The environmental costing model: A tool for more efficient environmental policymaking in Flanders

The environmental costing model (Milieu-Kosten-Model or MKM in Dutch) is a tool for assessing cost-efficiency of environmental policy. The present paper describes the modelling methodology and illustrates it by presenting numerical simulations for selected multi-sector and multi-pollutant emission control problems for Flanders. First, the paper situates the concept of cost-efficiency in the context of Flemish environmental policy and motivates the chosen approach. Secondly, the structure of the numerical simulation model is laid out. The basic model input is an extensive database of potential emission reduction measures for several pollutants and several sectors. Each measure is characterized by its specific emission reduction potential and average abatement cost. The MKM determines, by means of linear programming techniques, least-cost combinations of abatement measures as to satisfy, possibly multi-pollutant, emission standards. Emission reduction targets can be imposed for Flanders as a whole, per sector or even per installation. The measures can be constrained to satisfy “equal treatment” of sectors and several other political feasibility constraints. Thirdly, the features of the model are illustrated by means of a multi-sector (non-ferrous, chemical and ceramics industry) and multi-pollutant (SO2, NOx) example. Results show clearly that important cost savings are possible by allowing for more flexibility (emission standards for Flanders as a whole instead of per sector). Cost savings from taking into account explicitly the multi-pollutant nature of environmental regulation are modest for the current test version of the database.status: publishe

Accelerating transition dynamics in city regions: A qualitative modeling perspective

textabstractIn this article, we take stock of the findings from conceptual and empirical work on the role of transition initiatives for accelerating transitions as input for modeling acceleration dynamics. We applied the qualitative modeling approach of causal loop diagrams to capture the dynamics of a single transition initiative evolving within its regional context. In doing so, we aim to address two key challenges in transition modeling, namely conceptualization, and the framing of empirical insights obtained for various case study regions in a consistent modeling framework. Our results show that through this systematic approach one can translate conceptual and qualitative empirical work into a transition model design. Moreover, the causal loop diagrams can be used as discussion tools to support dialogue among researchers and stakeholders, and may support a comparison of transition dynamics across case-study regions. We reflect on main limitations related to empirical model validation (lack of data) and to model structure (high level of aggregation), and describe next steps for moving from a qualitative single transition initiative to a quantitative multiple transition initiatives model

Cost-benefit analysis of abatement measures for nutrient emission from agriculture

In intensive animal husbandry areas surface water N and P concentrations often remain too high. The Water Framework Directive calls for additional nutrient emission abatement measures. Therefore, costs and benefits for possible agricultural measures in Flanders were first analysed in terms of soil balance surplus. Finally, abatement measures for agriculture, households and industry were set off against each other and ranked according to their cost-efficiency by the Environmental Costing Model. Increased dairy cattle efficiency, winter cover crops and increased pig feed efficiency turn out very cost efficient. Other agricultural measures are less cost efficient than for instance collective treatment for households and industry