Manasa Prabhakar

 

Watch Manasa Prabhakar take the lead in presenting whether an international aviation tax, if imposed, would negatively impact tourism. Backed by both quantitative and qualitative findings, she demonstrates that such a tax would primarily serve as an additional revenue stream for vulnerable nations—least developed countries and small island developing states—whose GDPs heavily rely on tourism. This revenue could help offset their adaptation costs. She also proposes a governance framework to ensure that these funds are responsibly allocated to these nations, recommending the UN Loss and Damage Fund as a key mechanism.

From a consumer perspective, the tax would lead to an average increase of $20 to $40 on an international ticket priced at around $800. Using demand elasticity, she argues that this cost would likely have little impact on first-class and business-class passengers. However, further analysis through surveys is needed to assess the effect on economy-class travelers. Economically and environmentally, she emphasizes that this modest investment today could save hundreds in climate-related costs in the future.

Overall, Manasa and her team of 14 were the first to make the concept of international taxation for aviation appear viable. She asserts, “We strongly encourage our client to present this proposal to country representatives, the UN, and other development bodies for discussion. I am confident it will resonate. It is only just and fair that an industry long excluded from climate negotiations finally pays its share for the immense emissions it generates. This must happen eventually—so let’s take action now. The best part is, it brings a strong motivation and commitment to transitioning toward sustainable aviation fuel.”

 

The full report can be read here: Is Chennai Prepared for Induction Cooking – Manasa Prabhakar

                   

Background

In Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) is the predominant fuel for cooking in both residential and commercial settings. LPG is favored for its efficiency, ease of use, quick heating capabilities, and relatively low cost. The rapid urbanization and growth of Chennai have led to increased LPG consumption, with significant demand from both households and commercial establishments such as restaurants and hotels.

Despite its advantages, LPG is a fossil fuel with associated environmental and health impacts. Its combustion produces greenhouse gases like CO2, contributing to global warming. The extraction and distribution processes also lead to environmental degradation. Health concerns include indoor air pollution from CO, NOx, and unburnt hydrocarbons, which can cause respiratory issues and eye irritation. Additionally, LPG’s flammability poses safety risks, including potential fires and explosions.

As the world shifts toward electrification, including in the cooking sector, initiatives are being launched to transition from LPG to electric cooking methods. In India, the National Efficient Cooking Programme (NECP), spearheaded by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), promotes induction cook stoves. This program aims to deploy 2 million induction stoves nationwide to reduce environmental impact and improve air quality. The NECP is supported by Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS) and aligns with broader energy transition goals, including PM Narendra Modi’s endorsement of solar PV e-cookstoves.

Objective of the Study

The study aims to evaluate Chennai’s readiness for adopting electric cooking, specifically induction stoves. Since this is an exploratory study, the following research questions have been identified:
1. How do household composition, income levels, education, and occupation influence cooking practices and the adoption of modern cooking technologies in Chennai households?
2. What roles do household members play in purchasing cooking items, preparing meals, and managing fuel payments, and how do these roles impact the choice of cooking methods in Chennai?
3. What factors contribute to the current levels of satisfaction with LPG stove usage among households in Chennai?
4. How do Chennai households perceive induction stoves’ safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness compared to LPG stoves?
5. What are the primary barriers preventing the adoption of induction stoves in Chennai households?
6. What factors influence the willingness of Chennai households to pay for induction stoves and compatible cookware?
7. How do Chennai households perceive the environmental and health impacts of using LPG stoves, and how do these perceptions influence their cooking fuel choices?

Scope and Significance

This research focuses on the practicality of transitioning from LPG to induction cooking in Chennai, including both residential and commercial contexts. It provides insights into household acceptance and the benefits and challenges of this transition. The study aims to support policy development and program implementation, contributing valuable data for scaling up induction cooking and advancing India’s climate goals.

Limitations

The study is exploratory and serves as a preliminary investigation. It has limitations, including an uneven sample distribution across income levels and challenges related to remote survey administration. The study also excludes input from wage earners and migrant workers, which could provide additional insights.

Methodology

The survey involved 22 households and one restaurant in Chennai, selected to represent various income levels. Households were categorized into three income groups, and the commercial establishment provided insights into high-volume cooking operations. A discretionary sampling approach was used due to the exploratory nature of the study. The survey was conducted via Google Forms, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data.

This research offers a foundational understanding of Chennai’s readiness for induction cooking, providing data that can inform future studies and policy efforts to support the transition to more sustainable cooking practices.

While a complete transition to induction cooking within the next few years may not be feasible, it is advisable to promote the use of LPG alongside induction stoves (fuel stacking). Households should be encouraged to increase their use of induction cooking while continuing to rely on LPG.

 

The Role of Energy in Shaping the Future of Cities

As we envision the future, three themes intertwine: cities, energy, and inequality. This article delves into the world of cities, the bustling hubs of density that offer a multitude of efficiencies in terms of energy and equal distribution (or do they?).

Densification: A Double-Edged Sword

Source: The Discoverer Blog (https://www.thediscoverer.com/blog/the-most-crowded-cities-in-the-world/XvHyVpKgiwAG5ail)

High density offers benefits in land use, transport, and infrastructure. Urban sprawl is minimized, existing infrastructure is utilized effectively, and essential services, amenities, and workplaces are often within walking, cycling, or public transportation distance. This reduces car usage and allows for the cost-effective sharing of essential resources like water, sewage, and electricity networks. However, the very energy that fuels city growth can also contribute to heightened wealth, consumption, and the urban heat island effect. Bustling city centers often rely on energy-intensive systems, leading to a larger carbon footprint. Densely packed buildings can trap heat, raising temperatures and requiring even more energy for cooling.

Energy Beyond Electricity:

Source: Adobe Stock (https://stock.adobe.com/images/the-source-of-consciousness-energy-of-the-universe-life-force-prana-the-mind-of-god-and-spirituality-generative-ai/560521452)

When discussing energy for cities, we often think of electricity, fuel, and resources that power buildings and infrastructure. However, there’s another crucial form: the human spirit. Vaclav Smil, a leading energy researcher, reminds us: “Energy is the only universal currency… one of its many forms must be transformed to another in order for stars to shine, planets to rotate, plants to grow, and civilizations to evolve.” Just like our bodies, cities are powered by fuel. The food we eat gets transformed into fuel, allowing us to think, solve problems, and dream up innovative ideas. A bustling city market exemplifies this principle; every bite of a fresh apple fuels the minds of professionals, artists, engineers, and entrepreneurs who then spark the development of visible forms of energy. Professionals devise energy-efficient policies, architects use this to design buildings powered by the sun and wind, and engineers develop technologies that reduce energy consumption and demand new policies, creating a continuous cycle of innovation.

The Interconnected City:

Source: Travelers (https://www.travelers.com/resources/business-industries/technology/how-smart-cities-prepare-for-tech-infrastructure-risks)

Beyond the human spirit, cities rely on an intricate web of trade woven within them. Every morsel of food, every drop of water, every flicker of energy originates from beyond their immediate boundaries. While we invest in international partnerships, do we extend the same diligence to our own cities? The answer is often no. The comforts we enjoy today are often taken for granted, delivered seamlessly without apparent effort. Imagine Singapore, Chennai, or New York without a robust energy supply – their achievements would be nonexistent. Cities are sustained by the constant influx and interrelation of resources – food, water, fuel, etc. – that nourish their vitality and fuel their progress. While we are happy to welcome these resources, we often rush to exploit them as soon as they arrive. This short-sighted approach fails to acknowledge the potential for waste as a resource and the need to re-evaluate air conditioning reliance.

Waste as a Resource:

As we delve deeper into urban dynamics, waste, often seen as an inconvenience, emerges as complex and surprisingly energy-rich. Take New York City’s garbage on Mondays – its volume significantly increases due to the bulky Sunday New York Times. While residents embraced recycling initiatives, much of this “recycled” material ends up accumulating in landfills, slowly transforming into methane. However, research by Oukili et al. (2022) estimated that a Moroccan landfill site produced approximately 17,800,000 kWh of electrical energy in 2020.

This highlights the crucial point: we must acknowledge the untapped energy potential within our waste streams.

The Challenge of Air Conditioning:
Another facet of urban energy dynamics is cooling. Air conditioning, accounting for a significant portion of building energy use, plays a vital role in urban comfort. However, its widespread use worsens the urban heat island effect, impacting labor productivity and even increasing morbidity and mortality rates. This “cool crunch” underscores the urgent need for building efficiency measures, particularly in rapidly urbanizing countries like China, India, and Indonesia, to mitigate the escalating demand for air conditioning. Projections indicate a dramatic rise in household air conditioning usage, with the global stock estimated to grow to 5.13 billion by 2050, up from 1.6 billion today (Air Conditioners Market – Global Forecasts to 2029, n.d.).

So, what’s next? Is density truly advantageous, or not? Perhaps density holds some merits to a certain extent. However, it is crucial to prioritize the integration of greater energy efficiency into our environment. Moreover, let’s not disregard the significance of ensuring equitable access for all individuals. Simply being fortunate enough to have been born on the favorable side of the planet doesn’t justify monopolizing all the benefits. On the contrary, those on the less privileged side deserve enhanced access to opportunities. Acknowledging our own privilege, let’s adhere to the principle of “Focus on what you have, not what you wish you had, and focus on what you need, not what you want.” Others also deserve a good quality of life.

And what comes after that? Understanding the interconnectedness of all energy forms in the universe, irrespective of one’s belief in science. The stark reality, demonstrated through Quantum mechanics and proven through the ages, is that the universe comprises space filled with fields of vibration, interconnected, unified, and in constant communication. Distance and time hold no significance; one end of the Universe moves in connection with the other, with everything in between constituting a grand movement or dance held in space. In truth, our lives and everything in the entire universe are not just connected but inseparable.

Therefore, it’s entirely acceptable to live an extravagant life in a bustling city. However, let’s contemplate how our actions impact the next moment, all through energy. If one form of energy is harmful, it will inevitably affect other forms, including our very existence in the subsequent moment. Whether it’s waste, food, water, fuel, goods, or services, everything influences energy, and in turn, energy influences us.

~ Manasa Prabhakar

 

References:

Oukili, A. I., Mouloudi, M., & Chhiba, M. (2022). LandGEM biogas estimation, energy potential and carbon footprint assessments of a controlled landfill site. case of the controlled landfill of Mohammedia-Benslimane, Morocco. Journal of Ecological Engineering, 23(3), 116–129. https://doi.org/10.12911/22998993/145410 

Air conditioners market – Global forecasts to 2029. (n.d.). https://refindustry.com/news/market-research/air-conditioners-market-global-forecasts-to-2029/ 

 

In the bustling metropolis of New York City, managing waste effectively is not just a challenge; it’s imperative for the city’s and its inhabitants’ health. Enter SIMS Municipal Recycling – Sunset Park Material Recovery Facility, a pivotal player in the city’s waste management infrastructure. SIMS operates on a simple yet profound principle: treating only recyclables and not the garbage. This distinction is crucial, as it underscores the importance of separating waste at its source. The municipal waste collecting agency gathers recyclables exclusively, ferrying them to SIMS for processing. Yet, despite the meticulous systems in place for waste separation, the reality often falls short of expectations. Residents, at times, neglect proper sorting, leading to additional burdens on SIMS, necessitating segregation efforts that extend beyond their designated scope.

Within SIMS’ state-of-the-art facilities, technology reigns supreme. The facility operates round-the-clock with a staggering 75% operational capacity, ensuring continuous waste treatment. Boasting the title of North America’s largest waste management facility, SIMS employs cutting-edge machinery, minimizing human involvement while maximizing efficiency. Advanced sorting mechanisms, including laser object detectors, optical sorters, AI robotics, and remote arms, facilitate the meticulous separation of recyclables, achieving an impressive 90% accuracy rate in waste treatment.

One particularly fascinating aspect is that SIMS is the first agency in NYC to integrate wind turbines into its premises for electricity generation. This demonstrates their commitment to environmental responsibility, which extends beyond waste treatment to sustainable energy sourcing.

Recycling process at SIMS:

Disc Screens: First, spinning metal rods break the glass materials from amongst the others. The glass falls through 2.5-inch holes onto another conveyor belt. The glass is then sent to their glass plant, and the remaining materials roll to the next step. (Remember to kindly leave plastic caps on plastic bottles so they won’t be lost in the glass stream!)

Drum Magnet: A powerful magnet that pulls all ferrous metals (metals containing iron, making them magnetic) out of the material mix, like tin cans, paint cans, and even wire hangers. Ferrous metals are then sent to the trommel where they are sorted by size. (Remember to kindly remove metal caps from plastic or glass bottles so they may be recovered).

Optical scanners: Near-infrared light is used to identify different types of materials like rigid plastics (PET, HDPE, PP), cartons, and plastic bags. When the screener finds what it has been programmed to look for, it cues an air jet that shoots the item onto another conveyor belt.

Eddy Current Separator: A “reverse magnet” that charges non-magnetic metals and then repels them onto another conveyor belt. The most common items sorted here are aluminum cans and foil, but they could also include copper and brass. (In NYC, any item that is at least 50% metal can be recycled).

Quality control specialists: Their system is mostly automated, but humans will give many material lines one final check. QC specialists remove materials that do not belong and recover materials of value before sorted items head to a bunker. (There are about 12 QC specialists working during each shift).

Bunkers: After materials are sorted, they end up in one of the bunkers. When the bunker is full, one of its doors will open, and the materials are fed into one of the balers.

Balers: Compress sorted materials into blocks, ready for transport to companies that will make the materials into new things.

The residents play a pivotal role in this ecosystem of waste management. Each household is responsible for proper waste disposal, with distinct bins designated for recyclables, organic waste, and general trash. The blue bins accommodate metals, glass, cartons, and rigid plastics, while the green bins cater to mixed paper and cardboard materials. However, the grey bin, reserved for non-recyclable items, remains a cause for concern. Despite concerted efforts to promote recycling and waste reduction, significant challenges persist, with a portion of waste inevitably destined for landfills. It’s crucial for residents to understand that proper waste sorting not only facilitates recycling but also minimizes the strain on landfill space. My team and I from Columbia University practically realized this urgency during our field study.

What is even more shocking and heartbreaking is the sheer volume of waste generated by NYC in just half a day – the room below contains only the waste generated in that short span, amounting to hundreds of tons.

Encouragingly, efforts are underway to address these issues, with initiatives like Columbia University’s comprehensive waste management program as a sustainability beacon.

Columbia University has implemented a multi-faceted approach to waste management, encompassing the segregation of recyclables, organics, and general waste across its campus. As you can see below, Columbia aims to reduce contamination and increase recycling rates by providing designated bins for each waste stream and promoting awareness among students and staff.

One notable aspect of Columbia’s initiatives is the introduction of organic waste bins, acknowledging the importance of diverting food waste from landfills. Additionally, the university has taken proactive measures to encourage responsible disposal of hazardous materials, such as batteries, further highlighting its commitment to environmental stewardship. The picture below covers the four types of bins maintained on the campus, including a separate small one for batteries.

Beyond waste segregation, Columbia Dining has spearheaded initiatives to promote sustainability in its operations. From utilizing post-consumer recycled content in napkins to transitioning to compostable paper straws and plant-based cups, the dining program sets a precedent for eco-conscious practices. The estimated 6.6 million napkins used annually in Columbia Dining are made of 100% post-consumer recycled content. 2018 Columbia Dining transitioned to 100% compostable paper straws and plant-based cold cups. They recycle more than one million bottles and cans and more than 150,000 cardboard boxes each year.

Moreover, the provision of reusable eco-containers underscores a commitment to reducing single-use plastics and minimizing waste generation.

As we navigate the complexities of waste management in urban environments, it’s essential for individuals and institutions alike to embrace sustainable practices. By adhering to proper waste sorting guidelines, minimizing the consumption of non-recyclable materials, and supporting initiatives promoting environmental stewardship, we can collectively work towards a cleaner, greener future for future generations.

~ Manasa Prabhakar

 

Imagine a hurricane slams your town/city, leaving behind a landscape of shattered bridges, flooded streets, and silent phone lines. The immediate needs are clear: rescue, shelter, and restoring order. But amidst the chaos, a crucial question emerges: how can we rebuild not just faster, but better?

The answer lies in governance: the policies, processes, people and technology behind infrastructure development. While crisis management focuses on quick fixes, strengthening governance can build long-term resilience, safeguarding communities from future disasters.

The Current Challenge:
Traditionally, disaster response focuses on immediate repairs, often overlooking the bigger picture. We patch cracked roads, rebuild damaged bridges, and restore basic services. But this reactive approach risks repeating the cycle of destruction with each new disaster.

A New Roadmap:
1. Policy:
This translates to a strategic shift in how we plan and invest in infrastructure. Imagine establishing dedicated emergency funds that can spring into action immediately, ensuring critical systems like power grids, roads and hospitals are prioritized for repair. We can also learn from the experiences of other disaster-prone regions, adapting best practices to our own context. Think of it as building a well-stocked first-aid kit, prepared for a range of potential injuries.
2. Process:
Imagine a well-oiled machine kicking into gear when disaster strikes. Robust early warning systems provide timely and accurate information, while streamlined response procedures ensure efficient execution. Moreover, engaging communities in preparedness drills and decision-making processes fosters trust, ownership, and a sense of shared responsibility. It’s like having a well-rehearsed emergency evacuation plan that everyone knows and understands.
3. People:
Disaster resilience extends beyond physical infrastructure. Empowering communities through training and resources allows them to prepare for and respond to disasters more effectively. We must also address social and economic inequalities that exacerbate vulnerabilities, ensuring equitable access to resources and services before, during, and after disasters. Imagine a community where everyone feels equipped and included in the response effort, promoting a collective sense of resilience.
4. Technology:
Technology plays a crucial role in building smart and resilient infrastructure. Sensor-based technologies can provide real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance, enabling proactive interventions before problems escalate. Data analytics can inform risk assessments, resource allocation, and infrastructure development strategies. Think of it as having a network of intelligent sensors constantly monitoring the health of our infrastructure, ready to alert us to potential issues.

Moving Forward:
Investing in strong governance for disaster-ready infrastructure is not a one-time solution; it’s an ongoing journey of research, innovation, and adaptation.

Comparative studies can help us identify best practices in governance frameworks from around the world. Public-private partnerships can leverage expertise and resources for innovative solutions. Social impact studies can assess the effectiveness of different approaches in building community resilience. Finally, technology impact assessments can ensure we harness the power of emerging technologies ethically and responsibly.

By strengthening these four pillars of governance and actively pursuing further research, we can move beyond disaster response and build infrastructure that stands tall, not just after the storm, but for generations to come.