Decarbonization of the economy: problem analysis with allowance for regional specifics and the need to develop the educational system

Abstract

Aim. The presented study aims to analyze problems associated with the decarbonization of the economy in relation to regional specifics and the development of the educational system in the Russian Federation.Tasks. The authors investigate the concept of "decarbonization of the economy"; provide arguments in favor of decarbonization based on the systems approach, making allowance for the leading role of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation and the need to involve higher educational institutions and scientific institutions in solving the problem.Methods. This study uses general scientific methods of cognition, including analysis and synthesis, and the systems approach to identify the main problems of decarbonization, including in terms of the country's environmental and economic security.Results. Low-carbon economy, carbon taxes, and sequestration industry are trends that are likely to determine human development across the world in the next 50 years. Preservation of the environment should be a prerequisite for the development of civilization, but it should not be based on superficial solutions that are insufficiently substantiated scientifically. Solving the problems of decarbonization requires a targeted impact on the environment to reduce the load on it effectively and consistently. In this regard, studies conducted in Russia under the auspices of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation are particularly relevant. The expert center of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation on carbon polygons is acting as a mediator between the activities of educational and scientific institutions. This center is also developing a strategy for monetizing the sequestration potential of carbon polygons in the regions. They provide territories with a unique ecosystem for the implementation of control measures for climate-active gases through universities and scientific organizations. The first elements of the national greenhouse gas accounting system have emerged. This, in turn, will not only increase the validity of the decarbonization policy, but will also allow regions to achieve social effects.Conclusion. Nowadays, as decarbonization projects are being implemented, it is necessary to develop the existing and open new carbon polygons operated by higher educational and scientific institutions, with the strengthening of the role of scientific institutions. This will make it possible to systematically decarbonize the economy, making allowance for the specifics and peculiarities of the regions, in cooperation with regional authorities and in broad public discussion.