Claim Missing Document
Check
Articles

Found 3 Documents
Search

Evaluating the Impact of Government Policies on Circular Economy Adoption in the Construction Sector Hoareau, Carol Emilly; Tam, Nicholas
Civil and Sustainable Urban Engineering Volume 4 - Issue 2 - 2024
Publisher : Tecno Scientifica Publishing & Society of Tropical Science and Technology

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.53623/csue.v4i2.481

Abstract

The construction sector is both essential for global economic progress and one of the largest contributors to pollution, resource depletion, and energy consumption. Given the urgent need to adopt more sustainable practices, governments in developed countries have introduced policies aimed at fostering a circular economy in this sector. These policies emphasize the use of green materials to reduce resource consumption, energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals. The waste hierarchy further governs these policies, prioritizing waste reduction, reuse, and recycling. This study analyzes the effectiveness of these government policies in promoting circular economy principles, particularly the adoption of green materials in the construction industry. Our findings reveal that while these policies have led to measurable reductions in energy consumption and emissions, the extent of green material adoption varies significantly across countries. Key factors influencing this variation include economic incentives, regulatory enforcement, and the level of industry acceptance of green technologies. One of the most important results of this study is the identification of significant gaps between policy intent and actual industry practices. In many cases, green materials, despite their favorable characteristics, have not been widely implemented due to economic, technical, and market barriers. These findings underscore the need for stronger government incentives and more consistent policy enforcement to drive broader adoption of sustainable practices. Future studies should focus on overcoming these barriers, exploring the long-term economic impacts of green material adoption, and evaluating how policy frameworks can be optimized to ensure more widespread.
Soil Remediation by Nanotechnology: Valuating Materials, Mechanisms, and Environmental Impacts Hoareau, Carol Emilly; Kabeya, Clementine
Industrial and Domestic Waste Management Volume 4 - Issue 2 - 2024
Publisher : Tecno Scientifica Publishing

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.53623/idwm.v4i2.534

Abstract

The rapid growth of the human population and industrial activities has resulted in considerable environmental degradation. Processes such as industrialization, mining, agriculture, and waste disposal introduce harmful chemicals that contaminate soil, groundwater, and surface waters. Consequently, soil remediation has become a critical priority for many nations, given that soil quality directly affects agriculture and public health. Nanotechnology presents promising solutions to the shortcomings of traditional soil remediation methods by offering innovative materials and mechanisms for the removal or neutralization of contaminants. This review intends to evaluate the use of nanotechnology in soil remediation, emphasizing the nanomaterials employed, their reaction mechanisms, and potential environmental effects. Nanomaterials like nano zero-valent iron, metal oxides, and carbon-based materials have shown effectiveness in immobilizing, degrading, or extracting pollutants from soil and water through processes such as adsorption, photocatalysis, and filtration. However, certain nanomaterials raise concerns about toxicity and bioaccumulation, which may negatively affect ecosystems and human health. Therefore, additional research is needed to confirm the safety, compatibility, and sustainability of these technologies. This review also identifies significant challenges in the implementation of nanotechnologies for soil remediation and examines future directions and recommendations for addressing these challenges.
Sustainable Technology in Developed Countries: Waste Municipal Management Hoareau, Carol Emilly; Ahmad, Noraziah; Nuid, Maria; Rubiyatno; Khoi, Dao Nguyen; Kristanti, Risky Ayu
Industrial and Domestic Waste Management Volume 1 - Issue 1 - 2021
Publisher : Tecno Scientifica Publishing

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | Full PDF (311.878 KB) | DOI: 10.53623/idwm.v1i1.49

Abstract

As more studies were conducted and global events unfold, a greater emphasis is being placed on the importance of preserving the Earth's natural resources and cycles before we face a catastrophic climate crisis. Thus, developed countries are constantly adapting their policies and legislation to promote green development for the sake of sustainable development, which benefits both the environment and the socioeconomic segment. As populations grow and living standards improve, more waste is generated. Appropriate municipal waste management is necessary to avoid harm to the environment, wildlife, and human health. Sustainable municipal solid waste management is even included in the United Nations' (UN) Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to improve the world's environment and economy. The European Union (EU) member states' waste management systems can be considered exemplary. In some countries, landfills have been prohibited, promoting the use of more sustainable technologies such as organic waste incineration, recycling, and composting. However, a divide exists between member countries, with some lagging behind in terms of waste management strategies. Thus, this paper examined the current state of municipal waste in EU member states, followed by a review of the various disposal technologies implemented. The difficulties and environmental concerns that must be overcome are discussed, as are the recommendations and possible future directions.