Articles from Science for Environment Policy

Taxes on natural resources reduce use of raw materials
A recent study has investigated how taxes on virgin raw materials used in construction, such as gravel and sand, have reduced the use of these resources, based on experiences in Denmark, Sweden and the UK. However, greater incentives to recycle these materials are still needed, says the study. Download article (PDF)

At what cost recovery? Estimating the cost of natural disasters
When natural disasters, such as earthquakes, storms and hurricanes, are reported in the media, they are often accompanied by an assessment of the cost of the disaster. While such information can be useful to help governments and international organisations target aid and recovery efforts, the details of what is included in the assessment, and the methods used, are often unclear. Download article (PDF)

Greater recognition of ecosystem services needed for food security
Global food security under a changing climate is possible if the vital role of healthy ecosystems is recognised, according to a recent study. The researchers suggest that an ecosystem-based approach must be integrated with other measures to tackle food security under climate change, to protect ecosystems and supply the essential services on which humanity depends. Download article (PDF)

Particle fragments: an overlooked hazard of oil and gas exploration
Fragments of crushed rock released into the ocean during oil and gas exploration can physically bury organisms that live on the seafloor, accounting for 55% of offshore drilling´s environmental impact, according to a recent study. To allow more informed marine policy decisions, this physical impact must be recognised alongside the impact of chemicals released in drilling waste. Download article (PDF)

Water for microalgae cultivation has significant energy requirements
A substantial amount of energy is needed to manage all the water used in the mass cultivation of microalgae for biodiesel. A recent study suggests that seven times more energy is required to manage the water, than is delivered by the biodiesel when it is used as fuel. Download article (PDF)

A new way to predict urban noise pollution
Noise pollution in urban areas can harm our physical and mental wellbeing, and can have damaging effects on urban wildlife. Now, researchers from China have shown for the first time how a `land use regression method´ can be used to model urban noise and predict the effects of future planning decisions on noise levels. Download article (PDF)

Waste control to boost GHG reduction targets
Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from municipal waste in Europe could be reduced by 62 million tonnes, or 1.23% of total emissions in 2008, by 2020 if the diversion targets of the EU Landfill Directive are fully met, according to a recent report. This could be largely achieved through reducing methane emissions from landfill and increased recycling levels. Download article (PDF)