Issue 587

Increasing uptake of electric vehicles across Europe will impact energy demand as electricity supply transitions towards renewable sources. This study considers how flexible vehicle charging could affect the adoption of renewables, backup capacity requirements and CO2-emission reduction costs. The study analyses three different charging strategies representing the different EV flexibility levels, which, from low to high flexibility, are: dumb charging, smart charging and smart charging in combination with bidirectional charging (vehicle-to-grid or V2G). Click here to read more

Levels of chemical pollution vary over time as new substances are brought into use and, in some cases, restricted or prohibited. This study used samples from a dated sediment core taken from the North Sea to track levels of 90 chemicals over the last century. The researchers report that, following legislative restrictions, pollution levels fell for many substances, but residual levels remain much higher than before contamination in several cases. Click here to read more

Beech is one of the most ecologically and economically valuable tree species in Europe. A new study finds that climate change could significantly reduce beech trees’ growth across most of the continent this century. Forest dieback may follow, the researchers warn. Click here to read more

Models for adopting a circular economy are largely aimed at large corporations. Recent research looks at six smaller enterprises in the UK and the EU to characterise the tools, opportunities and challenges affecting successful transitions. This study presents a framework identifying the key stages in the circular economy transition process and highlights the importance of engaging with the wider environmental, social and business context. Click here to read more