

Awais Mahmood, Ahsan Farooq, Haseeb Akbar, Hafiz Usman Ghani, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Sustainability · 2023

This study endeavored to analyze the progress made to meet the Sustainable Development Goals in terms of resource use, sustainable production and consumption, and the triple planetary crisis (i.e., climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollutant emissions) at the national and regional levels in Asia. The study highlighted that the progress toward sustainable consumption and production is still not sufficient to meet the ambitious national targets. An urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address climate change, biodiversity loss, pollutant emissions, and resource use has been ascertained. China’s greenhouse gas emissions have surged tremendously. India is also endeavoring to decouple emissions from growth via renewable energy. Vulnerable Pakistan seeks emission reduction and financial aid. Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam outline emission reduction strategies. Land use change emerges as a key biodiversity loss driver, stressing the need for sustainable land policies and conservation. Material consumption highlights the call for production optimization, circular economies, and innovative technology. Energy’s role in development requires decoupling from growth through efficiency, renewables, and eco-friendly paths. Freshwater needs careful management for sustainability, and international collaboration and policy reform are urged for global water use efficiency. Decoupling trends between growth, resource use, and environmental impact show a complex pattern, with the feasibility of absolute decoupling limited by growth interdependence.

Towards more sustainable Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) projects in Magway Region, Myanmar

Cho Zin Win, Warit Jawjit, Romanee Thongdara, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Trakarn Prapaspongsa

Environment Development and Sustainability · 2023

Abstract Clean water and sanitation are essential for human development. Governments, international and national aid organizations have implemented water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) projects worldwide, notably in low- and middle-income countries. However, the majority of such projects experience failure. As a result, 2.4 billion people worldwide are deprived of improved WASH services. Research revealing how WASH projects can be sustained and which factors need to be considered is crucial. Despite the gap and its importance, existing studies on the sustainability assessment of WASH projects are limited. This study attempted to assess and compare the sustainability of WASH projects in Myanmar that used the Community Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) and Participatory Hygiene and Sanitation Transformation (PHAST) approaches with the “Sustainability Check” developed by The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). This research also evaluated the extent to which WASH projects contributed to the Myanmar National WASH Strategy. The study results show that both CLTS and PHAST project operations fully met the sustainability standards regarding accessibility and intra-village equity. Other sustainability indicators, such as water quality, use of sanitation facilities, and handwashing facilities, were at or above 85% and had already met the 2025 national targets. In contrast, handwashing practices have reached the 2030 national targets. The findings revealed that technical factors, institutional factors (at the community level), social, financial, and sanitation factors contributed to WASH project sustainability. The results also highlight the need for strengthening collaboration with local government to ensure that communities receive post-implementation support from local authorities, to encourage community participation and foster sense of ownership, to empower community-based bodies for O&amp;M and monitoring of water and sanitation facilities, to integrate appropriate behavioral change activities, and to align with the National WASH Strategy. This study would be beneficial for WASH practitioners to ensure the inclusion of factors that support sustainability in the execution of future WASH projects. Graphical abstract

Association between ambient air particulate matter and human health impacts in northern Thailand

Titaporn Supasri, Shabbir H. Gheewala, Ronald Macatangay, Anurak Chakpor, Surat Sedpho

Scientific Reports · 2023

Abstract Air pollution in Thailand is regarded as a serious health threat, especially in the northern region. High levels of particulate matter (PM 2.5 and PM 10 ) are strongly linked to severe health consequences and mortality. This study analyzed the relationship between exposure to ambient concentrations of PM 2.5 and PM 10 by using data from the Pollution Control Department of Thailand and the burden of disease due to an increase in the ambient particulate matter concentrations in northern Thailand. This study was conducted using the Life Cycle Assessment methodology considering the human health damage impact category in the ReCiPe 2016 method. The results revealed that the annual average years of life lived with disability from ambient PM 2.5 in northern Thailand is about 41,372 years, while from PM 10 it is about 59,064 years per 100,000 population. The number of deaths from lung cancer and cardiopulmonary diseases caused by PM 2.5 were approximately 0.04% and 0.06% of the population of northern Thailand, respectively. Deaths due to lung cancer and cardiopulmonary diseases caused by PM 10 , on the other hand, were approximately 0.06% and 0.08%, respectively. The findings expressed the actual severity of the impact of air pollution on human health. It can provide valuable insights for organizations in setting strategies to address air pollution. Organizations can build well-informed strategies and turn them into legal plans by exploiting the study’s findings. This ensures that their efforts to tackle air pollution are successful, in accordance with regulations, and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future guidelines on appropriate practices of air pollution act/policy linkage with climate change mitigation.

Life cycle assessment and circularity of polyethylene terephthalate bottles via closed and open loop recycling

Sumonrat Chairat, Shabbir H. Gheewala

Environmental Research · 2023