Articles from Science for Environment Policy

`Self-fuelling´ method could reduce GHGs from oil shale
A potential method for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with extracting energy from oil shale has been highlighted by a recent study. A `self-fuelling´ method that recycles waste gas could cut GHGs emissions by 50% compared to the conventional oil shale product and 70% compared to crude oil. Download article (PDF)

Clarifying the limits of European coastal waters
Researchers attempting to establish the limits of coastal waters in Europe have found that national declarations of coastal waters contain a number of inconsistencies regarding the definition from the Water Framework Directive. In particular, the national declarations over-estimated the area of coastal waters by almost 12% overall, which could affect the results of ecological assessments required by several major EU environmental policies. Download article (PDF)

The impacts of global crop production on water and land use
A new study has estimated the water consumption and land use for the production of 160 crops that constitute most of the world´s cropland. The results suggest that, collectively, wheat, rice, cotton, maize and sugar cane account for 49% of water scarcity and 42% of land resource stress caused by worldwide crop production. Download article (PDF)

Local knowledge is key to sustainable forestry
The only way to establish a long-lasting and effective strategy for forest management is through collaboration between `conventional´ scientists and local experts, according to new research. Download article (PDF)

New public-private partnerships will achieve a green economy
A new report highlights the connections between climate change risks and opportunities, sustainable development and climate change adaptation, to provide a useful guidance for business and policymakers in creating a green economy. It suggests that businesses are an essential partner in preparing for and responding to the impacts of climate change. Download article (PDF)

Sloping smooth roofs prove best for rainwater harvesting
Collecting, or `harvesting´ rainwater may help society cope with a number of problems, such as water shortages, flooding and the degradation of urban streams. Urban roofs make up about half of the total sealed surface (`unnatural´ surfaces, which cover over natural surfaces, such as soil) in cities and contribute the most to stormwater run-off, which could be harvested for other purposes. To maximise this potential, it is useful to know which type of roof can harvest the greatest amount of good quality water. Download article (PDF)