Modelling uncertain adaptive decisions: Application to KwaZulu-Natal sugarcane growers

A dynamic Bayesian decision network was developed to model the pre- harvest burning decision-making processes of sugarcane growers in a KwaZulu-Natal sugarcane supply chain and extends previous work by Price et al. (2018). This model was created using an iterative development approach. This paper recounts the development and validation process of the third version of the model. The model was vali- dated using Pitchforth and Mengersen (2013)’s framework for validating expert elicited Bayesian networks. During this process, growers and cane supply members assessed the model in a focus group by executing the model, and reviewing the results of a pre- run scenario. The participants were generally positive about how the model represented their decision-making processes. However, they identified some issues that could be addressed in the next iteration. Dynamic Bayesian decision networks offer a promising approach to modelling adaptive decisions in uncertain conditions. This model can be used to simulate the cognitive mechanism for a grower agent in a simulation of a sugarcane supply chain

Myth or reality? – Assessing the suitability of biodegradable plastics within a circular bioeconomy framework

The proposition of a circular bioeconomy framework was introduced as a means of moving from a fossil-based to bio-based economy. With an emphasis on resource efficiency and waste valorisation, it has supported the development of biodegradable bioplastics (BBPs), notably in food packaging applications. Designed to be treated alongside organic waste, BBPs open new streams for plastic waste management within the food-energy-waste nexus, but their suitability in the current social, policy and sustainability landscape remains to be determined. Taking a systems-thinking approach, this thesis explores the compatibility of (certified) BBP packaging under a circular bioeconomy framework, focusing on a co-mingled food and BBP waste stream for anaerobic co-digestion. It uncovers major technical, policy and social challenges and urges for caution when deploying these novel plastic packaging materials on the consumer market. Chapter 1 provides a brief introduction to BBPs and their framing in the wider context of plastic sustainability and organic waste management, followed by aims and objectives in Chapter 2. Chapter 3 provides a comprehensive literature review, depicting the importance and ubiquity of plastics, their environmental impact and the role BBPs could play in a circular bioeconomy framework from a systems-thinking perspective. Chapter 4 details the anaerobic co-digestion treatment of different BBPs with food waste and the impact of BBPs on biogas and methane yields and on microbial communities. The need for consistent experimental design of co-digestion trials is also discussed. Guided by these results, Chapter 5 presents the outcomes of a stakeholder study on attitudes towards BBPs in the current waste management infrastructure and policy landscape to explore how BBPs are perceived and managed on-the-ground in the United Kingdom. Chapters 6 & 7 build on a major finding from the stakeholder study, which outlined the importance of consumers in enabling circularity in the system. Chapter 6 covers a systems framework developed to identify and structure systemic factors that influence how consumers interact with BBP packaging, with a focus on disposal routes. The framework is then applied in practice, based on a survey conducted at two academic institutions, and the role of contextual setting is explored through a comparative case study presented in Chapter 7. Chapter 8 extends the debate on the suitability of BBPs further upstream in the value chain and consumption system and addresses the functional properties of BBP packaging in the context of a shelf-life study, anchoring BBPs in the food system they are embedded within. Chapter 9 summarises key findings and suggests future research related to this thesis. The Appendix contains supplementary figures and data for Chapters 4-8.Open Acces

QUT Research Graduates Yearbook, 2021

HDR research activity remains at the heart of QUT’s real world research ambitions and our HDR cohort is one of the key the engine rooms of our innovation pipeline. In 2021, our HDR cohort showed great resilence in a world that continues to be challenged by a pandemic, complex international relations and an increasingly fractured world. Our HDR students find answers to questions that touch the very fundamentals of the human existence.and its embedding into our societies, explore ways towards innovative health solutions, understand the complexities of nature from the very small to planetary and extra-terrestrial dimensions on a fundamental level and engineer the innovations that support a sustainable environment. QUT will continue to place great importance on the HDR journey including both the research and career development components. Our graduates continue to take up leadership position ranging from industry to government agencies to academia in Australia and abroad, enabling positive change. We are continuously striving to enhance our HDR experience and research leaders across our schools, centers, faculties and divisions continue to work in partnership with our HDR cohort to maximize their impact. The year ahead will continue to challenge us as a society and a global community on several fronts, thus resilience building remains a key learning outcome for our HDR students, enabling them to thrive in pushing the boundaries of knowledge forward. I hope you enjoy the read. (Professor Christopher Barner-Kowollik Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Research

IDEAS-1997-2021-Final-Programs

This document records the final program for each of the 26 meetings of the International Database and Engineering Application Symposium from 1997 through 2021. These meetings were organized in various locations on three continents. Most of the papers published during these years are in the digital libraries of IEEE(1997-2007) or ACM(2008-2021)

Cuban energy futures: The Transition towards a renewable energy system – political, economic, social and environmental factors

This eBook is a unique scientific journey to the changing frontiers of energy transition in Cuba. The focus of this milestone publication is on social, economic, political and cultural aspects of energy transition in Cuba. Green energy transition with renewable energy sources requires the ability to identify opportunities across industries and services and apply the right technologies and tools to achieve more sustainable results. This eBook is covering a large diversity of Caribbean country´s experiences and realities trying to keep up with updated energy policy debates and dialogues. It combines accessible theory, relevant energy policy analysis and data, information and vital research of current Cuban economic, social and energy systems