Search Results (251)

Drawing on an extensive literature review, this paper identifies key dimensions of social impact and land management in surface mining areas, including settlement relocation, long-term land occupation, limited economic diversification, demographic decline, and stakeholder distrust. These findings are then critically applied to the Ptolemais lignite basin, where six decades of large-scale surface mining reshaped land use patterns, displaced settlements, and structured a highly specialized regional economy. The research combines qualitative literature analysis with a case study approach, supported by socioeconomic and demographic indicators. Results show that (i) lignite exploitation generated employment, infrastructure, and regional income multipliers but also structural vulnerabilities and other impacts, (ii) land occupation and settlement relocation as an impact of mine expansion created long-term spatial constraints, and (iii) the energy transition phase intensified demographic, unemployment, and governance challenges. The paper argues that effective post-lignite restructuring is related to systematic reclamation strategies, integrated land-use planning, optimal exploitation of reclaimed land, diversification beyond energy production, and participatory governance frameworks. By linking international theoretical insights with empirical evidence from Western Macedonia, the study contributes to the debate on socially just and spatially balanced transitions in former coal and lignite regions. Full article

This study explores the potential of deliberative and polycentric governance models to address the complex challenges of the energy transition trilemma, balancing energy security, environmental sustainability, and energy equity. The article aims to develop an integrated deliberative–polycentric framework for managing the energy transition trilemma and to illustrate its implementation relevance through an applied example of heat pump deployment. The analysis primarily draws on evidence and examples from Europe and the United States, reflecting the regions most frequently discussed in the reviewed literature and policy materials. Drawing on an extensive literature review and desk-based analysis, the research adopts a non-empirical, theory-building approach grounded in interpretive policy analysis. The study synthesizes insights from scholarly works and policy documents to construct an integrated analytical framework. It argues that hybrid governance, merging the inclusivity and transparency of deliberative democracy with the flexibility and redundancy of polycentric systems—can enhance legitimacy, adaptability, and effectiveness in energy policymaking. Through thematic synthesis, key governance principles are identified, including multilevel coordination, stakeholder participation, transparency, and justice. The findings highlight that the synergy between deliberation and polycentricity offers a promising path toward more resilient, participatory, and just energy systems, while acknowledging the implementation challenges of such models. Full article

In Latin America and the Caribbean, the circular economy approach is embedded in productive structures characterized by a dependence on natural resources and the persistence of informal economies. The general objective of this article is to analyze the circular economy as an approach to production and consumption in Latin America and the Caribbean through a bibliometric and qualitative analysis of scientific literature. This study adopted a mixed, descriptive, and analytical research design. International and regional databases (Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, and Redalyc) were used to identify articles published between 2015 and 2025. The selection process followed the PRISMA protocol, resulting in a final qualitative analysis of 47 articles. The results reveal an accelerated and sustained growth in scientific production in the region, with a maximum increase of 250% in 2017, indicating a progressive consolidation of the field. The documentary corpus consists mainly of original articles (65%), with a clear preeminence of environmental sciences, engineering, and energy. Qualitatively, the literature shows a conceptual heterogeneity that adapts the circular economy to sustainable development and industrial ecology, uniquely incorporating grassroots recyclers and cooperatives into a “just transition.” However, there is evidence of an implementation gap: while large industries are making progress in eco-design and remanufacturing, adoption in SMEs and responsible consumption—especially in repair and reuse—remains at incipient levels due to structural and cultural limitations. Ultimately, the results suggest a growing concentration of circular economy research within selected Latin American institutions, indicating the emergence of regionally grounded research agendas that may differ in emphasis from dominant Global North framings. Full article

Hydrogen produced with net zero CO₂ (H₂NZ) has a significant role to play in a sustainable energy transition. Often overlooked are the different means of producing H₂NZ with different trade-offs that will impact communities in diverse ways. Science and engineering need to be part of the dialogue so the nuances of these technologies can be understood and just solutions generated. However, there is little direct engagement with science and engineering in the energy justice literature. To address this gap, a workshop of expert engineers and social scientists is used to analyse four developing H₂NZ technologies with justice issues. The results propose a way forward to integrate engineering with the energy justice discourse and, at the same time, encourage social science to reach out to engineering. The outcome and novelty are a suite of questions that integrate disciplinary perspectives and offer a means of encouraging context and technologically sensitive outcomes. Full article

Today, the transformation of energy systems is at the core of climate change mitigation. This transformation brings substantial implications for citizens. Coal-to-renewable energy transitions require new workforce skills while affecting regional economies and communities. Thus, a broader interdisciplinary approach integrating energy justice and participatory methods into energy transition research is required to clarify these sociotechnical transformations. To address this gap, this article conducts a systematic review of the just energy transition literature, focusing on studies where participation plays a methodological or conceptual role. Based on a systematic review of 42 articles, our findings show that participation enables stakeholders and policymakers to widen the energy policy discussion to account for plural values and procedural justice concerns of stakeholders involved in a complex socioecological system. This inquiry is timely, as energy practitioners, policymakers, and scholars increasingly seek to operationalize justice within energy transition frameworks. However, the review reveals a discrepancy between the widespread acknowledgment that just transition processes must be participatory and inclusive, and their limited realization in practice. These findings underscore the need for greater methodological experimentation with deliberative forms of participation, broader inclusion of stakeholder groups, and the development of context-sensitive guidelines to operationalize justice in energy transitions. Full article

The world’s growing need for energy, fueled by industrial expansion and a rising population, continues to be a challenge for the scientific community. The heavy reliance on fossil fuels that contribute to environmental degradation and public health concerns, is shifting toward sustainable alternatives, with hydrogen production via advanced catalysts as an energy source emerging as a promising solution. This transition addresses the challenges posed by harmful combustion emissions. In this study, we developed an innovative PANI@Cu-NA-MOF nanocomposite catalyst through a sol–gel synthesis approach that strategically integrates conducting polymers with metal–organic frameworks. The catalyst was characterized using different sets of techniques. Surface morphology and elemental composition were investigated using SEM-EDX, while structural analysis was carried out with FTIR that helped to identify the chemical bonds and functional groups, and UV-Vis spectroscopy provided information on its light absorption properties. In addition, TGA was used to evaluate thermal behavior, and XPS offered detailed surface chemical analysis. It was observed by morphology that PANI@Cu-NA-MOF is a noncapsular-like structure. It is thermally highly stable; a TGA study showed that up to 550 °C, almost 2.5% of weight was lost. The single peak in UV-Vis is the preparation of a successful composite. XPS and FTIR reveal the required peaks of functional groups and elements. The PANI@Cu-NA-MOF composite turned out to be quite effective for water electrolysis, requiring an overpotential of just 0.47 V to drive the reaction. When tested against the reversible hydrogen electrode, we observed onset potentials of 1.6 V/RHE for the oxygen evolution reaction and 0.2 V/RHE for the hydrogen evolution reaction. What makes this particularly interesting is that such performance significantly cuts down on the energy needed for electrolysis, which could make hydrogen production much more practical. Since hydrogen burns cleanly and offers a real alternative to fossil fuels, having an efficient catalyst like this brings us one step closer to sustainable energy. Full article

The transition from non-renewable to renewable energy sources has emerged as a pressing global issue, driven by concerns over climate change, resource depletion, and the need for sustainable development. This study compares Canada, an energy-rich nation, and Bangladesh, an energy-scarce country, to understand the structural, institutional, and market factors driving their respective renewable energy transitions. Using univariate time-series models (ARIMA, ETS, and Prophet) for energy demand forecasting and extensive literature-based policy evaluation, the paper examines trends in energy production, consumption, and trade from 1990 to 2024. Our analysis indicates that Canada’s vast reserves of both renewable and non-renewable energy sources, its diversified energy portfolio, and carbon-pricing framework support a stable decarbonization pathway, with renewables projected to account for more than 20% of total supply by 2030. However, regional disparities and political resistance from the established energy sector continue to delay transition outcomes. On the other hand, Bangladesh has limited renewable and non-renewable energy sources, with its primary energy resource being natural gas reserves. Consequently, its heavy reliance on imports (over 75% of primary energy) and institutional bottlenecks expose its energy system to commodity-price volatility, undermining energy security and slowing renewable investment. Despite these challenges, targeted solar programs and concessional financing have modestly increased the penetration of renewable energy. The analysis highlights that commodity market fluctuations, technological innovations (such as smart grids and energy storage), and market-based policy instruments critically shape each country’s transition trajectory. A coordinated policy linking market stabilization, innovation investment, and social inclusion is essential for achieving a just and secure low-carbon transition in both countries. Full article

The accelerating global energy transition has substantially increased demand for critical minerals such as copper, nickel, and lithium, positioning mining firms as key actors in the decarbonization of energy systems. However, the expansion of mineral extraction raises important sustainability challenges because mining activities remain highly energy- and carbon-intensive. This study investigates whether green innovation can simultaneously improve environmental performance and financial performance in critical mineral mining firms and examines the moderating role of institutional governance. Using a balanced panel of 35 publicly listed mining companies from Australia, Canada, Chile, Brazil, and Indonesia over the period 2015–2024, the analysis applies fixed-effects panel regressions complemented by dynamic specifications and multiple robustness tests, including alternative variable definitions and System Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) estimation. The results show that green innovation significantly reduces carbon intensity, indicating that environmental investments in renewable energy integration, electrification, and process efficiency contribute to improving emissions performance in mining operations. Green innovation also enhances firm financial performance, although the benefits emerge gradually over time, suggesting delayed financial gains followed by long-term efficiency improvements. Furthermore, governance quality strengthens the positive relationship between green innovation and firm performance, highlighting the importance of institutional environments in shaping the economic returns of sustainability strategies. By providing firm-level evidence across major mineral-producing economies, this study contributes to the literature on critical minerals, environmental finance, and the institutional dimensions of the just energy transition. Full article

As a primary energy consumer and carbon emitter, the construction industry (CI) faces a growing conflict between traditional energy-intensive growth models and global sustainable development goals. To promote the sustainable development of the CI, this study establishes a sequential analytical framework following the logic of “coupling evaluation–driving force identification–causal inference” across 30 developed economies (DE) from 2000 to 2022. Initially, the coupling coordination degree (CCD) between the economic and environmental systems of the CI was evaluated, utilizing the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) to characterize the transition from relative to absolute decoupling. The results show that the economy and the environment in the construction industry (CEECI) for DE is generally high (0.70–0.90). Subsequently, based on Green Innovation Growth (GIG) theory, Panel Data Analysis (PDA) is employed to identify the key drivers of the coupling between the economy and CEECI. The results show that for every 1% increase in per capita GDP, CEECI increases by approximately 0.035; for every 1% increase in science and technology investment (ST Inv), CEECI increases by 0.045; and for every 1 unit increase in building energy use (BEU), CEECI decreases by 0.008. Furthermore, Granger causality analysis (GCA) was used to examine the bidirectional predictive relationship. Furthermore, there is a two-way correlation between GDP and CEECI, and a one-way correlation between CEECI and ST Inv. Overall, our results show that further decoupling requires innovation, not just economic growth; therefore, the CI should optimize its industrial structure, prioritize technological innovation, strengthen lifecycle energy management, and promote coordinated global CI improvement. Full article

Understanding why national decarbonization pathways diverge is essential for designing effective climate and energy policy. Using harmonized data for 1970–2022 from Our World in Data and the Maddison Project Database, this study examines long-run emission trends and electricity-mix transitions in four countries representing distinct energy regimes: Japan, Australia, India, and South Africa. We combine per-capita and total CO₂ trajectories with a Kaya–LMDI decomposition aligned with updated methodological guidelines. Results reveal persistent and deepening transition divergence. Japan experienced partial decoupling before a nuclear vulnerability shock in 2011 reversed progress and temporarily increased fossil dependence. Australia shows a recent erosion of long-standing coal lock-in, driven by policy reform and falling renewable costs. India and South Africa remain highly coal-dependent, with population and income growth overwhelming improvements in energy intensity. Across countries, efficiency gains contributed to emission mitigation, but only structural changes in fuel mix produced sustained reductions in carbon intensity. Taken together, these findings suggest that divergent institutional and infrastructural lock-in conditions—rather than income levels alone—shape the pace, direction, and resilience of decarbonization. The study also speaks to recent international policy debates emphasized by the IPCC and the IEA, as well as to justice-oriented discussions in the energy transition literature. The results highlight major implications for climate policy, energy-system resilience, and just transition strategies. Full article

Hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) combining photovoltaic, wind, fuel cell, and energy storage technologies are becoming established as viable options for reliable, environmentally friendly distributed electricity generation. In this review, we examine the key architectures, monitoring and forecast approaches, and control systems that improve the efficiency of HRES and facilitate the just-energy transition to low-carbon power generation systems. The main optimization and decision-aware approaches, particularly the evolutionary generation algorithms and machine learning-based prediction models, are addressed with a focus on improving energy allocation, cost minimization, and increased use of clean renewable energy sources. Technical, economic, and environmental performance indicators, such as the levelized cost of energy (LCOE), net present cost (NPC), renewable fraction (RF), and CO₂ emissions reduction, have been compared to demonstrate the feasibility of various system scenarios. This paper evaluates and summarizes recent case studies from around the world and presents the best practices and the challenges they encounter, including resource availability, governance, and economic drivers. The balance of the paper demonstrates that smart forecasting with advanced energy management approaches is crucial for developing sustainable and resilient hybrid distributed power systems for the future. Full article

In the context of global energy system transformation and the pursuit of regional sustainability, China’s Air Pollution Control and Prevention Action Plan (APPA) targets both pollution reduction and carbon mitigation, serving as a critical policy instrument for coordinating the energy-economy-environment nexus in the “2+26” cities. This study employs a quasi-natural experiment with a difference-in-difference (DID) method to assess the synergistic impact of this energy-related policy on these cities. Results show that APPA significantly reduces PM2.5 and carbon emissions by 5.56% and 9.89%, respectively, demonstrating a successful alignment of short-term environmental targets with long-term decarbonization goals. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that large cities with higher institutional capacity are more effective in reducing both pollutants, while resource-based cities achieve more PM2.5 reduction, and non-resource-based cities excel in low-carbon energy transition. Mechanism analysis indicates that APPA promotes these outcomes by optimizing the energy-intensive industrial structure and fostering green technological innovation. This study highlights the effectiveness of integrated governance frameworks in enhancing air quality and reducing carbon emissions, providing crucial insights for redesigning sustainable energy policies and managing the socio-economic disruptions of just transitions in rapidly developing regions. Full article

Globally, the transport sector accounts for almost a quarter of CO₂ emissions from fuel combustion and generates large amounts of pollutants, placing significant pressure on the environment and human health. By 2050, the European Green Deal requires a 90% reduction in transport-related emissions, making sustainability necessary across all modes of transport. Based on the relevant literature, this study examines the role and potential of railways in decarbonising the EU transport sector. Railway is highly efficient, consuming just 1.9% of transport sector energy while handling 16.9% of freight and 5.1% of passenger transport in the EU, yet is responsible for only 0.4% of total emissions. According to studies, greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced by improving energy efficiency, using low-carbon or renewable energy, and expanding train electrification. The greatest potential for decarbonisation lies in a modal shift to rail. However, this requires significant infrastructure investment: raising line speeds to at least 160 km/h, expanding networks, building terminals, digitalisation, and alignment with TEN-T standards. Although the EU supports the modal shift with funding programmes, the transition is not progressing as expected—the share of road freight transport increased from 74% in 2013 to 78% in 2023. Stronger investment is needed in Member States’ national policies for the development and modernisation of railways. The authors developed a Path Evaluation Matrix (PEM), a quantitative decision framework integrating the fields of energy, transport, politics, and economics. The PEM results indicate that BEMU (battery electric multiple units) is optimal for 68% of secondary lines in south-eastern Europe. Full article

This study examines the potential of using agricultural residues for energy production in the Córdoba department of Colombia in response to the need to diversify the energy matrix and reduce inequality in energy access. The aim was to estimate and visually represent the energy potential of nine key crop residues using agricultural data from 2015 to 2018, physical-energy characterisation, and UPME and SERI models integrated into a geographic information system (GIS). A total annual generation of 2.6 million tonnes of residual biomass was identified, with Tierralta, Lorica and Montería emerging as the main generators. Although maize did not produce the largest volume of residue, it had the highest theoretical energy potential (2621 GWh/year) due to its low moisture content and high calorific value. The total theoretical energy potential of the available biomass was estimated at 4550 GWh/year, which could cover over twice the department’s electricity demand and avoid around 745 thousand tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year. This study demonstrates that the strategic use of this biomass can promote a just and sustainable energy transition and proposes a replicable model combining technical and territorial analysis to inform public policy and encourage decentralised bioenergy projects. Full article

The transformation of post-mining landscapes represents a critical challenge for structurally affected coal regions undergoing decarbonisation. This study examines land-use transformation in a former brown coal mining area in the north-west of the Czech Republic, focusing on the interplay between social legitimacy, territorial governance, and development trajectories. The research aims to assess (i) the level of public awareness of the transformation process, (ii) the alignment between residents’ and key local actors’ preferences regarding future land-use trajectories, and (iii) the acceptance of renewable energy as part of the area’s future development. The empirical analysis combines a CAWI survey of residents with structured CATI interviews conducted with local stakeholders. The findings reveal strong support for environmental and landscape restoration, alongside conditionally positive but more ambivalent attitudes towards renewable energy development. While ecological renewal is widely perceived as desirable, the long-term sustainability of the transformation process depends on social legitimacy, institutional trust, and the degree of alignment between strategic planning and local preferences. The results highlight that successful post-mining land-use transformation requires not only environmental and economic planning but also systematic engagement with social acceptance and territorially embedded governance. Full article