Exergy and Sustainability

Abstract

A thorough qualitative investigation of the relation between exergy losses and environmental problems has been conducted. Environmental effects being taken into account include climate change, acidification, eutrophication, disposal and dissipation. It is concluded that almost all environmental effects can be taken into account by studying the waste of feedstocks and energy caused by technological activities, like processes, and the emission and dispersion of pollutants. To underpin the qualitative investigation two case studies have been conducted: the production of aluminium and polystyrene. On the basis of the results of the case studies it can be made plausible that exergy losses and environmental impact are related. Exergy losses are a kind of environmental impact, whereas environmental impact is related to exergy loss. It is concluded that exergy loss is at least a qualitative measure that can be used in environmental policy making regarding technological processes. According to literature, exergy losses should be minimized to obtain a more sustainable development. During a follow-up study the relation between exergy and sustainability will be investigated in more detail, partly based on basic principles borrowed from nature. Apart from environmental impact also others aspects of sustainability, like economic and social aspects, will be taken into account.