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Production of photovoltaics (PV) jumped to 3,800 megawatts worldwide in 2007, up an estimated 50 percent over 2006. At the end of the year, according to preliminary data, cumulative global production stood at 12,400 megawatts, enough to power 2.4 million U.S. homes. Growing by an impressive average of 48 percent each year since 2002, PV production has been doubling every two years, making it the world’s fastest-growing energy source.

Photovoltaics, which directly convert sunlight into electricity, include both traditional, polysilicon-based solar cell technologies and new thin-film technologies. Thin-film manufacturing involves depositing extremely thin layers of photosensitive materials on glass, metal, or plastics. While the most common material currently used is amorphous silicon, the newest technologies use non-silicon-based materials such as cadmium telluride.

A key force driving the advancement of thin-film technologies is a polysilicon shortage that began in April 2004. In 2006, for the first time, more than half of polysilicon production went into PVs instead of computer chips. While thin films are not as efficient at converting sunlight to electricity, they currently cost less and their physical flexibility makes them more versatile than traditional solar cells.

The top five PV-producing countries are Japan, China, Germany, Taiwan, and the United States.... With more than 400 PV companies, China’s market share has exploded from 1 percent in 2003 to over 18 percent today. Having eclipsed Germany in 2007 to take the number two spot, China is now on track to become the number one PV producer in 2008. The United States, which gave the world the solar cell, has dropped from third to fifth place as a solar cell manufacturer since 2005, overtaken by China in 2006 and Taiwan in 2007.

...Despite China’s impressive production, PV prices are still too high for the average Chinese consumer. China only installed 25 megawatts of PV in 2006, exporting more than 90 percent of its PV production, mainly to Germany and Spain....China is planning a 100-megawatt solar PV farm in Dunhuang City in the northwestern province of Gansu, which would have five times the capacity of the largest PV power plant in the world today.

Despite its skies being cloudy two thirds of the time, Germany has been the leading market for PV installations since it overtook Japan in 2004.... Driven by a feed-in tariff that guarantees the price a utility must pay homeowners or private firms for PV-generated electricity, annual installations in Germany alone have exceeded those in all other countries combined since 2004. ... A feed-in tariff of 49¢ per kilowatt-hour will remain in place through 2009.

Japan, the United States, and Spain round out the top four markets with 350, 141, and 70 megawatts installed in 2006, respectively.

The growth in installations in the United States increased from 20 percent in 2005 to 31 percent in 2006, primarily driven by California and New Jersey. The California Solar Initiative was launched in January 2006 as part of the state’s Million Solar Roofs program to provide more than $3 billion in incentives for solar power. ... New Jersey’s Clean Energy Rebate Program, which began in 2001, offers a rebate of up to $3.50 per watt for residential PV systems, contributing to a more than tripling of installations between 2005 and 2006....

Of the world’s PV manufacturers in 2007, Sharp (Japan), Q-Cells (Germany), and Suntech (China) claimed the top three positions....

The average price for a PV module, excluding installation and other system costs, has dropped from almost $100 per watt in 1975 to less than $4 per watt at the end of 2006. With expanding polysilicon supplies, average PV prices are projected to drop to $2 per watt in 2010. For thin-film PV alone, production costs are expected to reach $1 per watt in 2010, at which point solar PV will become competitive with coal-fired electricity.

by Jonathan G. Dorn
FOR FULL STORY GO TO:
http://www.earthpolicy.org/Indicators/Solar/2007.htm
December 27, 2007
Earth Policy Institute www.earthpolicy.org

Abstract: As part of Pilot Project of KIP of CAS, a feasibility study of hydrogen production system using biomass residues is conducted. This study is based on a process of oxygen-rich air gasification of biomass in a downdraft gasifier plus CO-shift. The capacity of this system is 6.4 t biomass/d. Applying this system, it is expected that an annual production of 480 billion N m3 H2 will be generated for domestic supply in China. The capital cost of the plant used in this study is 1328$/(N m3/h) H2 out, and product supply cost is 0.15$/N m3 H2. The cost sensitivity analysis on this system tells that electricity and catalyst cost are the two most important factors to influence hydrogen production cost.

Keywords: Economic efficiency; Biomass; Hydrogen; China

by Pengmei Lv, Chuangzhi Wu, Longlong Ma and Zhenhong Yuan; all of Key Laboratory of Renewable Energy and Gas Hydrate,Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nengyuan Road, Wushan, Tianhe, Guangzhou 510640, China; Fax: +86 20 87057737.

Renewable Energy via Elsevier Science Direct www.ScienceDirect.com
Article in Press, Corrected Proof
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2007.11.002

Abstract: This work shows the application of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) in the full cost accounting (FCA) within the integrated resource planning (IRP) process. For this purpose, a pioneer case was developed and different energy solutions of supply and demand for a metropolitan airport (Congonhas) were considered [Moreira, E.M., 2005. Modelamento energético para o desenvolvimento limpo de aeroporto metropolitano baseado na filosofia do PIR?O caso da metrópole de S?o Paulo. Disserta??o de mestrado, GEPEA/USP]. These solutions were compared and analyzed utilizing the software solution “Decision Lens” that implements the AHP. The final part of this work has a classification of resources that can be considered to be the initial target as energy resources, thus facilitating the restraints of the IRP of the airport and setting parameters aiming at sustainable development.

Keywords: Integrated resource planning; Analytic hierarchy process; Full costs accounting

by Décio Cicone Jr. 1, Miguel Edgar Morales Udaeta 2, E-mail The Corresponding Author, José Aquiles Baesso Grimoni 2 and Luiz Cláudio Ribeiro Galv?o 2
1. GEPEA-USP, Grupo de Energia do Departamento de Engenharia de Energia e Automa??o Elétricas, Escola Politécnica da Universidade de S?o Paulo, Brazil
2. IEE/USP, Instituto de Eletrotécnica e Energia, Universidade de S?o Paulo, Brazil

Energy Policy via Elsevier Science Direct www.ScienceDirect.com
Article in Press, Corrected Proof
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2007.11.014

Abstract: A simple model predicting bathing water concentrations of Escherichia coli from livestock in the Irvine catchment in SW Scotland has been adapted for intestinal enterococci (IE). This has been used to predict risk of bather illness by extrapolation of published data on bather IE exposure vs incidence of gastro-enteritis. Simulated reduction in the risk of illness by reduced faecal loading was multiplied by a willingness to pay for risk reduction to estimate the annual benefits of mitigation. Health benefits of reducing loading by 75% at Irvine Beach were estimated by a willingness to pay method to be about £276k pa. Estimated annualised costs of diffuse pollution mitigation measures across the catchment were higher (>£1 m), and it is very unlikely that 75% mitigation is achievable with current stocking rates. Further work should explore the influence of uncertainty of model parameters, and use emerging epidemiological information on specific zoonotic pathogens such as E. coli O157 and Cryptosporidium. Other components of the value of clean water should also be included to obtain a complete estimate of the cost:benefit of mitigation.

Keywords: Intestinal enterococci; Risk assessment; Bathing water; Valuation;Livestock

by E.K. Johnson 1, D. Moran 2 and A.J.A. Vinten 3,
1. 592 Quail Court Kingston, Ontario K7M 8Z3, Canada
2. Land Economy and Environment Group, SAC, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH6 5AT, UK
3. Macaulay Land Use Research Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QH, UK

Journal of Environmental Management via Elsevier Science Direct www.ScienceDirect.com
Article in Press, Corrected Proof
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2007.06.021

Abstract: Evidence suggests, albeit tentatively, that feed-in tariffs (FITs) are more effective than alternative support schemes in promoting renewable energy technologies (RETs). FITs provide long-term financial stability for investors in RETs, which, at the prevailing market price of electricity, are not currently cost-efficient enough to compete with traditional fossil fuel technologies. On the other hand, if not properly designed, FITs can be economically inefficient, as is widely regarded to have been the case under the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (PURPA). Under PURPA, too high a guaranteed price led to the creation of so-called “PURPA machines”—poorly performing generating units that could survive financially only because of heavy subsidies that came at the expense of retail customers. Similarly, because of their adverse impacts on retail electricity rates, German FITs have been subject to increasing political pressure from utilities and customers. In this paper, we propose an innovative two-part FIT, consisting of both a capacity payment and a market-based energy payment, which can be used to meet the renewables policy goals of regulators. Our two-part tariff design draws on the strengths of traditional FITs, relies on market mechanisms, is easy to implement, and avoids the problems caused by distorting wholesale energy markets through above-market energy payments. The approach is modeled on forward capacity market designs that have been recently implemented by several regional transmission organizations in the USA to address needs for new generating capacity to ensure system reliability.

Keywords: Renewables; Feed-in tariffs; Auctions

by Jonathan A. Lesser and Xuejuan Su; Bates White LLC, Washington, DC 20005, USA; Telephone: +1 202 747 5972.

Energy Policy via Elsevier Science Direct www.ScienceDirect.com
Article in Press, Corrected Proof
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2007.11.007

This chapter discusses the historical context of water use, rights, and development, much of which has contributed to the current water shortage in many arid regions of the world. In addition, it attributes many perceived water crises to poor water management instead of an insufficient water supply. Poor water management is discussed in several contexts, including the ecological implications of past water development, social and public health ramifications, and a general underestimation of all costs associated with water development. Recommendations are provided to improve the management of water resources in the future. These recommendations include recognizing that uncertainty about costs and benefits of water management choices must be taken into account by decision-makers, and that incorporating community management of water resources can lead to improved water management. Other recommendations include improving water pricing and allocation systems, such as through a switch from queuing systems to tradable permits; as well as using water pricing mechanisms that incorporate the negative externalities of water quality deterioration. Finally, the chapter provides description of how to improve the cost-effectiveness of policies to improve water quality and quantity through better targeting.

Keywords: water shortages, water management, water pricing, cost-effective water policies

by Karina Schoengold 1 and David Zilberman 2
1. Email: kschoengold2@unl.edu
2. Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, University of California, Berkeley

Chapter 18 in Book - Mountains: Sources of Water, Sources of Knowledge; Pages 305-326 edited by by Ellen Wiegandt
Book Series: Advances in Global Change Research; Volume 31
Publisher: Springer Netherlands www.SpringerLink.com
DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4020-6748-8
Copyright 2008
ISBN: 978-1-4020-6747-1 (Print) 978-1-4020-6748-8 (Online)
http://www.springerlink.com/content/k0360nw227279807/

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to shed some light on understanding why companies adopt environmentally responsible behavior and what impact this adoption has on their performance. This is an empirical study that focuses on the United Nations (UN) Global Compact (GC) initiative as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) mechanism. A survey was conducted among GC participants, of which 29 responded. The survey relies on the anticipated and actual benefits noted by the participants in the GC.
The results, while not conclusive, indicate that companies have more than one reason for adopting environmentally responsible behavior and that ethical and economic reasons co-exist. In terms of performance, the impact of participation in the GC seems to be particularly high in securing network opportunities and improved corporate image. The results indicate that companies that have participated many years in the GC, have submitted the most projects and have attended the most GC meetings also regard their CSR involvement as having had a strong, positive influence on their market performance. GC participation does not result in significant cost advantages, but this does not seem to have been regarded as a goal anyway. Costs seem to be affected to a large extent by existence of in-house research and development and the capability of developing environmentally sound technologies. Overall, the company receives both ethical and economic benefits from joining the GC.

Keywords: corporate social responsibility, economics, environmentally responsible behavior, ethics, the United Nations Global Compact, Turkish case study

by Dilek Cetindamar; Faculty of Management, Sabanci University, Tuzla, Istanbul, 34956, Turkey andABB Corporate Research, Bergerveien 12, 1375 Billingstad, Norway; Email: dilek@sabanciuniv.edu

Journal of Business Ethics via Springer Netherlands www.SpringerLink.com
Volume 76, Number 2; December, 2007; Pages 163-176
DOI: 10.1007/s10551-006-9265-4
http://www.springerlink.com/content/65328647kmw2rpx8/

Abstract: The simplicity of many bioeconomic models has been criticised several times, due to their lack of realism resulting from a deterministic nature and a single-species focus. In this context it was interesting to test the financial sensitivity of bioeconomic modelling against fairly well documented ecological effects in mixed forests. For this purpose our study linked existing results of ecological research with bioeconomic modelling. The presented methodological approach could not only show the importance of considering ecological effects in bioeconomic models; it in fact enabled prioritising ecological research from a financial point of view.

In a first step, the possible influence of the tree species mixture on forest stand resistance, productivity and timber quality was derived from existing studies. In a second step, the available Monte Carlo simulations for Norway spruce (Picea abies [L.] Karst.) and European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), simulated under site conditions and risks typical of southern Germany, were extended by the mentioned ecological effects and then evaluated from a financial perspective.

The results showed a clear influence of all tested ecological effects on the financial indicators, financial risk and return. While testing each ecological effect separately, an increased resistance against wind, snow and insect attacks had the greatest influence on financial risk and return. It over-proportionally enhanced the financial return while simultaneously the financial risk was reduced. In contrast, a degraded timber quality could eliminate the positive effect of risk compensation in mixed forests almost completely. The least influence on the financial indicators finally showed a changed volume growth in mixed forests.

A combination of the separately tested ecological effects (increased resistance, changed volume growth and decreased timber quality), between both tree species, underlined the dominating importance of the stand resistance. The integration of ecological effects, induced by interdependent tree species, in our bioeconomic model resulted in significantly lower financial risk than ignoring these effects. Moreover, the financial return of mixed stand variants with a proportion of Norway spruce greater than 60% even exceeded that of the most profitable pure stand.

In conclusion this paper clearly confirmed that ignoring ecological effects in bioeconomic models could lead to seriously biased financial results. While a changed volume growth proved rather to be of minor importance for European beech/Norway spruce stands, tree resistance and timber quality may change the financial results significantly.

Keywords: Mixing tree species; Ecological interdependence; Risk compensation; Ecosystem resistance; Volume growth; Timber quality; Financial modelling; Profitability

by Thomas Knoke 1 and Thomas Seifert 2
1. Institute of Forest Management, Center of Life and Food Science Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Am Hochanger 13, 85354 Freising, Germany; Telephone: +49 8161 714700; fax: +49 8161 714616.
2. Chair of Forest Yield Science, Center of Life and Food Science Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Am Hochanger 13, 85354 Freising, Germany

Ecological Modelling via Elsevier Science Direct www.ScienceDirect.com
Volume 210, Issue 4, 10 February 2008, Pages 487-498
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2007.08.011

Abstract: A representative-consumer model with Epstein-Zin-Weil preferences and i.i.d. shocks, including rare disasters, accords with key asset-pricing observations. If the coefficient of relative risk aversion equals 3-4, the model accords with observed equity premia and risk-free real interest rates. If the intertemporal elasticity of substitution is greater than one, an increase in uncertainty lowers the price-dividend ratio for equity, whereas a rise in the expected growth rate raises this ratio. In a model with endogenous saving, more uncertainty lowers the saving ratio (because substitution effects dominate). The match with major features of asset pricing suggests that the model is a reasonable candidate for assessing the welfare cost of aggregate consumption uncertainty. In the baseline simulation, the welfare cost of disaster risk is large -- society would be willing to lower real GDP by as much as 20% each year to eliminate the small chance of major economic collapses. The welfare cost from usual economic fluctuations is much smaller, though still important, corresponding to lowering GDP by around 1.5% each year.

by Robert J. Barro
National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) www.NBER.org
Working Paper No. 13690; Issued in December 2007
http://papers.nber.org/papers/w13690

Abstract: This paper investigates how concern for the environment translates into predictable patterns of consumer behavior. Two types of behavior are considered. First, individuals who care about environmental quality may voluntarily restrain their consumption of goods and services that generate a negative externality. Second, individuals may choose to pay a price premium for goods and services that are more environmentally benign. A theoretical model identifies a symmetry between such voluntary restraint and a voluntary price premium that mirrors the symmetry between environmental policies based on either quantities (quotas) or prices (taxes). We test predictions of the model in an empirical study of household electricity consumption with introduction of a price-premium, green-electricity program. We find evidence of voluntary restraint and its relation to a voluntary price premium. The empirical results are consistent with the theoretical model of voluntary conservation.

by Matthew Kotchen and Michael Moore
National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) www.NBER.org
NBER Working Paper No. 13678; Issued in December 2007
http://papers.nber.org/papers/w13678

Abstract: One way of mitigating the negative effects of noise from road traffic is to include the external cost of noise in a road charging system. This study shows how standardized calculation methods for road traffic noise can be used together with monetary estimates of the social cost of noise exposure to calculate charges based on the social marginal cost. Using Swedish data on traffic volume and individuals exposed to road noise, together with official Swedish monetary values for noise exposure, we estimate road-noise charges for light (cars) and heavy (trucks) vehicles.

Keywords: Externalities; Marginal Cost; Noise; Road Traffic

by Henrik Andersson 1 and Mikael Ögren 2
1. Dept. of Transport Economics, Swedish National Road and Transport Research
Institute (VTI), P.O. Box 55685, SE-102 15 Stockholm, Sweden
2. Dept. of Environment and Traffic Analysis, VTI, P.O. Box 8077, SE-402 78
Gothenburg, Sweden; Telephone: +46 (0)13 20 40 79, Fax: +46 (0)13 22 72 75; Email address: mikael.ogren@vti.se (Mikael Ögren).
http://www.vti.se/EPiBrowser/hosting/Andersson_Ogren_Road_Noise.pdf

VTI Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute www.vti.se
http://www.vti.se/EPiBrowser/hosting/Andersson_Ogren_Road_Noise.pdf
13th December 2007

Abstract: This paper compares conditions and costs for RES-E grid connection in selected European countries. These are Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Austria, Lithuania and Slovenia. Country specific case studies are presented for wind onshore and offshore, biomass and photovoltaic power systems, as based on literature reviews and stakeholder interviews. It is shown that, especially for wind offshore, the allocation of grid connection costs can form a significant barrier for the installation of new RES-E generation if the developer has to bear all such costs. If energy policy makers want to reduce the barriers for new large-scale RES-E deployment, then it is concluded that the grid connection costs should be covered by the respective grid operator. These costs may then be recouped by increasing consumer tariffs for the use of the grid.

Keywords: Grid connection; Case studies; Embedded generation; Costs; Renewable electricity; Europe

by Derk J. Swider 1, Luuk Beurskens 2, Sarah Davidson 3, John Twidell 3 and 4, Jurek Pyrko 5, Wolfgang Prüggler 6, Hans Auer 6, Katarina Vertin 7 and Romualdas Skema 8
1. University of Stuttgart, Germany
2. Energy Research Centre of the Netherlands, The Netherlands
3. IT Power, UK
4. AMSET Centre, UK
5. Lund University, Sweden
6. Vienna University of Technology, Austria
7. Energy Restructuring Agency, Slovenia
8. Lithuanian Energy Institute, Lithuania

Renewable Energy via Elsevier Science Direct www.ScienceDirect.com
Article in Press, Corrected Proof
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2007.11.005

Abstract: This paper estimates the number of people at risk of contracting malaria in Africa using GIS methods and the disease's epidemiologic characteristics. It then estimates yearly costs of covering the population at risk with the package of interventions (differing by level of malaria endemicity and differing for rural and urban populations) for malaria as recommended by the UN Millennium Project. These projected costs are calculated assuming a ramp-up of coverage to full coverage by 2008, and then projected out through 2015 to give a year-by-year cost of meeting the Millennium Development Goal for reducing the burden of malaria by 75% We conclude that the cost of comprehensive malaria control for Africa is US$3.0 billion per year on average, or around US$4.02 per African at risk.

by Awash Teklehaimanot, Gordon C. McCord, Jeffrey D. Sachs
National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) www.NBER.org
NBER Working Paper No. 13664; Issued in December 2007
http://papers.nber.org/papers/w13664

Abstract: Institutions affect bureaucrats' possibilities to acquire rents; they determine the degree of accountability and responsiveness of officials and of political control of the bureaucracy and, thereby, the size and distribution of rents in the public sphere. Those rents can involve higher wages, monetary and nonmonetary fringe benefits, and bribes. We propose a direct measure to capture the total of these rents: the difference in subjective well-being between bureaucrats and people working in the private sector. In a sample of 42 countries, we find large variations in the extent of rents in the public bureaucracy. The extent of rents is determined by differences in institutional and political constraints. In particular, we find judicial independence to be of major relevance for a tamed bureaucracy. Further, our measure for rents correlates with indicators of regulatory policies and perceptions of corruption.

by Simon Luechinger 1, Stephan Meier 2 and Alois Stutzer
1. Institute for Empirical Research in Economics, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. Email: sluechinger@iew.unizh.ch.
2. Center for Behavioral Economics and Decision Making, Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, Boston, MA. Email: stephan.meier@bos.frb.org.
3. Department of Business and Economics University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland. Email: alois.stutzer@unibas.ch.

Journal of Law, Economics, and Organization via Oxford University Press http://jleo.oxfordjournals.org
Advance Access published online on December 2, 2007
doi: 10.1093/jleo/ewm057
http://jleo.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/ewm057v1?papetoc

Abstract: This paper employs industry-level US Census data from 1980-2000 to assess the aggregate effects of racial diversity. While most international accounts find that diversity reduces productivity, Chad Sparber argues that the US experience is more nuanced. Unqualified statements about the costs and merits of diversity are unwarranted, as racial heterogeneity increases productivity within many, but not all, industries. Sectors employing a large number of workers responsible for creative decision-making and customer service experience gains from diversity, while industries characterized by high levels of group effort suffer losses. The results thus reconcile two competing literatures by suggesting that diversity improves decision-making and problem solving, but also encumbers common action and public goods provision.

Keywords: Racial Diversity, Productivity
by Chad Sparber; Colgate University; 13 Oak Drive; Hamilton, NY 13346; csparber@mail.colgate.edu
Colgate Universtiy http://people.colgate.edu
November, 2007
http://people.colgate.edu/csparber/Industry.pdf

Abstract: Abstract: Water resources are under increasing pressure to meet potable supply needs while sustaining aquatic ecosystems and fisheries. Growing populations and enforcement of the Total Maximum Daily Load provisions of the Clean Water Act present public water and wastewater utilities with costly options to meet potable water demands and reduce pollutant discharges into receiving waters. This paper documents that New York City’s comprehensive water conservation program ? designed to extend the city’s safe yield of potable water?has also resulted in reduced nitrogen discharges from the city’s water pollution control plants during a period of population increases. This paper demonstrates and quantifies the effects that wastewater inflow volume reductions have on increased nitrogen removal, controlling for plant process changes. Conservation programs have saved the city billions of dollars in delayed or avoided capital improvements to both water and wastewater treatment plants, and have enabled the city to meet interim effluent discharge standards.

by Kurt Paulsen 1, Jeffrey Featherstone 2 and Sean Greene 3
1. Assistant Professor, Department of Urban and Regional Planning, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 925 Bascom Mall, Madison, Wisconsin 53706; E-Mail: kpaulsen@wisc.edu
2. Professor and Chair, Department of Community and Regional Planning, Temple University, 580 Meetinghouse Road, Ambler, Pennsylvania 19002, and
3. Research Analyst and Environmental Specialist, Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, 190 N. Independence Mall West, 8th Floor, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Journal of the American Water Resources Association via Blackwell Publishing www.Blackwell-Synergy.com
Volume 43 Issue 6; December, 2007; Pages 1570-1582
doi:10.1111/jhttp://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1752-1688.2007.00128.x.1752-1688.2007.00128.x

Abstract: Using data drawn from a web-based travel cost survey, Ash Morgan, Matt Massey and William Huth jointly model revealed and stated preference trip count data in an attempt to estimate the recreational use value from diving the intentionally sunk ex-USS Oriskany. Respondents were asked to report (1) their actual trips from the previous year, (2) their anticipated trip in the next year, and (3) their anticipated trip next year assuming a second dive-able destroyer were sunk in the same vicinity. Results from a single-site Poisson and negative binomial travel cost model indicate an annual use value of $1,215 per diver associated with current Oriskany-specific dive trips. Expected annual use value estimates then increase to $2,596 with the “bundling” of a second vessel alongside the Oriskany to create a multiple-ship artificial reef area.

Keywords: Artificial reefs; Diving; Bundled public good; Recreation demand; Non-market valuation

by Ash Morgan, Matt Massey and William Huth

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) www.EPA.gov National Center for Environmental Economics (NCEE) http://yosemite.epa.gov/ee/epa/eed.nsf/Webpages/homepage
Working Paper Number: 2007-09; Document Date: 12/13/2007
http://yosemite.epa.gov/EE/epa/eed.nsf/WPNumber/2007-09?OpenDocument

Abstract:
This paper develops a general framework to evaluate the effects on agricultural and gasoline markets of a consumption mandate and excise-tax exemption, the two most prominent public biofuel policies. Although market prices for biofuels increase under each policy, consumer fuel prices always decline with a tax exemption and increase with a mandate except under special circumstances when oil supply is inelastic relative to the supply of biofuels. A tax exemption alone is a biofuel consumption subsidy but most of the benefits go to biofuel producers because biofuels are a small share of total fuel consumption. Fuel consumers benefit indirectly to the extent gasoline prices decline with increased biofuel production.

With a binding mandate in place, the tax exemption acts as a subsidy to fuel consumers instead. Biofuel producers only gain indirectly with the increased biofuel demand resulting from the increase in total fuel consumption. Most of the market effects are due to the mandate with the tax exemption only exacerbating the biofuel price increase and causing an increase in the oil price but a decrease in the consumer fuel price. An important implication is that the effects of each policy are not additive when used in combination.

To illustrate the complexity and importance of the interaction between biofuel mandates and tax exemptions, we calibrate a stylized empirical model of the U.S. ethanol market. The results confirm the theoretical findings, including the special case of a mandate reducing consumer prices. The model is well suited to form a basis for evaluating the social benefits of the mandate versus the tax exemption in reducing local pollution, global warming and reliance on oil, and in enhancing farm incomes, reducing tax costs of farm subsidies and promoting rural development.

Keywords: biofuels, mandate, tax exemption, ethanol

by Harry de Gorter and David R. Just; Associate and Assistant Professor, respectively; Cornell University, Department of Applied Economics and Management; Ithaca, New York 14853-7801 USA

Munich Personal RePEc Archive (MPRA) http://mpra.ub.uni-muenchen.de
October 24, 2007; MPRA Paper No. 5503, WP 2007-20
http://mpra.ub.uni-muenchen.de/5503/1/MPRA_paper_5503.pdf

Abstract:
Background, Aim and Scope Electrocoagulation (EC) may be a potential answer to environmental problems dealing with water reuse and rational waste management. The aim of this research was to assess the feasibility of EC-process for industrial contaminated effluents from copper production, taking into consideration technical and economical factors. EC-technology claims to offer efficient removal rates for most types of wastewater impurities at low power consumption and without adding any precipitating agents.
Materials and Methods Real wastewater from Saraka stream with high concentrations of heavy metals was provided by RTB-BOR, a Serbian copper mining and smelting complex. Runs were performed on a 10 1 EC-reactor using aluminum plates as sacrificial electrodes and powered by a 40 A supply unit. Results concerning key factors like pH, conductivity and power consumption were measured in real time. Analysis of dissolved metal concentrations before and after treatment were carried out via ICP-OES and confirmed by an independent test via AAS.
Results Several aspects were taken into account, including current density, conductivity, interfacial resistivity and reactor settings throughout the runs, in order to analyze all possible factors playing a role in neutralization and metal removal in real industrial wastewater.
Discussion Electrode configurations and their effects on energy demand were discussed and exemplified based on fundamentals of colloidal and physical chemistry.
Conclusions Based on experimental data and since no precipitating agents were applied, the EC-process proved to be not only feasible and environmentally-friendly, but also a cost-effective technology.
Recommendations and Perspectives The EC-technology provides strategic guidelines for further research and development of sustainable water management processes. However, additional test series concerning continuous operation must be still performed in order to get this concept ready for future large-scale applications.

Keywords: Aqueous chemistry, electrocoagulation, energy demand, metals removal, sustainability, wastewater treatment

by Jackson Rodriguez 1, Srećko Stopić 1, Gregor Krause 2 and Bernd Friedrich 1
1. Process Metallurgy and Metal Recycling IME, RWTH Aachen University, Intzestr. 3, 52056 Aachen, Germany; Email: JRodriguez@ime-aachen.de
2. Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, FH Aachen University, Eupenerstr. 70, 52066 Aachen, Germany

Environmental Science and Pollution Research via Ecomed Verlagsgesellschaft mbH (Springer Publishing) www.SpringerLink.com
Volume 14, Number 7; November, 2007; Pages 477-482
DOI: 10.1065/espr2007.05.424
http://www.springerlink.com/content/28801600066879m8/

Abstract: David Cesariniy, Christopher T. Dawes, Magnus Johannesson, Paul Lichtenstein and Björn Wallace use the classical twin design to provide estimates of genetic and environmental in‡fluences on experimentally elicited preferences for risk and altruism. Their estimates provide strong prima facie evidence that economic preferences are heritable. Approximately 30 percent of the variation in behavior is explained by genetic effects in the best fi…tting models. The results suggest a modest role for common environment as a source of phenotypic variation. Based on the …findings, they encourage economists to move beyond a black-box treatment of preference formation and suggest that the further study of the codetermination of preferences by genes and environment will lead to a more comprehensive economic science.

by David Cesariniy, Christopher T. Dawes, Magnus Johannesson, Paul Lichtenstein and Björn Wallace
SSE/EFI Working Paper Series in Economics and Finance Number 679
via Scandanavia Working Papers in Economics http://swopec.hhs.se
November 27, 2007
http://swopec.hhs.se/hastef/papers/hastef0679.pdf

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today announced the short-term action plan to begin reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from the City's municipal buildings and operations by 30% by 2017 as promised in PlaNYC. The plan for the current fiscal year was developed over the last six weeks by the steering committee created by an executive order signed by Mayor Bloomberg in October. The steering committee is also charged with developing and implementing a comprehensive 10-year energy conservation plan, which will be submitted to the Mayor by June 30, 2008. Deputy Mayor for Administration Edward Skyler chairs the steering committee and presented the short-term action plan to the Mayor today.

"We've made a serious commitment to reducing the level of carbon emissions citywide, and as I've said repeatedly, City government must lead by example," Mayor Bloomberg said. "The short-term action plan that was submitted to me today by the steering committee will serve as a blueprint for moving forward this year, and will serve as the foundation for our 10-year plan to reduce emissions by 30%. And in addition to reducing emissions in City government operations and City-owned buildings, our actions will serve as a model for the private sector."

"Because meeting this challenge is a citywide commitment, it will require the collective efforts and cooperation of every City agency," Deputy Mayor Skyler said. "Today's short-term action plan outlines important first steps in implementing tangible changes that will yield real results, and by June, we will deliver a comprehensive plan for reducing emissions from both our City government operations and our City-owned buildings, making New York a true leader in greenhouse gas emission reduction."

The short-term action plan includes 132 projects throughout all five boroughs and is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 34,000 tons annually. The projects in this plan include lighting replacement and sensor installation; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning improvements; water and sewer equipment upgrades; and vehicle replacements. The initial reduction is an important first step, and the steering committee, which includes representatives from the Office of Operations/Long-Term Planning and Sustainability, Office of Management and Budget, Economic Development Corporation, Department of Design and Construction, and Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), expects to more significantly reduce carbon emissions while implementing the 10-year plan. The City, which accounts for approximately 6.5% of New York City's total energy usage and 10% of its peak electricity demand, will finance the 10-year plan with an annual commitment of 10% ($80 million in Fiscal Year 2008) of the City's annual energy expenditures ($800 million in Fiscal Year 2008).

In creating the short-term action plan, the steering committee sought projects with a rapid return on investment and overall energy savings, and considered proposals developed by the DCAS Office of Energy Conservation and by several of the City's largest energy-using agencies. The steering committee also identified a series of pilot programs, studies, and advisory services to help implement these projects and to develop the 10-year plan.

City of New York www.NYC.gov
Press Release PR-443-07; December 5, 2007
http://www.nyc.gov/portal/site/nycgov/menuitem.c0935b9a57bb4ef3daf2f1c701c789a0/index.jsp?pageID=mayor_press_release&catID=1194&doc_name=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nyc.gov%2Fhtml%2Fom%2Fhtml%2F2007b%2Fpr443-07.html&cc=unused1978&rc=1194&ndi=1

Abstract: HIV prevalence dynamics are introduced into a three sector, neoclassical growth model. The model is calibrated to South African national accounts data and used to examine the potential impact of HIV/AIDS on economic growth. Projections portend that, if left unchecked, the long run impact of HIV/AIDS could cause South African GDP to be about 60% less than would be the level of GDP in the absence of the disease. In spite of a relatively high death rate, the disease is also found to decrease the per capita level of GDP, due mostly to a decline in labor productivity and a corresponding slower growth in capital deepening.

Keywords: Dynamic; Growth; HIV; Sub-SaharanAfrica; GDP; General-equilibrium

JEL classification codes: I19; O11; O41; O55

by Terry L. Roe and Rodney B.W. Smith, both of the Department of Applied Economics, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States; Telephone: +1 612 625 6706.

Journal of Policy Modeling via Elsevier Science Direct www.ScienceDirect.com
Volume 30, Issue 1; January-February, 2008; Pages 145-168
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jpolmod.2007.09.004

Abstract: Acidity, presence of metals and high-sulphate concentration are typical characteristics found in acid mine waters (AMWs). A 200-dm3 pilot, allowing bacterial conversion of sulphate into sulphide, was designed to treat AMWs. A fixed-bed column was filled with pozzolana, inoculated with a bacterial population containing the sulphate-reducing organism Desulfomicrobium norvegicum and fed with a H2 and CO2 gas mixture. The pilot worked in continuous-feeding conditions during 36 days. An actual AMW was sequentially treated by neutralisation of acidity, precipitation of metals using sulphide produced by the bioreactor and bioconversion of sulphate in the bioreactor fed with the sulphide-treated effluent. The residence time in the bioreactor was decreased down to 8.5 h. The sulphate reduction rate, correlated with the temperature between 5 and 17°C, varied between 35 and 95 mg dm−3 h−1. On the basis of the technical assessment previously made and after setting up some extrapolation hypotheses and calculations for a 10 m3 h−1 unit, the treatment cost per cubic meter of AMW was evaluated.

Keywords: Acid mine water, Bioreactor, Desulfomicrobium norvegicum, Economic assessment, Fixed-bed column bioreactor, Metal sulphide precipitation, Process scale up, Sulphate-reducing bacteria

by S. Touze, F. Battaglia-Brunet and I. Ignatiadis all of BRGM, Environment & Process Division, 3, av. Claude Guillemin, BP 36009, 45060 Orleans, Cedex 02, France; Email: i.ignatiadis@brgm.fr

Water, Air, & Soil Pollution via Springer Publishing www.SpringerLink.com
Volume 187, Numbers 1-4; January, 2008; Pages 15-29
DOI: 10.1007/s11270-007-9490-1
http://www.springerlink.com/content/n4355224v744q460/

Abstract: Increasing the number of breast cancer patients in follow-up involves increased costs and, with limited health care resources, there is a need to evaluate the cost-benefit to the patient of follow-up regimens. We present a randomized prospective study to evaluate the cost-benefit of intensive follow-up in the early detection of relapses in patients with breast cancer. One hundred and twenty-one patients were randomized to standard clinical follow-up (n = 63) or to an intensive follow-up (n = 58) that included diagnostic laboratory tests and imagin