Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

“Net-zero emissions” and “sustainability” were often regarded as environmental issues and ethical actions in the past. However, at the conclusion of the UN Climate Change Conference, COP26, net-zero carbon emissions was set as a priority issue for future global governments and organizations. What exactly is net-zero emissions? It does not refer to no emissions at all but, rather, to offsetting anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions through their removal, adding up to zero. The International Energy Agency (IEA) pointed out in the report Net Zero 2050: A Roadmap for the Global Energy Sector, published in 2021, that achieving net-zero emissions in 2050 will depend on the introduction of clean technologies with unprecedented strength before 2030, which will mean greatly expanding solar energy. The installed capacity of photovoltaic and wind power generation, making electricity cleaner, is an important path, and electrification has become a key method for reducing emissions in the entire economy. Milestones that must also be met by 2030 include universal access to energy, zero-carbon readiness for all new buildings, phasing out coal without abatement measures, and large-scale demonstrations of several new clean technologies for heavy industry.

In fact, the technologies needed to significantly reduce emissions by 2030 are now in place, but to achieve net-zero emissions beyond 2050, more than 90% of heavy industrial production must be low-emission production, global electricity generation. Nearly 70% of the total comes from sources such as solar and wind energy. Achieving these conditions will rely on newer technologies that are currently under development, including technologies such as advanced batteries, hydrogen electrolyzer, direct air capture storage, etc. The IEA has called on countries to start investing, now, to meet the goals for 2030. The subsequent construction of infrastructure such as hydrogen energy, carbon capture, utilization, and storage technology (CCUS) will also be required.

At present, governments of various countries have successively formulated carbon management policies and regulations, requiring organizations to be responsible for the carbon emissions caused by them and pay the corresponding fees to reflect the environmental costs caused by carbon emissions on the operating costs of enterprises. Among them, “carbon pricing” is widely used in all walks of life. This so-called carbon pricing involves setting a price for emitted carbon dioxide, with each ton of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) set as the price unit for calculating the cost of carbon emissions. It is hoped that by increasing the cost of greenhouse gas emissions, the use of coal, oil, natural gas, etc., will be reduced while encouraging the development of low-carbon technologies and increasing energy efficiency. For example, Europe, China, Singapore, South Korea, Canada, Tokyo, Japan, and California in the United States all use carbon emission price information as the basis for carbon trading or carbon fee collection. The intangible income (carbon rights trading) of Tesla, the leader in the electric vehicle industry, was valued at $1.46 billion for the fiscal year of 2021.

As “internalization of the external costs” of carbon becomes imperative, companies will also formulate internal carbon pricing mechanisms in order to assess the impact of carbon emissions on themselves, respond to government policies in advance, and prepare for net-zero emissions. Contributions are invited to this present Topic on, but not limited to, the following topics of interest: net-zero emissions; carbon emissions in various industries; solar generation; wind energy; bioenergy; green hydrogen; electric vehicles (EVs); carbon emission reduction technologies; carbon footprint; carbon tax, cap, and trade; carbon capture, utilization, and storage; carbon trading market; Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM); circular economy (CE); carbon rights purchasing; massive electrifications; internal carbon pricing; and enterprise carbon accounting. We welcome both original research articles as well as review articles.

Prof. Dr. Wen-Hsien Tsai
Dr. Chu-Lun Hsieh
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Energies energies	3.0	6.2	2008	16.8 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	6.8	2009	19.7 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Processes processes	2.8	5.1	2013	14.9 Days	CHF 2400	Submit

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Published Papers (17 papers)

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33 pages, 3689 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Research on Multi-Objective Programming Model of Profits and Carbon Emission Reduction in Manufacturing Industry

by Wen-Hsien Tsai and Yi-Han Wu

Energies 2025, 18(6), 1411; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18061411 - 13 Mar 2025

Viewed by 528

Abstract

As the issue of global climate change becomes increasingly severe, governments worldwide have implemented carbon reduction policies, such as carbon taxes and industrial low-carbon transitions, to effectively control total carbon emissions. This study applies a multi-objective programming approach and uses the plastic raw [...] Read more.

As the issue of global climate change becomes increasingly severe, governments worldwide have implemented carbon reduction policies, such as carbon taxes and industrial low-carbon transitions, to effectively control total carbon emissions. This study applies a multi-objective programming approach and uses the plastic raw material manufacturing process in the petrochemical industry as an example to explore how companies can balance profit maximization with minimizing production-related carbon emissions. By integrating Activity-Based Costing (ABC) and the Theory of Constraints (TOC), this study develops a production decision-making model and employs the ε-constraint method to impose carbon emission constraints, analyzing the resulting changes in corporate profitability. The model considers three different policy scenarios: basic carbon tax costs (including the use of renewable energy), continuous incremental progressive carbon tax costs, and discontinuous incremental progressive carbon tax costs. The results indicate that adopting renewable energy effectively reduces carbon emissions during production, while the discontinuous incremental carbon tax model provides better control over emissions. Under different carbon emission constraints, significant variations in optimal profits and production volumes are observed across the models, offering valuable insights for governments and enterprises in formulating carbon reduction strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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26 pages, 4157 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Effect and Path of CBAM on Green Technology Innovation in China’s High-Carbon Manufacturing Industries

by Lin Yang, Zhengnan Lu and Mengsha Shen

Sustainability 2025, 17(5), 2305; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17052305 - 6 Mar 2025

Viewed by 629

Abstract

To cope with global warming, the European Union will implement the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in 2026. CBAM may seriously affect the export of China’s high-carbon manufacturing products. To illustrate this issue, this paper uses DID for analysis, taking CBAM as a [...] Read more.

To cope with global warming, the European Union will implement the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in 2026. CBAM may seriously affect the export of China’s high-carbon manufacturing products. To illustrate this issue, this paper uses DID for analysis, taking CBAM as a shock policy. To further explore the impact pathway, this article utilizes a high-dimensional fixed-effect model for mechanism analysis. The results are as follows: (1) CBAM stimulates the vitality of green technology innovation in the high-carbon manufacturing industry; (2) public environmental concern has a positive moderating effect on green technology innovation; (3) financial support plays a mediating role; (4) green technology innovations are more likely to be influenced by CBAM in the eastern region, the petrochemical, and nonferrous industries. Based on research findings, suggestions are as follows: (1) promote green technology innovation in high-carbon industries; (2) increase financial support for green technology innovation in high-carbon enterprises; (3) guide the public towards green and low-carbon consumption; (4) strengthen policy support for low-carbon development in the central and western regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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24 pages, 1523 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

A Dynamic Approach to Sustainable Knitted Footwear Production in Industry 4.0: Integrating Short-Term Profitability and Long-Term Carbon Efficiency

by Wen-Hsien Tsai and Poching Su

Sustainability 2024, 16(16), 7120; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16167120 - 19 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1536

Abstract

This study proposes a novel approach to support sustainable decision-making in knitted shoe manufacturing by integrating activity-based costing (ABC), the theory of constraints (TOC), and carbon emission costs into a comprehensive mathematical programming model. The model is applied to evaluate the impact of [...] Read more.

This study proposes a novel approach to support sustainable decision-making in knitted shoe manufacturing by integrating activity-based costing (ABC), the theory of constraints (TOC), and carbon emission costs into a comprehensive mathematical programming model. The model is applied to evaluate the impact of different carbon tax and carbon trading policies on the profitability and product mix of a knitted shoe company in Taiwan. The model considers single-period and multi-period scenarios, as well as continuous and discontinuous carbon tax functions, with and without carbon trading. The results show that a continuous carbon tax leads to higher profitability in single-period models, while a continuous carbon tax function combined with carbon trading yields the highest profits in multi-period models. Reducing the carbon emission cap is found to be more effective in curbing emissions than raising carbon taxes. This research contributes to sustainable operations management by providing a holistic approach that integrates cost control, profit optimization, and environmental sustainability in the context of Industry 4.0. The findings offer valuable insights for footwear manufacturers in making strategic decisions and for governments in designing effective carbon tax and emission trading schemes to drive industrial transformation towards a low-carbon economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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27 pages, 658 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Advancing Decarbonization Efforts in the Glass Manufacturing Industry through Mathematical Optimization and Management Accounting

by Wen-Hsien Tsai, Shuo-Chieh Chang and Xiang-Yu Li

Processes 2024, 12(6), 1078; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061078 - 24 May 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1671

Abstract

This study explores the integration of activity-based costing (ABC) and the theory of constraints (TOC) with carbon tax policies to drive decarbonization in the Taiwanese glass industry. Employing a mathematical programming approach, four distinct models are developed to assess the impact of different [...] Read more.

This study explores the integration of activity-based costing (ABC) and the theory of constraints (TOC) with carbon tax policies to drive decarbonization in the Taiwanese glass industry. Employing a mathematical programming approach, four distinct models are developed to assess the impact of different carbon tax structures, carbon trading mechanisms, and recycled material utilization on corporate profitability and carbon emissions. The findings reveal that strategically applying ABC and the TOC with well-designed carbon tax policies can effectively incentivize emission reduction while maintaining industrial competitiveness. The models incorporating carbon trading and tax allowances demonstrate the potential for creating win–win situations, where companies can increase profitability by investing in cleaner technologies and processes. This study contributes to the literature on sustainable manufacturing and provides actionable insights for policymakers and industry leaders seeking to implement effective carbon pricing mechanisms that drive economic growth and environmental sustainability in tandem. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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33 pages, 15091 KiB  

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Analyzing Geospatial Cost Variability of Hybrid Solar–Gravity Storage System in High-Curtailment Suburban Areas

by Soumya Basu, Tetsuhito Hoshino and Hideyuki Okumura

Energies 2024, 17(9), 2162; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092162 - 30 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1522

Abstract

The increased decentralization of renewable energy has increased curtailment rates in stagnating demand zones, increasing the levelized cost of energy (LCOE). The geographically dynamic nature of gravity energy storage (GES) is emerging in the field of mechanical energy storage, over pumped hydro. However, [...] Read more.

The increased decentralization of renewable energy has increased curtailment rates in stagnating demand zones, increasing the levelized cost of energy (LCOE). The geographically dynamic nature of gravity energy storage (GES) is emerging in the field of mechanical energy storage, over pumped hydro. However, GES costs vary geospatially, specifically in decentralized suburban areas, due to the impact of urban socioeconomics. This study aims to find a mathematical approximation of a cost-optimized location for suburban Solar–GES hybrid systems in curtailment-prone areas. A multi-parameterization model mathematically programmed land, transmission, supply chain and excavation costs into geospatial matrix approximations for suburban areas of 2500 km² in Fukuoka and Ibaraki in Japan. It was found that SPV-GES location-dependent costs were mainly affected by distance from the city’s economic center and flat plains in suburbs, and supply chain and transmission costs optimized the location-dependent cost for GES at a specific point. It was also found that flat terrains were more economical than mountainous terrains due to high GES supply chain costs. With GES found to be cost-competitive compared to other storage technologies in Japan, this study reveals that GES introduction benefits the LCOE of suburban, decentralized SPV when curtailment is >50% irrespective of terrain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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16 pages, 4795 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Sealing Mechanism of Split-Liner High-Pressure Hydrogen Storage Cylinders

by Guxing Tong, Xiaolei Zhu, Yang Liu, Fuxiang Lv and Xiaofeng Lu

Processes 2024, 12(3), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12030554 - 12 Mar 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1552

Abstract

Hydrogen storage is a crucial factor that limits the development of hydrogen energy. This paper proposes using a split liner for the inner structure of a hydrogen storage cylinder. A self-tightening seal is employed to address the sealing problem between the head and [...] Read more.

Hydrogen storage is a crucial factor that limits the development of hydrogen energy. This paper proposes using a split liner for the inner structure of a hydrogen storage cylinder. A self-tightening seal is employed to address the sealing problem between the head and the barrel. The feasibility of this structure is demonstrated through hydraulic pressure experiments. The influence laws of the O-ring compression rate, the distance from the straight edge section of the head to the sealing groove, and the thickness of the head on the sealing performance of gas cylinders in this sealing structure are revealed using finite elements analysis. The results show that when the gas cylinder is subjected to medium internal pressure, the maximum contact stress on the O-ring extrusion deformation sealing surface is greater than the medium pressure. There is sufficient contact width, that is, the arc length of the part where the stress on the O-ring contact surface is greater than the medium pressure, so that it can form a good sealing condition. At the same time, increasing the compression ratio of the O-ring and the head’s thickness will help improve the sealing performance, and reducing the distance from the straight edge section of the head to the sealing groove will also improve the sealing performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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34 pages, 1963 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Equilibrium between Environmental and Economic Objectives: An Activity-Based Costing Approach Application for Carbon Emissions Management in the Aluminum Alloy Wheel Industry

by Wen-Hsien Tsai, Shuo-Chieh Chang and Yuchun Teng

Energies 2024, 17(6), 1331; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17061331 - 10 Mar 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2067

Abstract

In the face of the increasingly dire threat of global climate change, reducing carbon emissions has become an urgent priority for governments and corporations worldwide. The aluminum alloy wheel manufacturing industry bears an even heavier burden for emission mitigation due to its high [...] Read more.

In the face of the increasingly dire threat of global climate change, reducing carbon emissions has become an urgent priority for governments and corporations worldwide. The aluminum alloy wheel manufacturing industry bears an even heavier burden for emission mitigation due to its high production volume, complex processes, and proportionally higher carbon footprint. With impending carbon taxes and trading policies looming, the industry urgently needs to strike a balance between maximizing profits and minimizing carbon emissions. Leveraging real-world industry data, this research develops four green Activity-Based Costing (ABC) models and utilizes optimization software to compare the following scenarios: non-continuous carbon tax, carbon tax with trading, tiered tax with exemptions, and exemptions combined with trading. Results demonstrate that integrating carbon trading and targeted tax reductions can improve corporate financial positions without severely compromising environmental goals. Although identifying optimal balance points remains a highly complex process, this study equips enterprises and policymakers with quantitative tools to navigate fluctuating carbon regulatory environments. As national policies progress, more multifaceted dynamic carbon tax models will likely provide more profound insights for sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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22 pages, 3228 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Production Decision Model for the Cement Industry in Pursuit of Carbon Neutrality: Analysis of the Impact of Carbon Tax and Carbon Credit Costs

by Wen-Hsien Tsai and Wei-Hong Lin

Sustainability 2024, 16(6), 2251; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16062251 - 7 Mar 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2109

Abstract

One of the solutions to achieve the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 is to try to reduce the carbon emission by using the carbon tax or carbon credit (carbon right). This paper examines the impact of carbon taxes and carbon credit costs [...] Read more.

One of the solutions to achieve the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 is to try to reduce the carbon emission by using the carbon tax or carbon credit (carbon right). This paper examines the impact of carbon taxes and carbon credit costs on the cement industry, focusing on ESG indicators and corporate profits. Utilizing Activity-Based Costing and the Theory of Constraints, a production decision model is developed and analyzed using mathematical programming. The paper categorizes carbon tax models into continuous and discontinuous progressive tax rates, taking into account potential government policies like emission tax exemptions and carbon trading. It finds that reducing emission caps is more effective than increasing carbon tax rates in curbing emissions. These insights can assist governments in policy formulation and provide a reference framework for establishing carbon tax systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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24 pages, 1620 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Decision Model for Circular Economy towards Net Zero Emissions under Industry 4.0

by Chu-Lun Hsieh and Wen-Hsien Tsai

Processes 2023, 11(12), 3412; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11123412 - 12 Dec 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1768

Abstract

The world produces more than 20 billion pairs of shoes every year, and the greenhouse gas emissions of the shoe industry account for 1.4% of the world. This research, taking the knitted footwear industry as an example, combines the concepts of mathematical programming [...] Read more.

The world produces more than 20 billion pairs of shoes every year, and the greenhouse gas emissions of the shoe industry account for 1.4% of the world. This research, taking the knitted footwear industry as an example, combines the concepts of mathematical programming and carbon emissions to discuss the impact of a circular economy sustainable decision-making model (including four carbon tax functions) to achieve net zero emissions under Industry 4.0 on company profits and product structure. The findings suggest that using activity-based costing to measure the attribution of various costs during process improvement allows companies to more accurately capture the carbon cost of producing each pair of shoes. In addition, under the trend of global efforts to reduce carbon emissions, if the price of carbon taxes or carbon rights is not enough to affect companies’ profits, companies will not pay attention to the impact of carbon emissions. To ensure a sustainable production model, the shoe industry should work with brand customers to reduce the effects of products on the environment, coordinate with brand customers’ sustainable development milestones, and formulate a carbon reduction path to achieve zero carbon emission growth goals. Future research can apply these research models, incorporating the carbon tax and carbon rights proposed by this paper to the other industries. In addition, the research also can be extended to explore the consumer behavior for the newly developed knitted footwear. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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18 pages, 902 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Towards Carbon Neutrality and Circular Economy in the Glass Industry by Using the Production Decision Model

by Chu-Lun Hsieh and Wen-Hsien Tsai

Energies 2023, 16(22), 7570; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16227570 - 14 Nov 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2086

Abstract

In the modern age, where global warming is intensifying year by year, carbon reduction has long been an issue that countries all over the world must pay attention to. Therefore, governments have established a carbon tax and trading system to control the total [...] Read more.

In the modern age, where global warming is intensifying year by year, carbon reduction has long been an issue that countries all over the world must pay attention to. Therefore, governments have established a carbon tax and trading system to control the total carbon emissions of each country. According to the European Container Glass Federation (FEVE), every 10% recycled waste glass can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 5%. Recycling waste glass will not only save the cost of raw materials but also make a significant contribution to sustainable development. This study uses the circular economy concept in the glass industry to recycle waste glass. It combines activity-based costing (ABC) and the Theory of Constraints (TOCs) to establish a production decision-making model, including carbon tax and trading. The objectives of this study are to solve the problem through mathematical programming to explore the impact of the carbon tax and carbon rights cost on corporate profits and to provide the government with the results as a reference for establishing a carbon tax system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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30 pages, 1137 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Balancing Profit and Environmental Sustainability with Carbon Emissions Management and Industry 4.0 Technologies

by Wen-Hsien Tsai

Energies 2023, 16(17), 6175; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16176175 - 25 Aug 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1706

Abstract

The environmental pollution issue in the textile industry has gained significant attention recently as one of the world’s most polluting industries. This paper aims to optimize product mixes for profit, tax, carbon, and resource efficiency. It employs mathematical models based on Activity-Based Costing [...] Read more.

The environmental pollution issue in the textile industry has gained significant attention recently as one of the world’s most polluting industries. This paper aims to optimize product mixes for profit, tax, carbon, and resource efficiency. It employs mathematical models based on Activity-Based Costing (ABC) and the Theory of Constraints (TOC) to address carbon emissions, waste reuse, and energy recovery. Industry 4.0 technologies are integrated with real-time sensing and detection in production, and data are analyzed in the ERP system for optimal responses to production issues. The study explores different carbon emission cost models, including balancing environmental protection and green production with maximizing corporate profits. Additionally, a new environmentally friendly brick is proposed, combining cement with emitted coal slag to create a cost-effective and eco-friendly product. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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19 pages, 2299 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

A Study of Carbon Emission Driving Factors of a Metal Chemical Enterprise in China Based on the LMDI Model

by Li Tan, Zao Feng, Guangfa Zheng and Chaoqun Li

Processes 2023, 11(8), 2230; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11082230 - 25 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1666

Abstract

The chemical industry is a typical high-carbon emitting industry, and achieving the goal of net zero emissions by 2050 is challenging. Therefore, metal chemical enterprises have to explore a special path of low-carbon development. This article conducted a case study on a Chinese [...] Read more.

The chemical industry is a typical high-carbon emitting industry, and achieving the goal of net zero emissions by 2050 is challenging. Therefore, metal chemical enterprises have to explore a special path of low-carbon development. This article conducted a case study on a Chinese metal chemical production enterprise with a processing scale of 28,000 t/year. Starting from the analysis of energy consumption carbon emissions, this article used available statistical data at the enterprise level to build a carbon emission estimation model for the enterprise combining different emission categories. Moreover, we also calculated the carbon emissions and carbon emission intensity of the enterprise from 2014 to 2022. Further quantitative analyses on the impact of production scale, energy efficiency, energy structure, and emission coefficient on carbon increment were also conducted using a logarithmic mean divisia index (LMDI) model. The results showed that the reduction in carbon emissions of the enterprise during the research period was due to the improvement of energy efficiency, while the production scale and energy structure served as important driving factors. Based on the results, this article proposes some policy suggestions on the future direction and focus of the enterprise’s carbon reduction work. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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21 pages, 2240 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Period Production Optimization Decision Models under Net-Zero Transformation

by Wen-Hsien Tsai

Processes 2023, 11(5), 1439; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11051439 - 9 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2194

Abstract

Facing the goal of net-zero emissions in 2050, the EU will pilot the European Carbon Boundary Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in 2023 and formally implement it in 2026. The scope of control includes cement, electricity, fertilizer, steel, aluminum, and five high-carbon emission industries. In [...] Read more.

Facing the goal of net-zero emissions in 2050, the EU will pilot the European Carbon Boundary Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in 2023 and formally implement it in 2026. The scope of control includes cement, electricity, fertilizer, steel, aluminum, and five high-carbon emission industries. In response to global net-zero emissions and CBAM trends, net-zero transformation is not only an environmental issue but also a major economic issue related to Taiwan’s aluminum wheel frame industry. This study aims to bridge this gap by developing novel decision-making models that consider the unique requirements and constraints of net-zero transition, leading to more efficient and sustainable production optimization strategies based on activity-based costing (ABC). This study proposes four possible multi-period production optimization decision-making models (carbon tax and credit combination models) under the net-zero emission transformation of the aluminum wheel frame industry, and it compares the models to test their differences. The results of the study point out that, due to the different roles of carbon tax and carbon credit, the profit and product structure under the net-zero transformation will be very different. Enterprises should formulate carbon emission reduction targets and carbon inventories as soon as possible. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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14 pages, 1660 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Carbon Footprint of a Large Yellow Croaker Mariculture Models Based on Life-Cycle Assessment

by Jingyi Liu, Feng Gui, Qian Zhou, Huiwen Cai, Kaida Xu and Sheng Zhao

Sustainability 2023, 15(8), 6658; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15086658 - 14 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2411

Abstract

According to the life-cycle assessment method, in this study, we took the traditional plate cage (TPC) mariculture and deep water wind wave-resistant cage (DWWWRC) mariculture of large yellow croaker in China as the research object. We counted and calculated the carbon footprint of [...] Read more.

According to the life-cycle assessment method, in this study, we took the traditional plate cage (TPC) mariculture and deep water wind wave-resistant cage (DWWWRC) mariculture of large yellow croaker in China as the research object. We counted and calculated the carbon footprint of the whole life cycle of large yellow croaker cultured in Zhoushan. By analyzing and comparing the advantages and disadvantages of the two according to a perspective of carbon emissions, we found that the carbon footprint of DWWWRC was smaller than that of TPC, which is more suitable for China’s large yellow croaker mariculture. We proposed corresponding measures to reduce carbon emissions, such as using clean energy, extending cage life, and improving feed utilization. This study fills the gap in the current research direction of the carbon footprint of large yellow croaker farming in China and provides strong technical support for the sustainable development of China’s large yellow croaker cage farming industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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26 pages, 2677 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Legacies of a Climate Positive Olympic Games: An Assessment of Carbon Offsets and Renewable Energy for Brisbane 2032

by Anthony P. Heynen and Prabhakaran Vanaraja Ambeth

Sustainability 2023, 15(2), 1207; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15021207 - 9 Jan 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 7187

Abstract

Brisbane, Australia will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032—the first to be contractually obliged to be Climate Positive. This commitment can be achieved through a combination of two levers: emission reduction measures and carbon offsets. The objective of this study is [...] Read more.

Brisbane, Australia will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032—the first to be contractually obliged to be Climate Positive. This commitment can be achieved through a combination of two levers: emission reduction measures and carbon offsets. The objective of this study is to determine which combination of these levers is likely to maximise sustainability and its social, economic, and ecological dimensions. Based on these dimensions and the perspective of technology determinism, a novel sustainability assessment model is developed. Then, through a document analysis, this study uses emissions data to analyse and evaluate three different combinations of carbon offsets and renewable energy. Results showed that a higher reliance on carbon offsets resulted in poorer sustainability outcomes for this mega-event. The most sustainable scenario, involving large-scale investment in renewable energy infrastructure, involved significant cost implications but is likely to create greater legacy outcomes. Key recommendations include improving the governance and socialisation of Climate Positive delivery, and increasing partnerships with the private sector. Doing so will help enhance the authenticity and legacy of Climate Positive commitments for host regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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27 pages, 1538 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Tell Me What You Waste and I’ll Tell You Who You Are: An Eight-Country Comparison of Consumers’ Food Waste Habits

by Elisa Iori, Matteo Masotti, Luca Falasconi, Enzo Risso, Andrea Segrè and Matteo Vittuari

Sustainability 2023, 15(1), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15010430 - 27 Dec 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3529

Abstract

Using an original survey conducted in eight countries in 2021 (Canada, China, Germany, Italy, Russia, Spain, the UK, and the USA), this study explored the relationship between household food waste and dietary habits through a cross-country comparative perspective. In total, 8000 questionnaires were [...] Read more.

Using an original survey conducted in eight countries in 2021 (Canada, China, Germany, Italy, Russia, Spain, the UK, and the USA), this study explored the relationship between household food waste and dietary habits through a cross-country comparative perspective. In total, 8000 questionnaires were recorded from samples representative of the adult population of each country through an online survey conducted between the 13th and the 24th of August. The questionnaires were developed from the Waste Watcher International Observatory on Food and Sustainability, an international study of the social, behavioral, and lifestyle dynamics behind household food waste. The relationships between the per capita self-reported amount of food waste (expressed in kilocalories) and self-declared dietary habits (traditional, healthy and sustainable, vegetarian, smart, and confused) were estimated using multiple linear regression models. The results showed that smart diets are associated with higher values of food waste in Canada, Spain, the UK, and the USA. Vegetarian diets are associated with lower food waste values in China, Germany, the UK, and the USA, but not in Italy, Russia, and Spain. The share of the population adopting a smart diet was, on average, 2.7% of the sample; therefore, interventions for food waste reduction should focus on these specific types of consumers, who are often associated with larger amounts of food waste. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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20 pages, 1209 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Determinants of Green Purchase Intention: The Roles of Green Enjoyment, Green Intrinsic Motivation, and Green Brand Love

by Yu-Hsien Lin

Sustainability 2023, 15(1), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15010132 - 22 Dec 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5383

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship among green enjoyment, green brand love, green intrinsic motivation, and green purchase intention. Data were collected from 26 August to 16 September 2022, through a questionnaire survey distributed online, and quantitative instruments were applied to analyze the data. [...] Read more.

This study investigated the relationship among green enjoyment, green brand love, green intrinsic motivation, and green purchase intention. Data were collected from 26 August to 16 September 2022, through a questionnaire survey distributed online, and quantitative instruments were applied to analyze the data. A total of 302 randomly selected samples from consumers with experience of green consumption were analyzed. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and confirmatory factor analysis. The results revealed that the content, discriminant, and convergent validity and reliability of the model were satisfactory. Global model analysis of green intrinsic motivation revealed acceptable results. Moreover, structural equation modeling indicated a satisfactory model fit to the standard sample data. Finally, the study revealed that green intrinsic motivation positively influences green enjoyment, green brand love, and green purchase intention. Green enjoyment positively affects green brand love and green purchase intention. Furthermore, green enjoyment and green brand love mediate the positive relationship between green intrinsic motivation and green purchase intention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Multiple Roads to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050)

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