bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GENETIC VARIABILITY OF OAKS (QUERCUS L.) AT THE REGION OF OUTSTANDING FEATURES "KOSMAJ" (SERBIA) AS A BASIS FOR THE CONSERVATION OF THE AVAILABLE GENE POOL
Authors: Sijacic-Nikolic Mirjana , Nonic Marina , Jankovic Kerkez , Milovanovic Jelena , Jovanovic Marija
Published: April 2024

Identification and quantification of the factors that influence genetic diversity is particularly important for the representatives of the genus Quercus L. In this genus, the characterization of the genetic diversity correlations can serve as a basis for predictive models of its distribution. The adaptive and neutral genetic variability of four autochthonous oak species (Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl. � sessile oak, Q. pubescens Willd. � pubescent oak, Q. frainetto Ten. � Hungarian oak, Q. cerris L. � Turkey oak) was studied at the Landscape of Outstanding Features (LOF) "Kosmaj" in Serbia. This study aimed to test to which degree the inter- and intraspecific genetic variability of oaks is the result of the genotype influence, local habitat conditions, environmental factors, population management practices, and the historical processes that the analyzed populations have gone through. In total, 247 individuals of the four selected oak species were investigated. Adaptive variability was studied using geometric morphometric methods (landmarks and outlines), and neutral variability using nuclear microsatellites (nSSRs). The results showed that the adaptive variability of oaks at the LOF "Kosmaj" is related to habitat characteristics, environmental conditions, and oak population management practices, while neutral variability analysis showed relatively high genetic diversity levels of all studied oak species. The consistency of the results obtained using adaptive and neutral genetic markers, and the consistency of the obtained results with previously published data on genetic variability of oaks was also observed. The results suggest that the effective conservation of oak genetic resources at the LOF "Kosmaj" requires coordinated efforts of the forestry, environmental and nature protection sectors. An important goal is the determination of priority species, populations and areas for the conservation of oak genetic resources in the form of in situ conservation units and ex situ methods, within a coherent program and in accordance with national policies and the biological capabilities of each species.
TREE LITTER PRODUCTION IN GREY ALDER (ALNUS INCANA) STANDS ON DRY AND WET MINERAL SOILS
Authors: Bickovskis Karlis , Samarkis Valters , Jansons Aris
Published: April 2024

Forests play an important role in carbon storage and global carbon cycling. The processes of litter decomposition, movement within the soil, and incorporation into different soil layers play a crucial role in the functioning of forest ecosystems. These activities are important in regulating the cycling of soil organic matter and the storage and release of carbon into the atmosphere. Soil carbon and carbon input via litter has been well-recognized, however studied relatively less compared to other carbon pools, but local estimates are necessary to reduce uncertainties and due to climate change mitigation goals. The aim of the study is to evaluate differences in tree litter production in different age classes and forest types in grey alder (Alnus incana) dominated forests. In total 12 grey alder stands were selected to represent each age class (10-year interval) in two different soil moisture regimes (dry and wet mineral soils). In each stand 4 litter collectors were placed in a transect and samples collected every month for a full year. Each sample was air dried until constant weight and weighted afterwards to determine litter dry-weight. Our study results indicate seasonal differences in litter production, however significant differences between average litter production of grey alder stands in dry and wet mineral soils was not observed. Moreover, litter production amount is lower for younger stands and increases with age, as study results indicate that main factor determining litter production is stand basal area.
A PROPOSAL OF MARINE SHORT RANGE TRANSPORTATION, IN MEDITERRANEAN SCENARIO, TO REDUCE CO2 EMISSIONS AND IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENT.
Authors: Ruggiero Valerio
Published: April 2024

The Mediterranean Sea can be taken as a good example of the advantage of people transportation by water, in order to reduce pollution. This is mainly due to historical reasons, in fact the ashore private transportation along coasts of Italy, France, Spain, Slovenia, Croazia etc, has been developed during centuries on the basis of Roman Empire roads, and furtherly with development of railways, offering basically 2 different ways of transport. But recent solutions and studies shows the possibility to give a significant contribution to the reduction of emissions by the use of appropriate vessels. In fact, the present generation of propulsion system in marine application, and the developments of hybrid propulsion, with new technologies for batteries, makes possible to build a vessel with a significant reduction of pollution. The author, after studying also, as a benchmark, the transportation used on main Italian Lakes, and using his experience with other vessel, also hydrofoil and fast vessels, consider a case study of transportation applied to Ligurian an Tirrenic sea, by the use of a fleet of fast vessels, capable to carry 350-400 passengers at an average speed of 22-24 knot, comparing the fuel consumption and the cost of each vessel with the average capability and price of a train and comparing the fuel consumptions of the vessels with the total amount of fuel used by the amount of private cars used to move the same amount of people. The study takes in consideration also the average sea condition, to demonstrate that especially in the area considered, a similar service can guarantee a long-term usage. The result of the study shows how is possible to adopt a significant benefit for the environment, due the possibility now offered to use e-fuels, or green fuels, to reduce the ashore facilities, no need of bridges, tunnels, road etc.
ANALYSIS OF INOVATIVE SALE SYSTEM (VENDING MACHINE), INDEPENDENT OF ENERGY, OF COLD AND HOT PRODUCTS
Authors: Savaniu Ioan , Tonciu Oana , Neagu Ancuta , Culcea Magdalena
Published: April 2024

In the current energetical context, there is a need to diversify energetically independent applications. The presence of energetically independent vending systems is necessary in the smart cities of the future and beyond. Energetically independent vending equipment must ensure the delivery of cold or hot products with low energy consumption. Reduced energy consumption and the use of environmentally friendly sources lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and at the same time to higher energy autonomy. The paper presents the results obtained from testing the innovative experimental sales system developed to study the energetic efficiency of this equipment. The innovative sales system is a complex system that integrates energy production and storage, cooling and heating systems. The fully automated system allows cold storage of products and their subsequent delivery, cold or hot, on demand. The vending system was powered by electrical energy from an array of photovoltaic panels. The results obtained, summarized in the paper, lead to the possibility of developing stand-alone vending equipment with significant reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in urban agglomerations.
ENERGY SECURITY OPPORTUNITIES ARISING FROM SDGS AND THE RECOVERY AND RESILIENCE PLAN
Authors: Kazimirova Lenka , Ciderova Denisa , Sakacova Simona , Cernak Jozef
Published: April 2024

The issue of energy self-sufficiency is currently crucial. The concept of energy selfsufficiency is closely related to the concept of energy security; yet, there are many definitions for the term energy security. The essence of all of them is for a country to secure enough energy resources to cover its needs. If a country can secure these resources on its own without depending on imports from other countries, one refers to energy self-sufficiency. Energy self-sufficiency can be achieved in a number of ways such as reducing energy demand, improving fuel efficiency, securing physical infrastructure networks, increasing storage capacity, or increasing the use of renewable energy sources. Fundamental forms of energy self-sufficiency are external self-sufficiency, internal selfsufficiency, and energy consumption; overall, energy self-sufficiency consists of four components: availability; affordability; energy and economic efficiency; and environmental stewardship. Low energy self-sufficiency has a significant economic and social impact, which is reflected in a country's balance of payments and employment, it can lead to economic crises and price instability. Lack of access to reliable and affordable energy can result in food insecurity; health problems; limited access to education, social and economic development. The linkages between energy, food self-sufficiency, and self-sufficiency of water resources are considered in terms of the so-called WEF Nexus (Water-Energy-Food Nexus) that focuses on the interconnectedness of water, energy and food systems to promote sustainable development and address global climate change. Based on the application of scientific methods in relation to the investigation of energy self-sufficiency (the �E� Matrix in the framework of the WEF Nexus) on the background of quantitative & qualitative sustainable development and CSR trends, the main aim of our paper is to assess energy self-sufficiency in the context of the WEF nexus as well as in the light of the United Nations 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in order to formulate opportunities arising from the European Union Recovery and Resilience Plans. When documenting quantitative & qualitative sustainable development trends in the context of the WEF Nexus, our paper addressed the United Nations 2030 Agenda (alias �SDG diplomacy�) as well as the NextGenerationEU Agenda (alias �Green Deal diplomacy�).
GREEN BONDS AS A LONG-TERM SOURCE OF FINANCE FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY INVESTMENTS
Authors: Gurunlu Meltem
Published: April 2024

In a context where clean energy has become almost an imperative, investments in renewable energy projects play an important role for achieving the sustainability of scarce resources needed for the well-being of future generations. Driven by the fact of climate change and the very need for reduction of carbon dioxide emissions all around the world, renewable energy economy has expanded with increasing participation of investors and new types of innovative financial techniques. One of the most striking innovative financial techniques is green bonds, started with the issuance of the �climate awareness bond� by the European Investment Bank in 2007. International Capital Market Association�s (ICMA) publication of the Green Bond Principles (GBPs) in 2014, further motivated the expansion of the green bond market. Green bonds, are fixed-income securities which are issued to finance exclusively positive impact generating projects related to environment and climate change. In this study, it is aimed to investigate the development of global green bond markets with their related advantages, disadvantages, and policy implications. A green policy proposal will be made for enhancing the financing of renewable energy projects.
NEW ASPECTS OF EXPLOSIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF HYBRID MIXTURES OF DUST/GAS DISPERSIONS
Authors: Helegda Matous , Helegda Iris , Skrinsky Jan , Kubricka Katerina , Pokorny Jiri
Published: April 2024

A small amount of flammable gas mixed with dust can cause a large explosion with serious consequences. In this study, explosions of hybrid mixtures will be performed in an explosion chamber with a volume of 0.02 m3 and 1.00 m3. Research into testing the explosion characteristics of hybrid mixtures is usually conducted under standard conditions. Testing the explosion characteristics of hybrid mixtures at higher initial temperatures has already been presented in several earlier studies. Hybrid mixtures are created and occur, for example, in biomass gasification technology, which is located at VSB-TU Ostrava, where synthetic gas is the output of the entire technology. In technology, the hybrid mixture can be created in a �hot filter�, where a working temperature of 450 �C is required. This technology is not unique, similar gasification technologies are found in other academic or industrial fields in the world. However, they may differ slightly from each other. Given that there is currently a noticeable shift away from fossil fuels and the search for different alternatives, it is possible that these gasification technologies will increase in the world. With this, the risks resulting from the use of these technologies will also increase, i.e. the risks of fires and explosions (and not only from potential hybrid mixtures created in these technologies). In this study, the effect of further increasing the initial temperatures will be presented. It was found that as the temperature increases, the values of the explosion characteristics decrease. This has a major impact on the determination of explosion characteristics in industrial plants (e.g. in the food industry or biomass gasification technologies) where non-standard conditions occur.
THE CARBON BORDER ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM (CBAM): A QUALITATIVE LEAP IN ENVIRONMENTAL TAXATION FOR A WORLD IN ECOLOGICAL TRANSITION.
Authors: Ceroni Elisabetta
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), as a significant step forward in the testing of good practices in environmental taxation. The main objective of this mechanism is in fact to shift the focus from the mere obtaining of tax revenues towards the achievement of climate objectives. The European Commission has introduced this tool aware of its leading role in the environmental field, aiming to influence the decisions of third countries in the fight against the global climate emergency. However, the CBAM raises concerns about its potential use as a tool for European market protectionism, creating tensions with the world�s main economic players. Despite the critical issues, the CBAM proposal could accelerate the convergence of legal systems and foster scientific evidence regarding the relationship between global warming and greenhouse gas emissions, in addressing global environmental challenges. In a world where global emergencies require global responses, CBAM can therefore become an important tool to prevent the circumvention of law enforcement mechanisms and penalize non-virtuous behavior. In this context, environmental taxation, now supported in many countries by direct constitutional coverage, can play a strategic role in the implementation of international commitments, promoting an ecological transition with an eye to sustainable development and the effective allocation of resources.
THE HYDROGEN CONCENTRATION ON NETWORKS FOR GAS SUPPLY
Authors: Boyadjiev Martin
Published: April 2024

Restrictions on the planet's carbon footprint are becoming a motivating measure to limit the use of fossil fuels in the European Union. One of the measures to decarbonize the economy is to reduce the use of hydrocarbon fuels (oil, gas, coal). Increasing the potential for hydrogen use in energy is a key point in the conversion of fuels into energy. How the concentration of hydrogen is reflected in the gas supply is an analysis that the energy sector must consider to determine the safe operation and quality of operation of the appliances. Increasing the concentration of hydrogen in gas mixtures by up to 5% does not change the key parameters that determine the interchangeability of used gases in the gas industry. At hydrogen concentrations above 15 % in the gas mixtures, the gasdynamic properties of the gas also change, which also affects the design parameters of the gas supply systems. The article has described the possibilities for transport of the hydrogen in gas networks mixed with natural gas. Options for hydrogen production using alternative energies to meet the Green Deal criteria are described. The specifics of the transport and distributed gas pipelines in Bulgaria have been examined. According to their technical parameters, with the aim of high safety, a scheme of mixing hydrogen with natural gas is proposed. Based on the materials of the pipelines and the technical means of management and maintenance, the permissible concentrations of hydrogen are given. To achieve the possibility of a simplified assessment of the influence of hydrogen.
CHARACTERIZING THE MEMBRANE CONCENTRATE FROM LEACHATE TREATMENT: HAZARDOUSNESS EVALUATION AND ITS POTENTIAL TO LANDFILL RECIRCULATION
Authors: Kim Lidia , Laurentiu Dinu Razvan , Cuciureanu Adriana , Cernica Georgiana , Badescu Valeriu
Published: April 2024

One of the main challenges in treating landfill leachate through membranes is managing the resulting concentrate. Depending on the membrane installation's performance and the stored waste's characteristics, significant quantities of concentrate may remain after leachate treatment. Therefore, it is necessary to identify an optimal disposal or treatment method for it. In the European Union List of Waste, the membrane concentrates are associated with leachates and are classified as either hazardous or non-hazardous waste and assigns them "mirror entries" codes: 19 07 02* or 19 07 03. Consequently, it is crucial to evaluate their hazardousness for proper management. If the concentrate is non-hazardous, it can be recirculated to the waste deposit under certain conditions. However, legislation only permits the storage of solid waste or sludge from the treatment plant with humidity less than 60%. The paper refers to the characterization and evaluation of the hazardous properties of three liquid wastes, known as membrane concentrates, from treating municipal waste deposits leachates by reverse osmosis. In this study, the concentrations obtained for the main indicators in the three concentrates were found to be within the following ranges: ammonium (620 - 1120 mg/L); chlorides (12114 - 21349 mg/L); dissolved organic carbon (4270 - 10450 mg/L); total dissolved solids (60840 - 81000 mg/L). Reporting these concentrations to the limits imposed on the hazardous properties HP1-HP15, the wastes fall under code 19 07 03, related to nonhazardous waste. Even if the treatment facility would handle the treatment of a more polluted leachate resulting as concentrate is recirculated to the landfill, according to the legislation, due to the high concentrations of dissolved organic carbon, the three wastes cannot be eliminated on the waste deposits.
CHALLENGES TO THE FOOD WASTE RECYCLING SYSTEM IN LATVIA
Authors: Eglite Aija , Kaufmane Dace
Published: April 2024

Prevention and reduction of food waste production, food waste conversion into energy and products as well as the proper disposal are sequential processes in the food system. Technological standards and a legal framework for food waste recycling, as well as amendments to the relevant legal acts � both national- and municipal-level ones � have been made in Latvia. In addition, the compliance with the European Waste Classification for Statistics have been verified and the participation of nongovernmental organizations have been promoted. Consumer education, financial stimuli, technical support, public awareness and tracking and reporting strategies are applied in Latvia. The present research aims to briefly review the objectives achieved and the respective future plans in order to reduce food waste and increase the proportion of recycled food waste in Latvia. The research is based on a content analysis and expert interviews. The largest challenge to waste sorting is to ensure that the quality of the waste sorted allows the food waste collected to be recycled. In 95% cases, the biological waste sorted is of poor quality and cannot be used for high-quality compost. Food waste is managed differently across municipalities. By motivating and stimulating households, the number of those sorting biological waste could increase, driven by both environmental conviction and economic rationalism. Overall in Latvia, the food waste management system is strictly regulated for companies, yet it is not profitable enough for households to prepare compostable material from food waste.
COMPOSTING OF BIODEGRADABLE PLASTIC WASTE - CHANGES IN THE MICROBIAL COMMUNITY
Authors: Grigorova-Pesheva Bilyana , Malcheva Boyka
Published: April 2024

The present study aimed to track the changes in microbial communities during home composting of biodegradable plastic products (PLA). 6 waste mixtures and controls were prepared, with C:N about 30, placed in containers. The amount of PLA compared to the compostable mixture is 1%. Different depositing methods were used - active composting and placing part of the material in biodegradable bags. Temperature, humidity, pH, C:N ratio were measured. The amounts of bacteria, actinomycetes, micromycetes were recorded during the individual phases of composting, including the initial mixing of the materials. The microbiological analyzes were performed using the counting plate method. The reading is done in colony forming units. Total microbial number (TMN) was calculated. The ratio of the microbial populations in the studied samples with PLA was compared with the dynamics of development of the microbial populations in the control samples. Samples with added PLA have a higher TMN. For samples placed in a biodegradable bag, the thermophilic phase occurs faster and the amounts of microorganisms are higher. In all tested variants, the controls gave lower values of TMN. Some of the biodegradable materials (cutlery) are still discernible at the end stage of the composting process. Standard dynamics were observed in changing the percentage participation of individual microbial groups during the different phases of composting, regardless of added PLA. PLAs stimulate the composting process.
ENHANCING SOIL QUALITY AND NUTRIENT AVAILABILITY WITH ZEOLITES AND DIATOMACEOUS EARTH
Authors: Katsarova Ana
Published: April 2024

Organic farming has a future, but a significant obstacle to its application is the need for more organic fertilisers and the imbalance of macronutrients - nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. We set the following working hypothesis: whether the simultaneous application of natural zeolites and diatomaceous earth, in combination with a compost mixture, optimises the nutrient elements in two types of soils, taking into account their agrochemical and physicochemical parameters. The research includes experiments with Vertisols and Chernozems. Five different variants were tested with two replicates. After the investigation, the obtained data on the content of N, P, K, and Si in the soil showed a significant effect of the combined application of zeolite and diatomaceous earth combined with the compost mixture. The values of plant-available phosphorus in these variations are twice as high as in the control variations. In the containers with added zeolite, the amount of plant-available potassium significantly increased to 223.9 mg.100g-1 in the combined soil-zeolite-compost mixture variation. The data on the silicon content in the Chernozems in variant soil-diatomaceous earth, where the content was recorded to be half as much as in the control variation, was intriguing. No change in soil pH was observed for the entire experiment period.
MUNICIPAL ORGANIC WASTE COMPOSTING IN ROMANIA? RESOURCES AVAILABILITY AND RECENT ADVANCES
Authors: Manea Elena Elisabeta , Bumbac Costel , Dinu Laurentiu , Badescu Valeriu , Ioana Ionescu
Published: April 2024

Composting municipal organic waste is important for several reasons, including greenhouse gas emissions reduction, soil health improvement, nutrients recycle, waste reduction, costs reduction (by reducing the waste volumes, the handling costs are decreased). Information on the practices of municipal organic waste composting in Romania is limited, thus a comprehensive evaluation of the limiting factors and current solution was carried out. According to the European Environment Agency, Romania has made progress in organic recycling, including composting, as part of its municipal waste management. The evolution of municipal solid waste (MSW) recycling in Romania was limited to 7% in 2010. Afterwards, Romania has made progress in organic recycling, including composting, as part of its municipal waste management. The amounts composted and digested include output from treatment of mixed municipal waste in mechanical-biological treatment plants. Home composting could be a solution to reduce biowaste losses in rural areas. Municipal selective collection of organic waste is an effective way to increase the percentage of organics composting and improve the quality of organic waste. By collecting organic waste separately, it can be processed more efficiently and effectively, leading to higher quality compost. This can also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air and water quality. Composting organic waste creates a product that can be used to improve soil health, grow crops, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.
RECYCLING IN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - ANALYSIS OF THE USE OF AMORPHOUS MATERIALS POLY(ACRYLONITRILE-CO-BUTADIENE-CO-STYRENE) (ABS) IN STRUCTURAL CONCRETE.
Authors: Stepien Anna , Dachowski Ryszard , Molendowska Agnieszka
Published: April 2024

Activities related to industrial aspects in the 21st century focus on, among others, low-emission economy, sustainable construction, recycling of processed materials, possibilities of recovery of building materials after the decision to demolish and ecology. The most popular building material is currently concrete used to make monolithic structures and prefabricated elements. There are many modifications to concrete, and the topic of recycling in building materials has become a priority. One of the materials is ABS, i.e. poly(acrylonitrile-co-butadiene-co-styrene). ABS is an amorphous, metastable material characterized by high resistance, impact strength, hardness and scratch resistance. It is also resistant to light and UV radiation and has favorable insulating properties. The only drawback is the lack of resistance to acids, esters and ketones. In order to determine the impact of ABS modification on the properties of the concrete mix, the following tests were performed: compressive strength, density and microscopic tests.
OPTIMIZATION MEASURES FOR IMPROVING THE RATIONAL USE OF THE SURFACE LAYER OF ANTHROPOGENIC LANDSCAPES IN THE KRYVYI RIH LANDSCAPE-TECHNICAL SYSTEM.
Authors: Koptieva Tetiana , Pavlo Lotsman
Published: April 2024

The article is devoted to the study of optimization measures to improve the rational use of the surface tier of anthropogenic landscapes in the Kryvyi Rih landscape and technical system. The surface tier of anthropogenic landscapes is analyzed and defined on the example of mining and settlement landscapes. The problems associated with the active development of the mining industry and the causing such factors as poor soil quality, derivative processes and phenomena, pollution and uncontrolled use of resources are identified. The article describes various optimization measures, such as reclamation, revitalization, cultivation, landscape monitoring, conservation, green spaces, landscape design, etc. The importance of cooperation between the public, authorities and research institutions to achieve a more sustainable use of anthropogenic landscapes is also considered. The results of the study show that optimization measures can contribute to the improvement of the ecological state and ensure the sustainable development of anthropogenic landscapes in the Kryvyi Rih landscape and technical system.
RECYCLING IN CONSTRUCTION - CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPOSITE AND RECYCLED MATERIALS USED IN STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS OF BUILDINGS
Authors: Stepien Anna , Wojarska-Gniady Patrycja
Published: April 2024

The article discusses the issue of recycling and the use of recycled substrates in building materials and parts of building structures. Recycling is one of the elements compatible with the current functioning of society and which has its significant place in a sustainable economy and construction. There are currently many modifications of construction materials such as concrete or bricks. The concrete mass or base from which modified bricks are made include: recycled glass components (powder and glass sand), HIPS, ABS, geopolymers, etc. Currently, vinyl sheet pile walls are being created as elements that constitute an alternative to walls. tight steel. Another example of the use of composite materials in building materials and structures is the use of composite bars as replacement reinforcement for steel when constructing monolithic ceilings. The use of composite bars as reinforcing bars can now be found in every field of construction. Elements that can be made from reinforcing bar include: foundations, walls, ring beams, ceilings, floors or as repair elements for reinforced concrete structures. Composite rods fit perfectly into the canons currently perceived by modern society, achieving features for the sustainable development of construction. These rods can have a positive impact on the construction market, not only due to the environment in which they can be located, but also by extending their service life and reducing operating costs. At the same time, it meets the features of a sustainable building, which are: a healthy and comfortable environment for users, savings, use of resources, avoidance of toxic emissions, reduction of the amount of waste produced, and the use of environmentally friendly materials. The amount of construction waste increases with the development of construction. Various recycling methods allow for the management and reuse of waste that is generated, which helps protect the environment. A way to use the waste generated is the "downcycling" method, where a larger amount of waste can be directed as a raw material for reuse with reduced values, which does not mean worse. One of such materials is concrete, which has a positive impact on the ecological and economic aspects of the current environment. Unlike the previous method, the "upcycling" method aims to increase the value of the processed raw material, such materials may be re-melted steel or plastics.
STRATEGIES FOR MINIMIZING PAPER USAGE IN LATVIA MUNICIPALITIES
Authors: Abele Lilita , Rivza Baiba , Rivza Peteris , Jermolajeva Elita
Published: April 2024

Statistical data, as well as public reports and comments from industry experts, show that the transition of local governments to the digitisation of internal processes has several challenges, mainly related to ensuring sustainability, reducing the impact on the environment, data security, and technical maintenance [2,3]. Therefore, it is essential to assess the situation in local governments and choose the most appropriate support system for Latvia's situation, which would not only be financial support. In public and expert discussions, different visions of the necessary support tools and benefits from the transition of local governments to the digitalisation of internal processes appear. One of the main benefits is reducing paper, which diminishes recycling and resource consumption [5, 6, 11]. The readiness of local government employees for the transition to digitalisation of internal processes has already been written about in previous studies. This study developed four possible scenarios for supporting municipalities in the transition process, and a group of seven experts was selected for their evaluation. The expert survey was conducted in June and July 2023. Five factors influencing the transition were offered for expert evaluation: Technical infrastructure, socialpsychological aspects, legal, security and data protection elements, financial resources, sustainability, and environmental factors. For each group of factors, three factors were suggested to be ranked in order of importance. Then, using the four previously developed support scenarios, the most suitable one was searched using the multi-criteria decision-making method, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The research uses expert surveys, analytical hierarchy process analysis, and statistical data processing methods. As a result of the study, the most suitable support scenario for Latvian municipalities was determined, moving to the digitisation of internal management processes and reducing paper consumption.
STUDIES ON THE INFLUENCE OF ANIMAL WASTE ON SOIL FERTILITY. CASE STUDY - PIG SLURRY
Authors: Brei Liliana , Berbecea Adina , Floares Doris , Vicar Nicoleta , Radulov Isidora
Published: April 2024

The use of pig slurry as fertilizer has a clear impact on farm-level energy input requirements, being a correct and natural way of its decomposition and also contributing to the reducing of the amount of chemical fertilizers used, which, in addition to the high cost, may leads to the pollution of the areas where they are applied. Swine sludge could provide between 38 and 61% of the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in chemical fertilizer. The purpose of the work is to determine the changes that the application of pig sludge, as a fertilizing resource, has on some soil fertility indicators, such as: pH, organic carbon content, C/N ratio and the content of nitrate and ammonium ions. The experiments in the field were carried out on a soil with low fertility, in the pedoclimatic conditions of the western part of Romania. The sludge was applied in doses between 80 and 95 mc/ha, for 4 consecutive years, resulting in acidification of the soil, an increase in the organic carbon content, but also in the content of nitrate ions in the soil. Considering both its fertilizer value and the increasing cost of chemical fertilizers, the economic value of slurry is beyond doubt.
THE COSTS AND RATE OF RETURN CALCULATION OF THE NEW ESTABLISHED PIG AND POULTRY MANURE FERMENTATION PLANT
Authors: Csiba Anita , Ferencz Arpad
Published: April 2024

Nowadays the manure management is a very actually topic. There is an important part of it the manure processing technology. However, we need for it a manure fermentation plant with an adequate capacity and there is important, the processing plant must be near for the pig and poultry farm to process the manure as soon as possible to reduce the harmful emission and bind the valuable nutrients in the fermented manure. The new established processing plant added advantages, that their produces excellent qualities and huge quantities fermented pig a poultry manure as a final products, which can be sold for good price, thus increasing the company�s profit. There is all allows for the fastest return on the investment. In our study we calculated the investment costs of the pig and poultry manure fermentation plant and the return based on the estimated expected revenues from the sales of manufactured final products. However, it is important not only in terms of additional income and return, but also in terms of reducing harmful emissions required by the stricter directives and regulations of the European Union, in order, that the companies able to comply with the increasingly strict of the European Union�s regulations and thus to be able to access resources in the future.
THE ROLE OF INVESTMENT AND INNOVATION POLICY IN THE FORMATION OF A CIRCULAR ECONOMY
Authors: Simanavicius Arturas , Abele Lilita , Smordov Borys
Published: April 2024

Pursuing sustainability in a rapidly changing global landscape has necessitated a paradigm shift in economic models. At the forefront of this transformation is the Circular Economy, characterized by the continuous reuse, recycling, and remanufacturing of products and materials, which has gained prominence as a means to address pressing environmental challenges while fostering economic growth. This research explores the interplay between the circular economy, innovation, investment, and social responsibility. These four pillars are essential components of a unified approach to achieving a circular economy through a project management approach. The impact is determined using a survey of ten experts from different sectors of Ukraine, who were surveyed electronically in 2023 from May to August. The Kendell correlation method assessed the extent of expert consensus to present survey results. As a result of the research, an algorithm for implementing the circular economy is proposed innovatively, ensuring companies implement material recycling and create industrial symbioses more successfully. This study aims to guide companies and interested parties in bringing the circular economy to life by ensuring material recycling from light industrial plants.
ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE INTERPLAY BETWEEN ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND SOBRIETY: LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE ITALIAN EXPERIENCES OF L' AQUILA RUGBY ASSOCIATION AND COMMUNITY COOPERATIVE MELPIGNANO
Authors: Giardini Gianna
Published: April 2024

n the EU's perspective, energy efficiency is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy consumption and contribute to the fight against climate change. Recent studies have shown that energy efficiency alone is not sufficient to achieve sustainable development goals. The real challenge is to combine energy efficiency with energy sobriety. This work aims at raising a debate about the relationship between energy efficiency and energy sobriety and at studying how the principle of sobriety works. In particular, the objective of this paper is to investigate how the principle of sobriety is expressed in the acts of private autonomy and to show how civil law relationships, inspired by the principle of energy sobriety and thus subject to a positive �control of merit�, can contribute to a bottom-up, just and inclusive energy transition and to adaptation to climate change, in accordance with the objectives of the European Green Deal, the EU Adaptation Strategy and, more generally, the UN 2030 Agenda (Goals 7, 11, 13). This paper uses legal institutes and arguments of "civil law and constitutional legality" applied to energy and links them to real-life experiences with a normative approach. The work also has to be considered as the outcome of an empirical analysis of two case studies: L'Aquila Rugby Association, Centre Italy; Cooperativa di Comunita in Melpignano, Southern Italy.
ANALYSIS OF METEOROLOGICAL PARAMETERS AND CLIMATE VARIABILITY IN THE WESTERN PART OF ROMANIA IN THE PERIOD 2010-2020
Authors: Chis Ana-Codruta , Marazan Vlad , Cozma Antoanela , Mircov Vlad Dragoslav , Durau Carmen Claudia
Published: April 2024

Through mathematical modeling at the local or regional level, local or zonal trends for meteorological factors can be determined and the main hazards to which elements of the infrastructure, the economy and the population are exposed. In the present study, a statistical analysis was aimed at trying to determine the analysis of variability and climate change in the western part of Romania and a statistical correlation between the temperature variation and the amounts of precipitation recorded at the Timisoara weather station. By interpolating the mathematical methods with the observational methods used in operational meteorology, it was possible to establish some correlations regarding the seasons and climatological periods. It is noted that there is a tendency to shift the cold season from the months of December - January - February to the spring season. Thus, it can be observed from the statistical processing presented, that the winter months for the western part of Romania extend from the third decade of January to the beginning of April. By using several analysis parameters and by integrating all levels of the troposphere (lower, middle and upper), a clear picture can be drawn on the dynamics of the atmosphere and on the influence that the main semi- permanent pressure centers have on the climate variability in the area of western Romania. The interpolation between the statistical analysis and the meteorological analysis revealed significant features in what means the shift from the winter season to the spring months.
CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION APP FOR SUSTAINABLE CITIES USING URBAN GREEN DATA FOR CO2 ABSORPTION
Authors: Papagiannopoulou Dimitra , Tsitsoni Thekla , Andreopoulou Zacharoula , Xanthopoulou Vasiliki Tsitsoni , Morfopoulos Nikolas
Published: April 2024

Sustainable cities are urban center engineered to improve their environmental impact through proper urban planning and management. The implementation of green infrastructures is one of the most important characteristics in sustainable cities. Urban green areas play a basic role in the socio-economic development and in the sustainability of the cities. Climate change is one of the factors that needs to be into consideration during the design of sustainable cities, as it constitutes a major problem that humanity has to face. Urban green areas could contribute to mitigate the effects of climate change to cities� adaptation to these effects. Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have an important role in addressing the major challenges related to climate change and sustainable development. They are tools that can be used for the monitoring of climate change, such as the absorption of CO2 by urban trees, the mitigation of its effects contributing to the development of the urban green economy. These tools promote new improved relationships between cities and natural environment. Main aim of this paper is to provide the CO2 absorption by urban green areas taking into account the data that entered in the online application which was constructed in the framework of the European project LIFE CliVut (Climate Value of Urban Trees) LIFE18 GIC/IT/001217.
CLIMATE CHANGE VULNERABILITY, MITIGATION, AND ADAPTATION FOR A LARGE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT IN ROMANIA
Authors: Nicolae Raluca Ioana , Nicolae Petru
Published: April 2024

The increasing impacts of climate change have necessitated a comprehensive reassessment of large infrastructure projects, particularly highways, to ensure their resilience and sustainability. The article focuses on the analysis of climate change vulnerability, mitigation measures, and adaptation strategies within the context of a major highway project in Romania. With climate change accelerating, highways in Romania are becoming increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events, shifting precipitation patterns, temperature fluctuations, and related environmental changes. The paper highlights key findings from vulnerability assessments, emphasizing the project's exposure to climate-induced risks and its implications for the highway's infrastructure. Mitigating the impact of climate change is a fundamental objective for this highway project. The article discusses mitigation efforts, which include minimizing greenhouse gas emissions during construction and operation phases, incorporating sustainable construction materials, and adopting energy-efficient technologies and practices. These measures align with Romania's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Also, the paper outlines adaptation measures, such as engineering design solutions to withstand extreme weather events, the integration of flexible design elements, and the establishment of climate monitoring and early warning systems to mitigate disruptions. In conclusion, the article underscores the urgency of integrating climate change vulnerability assessments, mitigation measures, and adaptation strategies into the planning and construction of highways in Romania. By adopting a comprehensive approach that addresses climate-related challenges, this highway project aims to contribute to a sustainable, resilient, and environmentally conscious transportation network for the country.
CLUB CONVERGENCE IN ENERGY TRANSITION OF EU MEMBER STATES
Authors: Popescu Claudia , Covrig Mihaela
Published: April 2024

The European Union stands apart through its ambitious blueprint to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. Playing a pivotal role within this process, the energy transition in EU is challenged by the trilemma of supply security, competitiveness and sustainability. Historical contingencies and contextual factors trigger different evolutionary trajectories in terms of temporalities and geographies. Testing the club convergence hypothesis, studies addressed the heterogeneity of EU member states either from energy or environmental perspectives. Our study relying on two streams of research on club convergence and core-periphery model is set to provide: (1) an up-to-date assessment of energy transition pathways pursued by EU members; and (2) a comprehensive outlook based on multiple variables to capture the economic, environmental, energy, social and policy dimensions of energy transition. We employ time-series data issued by EUROSTAT at the level of EU-27 national economies from 2015 (Climate Paris Agreement) to 2021 (European Green Deal). The analysis is based on the measurement of absolute, conditional and relative convergence to test the assumption that EU member states are organized into convergence clubs along core-periphery patterns. Absolute and conditional beta convergence, as well as sigma convergence have been confirmed by data, and five convergence clubs have been identified. However, their membership does not confirm the core-periphery theory in its classical tenets; it rather reflects multiple energy transition paths. We intent to contribute to the scholarship on climate and energy aiming to endorse informed policy across EU.
DATA SET ANALYSIS OF THE COMPOSITE MATERIALS WITH THIN PROFILE USING DESCRIPTIVE STATISTICS
Authors: Mihai Carmen , Vladu Alina Florentina , Ene Alexandra Gabriela , Dinca Laurentiu
Published: April 2024

Composite materials are widely used in high-tech fields of industry, especially in the aeronautical and aerospace industry, land and water transport. Weight reduction, high creep resistance, very good damping deformations compared to traditional materials, represent some of the advantages for these materials� usage. The studies carried out aim to determine the evolution of the physical-mechanical characteristics of a composite material with a thickness of less than 1 mm, using descriptive statistics techniques. In this context, the following four differentiated systems were tested in the accredited laboratories: CM � continuous structure composite material, P1 joined panel (the upper mark on the weft direction and the lower one tilted at 45� - Method 1), P2 joined panel (the upper mark on the warp direction and the lower one tilted at 45� - Method 2), P3 joined panel (both marks on the weft direction). The analysis report drawn up for 13 variables with the help of a specialized software evidenced that the series are very homogeneous, with little variation, the average being representative. Also, 60% of the values of the studied characteristics are placed between the 75th percentile and the maximum value, and the boxplot graphs demonstrated a very low variability of the results. The subsequent experiments will be carried out under real conditions of use, the functional model being placed on an IAR330 or SOCAT helicopter.