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  1. Article: Energy access and pandemic-resilient livelihoods: The role of solar energy safety nets.

    Zaman, Rafia / van Vliet, Oscar / Posch, Alfred

    Energy research & social science

    2020  Volume 71, Page(s) 101805

    Abstract: Lack of energy access undermines the socio-economic conditions of households, reducing their resilience, particularly in the face of disruptive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hundreds of millions of poor rural households, who live in remote and ... ...

    Abstract Lack of energy access undermines the socio-economic conditions of households, reducing their resilience, particularly in the face of disruptive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hundreds of millions of poor rural households, who live in remote and difficult-to-reach areas, are still without access to energy. Solar energy safety nets, in the form of targeted social assistance programs and off-grid technological solutions, do not only advance energy access but also develop capacities of households to prepare for, respond to, and recover from specific threats like pandemics. We discuss ongoing solar energy safety net programs in the largest off-grid solar markets of Bangladesh, India, Kenya, and Nigeria, and how such programs are affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. We find that solar energy safety net programs should be maintained and updated to emphasize their potential for building pandemic-resilient livelihoods. These programs can be supported with efforts to build local value chains and economies based on clean electricity. Well-designed solar energy safety net policies generate multiple co-benefits, including the resilience of households to pandemics.
    Keywords covid19
    Language English
    Publishing date 2020-10-22
    Publishing country Netherlands
    Document type Journal Article ; Review
    ZDB-ID 2763226-X
    ISSN 2214-6296
    ISSN 2214-6296
    DOI 10.1016/j.erss.2020.101805
    Database MEDical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System OnLINE

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  2. Article: On the discovery and enactment of positive socio-ecological tipping points: insights from energy systems interventions in Bangladesh and Indonesia

    Tàbara, J. David / Lieu, Jenny / Zaman, Rafia / Ismail, Cynthia / Takama, Takeshi

    Sustainability science. 2022 Mar., v. 17, no. 2

    2022  

    Abstract: Notions, such as leverage points, sensitive interventions, social tipping points, transformational tipping points, and positive tipping points, are increasingly attracting attention within sustainability science. However, they are also creating confusion ...

    Abstract Notions, such as leverage points, sensitive interventions, social tipping points, transformational tipping points, and positive tipping points, are increasingly attracting attention within sustainability science. However, they are also creating confusion and unresolved questions about how to apply these concepts when dealing with urgent global challenges such as rapid decarbonisation. We propose a relational methodology aimed at helping how to identify and support the emergence of positive ‘Social-Ecological Tipping Points’ (SETPs) that could bring about sustainability transformations. Our approach emphasises the need to pay attention to processes of social construction and to time dynamics. In particular, in a given social-ecological system, three key moments need to be considered: (1) The building of transformative conditions and capacities for systemic change, (2) A tipping event or intervention shifting the system towards a different trajectory or systems’ configuration, and (3) the structural effects derived from such transformation. Furthermore, we argue that the discovery and enactment of positive SETPs require considering multiple ontological, epistemological, and normative questions that affect how researchers and change agents define, approach, and assess their systems of reference. Our insights are derived from examining the implementation of household renewable energy systems at regional level in two rural areas of Indonesia and Bangladesh.
    Keywords energy ; renewable energy sources ; sustainability science and engineering ; Bangladesh ; Indonesia
    Language English
    Dates of publication 2022-03
    Size p. 565-571.
    Publishing place Springer Japan
    Document type Article
    ZDB-ID 2260333-5
    ISSN 1862-4057 ; 1862-4065
    ISSN (online) 1862-4057
    ISSN 1862-4065
    DOI 10.1007/s11625-021-01050-6
    Database NAL-Catalogue (AGRICOLA)

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  3. Article: Energy governance in the context of energy service security: A qualitative assessment of the electricity system in Bangladesh

    Zaman, Rafia / Thomas Brudermann

    Applied energy. 2018 Aug. 01, v. 223

    2018  

    Abstract: Soaring energy demand in developing Asian countries presents a challenge for existing centralized systems and monopolistic electric utilities since these often fail to reliably provide energy service security. Inclusive energy governance could serve as a ...

    Abstract Soaring energy demand in developing Asian countries presents a challenge for existing centralized systems and monopolistic electric utilities since these often fail to reliably provide energy service security. Inclusive energy governance could serve as a hedging mechanism against several inherent problems such as supply disruptions and corruption practices, and thus improve energy service security. This study therefore (i) proposes a conceptual framework for energy governance in developing countries and (ii) applies this framework to qualitatively assess the energy service security perspectives of the electricity system in Bangladesh via an interpretive research approach. Relevant governance indicators were first identified in an inductive thematic analysis of systematically selected literature. Bangladesh’s electricity system was then subsequently qualitatively analyzed on the basis of secondary data and official reports. The findings indicate the presence of weak institutions in the electricity sector and a lack of market competition, and the need for consistent policy implementation, proper pricing and information disclosure mechanisms. In addition, other challenges such as endemic corruption and bureaucratic complexities, underdeveloped grids and insufficient resource logistics also need to be addressed. While international interventions and national policies favor a heavy take-up of fossil fuels in order to achieve energy security and energy equity, environmental sustainability is largely ignored. The study concludes that the integration of energy governance and energy security perspectives is crucial to understanding and addressing the challenges of a just energy transition in the face of the standard energy trilemma in developing countries.
    Keywords developing countries ; electric utilities ; electricity ; energy ; environmental sustainability ; fossil fuels ; governance ; issues and policy ; market competition ; monopoly ; prices ; Bangladesh
    Language English
    Dates of publication 2018-0801
    Size p. 443-456.
    Publishing place Elsevier Ltd
    Document type Article
    ZDB-ID 2000772-3
    ISSN 0306-2619
    ISSN 0306-2619
    DOI 10.1016/j.apenergy.2018.04.081
    Database NAL-Catalogue (AGRICOLA)

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  4. Article: A multi-criteria analysis of coal-based power generation in Bangladesh

    Zaman, Rafia / Thomas Brudermann / S. Kumar / Nazrul Islam

    Energy policy. 2018 May, v. 116

    2018  

    Abstract: Socio-technical transformations towards low-carbon energy systems are on the way in developed countries. Conversely, developing countries tend to be locked in fossil fuels and foster coal-based energy structures, emphasizing reliable and cost-effective ... ...

    Abstract Socio-technical transformations towards low-carbon energy systems are on the way in developed countries. Conversely, developing countries tend to be locked in fossil fuels and foster coal-based energy structures, emphasizing reliable and cost-effective energy provision and sidelining environmental concerns. In this study, we identified and analysed the predominant factors related to coal-based power generation in Bangladesh. We applied a mixed-method approach, initially conducting a systematic literature review and, subsequently, semi-structured expert interviews to identify and validate relevant factors. We then assessed their relative importance using an Analytical Hierarchy Process based on expert judgments. The results of this assessment reveal that socio-economic aspects and environmental issues scored highest, while technological aspects and sector regulations were considered to be less relevant for large-scale coal power implementation. We conclude that future energy policies created in Bangladesh will need to use appropriate legal instruments and address issues such as human displacement and resettlement, low levels of public acceptance, health hazards and environmental pollution. Participative policy frameworks should be deployed in coal plant projects, and active monitoring systems are necessary to reduce the negative consequences associated with increased electrification and energy consumption. To address foreseeable structural challenges, it furthermore will be crucial to explore sustainable alternatives.
    Keywords coal ; cost effectiveness ; developed countries ; developing countries ; energy ; energy policy ; humans ; interviews ; monitoring ; pollution ; power generation ; socioeconomics ; Bangladesh
    Language English
    Dates of publication 2018-05
    Size p. 182-192.
    Publishing place Elsevier Ltd
    Document type Article
    ISSN 0301-4215
    DOI 10.1016/j.enpol.2018.01.053
    Database NAL-Catalogue (AGRICOLA)

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  5. Article: Prospects of green roofs in urban Thailand – A multi-criteria decision analysis

    Sangkakool, Tachaya / Kuaanan Techato / Rafia Zaman / Thomas Brudermann

    Journal of cleaner production. 2018 Sept. 20, v. 196

    2018  

    Abstract: Green roof systems are considered a best practice for climate change adaptation and mitigation in urban areas affected by heat waves and stormwater flooding. Green roofs mitigate urban heat islands, improve urban air quality, buffer stormwater and ... ...

    Abstract Green roof systems are considered a best practice for climate change adaptation and mitigation in urban areas affected by heat waves and stormwater flooding. Green roofs mitigate urban heat islands, improve urban air quality, buffer stormwater and improve runoff quality, absorb emissions and increase the thermal efficiency of buildings. Green roofs therefore are an interesting technology for densely populated urban areas in Thailand, but still at a rather low diffusion stage. The aim of this paper thus is to identify and quantify the main factors that influence green roof adoption using a mixed-method research design. The relevant factors were (1) identified in a qualitative content analysis, (2) structured alongside two dimensions (internal/external and positive/negative factors), and (3) quantitatively assessed in an Analytical Hierarchy Process based on expert judgments. The analysis yields three main factors influencing the diffusion potential of green roofs in Thailand: While their potential to mitigate urban heat islands is the most important facilitating factor, the lack of proper subsidy schemes as well as the lack of knowledge and skilled workforce, represent major adoption barriers. In spite of the discussed challenges and issues, a light trend towards greener buildings can already be observed among planners, architects, and also on policy levels in Thailand. If the identified issues are addressed properly, green roofs eventually could become a significant contributor to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts in Thailand.
    Keywords air quality ; buildings ; climate change ; emissions ; green roofs ; heat ; heat island ; issues and policy ; labor force ; multi-criteria decision making ; stormwater ; Thailand
    Language English
    Dates of publication 2018-0920
    Size p. 400-410.
    Publishing place Elsevier Ltd
    Document type Article
    ISSN 0959-6526
    DOI 10.1016/j.jclepro.2018.06.060
    Database NAL-Catalogue (AGRICOLA)

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  6. Article: A randomized clinical trial comparing 50mCi and 100mCi of iodine-131 for ablation of differentiated thyroid cancers.

    Zaman, Maseeh uz / Toor, Rafia / Kamal, Shahid / Maqbool, Minhaj / Habib, Salman / Niaz, Khalid

    JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association

    2006  Volume 56, Issue 8, Page(s) 353–356

    Abstract: Objective: To compare the efficacy of low (50 mCi) and high dose (100 mCi) Iodine-131 in ablation of differentiated thyroid cancer remnants.: Methods: Baseline serum thyroglobulin (sTg), thyroglobulin antibody (Tg Ab) and diagnostic whole body iodine ...

    Abstract Objective: To compare the efficacy of low (50 mCi) and high dose (100 mCi) Iodine-131 in ablation of differentiated thyroid cancer remnants.
    Methods: Baseline serum thyroglobulin (sTg), thyroglobulin antibody (Tg Ab) and diagnostic whole body iodine scan with 2 mCi of I-131 were performed in each individual. After 6 months serum Tg, Tg Ab (of-thyroxin) and WB iodine scan with 10 mCi of I-131 were done to assess the efficacy of the low and high dose of I-131. Iodine ablative therapy (IAT) was considered successful (complete ablation) if the I-131 whole body scan was negative and sTg level was undetectable. In case of positive scan and/or sTg level detectable the patient was considered as unsuccessfully/partially ablated.
    Results: In group A, (high dose) successful IAT was seen in 12/20 (60%) patients. Of these 5/7 (71%) had follicular Carcinoma on histopathology and 7/13 (54%) had papillary Ca. In group B, (low dose) successful IAT was seen in 8/20 (40%) patients, out of which 3/10 (30%) had follicular Carcinoma on histopathology and had successful IAT. 5/10 (50%) patients with papillary Carcinoma had successful IAT. As far as histopathology is concerned, in group A, response to high dose I-131 was better in follicular type than papillary type. Whereas in group B, response to low dose I-131 was better in patients with papillary type than follicular.
    Conclusion: 100 mCi of radioactive Iodine-131 (I-131) is a more effective therapeutic dose than 50 mCi (I-131) in the treatment of differentiated thyroid cancer remnants. Furthermore, follicular Carcinoma respond better to 100 mCi I-131 than 50 mCi while papillary Carcinoma showed an almost equal response to both.
    MeSH term(s) Adenocarcinoma, Follicular/blood ; Adenocarcinoma, Follicular/radiotherapy ; Adult ; Carcinoma, Papillary/blood ; Carcinoma, Papillary/radiotherapy ; Combined Modality Therapy ; Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation ; Female ; Humans ; Iodine Radioisotopes/therapeutic use ; Male ; Neoplasm, Residual ; Thyroglobulin/blood ; Thyroid Neoplasms/blood ; Thyroid Neoplasms/radiotherapy ; Thyroidectomy
    Chemical Substances Iodine Radioisotopes ; Thyroglobulin (9010-34-8)
    Language English
    Publishing date 2006-08
    Publishing country Pakistan
    Document type Journal Article ; Randomized Controlled Trial
    ZDB-ID 603873-6
    ISSN 0030-9982
    ISSN 0030-9982
    Database MEDical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System OnLINE

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  7. Article: Energy access and pandemic-resilient livelihoods: The role of solar energy safety nets

    Zaman, Rafia van Vliet Oscar Posch Alfred

    Energy Research & Social Science

    Abstract: Lack of energy access undermines the socio-economic conditions of households, reducing their resilience, particularly in the face of disruptive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic Hundreds of millions of poor rural households, who live in remote and ... ...

    Abstract Lack of energy access undermines the socio-economic conditions of households, reducing their resilience, particularly in the face of disruptive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic Hundreds of millions of poor rural households, who live in remote and difficult-to-reach areas, are still without access to energy Solar energy safety nets, in the form of targeted social assistance programs and off-grid technological solutions, do not only advance energy access but also develop capacities of households to prepare for, respond to, and recover from specific threats like pandemics We discuss ongoing solar energy safety net programs in the largest off-grid solar markets of Bangladesh, India, Kenya, and Nigeria, and how such programs are affected by the COVID-19 pandemic We find that solar energy safety net programs should be maintained and updated to emphasize their potential for building pandemic-resilient livelihoods These programs can be supported with efforts to build local value chains and economies based on clean electricity Well-designed solar energy safety net policies generate multiple co-benefits, including the resilience of households to pandemics
    Keywords covid19
    Publisher WHO
    Document type Article
    Note WHO #Covidence: #885273
    Database COVID19

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