Slovenia and its new environmental mechanisms for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate different greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation policy instruments implemented in Slovenia, especially their impact on industrial competitiveness.Design/methodology/approachAnalysis of existing mitigation policies.FindingsThe introduction of new policy instruments in Slovenia has not been very effective in curbing GHG emissions, but it certainly brought attention to the problem. As there is still a lot of space for improvements, additional effort should be made to improve existing instruments or to propose additional mitigation measures.Practical implicationsThe paper evaluates existing policy instruments, which are still in their evolutional phases. The significance of this paper is to help to intensify indirect influence on GHG emissions reduction, especially on the national level, as proper introduction and understanding of the problem leads to more comprehensive and credible solutions regarding GHG emission reduction strategies. In addition, some new steps and/or measures are also indicated with this paper, especially concerning future evolution of EU emission trading scheme and national CO2 tax regulation.Originality/valueThe paper is a new source of information about implementation of GHG mitigation policy measures in Slovenia. Analysis of adaptation and mitigation activities as well as integration of all aspects of climate change issues into strategies for sustainable development is of significant importance for the relevant decision makers – to monitor the impact of their own policies for domestic assessment purposes, that is to choose a policy strategy, to understand the implications of existing and alternative policy strategies, and to understand the joint interactions of multiple, individual policy strategies.