Search Results (1,812)

The social acceptance of Renewable Energy Sources (RESs) is a decisive factor in the successful implementation of clean energy projects. This study explores the attitudes, demographic profiles, and common misconceptions of citizens in the Region of Epirus, Greece, toward photovoltaic and wind energy installations. Special attention is given to the role of education, age, and access to information—as well as spatial factors such as visual exposure—in shaping public perceptions and influencing acceptance of RES deployment. A structured questionnaire was administered to 320 participants across urban and rural areas, with subdivision between regions with and without visual exposure to RES infrastructure. Findings indicate that urban residents exhibit greater acceptance of RES, while rural inhabitants—especially those in proximity to installations—express skepticism, often grounded in esthetic concerns or perceived procedural injustice. Misinformation and lack of knowledge dominate in areas without visual contact. Statistical analysis confirms that younger and more educated participants are more supportive and environmentally aware. The study highlights the importance of targeted educational interventions, transparent consultation, and spatially sensitive communication strategies in fostering constructive engagement with renewable energy projects. The case of Epirus underscores the need for inclusive, place-based policies to bridge the social acceptance gap and support the national energy transition. Full article

Amidst global climate change, carbon emissions across the edible vegetable oil supply chain are critical for sustainable development. This paper systematically reviews the existing literature, employing life cycle assessment (LCA) to analyze key factors influencing carbon footprints at stages including cultivation, processing, and transportation. It reveals the differential impacts of fertilizer application, energy structures, and regional policies. Unlike previous reviews that focus on single crops or regions, this study uniquely integrates global data across major edible oils, identifying three critical gaps: methodological inconsistency (60% of studies deviate from the requirements and guidelines for LCA); data imbalance (80% concentrated on soybean/rapeseed); weak policy-technical linkage. Key findings: fertilizer emissions dominate cultivation (40–60% of total footprint), while renewable energy substitution in processing reduces emissions by 35%. Future efforts should prioritize multidisciplinary integration, enhanced data infrastructure, and policy scenario analysis to provide scientific insights for the low-carbon transformation of the global edible oil industry. Full article

For a long time, the explanation of the various determinants of oil price fluctuations and their impact on economic activity has been based on the supply and demand mechanism. However, with various volatile changes in the international situation in recent years, such as threats to public health and an increase in regional conflicts, special attention has been paid to the geopolitical context as an additional driver of oil price fluctuations. This study examines the relationship between oil price changes and GDP growth and other macroeconomic variables from the perspective of the vulnerability of oil-importing and oil-exporting countries to unexpected oil price shocks, driven by tense geopolitical events, in three European countries (Norway, Germany, and Poland). We apply the Structural Vector Autoregressive (SVAR) model and orthogonalized impulse response functions, based on quarterly data, in regard to two samples: the first spans 1995Q1–2019Q4 (pre-2020 sample), with relatively gradual changes in oil prices, and the second spans 1995Q1–2024Q2 (whole sample), with sudden fluctuations in oil prices due to geopolitical developments. A key finding of this research is that vulnerability to unpredictable oil price shocks related to geopolitical tensions is higher than in regard to expected gradual changes in oil prices, both in oil-importing and oil-exporting countries. Different causality patterns and stronger responses in regard to GDP growth during the period, including in regard to tense geopolitical events in comparison to the pre-2020 sample, lead to the belief that economies are not more resilient to oil price shocks as has been suggested by some studies, which referred to periods that were not driven by geopolitical events. Our research also suggests that countries implementing policies to reduce oil dependency and promote investment in alternative energy sources are better equipped to mitigate the adverse effects of oil price shocks. Full article

In recent years, growing concerns over environmental degradation and deepening awareness of the necessity of sustainable development have propelled green and low-carbon energy transition into a focal issue for both academia and policymakers. By decomposing energy transition into the transformation of energy structure and the upgrading of energy efficiency, this study investigates the impact and mechanisms of green finance on energy transition across 30 provinces (municipalities and autonomous regions) in China, with the exception of Tibet. In addition, the impact of climate change is incorporated into the analytical framework. Empirical results demonstrate that green finance development significantly accelerates energy transition, a conclusion robust to rigorous validation. Analysis of the mechanism shows that green finance promotes energy transition through the facilitation of technological innovation and the upgrade of industrial structures. Moreover, empirical evidence reveals that climate change undermines the promotional influence of sustainable finance on energy system transformation. The magnitude of this suppression varies nonlinearly across provincial jurisdictions with differing energy transition progress. Regional heterogeneity analyses further uncover marked discrepancies in climate–finance interactions, demonstrating amplified effects in coastal economic hubs, underdeveloped western provinces, and regions with mature eco-financial markets. According to these findings, actionable policy suggestions are put forward to strengthen green finance and accelerate energy transition. Full article

This study examines the progress, challenges, and successes in implementing Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG12), focusing on responsible consumption and production, using Qatar as a case study. The State has integrated Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) into national policies, established coordination mechanisms, and implemented action plans aligned with SDG12 targets. Achievements include renewable energy adoption, waste management reforms, and sustainable public procurement, though challenges persist in rationalizing fossil fuel subsidies, addressing data gaps, and enhancing corporate sustainability reporting. Efforts to reduce food loss and waste through redistribution programs highlight the country’s resilience, despite logistical obstacles. The nation has also advanced hazardous waste management, environmental awareness, and sustainable tourism policies, though gaps in data systems and policy coherence remain. Qatar’s approach provides a valuable local-to-global example of balancing resource-dependent economies with sustainability goals. Its strategies and lessons offer potential adaptability for other nations, especially those facing similar challenges in achieving SDG12. By strengthening data systems, enhancing policy integration, and fostering regional and international cooperation, Qatar’s efforts underscore the importance of aligning economic growth with environmental stewardship, serving as a blueprint for global sustainability initiatives. Full article

An important task for the European Union is to transpose agreements and international standards in regulation and directives that are binding on member states. The resultant European action plans and directives identify priority areas in the building and energy sectors where circular economy principles can be applied. Italy records a general circular materials rate of 20.8%, surpassing the mean European value. But low recycling rates are still registered in the construction sector. This paper aims to assess the position of Italy with respect to the European regulatory framework on circularity in the energy transition of buildings. Firstly, the government’s initiatives and technical standards are introduced and commented upon. Secondly, the study illustrates the current Italian platforms, networks, and public and private initiatives highlighting opportunities and obstacles that the energy sector has to overcome in the area of circularity. It emerges that Italian policies still use voluntary tools that are not sufficiently in line with an effective circular economy model. Moreover, data collection plays a crucial role in accelerating the implementation of future actions. Italy should consider the foundation of a National Observatory for the Circular Economy to elaborate European directives, harmonize regional policies, and promote the implementation of effective practices. Full article

The mining industry (MI) in mineral-rich regions is pivotal for economic growth but is challenged by significant pollution and emissions. This study examines Guangxi, a representative region in China, in light of the country’s “Dual Carbon” goals. We quantified carbon emissions from the MI from 2005 to 2021, employing the generalized Divisia index method (GDIM) to analyze the factors driving these emissions. Additionally, a system dynamics (SD) model was developed, integrating economic, demographic, energy, environmental, and policy variables to assess decarbonization strategies and the potential for carbon decoupling. The key findings include the following: (1) Carbon accounting analysis reveals a rising emission trend in Guangxi’s MI, predominantly driven by electricity consumption, with the non-ferrous metal mining sector contributing the largest share of total emissions. (2) The primary drivers of carbon emissions were identified as economic scale, population intensity, and energy intensity, with periodic fluctuations in sector-specific drivers necessitating coordinated policy adjustments. (3) Scenario analysis showed that the Emission Reduction Scenario (ERS) is the only approach that achieves a carbon peak before 2030, indicating that it is the most effective decarbonization pathway. (4) Between 2022 and 2035, carbon decoupling from total output value is projected to improve under both the Energy-Saving Scenario (ESS) and ERS, achieving strong decoupling, while the resource extraction shows limited decoupling effects often displaying an expansionary connection. This study aims to enhance the understanding and promote the advancement of green and low-carbon development within the MI in mineral-rich regions. Full article

The green transformation of traditional energy structures and the development of the new energy industry are crucial drivers of sustainable development in the country. The ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (2016–2025; APAEC [2016–2025]), established in 2016, has significantly promoted the growth of the new energy sector and enhanced energy structures across Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This initiative has also inspired these countries to develop corresponding industrial policies aimed at supporting the new energy vehicle (NEV) industry, resulting in significant growth in this sector within the ASEAN region. This paper analyzes the factors influencing the development of the NEV industry in the context of ASEAN’s new energy policies, drawing empirical insights from data collected across six ASEAN countries from 2013 to 2024. Following the implementation of the APAEC (2016–2025), it was observed that ASEAN countries reached a consensus on energy development and cooperation, collaboratively advancing the NEV industry through regional policies. Furthermore, factors such as national governance, financial development, education levels, and the size of the automotive market positively contribute to the growth of the NEV industry in ASEAN. Conversely, high energy consumption can hinder its progress. Additionally, further research indicates that the APAEC (2016–2025) has exerted a more pronounced impact on countries with robust automotive industry foundations or those prioritizing relevant policies. The findings of this paper offer valuable insights for ASEAN countries in the formulating policies for the NEV industry, optimizing energy structures, and achieving low-carbon energy transition and sustainable development. Full article

The sustainable development of Chinese cities is of long-term significance. Multiple environmental regulatory instruments aim to promote the parallel advancement of environmental conservation and economic growth. This study examines three batches of low-carbon city pilot (LCCP) programs, employing eco-efficiency as the outcome variable. Using conventional difference-in-differences (DID) models, time-varying DID models, and period-by-period propensity score matching DID (PSM-DID) models with city and time fixed effects, we investigate the comprehensive impact of pilot policies on both economic and environmental performance. Eco-efficiency, measured through the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model, exhibits a strong correlation with energy consumption patterns, as carbon emissions and air pollutants predominantly originate from non-clean energy utilization. The analysis reveals that LCCP policies significantly enhance eco-efficiency. These findings demonstrate robustness across placebo tests, endogeneity treatments, and alternative outcome variable specifications. The first and third LCCP batches significantly improve eco-efficiency, whereas the second batch demonstrates no statistically significant effect. Significant impacts emerge in regions where cities hold pilot status while provinces do not; conversely, regions where both cities and provinces participate in pilot programs show no significant effects. Finally, from an energy consumption perspective, policy recommendations are proposed to further enhance eco-efficiency through regulatory instruments. Full article

Evaluating the renewable energy potential, such as that of solar photovoltaics (PV), is important for developing renewable energy policies. This study investigated rooftop solar PV potential in Thailand based on open-source geographic information system (GIS) building footprints, solar PV power output, and the most recent land use data (2022). GIS-based overlay analysis, buffering, fishnet modeling, and spatial join operations were applied to assess rooftop availability across various building types, taking into account PV module installation parameters and optimal panel orientation. Economic feasibility and sensitivity analyses were conducted using standard economic metrics, including net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), payback period, and benefit–cost ratio (BCR). The findings showed a total rooftop solar PV power generation potential of 50.32 TWh/year, equivalent to 25.5% of Thailand’s total electricity demand in 2022. The Central region contributed the highest potential (19.59 TWh/year, 38.94%), followed by the Northeastern (10.49 TWh/year, 20.84%), Eastern (8.16 TWh/year, 16.22%), Northern (8.09 TWh/year, 16.09%), and Southern regions (3.99 TWh/year, 7.92%). Both commercial and industrial sectors reflect the financial viability of rooftop PV installations and significantly contribute to the overall energy output. These results demonstrate the importance of incorporating rooftop solar PV in renewable energy policy development in regions with similar data infrastructure, particularly the availability of detailed and standardized land use data for building type classification. Full article

This study employs k-means clustering to group 30 Chinese provinces into four CO₂ emission patterns, characterized by increasing emission levels and distinct energy consumption structures, and captures their dynamic evolution from 2000 to 2021 using a discrete endogenous Markov chain approach. While Shanghai, Jiangxi, and Hebei retained their original classifications, provinces such as Beijing, Fujian, Tianjin, and Anhui transitioned from higher to lower emission patterns, indicating notable reversals in emission trajectories. To identify the determinants of these transitions, GDP growth rate, population growth rate, and energy investment are incorporated as time varying covariates. The empirical findings demonstrate that GDP growth substantially increases interpattern mobility, thereby weakening state persistence, whereas population growth and energy investment tend to reinforce emission pattern stability. These results imply that policy responses must be tailored to regional dynamics. In rapidly growing regions, fiscal incentives and technological upgrading may facilitate downward transitions in emission states, whereas in provinces where emissions remain persistent due to demographic or investment related rigidity, structural adjustments and long term mitigation frameworks are essential. The study underscores the importance of integrating economic, demographic, and investment characteristics into carbon reduction strategies through a region specific and data informed approach. Full article

Agricultural production in southern Angola faces challenges due to unsustainable practices, including inefficient use of water, fertilizers, and machinery, resulting in low yields and environmental degradation. Therefore, clear and measurable indicators are needed to guide farmers toward more sustainable practices. The scientific literature insufficiently addresses this issue, leaving a significant gap in the evaluation of key performance indicators (KPIs) that can guide good agricultural practices (GAPs) adapted to the context of southern Angola, with the goal of promoting a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector. So, the objective of this study is to identify and assess KPIs capable of supporting the selection of GAPs suitable for maize, potato, and tomato cultivation in the context of southern Angolan agriculture. A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted, screening 2720 articles and selecting 14 studies that met defined inclusion criteria. Five KPIs were identified as the most relevant: gross margin, net profit, water use efficiency, nitrogen use efficiency, and machine energy. These indicators were analyzed and standardized to evaluate their contribution to sustainability across different GAPs. Results show that organic fertilizers are the most sustainable option for maize, drip irrigation for potatoes, and crop rotation for tomatoes in southern Angola because of their efficiency in low-resource environments. A clear, simple, and effective representation of the KPIs was developed to be useful in communicating to farmers and policy makers on the selection of the best GAPs in the cultivation of different crops. The study proposes a validated KPI-based methodology for assessing sustainable agricultural practices in developing regions such as southern Angola, aiming to lead to greater self-sufficiency and economic stability in this sector. Full article

Achieving synergies between government-led and market-based policy instruments is critical to advancing Energy–Environmental Productivity and Sustainable Urban Development. This study investigates the effects of China’s dual-pilot energy policies (New Energy Demonstration Cities (NEDCs) and Energy Consumption Permit Trading (ECPT)) on urban environmental productivity (UEP) across 279 prefecture-level cities from 2006 to 2023. Utilizing a Non-Radial Directional Distance Function (NDDF) approach, combined with Difference-in-Differences (DID) estimation and spatial econometric models, the analysis reveals that these synergistic policies significantly enhance both comprehensive and net measures of UEP. Mechanism analysis highlights the roles of industrial restructuring, technological innovation, and energy transition in driving these improvements, while heterogeneity analysis indicates varying effects across different city types. Spatial spillover analysis further demonstrates that policy impacts extend beyond targeted cities, contributing to broader regional gains in UEP. These findings offer important insights for the design of integrated energy and environmental policies and support progress toward key Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 7, SDG 11, and SDG 12). Full article

The intersection of green finance and artificial intelligence (AI) represents a rapidly emerging and high-impact research domain with the potential to reshape sustainable economic systems. This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric and network analysis aimed at mapping the scientific landscape, identifying research hotspots, and highlighting methodological trends at this nexus. A dataset of 268 peer-reviewed publications (2014–June 2025) was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection, filtered by the Business Economics category. Analytical techniques employed include Bibliometrix in R, VOSviewer, and science mapping tools such as thematic mapping, trend topic analysis, co-citation networks, and co-occurrence clustering. Results indicate an annual growth rate of 53.31%, with China leading in both productivity and impact, followed by Vietnam and the United Kingdom. The most prolific affiliations and authors, primarily based in China, underscore a concentrated regional research output. The most relevant journals include Energy Economics and Finance Research Letters. Network visualizations identified 17 clusters, with focused analysis on the top three: (1) Emission, Health, and Environmental Risk, (2) Institutional and Technological Infrastructure, and (3) Green Innovation and Sustainable Urban Development. The methodological landscape is equally diverse, with top techniques including blockchain technology, large language models, convolutional neural networks, sentiment analysis, and structural equation modeling, demonstrating a blend of traditional econometrics and advanced AI. This study not only uncovers intellectual structures and thematic evolution but also identifies underdeveloped areas and proposes future research directions. These include dynamic topic modeling, regional case studies, and ethical frameworks for AI in sustainable finance. The findings provide a strategic foundation for advancing interdisciplinary collaboration and policy innovation in green AI–finance ecosystems. Full article

As a key enabling technology for energy transition, the smart grid is propelling the global power system to evolve toward greater efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. Based on the three-dimensional analysis framework of “technology–policy–application”, this study systematically sorts out the technical architecture, regional development mode, and typical application scenarios of the smart grid, revealing the multi-dimensional challenges that it faces. By using the methods of literature review, cross-national case comparison, and technology–policy collaborative analysis, the differentiated paths of China, the United States, and Europe in the development of smart grids are compared, aiming to promote the integration and development of smart grid technologies. From a technical perspective, this paper proposes a collaborative framework comprising the perception layer, network layer, and decision-making layer. Additionally, it analyzes the integration pathways of critical technologies, including sensors, communication protocols, and artificial intelligence. At the policy level, by comparing the differentiated characteristics in policy orientation and market mechanisms among China, the United States, and Europe, the complementarity between government-led and market-driven approaches is pointed out. At the application level, this study validates the practical value of smart grids in optimizing energy management, enhancing power supply reliability, and promoting renewable energy consumption through case analyses in urban smart energy systems, rural electrification, and industrial sectors. Further research indicates that insufficient technical standardization, data security risks, and the lack of policy coordination are the core bottlenecks restricting the large-scale development of smart grids. This paper proposes that a new type of intelligent and resilient power system needs to be constructed through technological innovation, policy coordination, and international cooperation, providing theoretical references and practical paths for energy transition. Full article