Based on many years of experience in relevant studies and research projects, analysis and evaluation of investments of every kind of economic activity is undertaken. In fact, taking into account techno-economic, environmental and social criteria, the following methods are being used:
• Cost - Benefit Analysis (CBA)
• Analysis throughout the project life cycle (LCA),
• Multi-criteria analysis
Additionally, special software can be used depending on the case: UMBERTO, SIMARRO, ELECTRE

Risk analysis is an area of research, where while taking into account the risk factor in relation with the possibilities of impacts, it is conducted sensitivity analysis aiming for the techno-economic evaluation of the investment. Special software and simulation models, statistical analysis and other approaches are being used.

The research in the field of engineering economics focuses on optimizing the use of resources in production systems in order to maximize their performance, giving emphasis on sustainability.

Techno-economical assessment of environmental investments, in order to determine the requirements of standard systems, which will be harmonized to the principles of sustainable development, taking into account the protection of the environment, especially. At the same time, developed methodologies are being used for the environmental impact assessment of projects and, also, financial tools for creating incentives for the implementation of environmental projects.

Design and optimization of environmental planning at businesses and organizations. The applications cover the fields of the Solid, Liquid and Gaseous Waste, the Energy Management, and the savings of resources in order to make optimal use of all materials and products.

With the aid of an interdisciplinary research team composed of specialists of various disciplines (engineers, lawyers, economists, etc.), the assessment and the analysis of environmental investment projects is undertaken, using modern financial tools and special software, aiming at planning and implementation optimization of sustainable and profitable projects.

It concerns the use of operational research methods for the creation and the implementation of relevant Decision Support Systems, in order to optimize the evaluation of all types of environmental investments (e.g. Units of Waste Management/Recycling, Power Plants, Desalination Plants, Liquid Waste Management Units, Renewable Energy Investments etc.)

Applied use of LCA methodology and Cost- Benefit Analysis in the evaluation of technological and environmental investments, by using specialized software (UMBERTO, SIMARRO, ELECTRE etc).

The subject of the research is the development of methods and tools for assessing the level of Sustainability and Environment Society Governance (ESG) efficiency, which is developed by any kind of actors, as shown by the published reports. These methodologies include quantitative and qualitative evaluation methods. Multiple international standards are used for optimizing the design of such systems.

The projects that are undertaken through Public-Private Partnerships require special methods for their evaluation, which have been developed within the research activities of the Research Unit of Environmental Economics and Sustainability. These methods have their roots in classic tools of evaluating investment projects, but they also take into account, the distribution of risks and benefits to their respective stakeholders.

Green innovation refers to the development and application of new technologies, processes, and ideas that promote environmental sustainability and reduce the negative impact on the planet. Solutions are provided to face pressing environmental challenges like climate change, resource depletion, and pollution. The team expertises in green innovation models, as well as in open innovation models.

Water and waste management is the integrated approach of efficiently handling water resources and waste materials to promote sustainability, protect the environment, and ensure public health. It involves processes like water treatment, distribution, recycling, and waste disposal, with the goal of minimizing environmental impact and optimizing resource use.

We focus on research on circular economy models, which can guide the development of systems, where waste becomes a valuable input for other processes, promoting a more sustainable approach to waste management.

Research can explore ways to reduce waste generation, encourage recycling and composting, and find sustainable alternatives to single-use materials.

An important aspect is investigating waste-to-energy technologies, that can help convert waste materials into valuable resources while reducing the environmental impact of landfilling.

Water management studies are conducted to identify innovative approaches for water conservation, including efficient irrigation methods, water reuse, and rainwater harvesting, by utilizing smart-sensors and data analytics to optimize water distribution, detect leaks, and enhance waste collection and recycling processes.

Assessments can be performed to evaluate the environmental impacts of water and waste management practices, guiding decision-making towards sustainable solutions.

Forest management is the practice of planning, implementing, and monitoring activities to ensure the sustainable use and conservation of forest resources. It involves a range of activities, such as logging, reforestation, fire prevention, wildlife conservation, and ecosystem protection.

Forest management is crucial because forests play a vital role in maintaining the Earth's ecological balance. Our Chair has experience in the applications of innovative technological solutions for forest management and for creating optimized digital “Smart” Forests.