Historyczne uwarunkowania różnic w rozwoju polskich regionów i wybrane problemy finansowania publicznego jako bariery realizacji celów zrównoważonego rozwoju

Author(s): Oliwia Jędrzejewska,Julia Ziółkowska / Language(s): Polish Publication Year: 0

Purpose: The aim of this study is to indicate the role of the state in the pursuit of sustainable development of Poland. Design/methodology/approach: The authors assume that historical factors underlie the differentiated development of Polish regions. A critical review of the literature on historical determinants of development of Polish regions was conducted. International legal conditions calling on Poland to take action to reduce adverse climate change are presented. The amount of state budget expenditure on tasks related to sustainable development of the country is discussed. Secondary data from the reports of the Council of Ministers were used. Findings: Differences in the level of the development of Polish regions are historically determined. Compared to other countries, the degree of Poland’s achievement of sustainable development goals is satisfactory, as it ranks 23rd in the world ranking (out of 193 possible places). Budget expenditures on tasks contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals are relatively small. Originality and value: It is pointed out that in the past, the amount of spending on state development financing has varied. Historical conditions continue to affect the uneven development of individual regions. The authors suggest that the unsatisfactory level of the development of some regions is due not so much to the lack of access to funding sources, but to the mentality of people living in these areas.

Neutralność klimatyczna a interes Polski

Author(s): Dominika Szajda / Language(s): Polish Publication Year: 0

Purpose: The author aims to determine the estimated cost of adaptation of the Polish economy to a zero-emission energy system, taking into account the social aspect. Design/methodology/approach: The chapter shows that one of the causes of adverse climate change and increased air pollution in Poland is the increased burning of fossil fuels. It presents actions taken by international organizations to achieve climate neutrality. Against this background, Poland’s attitude towards the problem of ensuring climate neutrality of the economy is presented. The author looks at the problem of climate neutrality through the prism of the so-called social contract for the mining industry. This agreement takes into account the economic losses that the inhabitants of the Silesian Voivodeship will suffer in connection with this adaptation. The author assesses the legal feasibility of the miners’ demands. Findings: Poland should achieve climate neutrality by the early 2030s at the latest. Therefore, the hard coal mines should be already closed now rather than their extraction for each ton of raw material subsidized. In order to achieve climate neutrality it will be necessary to incur very large financial outlays, including for the safe closure of the mines and cash severance packages for the miners. The provisions of the social agreement for the mining industry are contrary to EU law and the climate goals set out in the so-called Paris Agreement. Originality and value: It was pointed out that Polish politicians have an ambivalent attitude towards the energy transition. They do not want to give up a strategic resource for Poland. Thus, they ignore the risks associated with the continued use of coal on a massive scale.

Podatki i opłaty ekologiczne jako instrumenty polityki środowiskowej

Author(s): Wojciech Małolepszy / Language(s): Polish Publication Year: 0

Purpose: Contemporary world’s challenges related to the emerging environmental issues imply a necessity of developing an appropriate set of environmental management tools. The aims of the chapter are to present general principles of ecological taxation and to demonstrate the role of ecological taxes and fees as instruments that contribute effectively to the achievement of environmental protection policy objectives. Design/methodology/approach: The chapter presents a critical review of the academic and institutional research on ecological taxation and the results of a data analysis on environmental taxes in the European Union countries in 2019. It has been divided into four sections. The first and the second ones were devoted to the theoretical, functional and developmental aspects of ecological taxes and fees. Then, the indicators showing size of environmental tax burden in European Union countries were evaluated. The last section focused on a wide range of tax mechanisms and tools that would potentially improve environmental policy around the world. Findings: Ecological taxes and fees play a leading role when it comes to the use of the economic instruments for environmental policy. It is indicated that appropriately designed and implemented ecological tax system can provide comprehensive and effective support for achieving environmental objectives. It is essential to create new ecological tax mechanisms, as well as to modify existing ones to adapt them to the upcoming climate, environmental and energy challenges. Keywords: ecological taxes, ecological fees, environmental policy, ecologisation of the tax system.

Obszary ryzyka w działalności małych i średnich przedsiębiorstw w Polsce

Author(s): Robert Dankiewicz / Language(s): Polish Publication Year: 0

The occurrence of risk in economic activity is a natural phenomenon that requires management aimed at limiting the impact of risk materialization on the situation of enterprises. This phenomenon refers also to small and medium-sized enterprises, which are an extremely key element for the economy both in terms of the number of such entities, their role in generating new jobs, but also the added value. Unfortunately, the problem of risk identification and management in SME companies is at a much lower level than in the case of large entities. Therefore,in the case of small and medium-sized enterprises it seems crucial to have a proper approach to risk identification and management, especially in times of intensive changes in the environment, which in turn may provide an opportunity for new areas of risk to appear. Studies have shown that entrepreneurs are slowly increasing their awareness of the possibility of the occurrence of various types of risk and their consequences, but this increase is often selective. However, this is the basis for the development of appropriate mechanisms and procedures that will allow to conduct business effectively and safely in a changing, often unpredictable environment in the future. The purpose of the study is an attempt to identify and assessthe various areas of risk encountered in the small and medium-sized enterprise sector and their importance.

УСТОЙЧИВО РАЗВИТИЕ И НАЦИОНАЛНИЯ ПЛАН ЗА ВЪЗСТАНОВЯВАНЕ И УСТОЙЧИВОСТ – ПРЕДИЗВИКАТЕЛСТВО ПРЕД СТРОИТЕЛНИЯ БРАНШ

Author(s): Yachko Ivanov / Language(s): Bulgarian Publication Year: 0

The beginning of the 21st century was faced with the demands of the technical revolution 4, environmental problems and ensuring sustainable development. This situation is caused by the extremely rapid growth of the human population and the enormous use of natural resources. At the same time, over the past three years, the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed down the countries' economic development. To restore countries' economies, Recovery and Sustainability Plans have been proposed. The report aims to show and analyze the challenges facing the construction industry regarding the implementation of the National Development and Sustainability Plan.

THE REGIME AND EFFECTIVENESS OF 2022 ECONOMIC SANCTIONS AGAINST THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION

Author(s): Cristian Băhnăreanu / Language(s): English Publication Year: 0

In the early 2022, the world economy is recovering from the decline caused by Covid-19 pandemic –the central banks being prepared to gradually withdraw fiscal and monetary support. The Russian military’s invasion of Ukraine and subsequent sanctions have reversed this trend and risks and uncertainty have suddenly returned amid rising energy, food and other important commodity prices, inflationary pressures, deterioration in financial and labor market conditions. This paper outlines the general framework of economic sanctions, reviews the sanctions adopted by the international community against Russia in the first 100 days of brutal, unjustified and unprovoked illegal military aggression against Ukraine, and identifies their effectiveness and impact on Russia’s economic and financial system.

Meat alternatives—market and cunsumption

Author(s): Iga Rybicka,Karolina Bohdan,Przemysław Łukasz Kowalczewski / Language(s): English Publication Year: 0

Elimination of animal-based products, often related to a vegetarian or vegan diet, is one of the most popular nutritional trends observed around the world. This chapter provides an overview of the assortment, market and consumption of various meat alternatives. Products replacing meat are made of various types of (mostly) plant-based raw materials including pulses/legumes, cereal proteins (mainly gluten), oilseeds, fungi (edible mushrooms) and algae; however, cultured meat and edible insects are also described. The market of meat alternatives was estimated at USD 10,11 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of minimum 15% by 2030. Europe has the largest share (52%) of the global market followed by North America (27%), Asia Pacific (12%), Latin America (6%) and Middle East and Africa (4%). The top producers are Beyond Meat, Boulder Brands, Hain Celestia, Nestlé, Garden Protein International, Vivera, Lightlife Foods, Woolworths, Naturli’ Foods and Sainsbury’s. Despite the fact that vegetarians and vegans constitute 6.4% and 6% of global consumers, respectively, more and more people are willing to either reduce the consumption of meat (62%) or animal-origin (42%) products. This is due to the fact that the consumption of meat-free products plays a role in sustainable development considering multiple health, economic and environmental issues.

Shaping sustainable food consumption attitudes: Bibliometric literature review

Author(s): Natalia Gluza,Doris Antczak,Marcin Gurtatowski / Language(s): English Publication Year: 0

Sustainable food consumption is a crucial aspect of achieving a sustainable future. However, changing people’s attitudes towards food can be a difficult task. In this article, we will conduct a bibliometric literature review to explore the current state of research on shaping sustainable food consumption attitudes. The study uses a sample of 922 papers in various bibliometric analyses. The authors use citation and collaboration analysis to determine the most significant authors and journals, and examine the relationships between the main authors and institutions. Next, they conduct content analysis, using bibliographic coupling, to determine the main areasof research within sustainable food consumption attitudes. The chapter attempts to identify the most important authors, journals and trends in each field.

Household food waste—the origin, level, structure and methods of prevention

Author(s): Bartłomiej Pierański,Luboš Smutka / Language(s): English Publication Year: 0

Food waste is one of the major problems that humanity needs to solve. The gargantuan amount of food wasted each year, estimated at around 1 billion tonnes, creates a range of environmental, economic and ethical problems. Unfortunately, food is wasted to the greatest extent by households. To a lesser extent, food is wasted by producers or intermediaries. Therefore, the aim of this article is first and foremost to identify the causes of food waste by households. To do this,a conceptual framework has been adopted. It assumes that household food waste originates in three predictable stages—when shopping, storing and serving. In other words, households waste food because they do not prepare the food they purchase, they do not serve the food they prepare, and they do not consume the food they serve. The considerations in the paper are based on the available literature and secondary data.

Surplus food redistribution systems as a food waste prevention tool

Author(s): Barbara Borusiak,Blaženka Knežević / Language(s): English Publication Year: 0

The main objective of this chapter is to present solutions designed in order to redistribute surplusfood as a food waste prevention tool. Food surpluses are generated both in supply chains andin households. This chapter presents the surplus food redistribution system structure in terms of entities included into it. Three main types of SFRS institutions will be presented: food banks operating both as front-line and warehouse entities, social supermarkets and food sharing systems, which work as initiatives based on some premises (physical places) where food may beleft and taken from, as well as initiatives operating thanks to Internet platforms. Three categories of these platforms are characterised in this chapter: the “sharing for money” model, which is primarily a B2C for-profit model to reduce waste and, at the same time, generate revenue, the “sharing for charity” model in which food is collected and given to non-profit organisations, and the “sharing for the community” model which is a B2C or C2C model where food is shared amongst consumers.

Mechanizm granicznego podatku węglowego (CBAM) w Polsce

Author(s): Patrycja Niemczyk / Language(s): Polish Publication Year: 0

Purpose: The introduction of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in Poland heralds a new era in environmental policy and trade dynamics. This chapter delves into the objectives of CBAM within the Polish context, examining its potential impact on the national economy, trade relations, and environmental commitments. Employing a comprehensive analysis, the chapter evaluates the methods by which CBAM aims to level the playing field for domestic industries while encouraging entities importing high-emission goods to develop and adopt rigorous carbon emission reduction strategies. Preliminary findings underscore the mechanism’s potential to bolster Poland’s green transition, albeit with reservations regarding challenges associated with the implementation of CBAM by entities importing high-emission goods and the resulting oversight and administrative sanctions. Design/methodology/approach: In the presented work, a qualitative approach was employed, focusing on the analysis of legal regulations related to the CBAM mechanism. The study is primarily based on a meticulous examination of legal documents. Additionally, an analysis of practical challenges associated with the implementation of CBAM in the context of real market cases was conducted to understand the potential challenges and benefits associated with this mechanism. Findings: During the analysis of the implementation of CBAM obligations, several practical challenges emerged that significantly impact the entities subject to these requirements. From a practical standpoint, many entities face hurdles in securing accurate data on emissions from their supply chains. This lack of readily available information complicates the process of compliance and introduces uncertainties in reporting. Another notable challenge is the ambiguity surrounding the transition period. The absence of clear guidelines or established procedures adds to the complexity, leaving these entities uncertain about the appropriate methods and sources for data collection. Addressing these challenges will require concerted efforts, clear guidance, and potentially revised strategies to ensure effective and efficient compliance.

Zakończenie

Author(s): Edyta Małecka-Ziembińska / Language(s): Polish Publication Year: 0

Сервитути за енергийни обекти

Author(s): Gergana Boyanova / Language(s): Bulgarian Publication Year: 0

Easements for energy objects are distinguished by a number of characteristic features according to Bulgarian legislation. A key place among them is their nature as a type of limited property rights, which have undergone a change with the development of social relations in connection with the construction and exploitation of energy objects. As a result, a new category of easement rights has emerged, which theory and practice define as "quasipersonal". They are established for the benefit of certain persons in view of their activities, and not in view of the use of a specific property. The easements that arose during the operation of the repealed laws retain their effect if the energy objects are built in compliance with the relevant rules and norms. The Energy Act provides a special regime for the creation of these easements, as well as some restrictions related to their exercise. An essential feature is that the gratuitous exercise of easements for energy objects is permissible only as an exception, if it concerns real estate - public property.

Wpływ człowieka na środowisko w perspektywie zrównoważonego rozwoju

Author(s): Magdalena Muradin / Language(s): Polish Publication Year: 0

The purpose of this chapter is to present the human impact on the environment from the perspective of sustainable development. It outlines the crisis in human-environment relations and the need to return to a state of equilibrium. It focuses on identifying the main environmental threats and risks associated with human economic activities, analysing areas such as resources, climate, biodiversity, water, air and soil. It also discusses the concept of sustainable development, taking into account the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2030, as well as the European Green Deal strategy. The study points to the need to change attitudes towards natural resources and to implement new business models worldwide in order to achieve a pre-industrial economic-environmental balance and to meet the needs of present and future generations.

Gospodarka o obiegu zamkniętym sposobem na efektywne zarządzanie zasobami

Author(s): Piotr Idczak / Language(s): Polish Publication Year: 0

This chapter aims to present the principal assumptions of the circular economy (CE), which advocates for the rational exploitation of natural resources and emphasises the significance of a closed and continuous cycle in their utilisation, supporting the concept of sustainable and enduring development. Furthermore, the discussions are designed to underscore the necessity of creating consumption patterns and utilising production functions that, as an essential element of management optimisation, advocate for the closure of the material and energy cycles in anthropogenic processes. This chapter strives to portray CE as an initiative that seeks to completely decouple global economic growth from finite resource consumption. This study employs a descriptive research design, incorporating a literature survey followed by logical (epistemological) reasoning and a systemic approach. The continuous effort to increase the production capacity of the economy, aiming to enhance social well-being, exerts significant pressure on the environment. The traditional linear production process involves the unsustainable use of natural resources and generates substantial amounts of waste. This model poses a serious risk of depleting natural materials and precipitating climate change disasters, potentially leading to the collapse of economic and social systems. CE advocates a transition from extractive economies, characterised by excessive and wasteful consumption, to economic models founded on resource efficiency, reuse, sharing, and closed loops. This transition can be facilitated by implementing circular business models that offer solutions to extend the product lifecycle, including repairing and improving products, recovering raw materials from by-products, and recycling end-of-life products, or activities encouraging sharing.

Kraje rozwijające się wobec wyzwań globalnych

Author(s): Katarzyna A. Nawrot / Language(s): Polish Publication Year: 0

The purpose of the chapter is to reflect on global challenges from the perspective of developing countries, what is significant in order to prevent developmental disproportions from deepening. The following global challenges were identified and described: poverty and hunger, developmental inequalities, degradation of the environment and global security. Descriptive and comparative analysis methods were used in order to prepare the chapter, supplemented by presentation of research results, obtained mainly on the basis of selected descriptive statistics methods. The statistical database of the World Bank, United Nations Development Programme, Food and Agriculture Organisation and International Monetary Fund were used. Marginalisation of the developing countries and the challenges they are facing may bring tragic, and what is more global repercussions and, consequently, lead to a new division of the world, escalation of hatred, wars of Western civilisations with the followers of the extreme ideologies, rising inequalities and large uncontrolled migrations, among others. We are witnessing the destruction of ecosystems, global warming, cross continental terrorism, the problems of poverty and hunger – these are just a few of the consequences of ignorance of the problems of developing countries. The interconnections of the modern world economy leave no doubt that actions to solve them should be supported by the global community and their solutions cannot be solved without global involvement.

Fair Trade, czyli Sprawiedliwy Handel – w kierunku zrównoważonej gospodarki rynkowej

Author(s): Magdalena Śliwińska / Language(s): Polish Publication Year: 0

The aim of this chapter is to explain the role of Fair Trade movement and market in transition towards a sustainable market economy. To achieve this goal, first the idea, definitions and aimsof Fair Trade are analysed. Second, on that basis the role of Fair Trade in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals is explored. Third, it is analysed in which way the Fair Trade certification schemes introduce on the market values important for sustainable development. And fourth, is explained how the sustainable business models of Fair Trade enterprises being the members of World Fair Trade Organization may contribute to sustainable transition. It is concluded that Fair Trade initiative plays an important role in transition towards sustainable market economy, introducing such values as responsibility, altruism and solidarity directly into the market in various ways. On the one hand, FairTrade organisations undertake social actions aimed at making the society, i.e. consumers and politicians,aware of global challenges and the possibility of counteracting them both through responsible consumer decisions and the creation of certain top-down regulations conducive to the realization of SDGs. On the other hand, the very existence of this market influences the awareness of all market participants, thanks to advertisements for Fair Trade products, showing what socially responsible production is all about, and what kind of problems are counteracted by sustainable business models like Fair Trade enterprises, or the use of Fair Trade product certifications.

Kompas dla Zmiany Systemowej jako koncepcja wdrożenia Europejskiego Zielonego Ładu w państwach członkowskich Unii Europejskiej

Author(s): Judyta Cabańska,Dorota Czyżewska-Misztal,Grzegorz Mazur / Language(s): Polish Publication Year: 0

The multi-dimensional European Green Deal strategy implemented in the European Union requires a systemic approach to achieve optimal results. One of the concepts offering a systemic approach to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals is the Compass for Systemic Change, which was developed in cooperation between Systemiq and the Club of Rome and published in 2020. The aim of the chapter is to discuss the concept of the Compass for Systemic Change by presenting its assumptions, the recommendations for actions contained therein and the assessment of the possibility of implementing a systemic perspective into activities undertaken in the European Union. Text analysis is applied in the chapter as a research method. The idea of the System Change Compass is to combine numerous and diverse activities to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, soas to take care of the future of our planet in the best possible way. This will not be possible without increased efforts from all stakeholders, taking into account the complexity of the entire process and the challenges that need to be faced.

Building a Sustainable Future by Implementing the Green Economy Concept in Bulgaria and Bulgarian Agricultural Sector

Author(s): Albena Miteva / Language(s): English Publication Year: 0

The concept of a green economy has gained significant traction as societies worldwide seek to balance economic growth with environmental preservation. Bulgaria, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse natural landscapes, stands at a crucial juncture in its development journey. By capitalizing on the nation's strengths and addressing its challenges, Bulgaria can forge a path toward economic growth while preserving its natural heritage for generations to come. Through collective effort, informed policies, and innovative practices, Bulgaria can serve as a shining example of a country committed to harmonizing economic advancement with environmental stewardship. Embracing a green economy offers Bulgaria the opportunity to foster sustainable growth, reduce environmental degradation, and enhance overall well-being. The transition to a Green economy allows Bulgaria to transform its own economy – from a low-efficiency and resource-intensive one to an economy based on knowledge, digitalization and green growth, generating high added value and guaranteeing long-term sustainability. The green economy concept centers on the integration of economic development, environmental protection, and social well-being. It emphasizes resource efficiency, the minimization of waste, and the shift towards renewable energy sources. A green economy is characterized by sustainable and environmentally friendly practices that promote economic growth while minimizing negative impacts on the environment. A green economy is an economic system that aims to reduce environmental risks and ecological scarcities while promoting sustainable development. It focuses on creating a balance between economic growth, environmental protection, and social well-being. In the context of agriculture, a green economy involves implementing practices that minimize negative impacts on the environment, conserve natural resources, and promote sustainable food production. It encompasses sectors like energy, transportation, industry, and agriculture, among others. The concept revolves around the efficient use of resources, reduction of pollution, and conservation of biodiversity. This approach aims to decouple economic growth from environmental degradation, promoting sustainable practices that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The successful transition to a green economy requires collaboration among government, businesses, and civil society, along with strategic investments and supportive policies. This report delves into the theoretical basis of a green economy, explores its pros and cons, identifies obstacles to its implementation, discusses challenges in the agricultural sector, highlights promising sectors, provides examples of green initiatives in Bulgaria, and on this basis offers guidelines for a more efficient transition.

Benefits of Managing Food Loss and Waste for Sustainable Rural Development in Indonesia

Author(s): Rosita Widjojo,Csaba Székely / Language(s): English Publication Year: 0

The reduction of food loss and waste (FLW) has become a global priority under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Reports from the United Nations and FAO reveal alarming statistics, with 13.3 percent of the world’s food lost post-harvest and 17 percent wasted at the consumer level. FLW is a problem found in both industrialized nations like the EU and emerging countries like Indonesia. While EU nations have committed to reducing per capita food waste by 2030, Indonesia has only begun addressing FLW. This paper explores the awareness and management of FLW in Indonesia, focusing on food recovery and redistribution strategies and their potential impact on rural sustainability development. It addresses FLW management through literature review with the aim of raising awareness to the urgency of FLW management and to support the circular economy in Indonesia. FLW is closely associated with consumer behaviour, and lessons from the EU suggests that supporting local farmers and improving the supply chain can help reduce FLW. The role of food recovery and redistribution in reducing FLW in Indonesia highlights the successful practices, emphasizing the transformation of „ugly food“ and the redistribution of excess edibles to combat FLW. Non-profit organizations in Indonesia have emerged to combat FLW by redistributing edible leftovers to those in need. Additionally, FLW recovery practices extend to agriculture, involving the reprocessing of unharvested agricultural products onto animal feed or organic fertilizers. These initiatives not only reduce waste, but also contribute to food security and poverty alleviation, especially in rural areas. The study concludes that addressing FLW in Indonesia can lead to increased food availability and sustainability. It recommends the development of national policies, programs, and partnerships to promote FLW management and the well-being of Indonesian communities. Further research is needed to identify specific challenges and opportunities for implementing food recovery and redistribution initiatives effectively. By taking concrete steps to reduce FLW, Indonesia can enhance food security and simultaneously align itself with the global sustainability agenda.