Read all confirmed presentation abstracts for the conference.
Please note that all abstracts are printed as submitted. Any errors, typographical or otherwise, are the authors’.
What is Green Real Estate Management? An Emerging Adult Perspective
Erin Hopkins, Virginia Tech, United StatesThere are many different definitions of sustainability and environmental sustainability. When examining this from the built environment context, the different definitions continue to cause confusion among stakeholders. As building operations represent the largest portion of the building lifecycle, a common definition regarding green real estate management can be beneficial. While research has looked at these varying definitions and the issues which arise because of these differences, it can be instructive to survey students as this cohort will be entering the workforce and will help to shape environmental sustainability from a property management perspective.
The research question of how undergraduate students define green real estate management will be answered through a content analysis of questionnaires from an undergraduate multifamily property management and operations course from Fall 2016 and Spring 2018 semesters. These two semesters were chosen to try and capture both millennials and post-millennial generations for a more comprehensive examination among younger generations. The themes discovered through this research will be compared and contrasted with existing definitions put forth by various reputable sources and recommendations put forward for a standard definition taking into account emerging adults.
Site Selections and Topographic Design for Preventing Risks From Mountain Floods in Light of Feng-shui
Ping Xu, University of Colorado, United StatesMountain floods involve debris flows, landslides, and overflows occurring throughout complex and steep terrains during intense rainfalls. The historical 2013 floods, which took place in the Colorado front range, caused extensive damages to many mountain properties. Repairing these flood damages have cost the government hundreds of millions on disaster recovery and reimbursements. These recovery efforts have involved reconstructing damaged homes on their original property, which risks subjecting residents to the same dangers if future debris flows occur. Meanwhile, other residents who experienced overflows have repaired their homes with government reimbursements, but have not addressed the drainage issues of their site conditions, as they do not recognize the threat of additional mountain floods during their lifetime. However, some locations received minimal to no impacts from the floods. This research explores safety methods pertinent to successfully residing in mountain areas in the following aspects: first, using principles of feng-shui – an ancient Chinese geomancy, as a clue to discuss landforms prone to mountain floods, and optimal areas to occupy; secondly, studying topographic design and providing precedents which withstand mountain areas and avoid flood risks; and finally, using case studies from the Colorado Front Range and Boulder mountainous areas to exemplify the significances of site selections and improvements of topographic design in preventing and protecting residents from possible floods. This research will provide recommendations on surviving mountain floods, from large-scale site selections to details of the topographic design. Criteria will be identified/evaluated for improving site selection processes in order to sustain mountain communities.
Conservation Practices and Their Impact on Hawaiian Well-being Among Youth
Camonia Graham-Tutt, University of Hawaii West Oahu, United StatesResearch with Kupu alumni included the examination of the relationship between land, culture, health and Native Hawaiian well-being. In this process, using qualitative measures (NVIVO) to analyze youth speeches and journals, we sought to measure the level of impact that Kupu had on youth in terms of health and wellness, however at the conclusion of our work we learned much more than initially planned. We learned three ways Kupu youth believed that their lives had been impacted as a result of their guided land practices and experiences. Kupu alumni expressed an increased sense of pride. As a result of their experiences, youth were positively impacted in the daily routines of their lives. They also noted positive changes in self such as improved self- confidence. Youth noted an increased sense of purpose. Kupu alum shared that their eyes were opened to the value of touching land in changing their mindset on education. They also shared an enhanced motivation to improve and change the current education system to include more land cultivation practices for younger children. Kupu alumni also responded that their experiences had given them an increased recognition of Identity and cultural heritage. Alums expressed an increased effect on their connection to others/family, their history and an increase appreciation for life and sharing their lives with others. In sum, we learned that listening to youth voices, both expressed in written and oral formats, is essential to sustaining knowledge of land, culture and health from generation to generation and for Hawaii's future.
Feeling the Burn: Native Cultural Revitalization, Fire Management and the Re-Greening of California
Kenneth Hansen, California State University, Fresno, United StatesDealing with catastrophic fires has become a way of life in California. But as time goes on and climate change continues to get worse, the fires have become much more lethal for people and ecosystems alike. This paper delves into the systemic causes of fire suppression policy in California and finds that almost two centuries of institutional discrimination against California Indian peoples--and policy disconnects between state and federal governments--are greatly responsible for contemporary catastrophic fires. The question is how to fix the current policy problems. I argue, based on participant-observation and discussions with tribal elders who maintain traditional culture, the solution is to return to Native California fire management practices, which for millennia had been much more sustainable and green than modern fire suppression policies imposed since statehood in 1850. For this to happen, there needs to be a re-acknowledgment of California Indian tribes and increased support for cultural revitalization efforts, especially controlled burning. Also, the inter-governmental dilemmas between state and federal bureaucracies, which oversee wild lands, needs to be addressed. Native tribal communities are in a unique position between states and the federal government in terms of sovereignty. Both state and federal governments need to recognize the important role played by Native peoples in managing ecosystems with traditional, culturally-relevant good stewardship.
Effects of Work–family Interface, Flexible Employment Modes and Work–life Balance on Family Satisfaction: A Moderated Mediation Model
Randy Chiu, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong KongLiving and working in a fast-pace international city, people in Hong Kong are said to experience low work-life balance and therefore low family satisfaction. In order to promote family-friendly employment policy, local academics and NGOs emphasize the importance of introducing flexible employment modes to the city; however, there is a lack of empirical study supporting this will work in Hong Kong. The present study examined the relationship between work–family interface and family satisfaction, by illustrating the mediating effect of work–family balance and the moderating effect of satisfaction with work schedule flexibility.
Based on a sample of 201 full time employees in Hong Kong, we found that work–family conflict negatively affected family satisfaction, while work–family enrichment was positively related to family satisfaction via work–family balance. Our moderated path analysis pointed out that there was stronger negative relationship between work–family conflicts and work–family balance when low satisfaction with work schedule flexibility existed. The result also indicated that high satisfaction with work schedule flexibility weakened the abovementioned negative relationship. Furthermore, this study found that the positive relationship between work–family enrichment and work–family balance could not be further empowered when high satisfaction with work schedule flexibility existed.
As shown by this study, flexible employments modes improved both work-family role balance and family satisfaction. The encouragement of flexible employment modes in Hong Kong should hence be urged, while non-governmental organization and the government need to take active roles in implementing relevant policies.
How to Support Immigrant Entrepreneurs to Succeed in a Foreign Culture? – A Multiple Case Study from a Norwegian Context
May Olaug Horverak, Birkenes kommune, NorwayWith increased globalisation and immigration, multiculturalism is the status quo for many western societies, and with this, challenges concerning integration and equality arise. In Norway, we generally have a low unemployment rate, 2,7% in 2018, but, the situation is somewhat different for one group; immigrants. For this group, the unemployment rate was 6,4% the same year. This shows that people with an immigrant background have challenges succeeding with getting a job, and as a result, many of them turn to entrepreneurship. This is the background for the current study which is part of a project called «Multicultural value creation» run in the southern region of Norway by the Agder-county in cooperation with the EVA-centre (a centre for giving guidance to entrepreneurs). The project is supported by the Norwegian Directorate of Integration and Diversity. When being an immigrant and starting as an entrepreneur, there may be many challenges that occur, for example difficulties with the language, understanding taxation rules and other regulations and understanding the potential customers. Of the many businesses that are registered in general, only a small percentage survives. To support immigrants in a tough market, we have carried out motivation courses for those who have recently started or are about to start a business. We will present qualitative data from these courses which aimed at building resilience in the process of starting and running a business, by identifying and discussing goals, success factors and hindrances, and deciding on focus and necessary action to succeed.
Effect of Carbonization Temperature and Reaction Time on Non-Recyclable PET Bottle for Char Formation
Chiaweefern Jennifer, University of Tokyo, JapanSawai Osamu, University of Tokyo, Japan
Nunoura Teppei, University of Tokyo, Japan
Japan has reported a high recycling rate of 84.5% for PET bottles in 2017. However, out of the total bottles collected, approximately 15 wt% consist of non-recyclable PET bottles. Here, non-recyclable PET bottles are referred to materials consisting of colored pigment, materials with impurities such as oil on surface and materials exposed to long-term UV-degradation. Due to the zero-recycling value of non-recyclable PET bottles, it is difficult to purify and recycle these materials. As a result, non-recyclable PET bottles are still being processed through thermal treatment. Thermal treatment of plastic materials is the least desired approach in waste management due to environmental and health concerns involving the emission of toxic PAH and greenhouse gases during the incineration of plastic wastes. Incentives should be taken to decrease the dependency on thermal treatment for non-recyclable PET bottles through improvement of processing routes of PET bottle recycling.
The aim of this research is to provide an alternative route to improve the material value of non-recyclable PET bottles for the enhancement of the PET bottle recycling cycle. In particular, we plan to treat the non-recyclable PET bottles into char through carbonization, followed by activation of the carbonized product into activated carbon. Current experiments were conducted using commercial PET bottles as model feedstock to give a better understanding on the factors in the carbonization of PET using a bench-scaled batch reactor to obtain high char yield. Studies include the effects of operating temperature and reaction time on char, wax and gas yield.
Application of Photovoltaic Power Generation in Agricultural Spaces of Japan: A Case Study
Ruth Anne Gonocruz, University of Tokyo, JapanTetsuya Doi, University of Tokyo, Japan
Yoshikuni Yoshida, University of Tokyo, Japan
Akira Tani, University of Shizuoka, Japan
Application of the photovoltaic system has recently been gaining attention in Japan due to current energy issues. The emerging dynamics of this system led to the investigation of its influence on agricultural spaces in the country. In our experiment, different factors such as temperature, solar radiation, and crop yield were directly observed and measured to evaluate the changes associated with placing PV panels above the crops.
Introduction of photovoltaic power generation is a potential renewable energy source in Japan hence the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries approved temporary diversion of agricultural land in 2013, making it possible to install solar panels in farmland - agriculture and solar power generation. The farming type photovoltaic power generation is achievable, although scientific pieces of evidence confirmed the influence of the panels on crop cultivation, given that light is limited due to the impediment of light absorbed. Therefore, this study will investigate on the influence of shading cast on the cultivation crops if there is a possibility to suppress deterioration of its growth, yield, and quality and by changing the amount of fertilizer and the panel distribution. This experiment would not only benefit the country but of those countries cultivating the same crops as Japan as they could utilize the use of their food and energy resources simultaneously without compromising its security.
The New Development of Arboriculture and Urban Forest and Its Relevance to Higher Education in Hong Kong
Allen Hao Zhang, Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, Hong KongHong Kong's greenery is much treasured by our community. Around 67% of the territory's total land area is covered by woodland, shrub land and grassland, most of which concentrates in rural areas, especially in country parks. The arboriculture and horticulture industry is young and evolving in Hong Kong. Building up its strength and capability is of utmost importance to ensure quality arboriculture service to keep our urban forest healthy and minimise tree failure risks, thereby protecting public safety. Thus, tree management (in particular tree risk assessment) is a professional task, and training is essential to ensure that we have adequate quality staff at different levels. In 2015, the Development Bureau (DEVB) commissioned a consultancy study to assess the manpower supply for the arboriculture, horticulture and landscape management and maintenance industry (greening industry). The study also covered the assessment of education and training for the greening industry and explored measures to tackle short-, medium- and long-term manpower demands. Another study in 2015, the Greening, Landscape and Tree Management Section commissioned a study on the Human Resources and Competences Survey and Analysis of the Arboriculture, Horticulture and Landscape Management and Maintenance Industry (the Study) to assess the training and supply of manpower against market demand. Based on these reports, it can be concluded that the arboriculture, Horticulture and Urban forestry industry is still facing a shortage of skilled and young qualified professionals, there is a demand for discipline specific manpower with first degree qualifications.
Evaluation of Tree Structure and Defects in Public Housing Estates: A Case Study in Urban Hong Kong
Allen Hao Zhang, Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, Hong KongSustainable urban forests require healthy trees with stable structures to provide satisfactory ecosystem services to urban areas. Trees in compact residential areas are particular prone to development of defects and unstable tree structures. We assessed in detail tree species, key structural and physiological defects, tree dimensions, growing habitat and planting site conditions of 38,156 trees in 102 sampled public housing estates (PHEs) in Hong Kong. The PHEs offered representative urban trees in representative growing conditions. PHE attributes including estate age, number of trees, species richness and tree diversity were assessed. The associations among estates, species, tree structure and defects were computed using various quantitative techniques in community ecology. The species-specific and holistic approaches were adopted in data analysis and interpretation. The results showed diverse planting of 203 species from 57 families, with most species beset by multiple defects. The health and structure of two dominant tree species, Acacia confusa and Ficus microcarpa, were respectively influenced by inadequacies and stresses in planting environments such as inclined surface of disturbed slopes and small pits and planters with poor soil quality. Several tree defects of twigs, branches and trunks were associated to tree dimensions especially on tree height and its inappropriate ratio to crown size and DBH. The findings have verified the importance of a species-specific approach in studying and managing urban trees to maximize their benefits to the society.
Empirical Analysis of Chinese Environmental Citizenship: Citizens’ Awareness of Environmental Issues and Environmental Protection Activities
Tomomi Hamada, Chubu University, JapanMakoto Shimizu, Chubu University, Japan
China has experienced rapid economic growth over the last thirty years. However, owing to such rapid growth, China is facing various environmental issues that need to be addressed. Numerous researchers believe that Chinese citizens’ cognizance regarding pollution can play an important role in protecting the environment by incorporating social changes, which is termed as “environmental citizenship.” The objective of this study is to investigate Chinese citizens’ awareness of environmental issues, pollution in cities, and environmental protection activities (EPAs), and thereby identify the determinant factor for an individual to participate in activities that protect or pollute the environment. Based on questionnaire-survey data, aspects such as civilians’ knowledge of environmental protection laws (EPLs), rules for sorting garbage-waste, awareness of the severity of China’s environmental issues, participation in EPAs, and prioritization of EPAs in daily life were analyzed. Mathematical distributions of the said aspects were statistically analyzed through factor analysis and regression analysis. Obtained results indicate that most Chinese citizens understand the severity of environmental issues and recognize the need for changing citizens’ activities and outlooks. However, few citizens adhere to EPLs. Furthermore, Chinese citizens do not prioritize EPAs in their daily lives, and regional inhabitants do not refrain from polluting the environment. However, Chinese citizens are shifting their focus from rapid national development to sustainable development. Hence, the obtained results demonstrate the implications for the education sector and national/local government to raise public awareness toward EPAs.
Quantifying Risk of Natural Disaster Using Typhoon Damage Cases in Commercial Buildings
Ji-Myong Kim, Mokpo National University, South KoreaDamages caused by natural disasters are increasing worldwide, and damages are increasing accordingly. Therefore, a number of international public organizations and global insurance companies are actively studying risk modeling models to predict and counter the risks of natural disasters. These organizations are working to increase the sophistication of the model, as it creates a strategy for risk transfer or preparation based on the risk quantification model as the risk of natural disasters increases. Nevertheless, many studies on natural disasters and economic losses have defined the main factors, but there is a lack of comprehensive study on the relationship between risk factors such as natural disaster indicators and building inventory using actual cases. This study examine the risk factors and amount of risk through statistical analysis of damage cases caused by natural disasters. Hence, the purpose of this study is to define the risk indicators and to define the relationship between the risk indicators using actual damage cases of Typhoon Maemi, a representative natural disaster cases in South Korea. Building inventory and natural disaster indicators were used for statistical analysis. The results and framework of this study reflect the vulnerability of the actual damage, vulnerability of the building to natural disasters as well as the vulnerability of the region, so that public agencies and insurance companies will have a practical way to develop natural hazard risk quantification models.
Performance Monitoring and Evaluation of an Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) in Extremely Cold Climate
Getu Hailu, University of Alaska Anchorage, United StatesThis project implemented a comprehensive monitoring system to evaluate the performance of an air source heat pump (ASHP) in heating mode under Anchorage, Alaska weather conditions. A data acquisition system was built to monitor and acquire data in fall/winter. The data was used to establish heating performance curve for the ASHP. The results were found to be useful in establishing the performance and thereby determining the applicability of ASHPs in regions of Alaska with relatively moderate climates. In addition, important data was obtained for further study of the coupling of ASHPs with Building Integrated Photovoltaic/Thermal (BIPV/T) systems and thermal energy storage technology, such as gravel bed and concrete slab.
The Impact of Air Pollution Levels on Bikesharing in Seoul, South Korea
Hyungkyoo Kim, Hongik University, South KoreaBikesharing is increasingly being favored in many cities in the world for its benefits on the urban environment and public health. Seoul’s public bikeshare program, the Seoul Bike, was first launched in October 2015 and has become widely spread around the city. As of 2018, it is supported by 20,000 bikes and 250 stations and attracts more than 27,000 riders daily. However, concerns are being raised as rising air pollution levels in Seoul, usually represented by PM10 and PM2.5, in the recent years may discourage citizens from using bikesharing and put them back in cars. This study investigates the impact of PM10 and PM2.5 levels on bikesharing in Seoul using daily air pollution and ridership data. Statistical analyses, which take into account control variables like season, weather, and calendar events, are adopted to empirically measure the impact. Findings present that air pollution levels have a significant impact on bikesharing in Seoul and call for new approaches in its future planning and policymaking.
PM10 and Subway, Bus, Taxi and Public Shared Bicycle Ridership in Seoul, Korea
Seungnam Kim, Chung-Ang University, South KoreaAir quality issues have received great attention from researchers, policy makers and citizens. In particular, many people have suffered from serious PM10 concentration in Seoul. In fact, higher level of PM10 affects the patterns of people `s outdoor activities, leading to changes in travel mode choice. Against this backdrop, this study aims to examine the impacts of PM10 on ridership of diverse transportation modes (Subway, Bus, Taxi and Public Shared Bicycle Ridership) in Seoul. To this end, we apply multiple regression using 9-term moving average ridership of each mode to control for fluctuations in ridership associated with the day of the week, the time of the year, and other non-weather-related trends over time. We also various data gathered from Air Quality Monitoring Stations and SmartCard big data system. The findings will give us future directions of transportation policies in Seoul.
An Analysis of the Possibility to Achieve the Specified Indonesian Renewable Energy Development Target
Hanan Nugroho, National Development Planning Agency, IndonesiaDedi Rustandi, National Development Planning Agency, Indonesia
Is it possible to achieve the specified Indonesian renewable energy development target?
An analysis of constraints and recommendations for accelerating the development of renewable energy in Indonesia
Indonesia has ratified a number of international agreements, for instance on Global Climate Change and Sustainable Development Goals, and has also announced its long-term National Energy Policy (through Presidential Decree No. 79/2014), and well as published its 3rd Mid-Term National Development Plan (2015-2019). All the policies/plans point to the necessity of developing renewable energy (RE) for the country having significant and diverse reserves of RE. However, at present the share of RE in the national energy mix is merely about 8 percent, or it seems to be very difficult for the country to achieve the target of 23 percent RE share in 2025 national energy mix, as set by the National Energy Policy.
This paper analyzes factors that hinder the achievement of the target of RE development in Indonesia, taking also into account the country’s policies on fossil fuels development, and clustered by regions. Based on the analyses and by making comparisons with other countries, this paper recommends things/strategies that must be developed, especially with regard to institution, regulation, and pricing/financing issues for Indonesia's energy transition to be able to deploy more RE projects and approaching the target set in the future.
Fostering Sustainability Through Renewable Energy Resource Development: The Law and Policy in Nigeria
Osahon Omoregie, Ambrose Alli University, NigeriaRenewable energy sources (RES) exploitation and utilization is the hallmark of sustainable development in any country around the globe. The need to decarbonize Nigeria's energy base through the utilization of RES to ensure sustainability cannot be overemphasized. In the last two decades, the Nigerian Government has shown keen interest in renewable energy resource development by evolving a plethora of policies which articulates certain visions, goals, objectives, targets, and strategies. This paper critically examines these policies with a view to ascertaining their efficacy. It was found that the policies are ineffective and inadequate. The paper further revealed that legislation is a pivotal tool to accompaniment and advance policies, but at present, the absence of a legislative framework poses a major challenge to RES exploitation and utilization in Nigeria. The author recommends the urgent need to enact a coherent and comprehensive legislative and regulatory framework to drive RES development and deployment in the country. A content analysis of a proposed legislative framework is succinctly outlined.
On the Tariff Modification for Remote Area Renewables Integration to the Power System
Roghieh Abdollahi, Clemson University, United StatesZoleikha Biron, University of Florida, United States
Ramtin Hadidi, Clemson University, United States
Growing interest in renewable energy sources and declining cost of solar photovoltaics and small-scale batteries in recent years are changing the traditional power grid especially in the residential sectors. Renewables are a promising solution for power system reliability especially in remote areas. A well-managed increasing level of renewables leads to a more reliable power grid in emergencies such as hurricanes and power transmission issues. It is shown in literature that current electricity tariffs in higher penetration levels of renewables causes multiple problems such as overvoltage and thermal issues in distribution systems. A significant portion of power energy is devoted to the residential and small commercial customers, therefore developing smart electricity tariffs especially in residential and commercial sectors to improve the power grid stability and load profile are inevitable.
In this paper, we consider a small microgrid to model a remote area as our case study model. In the first step we discuss the potential effect of the current electricity tariffs on power system frequency and load profile in the presence of renewables such as batteries and solar panels. Then a tariff modification approach based on current tariff and load profile is proposed to improve voltage and frequency profile of the system. It is shown that the new tariff also improves the peak to average ratio (PAR) of the system. Lower PAR means a lower investment requirement for peak time demand in power systems especially in the generation and transmission sector.
High Energy Usage, Low Income Households, and Disadvantaged Communities: The Case of Southern California Edison’s Care and Fera Program Customers
Melanie Edel, Southern California Edison, United StatesThis presentation examines the dynamics of “high energy usage,” i.e. usage of at least 400.5% of baseline allocation, in households residing within “Disadvantaged Communities” (DACs) specifically among Southern California Edison’s (SCE) low income customers enrolled in either CARE (California Alternate Rates for Energy) or FERA (Family Electric Rate Assistance) programs. The Clean Energy and Pollution Reduction Act of 2015 (or Senate Bill 350) mandates the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) “to help improve air quality and economic conditions” in DACs defined as communities “which most suffer from a combination of economic, health, and environmental burdens. These burdens include poverty, high unemployment, health conditions, asthma and heart disease, as well as air and water pollution, and hazardous wastes” (http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/discom/). In particular, this endeavor employs logistic regression to identify socioeconomic and demographic factors that significantly influence the propensity towards high usage among SCE’s low-income customers particularly taking into account how such behavior varies by household vulnerability as measured by residence in DACs. From an operations standpoint, the statistical findings sheds light into more responsive programs and policies that can better address the unique configuration of needs related to reducing the incidence of high usage among these customers, especially living in DACs. From a broader national perspective, this presentation highlights the importance of using a more holistic approach in profiling vulnerability among low-income customers, one that duly recognizes the vital role played by the environment and public health, among others, as these variables impinge upon the proclivity towards high energy consumption.
Narratives of Members in an Intentional, Self-Sufficient Community in Japan
Lilia Shahar Griffin, Kyoto University, JapanAn intentional community is usually a combination of people sharing the same social, spiritual or political visions that deliberately choose to live in the same locality in order to establish mutual life. The notion in the literature indicates that sharing the same beliefs facilitates sharing the same resources and responsibilities, as can be seen in the Kibbutzim, ecovillages, and some spiritual communes. It might be suggested that there are values that need to be revived, which are the values that attract members to an intentional community. In self-sufficient communities, this value is usually found to be environmentalism. However, no research has yet addressed the differences between the reason to join an intentional community and the reason to stay in it, or the possible shift of values. At the conference, I would like to present the findings of a study conducted over three months during late 2017 and early 2018 in a self-sufficient community in Japan. This will examine the narratives of the community members, focusing on the reasons they joined the community, their transformation while in the community, and the values the community helps them to achieve at present. Their narratives indicate that although the reasons to join were mainly related to environmental concern, the reasons to stay are different. The reasons to stay in the community are no longer related directly to its sustainable practices, but to the members’ perception of its spiritual meaningfulness. The environmental and social conclusions that derive from these narratives will be presented.
A Legacy of Hate: The Flourishment of Antisemitism in Current Times
Patricia Levy, Fort Hays State University, United StatesContemporary antisemitism through increasing incidents of violent acts and verbal slander constitutes what has become part of a normative phenomenon of intolerance expressed within the American social, economic, and political arenas. This presentation will focus on an in-depth analysis of the psychology of prejudice, discrimination by way of the means used to produce fear and division while ensuring the continuation of hatred and scapegoating stereotypes from the past into the present-day lives of Jewish Americans. Noted psychological theories will be discussed as applied to issues related to the sanctioning of antisemitic aggression, perceived threat, ethnocentric racial and religious identity socialization, and the perpetuation of social disenfranchisement. Research findings exploring strategies of strengthened societal resiliency related to the defusing of attitudinal antisemitic prejudice and the cessation of violent discriminatory attacks will also be examined.
A Tale of Two Planets: The Uninhabitable Earth vs The Regenerative Earth
James Stone, Mt. San Antonio College, United StatesMy paper will involve a critical analysis of the messaging of two recent books on climate change, "The Uninhabitable Earth" by David Wallace Wells and "Drawdown" which had several contributors, but was edited by Paul Hawken. The reason for the focus on these two books is that they were both on the New York Times Best Seller List and each book played a pivotal role in reshaping the prevalent narrative about climate change in the United States. Most notably, "Drawdown" was an inspiration for the 2019 documentary film "Ice on Fire" directed by Leila Conners and narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio. Based on my analysis of the contrasting narratives about climate change found in each book I will turn to an analysis of public opinion polling data in an effort to assess which message or which combination of messages is most likely to be most effective in influencing public opinion regarding climate change and policies to address it as the United States heads into the 2020 election.
Vernacular Architecture as Embodiment of the Melting Pot Culture in Labuan Bajo
Athina Ardhyanto, The University of Kitakyushu, JapanBart Dewancker, The University of Kitakyushu, Japan
The booming touristic town of Labuan Bajo in Indonesia was formerly a small trading port for Bajau, Bima and Bugis people of neighboring islands and Manggarai people of the mountainous areas of mainland Flores. Some of them then reside in Labuan Bajo, creating a melting pot of many cultural and religious backgrounds in the fishing village. The existing pluralism nature has now allowed the village to transition easily into a developing touristic town. The national government has even shed light on how they intend to further the developments to create an international premium tourist destination. With all these investments and excitement, the buildings and landowners on the main street near the main port have adjusted their assets to new functions. Some have adjusted by doing small changes and renovations, some have created entirely new buildings. Some tried to remember their cultural roots, some accustomed to the tourism business, and some are just functional. The research will analyze the buildings based on their exterior appearances and correlate them to the design logic. The interweaving of various shapes and styles of the vernacular architecture is still a reflection and embodiment of Labuan Bajo’s original cultural value, warm and welcoming to everybody regardless of their differing cultural backgrounds, to fuse various logics to continue trading goods harmoniously. The study aims to be a reference for further study on the changing cultural value in architecture in the future.
Improved Representative UV Index Forecasting in Qatar Through Incorporation of Aerosol (Dust and Ozone) Dispersion Models and Ground-based Measurements
Dillan Raymond Roshan, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, QatarChristos Fountoukis, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar
Muammar Koc, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar
Rima Isaifan, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar
The accurate monitoring, modeling, and forecasting of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is vital to regulate its exposure to humans. While healthy doses of UV radiation is required for vitamin D synthesis, excessive exposure leads to several harmful health impacts on the skin, eyes, and the immune system. One parameter to gauge UV radiation is the UV Index. However, a key limitation with UV index forecasting today is the limited accuracy in modeling the impact of atmospheric mineral dust concentrations on UV radiation, making UV Index measurements in the earth’s high UV radiation-receiving and dust-belt regions such as Qatar, non-representative. With climate change and increased forecasts of drying and dust generation around the region, the need to accurately account for its effect in UV index forecasting to reduce the radiation’s negative health impact on its population is indispensable. In this research, a three-dimensional air quality model that combines a well-established numerical weather prediction model with a state-of-the-art pollution (dust) dispersion model, will be used to accurately simulate and forecast UV index in Qatar and the greater area at high resolution. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study considering an advanced dust representation in the calculation of UV index. Additionally, the data are validated with modeling simulations with (i) ground-based UV radiation measurements from outdoor test facility in Education City, Qatar, and (ii) NASA’s satellite data of daily global gridded Aura-OMI Spectral Surface UVB Irradiance and Erythermal (skin-damaging UV radiation) Dose product (OMUVBd).
A Decision-Making Framework for the Investment of a Roof-Type Solar PV Project Using a Scenario-Based Feasibility Analysis
Kyeongseok Kim, Wonkwang University, South KoreaHyeji Na, Wonkwang University, South Korea
Solar photovoltaics (PV) have the advantage that they can be installed anywhere, including water, land and roof, unlike hydropower and wind power. In 2015, solar PV has 227 GW capacity in the world. South Korea is the one of the top 10 solar PV generation countries in the world. The Korean government implements various policies and incentives for the production and supply of renewable energy including the Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS). This study proposes decision-making framework for the investment of a roof-type solar PV project using a scenario-based feasibility analysis. The case study is for a roof-type solar PV generation project of the steel mill in Dangjin-si, South Korea. This roof-type solar PV project operates 3MW facilities for 12 years and generates revenue from electricity sales and Renewable Energy Certification (REC) sales from Korea Electric Power Exchange. The feasibility analysis of solar PV generation project considers the generation time, electricity selling price, REC sales price, and project cost. However, each factor has its own volatility in the Korean electricity market. A scenario-based feasibility analysis reflects various and volatile conditions related to the electricity market in South Korea. If the project has more than 3.4 hours of solar PV generation time, more than 229.5 won/kwh REC unit price, and less than 6.7% annual interest rate loan rate, the solar PV project of the case study is feasible.
Prospects for Nuclear Energy Policy in Australia
Craig Mark, Kyoritsu Women's University, JapanDuring the May 2019 national election campaign, Prime Minister Scott Morrison denied his Liberal-National Party (LNP) government had any intention to pursue nuclear power for Australia. An official ban on nuclear power remains in place, but following the election, a parliamentary inquiry into nuclear energy was announced, to be delivered by the end of 2019. This announcement restarted a long-running debate on nuclear policy in Australia. Under the Liberal-Country Party government in the 1950s, Australia hosted the UK’s atomic weapons testing, and considered developing Australia’s own nuclear weapons arsenal. However, after the election of a Labor Party government in 1972, Australia signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), and has relied on the extended deterrence protection of its US ally ever since. Australia has nevertheless been a major exporter of uranium, and has maintained a small research reactor. In 2006, the LNP government of John Howard commissioned a report into nuclear power, which found it was uneconomic, given Australia’s preponderance of coal-fired energy. A Royal Commission held by the South Australian state government in 2016 found nuclear power would still be uneconomic, compared to renewable energy sources. Nuclear power advocates argue that small modular reactors (SMRs) could deliver baseload energy for Australia, while reducing carbon emissions. The opposition Labor Party remains opposed to nuclear power though, particularly over where to site power plants, and disposal of nuclear waste. Any future Australian nuclear power industry is therefore a very long-term prospect, as renewable energy becomes more widespread, efficient, and affordable.
Resilient Control in Microgrids Using Renewable Energy Sources
Zoleikha Biron, University of Florida, United StatesRoghieh Abdollahi, Clemson University, United States
Disasters are unfortunate events involving many countries like US, Japan, and Indonesia. Providing the minimum standards for living during and after disasters, is a major factor in risk managements of these occasions. The minimum requirements such as power electricity can prevent so many losses. In this paper, we focus on power grids as one of the fundamental infrastructures to be saved during the disasters such as hurricanes. We provide a novel approach to enhance the resiliency of microgrids in islanding mode toward uncertainties and load deviations in emergency situations. The resilient control strategy of the microgrids focuses on the quality of the delivered power electricity to the customer during the disaster and also increases the availability of the stored renewable energy for the customers. In this study, we consider a microgrid case study with integrated solar photovoltaic panels as the renewable energy source to the system. Unlike the majority of the existing papers on renewables, we do not focus on the profit for power grid system or the customer. The objective of our proposed control strategy is to control the charging/discharging profiles of the existing batteries to increase the quality and the duration of power electricity for all customers served by the microgrid no matter if they have battery or not. In the emergency islanding mode, we intend to use historical data of customers to predict their required power energy and then control batteries and solar energy in the power system to provide the required energy with high possible quality.
Positive + Evidence
Mark Taylor, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, United StatesThis presentation charts the opportunities and frustrations of working with a non-for-profit organization as they work to acquire a derelict building that used to house the evidence of crime and transform it into a hub for urban agriculture and employment opportunities. From a series of small-scale design build projects that included the creation of compost bins, and the conversion of a school bus so fresh produce could be sold locally students increasingly got to know the needs of the non-profit organization to a point where they could conduct a needs and program analysis for future growth. An obvious need that was identified was the non-profit would require approximately $120,000 if they were to renovate the derelict building and establish a facility to prepare produce for sale. To assist with this fund-raising effort students prepared material in video format to communicate the needs the organization had to potential supporters. In addition, the organization’s website was revamped, merchandise materials created, including a recipe book that could be sold to generate revenue for the renovation project. A transition of leadership occurred in the summer of 2019 and an intentions has been expressed to proceed with the renovation of the former evidence building and provide daily employment on a $10 an hour basis for homeless members of the community that have little opportunity to work their way out of poverty.
A Design Expert System to Meet Both Economics and Energy Performance of Small and Mid-sized Buildings
Sean Hay Kim, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, South KoreaSeung Yeoun Choi, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, South Korea
Gayoung Kang, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, South Korea
Young Jo In, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, South Korea
Moon Ki Park, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, South Korea
Yena Chae, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, South Korea
While large sized and public buildings have pursued High Performance Buildings (HPB) domestically, architects have been given a tough task to design high performance, but small and mid-sized buildings, because owners tend to give up HPBs if the expected initial cost exceeds their budget. More than often design and construction expense of small and mid-sized HPB increase due to the conventional design practice that a set of building energy saving measures are uniformly applied without evaluating whether the selected measures are both affordable and performing, and thus whether they are really needed. Although performance simulation is a good design decision making tool that evaluates the performance of the selected measure, it is not that affordable for small and mid-sized buildings due to expensive modeling and analysis cost of simulations. This study presents a design expert system that would provide clear design paths backed up by quantitative performance evaluations and economic feasibility analysis of the energy saving measures for small and mid-sized buildings. The expert system has been developed by benchmarking actual design decision makings over domestic design practice. Eventually the system would alleviate architects’ load to process simulations at every decision making event during early design phase of HPBs.
Enhancing Sustainability Awareness and Practice Using Bluetooth Beacons to Provide Location Specific Information to Learners
David Jennings, Southern Illinois University, United StatesMeredith Wilson, Scottsdale Community College, United States
Studies linking sustainability, education, and technology frequently focus on how e-learning can reduce costs associated with transportation, facilities, and production of physical materials compared to face-to-face approaches to delivering information. A hybrid approach, where digital information and resources are directly tied to physical locations (“phygital”), potentially provides similar advantages to e-learning, but also expand sthe physical spaces that can be used to disseminate information. One of the primary technologies that can provide these links are Bluetooth Low-Energy beacons. These beacons emit signals that are picked up by mobile devices that then direct the user to site-specific information. One of the more common educational uses of this technology is in museum settings where beacons enable visitors to access resources directly related to the installation they’re examining. The current work deployed beacons at sites on the campus of Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville that are related to sustainability practices or issues (recycling locations, green roofs, LEED building features, honeybee hives, artwork). While still in the initial developmental stages, beacons have already been incorporated into several class activities, and are targeted for inclusion in campus tours for students, parents, and the general public. The frequency of beacons access is recorded by each individual beacon and will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of specific locations in stimulating interest in sustainability.
Can Chocolate Be the Key to Sustainable Agricultural Development?
Jeana Cadby, University of Tokyo, JapanTetsutya Araki, University of Tokyo, Japan
Cacao is produced predominantly in smallholder farming systems in equatorial regions around the world, with many farmers living below the poverty line. The craft chocolate and specialty cacao industries make up a very small share of the total chocolate and cacao markets, and often seeking high-quality cacao beans through direct trade strategies, which can prioritize farmer welfare. These markets may provide cacao farmers with considerably more sustainable resources than the traditional cacao marketplace in addition to increased opportunities for environmental conservation. Direct trade prices offered by specialty cacao buyers were found to be on average 251.63% more than world trade commodity cacao farm gate prices, and 169% more than fair trade farm gate prices (not inclusive of fair trade premiums). Specialty cacao production also encourages understory cropping agroforestry systems and the conservation of genetic diversity. Specialty cacao and craft chocolate can demand higher price premiums in addition to opportunities for environmental conservation when compared to commodity cacao, potentially contributing to improvement of farmer livelihoods and sustainable development in cacao production regions.
Application of Google Street View Application for Footpaths’ Inspection in Nakhonratchasima City Municipality, Thailand
Pornthip Ueathammataworn, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, ThailandYaowaret Jantakat, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Thailand
Walking is one way to increase physical activity regardless of whether the purpose of walking is for transportation or leisure. Therefore, this paper aims to inspect urban footpaths in term of infrastructures and facilities based on data of Footpath Standard Inspection (FSI) from the Ministry of Transport (MOT). This study selected 5 routes of Nakhonratchasima City Municipality (NCM) that were reported as a quality footpath along public transport routes from The Study of Traffic Management and Public Transport Development Master Plan in Nakhon Ratchasima Urban Area, Thailand. Moreover, Google Street View (GSV) was used for footpaths’ investigation in NCM. GSV was implemented to help with prior inspecting process by allowing prospective researches to take a virtual tour before visiting.
The results showed that all inspected 5 routes above-based GSV still was lacked curb ramp and obstacles arrangement. These results are consistent with the currently true ground. Moreover, footways are now not provided facilities for disables such as protective rails and braille block. Consequently, the results of footpaths’ inspection in NCM will be able to take action for planning and improving footpaths in NCM toward health and wellbeing further.
Hydrogen the Future Fuel? A Review of the Technical Challenges in Replacing Natural Gas With Hydrogen for Heating
Abhishek Asthana, Sheffield Hallam University, United KingdomMukesh Goel, Sheffield Hallam University, United Kingdom
Hydrogen is being seen as a key fuel for reducing our carbon emissions and goverments are seriously considering repurposing existinggas networks to pure hydrogen so that it can be used by industry, in homes and businesses, and in the energy sector. However, unlike other energy vectors such as electricity, hydrocarbon gases and district heating, high-purity hydrogen has not been deployed at large scales anywhere in the world. This puts hydrogen at a distinct disadvantage. Any attempt to replace natural gas with hydrogen will require a compelling case to compensate for this lack of experience. This article explores the importance of natural gas to our energy systems and the benefits of hydrogen, which could significantly decarbonise our heating and reduce over-dependency on natural gas. These include: (i) Hydrogen can use much of the existing gas infrastructure, (ii) Hydrogen is a very versatile fuel which can be used by households, industry and businesses (iii) Hydrogen can be produced in large volumes (iv) Hydrogen compares well with other low-carbon heat technologies. This paper considers 15 key questions which need to be addressed before attempting any large-scale deployment of hydrogen to retrofit homes and businesses.
Bat and Primate Richness in Response to Conservation Strategy and Forest Structure Across Costa Rica
Patrick Kelleher, St. Edwards University, United StatesEric Johnson, St. Edwards University, United States
Amy Concilio, St. Edwards University, United States
Michael Wasserman, Indiana University, United States
Human disturbance has fragmented tropical landscapes all over the world deceasing biodiversity and sustainable growth. Costa Rica has been a leader in the response of restoration practices and policies aimed to counter this disturbance. The main conservation strategies in place are National Parks, eco-lodges, research stations and incentive programs or payments for ecosystem services (PES) but it is uncertain how these strategies affect restoration, forest structure and species distribution and density. Comparing the influence that different policies and conservation strategies have on forest structure and species composition, especially indicator species, will inform planners and researchers on best practices and restoration strategies. This study measured primate and bat species presence and density, and forest structure composition (e.g. canopy cover, tree height, average seedlings/m2, saplings/m2, total DBH, or average DBH). The life stages of trees were documented in nested plots in 20 forest fragments in 4 regions of Costa Rica. The conservation strategy was identified for each site as national park (NP), ecotourism (ET), research station (RS), participating in the Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES), and other (O) was used if no conservation strategy was being used. Primate richness used to understand how these strategies are influencing primate’s success. Bats are also important seed dispersers and pollinators, using two passive acoustic recorders it was possible to determine species richness and assemblage.
Environmental Protection and Military Exemptions – a Sustainable Framework
Kurt Smith, Sam Houston State University, United StatesWhile much of the public and the environmental community remain aware of the Paris Peace Accords, a large segment of international polluting stays largely out of public scrutiny and view. The United States military is a powerful and important actor on the world stage in terms of global and international politics and policy. The United States Department of Defense spends more than six-hundred billion dollars on defense, making its expenditure greater than the combined defense spending of China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, India, France, United Kingdom, Japan and Germany combined. Only twenty-four countries in the world would have a higher GDP then the US military spends (Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, April 2017). With the expenditure of that money on gasoline, vehicles, weapons containing hazardous waste, housing hundreds of thousands of personnel, building of infrastructure to support operations etc., comes a major source of anthropogenic pollution to the environment. Coupled with this impact have come a number of exemptions from environmental laws and regulations. The Pentagon has continued to pursue an agenda of expanding these exemptions, with little or no empirical data to suggest environmental regulations have had any impact on military readiness. Understanding the legitimate needs of the military, and the risks to the environment past, present and future is a consideration of this paper/presentation, as well as recommendations for further study on how to assist the United Sates in the role of being a good global citizen.
Power System Reliability and Resilience: A Comparative Analysis of Challenges and Opportunities
Rajesh Karki, University of Saskatchewan, CanadaSafal Bhattarai, University of Saskatchewan, Canada
Prasanna Piya, University of Saskatchewan, Canada
Power system reliability is a well defined subject of study in engineering practice with established quantitative metrics, regulatory standards, compliance incentives and jurisdiction of responsibilities. The effects of high-impact low-probability (HILP) events such as hurricanes, floods, ice storms, earthquakes, geomagnetic disturbances, cyber-physical attacks, etc. are not generally considered in routine reliability evaluation. Growing concerns over severe power outages due to HILP events have motivated power utilities, policymakers, and regulators to consider resilience in system operation and planning. In contrast to reliability study, power system resilience is a relatively new area of study lacking widely accepted standards, assessment methods or metrics. This work explores and reviews models, methodologies, and metrics proposed in available literature for power system resilience assessment. A large portion of the literature present resilience models and metrics similar to that used in the reliability studies, which often creates delusion for researchers and engineers. There is a need to distinguish the models and metrics used in reliability versus resiliency assessments and narrow down the overlap. This paper provides a comparative analysis of reliability and resilience models and metrics in order to clarify the similarities and distinctions between them. The paper also presents discussions on the importance of applying resilience studies at different levels and jurisdictions of a power system.
Healing Village: Implementing Biomimicry, Natural Architecture to Promote Sustainability in Healthcare
Rana Bazaid, Texas Tech University, United StatesHamed Yekita, Texas Tech University, United States
Amani Khan, Texas Tech University, United States
Debajyoti Pati, Texas Tech University, United States
Sustainability in healthcare is essential to have many beneficial outcomes. Healing Village is a healthcare project in Tehran, Iran which was designed for all people living in the surrounding community as well as patients. This project aims to spread long-term health and well-being among neighbors and takes advantage of the surrounding resources from biomimicry and natural architecture for sustainable solutions.
In this redesign process, we present a new healthcare center completely adaptive with its surrounding environment. This center will produce, consume, and recycle based on its resources and needs. Analyses of the surrounding neighborhoods and the climate reveal challenging issues like air pollution, as well as other characteristics such as limitations, weaknesses, and strengths. The function of the hospital in the Healing Village is considered as a prospective example of biomimetic architecture operating similar to natural organisms that create a living structure which is transforming, breathable, and self-cleaning to protect the indoor building and help the users to have better outcomes. The biomimicry and natural architecture methods make Healing Village a good example of well-being for the city of Tehran and other polluted cities in the world.
An Assessment of Water Access Opportunities for a Rural Farming Community in Ecuador
Cristian Casanova, University of Michigan, United StatesTanner Jones, University of Michigan, United States
Natalie Ritter, University of Michigan, United States
Jessica Kahn, University of Michigan, United States
In partnership with a community organization, Nido De Vida, we assessed the water access needs and built a physical map as a prototype to recommend ways to improve water access for the Bolivarense community in Ecuador. The team, using deep dive method, conducted initial interviews with community members from 17 households within a 3 mile radius. Out of 17 households, only six felt secured about the amount of water they have access to during the dry season, but those that do have significant water storage, while all households get their water from creeks which run low in the dry season. Lastly, all of the 17 household saw cost as a barrier to improving their water systems; some explained that they would like to buy storage tanks or electric pumps, but could not afford them. The team, in cooperation with Nido de Vida, employed a range of needs filtering methods in order to set aside some challenges and prioritize the others. After prioritizing and filtering the challenges, most of the high priority challenges centered around ensuring water access for all community members, environmental conservation, education, and community building. Focusing on the challenge of environmental conservation, we created and presented a 3-mile radius physical map to the community, displaying geographic locations of water sources used by various families and locations of homes of the community. This assessment and geographical map has demonstrated that it is possible to use these deliverables and apply it for potential development projects to improve water access for this community.
A Comparative Study of Three Mathematical Models for Predicting the Indoor Environment Quality (IEQ) in Secondary School Classroom
Zhiheng Li, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, JapanEunyoung Kim, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Japan
Indoor environmental quality is considered as an important indicator to reflect the occupants’ comfort level in buildings. However, it is difficult to evaluate the impact of physical parameters on the occupants’ comfort individually because of the coexistence of parameters and their interactions with each inhabitant. The objective of this research is to find out the best-fit mathematical model to predict comfort condition for secondary school by comparing three different models: Iordache’s IEQ model, Wong’s multivariate-logistic model and Ncube’s IEQ model. The best-fit model is applied as a supporting theory for the subsequent interior environment design, which can improve the learning performance of students. In addition, this research can obtain the relevance and difference between models, which provide support for the model identical. This research collected data by combining objective measurement with subjective survey. The whole experiment was conducted in a secondary school classroom in northeast of China, with a sample of 45 students. Data were collected once a week during the two-month experiment. The relevant environmental parameters from the collected data were brought into three mathematical models to calculate the corresponding thermal index, air quality index, acoustic index and visual index. Meanwhile, Actual Mean Votes (AMV) and Actual Percentage of Dissatisfaction (APD) were measured by analyzing the questionnaire from subjective survey to obtain the corresponding AMV and APD curves. The results showed that Wong’s multivariate-logistic model is best-fit comfort prediction for secondary school by comparing the calculated indexes and the corresponding AMV and APD curves through the SPSS and MatLab.
Will Germany Continue to be the World’s Leader in Fighting Climate Change?
Peter Yang, Case Western Reserve University, United StatesGermany has been a long time leader with its energy transformation and the related innovative renewable energy promotion policies in the world fighting the climate change. However, with its upcoming nuclear power phaseout by 2022 and the expiration of generous renewable energy feed-in tariffs in the 2020s, Germany's energy transformation is confronted with uncertainty. Will Germany continue to be a leader in the world's fight against climate change? This study takes a holistic approach to answering this research question. It will not only analyze current statistic data on renewable energy production and consumption, but also examine current and future projects, as well as future trends in the renewable energy development and energy efficiency. The results of this study will help us gain a better understanding the future dynamics of the energy transformation and carbon reduction in the world's early leading country.
Applications of Multi-Walled CNT for Utilization of Solar Thermal Energy
SungWon Kim, Korea National University of Transportation, South KoreaKyeong Hwan Go, Korea National University of Transportation, South Korea
Sae Han Park, Korea National University of Transportation, South Korea
There is a growing interest in the SHC (solar thermal collectors for heating and cooling) technology in order to produce energy of medium temperature below 300 oC such as gas preheating in industrial plant including thermal power plant which is responsible for a very high fraction of fossil fuel consumption and CO2 emission.
A directly-irradiated fluidized bed solar receiver is one of the best options for the SHC application in the industrial plant. The thermal efficiency of the receiver is strongly influenced by the physical properties of the heat-absorbing particles. Carbon nanotube (CNT) could be a promising candidate as bed materials due to its high specific surface area, high thermal conductivity and high thermal resistance under an inert atmosphere. However, it is difficult to handle the CNT powder in the fluidized bed because of the cohesive force between nanotubes on the particles. A method of multi-walled CNT beads preparation with a control over the macroscopic shapes has been proposed for application in the solar thermal collector. The CNT beads of 1.6-1.0 mm were prepared by ball dropping, drying and calcination steps after the CNTs dispersion using m-cresol as a cost-effective processing solvents. The CNT beads show much higher bed conductivity of 0.49 W/mK and lower repose angle (< 30o) with higher particle circularity compared to the raw CNT powders. Finally, the prepared CNT beads have good fluidization behavior in a fluidized bed solar system, indicating promising bed material suitable for the direct gas-solid heat transfer in the fluidized bed.
The Effect of Green Buildings on Environment
Nasir Ahmad Ahmadi, Konya Technical University, TurkeyToday, the construction sector has surpassed other sectors in the increase of carbon footprint. This sector, which uses one third of natural resources, uses 12% of fresh water and is responsible for 40% of total solid waste. Green buildings are designed, operated and terminated to minimize the negative effects of the built environment on human health and the natural environment. This means efficient use of energy, water and other resources; protecting the health of users and improving employee productivity; means reduction of waste, pollution and environmental degradation. Research on green buildings shows, if the buildings are designed and operated in this way, energy consumption compared to the average buildings designed and operated by traditional methods between 24% and 50%, CO2 emissions between 33% and 39%, water consumption between 30% and 50%, solid waste amount by 70% and maintenance costs by 13%. In this research, the effect of green building on environment and climate change was investigated. This study also present design, construction and operation processes of high performance sustainable green buildings.
Developing Lake Outcome Models to Support Indigenous Communities in Their Freshwater Management Actions
Mereana Wilson-Rooy, QEII National Trust, New ZealandA Lake outcome model was created to identify bi-cultural concepts, tools and measures to test the effects of lake freshwater management options for Lake Rotorua. These empirical models aim to address research gaps for lake freshwater management in Aotearoa-New Zealand for cultural purposes. This exploratory research generates new pathways that reflect treaty-partner values, goals and co-governance arrangements for Lake management by designing: 1. A cultural framework as a concept tool to describe water related values from mātauranga and scientific perspectives. This framework identifies physical, chemical and biological factors that link Te Arawa cultural values to current scientific values for lake Rotorua. 2. A Eco-Cultural Lake Systems model (ECLS) to employ a systems approach with ecological, health and economic data inputs to specify and explore the multi-dimensional impacts of water quality interventions on lake health (mauri). 3. Development of quantifiable lake health outcome measures. These outcome measures are: Crayfish CPUE (catch-per-unit-effort), as a cultural indicator of mahinga kai abundance, and lake TLI (trophic level index), as an environmental indicator for mauri and lake health state. 4. ECLS modelling results show wetlands and land use change were better cultural options for water quality improvement compared to alum dosing or multi-use options. 5. Results from ECLS modelling were reconciled with the cultural framework to ensure a holistic and balanced view of health for lake Rotorua. The research provides a lake management regime that is culturally grounded, environmentally accurate and economically focused to ensure the multiple uses for Lake Rotorua are sustainably managed.
A Systematization and Comparison Framework to Facilitate Structured Selection of Sustainability Assessment Approaches
Jan Bitter, RWTH Aachen University, GermanyDaniela Janssen, Institute for Management Cybernetics, Germany
Frank Hees, RWTH Aachen University, Germany
Sustainability assessments (SA) of products, processes, organizations, strategies, etc. aim at providing a basis for decision-making towards (more) sustainable practices and principles. An extensive variety of SA approaches as well as a wide diversity of assessment situations exist, making situation-specific approach selection a complex issue. However, well-founded selection is crucial, as selecting unsuitable approaches for respective assessment situations can lead to incorrect, inconclusive, insignificant, implausible or vulnerable results. Structured, situation-specific selection processes for SA approaches can reduce these effects. However, there is a lack of respective concepts, criteria, guidelines or frameworks for decision-, i.e. selection-support. Based on this, the goal of this work is to develop a systematization and comparison framework, which facilitates structured selection of situation-specific SA approaches. In previous works, Bitter et al. (2018a, 2018b, 2019) proposed a requirements-set for SA approaches, a criteria-set for a systematization and comparison framework as well as respective spectra and specifications for the criteria. In this work, these elements are combined and implemented in form of a meta framework. By means of the criteria-set, SA approaches are characterized and subsequently quantified using the criteria-spectra. Thus, via an extensive rule base, the “fit” of SA approaches to situation-specific requirements, i.e. desired characteristics can be calculated. Based on these calculations within the meta framework, structured decision-support towards the situation-specific selection of suitable SA approaches is provided. For future works, the developed systematization and comparison framework can be used to systematically investigate the influence – nature and extend – of approach selection on assessment results.
Net Zero Energy Building Design as the Challenge of the Current Agenda
Essraa Fatani, Eastern Michigan University, United StatesShinming Shyu, Eastern Michigan University, United States
This paper reviews the emerging literature on Net Zero Energy Building characteristics in office buildings. Recently, the frequency and intensity of energy building performance has penetrated into every aspect of the architecture industry including its design. Net Zero Energy Buildings aim to reduce energy consumption by transforming renewable energy into power supplying buildings' needs. While there have been few successful real projects of Net Zero Buildings, case studies have noted to the existence of multiple failed cases. Our knowledge concerning the factors contributing to the challenge of reaching Net Zero Building is limited at best. Using a systematic review approach of the literature, this research has mined the available scholarship on Net Zero Buildings features in the architecture literature and classified the barriers of implementation of Net Zero Buildings into few categories. Those categories are building design factors and energy generation factors. Building design factors is composed of passive and active design. Energy generation factors are constructed of renewable energy sources. The findings are significant due to the increasing emphases put on energy consumption of office building. The results suggest that designs of Net Zero Energy Buildings in office building must take more into consideration the building envelop, lighting system, and HVAC as important aspects in the ZNEB design.
Efficient Distribution of Wasted Food Using Smart Phone Application -Foodzo- An App Under Development
Ann Leelu George, Tata Elxsi, IndiaJohn Victor Christy, United Arab Emirates University, United Arab Emirates
This research aims at reducing food wastes and food storage losses due to mishandling. On average, about one-third of the food produced is lost or wasted globally. According to UN estimates, 40 percent of the food produced in India is either lost or wasted. At the same time, a report by the UN’s Food and Agricultural Organisation states that every third malnourished child is Indian. This shows the need for the world’s second-most populous country needs to reduce its food wastage to feed the 194 million Indians who go hungry daily. FoodZo aims at alleviating these two problems at the same time. It is an app platform where one set of users (food chains, restaurants or individuals) can post pictures as well as quantity available of extra consumable food, and another set of users can see the availability of food at low prices, and get connected. The cost of the food will be half the market price. The consumers can locate the food available near them via the app, and choose to drive themselves and get the food, or can choose to get it delivered for a nominal delivery fee. In India where the number of smartphone users is expected to reach 84% of the total population by 2022, FoodZo will be the perfectly in-hand solution for lessening wastage as well as alleviating poverty.
Engineering Complex Systems: Do Parts and Interactions Receive Equal Attention?
Katelyn Stenger, University of Virginia, United StatesLeidy Klotz, University of Virginia, United States
Engineering complex systems remains a difficult task, (Lade and Peterson 2019). Those engineering complex systems for resilience often begin by identifying the systems’ parts, interactions, and environment, (Meadows 2008). To achieve resilience, experts suggest managing interactions – such as increasing absorption of water in stormwater systems, (Elmqvist, Andersson, and Frantzeskaki 2019). Engineering with interactions can be difficult because they have lower salience when compared with a system’s parts, (Higgins 1996). While resilience research shows the need for managing interactions, current resilience research does not address how we might overlook interactions. This research fills the gap in understanding how we might overlook interaction, in favor of parts, when engineering complex systems. We tested between-subjects using a factorial design in an in-lab, behavioral experiment to quantify how we engineer complex systems. Participants (est. n = 150) were randomly assigned a control or manipulation group, and provided a written description and visual of a stormwater system. Participants in the manipulation group saw labeled interactions on the visual to increase the interactions’ salience. All participants were asked to engineer the stormwater system, and decrease run-off water. Data collection is ongoing; we hypothesize participants in the manipulation group will engineer more often with interactions than the control group, and the control group will engineer more often on parts than interactions. Our findings fill the gap in understanding how interactions can be considered while engineering complex systems. Our research contributes to identifying potential blind spots in our process engineering a more resilient infrastructure.
Communicating Sustainability
Claudette Artwick, Washington and Lee University, United StatesThis paper examines contemporary mediated communication on sustainability, encompassing strategic messaging and news. Using case study analysis, it explores how information about sustainability is being communicated by a range of actors—from environmental non-profits to Fortune 500 companies—and how those messages and stories flow through mainstream and social media. Situated in a political climate where tweets that cast doubt compete with science, how do citizens and consumers navigate this information, and what is its potential impact?
The concept of sustainability guiding this work draws from the UN document, Our Common Future, which defines it as development that “meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Adopted by myriad organizations, the concept of sustainability extends beyond development to include a range of practices—from natural resource stewardship to supporting human health and economic vitality.
Sustainable Disease Management in Aquaculture
Andrew Wargo, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, United StatesWorld dependency on aquaculture is rapidly expanding, particularly in developing nations. Aquaculture recently passed fisheries as the primary source for aquatic based food and natural products worldwide. There is high potential for aquaculture to become one of the most sustainable sources of animal protein for human consumption. As with agriculture, disease management in aquaculture is a major hurdle for production. Various strategies are utilized to manage disease in aquaculture, such as antibiotic treatment and vaccination. However, many practices can lead to increased disease management problems in the long-term, thus reducing aquaculture sustainability. This presentation will provide an overview of some of the disease management sustainability challenges faced by aquaculture, and provide some possible solutions. Specific examples of antibiotic treatment and vaccination approaches will be highlighted, with quantitative data from research studies. This work is directed towards bolstering aquaculture and food security sustainability.
Accounting Sustainability of Human Activities
Matthias Rapf, University of Stuttgart - Institute for Sanitary Engineering, Water Quality and Solid Waste Management, GermanyMartin Kranert, University of Stuttgart - Institute for Sanitary Engineering, Water Quality and Solid Waste Management, Germany
How do we measure Sustainability? Is a central question when it comes to the discussion about the impacts of mankind’s activities on the ecosystem and about how far it is necessary to minimise them in order to leave a functioning planet to future generations. However, answers to these questions mostly apply paraphrases and analogies, often influenced by personal opinions and the current socio-political discourse. Thus sustainability quickly becomes a hollow phrase, a sales argument. In order to straighten up this discussion, sustainability needs its own unique physical parameter enabling us to calculate it based on reliable scientific studies. The appropriate physical quantity has already been used for decades in connection with sustainability. But just like sustainability, it is mostly used as a buzzword and rarely in its actual physical sense, leading to misunderstandings and contradictions. We are talking about entropy.
Far off from the beaten tracks, on which entropy is equated with disorder or diversity, as measure for reversibility the variable is directly physically linked to the impact of any activity on its environment and therefore to sustainability. It can be easily calculated for all real processes and therefore serve for their unambiguous comparison. We are convinced that sustainability is a topic too important to leave to green publicity, and that the physical quantity entropy is able to lead from the discussion about sustainability to a more sustainable human behaviour.
Don’t Consume Less, Just Recycle More: Public Perceptions About Waste Generation and the Recycling System
Michaela Barnett, University of Virginia, United StatesPatrick Hancock, University of Virginia, United States
Shahzeen Attari, Indiana University, United States
Leidy Klotz, University of Virginia, United States
As waste generation and its environmental costs increase globally, do Americans have any idea how much waste they generate? What do people think are effective personal actions they can take to reduce waste? In a national online survey, 932 participants reported their perceptions about waste behaviors and the recycling system. When asked about what they and other Americans could do to reduce landfill waste and, in a second question, reduce plastic pollution in the ocean, most participants cited disposal behaviors (e.g., recycle more, donate clothes, or compost) rather than source reduction behaviors (e.g., purchasing products with less packaging, not buying unnecessary items). Similarly, when thinking about how they would change their behaviors if recycling were no longer available, most participants reported that they would either drive farther to recycle or throw away recyclable goods rather than reducing purchase of single-use items that require disposal. This contrasts with EPA and UN waste management recommendations to minimize waste production by focusing on source reduction and reuse. Although recycling will be an important part of a sustainable circular economy model, recycling alone and as currently practiced is not an effective waste management strategy. The misperceptions revealed in this research indicate the need for better public understanding about what happens to waste after it is thrown “away” and increased emphasis on waste reduction strategies.
A Content-Analytic Exploration of Contrasting Environmental Policy Outcomes: An Examination of the State Responses to ‘Hydraulic-Fracturing’ in New York and Pennsylvania
Dipanjan Chatterjee, Brock University, CanadaDamayanti Banerjee, Colorado State University, United States
In our research we adopt a content-analytic approach to address the question: Why did the governmental decisions and outcomes on ‘Hydraulic-Fracturing’ differ markedly in the neighboring states of New York & Pennsylvania. While Pennsylvania has allowed ‘Hydraulic-Fracturing’ (or Fracking) for extraction of mineral oil-and-gas resources, New York decided to ban fracking in 2014 after an extended period of regulatory and scientific study. The dissimilarities in government and regulatory responses to fracking across the two states especially assume significance when one considers the similarities in socio-economic conditions, industrial past, demographic resemblances and geological commonality of oil-rich Marcellus shale deposits on which both the sates sit. For students of public and environmental policy the contrasting outcome to an essentially analogous environmental policy question, provides a key opportunity to analyze and understand the dynamics of environmental policy formulation, when noticeably opposing outcomes materialize in largely similar decision-making contexts.
While a rich body of literature has examined the social, economic, environmental & regulatory outcomes and antecedents of fracking, there has been no discernible exploration of the contrasts in policy outcomes related to fracking. Moreover, a few of the studies that do address the differing outcomes in NY and PA on fracking have largely occurred within the practitioner and trade publications, and there is a lack of rigorous theory-driven approach to understand the differing policy outcomes on Fracking in NY and PA.
Empowering Communities by Optimizing the Deployment of Neighborhood-scale Resilience Hubs: A Case Study of Maui Island
Alexander de Roode, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SwedenIvo Martinac, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden
As a part of an integrated planning approach to develop programs intended to support communities increasingly facing impacts of natural disasters, including those associated with climate change, neighborhoods must strengthen their local community cohesion and resilience. One way to support neighborhood-scale resilience is to create recognized and accepted local resilience hubs. These hubs are physical spaces intended to serve as a community resource during normal non-emergency periods, while also having the ability to serve as backup emergency shelters and emergency recovery hubs during and immediately following emergency events, such as natural disasters. Critical services are integrated into such resilience hubs, including back-up power supply, potable water, telecommunications, medical resources, and food provisions as complements to other support systems. This paper provides a case study of how resilience hub sites are selected and enhanced for resiliency using bottom-up community engagement methods coupled with technical resilient power feasibility studies. This methodology results in the creation of resilience hubs that are accepted, trusted and stewarded by neighborhood residents, while meeting specified community needs. The community engagement process in this study informed a resilient power feasibility analysis of three targeted sites on the Island of Maui. Communities who implement this approach will increase their resilience, including their community cohesion. This study is intended to inform related research exploring how a distributed network of resilience hubs can serve as a critical component of resilient communities who face increasing vulnerability to disaster impacts resulting from climate change.
The Strength Property of Amorphous Metallic Fiber Reinforced Mortar with Blast Furnace Slag Powder
Sejin Choi, Wonkwang University, South KoreaTae gue Oh, Wonkwang University, South Korea
Blast furnace slag powder (BFSP), the by-product of steel industry, has been widely used in the production of cement mortar or concrete as one of the cementitious materials. The benefits of using BFSP in cement mortar or concrete are as follows: it can reduce the concrete production cost; it can reduce the green gas (CO2) emission of cement industry; it can reduce the possibility of a thermal crack in mass concrete; and it can improve the durability of cement mortar or concrete. In South Korea, blast furnace slag is produced about 15 million tons a year. However, much of this is treated as waste and dumped in landfills. In this study, the strength properties of eco-friendly mortar using BFSP and the amorphous metallic fiber (AMF), which has excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical properties, were investigated. The BFSP was used to replace 40% of the cement content by the weight. In addition, the AMF with 15mm length was used at additional content of 0, 10, 20, and 30 kg/m3. Test results indicated that the flexural strength of Af30 sample with 30kg/m3 of AMF was approximately 49% higher than that of the control sample.