Sustainable Europe Research Articles

Climate Change, Air Pollution, African Dust Impacts on Public Health and Sustainability in Europe

Abstract Climate change poses a significant threat to environmental sustainability and public health, leading to extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and biodiversity loss. Research on air pollution from African dust adversely associated with climate change highlights its significant role in trapping heat in the atmosphere and causing heat-related illnesses, cardiovascular disorders, and respiratory ailments. Smog, dust, acid rain, and ozone depletion also negatively impact ecosystems. The methods of the study also include the dynamics of climate change-induced air pollution. The implications for public health and environmental sustainability through GWR modeling and MODIS-NDVI analysis of controlling air pollution are crucial for reducing the climate crisis, safeguarding public health, and maintaining ecosystem sustainability. Results from particulate matter (PM 2.5-10), which consists of tiny particles with varying diameters, can enter the respiratory system through inhalation. This can lead to a diameter of less than 10 μm (PM 2.5-10). According to the relevant legislation, the limit value refers to the daily average value and must not exceed 50 μg/m3. While ozone in the stratosphere serves a protective function against ultraviolet radiation, excessive levels at ground level can be harmful and have been recorded in atmospheric samples ranging from 146.6 μg/m3 up to 702.3 μg/m3. impacting the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Policy leaders, businesses, and individuals need to be proactive in reducing air pollution, adopting clean energy technology, and implementing stricter pollution rules. Stricter pollution rules, environmentally friendly transportation choices, and the adoption of clean energy technology. The sustainability of the ecosystem and public health are significantly impacted by climate change linked to air pollution. To solve these global problems and move toward a healthier, cleaner future for future generations, we must act now on climate justice. Key messages • Examine the impact of African dust air pollution on public health and its significant impacts from climate change, provide solutions to mitigate its effects on environmental sustainability in Europe. • Public health workers, Policymakers and stakeholders must prioritize reducing emissions and enforcing strict air quality laws to mitigate the negative impact of African dust on European populations.

Building bridges in Climate Pact activities and Climate Action - example from Serbia

Abstract The European Climate Pact is a movement of citizens united around a common cause, each taking steps in their own worlds to build a more sustainable Europe. Launched by the European Commission, the Pact is part of the European Green Deal and is helping the EU to meet its goal to become climate-neutral by 2050. This work presents examples of activities of the EU Climate pact ambassador in different directions (international and national/local level), with an unique goal, to increase awareness of importance of action, change of mindset, and exchange positive experiences. Climate Action is presented: • through educational activities in EUGLOH project (European Global Health Universities Alliance) - by organizing Course Climate Action for Health and presenting to students at international level different Climate actions activities. • engagement of citizens through Rotary Climate Action in RD 2483 and wither in Rotary international community - as citizens activities - Rotary Climate Action with the aim to increase awareness of climate change and health consequences. • as mentorship activities with PhD students in the field (climate change and air pollution impact on respiratory diseases) - as a research activities. • as an example of cooperation with media in Serbia - increasing of awareness among journalists. There are a lot of possibilities to work in the long-term in the community, using glocal principles and trying to find a way to change the behaviour of citizens towards acceptance of climate neutrality as an important goal. Key messages • Climate Action is citizens action. • Climate action is a way to change the behaviour of citizens towards acceptance of climate neutrality as an important goal.

Wellbeing and sustainability in Europe in the 2010s–An empirical analysis

The decade of the 2010s was characterized by relative economic stability in Europe. Most of the countries had recovered from the financial crisis of the previous decade while the new socio-economic crises, brought by the early 2020s, were not yet on the horizon. The economic stability of this period does not mean the absence of systemic issues at all. Environmental degradation, aging societies, refugee crisis, or offshore scandals are but just to mention a few. However, due to the period of relative stability, the direct impact of these issues in different countries can be better illustrated and compared over the 2010s than during the crisis periods. In order to prove empirically this presumption, I apply longitudinal statistical data analyses, as well as cross-sectional regressions, among 39 European countries. The examined outcome variables are the Happy Planet Index (HPI), as an informal indicator of progress, and its sub-components, as proxy indicators for (subjective) wellbeing and (objective) sustainability. The results confirm the diverse trends in terms of wellbeing and sustainability in spite of the roughly even formal economic growth over the period. This highlights the necessity for a multifaceted approach to assess progress.

Development Trends of Dietary Guidelines Considering Sustainability in Europe

Development Trends of Dietary Guidelines Considering Sustainability in Europe

Synergistic Impacts of Climate Change and Wildfires on Agricultural Sustainability—A Greek Case Study

Climate change and wildfire effects have continued to receive great attention in recent times due to the impact they render on the environment and most especially to the field of agriculture. The purpose of this study was to assess the synergistic impacts of climate change and wildfires on agricultural sustainability. This study adopted a cross-sectional survey design based on the quantitative research approach. Data were collected from 340 environmental experts using an online questionnaire. The results showed that extreme weather events such as heavy rains or extreme droughts negatively influence agricultural sustainability in Europe. The results showed that disruptions in ecosystems caused by climate change have a significant positive impact on agricultural sustainability in Europe. Furthermore, forest regeneration after wildfires showed statistically significant positive influence on agricultural sustainability in Europe. The economic impact of fire on crops, cattle, and farms can be estimated. This information can be used to develop and plan agricultural regions near fire-prone areas; choose the best, most cost-effective, and longest-lasting cultivar; and limit fire risk. It is also clear that increased wildfire smoke negatively affects agricultural sustainability.

Green Horizons Ahead: Navigating Carbon Neutrality in European Transportation by Sky and Sea

Abstract Research purpose. As carbon neutrality gains momentum, industries worldwide are navigating the challenges and opportunities posed by sustainability goals. This article delves into the strategies undertaken by airlines and maritime companies to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 in the European Union (EU). The aim of the research is to explore how the aviation and maritime industries in Europe can effectively transition towards carbon neutrality by 2050, considering their similar technological challenges and opportunities. The objective of this research was to identify and compare currently utilized sustainability initiatives in aviation and maritime companies. The focus is on new insight from airline and maritime companies concentrating on their sustainability practices. Common hurdles, innovative solutions, and shared opportunities in the pursuit of environmental sustainability are explored. Design / Methodology / Approach. The selected research method was qualitative research, which was conducted with in-depth and semi-structured interviews and content analysis. Interviews were conducted with airline company and association representatives and maritime company, research, and education experts. The content analysis was based on sustainability reports and sustainability sections of annual reports. Key findings were synthesized into a theoretical framework and this research explores practical initiatives for a sustainable transformation process. Findings. The call to reduce carbon emissions has been initiated by the EU affecting the transportation sector, particularly aviation and maritime industries where the path to achieving carbon neutrality is constrained by significant technical limitations. Despite these challenges, both sectors share a unified objective according to EU climate targets. Both the aviation and maritime industries face challenges on the path to carbon neutrality. Airlines struggle with the limitations of current aviation technology, hindering the feasibility of large-scale technological advancements. Similarly, maritime companies confront regulatory complexities and infrastructure limitations in the adoption of alternative fuels and emission-reduction technologies since the commonly used tactics of reducing fuel consumption by optimizing speed, routes and scheduling are no longer adequate ways and the energy needs of the shipping industry cannot be met only with battery technology. Originality / Value / Practical implications. These challenges offer opportunities for innovation and collaboration. Investments in research and development are driving advancements in electric and hydrogen aircraft, while the maritime industry is also trying to find hydrogen-based solutions for greener development, but the technologies are not widely available. This leads towards combining bio-oils and technological innovations related to the fleet. Case study 1 sheds light on airline sustainability in Europe, revealing strategies and initiatives that European airlines are currently utilizing in their sustainable transformation journey. Case study 2 explores different means of achieving carbon neutrality in the maritime industry, in particular the potential of common reed (Phragmites australis) as a carbon offset tool for reaching net zero. Both industries are making significant strides towards carbon neutrality through a combination of technological innovation, operational efficiencies, and strategic partnerships. Towards green horizons as transport industries converge on the path to carbon neutrality.

Understanding the Role of Corporate Governance in Driving Sustainability in Europe

Understanding the Role of Corporate Governance in Driving Sustainability in Europe

Debt Sustainability in Europe: An Analysis of Challenges and Policy Implications

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of debt sustainability in Europe, offering insights into the challenges faced by European countries and proposing policy implications for achieving and maintaining fiscal stability. The European continent has encountered significant economic and financial challenges in recent years, necessitating a closer examination of public debt levels. The paper evaluates the factors influencing debt sustainability, assesses the current state of debt in Europe, and puts forward policy recommendations to address these challenges in the pursuit of long-term fiscal responsibility.

The Green Deal in the Context of Sustainable Finance

The paper focuses on the topic of the Green Deal in the context of sustainable finance. First, the thesis presents definitions of the terms that need to be understood in the field of sustainable finance. Among these concepts, we concentrate especially on green finance, the Green Deal itself, and the related Green Deal Investment Plan, also referred to as the Sustainable Europe Investment Plan, which is the investment pillar of the Green Deal. The Just Transition Mechanism, based on the Sustainable Europe Investment Plan, is also analyzed in the paper. We then focus on the EU Action Plan on Financing Sustainable Growth from 2018 and its 2021 revisions. The paper also deals with the sustainable finance objectives and their implementation achieved to date. The aim of the paper is to analyze the Green Deal in the context of sustainable finance. Finally, by conducting research, we were able to evaluate the hypothesis whether the Green Deal fulfills the stated intentions of sustainable finance. The research methodology of this paper includes the analysis, synthesis, and comparison of the available literature on the subject.

Modeling Indium Extraction, Supply, Price, Use and Recycling 1930–2200 Using the WORLD7 Model: Implication for the Imaginaries of Sustainable Europe 2050

The increasing need for indium in photovoltaic technologies is set to exceed available supply. Current estimates suggest only 25% of global solar cell demand for indium can be met, posing a significant challenge for the energy transition. Using the WORLD7 model, this study evaluated the sustainability of indium production and overall market supply. The model considers both mass balance and the dynamic interplay of supply–demand in determining indium prices. It is estimated that a total of 312,000 tons of indium can be extracted. However, the primary hindrance to supply is the availability of extraction opportunities and the necessary infrastructure. Unless we improve production capacity, indium may face shortages, hindering the advancement of pivotal technologies. A concern observed is the insufficient rate of indium recycling. Boosting this could greatly alleviate supply pressures. Projections indicate that indium production will reach its peak between 2025 and 2030, while the peak for photovoltaic solar panels due to indium shortages is anticipated around 2090, with an installed capacity of 1200 GW. Thus, the growth of photovoltaic capacity may lag behind actual demand. For a sustainable future, understanding the role of essential metals like indium is crucial. The European Environment Agency (EEA) introduced four “imaginaries” depicting visions of a sustainable Europe by 2050 (SE2050), each representing a unique future set within specific parameters. Currently, Europe is heavily dependent on imports for tech metals and has limited recycling capabilities, putting it at a disadvantage in a global context. To achieve sustainability, there is a need for improved infrastructure for extraction, recycling, and conservation of metals such as indium. These resources are crucial for realizing Europe’s 2050 sustainability objectives. Furthermore, understanding the role of these metals in wider overarching strategies is vital for envisioning a sustainable European Union by 2050, as depicted in the Imaginaries.

CLUSTER GROUPING OF EU MEMBER STATES ACCORDING TO SOME ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE AND CIRCULAR ECONOMIC INDICATORS

In the next few years, the EU economy must go through a big change that will lead to a greener and more sustainable Europe. The goal is to use natural resources less, which will help protect biodiversity and cut down on waste, both of which are important parts of being sustainable. The EU Commission has been publishing reports, decisions and plans for the transition to a circular economy since 2015, with the primary aim of helping European countries to make the transition and accelerate progress. In 2020 the European Commission adopted a new Circular Economy Action Plan, and measuring the transition to a circular economy is part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under SDG 12, Sustainable Production and Consumption. All EU Member States now aim to monitor their progress towards the SDG targets. After 2017, the problem of measuring the circular economy has also seen a surge in the literature, with an increasing number of experts exploring the issue. The circular economy concept covers many sectors, so it is clear that it cannot be captured by a single indicator. However, each country measures this using different national indicators, depending on the country's weaknesses and what it considers important to measure. Today, the issue of the transition to a circular economy (CE) in the EU has gained momentum. In recent years, the shift towards a circular economy has become increasingly visible in EU Member States. In their statistical records, they try to provide indicators to show the extent of this change. In other words, EU countries are increasingly focusing on measuring their progress at a macro level. At the same time, Member States are using different approaches to measuring sustainable consumption and production, and thus different indicators to measure the circular economy, and the shift towards the circular economy has become more pronounced in both less developed and developed EU Member States. The difference between Member States in this respect lies in their different levels of development and the fact that they have their own strategies and indicators. All the indicators under SDG 12 on achieving sustainable consumption and production measure the achievement of this objective. The difference between countries is that the indicators against which the SDGs are measured are not uniform. The indicators and their corresponding values can be found in the statistical systems of the Member States. The following study brings together the relevant information and aims to provide a general picture of the similarities and differences in this area, and to divide the EU countries into two distinct clusters using the indicators of the circular economy.

Using the Nature Futures Framework as a lens for developing plural land use scenarios for Europe for 2050

Ambitious international targets are being developed to protect and restore biodiversity under the Convention on Biological Diversity’s post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework and the European Union’s Green Deal. Yet, the land system consequences of meeting such targets are unclear, as multiple pathways may be able to deliver on the set targets. This paper introduces a novel scenario approach assessing the plural implementations of these targets. The Nature Futures Framework (NFF) developed by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services aims to illustrate the different, positive ways in which society can value nature. It therefore offers a lens through which the spatial implementation of sustainability targets may be envisioned. We used CLUMondo, a spatially explicit model, to simulate plural land system scenarios for Europe for 2050. The model builds on current land system representations of Europe and explores how and where sustainability targets can be implemented under projected population trends and commodity demands. We created three different scenarios in which the sustainability targets are met, each representing an alternative, normative view on nature as represented by the NFF, favoring land systems providing strong climate regulation (Nature for Society), species conservation (Nature for Nature), or agricultural heritage features (Nature as Culture). Our results show that, irrespective of the NFF view, meeting sustainability targets will require European land systems to drastically change, as natural grasslands and forests are forecast to expand while productive areas are projected to undergo a dual intensification and diversification trajectory. Despite each NFF perspective showcasing a similar direction of change, 20% of Europe's land area will differ based on the adopted NFF perspective, with hotspots of disagreement identified in eastern and western Europe. These simulations go beyond existing scenario approaches by not only depicting broad societal developments for Europe, but also by quantifying the land system synergies and trade-offs associated with alternative, archetypal, interpretations and values of how nature may be managed for sustainability. This quantification exemplifies a means towards constructive dialogue, on the one hand by acknowledging areas of contention, and bringing such issues to the fore, and on the other by highlighting points of convergence in a vision for a sustainable Europe.

Sustainable Europe: Cross-cutting strategies for a future-proof Union

Sustainable Europe: Cross-cutting strategies for a future-proof Union

Sustainability in Europe: A Case of Cognitive HRD in SPRING Countries. SPRING (Spain, Portugal, Romania, Italy, Norway and Germany)

The purpose of this case study is to investigate the sustainability & social welfare aspects in Europe with special reference to the proposed SPRING countries. This research will also evaluate the Cognitive HRD contribution towards sustainability. This research has proposed five models to achieve the purpose of the research. The first model as cognitive HRD visions cover the factors that can enhance social welfare in the sampled countries. The second model named as Cognitive HRD development. This model elaborates micro & macro level of contribution in SPRING countries with special reference to social welfare. The third model is named as corporate concern framework that is about the sustainable corporate visions. The fourth model is related to country competency framework that elaborates the sustainable competency of SPRING countries. The fifth model is pertinent to the proposed branding strategies for SPRING countries. Further, all the models will be compared in order to check the standing of different countries. This Case paper relates to sustainability strategies in order to combat employee crisis, social welfare, sustainability and cognitive HR development. The paper will put the views & reviews on the required approach to be utilized in SPRING countries. The SPRING stands for Spain, Portugal, Romania, Italy, Norway and Germany. The main focus will remain on the proposed five models towards sustainability issues in SPRING countries.

A paradox: mercantile organic against sustainability in Europe?

A paradox: mercantile organic against sustainability in Europe?

Public Policies for Territorial Cohesion and Sustainability in Europe: An Overview

This paper provides an analysis of public policies for territorial cohesion and sustainability in Europe, using a conceptual framework that takes into account theoretical approaches and empirical studies. Three case studies were examined, including the Tâmega e Sousa region in Portugal, the Jaén region in Spain, and the Province of Avellino in Italy. The analysis revealed similarities and differences between these territories in terms of the effectiveness of public policies for territorial cohesion and sustainability. Positive points included the creation of networks and partnerships, the use of smart specialization strategies, and the promotion of sustainable tourism. Negative points included a lack of coordination between different levels of government, insufficient investment in infrastructure, and a lack of awareness of the potential benefits of sustainability. Based on these findings, the paper suggests several recommendations for public policies and research on territorial cohesion and sustainability. These include the need for greater collaboration between different levels of government and stakeholders, increased investment in infrastructure and innovation, and the development of more sustainable tourism strategies. Overall, this paper highlights the importance of public policies for territorial cohesion and sustainability in promoting economic development, social cohesion, and environmental sustainability in Europe.

Discourses surrounding sustainability and digitalization in Europe on Twitter over time

Digitalization and sustainability transformations are contested change processes, accompanied by wide public discourse. But what concerns the public? Our analysis of the social media discourse on Twitter in the last decade reveals key discursive hubs such as smart cities and climate change, as well as blind spots such as sufficiency strategies. It also points to differences between societal and academic discourse, and where increased engagement of researchers and sustainability professionals would be needed to move forward.This study analyzes the discourses surrounding the interrelation between digitalization and sustainability in Europe on Twitter between 2010 and 2021. We identify 34,802 tweets related to the interrelation between digitalization and sustainability among 634,017 tweets discussing sustainability issues with explicit mentions of Europe. Based on a qualitative analysis of tweets, we identify the main domains discussed (and not discussed). We then sketch the development of the identified domains, as well as their relationship to each other over time, based on a quantitative analysis of their (co-)occurrences. We find that smart city and mobility were two of the most dominant and interrelated domains, particularly in the middle of the decade. In parallel, the domain of climate change has gained ever more attention since 2017 and has emerged as a discursive hub. We further develop hypotheses for how external factors and events (especially EU-level programs) likely led to increases in attention to some domains. Finally, we find that the Twitter discourse across domains mirrors common blind spots regarding sustainable digitalization discourses in its uncritical stance toward economic growth and its overreliance on efficiency in comparison to sufficiency concerns.

Public Health Framework for Smart Cities within the Comprehensive Approach to Sustainability in Europe: Case Study of Diabetes

European cities should address the climate change challenges, improving quality of life and reducing costs. They need potential smart and digital approaches. Public health (PH) has recognized climate change as a major challenge. The development of urban policies should be guided by evidence-based PH practices. The environmental health determinants and the climate crisis now represent a clear PH threat. The core of the Smart City is sustainability, and its basic condition is active PH. The inclusion of public health into the pillars of the Smart City concept to contribute toward mitigating PH crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, is a framework for action. Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM) is used to elicit a Smart Public Health City (SPHEC) framework. A set of PH and smart city experts participated in the DSRM process, using diabetes as a case study. The European Green Deal served as a blueprint for this transformational change toward a healthier and more sustainable city. The SPHEC framework was defined by elucidating clearly the several dimensions of the PH functions within a digital city, via the identification of a set of digital PH services that are required to support the SPHEC framework. This allows for an assessment of the actual benefits that are obtained with the digital health services, and provides evidence for guiding decision-making. The role of digital PH services emerges from the analysis of the SPHEC framework, through the development of proper digital health services within the smart city, strengthening capacity and resilience in future climate emergencies, and motivating policy makers to take this challenge more seriously.

Wind energy sustainability in Europe—A review of knowledge gaps, opportunities and circular strategies

<abstract> <p>Wind energy has become a very interesting option regarding the replacement of fossil-based energy sources by renewable options. Despite its eco-friendly character, some challenges remain across the whole lifecycle of wind turbines. These are mainly related to the use of more sustainable materials and processes in the construction phase, to lifetime extension for the structures currently installed and to waste management at the end-of-life phase, the disassembly or decommissioning phase. Following worldwide concerns about sustainability, the circular economy and decarbonization, several projects have been addressing the themes identified, proposing alternatives that are more suitable and contribute to the body of knowledge in the sector towards enhanced environmental and technical performance.</p> <p>This work presents the state of the art of the European wind energy sector, reflecting on the main drivers, barriers and challenges for circularity, while identifying knowledge gaps and strategic opportunities to develop new potential approaches. A compilation of key projects and main wind energy sites in Europe is shown, as well as a collection of lifecycle extension strategies and reported environmental impacts. Approaches to sustainability are highlighted, such as recyclability, eco-design and eco-efficiency of the turbine blades. Furthermore, the associated potential environmental, economic and societal impacts are put forward to support the implementation of more circular solutions, which can also contribute to reducing EU energy dependency and more integration of renewable sources. The key goal is to give an overview of the main challenges in the sector, namely, in what relates to potential circular solutions and strategies towards a higher level of sustainability.</p> </abstract>

Sustainable Urban Mobility (SUM), a bibliometric analysis with examples from Budapest and Vienna

Sustainable Urban Mobility (SUM) is a relatively modern term that started to be used in literature after the beginning of the 21st century and has recently gained significant popularity. In this paper we analyze the main aspects of SUM term, its development, and its main concepts and keywords. We also analyze the main aspects of SUM in Budapest and Vienna and compare them. A bibliometric analysis is achieved on the extracted literature using VOSviewer and Excel software. Analyzing the two case studies is achieved through revising the published plans of SUM in both cities then comparing them. SUM term reached its peak around 2020. The main aspects which accompanied this term are related to sustainable modes, planning, and policies. Budapest and Vienna cities are heading to be more sustainable cities. However, additional steps need to be taken in this regard. Analyzing the situation in the two case studies, depending on the results of the bibliometric analysis and comparing them will help in understanding to which level they represent successful examples of sustainability in Europe. In addition to proposing some useful points to develop the process of producing SUM plans to provide a more balanced and livable urban environment.