This study discusses high-carbon characteristics, the unsustainability of China's development, and the fact that China needs to transform its development mode. China's low-carbon transition must include indust...This study discusses high-carbon characteristics, the unsustainability of China's development, and the fact that China needs to transform its development mode. China's low-carbon transition must include industry structure adjustment, energy saving and efficiency increases, energy structure improvement, carbon sink development, adaptation capability, and low-carbon pilot schemes.Low-carbon urbanization is a key measure in China's low-carbon transition. China's urbanization faces high-carbon risks. Thus, this study presents a roadmap for transforming urbanization into a low-carbon one. The transition to low-carbon urbanization is a common trend in the developing world. There is a lot of room for international cooperation.展开更多
Energy flexibility can address the challenges of large scale integration of renewable energy resources and thereby increasing imbalance in the power system. Flexible power system can provide reliable supply, low elect...Energy flexibility can address the challenges of large scale integration of renewable energy resources and thereby increasing imbalance in the power system. Flexible power system can provide reliable supply, low electricity cost and sustainability. Various situations and factors influence the adoption of the flexibility solutions, such as flexible electricity generation, demand-response, and electricity storage. This paper tries to analyze the current energy flexibility solutions and the factors that can influence the energy flexibility adoption. This paper takes Philippines as case study to provide an overview of the current condition of the Philippines＇ power system and discuss the energy flexibility in the Philippines＇ power system. A further discussion and recommendation is conducted in the end of the paper.展开更多
Lighting design is one of the fastest changing areas in building engineering. It has evolved significantly in recent years due to changing technology and demands for improved quality, better control, reduced energy an...Lighting design is one of the fastest changing areas in building engineering. It has evolved significantly in recent years due to changing technology and demands for improved quality, better control, reduced energy and sustainability. This paper is an overview of what is happening in Europe and elsewhere and examines the literature to find that latest recommendations in the Code for Lighting issued by the SLL （Society of Light and Lighting） in the UK change previous demands for equal illuminance across a working plane to more specific and demanding criteria. There are recommendations for qualitative metrics and better distribution of light so as to enhance the visual appearance of interiors. European standards are also examined and the LENI （lighting energy numerical indicator） has been found to be a better way of reducing energy than installed load. New LED （light-emitting diode） lamp technology is examined and daylight is discussed in the context of these changing demands. It is found that lighting standards and design are changing for the better but that standards will need to evolve further if they are to ensure good quality lighting.展开更多
The conversion of solar energyinto electricity reveals a huge importance in the production of＂clean＂ energy, mainly when applied to decentralized production systems （micro-generation）. However, there is the need t...The conversion of solar energyinto electricity reveals a huge importance in the production of＂clean＂ energy, mainly when applied to decentralized production systems （micro-generation）. However, there is the need to develop and optimize these processes in order to turn it more sustainable in economic and technological scoops. The main purpose of this work is to study the solar energy conversion into electricity through photovoltaic cells, characterizing the process efficiencies. This study intends to evaluate the energetic and exergetic efficiencies defining them as indicators in the formulation ofa sustainability index. All the procedures are in a theoretical scope with an illustrative example in the end of this work.展开更多
According to the European Commission, the three challenges that Europe must face related to energy are sustainability, security of supply and reaching an effective competitiveness in the internal energy market. To mee...According to the European Commission, the three challenges that Europe must face related to energy are sustainability, security of supply and reaching an effective competitiveness in the internal energy market. To meet these three challenges, the Commission deems necessary to implement a common energy policy. To this end, it proposed an action plan based on the effective creation of an internal energy market, the solidarity between Member States and security of supply for oil, gas and electricity, Therefore energy security is one of the main concerns, and so one of the priorities, of the new European energy policy proposed by the Commission. This paper tries to show that even though energy has been on the basis of what we call today European Union, it has been extremely complicated to get a common energy policy. Bearing this in mind, energy security has been one of the main areas of consensus that has led EU to the mentioned Commission proposal, and we can see now the first steps of the so much wanted common energy policy.展开更多
Athens, a metropolis characterized by agglutination and compactness, but at the same time facing numerous urban and transport issues, saw its population swell during the 20th century which led to extensive urbanizatio...Athens, a metropolis characterized by agglutination and compactness, but at the same time facing numerous urban and transport issues, saw its population swell during the 20th century which led to extensive urbanization phenomena. This continued urbanization increases profoundly all urban activities with transportation being the key driver in energy consumption. Theories for sustainable cities prerequisite are the integration of a number of acts in order to reduce energy consumption, with mobility being the first consideration among others. The aim of this paper is to critically explore implemented policies and plans as well as forthcoming strategic plans in terms of sustainable mobility as imposed in large scale regeneration plans in contemporary Athens. Research focuses on strategic interventions since the 1980s, such as the Athenian Daktylios （ring road for circulation management） and its later adjustments, the upcoming pedestrianization and unification of the commercial triangle and its subsequent tram line extension as well as the notable implementation of the metropolitan cycling network. Moreover, the discussion takes into consideration the implications of the Greek economic crisis in mobility choices, as aimless travels have been reduced to a minimum, several cars have been abandoned and cyclists seem to tentatively claim some space in the urban environment. What will likely be the next day in the Athenian historic centre？ Considering the transformations that are expected in the immediate future, this research paper explores their potential to enhance urban environment, reduce climate change impacts and amplify resilience.展开更多
In this paper we construct a theoretical framework linking governance practiced by some countries to some of their economical, financial, social and environmental variables. To achieve this goal, we selected a sample ...In this paper we construct a theoretical framework linking governance practiced by some countries to some of their economical, financial, social and environmental variables. To achieve this goal, we selected a sample of data composed of variables from 55 countries, available at the World Bank website. On the other hand, we measured the countries＇ level of governance by the indicator promoted by Transparency International. The period considered in this research was 8 years, from 2000 to 2008. We used the method of linear regression with panel data, in order to investigate statistical relationships among governance and the other variables. We applied the method of simultaneous equations in order to make a robustness test on the first results and findings. The results of the two models converged and showed the existence of a statistical significant relationship between governance and several of the variables investigated. This allows us to infer that the development of the countries govemanee is closely linked with the long-term sustainable development.展开更多
Improving daylighting strategy is a mandatory step to achieve visual enjoyment and energy saving in buildings. Psycho, physiological effects and energy performance have to be investigated in order to define a range of...Improving daylighting strategy is a mandatory step to achieve visual enjoyment and energy saving in buildings. Psycho, physiological effects and energy performance have to be investigated in order to define a range of different daylighting strategies, thanks to daylighting devices and climate based daylight modeling. Daylighting optimization ensures indoor healthier rooms, reduces electric light consumption and cuts the risk of glare. The best way to achieve these targets is to define users lighting needs, based on visual targets and to draw up some green measures to reduce electricity demands. Involving new climate-based daylight modeling metrics aims at defining proper illumination targets, in order to drastically reduce electrical lights, as well as reducing thermal loads deriving from cooling and HVAC （heating, ventilation and air conditioning） systems.展开更多
China＇s energy security situation is increasingly severe. There are many challenges and opportunities in the energy development sector. Bio-fuel has much superiority： abundant resources, product diversification, rec...China＇s energy security situation is increasingly severe. There are many challenges and opportunities in the energy development sector. Bio-fuel has much superiority： abundant resources, product diversification, recycling and increasing rural income. Speeding up bio-fuel development should be a strategic direction for China. In this study we evaluate the relationship between bio-energy utilization and food security using the grey relational analysis method. The results show that China＇ s biomass energy development has caused little negative impact on food security as determined by agricultural production. However, that does not mean China＇s bio-energy can develop in an unrestricted way. Developing bio-energy requires the consideration of many factors, including large investment in the short term and fierce competition from biomass supply.展开更多
Sn-based electrocatalysts have been gaining increasing attention due to their potential contribution in the conversion of CO2 into HCOOH driven by sustainable energy sources;however,their actual capability to catalyze...Sn-based electrocatalysts have been gaining increasing attention due to their potential contribution in the conversion of CO2 into HCOOH driven by sustainable energy sources;however,their actual capability to catalyze CO2 reduction reaction(CO2RR)still cannot meet the requirements of commercial-scale applications.Therefore developing Snbased catalyst is of vital importance.Herein,the sheet-like heterophase Sn O2/Sn3O4 with a high density of phase interfaces has been first engineered by a facile hydrothermal process,with Sn3O4 as the dominant phase.The evidences from experiments and theoretical simulation indicate that the charge redistribution and built-in electric field at heterophase interfaces boost CO2 adsorption and HCOO*formation,accelerate the charge transfer between the catalysts and reactants,and ultimately greatly elevate the intrinsic activity of the heterophase Sn O2/Sn3O4 towards CO2 RR.Meanwhile,the in-situ generated porous structure and metal Sn during CO2 RR improve the mass transmission within the interlayer volume and the conductivity of Sn O2/Sn3O4.The heterophase Sn O2/Sn3O4 displays high activity and selectivity for CO2 RR,achieving an improvement in CO2 reduction current density,88.3%Faradaic efficiency of HCOOH conversion at-0.9 VRHE,along with a long-term tolerance in CO2 RR.This study demonstrates that heterophase interface engineering is an efficient strategy to regulate advanced catalysts for different applications.展开更多
文摘This study discusses high-carbon characteristics, the unsustainability of China's development, and the fact that China needs to transform its development mode. China's low-carbon transition must include industry structure adjustment, energy saving and efficiency increases, energy structure improvement, carbon sink development, adaptation capability, and low-carbon pilot schemes.Low-carbon urbanization is a key measure in China's low-carbon transition. China's urbanization faces high-carbon risks. Thus, this study presents a roadmap for transforming urbanization into a low-carbon one. The transition to low-carbon urbanization is a common trend in the developing world. There is a lot of room for international cooperation.
文摘Energy flexibility can address the challenges of large scale integration of renewable energy resources and thereby increasing imbalance in the power system. Flexible power system can provide reliable supply, low electricity cost and sustainability. Various situations and factors influence the adoption of the flexibility solutions, such as flexible electricity generation, demand-response, and electricity storage. This paper tries to analyze the current energy flexibility solutions and the factors that can influence the energy flexibility adoption. This paper takes Philippines as case study to provide an overview of the current condition of the Philippines＇ power system and discuss the energy flexibility in the Philippines＇ power system. A further discussion and recommendation is conducted in the end of the paper.
文摘Lighting design is one of the fastest changing areas in building engineering. It has evolved significantly in recent years due to changing technology and demands for improved quality, better control, reduced energy and sustainability. This paper is an overview of what is happening in Europe and elsewhere and examines the literature to find that latest recommendations in the Code for Lighting issued by the SLL （Society of Light and Lighting） in the UK change previous demands for equal illuminance across a working plane to more specific and demanding criteria. There are recommendations for qualitative metrics and better distribution of light so as to enhance the visual appearance of interiors. European standards are also examined and the LENI （lighting energy numerical indicator） has been found to be a better way of reducing energy than installed load. New LED （light-emitting diode） lamp technology is examined and daylight is discussed in the context of these changing demands. It is found that lighting standards and design are changing for the better but that standards will need to evolve further if they are to ensure good quality lighting.
文摘The conversion of solar energyinto electricity reveals a huge importance in the production of＂clean＂ energy, mainly when applied to decentralized production systems （micro-generation）. However, there is the need to develop and optimize these processes in order to turn it more sustainable in economic and technological scoops. The main purpose of this work is to study the solar energy conversion into electricity through photovoltaic cells, characterizing the process efficiencies. This study intends to evaluate the energetic and exergetic efficiencies defining them as indicators in the formulation ofa sustainability index. All the procedures are in a theoretical scope with an illustrative example in the end of this work.
文摘According to the European Commission, the three challenges that Europe must face related to energy are sustainability, security of supply and reaching an effective competitiveness in the internal energy market. To meet these three challenges, the Commission deems necessary to implement a common energy policy. To this end, it proposed an action plan based on the effective creation of an internal energy market, the solidarity between Member States and security of supply for oil, gas and electricity, Therefore energy security is one of the main concerns, and so one of the priorities, of the new European energy policy proposed by the Commission. This paper tries to show that even though energy has been on the basis of what we call today European Union, it has been extremely complicated to get a common energy policy. Bearing this in mind, energy security has been one of the main areas of consensus that has led EU to the mentioned Commission proposal, and we can see now the first steps of the so much wanted common energy policy.
文摘Athens, a metropolis characterized by agglutination and compactness, but at the same time facing numerous urban and transport issues, saw its population swell during the 20th century which led to extensive urbanization phenomena. This continued urbanization increases profoundly all urban activities with transportation being the key driver in energy consumption. Theories for sustainable cities prerequisite are the integration of a number of acts in order to reduce energy consumption, with mobility being the first consideration among others. The aim of this paper is to critically explore implemented policies and plans as well as forthcoming strategic plans in terms of sustainable mobility as imposed in large scale regeneration plans in contemporary Athens. Research focuses on strategic interventions since the 1980s, such as the Athenian Daktylios （ring road for circulation management） and its later adjustments, the upcoming pedestrianization and unification of the commercial triangle and its subsequent tram line extension as well as the notable implementation of the metropolitan cycling network. Moreover, the discussion takes into consideration the implications of the Greek economic crisis in mobility choices, as aimless travels have been reduced to a minimum, several cars have been abandoned and cyclists seem to tentatively claim some space in the urban environment. What will likely be the next day in the Athenian historic centre？ Considering the transformations that are expected in the immediate future, this research paper explores their potential to enhance urban environment, reduce climate change impacts and amplify resilience.
文摘In this paper we construct a theoretical framework linking governance practiced by some countries to some of their economical, financial, social and environmental variables. To achieve this goal, we selected a sample of data composed of variables from 55 countries, available at the World Bank website. On the other hand, we measured the countries＇ level of governance by the indicator promoted by Transparency International. The period considered in this research was 8 years, from 2000 to 2008. We used the method of linear regression with panel data, in order to investigate statistical relationships among governance and the other variables. We applied the method of simultaneous equations in order to make a robustness test on the first results and findings. The results of the two models converged and showed the existence of a statistical significant relationship between governance and several of the variables investigated. This allows us to infer that the development of the countries govemanee is closely linked with the long-term sustainable development.
文摘Improving daylighting strategy is a mandatory step to achieve visual enjoyment and energy saving in buildings. Psycho, physiological effects and energy performance have to be investigated in order to define a range of different daylighting strategies, thanks to daylighting devices and climate based daylight modeling. Daylighting optimization ensures indoor healthier rooms, reduces electric light consumption and cuts the risk of glare. The best way to achieve these targets is to define users lighting needs, based on visual targets and to draw up some green measures to reduce electricity demands. Involving new climate-based daylight modeling metrics aims at defining proper illumination targets, in order to drastically reduce electrical lights, as well as reducing thermal loads deriving from cooling and HVAC （heating, ventilation and air conditioning） systems.
文摘China＇s energy security situation is increasingly severe. There are many challenges and opportunities in the energy development sector. Bio-fuel has much superiority： abundant resources, product diversification, recycling and increasing rural income. Speeding up bio-fuel development should be a strategic direction for China. In this study we evaluate the relationship between bio-energy utilization and food security using the grey relational analysis method. The results show that China＇ s biomass energy development has caused little negative impact on food security as determined by agricultural production. However, that does not mean China＇s bio-energy can develop in an unrestricted way. Developing bio-energy requires the consideration of many factors, including large investment in the short term and fierce competition from biomass supply.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(21573062,21631004 and 21901065)the Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province(B2018008)+1 种基金the Youth Science and Technology Innovation Team Project of Heilongjiang Province(2018-KYYWF-1593)the University Nursing Program for Young Scholars with Creative Talents in Heilongjiang Province(UNPYSCT-2018009)。
文摘Sn-based electrocatalysts have been gaining increasing attention due to their potential contribution in the conversion of CO2 into HCOOH driven by sustainable energy sources;however,their actual capability to catalyze CO2 reduction reaction(CO2RR)still cannot meet the requirements of commercial-scale applications.Therefore developing Snbased catalyst is of vital importance.Herein,the sheet-like heterophase Sn O2/Sn3O4 with a high density of phase interfaces has been first engineered by a facile hydrothermal process,with Sn3O4 as the dominant phase.The evidences from experiments and theoretical simulation indicate that the charge redistribution and built-in electric field at heterophase interfaces boost CO2 adsorption and HCOO*formation,accelerate the charge transfer between the catalysts and reactants,and ultimately greatly elevate the intrinsic activity of the heterophase Sn O2/Sn3O4 towards CO2 RR.Meanwhile,the in-situ generated porous structure and metal Sn during CO2 RR improve the mass transmission within the interlayer volume and the conductivity of Sn O2/Sn3O4.The heterophase Sn O2/Sn3O4 displays high activity and selectivity for CO2 RR,achieving an improvement in CO2 reduction current density,88.3%Faradaic efficiency of HCOOH conversion at-0.9 VRHE,along with a long-term tolerance in CO2 RR.This study demonstrates that heterophase interface engineering is an efficient strategy to regulate advanced catalysts for different applications.
