Reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and the transition to a low carbon economy are without doubt the highest priorities of energy and environmental policies and strategies in many developed countries. Industry has an important impact on both sides, significantly contributing to the GDP, while emitting GHG, also significantly. Industry accounts for over 30% of the final energy consumed in the world and more than 40% of all GHG emissions (taking into account discharges in the use and conversion of fuels, process discharges and indirect discharges of electricity and district heating). Mitigation policy measures in general are dictated mainly by environmental and energy policies, energy supply requirements and business interests of various actors. In this research paper, the GHG emissions trends in Slovenian industry are presented, taking into account discharges in the use and conversion of fuels and process discharges. Furthermore, GHG mitigation policy targeting industrial sector is reviewed and discussed, to highlight the existing and proposed measures and industrial practices. The results of the research work show that GHG emissions in Slovenian industry sector are decreasing, mostly due to energy efficiency measures and process improvements that can mostly be attributed to the individual initiatives of energy intensive industries. The transition to a low-carbon economy is somewhat of a great development opportunity and challenge for the Slovenian industry, since it is necessary to reduce costs, while achieving the best environmental, economic and technological effects. Mitigation policy and corresponding GHG reduction measures should be implemented in a way to support the interdependent aspects of such transition.
B.03 Paper at an international scientific conference
COBISS.SI-ID: 32015143If properly planned the utilisation of renewable energy sources (RES) enables significant direct and indirect benefits and provides opportunities for technological development, employment and regional growth. However, from the implementation point of view, there is a need for initiatives and support schemes that will correct current energy market imperfections and promote concrete actions for exploiting RES for electricity generation. In a world of uncertain energy prices and rapid changes, effective support scheme for electricity generation from RES requires a clear vision of energy development strategy on a national level. The aim of this paper is to objectively evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the support scheme for electricity generation from RES in Slovenia and to outline the most important targets and challenges for future development. Additionally, the research work described in this paper analyses the effects of the support scheme along with environmental, economic and societal benefits of RES utilisation in Slovenia. The future challenges of the RES utilisation in Slovenia are related to follow-up activities and continuous refinement of the support scheme to enable smooth transformation toward low carbon economy and creation of sustainable energy jobs.
B.03 Paper at an international scientific conference
COBISS.SI-ID: 31415335We have successfully completed comprehensive study for the European Commission on transposition and implementation of EURATOM Drinking Water Directive 2013/51/ERATOM in European Union Member States (MS). The directive lays down requirements for the protection of the health of the general public with regard to radioactive substances in water intended for human consumption and represents important document in ensuring human health and protection from radioactive substances. The study identified good practices and areas for possible improvement, which provided European Commission all necessary elements to decide on the completeness and adequacy of transposition and implementation of the directive in each Member State. The results of the study were presented to the Member States of the European Union and other stakeholders at workshop. The results will serve as a basis for the European Commission action against an individual Member State which has not been properly transposed of the said Directive into practice.
F.30 Professional assessment of the situation
COBISS.SI-ID: 32237095Presented research involves identification of polluter source by tracking oil spills caused by ships and sea platforms by using satellite imaging data and backtracking of sea currents from ship AIS historical data that all commercial vessels are obliged to transmit. Methodology provides possibility to identify polluters even though release of the pollutant was not noticed. This is often the case as releases of pollutants are often done at night in order to disguise it. By enabling more efficient identification of the pollution sources, possibility of polluters being uncaught and unsanctioned are minimized.
F.18 Transfer of new know-how to direct users (seminars, fora, conferences)
COBISS.SI-ID: 2953571The “International Conference Nuclear Energy for New Europe” was organised. It was attended by 159 participants from 26 countries, who contributed altogether 97 papers. The leading theme of the conference was the Role of Nuclear Energy in Decarbonisation of Energetics and Society, addressing in particular energy, climate and economic aspects of nuclear energy in the present as well as future energy supply. Apart from the regular papers, there were six invited speeches, given by eminent scientists and specialists from several countries. The invited opening speakers emphasised the important role of nuclear energy in introducing new low-carbon production technologies. The three speakers were then accompanied by additional three panellists in a roundtable on ”The Role of Nuclear for Our Energy Future” discussing the challenges and opportunities of nuclear energy, the research and development of nuclear infrastructures, and touching also upon particular issues of actual elaboration of the Slovenian energy-climate policy. Following the conference, the Proceedings was issued, containing peer reviewed scientific contributions presented at the conference. The presented contributions will eventually support decision-makers in energy sector, both in Slovenia and world-wide.
B.01 Organiser of a scientific meeting
COBISS.SI-ID: 303752192