Abstract
In face of mounting evidence for complex environmental threats to human development, countries have been seeking new paths to progress less damaging to the planet. The objective of this paper is to explore innovative ways for monitoring efficiency of sustainable development policy, not only in the Caucasus region, but beyond. We propose that this goal can beachieved through two steps: measuring energy use as a contributing element to gross domestic production (GDP) and the associated progression in equitable distribution of national wealth. The case is presented of Azerbaijan, a vibrant, resource-rich Caucasian country which has demonstrated spectacular GDP growth only a few years into independence from the former Soviet Union. Using a single indicator, energy consumption for GDP production, in association with the classic Gini coefficient of economic equity, the authors argue empirically for renewed and innovative measurement of progress towards achievement of crucial United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Highlights
The 70th jubilee session of the UN General Assembly (2015) took place in September in New York
Two methods are used based on international statistics: (1) gross domestic product (GDP) produced per unit of energy consumed and (2) energy spent for the production the gross domestic production (GDP) value of US $ 1,000 taking into account purchasing power parity (PPP)
The GDP per capita growth in Azerbaijan has been accompanied by extraordinary energy efficiency in national production processes in this country
Summary
The 70th jubilee session of the UN General Assembly (2015) took place in September in New York. The Assembly discussed major challenges facing humanity in the 21st century, and identified immediate and longer term measures to overcome them. It was acknowledged that a new approach to development -intended to ensure the well-being of present generations and at the same time create the conditions for progress for future generations - is a key priority for the 21st century, and the whole of the third millennium. The UN World Summit (2015), which took place in New York at the same time as the UN General Assembly session, simultaneously endorsed “sustainable development” as a key priority for our planet, and entered history as the Sustainable Development Summit.
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