TY - THES A1 - Munoz Hurtado, Simon T1 - A study on the potential of ontology-based approaches in solar thermal applications N2 - Different to other fields of science where ontologies are widely researched and popular, in the solar thermal energy this is not the case. Therefore, the aim of this project is to explore and present the benefits, potentials, disadvantages and limitations of ontologies in the solar thermal energy field and how the industry may profit from this kind of new technologies. This thesis considers the different information available on topics such as ontologies, solar thermal energy, ontology development and solar thermal energy ontologies. The basics on ontologies and solar thermal energy were evaluated, the different kinds of solar thermal systems, ontology methodologies, and ontologies in the solar energy sector. More than 60 literature sources were reviewed in order to obtain a broad perspective of how this technology is situated in different (research) fields. From the findings obtained, it was evident that ontologies and ontology-based technologies can provide huge benefit to the solar thermal field and all its stakeholders in terms of communication, integration of information and knowledge representation. The fact that not much research of this technology can be found in the solar thermal energy field can be seen as a potential too, making all early contributions of great impact. To our eyes, more support, research and development of ontologies should be given in our sector in order to gain traction and thus popularize the use of this kind of technologies and this way benefit from all the potentials that this technology offers. Y1 - 2022 UR - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:bvb:573-33409 CY - Ingolstadt ER - TY - THES A1 - Munoz Hurtado, Simon T1 - Evaluating innovations in municipal solid waste management BT - a case study of their feasibility and potential impact in Colombia N2 - In recent years, cities have experienced unprecedented physical and population growth. Alongside this, our societies have become major consumers of products. As a result, a significant problem arises from the inadequate disposal of the waste generated by this large consumption and the lack of infrastructure and processes needed for proper waste management, especially in developing countries. This thesis aims to address the waste management system's challenges in Colombia, a representative developing country. The research approach involves a literary analysis of various sources (journals, books, etc.) and interviews with stakeholders such as waste management company managers, waste pickers, and Bogota councilor’s environmental advisor. Furthermore, by conducting a PESTEL analysis of Colombia, the study identifies the primary issues plaguing the waste management system. Moreover, utilizing the scorecard methodology, the research puts forth a comprehensive framework for evaluating innovations within the industry. This framework assesses potential solutions based on their capacity to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, environmental impact, social impact, adaptability, and affordability. The study reveals significant challenges faced by the country, including the limited implementation of waste disposal technology, heavy reliance on sanitary landfills, a lack of citizen awareness, and low recycling rates, as well as inadequate service provision in rural and remote regions. During the evaluation, ten innovations with proven benefits in other contexts are assessed. Notably, an application that connects waste pickers with waste generation and a policy of extended producer responsibility demonstrate the most potential. Furthermore, the study considers the unique characteristics and barriers in Colombia that hinder innovation implementation, such as high corruption rates, a large informal sector, and a lack of expertise. In conclusion, while Colombia exhibits clear environmental policies and better waste collection and recycling rates compared to neighboring countries, significant challenges remain, including high waste generation and low recycling rates. Achieving the set objectives and improving the waste management system's quality requires collaboration among all stakeholders, including policymakers and researchers, to promote sustainable innovations and enhance waste management practices for the betterment of people's lives. Y1 - 2023 UR - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:bvb:573-38240 CY - Ingolstadt ER -