Publications
EURECA-PRO’s research agenda aims to develop solutions to combat negative global environmental change. The results of the research activities flow into the teaching of EURECA-PRO through problem-based learning, and through the open access/science approach, a lot of content developed is made available globally, openly and free of charge. The following collection shows publications of the EURECA-PRO consortium and the corresponding research was conducted in accordance with the research agenda of the European University on Responsible Consumption and Production.
Below you will find publications about EURECA-PRO and publications related to the research Lighthouse Missions of EURECA-PRO
Publications about EURECA-PRO
Publications about EURECA-PRO
Publications about EURECA-PRO
Title
Teaching and Research in the Digital World
Authors
Michail G. Lagoudakis*, Maria Gkizeli, Afroditi Fotiou, Dina Fragkedaki & Sarah Kollnig
Abstract
Academia has entered a new teaching, learning, and researching era: an era in which more and more services turn to digital and online forms, distances are eliminated, geographical borders disappear, and telepresence becomes common. Though accelerated by the pandemic of the last two years, this transition has been in progress for some time. The importance of creatively nurturing students, academic, and scientific staff in the realms of education, practical knowledge, skills, and competence growth has only increased. Investing in best practices in this digital world, both in teaching and in research, supports a connection between the academic world and society at large, raises societal, environmental awareness, and promotes innovation and excellence at all levels. Each of these considerations plays an important role for the EURECA-PRO European University Alliance, a group of eight partner universities from different European countries working together to establish a modern, diverse European institution. This article focuses on how EURECA-PRO partners collaborate to create a digital campus that supports education, research, and innovation. These efforts rely on the Work Package 4 (WP4) and are led by the Technical University of Crete (TUC).
Publication Link
Citation
Lagoudakis, M.G., Gkizeli, M., Fotiou, A. et al., Teaching and Research in the Digital World. Berg Huettenmaenn Monatsh 167, 489–494 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00501-022-01283-7
Title
Hasselt University’s Roadmap to a European University
Authors
Elke Van Hellemont* & Sadia Vancauwenbergh
Abstract
Hasselt University (UHasselt) recently joined EURECA-PRO, an eight-university partnership spanning seven European countries working to create a European University on Sustainable Consumption and Production. EURECA-PRO pursues sustainability research focused on the processes of resource extraction, production, and consumption in order to investigate the entire value chain of materials and products. EURECA-PRO partners and UHasselt have similar research expertise in the field of sustainability, present complementary educational profiles, and share multiple strategic policy priorities, such as inclusivity, lifelong learning, sustainability, and internationalisation. In what follows, we outline our motives and hopes in joining EURECA-PRO: the enhancement of international staff/student mobility, increased academic collaboration, further development of research/education innovation, and a positive spill over effects for UHasselt’s wider academic and geographical community. As a relatively new partner, UHasselt will invest substantially in communication strategies and initiatives to build connections between UHasselt staff/students and partnering institutions. UHasselt appreciates EURECA-PRO’s accomplishments to date and acknowledges the facilitation of UHasselt’s entrance into the alliance. Overall, UHasselt considers EURECA-PRO a valuable platform to enhance research, teaching, and public engagement on topics already a part of UHasselt’s DNA. At the same time, we believe that Hasselt University has meaningful contributions to make to EURECA-PRO, for example through expertise in international programmes, specialised and rare infrastructure (eg. Ecotron) and an established reputation as a leading research institute and teaching hub on topics, such as circular economy and energy transition, residing at the heart of the EURECA-PRO Alliance.
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Citation
Van Hellemont, E., Vancauwenbergh, S., Hasselt University’s Roadmap to a European University. Berg Huettenmaenn Monatsh 167, 472–476 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00501-022-01279-3
Title
Development of a Joint Third Mission Strategy – Challenges and Approaches
Authors
Synnöve Hochstein*, Stefanie Walter & Maria Speck
Abstract
In addition to offering education and conducting research, transferring knowledge from academia to society is the third core task of universities, their so-called Third Mission. A framework for transferring research results from science to society and integrating everyday problems into scientific research is a crucial starting point for academics seeking to generate solutions to socio-economic problems. At the beginning of the European University Alliance EURECA-PRO cooperation there were disparate understandings of Third Mission; as a result, related research and activities were variably conducted. Given that a common Third Mission strategy is a fundamental requirement for the establishment of the European University Alliance, EURECA-PRO is focused on all partner universities coming to a common Third Mission understanding. One way to pursue this goal is presenting EURECA-PRO scientific research from each university in video form. These videos have a clear and targeted focus on being relevant to everyday life; initial results show that this kind of science communication is both well accepted by scientists and supportive of developing a common Third Mission understanding within EURECA-PRO.
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Citation
Hochstein, S., Walter, S. & Speck, M., Development of a Joint Third Mission Strategy – Challenges and Approaches. Berg Huettenmaenn Monatsh 167, 495–499 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00501-022-01278-4
Title
The Humboldtian Model of Higher Education and its Significance for the European University on Responsible Consumption and Production
Authors
Jan C. Bongaerts*
Abstract
This contribution describes the origins and essential characteristics of the Humboldtian Model of Higher Education. It also shows how this model can be integrated into the European University on Responsible Consumption and Production (EURECA-PRO). Wilhelm von Humboldt and his team developed the innovative Humboldtian Model of Higher Education in Humboldt’s native Prussia between 1809 and 1810 in order to totally reform the education system. After founding the University of Berlin in 1810 and with the support of leading young scientists cum professors, Humboldt intended to implement this new model of tertiary education. The Humboldtian Model requires that universities govern themselves, have academic freedom, and integrate education and research. As a consequence, science is unified and all academic disciplines are present within a given university. This model also calls for university-wide interaction and for all university members to communicate such that students become integrated as researching learners and learning researchers through close co-operation with their teachers. With the emergence of the neoliberal university model in the 1990s, key elements of the Humboldtian Model have been complemented by university obligations to meet expectations from government, the business community, and society at large with regard to the usefulness and benefit of university research and educational outputs. This contribution concludes by discussing the potential of implementing the Humboldtian Model of Higher Education within EURECA-PRO.
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Citation
Bongaerts, J.C., The Humboldtian Model of Higher Education and its Significance for the European University on Responsible Consumption and Production. Berg Huettenmaenn Monatsh 167, 500–507 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00501-022-01280-w
Title
Soft Skills and STEM Education: Vision of the European University EURECA-PRO
Authors
Ainhoa Villán-Vallejo, Abir Zitouni, Paula García-Llamas, María Fernández-Raga, Adriana Suárez-Corona & Roberto Baelo*
Abstract
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines play an increasingly important role in the current socio-economic context. Higher education systems are working to equip students with the appropriate skills and competencies to cope with current demands and, in particular, to join a labour market strongly informed by STEM disciplines. Many such skills are non-disciplinary and are known as transversal or soft skills. Soft skills, including interpersonal and socio-emotional skills, are highly sought after in the labour market. These skills not only reflect personal abilities but also draw on concepts, such as social responsibility, creativity, ethics, and emotional intelligence. The European University on Responsible Consumption and Production (EURECA-PRO) seeks to foster soft skills development in our activities and curricula.
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Citation
Villán-Vallejo, A., Zitouni, A., García-Llamas, P. et al., Soft Skills and STEM Education: Vision of the European University EURECA-PRO. Berg Huettenmaenn Monatsh 167, 485–488 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00501-022-01275-7
Title
Education and Study Concepts at the European University Alliance EURECA-PRO
Authors
Carsten Drebenstedt, Julia Sishchuk*, Luke Palmer, Jan Bongaerts & Kirstin Kleeberg
Abstract
Education is an essential core task of EURECA-PRO and consists of designing and implementing new study programmes at all levels (Bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctoral), developing new, supplementary modules and promoting innovative teaching methods. While spreading and encouraging excellence in learning and teaching is a fundamental part of all higher education institutions, it is especially important for EURECA-PRO in the development of new programmes, courses, and educational concepts across all partner universities. This development presents an opportunity to cement and enhance excellence in teaching and learning across the alliance and to prioritise students’ educational experience.
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Citation
Drebenstedt, C., Sishchuk, J., Palmer, L. et al., Education and Study Concepts at the European University Alliance EURECA-PRO. Berg Huettenmaenn Monatsh 167, 477–484 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00501-022-01281-9
Title
The (R)Evolution of European Education Policy: European Higher Education Alliances
Authors
Peter Moser*, Susanne Feiel & Volkmar Kircher
Abstract
This article describes the development of Europe-wide higher education and research. The European Higher Education Area (EHEA) is an educational initiative of the European Commission designed to increase staff and student mobility and improve the employability of graduates. In addition, the ERASMUS programme has enabled millions of students to study abroad. In the field of research, the European Union is pursuing the vision of a unified European Research Area (ERA), open to the whole world and allowing the free transfer of researchers, scientific knowledge, and technologies. To link ERA and EHEA, European University Networks have been established to develop “European Joint Degrees” to educate highly qualified future graduates with European values. The European University on REsponsible Consumption And PROduction (EURECA-PRO) has the ambitious goal of not only strengthening the EHEA and ERA but also of mapping the circularity of materials and material flows, including their environmental impacts, in teaching and research.
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Citation
Moser, P., Feiel, S. & Kircher, V., The (R)Evolution of European Education Policy: European Higher Education Alliances. Berg Huettenmaenn Monatsh 167, 457–461 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00501-022-01276-6
Title
Eight Become One: the EURECA-PRO University Network
Authors
Volkmar Kircher*, Susanne Feiel, Jan C. Bongaerts, Julia Sishchuk, Carsten Drebenstedt, Michail Lagoudakis, Konstantina Fragkedaki, Paula García-Llamas, Adriana Suárez-Corona, María Fernández-Raga, Roberto Baelo-Álvarez, Marcin Górski, Marek Pawełczyk, Synnöve Hochstein, Stefanie Walter, Maria Speck, Oana Ravas, Elke Van Hellemont & Sadia Vancauwenbergh
Abstract
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12 is the foundation of the European University on Responsible Consumption and Production consortium (EURECA-PRO). This article introduces the eight EURECA-PRO partner universities: Montanuniversität Leoben (Austria), Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg (Germany), Technical University of Crete (Greece), University of León (Spain), Silesian University of Technology (Poland), Mittweida University of Applied Sciences (Germany), University of Petroşani (Romania), and Hasselt University (Belgium). In addition, each university’s role within the alliance and unique research and study programmes are outlined. The synergy created by EURECA-PRO enables the pursuit of an ambitious research agenda with five research “Lighthouse Missions” as well as the implementation of joint study programmes.
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Citation
Kircher, V., Feiel, S., Bongaerts, J.C. et al. Eight Become One: the EURECA-PRO University Network. Berg Huettenmaenn Monatsh 167, 462–471 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00501-022-01286-4
Title
Research Dimension of the European University on Responsible Consumption and Production—EURECA-PRO
Authors
Volkmar Kircher*, Alexander Griebler, Susanne Feiel & Peter Moser
Abstract
Global environmental changes due to technological progress, the growing population, and the demand for more and more resources are affecting the natural regulatory circuits that control the Earth’s ecosystem. Preventing excessive environmental stress is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity. The signing of the Paris Climate Targets as well as the Sustainable Development Goals set the course for a departure from the current economic and production system. As a contribution to these challenges, the European University on REsponsible Consumption And PROduction (EURECA-PRO) was founded under the umbrella of the European Commission and the Erasmus program. Apart from a strategic education agenda, EURECA-PRO also defined an ambitious research agenda with currently five lighthouse topics which aim at the development of solutions to fight negative global environmental changes. EURECA-PRO uses synergies of a network of seven universities and a series of associated partners from different stakeholder groups.
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Citation
Kircher, V., Griebler, A., Feiel, S., Moser, P., Forschungsdimension der European University on Responsible Consumption and Production – EURECA-PRO. Berg Huettenmaenn Monatsh 167, 187–192 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00501-022-01220-8
Title
EURECA-PRO: The European University on Responsible Consumption and Production
Authors
Pichler Lisa*, Jasmin Egger, Susanne Feiel, Volkmar Kircher & Agnieszka Kosciuszko
Abstract
The European Commission (EC) called for proposals to form European University Alliances (EUA) in 2019 and 2020 to promote Europe’s universities competitiveness in the world and strengthen the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and European Research Area (ERA). With the objective to create a global educational core hub on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 “responsible consumption and production”, a consortium of seven universities, led by Montanuniversität Leoben, received a three-year funding in 2020 for the development of a European University on REsponsible Consumption And PROduction (EURECA-PRO).
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Citation
Pichler, L., Egger, J., Feiel, S., Kircher, V. and Kosciuszko, A., EURECA-PRO: The European University on Responsible Consumption and Production. Berg Huettenmaenn Monatsh 166, 500–504 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00501-021-01149-4
Title
EURECA-PRO, The European University on Responsible Consumption and Production: An Alliance for Sustainability
Authors
Susanne Feiel*, Sabrina Frühauf, Lisa Pichler, Volkmar Kircher, Agnieszka Kosciuszko & Jasmin Egger
Abstract
In recent years, the implementation of sustainability has gained importance in all areas of global societal development as science has proven that climate change is a human induced and inevitable future circumstance if nothing is done to avert it. With strategies and frameworks such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the EU Green Deal, it has become clear which direction research and education will take in the future, towards an interdisciplinary and excellence-based approach to systemically solve today’s societal challenges for a better ecological and social future. Innovation, education, research and societal cooperation, known as the knowledge square, are key factors in reaching these goals. The framework of the European Universities offers an opportunity that can integrate all these factors, in promoting cooperation across borders, languages, and disciplines thereby being an ideal vehicle to address societal challenges of our time and related skills and knowledge shortages faced in Europe. Within the ERASMUS+ and H2020 Framework Programmed seven higher education institutions located in six different EU member states, namely Montanuniversität Leoben (Austria), Technische Universitaet Bergakademie Freiberg (Germany), University of Petrosani (Romania), University of León (Spain), Technical University of Crete (Greece), Silesian University of Technology (Poland) and Mittweida University of Applied Sciences (Germany) joined forces and created a strong and unique European University in the field of Responsible Consumption and Production as defined in Sustainable Development Goal 12 of the United Nations: EURECA-PRO – The European University on REsponsible Consumption And PROduction. Its mission is a two-fold one: on the one hand, it aims at contributing creatively to the European Higher Education Transformation Agenda to stimulate seamless education and cooperation within Europe. On the other hand, it aims at becoming the European core excellence hub for responsible consumption and production converging all European and global activities, be it scientific, industrial or social, as well as all stakeholders in this field. Since Fall 2020 the consortium works on its goal to ultimately create a research and education agenda that systemically integrates all necessary interdisciplinary knowledge (technological, ecological, policy, economic, societal aspects etc.) to solve today’s pressing questions regarding consumption and production patterns and the transfer of solutions into society and industry. This is done by taking into consideration new technologies and processes that integrate material and resource flows towards responsible impact flows as well as complimentarily focusing on consumption behaviors and the factor human being in relation to these flows, thus putting the manifold influence factors in harmony to each other and the surrounding environment.
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Citation
Feiel, S., Frühauf, S., Pichler, L., Kircher, V., Kosciuszko, A., Egger, J., EURECA-PRO: The European university on responsible consumption and production: an alliance for sustainability. Proceedings of the 20th European Round Table on Sustainable Consumption and Production, Graz., S. 153–167 (2021). https://doi.org/DOI: 10.3217/978-3-85125-842-4-21
Title
EURECA-PRO, The European University Alliance on Responsible Consumption and Production
Authors
Peter Moser*, Susanne Feiel, Klaus-Dieter Barbknecht, Evan Diamadopoulos, Arkadiusz Mężyk, Roberto Baelo, Sorin Mihai Radu, Ludwig Hilmer & Konstantinos Komnitsas
Abstract
In the frame of the ERASMUS+ Framework Programme seven higher education institutions located in six different European Union (EU) member states, namely the University of Leoben (Austria), the Technical University Freiberg (Germany), the University of Petrosani (Romania), the University of León (Spain), the Technical University of Crete (Greece), the Silesian University of Technology (Poland) and the Mittweida University of Applied Sciences (Germany) joined forces and aim to create a strong and unique European University in the field of Responsible Consumption and Production (RCP): EURECA-PRO, https://www.eurecapro.eu/. This university has a two-fold societal and planetary mission. On the one hand, it will holistically contribute to the very important issue of RCP under Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12, and on the other hand, it will effectively contribute to the transformation of the European Higher Education Area complimentarily to SDG 4. EURECA-PRO started on November 1, 2020 and by 2025 aims to be well-known throughout Europe for its competence as an educational core hub and as interdisciplinary research and innovation leader in qualitative environmental and social framework development for sustainable consumption and production of goods as well as for responsible systems design. By 2040 EURECA-PRO aims to be the global educational core hub and interdisciplinary research and innovation leader in qualitative environmental and social framework development for RCP of resources and goods. This will comprise technological, ecological, policy, economic and societal aspects and their transfer into the society and industry. Staff and future graduates will acquire sustainable, interdisciplinary, intercultural and systemic thinking engrained in their natural way of operation, fostering a prosperous societal development and a healthy economy, while at the same time relieving environmental pressures.
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Citation
Moser, P., Feiel, S., Barbknecht, K-D., Diamadopoulos, E., Mężyk, A., Baelo, R., Radu, S. M., Hilmer, L., & Komnitsas, K., EURECA-PRO, The European University Alliance on Responsible Consumption and Production, in Proceedings of the European Metallurgical Conference 2021, 1 Aufl., Band 1, S. 1-15 (2021).
Publications related to Responsible Material Flows (LH1)
Title
Life Cycle Assessment for the Primary Raw Materials Extraction Industry
Authors
Jan C. Bongaerts*, Carsten Drebenstedt
Abstract
Since August of 2019, a small team of researchers at Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg have been training students and young researchers on the use of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) with several software packages called UMBERTO+, GaBi and LCA Open access for the purpose of investigating the environmental impacts of processes along their entire Life Cycle. LCA is not new, since researchers started to develop and expand the theoretical background and the methodology already in the early seventies of the last century, except that LCA studies on the extraction, treatment and management of natural resources are not very common. That is why, in Freiberg, our focus is on processes in mining and in mineral processing, especially with respect to minerals and metals with critical relevance for new technological developments, such as decarbonization, the energy transition and the circular economy
Publication Link
Citation
Bongaerts, J.C., Drebenstedt, C. (2023). Life Cycle Assessment for the Primary Raw Materials Extraction Industry. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_20
Title
Fair trade and the Sustainable Development Goals: an opportunity for sustainable production and consumption
Authors
Ana P. F. Alemany*, Liliana Herrera & M.F. Munoz-Doyague
Abstract
The paper presents what has been labeled Fair Trade certification and how it can aid in the economic growth of communities. The aim of this paper is twofold: On the one hand, to assess the impact of Fair Trade on developing coun-tries and its relationship with the Sustainable Development Goals. This shall be done through a review of the literature, using as a representative example the NGO Fairtrade L.O. International. On the other hand, to try to understand the perception of this certification among consumers, since trust in the effectiveness of Fair-Trade Standards is key to the purchase of its products.
The conclusion presents evidence arguing that Fair Trade dynamics can indeed foster sustainable and fairer production, more consistent with the dignity of every human being. Thus, it has the potential to impact positively developing countries, firms seeking to fulfill CSR standards and -given the necessary trust in these organizations- address the niche for consumers in developed economies seeking sustainable and humane production.
Publication Link
Citation
Alemany, A.P.F., Herrera, L., Muñoz-Doyague, M.F. (2023). Fair Trade and the Sustainable Development Goals: An Opportunity for Sustainable Production and Consumption. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_27
Title
About responsibility in production and consumption
Authors
Sarah Kollnig*
Abstract
This paper aims at bringing out the complexities of Sustainable Development Goal 12, Responsible Consumption and Production. This is done in the context of the EURECA-PRO initiative, the European University on Responsible Consumption and Production. The author argues that the official description of SDG 12 takes responsibility and sustainability to have the same meaning, as well as producers and consumers to be enlightened and behaving voluntarily in a re-sponsible manner. In a more differentiated approach, responsibility means taking concrete actions towards strategic sustainability goals. Producers take on this responsibility only in a voluntary manner, when it pays off for them not to keep externalizing the socio-ecological costs of their actions. Consumers do not automatically act responsibly either, since many of them do not have the capabilities or economic possibilities to take part in responsible consumption. Concluding, the author argues that collective agency can be a way towards holding corporations accountable for their actions, as well as towards creating possibilities for consumers to participate in responsible consumption practices.
Publication Link
Citation
Kollnig, S. (2023). About Responsibility in Production and Consumption. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_28
Title
Reducing Food Waste in Supermarkets with Machine Learning
Authors
JuChun Cheng, Mikaela Gärde, José M. Cecilia & Jose-Luis Poza-Lujan
Abstract
Around one-third of produced food is wasted, which is almost 1.3 billion tons of food per year, affecting the world economically, environmentally, and socially. Over the years, different solutions for food waste have been developed; however, machine learning within this area has not been sufficiently explored. The food rescue process is very time sensitive since the food can be close to turning rancid, so forecasting the supply of food to be donated could significantly increase the amount of food being rescued. Our objective is to optimise the use of food and reduce food waste in supermarkets. We propose a framework to predict the amount of expiring products donated with machine learning models.
In the paper, a first test of the framework, using simulated data, is presented, showing that the Support Vector Regression would be the most appropriate machine learning model for the framework, giving a score of 0.732While the paper shows that the framework can generate valuable results, the difficulties with applying it to the real world lie in the data acquisition phase. Supermarkets are private companies that might not be willing to share their business data, which is a problem for future research.
Publication Link
Citation
Cheng, J., Gärde, M., Cecilia, J.M., Poza-Lujan, JL. (2023). Reducing Food Waste in Supermarkets with Machine Learning. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_31
Title
Circularity and sustainability of bio-based polymer/natural fiber reinforced composite
Authors
Bharath Ravindran* & Ralf Schledjewski
Abstract
Amidst growing concerns about sustainability of composite materials, the renewed push towards adoption of bio-based polymer/natural fiber reinforced composites (Bio composite) are gaining increasing demands for various applications which are being the environmental and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic composite materials. Hence, the bio based composite development should be integrated in the circular economy (CE) model to ensure a sustainable production that leads to the conception of closed loops in which resources are in the circulation of production and consumption. However, ironically, the environmental sustainability of composite materials itself is still a challenge, due to the difficulty of recycling and reusing its components when the products reach the end of their useful life. In this context, a holistic attainment of sustainability makes it imperative to adapt sustainable practices not only for raw materials but at every stage of the product. Hence, this work provides a detailed exploration of the appropri-ate processing of natural fiber-reinforced bio-polymer composites and an insight on using recycled bio based composite constituents which could lead to a reduc-tion in material waste and environmental footprints.
Publication Link
Citation
Ravindran, B., Schledjewski, R. (2023). Circularity and Sustainability of Bio-Based Polymer/Natural Fiber Reinforced Composite. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_33
Title
Biodeposition of diatoms in recycled aggregates
Authors
Daniel Merino-Maldonado*, Andrea Antolín-Rodríguez, Saúl Blanco, Andrés Juan-Valdés, Julia M. Morán-del Pozo, Manuel I. Guerra-Romero & Julia García-González
Abstract
This work studies the behaviour of diatoms in artificial culture environments and analyses the biodeposition of diatom frustules in different sizes of mixed recycled aggregates. In order to be able to use this biodeposition as a surface treatment and improve the properties of this material for its effective use in recycled concrete. Surface analyses show that the density of diatoms in biofilm formation depends on the aggregate size, being better in smaller aggregates of 4-6.3 mm diameter. However, the diversity of diatoms is higher in aggregates with fractions of 8 to 12.5 mm. The combination of these tests demonstrates that dia-tom biodeposition is feasible in artificial environments for possible use as a pro-tective surface treatment of cement-based building materials.
Publication Link
Citation
Merino-Maldonado, D. et al. (2023). Biodeposition of Diatoms in Recycled Aggregates. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_37
Title
Circular economy policies in the concrete production
Authors
P. Jagadesh, T. Karthik Prabhu, Jesús de Prado-Gil, Víctor Baladrón-Blanco, Daniel Merino-Maldonado, Andrea Antolín-Rodríguez, Andrés Juan-Valdés & Rebeca Martínez-García*
Abstract
In the present scenario, the concept of circular economy is over-whelming in every sector and it also receives attention to overcome the continuous growth and increasing natural resource utilization. One of the major policies in concrete production is to reduce the cost of concrete without compromis-ing the quality of concrete itself. Researchers are looking to derive a solution for resource scarcity, the usage of wastes from industries without properly polluting the environment, and nowadays it becomes more significant than ever before. This article discusses the circular economy policies that can be implemented for concrete production. One of the best options available to reduce the negative impact generated by the concrete sector is the circular economy concept. This article discusses the lenient views of political, social, and legal features and is vital to integrating the solid issues of technical, environmental, and economic features.
Publication Link
Citation
Jagadesh, P. et al. (2023). Circular Economy Policies in the Concrete Production. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society. EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_50
Title
Plastic pollution and the need for responsible plastic consumption and waste management
Authors
Faith Chebet Tumwet* & Traugott Scheytt
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a global anthropogenic threat to all environmental compartments. The current plastic waste management practices include recy-cling, composting, and incineration for energy recovery or deposition in landfills, resulting in leaks into the natural environment at each stage. Interdisciplinary re-search and innovation perspectives in policymaking connecting the different ac-tors in the plastic value chain would ensure the closure of material loops, safe-guard human health, reduce climate change impacts, and promote biodiversity. This short paper provides an overview of the pervasive nature of plastic waste and microplastics in the natural environment, outlining a harmonious, systematic, and collaborative approach to tackling the plastics value chain while offering a potential circularity of material flows aligned with the principles of a circular plastic economy. Finally, a case is made to incorporate sustainable, restorative, and regenerative plastics production, use, and after-use as one of the unique in-dicators of Sustainable Development Goal 12. Ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns in the plastics landscape will demand the development of product standards and a holistic assessment methodology to guide the design of circular products, services, and business models.
Publication Link
Citation
Tumwet, F.C., Scheytt, T. (2023). Plastic Pollution and the Need for Responsible Plastic Consumption and Waste Management. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_51
Title
Health, habits and responsible and sustainable consumption
Authors
N. Calvo-Ayuso, P. Marqués-Sánchez, M. Martinez-Fernandez, R. García-Fernández, C. Martín Vázquez & A. Pinto Carral
Abstract
Natural resources are essential for human well-being, quality of life and health. Current consumption of these resources is disproportionate, with a markedly commercial character. The need arises to change the current paradigm of consumption towards a responsible and sustainable consumption in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12. Thus, from the Ponferrada campus (University of León), under the Eureca Pro project, a series of initiatives based on sustainable education through learning based on practice have been devel-oped. The main objective was to raise awareness and sensitise the general popu-lation about those behaviours that allow us to achieve the goals set out in SDG 12 in relation to healthy lifestyles, making known sustainable alternatives that benefit our quality of life. Three workshops and a community activity addressed responsible consumption in relation to healthy nutritional habits and the use of clothing and accessories. From the point of view of the university as a healthy environment, a promoter of health, through the revitalisation of the local envi-ronment and its economy, the focus was on education, awareness and empower-ment, key elements for a more sustainable development of societies and econo-mies. It is necessary to carry out more programmes aimed at the acquisition of knowledge and the development of attitudes and skills that allow people to decide about their future in a conscious and responsible way, as well as the execution of these decisions based on responsible, sustainable and healthy consumption.
Publication Link
Citation
Calvo-Ayuso, N., Marqués-Sánchez, P., Martínez-Fernández, M.C., García-Fernández, R., Martín Vázquez, C., Pinto Carral, A. (2023). Health, Habits and Responsible and Sustainable Consumption. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_55
Title
Damage Tolerance Approach in the Concept of Quality Control Workflow of Passive CFRP Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors
Białozor Rafał & Górski Marcin*
Abstract
The use of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) is one of the most popular methods of strengthening existing reinforced concrete structures nowadays. Many civil engineering structures (e.g. bridges) are strengthened in this way. Due to the reduction of costs and environmental impact through the decrease of construction waste and lower production of new construction materials (e.g. cement responsible for significant emission of CO2), it is still eco-nomically and environmentally justified to strengthen existing structures rather than demolish old ones and build new ones. After many years of using CFRP strengthening techniques, more and more concerns are dictated by its lifetime durability, gradual deterioration as well as quality assessment of the bond be-tween composite and concrete. Although available manufacturers’ design guide-lines for nondestructive evaluation strengthened reinforced concrete (RC) struc-tures indicate possible inspection methods, in the practice, they are limited mainly to visual inspection and tap tests. So far, it is not clear if any acceptable level of defect size in FRP-bonded members exists; thus, if any air voids or de-lamination are detected, the laminate should be replaced with the new one. This process in the performed in situ technically simple tests relies mostly on the worker’s perception. The lack of qualitative and quantitative guidelines for ac-ceptable defect levels may lead to conservative conclusions and unnecessary economic and environmental loss. On the other hand, recent studies [1][2] show that FRP strengthening systems are capable of remain a specific value of mem-ber capacity even when some defects exist in the bond. The main aim of this study is to highlight the issue of extending the lifetime of the passive CFRP strengthening system of RC structures by adopting the damage tolerance ap-proach and chosen concept of quality assessment workflow by pushing existing strengthening to its limits, simultaneously maintaining structure in acceptable conditions in terms of safety or serviceability. Facing the fact of the common and massive use of FRP strengthening over the last three decades around the world, such a new approach in the area of quantitative diagnostic may be con-sidered one of the basic tools for the extension of the life of structures and reducing the environmental impact of the construction sector.
Publication Link
Citation
Rafał, B., Marcin, G. (2023). Damage Tolerance Approach in the Concept of Quality Control Workflow of Passive CFRP Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Structures. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_59
Publications related to Environment and Water (LH2)
Title
Unconscious and conscious aspects of healthy food consumption: a neuromarketing and artificial intelligence approach
Authors
Aroa Costa-Feito & Sofía Blanco-Moreno
Abstract
Consumers’ unconscious perception of packaging is essential, especially regarding food products where people usually have to choose among relatively similar products. In addition, this perception can be affected by the opinions of other users published on social networks. Researchers must set new goals to better understand user behavior through the information they have at their fingertips, and which influences them. The application of neuromarketing and artificial intelligence techniques to packaging has recently gained considerable popularity both, in academia and practice. With the combination of these methodologies, this study explores how people process and communicate healthy food products, and how people’s thoughts and behaviors are informative to other users when it comes to understanding their consumption patterns. Two studies have been carried out. The first one with an eye-tracking technique, in which the attention of 20 participants has been analyzed through first fixation and fixation duration metrics. The second study is based on 448 comments from users who have posted their opposition on the social network Instagram.The results obtained show, on the one hand, that healthy statements in food packaging attract unconscious attention, and on the other hand, that healthy claims on food packaging are not enough to achieve consumer satisfaction after purchasing the products. Our study is one of the first to analyze how people perceive unconsciously and consciously healthy products, and how they talk after trying them.
Publication Link
Citation
Costa-Feito, A., Blanco-Moreno, S. (2023). Unconscious and Conscious Aspects of Healthy Food Consumption: A Neuromarketing and Artificial Intelligence Approach. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_35
Title
Ecological risks of post-artisanal mining sites and their sustainable cleaning techniques
Authors
Martin Kofi Mensah*, Carsten Drebenstedt, Ibukun Momoriola Ola, Precious Uchenna Okoroafor & Edward Debrah Wiafe
Abstract
This study assessed the residual contaminant load of three groups of artisanal gold mining (ASM) impacted lands, thereafter, phytoremediation techniques using Jatropha curcas, Manihot esculenta and organic amendments were used for mitigation. A total of 110 soil samples from 30 ASM sites were investigated for their total contents of Cd, As, Pb, Hg, Zn, Fe and Al. After sample digestion, ICP-MS was used for content determinations. Using activated neem seed extracts (NE) and poultry manure (PM) at different application rates, the phytoremediation potentials of Jatropha curcas and Manihot esculenta were assessed for 270 days after planting. The obtained data were analyzed with SPSS statistics 28 for the ANOVA. The results indicated mining spoils were suppliers of toxic elements in the soil however, their distributions per contaminant varied based on the properties of the ore materials mined. As a result, mine spoils created the processing of oxide and underground rock ores supplied contents of As, Fe, Al, Cd and Zn much more than alluvial mining sites and above tolerable threshold levels. Both J. curcas and M. esculenta exhibited phytostabilizing potentials as larger portions of absorbed elements were stored in their root organs. However, the application of a 25% mixture of neem seed extract and poultry manure or 25% poultry manure only (w/w) to soils reduced the uptake capacity of potentially toxic elements by J. curcas and M. esculenta of 19- 38% and 10.4- 45% respectively
Publication Link
Citation
Mensah, M.K., Drebenstedt, C., Ola, I.M., Okoroafor, P.U., Wiafe, E.D. (2023). Ecological Risks of Post-artisanal Mining Sites and Their Sustainable Cleaning Techniques. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_18
Publications related to Sustainable Materials and Products (LH3)
Title
Innovative treatment of municipal sewage sludge using hydrothermal carbonization and nutrient recovery technologies
Authors
Marion Andritz
Abstract
Phosphorus (P) is an essential and at the same time critical resource, as there are barely any available reserves in the European Union, which means that there is a dependence on imports from non-EU countries. In these countries, there are critical working and environmental conditions for which social responsibility must be taken. To address these challenges, municipal sewage sludge has to be utilized since it has a huge potential to produce sustainable P-fertilizers. Hydrothermal Carbonization (HTC) is an energy-improved treatment of sewage sludge and enhances the dewatering properties. The remaining process water contains a significant nutrient content, especially nitrogen (N) and phosphorous (P). For a future project, the recovery potential of P was investigated for Germany, Austria and Switzerland (DACH region). The forecasted P recovery potential in the DACH region until 2030 covers 25 % of the annual P demand and the environmental impact due to the conventional industrial production of P fertilizer could be reduced dramatically (up to 63 t of CO2 emissions can be saved per year). To identify the sustainable development goals (SDGs) which are primarily addressed by the project, the following question was formulated: What effects does the technology have in terms of sustainability (social, ecological, economic)? The investigation showed that SDGs 8, 11, 12, and 13 are mainly focused. The investigations serve as a basis for a future project, which is shortly introduced in this work, where the nutrients, as well as heavy metals, will be recovered by an innovative combination of three novel processes.
Publication Link
Citation
Andritz, M. (2023). Innovative Treatment of Municipal Sewage Sludge Using Hydrothermal Carbonization and Nutrient Recovery Technologies. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_19
Title
Resin degradation of end-of-life wind turbine blades to produce useful chemical compounds in the context of waste to resource recovery
Authors
H.Mumtaz, S.Werle, S.Sobek, M.Sajdak, R.Muzyka
Abstract
The selection of proper strategies for degradation and useful product conversion of fiber composites is driven by various environmental and economic factors. Recycling end-of-life (EOL) waste of wind turbine (WT) blade composites is a critical challenge for the renewable energy sector because of its complex composition. The focus of this study is to degrade the complex resins of wind turbine blades to produce useful chemical compounds through the oxy-liquefaction technique under subcritical water conditions. Wind turbine blades have various resins including epoxy resins, glass fibers, and carbon fibers, and they are not easy to separate so the recovery of resin as an individual component is not an easy task. The treatment of selected waste material is carried out at the temperature range of 250 to 350oC with starting pressure of 20 to 40 bar. The effect of varying weight percentages of oxygen, waste to liquid ratio and residence time on resin degradation has also been studied. Production of various chemical compounds including volatile fatty acids and benzene, toluene and xylene (BTXs) and their dependency on the extent of resin degradation have been checked by using analysis of variance (ANOVA) analysis. Identification of the various chemical compounds against different retention times and temperatures in gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID) has also been presented. High resin degradation is an identification of the fact that the oxi-liquefaction technique has the potential to effectively treat the wind turbine blades and support the concept of waste to resource recovery.
Publication Link
Citation
Mumtaz, H., Werle, S., Sobek, S., Sajdak, M., Muzyka, R. (2023). Resin Degradation of End-of-Life Wind Turbine Blades to Produce Useful Chemical Compounds in the Context of Waste to Resource Recovery. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_17
Publications related to Clean Energy (LH4)
Title
Consumption behaviour in the context of sustainable energy: theoretical approache
Authors
Aušra Pažėraitė & Svetlana Kunskaja*
Abstract
Increasing production and consumption have a growing environmental impact. The challenge for all countries is to decouple economic growth from the environmental impacts of consumption, resource use and waste generation. The economic sectors with the highest environmental impacts are electricity, gas and water supply, transport services and agriculture. It is there-fore becoming important to improve energy efficiency and invest in innovative and resource-efficient technologies, recognising the need to change consumption patterns and behaviours. The Sustainable Development Strategy focuses on sustainable production and consumption. Although historically the focus has been on production and the associated environmental problems and solutions such as pollution control, cleaner production and recycling. Production and consumption as interdependent indicators have only recently come into focus as researchers have realised that production and consumption are highly interrelated. Sustainable Development Goals have stressed the importance of promoting consumption and production that have the least possible impact on the environment and are able to meet the basic needs of humanity.
Publication Link
Citation
Pažėraitė, A., Kunskaja, S. (2023). Consumption Behaviour in the Context of Sustainable Energy: Theoretical Approach. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_11
Title
Autonomous Smart Electric Vehicle integrated into a Smart Grid type System
Authors
Cosmin Rus* & Monica Leba
Abstract
The reverse water gas shift (rWGS) reaction represents a key technologyto realize an end-to-end power-to-liquid process chain. In this work, experimental tests of a nickel catalyst are reported. The influence of operating temperature (650-950 °C), pressure (ambient pressure up to 6 bara) and gas hourly space velocity (6000-40 000 h-1) on the conversion of CO2 and hydrogen is investigated. The results of this experimental evaluation show that the rWGS reaction favors high temperatures and low pressures. Thermodynamic equilibrium is approached with the used catalyst. Higher gas hourly space velocities favor the rWGS reaction and inhibit methane formation.
Publication Link
Citation
Markowitsch, C., Lehner, M. (2023). Impact of the Operation Conditions on the Reverse-Water-Gas Shift Reaction. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_10
Publications related to Process automation and Industry 4.0 (LH5)
Title
Autonomous Smart Electric Vehicle integrated into a Smart Grid type System
Authors
Cosmin Rus* & Monica Leba
Abstract
This paper briefly presents the creation of an intelligent electric vehicle with self-driving capabilities that can be integrated into both the new Smart Grid
and Smart City concepts, as well as its use as a prosumer element in an electricity supply network. The realization of a small electric vehicle obtained based on a conversion of its thermal engine into an electric engine, the integration of communication systems based on the LoRa network and the use of LiDAR sensors for the purpose of mapping an area of interest is briefly presented. A concept for the development of an electricity supply system with the help of photovoltaic panels installed in the city of Petroșani is also presented. The entire designed system, even if part of it is only at a conceptual level, represents a starting point in terms of the development of integrated systems around an autonomous electric vehicle with autonomous driving capabilities that can be considered truly 100% non-polluting through given the fact that the vehicle’s batteries will be powered by renewable sources.
Publication Link
Citation
Rus, C., Leba, M. (2023). Autonomous Smart Electric Vehicle Integrated into a Smart Grid Type System. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_7
Title
Virtual Exchange as a Sustainable Approach to Intercultural Learning
Authors
Ángela María Alonso Morais*
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to provide insight into Virtual Exchange, a relatively underdeveloped tool for the internationalisation of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) that offers a sustainable, easily-accessible opportunity to enhance students’ intercultural communicative competence (ICC). Several studies have reported a lack of authentic intercultural learning and skills in university students who come back to their home institution after a study abroad experience (Batardière in J Virtual Exchange 2, 2019, [1]). With this in mind, it has been argued that students need a preparatory phase to reflect and acquire skills to cope with the difficulties of studying abroad and the knowledge to fully benefit from the stay. In addition, students whose financial or personal situation does not allow them to go on exchange should also have the chance to become interculturally aware and skilled. This paper examines the sustainable component of virtual exchange (VE) and presents a newly designed model of exchange for undergraduate students of the EURECA-PRO alliance. This project is underway at the Universidad de León and is one of a few recent examples of online pre-mobility that can be found in Europe. It is a multicultural free programme, firmly committed to a sustainable accessible-to-all education that fosters the development of intercultural sensitivity, transversal or soft skills, democratic citizenship, foreign language learning, and collaborative learning. The results of the research will be expressed at a later time when data have been gathered and analysed.
Publication Link
Citation
Alonso-Morais, Á.M. (2023). Virtual Exchange as a Sustainable Approach to Intercultural Learning. In: Benítez-Andrades, J.A., García-Llamas, P., Taboada, Á., Estévez-Mauriz, L., Baelo, R. (eds) Global Challenges for a Sustainable Society . EURECA-PRO 2022. Springer Proceedings in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25840-4_65
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