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8 pages, 211 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Green Economy and Sustainable Development: The Outlook

by Sergey Zhironkin and Michal Cehlár

Energies 2022, 15(3), 1167; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15031167 - 4 Feb 2022

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4774

Abstract

Modern theories that make up the paradigm of sustainable development, and the best practices derived from them, are based on the consistency of individual and public needs, factors of economic growth and ecosystem conservation [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

Research

Jump to: Editorial

18 pages, 972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reduction of the Information Gap Problem in Industry 4.0 Projects as a Way to Reduce Energy Consumption by the Industrial Sector

by Bartosz Wachnik, Michał Kłodawski and Ewa Kardas-Cinal

Energies 2022, 15(3), 1108; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15031108 - 2 Feb 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2425

Abstract

Reducing energy consumption should be treated as crucial for contemporary information and communication technology (ICT) projects under conditions of Industry 4.0. This research proposes a wider look at the factors influencing the success of ICT industry projects, considering not only technological and procedural [...] Read more.

Reducing energy consumption should be treated as crucial for contemporary information and communication technology (ICT) projects under conditions of Industry 4.0. This research proposes a wider look at the factors influencing the success of ICT industry projects, considering not only technological and procedural conditions or implementation methods but also information and competency resources, thus allowing for correct decisions to be taken during project implementation. The article analyzes the information gap in Industry 4.0 projects completed in enterprises based in Poland, following the concept of sustainable development and minimization of energy consumption. The research was completed between 2018 and 2021 in medium enterprises, and the result is a qualitative characteristic of the information gap in ICT projects from the client’s perspective. The research can help develop a complete methodology for Industry 4.0 ICT projects to limit the level of uncertainty and risk while reducing energy consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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28 pages, 5366 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Energy Planning for Near-Zero Carbon Emission Demonstration District in Urban Areas: A Case Study of Meishan District in Ningbo, China

by Xiaoyan Xu, Ying Wang, Yingjun Ruan, Jian Wang, Kailiang Ge, Yongming Zhang and Haikui Jin

Energies 2022, 15(3), 874; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15030874 - 25 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3038

Abstract

Reasonable regional integrated energy planning is an important prerequisite for the construction of a Near-Zero Carbon Emission Demonstration District (NCEDD). An integrated energy planning scheme that is based on a three-step planning method with the objective of achieving an NCEDD is proposed in [...] Read more.

Reasonable regional integrated energy planning is an important prerequisite for the construction of a Near-Zero Carbon Emission Demonstration District (NCEDD). An integrated energy planning scheme that is based on a three-step planning method with the objective of achieving an NCEDD is proposed in this paper. First, the planning objectives should be determined. After that, the planning strategies should be established. Finally, the planning approaches should be proposed according to the previously determined objectives and strategies. A case study considering the integrated energy planning of the Meishan International Near-Zero Carbon Emission Demonstration District (MINCEDD) is investigated to explain the planning method. In addition, the planning results, which are indicated as indexes, are explained, analyzed, and compared to the ones of other districts. The indexes include a proportion of renewable energy to primary energy (73% by 2030 and 108% by 2050), a proportion of renewable power to total power consumption (98% by 2030 and 111% by 2050), and CO₂ emission reduction rates (70% by 2030 and 100% by 2050) and are more advanced than other districts in China. This planning scheme and method can provide a reference for the integrated energy planning of NCEDDs in developed urban areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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15 pages, 4762 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Hydraulic System for the Automatic Expansion of Powered Roof Support

by Dawid Szurgacz, Beata Borska, Ryszard Diederichs and Sergey Zhironkin

Energies 2022, 15(3), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15030680 - 18 Jan 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2726

Abstract

A mechanical support in a longwall complex requires proper supervision and control of operating parameters because it is responsible for the safety of machines and workers. Its main functions are to protect the excavation against the adverse effects of rock mass and to [...] Read more.

A mechanical support in a longwall complex requires proper supervision and control of operating parameters because it is responsible for the safety of machines and workers. Its main functions are to protect the excavation against the adverse effects of rock mass and to move it along with the operational progress of the shearer and the scraper conveyor. In the era of Industry 4.0 as well as green economy and sustainable development, the development of machines and devices included in the longwall complex is an important area of invention. When it comes to the mechanical support included in the longwall complex, the authors propose changes to the hydraulic control system. The main purpose of the work was to develop a system that can automatically expand the legs of the powered support. Tests were carried out under real conditions while equipping the support section with a prototypical hydraulic system and with a system monitoring the correct operation of the prototype. This article presents the development of a prototypical installation under real conditions for testing on a longwall. The innovative solution proposed by the authors consisted of introducing a prototypical double valve block into the hydraulic system of the housing, which enables the function of automatic section expansion. The authors proposed a solution aimed at shortening the work time of the powered-support-section operator. The research results made it possible to evaluate the usefulness of the proposed solution. This type of solution can be considered technical support in the process of coal mining in an underground mine. Analysis presented in this paper, along with results from research conducted and its conclusions, can be of practical help to enclosure users to improve reliability and achieve optimal performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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24 pages, 3684 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Concept for Solving the Sustainability of Cities Worldwide

by Karmen Margeta, Zvonimir Glasnovic, Nataša Zabukovec Logar, Sanja Tišma and Anamarija Farkaš

Energies 2022, 15(2), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15020616 - 16 Jan 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2256

Abstract

Considering that more than half of the world’s population today lives in cities and consumes about 80% of the world’s energy and that there is a problem with drinking water supply, this paper presents a way to solve the problem of the sustainability [...] Read more.

Considering that more than half of the world’s population today lives in cities and consumes about 80% of the world’s energy and that there is a problem with drinking water supply, this paper presents a way to solve the problem of the sustainability of cities by enabling their complete independence from external sources of energy and drinking water. The proposed solution entails the use of Seawater Steam Engine (SSE) technology to supply cities with electricity, thermal energy and drinking water. The system would involve the seasonal storage of electricity and thermal energy, supported by geothermal heat pumps. The strategy of the distribution network would be based on the original concept of the “loop”. In cities that do not have enough space, SSE collectors would be placed above the lower parts of the city like “canopies”. The city of Zagreb (Croatia) was selected as a case study due to its size, climate and vulnerability to natural disasters. The results show that Zagreb could become sustainable in 30 years with the allocation of less than 2% of GDP and could become a paradigm of sustainability for cities worldwide. This paper encourages the development of the “Philosophy of Sustainability” because the stated goals cannot be achieved without a change in consciousness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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22 pages, 2549 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Examining the Relationship between Energy Consumption and Unfavorable CO₂ Emissions on Sustainable Development by Going through Various Violated Factors and Stochastic Disturbance–Based on a Three-Stage SBM-DEA Model

by Wengchin Fong, Yao Sun and Yujie Chen

Energies 2022, 15(2), 569; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15020569 - 13 Jan 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2247

Abstract

The article applies a three-stage Slacks-Based Measure-Data Envelopment Analysis (SBM-DEA) pattern to examine the relationship between energy consumption and unfavorable CO₂ emissions on green sustainable development, for the 11 cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) during 2010–2016, by going [...] Read more.

The article applies a three-stage Slacks-Based Measure-Data Envelopment Analysis (SBM-DEA) pattern to examine the relationship between energy consumption and unfavorable CO₂ emissions on green sustainable development, for the 11 cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) during 2010–2016, by going through various violated factors and stochastic disturbance. Labor, capital and energy resource are chosen as input variables, while GDP and CO₂ emission as output variables. During the three phases consisting of the SBM-DEA model (first stage and third stage) and SFA analysis (second stage), CO₂ emission is considered as an unfavorable outcome, while stochastic statistical disturbances and external environmental influences are identified. The results show that the average efficiency of the GBA cities is 0.708, with only Shenzhen, Macao SAR and Hong Kong SAR having an efficiency of 1 during the whole study period. Based on the findings, suggestions are made for the GBA cities’ sustainable development aspects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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20 pages, 1395 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Strategy for Planned Product Aging in View of Sustainable Development Challenges

by Małgorzata Niklewicz-Pijaczyńska, Elżbieta Stańczyk, Anna Gardocka-Jałowiec, Zofia Gródek-Szostak, Agata Niemczyk, Katarzyna Szalonka and Magdalena Homa

Energies 2021, 14(22), 7793; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14227793 - 21 Nov 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2494

Abstract

In this paper, the issue of the deliberate aging of products by manufacturers is discussed. Deliberate aging consists in intentionally planning or designing a product with an artificially limited lifetime in order to force consumers to replace it faster. The resulting rapid acceleration [...] Read more.

In this paper, the issue of the deliberate aging of products by manufacturers is discussed. Deliberate aging consists in intentionally planning or designing a product with an artificially limited lifetime in order to force consumers to replace it faster. The resulting rapid acceleration of the cycle of obtaining and utilizing consumer goods has serious consequences in the form of negative externalities. For this reason, the conscious aging of products is now recognized as the cause of unjustified consumption, generating huge economic and social costs and leading to the devastation of the natural environment and excessive exploitation of natural resources. Thus, it is in clear contradiction to the model of sustainable development. The aim of this paper was to identify the purchasing attitudes of buyers in the durable goods market. For its implementation, a pilot questionnaire study, which covered a representative group of 354 respondents, was carried out. The results indicate that the factors that influence the purchase of restitution goods depend on the type of product and the consumer’s income. At the same time, about two thirds of the respondents recognized the problem of the deliberate aging of products. In their opinion, the goods produced in the autarkic economy were more durable and their life cycle was much longer. The results obtained require further empirical verification carried out in comparative studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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22 pages, 3649 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Analysis of the EU-27 Countries Energy Markets Integration in Terms of the Sustainable Development SDG7 Implementation

by Aurelia Rybak, Aleksandra Rybak and Spas D. Kolev

Energies 2021, 14(21), 7079; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14217079 - 29 Oct 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2262

Abstract

The article presents the results of research related to the SDG7 sustainable development implementation analysis. The goal is to provide affordable and clean energy. Its implementation will allow for development that will simultaneously provide the possibility of economic growth and the achievement of [...] Read more.

The article presents the results of research related to the SDG7 sustainable development implementation analysis. The goal is to provide affordable and clean energy. Its implementation will allow for development that will simultaneously provide the possibility of economic growth and the achievement of an optimal level of citizens’ health and life. The research was conducted for the countries of the European Union EU-27. During the analysis, the indicators proposed by Eurostat were used. The research aimed to examine the progress in EU member states’ energy markets integration. In order to carry out the indispensable research, it was necessary to use a spatial information system. Cluster analysis, as well as TSA analysis, were applied. The conducted research made it possible to verify the posed hypotheses and showed that the energy transformation process of the EU-27 countries is so complicated and heterogeneous that it has given rise to new independent and unique clusters. The authors also verified the adopted set of SDG7 achievement indicators using multiple regression. Additional indicators were also proposed that could complement the set and clarify its analyses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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16 pages, 2738 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Evaluation of an Innovative Non-Metallic Flat Plate Solar Collector

by Radim Rybár, Martin Beer, Tawfik Mudarri, Sergey Zhironkin, Kamila Bačová and Jaroslav Dugas

Energies 2021, 14(19), 6240; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14196240 - 30 Sep 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1834

Abstract

The present article deals with the concept of the non-metallic flat plate liquid solar collector and its evaluation. The innovative concept lies in the elimination of metal parts of the solar collector and their replacement by the foam glass block, which significantly reduces [...] Read more.

The present article deals with the concept of the non-metallic flat plate liquid solar collector and its evaluation. The innovative concept lies in the elimination of metal parts of the solar collector and their replacement by the foam glass block, which significantly reduces the energy and material demands of the production process. The evaluation of the collector took place in two phases, the first was focused on the numerical evaluation, which resulted in the compilation of a theoretical curve of the efficiency of the solar collector. The second phase was focused on verifying the basic functionality of the concept based on the results obtained from experimental tests of the collector, which confirmed the functionality of the concept and revealed several areas that will need to be addressed in the further development of the prototype. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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22 pages, 15262 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Communal Waste in Slovakia from the View of Chosen Economic Indicators

by Beáta Stehlíková, Katarína Čulková, Marcela Taušová, Ľubomír Štrba and Eva Mihaliková

Energies 2021, 14(16), 5052; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14165052 - 17 Aug 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1940

Abstract

Waste treatment consists of activities required to make sure that waste has the least practical impact on the environment. In Slovakia, more than 50% of waste is in storage. Waste development depends on the economic situation of the state. In Slovakia, there is [...] Read more.

Waste treatment consists of activities required to make sure that waste has the least practical impact on the environment. In Slovakia, more than 50% of waste is in storage. Waste development depends on the economic situation of the state. In Slovakia, there is economic intolerance of waste treatment due to the weaker economic situation of the inhabitants. The goal of this contribution is to study the development of waste production in Slovakia in regard to economic indexes of households with the aim of improving waste management. The goal is achieved by searching for a relation between economic indexes and households by a correlation matrix and by verification of polynomial dependence. According to the results of the statistical importance, we found similarity of the regions in chosen indexes by using of cluster analysis. By this method a sustainable economy and healthy environment is guaranteed and waste is used to produce energy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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14 pages, 2307 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Effective Material Use from the View of EU Environmental Policy Goals

by Marcela Taušová, Katarína Čulková, Peter Tauš, Lucia Domaracká and Andrea Seňová

Energies 2021, 14(16), 4759; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14164759 - 5 Aug 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2069

Abstract

Humanity is dependent on natural resources. Use and productivity of these resources plays an important role in energy savings and circular economy. The goal of this contribution is to evaluate productivity of resources in the frame of EU countries. Single analysis deals with [...] Read more.

Humanity is dependent on natural resources. Use and productivity of these resources plays an important role in energy savings and circular economy. The goal of this contribution is to evaluate productivity of resources in the frame of EU countries. Single analysis deals with data from the publicly available portal database and collected data were processed in the statistical software JMP. The trend of development and analysis of variability and linear dependence helped to create cluster analysis and comparison of the EU countries. The results from the view of average value of the indicator registered the growth, and from the view of variability the statistically important differences were verified for EU member states. Some pairs of indicators recorded positive, while some pairs recorded negative linear dependence. Cluster analysis shows two groups of countries—the first one with positive results, having the lowest tax burden in the case of energy taxes and environment, and the second one with negative results, having the highest tax burden of environmental and energy policy. The results are useful for a proper setting of energy and environmental goals that can increase the effectiveness of resource productivity in the countries studied. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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32 pages, 14617 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role and Place of Traditional Chimney System Solutions in Environmental Progress and in Reducing Energy Consumption

by Dariusz Bajno, Łukasz Bednarz and Agnieszka Grzybowska

Energies 2021, 14(16), 4720; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14164720 - 4 Aug 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2591

Abstract

Buildings, energy, and the environment are key issues facing construction around the world. The energy efficiency of buildings is a key topic when it comes to reducing the world’s energy consumption, releasing harmful gases, and global climate change, as they consume about 40% [...] Read more.

Buildings, energy, and the environment are key issues facing construction around the world. The energy efficiency of buildings is a key topic when it comes to reducing the world’s energy consumption, releasing harmful gases, and global climate change, as they consume about 40% of the world’s energy supplies. Heat losses in buildings reduce the energy performance of buildings and are basically important to them. In the paper, the authors focus on the main problems related to heat losses generated by chimney systems, which are inseparable equipment of building structures, resulting in lower energy efficiency and, at the same time, technical efficiency and durability of the building partitions themselves. Authors present thermal imaging with its contribution to the detection of heat losses, thermal bridges, insulation problems, and other performance disturbances, and then verifications using appropriate simulation models. The mathematical apparatus of artificial neural networks was implemented to predict the temperature distributions on the surfaces of prefabricated chimney solutions. In Europe, we can often find a large building substance equipped with traditional chimneys, which disrupts the current trend of striving to reduce energy consumption, especially that derived from fossil fuels. Speaking of energy-efficient buildings, one should not ignore those that, without additional security and modern installations, are constantly used in a very wide range. Therefore, the article deals with an essential problem that is not perceived in design studies and during the operation period as having a basis in incorrect architectural solutions and which can be easily eliminated. It concerns the cooling of internal partitions of buildings on their last storeys, in places where chimneys are located, regardless of their function. The authors of the paper decided to take a closer look at this phenomenon, which may allow the limiting of its effects and at the same time reduce its impact on the energy performance of technologically older buildings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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17 pages, 2225 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Development Potential of Post-Industrial Areas in Terms of Social, Economic and Environmental Aspects: The Case of Wałbrzych Region (Poland)

by Beata Raszka, Halina Dzieżyc and Maria Hełdak

Energies 2021, 14(15), 4562; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14154562 - 28 Jul 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 1941

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to assess the development potential of cities and municipalities in Wałbrzych County, approached from the perspective of social, economic and environmental potential. Comparisons were performed for the periods 2002–2004 and 2016–2018. The following problem questions were formulated [...] Read more.

The purpose of this research was to assess the development potential of cities and municipalities in Wałbrzych County, approached from the perspective of social, economic and environmental potential. Comparisons were performed for the periods 2002–2004 and 2016–2018. The following problem questions were formulated in the study: Which strategic goals can currently act as incentives for taking action in the analysed post-industrial areas, and for which ones should development be particularly strengthened? What development direction should be taken by individual municipalities in Wałbrzych County? The research covering the development potential of the municipalities was conducted using the multidimensional analysis method, and the similarities in municipal potential were analysed taking into account a comparison of distances between individual diagnostic variables. Among the analysed municipalities, in terms of social, economic and environmental potential, Szczawno-Zdrój and Czarny Bór achieved the best results, and Boguszów Gorce ranked the worst. In some municipalities, a noticeable increase in social potential (Jedlina-Zdrój, Mieroszów, Walim) or economic potential (Jedlina-Zdrój) was observed, and a significant decline in economic potential in Stare Bogaczowice was seen. As a result of the research, the following was established: the policies of municipal authorities have to focus on improving the living conditions of residents; the crucial factors are opening new jobs, providing appropriate living conditions and services and offering diverse sports and tourism options. Efforts should be made to take advantage of the inherent potential in the area, also by highlighting the preserved post-industrial buildings and constructions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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20 pages, 4279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Analysis of Concentrated Solar Heaters for Segmented Heat Accumulators

by Martin Beer, Radim Rybár, Jana Rybárová, Andrea Seňová and Vojtech Ferencz

Energies 2021, 14(14), 4350; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14144350 - 19 Jul 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2094

Abstract

This presented paper focuses on the design and evaluation of the concept of concentrated solar heaters for segmental heat accumulators, which are designed to cover the energy needs of selected communities in terms of food preparation without the need for fossil fuels, which [...] Read more.

This presented paper focuses on the design and evaluation of the concept of concentrated solar heaters for segmental heat accumulators, which are designed to cover the energy needs of selected communities in terms of food preparation without the need for fossil fuels, which have a negative impact not only on the climate but especially on health. The proposed device is based on the traditional method of food preparation in the so-called earth oven; however, the fire-heated stones are replaced with heat accumulators heated by solar radiation. This approach eliminates the need to change common and long-term habits of food preparation for selected communities. The device connects solar vacuum heat pipes, a solar radiation concentrator, and heat accumulators. The concept was evaluated based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis with the use of a transient simulation of selected operating situations in three geographical locations. The results showed a significant temperature increase of the heat accumulators, where in the most effective case the temperature increased up to 227.23 °C. The concept was also evaluated based on a calorimetric analysis of the system consisting of heat accumulators and food. The resulting temperature in the considered case reached the pasteurization temperature necessary for safe and healthy food preparation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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19 pages, 5547 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between ROP Funds and Sustainable Development—A Case Study for Poland

by Łukasz Mach, Karina Bedrunka, Ireneusz Dąbrowski and Paweł Frącz

Energies 2021, 14(9), 2677; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14092677 - 6 May 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2479

Abstract

The aim of this research is to analyse the correlation between public intervention in Poland within the Regional Operational Programmes and the key macroeconomic variables for the sustainable development of regions, i.e., the labour market, with particular emphasis on the unemployment rate and [...] Read more.

The aim of this research is to analyse the correlation between public intervention in Poland within the Regional Operational Programmes and the key macroeconomic variables for the sustainable development of regions, i.e., the labour market, with particular emphasis on the unemployment rate and the level of employment; the average monthly remuneration; the residential construction market, with particular emphasis on the number of permits issued for the construction of apartments and the number of apartments under construction. The research and the analyses carried out on the basis of the above-mentioned aspects made it possible to indicate the relations between the studied macroeconomic indicators and the EU funds spending in Polish provinces, which will enable the implementation of the sustainable development policy. The capitals used in the research process are very important components of the region’s and country’s sustainable development. In the research, a calculation methodology was applied based on the analysis of time variability of the examined determinants, their correlation and regression relationships. The tools and methods of data analysis used allowed the quantification of the relationship between the macroeconomic determinants studied and the pace and value of payments made. The conducted analyses have shown a positive influence of the payments made in Poland within the framework of Regional Operational Programmes on selected macroeconomic indicators, i.e., regional economic and social-institutional capitals. The research results obtained may have a practical decision-making aspect for regional and national authorities responsible for the disbursement of EU funds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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35 pages, 868 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“Green Energy” and the Standard of Living of the EU Residents

by Mariusz Malinowski

Energies 2021, 14(8), 2186; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14082186 - 14 Apr 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2522

Abstract

The author intended to present the relationship between the standard of living of EU citizens and the level of the development of renewable energy. It is particularly important in the context of the implementation of the sustainable development idea, by ensuring a high [...] Read more.

The author intended to present the relationship between the standard of living of EU citizens and the level of the development of renewable energy. It is particularly important in the context of the implementation of the sustainable development idea, by ensuring a high standard of living for both current and future generations, with rational use of available natural resources. The first, theoretical part of the article presents the problem related to the impact of renewable energy on the standard of living in a synthetic way. The second part involves empirical research conducted in all countries of the EU. To evaluate the level of renewable energy development and the standard of living, the author constructed original measures based on the TOPSIS method. Variables were selected on the basis of substantive, statistical and formal criteria (primarily the completeness and availability of data in 2019). Within the framework of the conducted study, the author obtained, among other things, a relatively high value of Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient between the constructed synthetic measures (0.47). Canonical analysis was used to identify the relationship between them. Numerous indicators, including canonical correlations, complete redundancy and extracted variances, were determined with the use of canonical analysis. Seven statistically significant canonical variables were identified. The value of the greatest and most statistically significant canonical correlation exceeded 0.94, and for the last statistically significant canonical variable, the value reached over 0.31. Statistical data were primarily obtained from the publicly available EUROSTAT database. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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13 pages, 2297 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Customized Encapsulant Polyvinyl Butyral Used in the Solar Industry and Its Impact on the Environment

by Samer Khouri, Marcel Behun, Lucia Knapcikova, Annamaria Behunova, Marian Sofranko and Andrea Rosova

Energies 2020, 13(20), 5391; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13205391 - 15 Oct 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2515

Abstract

Taking climate and geopolitical issues into account, we must shift our thinking towards “eco” and focus on renewable energy. The accessible solar energy represents 400 times the amount of consumption, while its potential represents 10,000 times the amount of demand. The paper aims [...] Read more.

Taking climate and geopolitical issues into account, we must shift our thinking towards “eco” and focus on renewable energy. The accessible solar energy represents 400 times the amount of consumption, while its potential represents 10,000 times the amount of demand. The paper aims to analyze recycled, customized polyvinyl butyral (PVB) with high purity (more than 98%) concerning its physicochemical and mechanical properties and its possible applicability in the photovoltaic industry as an encapsulating material. The detailed investigation on polyvinyl butyral starting from characterizations, homogenization, and moulding process to tensile tests and used exposure testing in laboratory apparatus are performed. Samples of recycled polyvinyl butyral were exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation of the value 0.76 W.m^–2.nm^–1 at 340 nm, water spray, drying at 50 °C and condensation for 320 h when the radiation was turned off. The results obtained were more controlled in a laboratory environment than those found in external, uncontrolled environments. These conditions subsequently accelerate any degradation of polyvinyl butyral as a material and subsequent degradation of the final product. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Economy and Sustainable Development)

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