Energies, Vol. 18, Pages 6102: Taxonomic Evaluation of the Sustainable Energy and Environmental Development in European Union Member States

Energies, Vol. 18, Pages 6102: Taxonomic Evaluation of the Sustainable Energy and Environmental Development in European Union Member States

Energies doi: 10.3390/en18236102

Authors:
Anetta Barska
Joanna Wyrwa
Janina Jędrzejczak-Gas
Krzysztof Kononowicz

The present paper focuses on the transformation of energy and its connection with one of the areas of sustainable development, namely environmental sustainability. Energy and environmental sustainability are complex and multidimensional processes. Transitioning to more sustainable energy sources, such as renewable energy, has a significant impact on reducing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, improving energy efficiency, a key element of the energy transition, contributes to reducing overall energy demand and is therefore consistent with environmental sustainability goals. A fundamental goal of environmental sustainability is to minimise the carbon footprint. In this way, the fields of energy transition and environmental sustainability mutually reinforce each other. The objective of the present study is to evaluate territorial differentiation and to analyse the interdependence of energy and environmental sustainability in the European Union (EU). The study period covers the years from 2015 to 2022. The TOPSIS method, a multidimensional comparative analysis method, was used in the research procedure. Moreover, the paper undertakes an examination of the existence of a statistically significant relationship between energy and environmental sustainability. The study demonstrates that there is considerable territorial differentiation in both energy and environmental sustainability in the EU. The present study makes a contribution to the growth of existing knowledge in the field by highlighting the importance of energy and environmental sustainability. The results of this study could prove of assistance to policymakers, governments, and legislators.