Massey Documents by Type

Permanent URI for this communityhttps://mro.massey.ac.nz/handle/10179/294

Browse

Search Results

Now showing 1 - 10 of 36
  • Item
    Ergonomics/human factors and the future of work: A global systems perspective
    (Elsevier Limited, 2026-02) Thatcher A; Acquah AA; Aublet-Cuvelier A; Becker R; Bentley T; Boatca ME; Braatz D; Cheng H-I; Coutarel F; Gangopadhyay S; Green N; Heaton N; Hsiao H; Ma L; Mochimaru M; Mrugalska B; Nitsch V; Oliveira PABO; Park T; Reiman A; Rodriguez Y; Roth G; Salve UR; Seva R; Tisch A; Todd A; Torres Y; Yagi Y; Yin S; Zhang W
    In a webinar series hosted by the International Ergonomics Association, the Future of Work Committee of the International Ergonomics Association gathered inputs about the future of work from ergonomics/human factors (E/HF) experts representing different regions around the world. Through these insights, four global megatrends relevant to E/HF driving the future of work were identified: labour-market supply; work informality; technology; and climate change. Next, we applied an E/HF systems approach, using causal loop diagrams, to explore the unfolding interrelationships between these megatrends at a global level and with a national level example to determine what novel insights can be uncovered using systems analysis. We demonstrate the power of E/HF systems thinking that can enable national E/HF societies and regional think-tanks to move beyond a siloed approach to megatrends. We conclude with some high-level suggestions for E/HF to consider in order to meet the future of work challenges.
  • Item
    Greenhouse gas mitigation in pasture-based dairy production systems in New Zealand: A review of mitigation options and their interactions
    (Elsevier B.V., 2025-08) Kalehe Kankanamge E; Ramilan T; Tozer PR; de Klein C; Romera A; Pieralli S
    Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from dairy farming is crucial for mitigating climate change and enhancing the environmental credentials of New Zealand's dairy exports. This paper aims to explore potential GHG mitigation measures and their interactive effects when combined within New Zealand context, emphasising the practicality of these combinations, particularly focusing on recent studies of pasture-based dairy systems. The review assesses various mitigation options across animal, manure management, feed-based, soil-related, and system-related interventions and identifies immediately applicable mitigation options based on specific criteria. It also discusses the implementation costs, implications on emissions, and the combined effects of these options when applied as bundles in pasture-based systems using a combination matrix. It is indicated that mitigation options on New Zealand's dairy farms can yield diverse outcomes and costs based on farming characteristics. By analysing different combinations of short-listed, it was found that although most mitigation options are compatible, some may have a lower overall reduction potential because of interaction effects. Integrating lower N fertiliser use, low-emission feed, and reduced stocking rates with high-performing animals provides a practical approach for GHG reductions and potential cost savings. However, implementing compatible mitigation bundles requires better quantification of their interactions, economic viability, and compatibility with existing farming systems which need further research.
  • Item
    Contrasting styles, some substance: 5 experts on the first TV leaders’ debate of NZ’s election
    (The Conversation Media Group Ltd, 2020-09-22) Duncan G; Hayward B; Godfery M; Shaw R; Wiles S
  • Item
    Anthropogenic effects on the concentration of hydroxyl radicals in the troposphere : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand
    (Massey University, 2025-08-30) Pope, Jade
    This thesis investigated the use of a TiO₂ catalyst to increase atmospheric ·OH concentrations in order to reduce atmospheric CH₄ concentrations, an important greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change effects. Firstly, a reference library of important atmospheric molecules was created using the Matrix-Isolation technique coupled with Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (MI-FTIR). The spectra collected for these molecules were assigned using a combination of literature data and data calculated by Gaussian-16 software. This reference library was then used to create correction functions that could be applied to spectra collected of other molecules. Detection of ·OH was then attempted using the MI-FTIR technique, combined with Tesla-coil discharge applied to gas-phase water mixtures to form the radicals. This technique was ultimately deemed unsuitable due to difficulties in detection. A spectrofluorophotometer was then used as the excitation source, in combination with a built in-house cell that housed a TiO₂-coated slide in the presence of water and hydrocarbons, detected by a residual gas analyser (RGA). The results of these experiments were also inconclusive due to detection difficulties. The photocatalytic activity of TiO₂ slides under aqueous conditions was tested and confirmed using probe molecules of coumarin and terephthalic acid to detect for ·OH oxidation products using emission fluorescence spectroscopy, from which a quantum yield for ·OH formation under aqueous conditions was established. Finally, a rough atmospheric model was established to give insight to the effect of changing atmospheric concentrations of molecules on other concentrations. A perturbation rate for a specific particle density of TiO₂ was added to this model to establish the effect on the concentrations, and it was found that CH₄ and O₃ experienced significant decreases. Overall, TiO₂ was predicted to be an appropriate atmospheric catalyst for removal of methane, but further research is required for implementation.
  • Item
    Global trends in length of stay: implications for destination management and climate change
    (Taylor and Francis Group, 2018-12-23) Gössling S; Scott D; Hall CM
    Length-of-stay (LOS) is a key parameter in destination management that determines the number of guest nights relative to arrival numbers, with concomitant repercussions for revenue generation and other performance indicators. This article investigates the development of LOS for 32 destinations in developed and emerging economies as well as Small Islands and Developing States (SIDS). The analysis is based on UNWTO data for 478.5 million international tourist arrivals, or about 40% of the global total in 2015, for the years 1995–2015. Results show considerable differences in LOS between destinations, with a global trend of falling LOS, by 14.8% over the study period. However, in individual destination countries, LOS was found to be increasing. Analyses of LOS trends reveal that these can neither be explained by distance–decay relationships nor business to leisure arrival ratios. Results are discussed with regard for destination management and revenue optimisation, transport infrastructure needs, as well as sector greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Item
    A virtual geobibliography of polar tourism and climate change
    (Taylor and Francis Group, 2024-09-01) Demiroglu OC; Bohn D; Dannevig H; Hall CM; Hehir C; Lundmark L; Nilsson RO; Olsen J; Tervo-Kankare K; Vereda M; Welling J
    The polar regions are increasingly at the center of attention as the hot spots of climate crisis as well as tourism development. The recent IPCC reports highlight several climate change risks for the rather carbon-intensive and weather-based/dependent polar tourism industry in the Arctic and the Antarctic. This study presents the scholarly state-of-knowledge on tourism and climate change in the polar regions with a literature survey extending beyond the Anglophone publications. As a supporting tool, we provide a live web GIS application based on the geographical coverages of the publications and filterable by various spatial, thematic and bibliographical attributes. The final list of 137 publications indicates that, regionally, the Arctic has been covered more than the Antarctic, whilst an uneven distribution within the Arctic also exists. In terms of the climate change risks themes, climate risk research, i.e. impact and adaptation studies, strongly outnumbers the carbon risk studies especially in the Arctic context, and, despite a balance between the two main risk themes, climate risk research in the Antarctic proves itself outdated. Accordingly, the review ends with a research agenda based on these spatial and thematic gaps and their detailed breakdowns.
  • Item
    Representations of Youth Climate Anxiety: A Framing Analysis of Emotional Responses to the Climate Crisis in International News Media
    (Taylor and Francis Group, 2025-06-02) Murray L; Breheny M; Cumming R; Doig T; Erueti B; Mooney M; Severinsen C; Shanly J
    Reports of children feeling distressed, anxious, or angry about the impacts of climate change have appeared in the international news media with increasing frequency since 2019. There is international evidence that young people are increasingly worried about climate change, and such distress negatively affects their daily lives. The ways that such distress is framed in public discourse vary widely. We conducted a framing analysis of 274 articles from the international news media (published between 2019 and 2021) to explore how the media frames young peoples' emotional reactions to the climate crisis. Our findings revealed three key frames: (1) Climate distress as inevitable “teen angst” fueled by activists and the media. (2) Climate distress as an appropriate response to a genuine threat, and (3) Climate distress as embodied social suffering caused by societal inaction on climate change. These framings of negative emotional responses to climate change have implications for public health responses to youth mental health in a changing climate. Framing distress in terms of social suffering brings about productive possibilities for social change. This framing avoids pathologizing widely felt experiences, builds empathy between generations, and situates young people's mental distress in the context of their present and unfolding social milieu.
  • Item
    Policy implications of time-differentiated climate change analysis in life cycle assessment of building elements in Aotearoa New Zealand
    (Springer-Verlag GmbH, 2025-03-21) McLaren SJ; Elliot T; Dowdell D; Wakelin S; Kouchaki-Penchah H; Levasseur A; Hoxha E
    Purpose: Climate change policies are increasingly including time-dependent carbon targets for different economic activities. However, current standards and guidelines for climate change assessment of buildings ignore these dynamic aspects and require use of static life cycle assessment (LCA). This research investigates how to better account for the timing of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and removals in LCAs of buildings and construction products, using a static and dynamic LCA case study of roofs, walls and floors in Aotearoa New Zealand residential dwellings. Methods: Static and dynamic LCA methods were used to assess the climate change impact of two assemblies each for external walls, ground floors and roofs used in stand-alone residential dwellings in Aotearoa New Zealand. Each assembly was modelled for a life cycle extending from material production, through to element construction, operational use, and final end-of-life treatment. Results were calculated as total GWP100 results for each life cycle stage, GWP100 results disaggregated into time periods, and as instantaneous and cumulative radiative forcing up to year 190. Sensitivity analysis was undertaken for the building reference service life, exposure zone, location, and end-of-life treatment. Results and discussion: Four time-related aspects were found to be particularly significant as regards their contribution to the final static LCA (sLCA) climate change results: -Inclusion versus exclusion of biogenic carbon storage in landfill -Modelling of end-of-life recycling activities using current versus future low or net zero carbon technologies (in module D) -Building reference service life (50 versus 90 years) -Choice of modelling parameters for landfilled timber and engineered wood products. Use of dynamic LCA (dLCA) enabled priorities to be identified for climate change mitigation actions in the shorter and longer term, and showed that half of the assemblies achieved net zero carbon by year 190 (timber wall, steel wall, timber floor). Conclusions: Timing of GHG emissions and removals should be included in LCAs to support decision-making in the context of achieving targets set in climate change policies. In particular, LCA results should show ongoing biogenic carbon storage in landfilled timber and engineered wood products. Carbon footprint standards, guidelines and calculation tools should be prescriptive about building and construction product reference service lives, the EofL fate for different materials/products, and modelling of forestry and landfill activities, to provide a level playing field for stakeholders.
  • Item
    The political economics of civic energy: A framework for comparative research
    (Elsevier B.V., 2025-01-02) Berka AL; Hoicka C; Sperling K
    Deep civic engagement in energy transitions has been limited and unique to specific political economic contexts. This study develops a generic policy mix enabling civic energy, drawing on a systematic overview of barriers and policies for civic energy by country and region from 1980 to 2023. We show that when policy mixes support widespread diffusion of civic energy, they are likely to be “thick”; meaning that they align a wide range of corporate legal, market access, energy subsidy, localised planning and facilitation, access to finance, and capacity building policies - extending well beyond the domain of energy policy. Literature suggests that “thick” policy mixes emerge in contexts where there are narratives and conscious strategies for participation, political opportunities and resources mobilised towards enabling participation, with high degrees of fiscal and legislative decentralisation and policy coordination. In contrast, contexts characterised by low levels of civic energy are posited as having “thin” policy mixes, with limited opportunity for inclusive visioning or experimentation in multi-stakeholder platforms, limited decentralisation and policy coordination, resulting in marginalisation of civic arenas, conflicting framings and lack of high-level strategies for civic participation. We identify countries characterised by thick and thin policy mixes based on literature and identify research needed to confirm the existence of exclusive and inclusive governance and policy settings in relation to key indicators for both inclusivity and speed of transitions, allowing for better articulation of the value of inclusive innovation as a practical and beneficial approach to meeting emission reduction goals.
  • Item
    Towards use of life cycle–based indicators to support continuous improvement in the environmental performance of avocado orchards in New Zealand
    (Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, 2024-02) Majumdar S; McLaren SJ
    Purpose A life cycle assessment (LCA) study was undertaken for the orchard stage of the NZ avocado value chain, to guide the development of indicators for facilitating continuous improvement in its environmental profile. Methods The functional unit (FU) was 1 kg Hass avocados produced in NZ, up to the orchard gate. The baseline model assessed avocados produced in fully productive orchards, using input data collected from 49 orchards across 281 ha in the three main avocado growing regions of New Zealand. In addition, the non-productive and low production years of avocado orchards were assessed using data from four newly established avocado operations spread across 489 ha. Climate change, eutrophication, water use, freshwater ecotoxicity and terrestrial ecotoxicity results were calculated for each orchard. Finally, national scores were calculated for each impact category from the weighted averages of the individual orchard results in the baseline sample of the three studied regions. Results There was significant variability between orchards in different input quantities, as well as impact scores. The impact assessment results showed that fuel use and fertiliser/soil conditioner production and use on orchard were consistently the main hotspots for all impact categories except water use, where impacts were generally dominated by indirect water use (irrespective of whether the orchards were irrigated or not). When considering the entire orchard lifespan, the commercially productive stage of the orchard life contributed the most to all impact category results. However, the impacts associated with 1 kg avocados, when allocated based on the total impacts across the orchard lifespan, were 13–26% higher than the baseline results which considered only the commercially productive years of the orchard life. Conclusion The study identified the priority areas for focussed improvement efforts (in particular, fertiliser and fuel use for all impact categories, and agrichemical use for the ecotoxicity impacts). Second, the regional- and national-level impact scores obtained in this study can be used as benchmarks in indicator development to show growers their relative ranking in terms of environmental performance. When using the indicators and benchmarks in a monitoring scheme, consideration should be given to developing separate benchmarks (using area-based functional units) for young orchards. It will also be necessary to develop a better understanding of the reasons for the variability in inputs and impacts so that benchmarks can be tailored to account fairly and equitably for the variability between orchards and regions.