bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Infrastructure, innovation and industry as solutions for breaking inequality vicious cycles
Authors: Josa Irene , Aguado Antonio 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Currently, poverty and inequality are crucial social issues around the world. They demand objective evaluations with the purpose of defining policies and prioritizing actions. Most of the times the most important problem lies on the fact that individuals under poverty circumstances or belonging to vulnerable collectives cannot escape these conditions by themselves and need external assistance or interventions. Another added difficulty is that both poverty and inequality can be studied from different angles and require a multidimensional approach whose definition is not straightforward. There exists a vicious cycle defined by a collection of determinants or events that lead to a phenomenon in which various disadvantages work circularly so that it is impossible for individuals or households to break the cycle.
In this context, setting the background in which these vicious cycles arise can be helpful in order to conduct in-depth studies as a first step to establishing possible solutions. Even though many researchers have proposed alternative schemes for the poverty’s vicious circle, none has been introduced for inequality. In this contribution, a meaningful and integrated cycle is defined for inequality at two different levels: first of all, at an individual level; secondly, at a collective level in which a certain group is made vulnerable. This cycle includes similar parameter as those comprised in the poverty cycle such as income, access to education and access to healthcare. However, it additionally places emphasis on other aspects such as participation in politics and access to leadership positions.
Besides, a conceptual and analytical framework is built, whose objective is to describe ways in which infrastructure, innovation and industry can help interrupt the continuation of the cycle. This model integrates a collection of different measures that is to be potentially helpful for policy makers. Additionally, the frame accounts for not only the fight of current existing cycles, but also of future generations ones, hence considering sustainability dimensions.
Identify Optimal Renovation Packages for Residential Buildings: A State-of-the-Art Computational Model
Authors: Kharseh Mohamad , Nägeli Claudio , Wallbaum Holger 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Renovating the existing building stock has a significant potential to achieve the goal of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the European Union. However, a common European renovation project focuses primarily on improving the thermal performance of the building shell by adding insulation to the opaque surfaces and improve the thermal performance of the windows. The potentially positive contribution of renewable energies (RE) in balance with energy efficiency measures is often underestimated. Consequently, a more holistic approach can contribute to a reduction in total net energy demand up to 40-45% for the entire buildings sector. Thus, in order to achieve the goal of GHG emission reduction in an economic most responsible way, the share of RE in a renovation project needs to be increased. However, building renovation projects are becoming - apparently - more complicated if more factors are considered in the planning of a renovation project. Thus, a computational tool for evaluating hundreds of different renovation options, including the implementations of renewable energy resources, to obtain an optimal or nearly optimal set of renovation options is essential. Therefore, a novel planning tool has been developed within the framework of DREEAM project, a project funded by the European Union within the Horizon 2020 research framework. The DREEAM-Tool has been designed in the way that it helps designers and other stakeholders to plan a renovation project of a single building or even on a multi-building scale. The tool was built in the way to optimize the renovation project taking into consideration the most critical factors in planning and decision-making processes, such as the economic or environmental performance. In other words, the tool combines an energy calculation model for a building or multiple building with an economic and environmental assessment to identify and optimize the most beneficial refurbishment solutions. The current study presents the concept of the DREEAM-Tool and shows examples of how the optimal renovation packages of a considered building will be determined and how this will support designers or buildings owners in decision-making processes.
Primary energy and CO2 emissions implications of different insulation, cladding and frame materials for residential buildings
Authors: Ayikoe Tettey Uniben Yao , Gustavsson Leif 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
In this study, we analyse and compare the primary energy use and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions associated with different insulation, cladding and frame materials for a constructed concrete frame multi-storey residential building in Sweden. Our approach consists of identifying individual materials giving the lowest primary energy use and CO2 emissions for each building envelope part and based on that, modelling different material combinations to achieve improved alternatives of the concrete frame building with the same operation energy use based on the Swedish building code or passive house criteria. We analyse the complete materials and energy chains, including material losses as well as conversion and fuel cycle losses. The analysis covers the primary energy use to extract, process, transport, and assemble the materials and the resulting CO2 emissions to the atmosphere. The results show wide variations in primary energy and CO2 emissions depending on the choice of building envelope materials. The materials for external walls contribute most to the primary energy and CO2 emissions, followed by foundation, roof and external cladding materials. The improved building alternatives with wood construction frames, wood external cladding, expanded polystyrene as foundation insulation and cellulose insulation in the external walls and roof result in about 36 - 40% lower production primary energy use and 42 – 49% lower CO2 emissions than the improved concrete alternative when achieving the same thermal performance. This study suggests that strategies for low-energy buildings should be combined with resource-efficient and low carbon materials in the production phase to mitigate climate change and achieve a sustainable built environment.
Off-Grid Systems
Authors: Pollock E , Kaur H , Shinde R , Batineih S , Dandapath A 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
The term sustainability is frequently associated with our future cities. However, in the most remote and unprivileged corners of the world off-grid systems have already established a new dimension for sustainability. With no infrastructure nor grid connections, off-grid systems offer a way to be self-sustainable and thrive with the least resources. If dealt with proper planning and caution, off-grid systems can be beneficial on a large scale and can also contribute to local integrated networks.
Off-grid systems exist in various forms such as electricity generation, bioenergy, off-grid housing, etc. As sustainability is of global interest the issue of off-grid is reviewed globally in remote locations of India and Jordan. The latest advancements in technology are considered.
Social, economic, and environmental sustainability are central themes of consideration. This paper displays how off-grid systems are advantageous in terms of the basic needs of life e.g. shelter, energy, and food. Included are a wide array of crucial case studies in different continents. The main case studies include biogas plants, and solar electricity in India and Zaatari refugee camp in Jordan.
Optimum tank size for a rainwater harvesting system: Case study for Northern Cyprus
Authors: Ruso Mustafa , Akıntuğ Bertuğ , Kentel Elçin 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
The available freshwater is limited on earth. On the other hand, available water resources on earth have been depleting and being polluted due to climate change and population growth. In order to reduce the risk of water scarcity and water resources contamination, Integrated water resources management (IWRM) is required. IWRM is a concept to manage water resources that aims to balance economic efficiency, social equity, and environmental sustainability. When rainwater harvesting systems (RWHS), one of the techniques of IWRM, are implemented, the stress on water resources is reduced. Since the installation cost of rainwater harvesting systems significantly depends on the size of the rainwater storage tanks, in the implementation of rainwater harvesting, the selection of tank size is one of the main concerns for the feasibility of the system. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of domestic rainwater harvesting systems for a single house. In order to find the optimum storage tank size of the rainwater harvesting system, a linear programming (LP) optimization model is employed. As a case study, the LP model is applied to six regions from semi-arid Eastern Mediterranean island Northern Cyprus, where water resources are limited. The model considers thirty-seven years monthly rainfall data, the roof area of the building, the water consumption per capita, the discount rate, the cost of the rainwater storage tank, and the number of residents. The results of the selected study areas show that the implementation of the RWHS for a single house is infeasible due to the substantial installation costs and maintenance expenses. The financial losses caused by the implementation of the RWHS are found higher than the installation costs and maintenance expenses for all regions. In addition to economic analyses, environmental benefits of the RWHS should be included into the feasibility analysis.
Resource strategies - discussions on remodelling modernistic housing and related social impacts
Authors: Vestergaard Inge , Moseng Kari , Jensen Birgitte Geert 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
A growing tendency to remodel social housing areas can actually be recognized in the Nordic countries. The paper analyses a case where a vulnerable modernistic housing area is remodelled based on social arguments. Through findings it is discussed how more responsible circular strategies can save the inhabitants and the environment from ‘wasting’ already valuable welfare and already existing spatial structures and materials. The starting point is taken in the actual transformation of Gellerup, a New Town area built from 1968 to 1972 in Aarhus. A dramatic demolition has already taken place to avoid social disorder. This was done to provide room for rethinking, for changes in demography and for mixed ownership, and thereby solve several social problems. The process is under development, but already before this remodelling has finished and will perhaps fulfil its purpose, the government and the city council have predicted further demolishment. The tenants are increasingly reacting to this development, which erases their homes and the history of Gellerup. The loss of the areas memories and the fact that they feel they are not involved in decisions regarding their area worry them.
Do Town Planners in England feel a professional responsibility for a climate-resilient built environment?
Authors: Murtagh N , Odeleye ND , Maidment C 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
With global warming already underway and the sense of urgency around climate breakdown growing, delivery of a resilient built environment is critical. Town planners are crucial intermediaries in this work but there is little recent work in the UK exploring their role in climate change resilience. In addressing the gap, the objective of the study was to examine resilience and professional identity of town planners. Interviews were conducted with 19 planners working in England who had at least seven years’ experience. Thematic analysis of the data found a strong professional and public service identity but little awareness of resilience. Many participants were unfamiliar with the concept, with the exception of specific actions such as planning for flood protection, and almost none were aware of resilience thinking incorporating conceptualisation of places as complex, interconnected, dynamic systems. We conclude that the built environment in England is not being prepared for imminent and future climate risks, and that the gaps on climate-resilience pose a threat to the profession’s jurisdiction.
BIM and Energy Efficiency training requirement for the construction industry
Authors: Suwal Sunil , Laukkanen Maaria , Jäväjä Päivi , Häkkinen Tarja , Kubicki Sylvain 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Construction industry has a wide impact to our built environment. It plays a vital role for governments and supports in both developed and developing economies. The industry supports economic growth of a nation through various trades and activities as well as provides new jobs. It is one of the largest industrial sectors that has a projected output of 13.5% by 2025. Climate change, resource depletion and rapid urbanization are the most severe amongst the challenges we face today. The construction industry alone is responsible for 20% of the global energy consumption and approximately one-third of energy-related CO2 emissions. The industry entails the high energy saving potentials and provides various opportunities to implement sustainable solutions to decrease the environmental impacts and thus lower greenhouse gas emissions. In the construction projects today, we can implement different energy efficiency strategies and products virtually during the planning phases of the construction projects using model based environment and tools commonly known today as virtual design and construction (VDC) as well as building information modeling (BIM). We can accurately simulate and calculate the impacts and thus support the increasing demand of complex high-performance buildings in order to effectively address energy and carbon reduction targets. However, one of the key challenges, the industry faces is the availability of skilled workforce and experts that have enough BIM and energy efficiency skills. The paper addresses such needs and presents the current status of a H2020 project with a focus on defining roles and responsibilities construction project stakeholders have for the energy efficiency measures along the different project phases. It also provides an outlook for the development of the learning outcomes based on knowledge, skills and competence (KSC) framework as well as systematically presents the base for harmonization of the learning outcomes at the EU level.
HOUSING: Dense, high-rise buildings with green, low carbon solutions. Case study: Santiago, Chile.
Authors: Pollock E , Romano S , Kareco J 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Considering the international relevance of sustainability, Chile has implemented several regulations in the housing area during the last years through the Ministry of Housing and Urbanism. The goal of these regulations is to improve the performance of Chilean cities regarding the three pillars of sustainability (social, economic and environmental). Santiago, as the capital of Chile and the focus of this research, has defined different methods to apply these regulations. However, this city still has challenges to implement them, such as environmental pollution, social segregation and the lack of economic and natural sources. There are different alternatives to overcome the challenges to implement the new sustainable housing guidelines in Santiago, one of them is to rethink the current density, high and sustainable solutions that the buildings have. The main objective of this paper is to describe and analyse the situation of the housing in Santiago considering the density, high-rise buildings with green guidelines and low carbon solutions as analysis parameters. The methodology established to achieve this objective is exploratory-descriptive with the literature review technique. The partial results illustrate that despite the benefits that represent the incorporation of new guidelines related to the increase in density and high-rise and low carbon solutions in housing projects of Santiago, it is important to consider that not all of these are applicable to this city. Each territory has its features (weather, culture, resources and norms), which determine the requirements that the projects need and the real possibilities to implement changes.
Interaction of obligatory regulations and voluntary ecolabels for climate change mitigation in the Finnish building sector
Authors: Holopainen R , Airaksinen M , Bergbom K , Vaarala H 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
This paper compares the existing Nordic Swan Ecolabel criteria for new buildings with the National Building Code of Finland. The added value of the ecolabelling is presented and the role of the ecolabelling as a test bed for upcoming building regulations is introduced.
Development of a Measuring Tool for Walkability in the Street Scale - the case study of Hamburg
Authors: Fallahranjbar Nasimeh , Dietrich Udo , Pohlan Joerg 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
The humanistic approach is a key principle of any urban development with the aim of urban quality improvement. A healthy environment is fundamentally associated with walkable communities. According to a study in 2016 from the Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) and the Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit at the University of Cambridge, the health benefits of walking and cycling override the negative impacts of air pollution on health even in highly polluted cities. Additionally, planning walkable cities promote low carbon emission developments. Measuring walkability of the streets makes it possible for the planners and experts to address the quality of the built environment. This paper reports a practical assessment tool, developed in a master thesis, based on decisive walkability features by applying a weighting system to score those features in order to achieve a tangible outcome. For this reason, an examined weighting system from a previous study led by the Institute of Urban Planning and the University of Duisburg-Essen is optimized. Afterward, the proposed tool is applied for measuring the walkability in a selection of different streets in Hamburg, in order to answer the questions of how these Hamburg’s streets differ in their degree of walkability and how their walkability can be improved.
Dynamic of Balkhash lake level under climate change conditions
Authors: Cherednichenko A V , Cherednichenko Al V , Cherednichenko V S , Storozhenko N D , Kozhachmetova E P , Kupchishin A I , Abdrahimov R G 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
The dynamics of the level of Lake Balkhash in conditions of climate change is considered. It is shown that the undisturbed runoff: the rise (decline) of the level occurs during the entire time that the annual amount of precipitation is above (below) the norm. The maximum (minimum) is observed at the moment when the parabola crosses the line of norm from the period of excess (shortage) of precipitation to deficiency (excess) of precipitation.
The mathematical modeling and monitoring for process of a biological sewage treatment
Authors: Kudryavtsev V A , Rychkov S L , Shatrov A V 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
The urgency of present problem is caused by necessity of operative control of biological sewage treatment processes. At present these processes are realizing in aeration tanks of sewage treatment plants both municipal and of large enterprises. A process of biological treatment is being checked by chemical analysis practically by hand. By the way a duration of checking procedure is commensurable with the time the sewage water is passing through an aeration tank. Thus any operative control of sewage treatment is practically impossible. In the present work it is proposed to use for operative control the hardware- software complex (HSC) AQUATEST-AT4M, that is able to produce an analysis of water quality in some minutes. By the way the measurement data give an opportunity to identify a mathematical model of these biological sewage treatment. In this work there are presented the results of experiments and of mathematical modelling of work of the Kirov City communal systems sewage treatment plants (KCS STP).
Forming of minimum water content in the rivers of the Upper Don basin
Authors: Dmitrieva V A , Buchik S V 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
The article analyses, on the example of the river Bityug - Bobrov (Verkhniy Don, Voronezh Region), the dynamics of the absolute low water minimums of the low-water run-off. It demonstrates that, in the current century, due to the increase in summer-autumn and winter water content, the dates of absolute minimums of runoff have been shifting (rounded up to a month) for later periods of summer-autumn and earlier periods of winter low water. The highest recurrence of absolute minimums of the winter low water falls on January, and of the summer-autumn low-water - on September.
The analysis of the long – term dynamic of the amount of atmospheric precipitation on the territory of the republic of Bashkortostan
Authors: Galimova R , Silantyev K 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
The article presents the analysis of long-term dynamics of the amounts of atmospheric precipitation on the territory of the Republic of Bashkortostan for the 30 meteorological stations for the period between 1966 and 2015. The territorial patterns in the distribution of precipitation, the analysis of time variability were described. The trend analysis was used to analyse the time variability, the tendencies on the Republic and its separate regions were revealed. The authors made an attempt to link interannual changes with indices of atmospheric circulation.
Soil vibrations as a reliable recorded characteristic of geodynamics in the dam area of a large hydroelectric power station
Authors: Shumakova E A , Trubetskova M D 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
The paper considers geodynamic within the area of the Zhigulievskaya hydroelectric power station: the signs of present activity of the Zhiguli fault including soil vibrations during water discharges that demonstrate instability of geological environment, the atmospheric phenomena, the risks for the dam and reservoir caused by the activation of geodynamics.
External water exchange of reservoirs of South Ural
Authors: Vtorova A I , Myakisheva N V , Gorbatenko A A 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Reservoirs are building worldwide for the rational usage of water resources. Engineers create reservoirs for redistribution of runoff both in seasonal and multi-annual regime. The duration of stay of river water in slow water exchange condition is one of the major factors which influences the transformation of the river water and the formation of water resources, which are specific to reservoirs. External water exchange of reservoirs is one the major hydrological and hydro-ecological characteristics. Value of water exchange defines the formation of water mass with determinate properties. Identification of the characteristics intensity of external water exchange of reservoirs allows to make an estimation of the processes under way in the system “river-reservoir” and to decide limnological tasks taking into account the change of climate. The definition of the typical differences taking into account anthropogenic interference in these conditions is especially valid.