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Article
Publication date: 20 December 2023

Kailash Choudhary, Narpat Ram Sangwa and Kuldip Singh Sangwan

This study aims to quantify and compare the environmental impacts of Marble-stone and Kota-stone flooring options widely used for buildings in India. The study discusses the…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to quantify and compare the environmental impacts of Marble-stone and Kota-stone flooring options widely used for buildings in India. The study discusses the possibility of carbon sequestration through Bamboo cultivation in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The study has followed a standard life cycle assessment (LCA) framework based on ISO 14040 guidelines. Three distinct phases have been compared on midpoint and endpoint assessment categories – raw material, polishing and disposal. Primary data has been collected from the construction site in India, and secondary data has been collected from the Ecoinvent 3.0 database. Previous studies have been referred to discuss and calculate the area of bamboo cultivation required to sequestrate the generated carbon from the flooring.

Findings

The study has found that endpoint category damage to resources, and midpoint categories of climate change, metal depletion and agricultural land use are highly impacted in building floorings. The study has also found that the Marble-stone floor generates higher environmental impacts than the Kota-stone floor in most of the midpoint and endpoint impact categories. This difference is significant in the raw material phase due to the different compositions of stones. The study also found that Bamboo has excellent potential to act as a carbon sink and mitigate the generated carbon.

Research limitations/implications

This study excludes human labour, cutting and distribution of floor tiles made of Marble-stone and Kota-stone. The researcher can use the study to evaluate, compare and benchmark the various building flooring options from the environmental perspective. The study aids to the body of knowledge available on the various building flooring options by presenting the LCA or the environmental impacts generated by two flooring options. It is expected that the architects and builders can use these results to develop carbon-neutral buildings. This study provides a methodology for governments, constructors, builders and individuals to evaluate, compare and benchmark the various construction materials from the environmental perspective by computing the environmental impacts throughout the life cycle of the materials.

Originality/value

This study compares two widely used building flooring options using the LCA methodology and evaluates the potential of bamboo cultivation near the buildings for carbon sinks. The study is unique because it shows the environmental impacts of two flooring options and the carbon sequestration method to mitigate/absorb the generated environmental impacts in or around the building itself through bamboo cultivation. This study may set the foundation for carbon-neutral buildings.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 February 2024

Nazanin Eisazadeh, Frank De Troyer and Karen Allacker

The aim is to holistically assess the environmental performance of windows and analyse how their design and characteristics contribute to the overall performance of the…

Abstract

Purpose

The aim is to holistically assess the environmental performance of windows and analyse how their design and characteristics contribute to the overall performance of the building/space. This study focuses on the performance of windows in patient rooms hosting less mobile people.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the life cycle environmental impacts of different glazing types, window frames and fire safety doors at the product level. This article also presents a building-integrated environmental analysis of patient rooms that considers the multiple functionalities of windows by incorporating dynamic energy analysis, comfort and daylighting performance with a life cycle assessment (LCA) study.

Findings

The results indicate that the amount of flat glass is the main contributor to the environmental impacts of the glazing units. As for the patient rooms, global warming shows the most significant contribution to the environmental costs, followed by human toxicity, particulate matter formation and eutrophication. The key drivers for these impacts are production processes and operational energy use. This study highlights the significance of evaluating a wide range of criteria for assessing the performance of windows.

Originality/value

An integrated assessment approach is used to investigate the influence of windows on environmental performance by considering the link between window/design parameters and their effects on energy use/costs, daylighting, comfort and environmental impacts. The embodied impacts of different building elements and the influence of various design parameters on environmental performance are assessed and compared. The environmental costs are expressed as an external environmental cost (euro).

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 April 2024

Adinda Hanan and Yeni Budi Rachman

Rare book collections are special, not only in terms of their physical appearance but also because of their historical significance and the information they contain. The purpose…

Abstract

Purpose

Rare book collections are special, not only in terms of their physical appearance but also because of their historical significance and the information they contain. The purpose of this study is twofold: to identify the physical condition of rare book collections and to determine the main causes of damage to rare books collection that belongs to a museum library in Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

This research involved conducting a survey of the physical condition of the collection of rare books owned by a museum library in Indonesia. Supporting data was also obtained through interviews with one of the staff who served as the museum collection conservator. This study used random sampling to take samples from the collection, which consisted of 950 rare books, with total sample of 91.

Findings

The results obtained state that the condition of the existing rare book collection is classified as severely damaged. One of the causes of damage that can be addressed immediately is the cleaning regime: the collection and library space should be cleaned thoroughly and regularly so that dust and dirt in and around the rare book collection can be reduced.

Research limitations/implications

This research was limited to physical identification, which can be done easily because it does not require various kinds of laboratory tests. It was a case study examining a single collection in a single museum library. The pool of books from which the samples were taken was therefore relatively homogenous. Therefore, it is hoped that further research can identify other factors and types of damage in more detail so that all damage to rare book collections can be identified and mitigated.

Originality/value

Research discussing the condition of rare book collections, especially for special libraries in museums in Indonesia, is still very limited. Detailed surveys of the physical condition of collections, especially rare book collections in museums, have rarely been discussed by previous research. The work will contribute to assessing the physical condition of rare book collections.

Details

Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9342

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 April 2024

Sixian Rao, Changwei Zhang, Fei Zhao, Lei Bao and Xiaoyi Wang

This paper aims to explore the influence of corrosion-deformation interactions (CDI) on the corrosion behavior and mechanisms of 316LN under applied tensile stresses.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the influence of corrosion-deformation interactions (CDI) on the corrosion behavior and mechanisms of 316LN under applied tensile stresses.

Design/methodology/approach

Corrosion of metals would be aggravated by CDI under applied stress. Notably, the presence of nitrogen in 316LN austenitic stainless steel (SS) would enhance the corrosion resistance compared to the nitrogen-absent 316L SS. To clarify the CDI behaviors, electrochemical corrosion experiments were performed on 316LN specimens under different applied stress levels. Complementary analyses, including three-dimensional morphological examinations by KH-7700 digital microscope and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy, were conducted to investigate the macroscopic and microscopic corrosion morphology and to characterize the composition of corrosion products within pits. Furthermore, ion chromatography was used to analyze the solution composition variations after immersion corrosion tests of 316LN in a 6 wt.% FeCl3 solution compared to original FeCl3 solution. Electrochemical experiment results revealed the linear decrease in free corrosion potential with increasing applied stress. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results indicated that high tensile stress level damaged the integrity of passivation film, as evidenced by the remarkable reduction in electrochemical impedance. Ion chromatography analyses proved the concentrations increase of NO3 and NH4+ ion concentrations in the corrosion media after corrosion tests.

Findings

The enhanced corrosion resistance of 316LN SS is attributable to the presence of nitrogen.

Research limitations/implications

The scope of this study is confined to the influence of tensile stress on the electrochemical corrosion of 316LN at ambient temperatures; it does not encompass the potential effects of elevated temperatures or compressive stress.

Practical implications

The resistance to stress electrochemical corrosion in SS may be enhanced through nitrogen alloying.

Originality/value

This paper presents a systematic investigation into the stress electrochemical corrosion of 316LN, marking the inaugural study of its impact on corrosion behaviors and underlying mechanisms.

Details

Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0003-5599

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 March 2023

Shan Peng, Ranran Yang, Binglong Lei, Yun Gao, Renhua Chen, Xiaohong Xia and Kevin P. Homewood

This paper aims to systematically demonstrate a methodology to determine the relative and absolute encapsulation efficiencies (αRe and αAb) for thermally- and chemically-robust…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to systematically demonstrate a methodology to determine the relative and absolute encapsulation efficiencies (αRe and αAb) for thermally- and chemically-robust inorganic pigments, typically like ZrSiO4-based pigments, thereby enhancing their coloring performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors designed a route, surplus alkali-decomposition and subsequently strong-acid dissolution (SAD2) to completely decompose three classic zircon pigments (Pr–ZrSiO4, Fe2O3@ZrSiO4 and CdS@ZrSiO4) into clear solutions and preferably used inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) to determine the concentrations of host elements and chromophores, thereby deriving the numeric data and interrelation of αRe and αAb.

Findings

Zircon pigments can be thoroughly decomposed into some dissoluble zirconate–silicate resultants by SAD2 at a ratio of the fluxing agent to pigment over 6. ICP-OES is proved more suitable than some other quantification techniques in deriving the compositional concentrations, thereby the values of αRe and αAb, and their transformation coefficient KRA, which maintains stably within 0.8–0.9 in Fe2O3@ZrSiO4 and CdS@ZrSiO4 and is slightly reduced to 0.67–0.85 in Pr–ZrSiO4.

Practical implications

The SAD2 method and encapsulation efficiencies are well applicable for both zircon pigments and the other pigmental or non-pigmental inhomogeneous systems in characterizing their accurate composition.

Originality/value

The authors herein first proposed strict definitions for the relative and absolute encapsulation efficiencies for inorganic pigments, developed a relatively stringent methodology to determine their accurate values and interrelation.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 March 2024

Ashani Fernando, Chandana Siriwardana, David Law, Chamila Gunasekara, Kevin Zhang and Kumari Gamage

The increasing urgency to address climate change in construction has made green construction (GC) and sustainability critical topics for academia and industry professionals…

Abstract

Purpose

The increasing urgency to address climate change in construction has made green construction (GC) and sustainability critical topics for academia and industry professionals. However, the volume of literature in this field has made it impractical to rely solely on traditional systematic evidence mapping methodologies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs machine learning (ML) techniques to analyze the extensive evidence-base on GC. Using both supervised and unsupervised ML, 5,462 relevant papers were filtered from 10,739 studies published from 2010 to 2022, retrieved from the Scopus and Web of Science databases.

Findings

Key themes in GC encompass green building materials, construction techniques, assessment methodologies and management practices. GC assessment and techniques were prominent, while management requires more research. The results from prevalence of topics and heatmaps revealed important patterns and interconnections, emphasizing the prominent role of materials as major contributors to the construction sector. Consistency of the results with VOSviewer analysis further validated the findings, demonstrating the robustness of the review approach.

Originality/value

Unlike other reviews focusing only on specific aspects of GC, use of ML techniques to review a large pool of literature provided a holistic understanding of the research landscape. It sets a precedent by demonstrating the effectiveness of ML techniques in addressing the challenge of analyzing a large body of literature. By showcasing the connections between various facets of GC and identifying research gaps, this research aids in guiding future initiatives in the field.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 September 2023

Fenjuan Shao and Qingbin Cui

This study aims to compare and analyze the impact of the commonly used takeout packing (Kraft paper bowl and plastic bowl) through life cycle assessment, then certain suggestions…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to compare and analyze the impact of the commonly used takeout packing (Kraft paper bowl and plastic bowl) through life cycle assessment, then certain suggestions for the development of green packaging could be provided.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, Simapro software was used to calculate and analyze the whole life cycle of takeout packaging from the stage of raw materials, production and processing and waste disposal.

Findings

Twelve environmental categories were used to quantitatively analyze the environmental impact of the two different bowls. The results showed that the impact of Kraft paper bowl on the environment was less than that of plastic bowl, regardless of raw material, processing or waste stage. Kraft paper bowl was better than plastic bowl.

Research limitations/implications

This study compared and analyzed the progress of 750-mL bowls made with different materials and specific specifications.

Practical implications

Green packaging is the development trend of the future packaging and follows the principle of reduce, resue, recycle, degradable. According to the calculation results, corresponding suggestions can be put forward from production, processing, use, waste and other aspects, and make corresponding contributions to the development of green packaging.

Originality/value

The contribution and impact of each stage of the product on the environment can be studied. The environmental impacts, such as global warming potential and water scarcity, can be reduced through different solutions, such as the use of green materials, good processing techniques and higher recycling rates.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 25 March 2024

Tiago Ferreira Barcelos and Kaio Glauber Vital Costa

This study aims to analyze and compare the relationship between international trade in global value chains (GVC) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for Brazil and China from 2000…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to analyze and compare the relationship between international trade in global value chains (GVC) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for Brazil and China from 2000 to 2016.

Design/methodology/approach

The input-output method apply to multiregional tables from Eora-26 to decompose the GHG emissions of the Brazilian and Chinese productive structure.

Findings

The data reveals that Chinese production and consumption emissions are associated with power generation and energy-intensive industries, a significant concern among national and international policymakers. For Brazil, the largest territorial emissions captured by the metrics come from services and traditional industry, which reveals room for improving energy efficiency. The analysis sought to emphasize how the productive structure and dynamics of international trade have repercussions on the environmental dimension, to promote arguments that guide the execution of a more sustainable, productive and commercial development strategy and offer inputs to advance discussions on the attribution of climate responsibility.

Research limitations/implications

The metrics did not capture emissions related to land use and deforestation, which are representative of Brazilian emissions.

Originality/value

Comparative analysis of emissions embodied in traditional sectoral trade flows and GVC, on backward and forward sides, for developing countries with the main economic regions of the world.

Details

EconomiA, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1517-7580

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 March 2024

Jnaneswar K

This study aims to demystify the mediating mechanism behind the relationship between green human resource management (HRM) and an organization’s environmental performance with the…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to demystify the mediating mechanism behind the relationship between green human resource management (HRM) and an organization’s environmental performance with the support of resource-based view theory and social exchange theory. Specifically, this study investigates the sequential mediation of green work engagement and green innovation on the direct effect of green HRM on environmental performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This quantitative study collected data from 311 employees working in various Indian manufacturing firms using an online survey. Structural equation modeling was used to determine the model fit of the serial mediation model, and PROCESS macro was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed the following important results. First, green HRM positively affects an organization’s environmental performance. Second, green work engagement mediates the effect of green HRM on environmental performance. Third, green innovation mediates the effect of green HRM on environmental performance. Fourth, green work engagement and green innovation sequentially mediate the green HRM–environmental relationship.

Practical implications

This study offers the following practical implications. First, it improves the managerial comprehension of the processes in enhancing environmental performance. Second, it implies that managers need to implement green HRM in their organizations as they play a pivotal role in improving employees’ green work engagement, organizations’ green innovation and environmental performance.

Originality/value

The present study is one of the primary research works that examined the serial mediating effect of green work engagement and green innovation in the relationship between green HRM and environmental performance. This study enriches the existing literature on green HRM and environmental performance by uncovering the mediating mechanism of green work engagement and green innovation.

Details

Social Responsibility Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1747-1117

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 March 2024

Laharish Guntuka, Prabhjot S. Mukandwal, Emel Aktas and Vamsi Sai Krishna Paluvadi

We conduct a multidisciplinary systematic literature review on climate neutrality in the supply chain. While carbon neutrality has gained prominence, our study argues that…

Abstract

Purpose

We conduct a multidisciplinary systematic literature review on climate neutrality in the supply chain. While carbon neutrality has gained prominence, our study argues that achieving carbon neutrality alone is not enough to address climate change effectively, as non-CO2 greenhouse gases (GHG) are potent contributors to global warming.

Design/methodology/approach

We used multiple databases, including EBSCO, ProQuest, Science Direct, Emerald and Google Scholar, to identify articles related to climate neutrality in the context of non-CO2 gases. A total of 71 articles in environmental science, climate change, energy systems, agriculture and logistics are reviewed to provide insights into the climate neutrality of supply chains.

Findings

We find that, in addition to CO2, other GHG such as methane, nitrous oxide, ozone and fluorinated gases also significantly contribute to climate change. Our literature review identified several key pillars for achieving net-zero GHG emissions, including end-use efficiency and electrification, clean electricity supply, clean fuel supply, “GHG capture, storage and utilization,” enhanced land sinks, reduced non-CO2 emissions and improved feed and manure management.

Originality/value

We contribute to the literature on climate neutrality of supply chains by emphasizing the significance of non-CO2 GHG along with CO2 and highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to climate neutrality in addressing climate change. This study advances the understanding of climate neutrality of supply chains and contributes to the discourse on effective climate change mitigation strategies. It provides clear future research directions.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

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