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This article addresses the issue of public support for the development of renewable energy and the assessment of this support from the perspective of farmers in Eastern Poland. Since it is a region characterized by a relatively high share of agriculture in the economy, a diversified structure of this sector, and at the same time, a region with a relatively high level of energy poverty, it can be considered a good example for illustrating the research problem. To achieve the goal, surveys were carried out covering 519 farms. Upon the consideration of a literature review and the research results of other authors, the collected opinions of the owners of these farms regarding the motivators encouraging them to invest in renewable energy technologies and the assessment of the role of the state in supporting energy transformation allowed for the formulation of conclusions. The research results indicate that renewable energy technologies are present in 47% of the surveyed farms, while in 36% of them, investments were financed from farmers' own funds. This means that the possibility of obtaining support from public funds is not a necessary condition for implementing renewable energy investments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dilemma of choosing between conventional energy and renewable energy sources is a topic of discussion in various economic and social sectors. This problem is not only a matter of the country's energy security but is also an important element of sustainable development that affects the functioning of future generations. The analysis of this process must cover all aspects of operation, with particular emphasis on tourism, including ski resorts. The aim of the work is to assess the current state of ski infrastructure in terms of the possibility of using green energy to power these types of devices, with an indication of the profitability of implementing this project. This analysis will cover the types of renewable energy sources and how they are used in winter sports resorts around the world, whilst additionally focusing on the energy structure of Poland and the European Union, as well as on energy transformation plans in Poland. An important aspect of this analysis is to understand the barriers to the development of the unconventional energy sector and the ski resorts themselves. The impact of ski resorts on the natural environment was also examined. When analyzing the profitability of introducing green energy to power ski slopes, the costs of traditional energy sources in a Polish ski resort were analyzed. The benefits of introducing green energy were indicated by comparing SWOT analyses of the Polish coal sector with renewable energy sources. In the economic context, the profitability of the proposed renewable energy installation was presented, using the NPV, IRR and payback period methods. The analysis of the cost structure of traditional energy sources allowed for the identification of a potential investment in renewable energy technologies, showing the share of electricity costs in the structure of energy carriers used on the ski slope. As a result, the profitability of the installation project was indicated as photovoltaic with specific power and parameters. Although the presented considerations refer to the realities and legal regulations applicable in one of the selected European Union countries—Poland, a country where energy from photovoltaic panels is developing the fastest among all renewable energy sectors in Europe—these considerations can be used in practice to indicate further directions and development prospects for other regions of the world. At the same time, the content of the considerations creates the basis for further development of research on these processes in order to popularize Poland's energy policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the impact of rail market liberalization on the energy intensity of rail in relation to the export of goods, as well as the identification of multidimensional cause-and-effect relationships between rail energy intensity and the importing country's economic condition, transport performance, and transport distance. Three research questions were formulated: (1) Does the liberalization of the EU transport market and the implementation of a sustainable transport policy contribute to minimizing the energy consumption of rail transport? (2) Does the pursuit of economic growth allow for reducing the energy intensity of goods exported by rail transport in global trade? (3) Is there a justified paradigm for shifting long-distance freight transport from roads to rail? This study concerned 21 directions of the export of goods transported by rail from Poland to partner countries (worldwide) in 2010–2020. A panel model of rail transport energy consumption with random effects was constructed. As a result of rail market liberalization, the export of goods transported by rail across great distances occurs without harming economic development and leads to a reduction in energy intensity. On this basis, key strategies were formulated to promote rail transport in reducing the energy intensity of the transport sector. The authors filled the research gap by identifying the relationship between the energy intensity of exports of goods by rail transport in value terms, depending on the European transport market's liberalization process, the importing countries' economic situation, transport volume, and distance. The presented approach is innovative and can be adapted to the analysis of other modes of transport, including road transport, and other countries (and their structure and export directions). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pressure of human activity in river valley environments has always been high. Even today, despite the increasing awareness of societies around the world regarding the need to protect water and biodiversity, there are concerns that the current river valley management systems are insufficient. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the state of knowledge about the soils and forest ecosystems of river valleys in terms of the possibility of protecting river valley environments. This study used data obtained from the Forest Data Bank (FDB) database, which focuses on forests in Poland. After analyzing 17,820 forest sections where the soils were described as fluvisols, it was found that forest areas associated with fluvisols (typical, fertile soils of river valleys) are quite well recognized and protected in Poland. Most (55%) forested fluvisols are located in Natura 2000 sites (an important European network of biodiversity hotspots), 4% in nature reserves, and 1% in national parks. Additionally, the main forest habitat type associated with fluvisols is riparian forest, composed mainly of Quercus, Ulmus, and Fraxinus, which is protected as Natura 2000 habitat type 91F0. Preserving the sustainability of the forest is also a form of soil protection. Despite the identification of soils and forests in river valleys, as well as appropriate legal tools, their protection may be ineffective due to the fragmentation of forms of protection and the lack of a coherent system for managing river valleys. Because the conservation status of the river valleys is also influenced by the management of areas located outside the river valleys, in order to protect river valley ecosystems, integrated conservation plans for entire catchments should be implemented. Due to potential conflicts related to the management of areas with diverse expectations of local communities, it would be advisable for such plans to be created by local experts but under the supervision of a specialist/specialists from outside the area covered by a given river basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development and advantages of renewable energy technologies mean that their areas of application are constantly expanding. The development of roads, transport systems, and electromobility also increases the demand for electricity. Roads occupy a certain area that could be used to install wind turbines or photovoltaic systems that could be used to power, among others, electric vehicle charging stations and road technical infrastructure facilities (travel service areas, tunnel lighting, road signs). There are many examples around the world where such solutions have been used. This critical review of existing solutions and the possibilities of their application in new places may contribute to further development and research in this area. Particular attention was paid to the possibility of using renewable energy systems in Poland, which can be successfully transferred to other countries with a similar climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The material developed focuses on the analysis of energy efficiency trends in Poland, utilising ODEX indicators for the sectors of industry, transport, households and in general, from 2011 to 2021. The objective of the study is to assess the progress made in energy efficiency and to forecast future trends in these sectors. The methods employed are based on statistical modelling of time series, taking into account sector-specific energy consumption dynamics. The following techniques were employed: linear regression, cluster analysis to identify patterns of change, statistical hypothesis testing for energy efficiency and simplified autoregressive models. The results demonstrated significant improvements in energy efficiency in the industrial sector, stability of the ODEX indicator in the transport sector and gradual improvements in households and overall. The prediction indicates an upward trend in the ODEX indicator in the short term, suggesting an increase in energy demand. However, it also predicts a decline in the long term, which may indicate the effectiveness of future energy efficiency strategies and investments. Consequently, the necessity for continued efforts to increase energy efficiency and further research into the factors influencing energy efficiency in different economic sectors is emphasised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at determining the concentration and possibility of migration of potentially harmful elements (PHEs) in soils and mining and metallurgical waste in the Silesian-Cracow region. Our research was carried out in selected locations of Ruda Śląska, Świętochłowice, Bytom, and in the Olkusz region (Bukowno) in southern Poland. The concentrations of metals (e.g., Ag, Ba, Ca, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Pb, Sr, Zn), metalloids (As, Sb), and sulphur were determined in 33 soil samples (with a depth range of 0.0–0.3 m) and 12 slag samples. These studies show an increased concentration of metals, metalloids, and sulphur, exceeding the level of regional geochemical background. The research results indicate that the degree of the chemical transformation of soils in the analysed regions of Ruda Śląska, Bytom, and Bukowno is advanced. This highlights the high concentrations of most metals, i.e., arsenic, antimony, and sulphur, in the surface layer of soils (topsoil) due to historic Zn-Pb ore mining and Zn and Fe metallurgy. The presence of both primary and secondary metal sulphides, sulphates, carbonates, oxides/hydroxides, silicates, and aluminosilicates was found in the mineral composition of soils and slags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of people suffering from diabetes, including type 1, is constantly increasing both in Poland and worldwide. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by uncertain prognosis and relapses, as well as permanent, irreversible, and progressive changes in health status. The ongoing disease results in dysfunction or disability, and the patient requires specialized supervision, care, and rehabilitation. However, the success of therapy does not depend solely on the perfection of treatment, but also on the patient's readiness to change their lifestyle and cooperate with the therapeutic team. The patient's constant alertness in making therapeutic decisions does not always lead to expected treatment results, and the risk of hypoglycemia associated with intensive insulin treatment depletes the patient's motivation for treatment, leading over time to the development of 'therapeutic burnout' and psychiatric disorders. This narrative review is an attempt to summarize the knowledge and possible future solutions in diabetes type 1 in Poland as well as highlight the importance of comprehensive care, including psychological care, which appears fundamental in a chronic disease such as type 1 diabetes. Therefore, the aim of the study was to present generational changes and psychosocial problems of patients with type 1 diabetes and to identify urgent challenges in diabetic care. Attention should be paid to the deteriorating mental condition of the young generations, who, in the course of diabetes, are exposed to additional psychological and psychiatric health problems. The next generation of patients will require more psychological care, which is why the challenge of the future is to create psychodiabetology centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy sources (RESs) offer key transformative potential from a societal point of view due to their modularity and ability to generate energy at the local level, allowing for the development of grassroots democratic and participatory initiatives. The paper aims to share insights into the processes of creating RES cooperatives in Poland. One of the first cooperatives to be established in the Upper Silesian region in Poland was the energy cooperative (EC) "Our Energy". This study presents an in-depth empirical analysis of a community-based renewable energy cooperative. The study employed a case study methodology, including a SWOT analysis framework, to describe the research subject and identify its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Key findings indicate that members benefit from stable energy prices and full recovery of the energy produced, and the cooperative is at the forefront of energy-sharing practices that minimize costs through direct transactions with the local municipality. The strategic goals of the EC focus on expanding membership, increasing the number of photovoltaic installations, implementing energy balancing, combating energy poverty, and reducing emissions. Challenges such as financial constraints and a lack of real-time monitoring of energy distribution are acknowledged, and carbon footprint reduction innovations and stakeholder engagement are highlighted as forward-looking approaches. The study highlights the role of cooperatives as a model for community-led sustainable energy initiatives. However, the study acknowledges the limitations of its small sample size, suggesting the need for broader research to understand the impact of collaborative energy on decarbonization. Future research directions are proposed, focusing on the long-term sustainability and socioeconomic impacts of energy cooperatives. This study contributes to the scholarly discourse on renewable energy cooperatives by offering insight into their potential to bridge the gap between energy producers and consumers and support sustainable community development. The main novelty of this paper lies in its detailed examination of a specific renewable energy cooperative, incorporating SWOT analysis, stakeholder perspectives, quantitative assessments, and a forward-thinking approach. This multifaceted analysis contributes to the existing literature on renewable energy initiatives, providing a valuable reference for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rail is the most efficient and low carbon means of transport, but efforts are still being made to improve the energy efficiency of this sector. In Poland, one of the elements of the implementation of the energy transformation in rail is the "Green Railway" program, which assumes an increase in the share of renewable energy sources (RES) in the power supply structure of the sector to 50% in 2025 and 85% in 2030, and ultimately, to 100%. An increase in energy efficiency leads to a reduction in financial costs, and also contributes to improving the environment and, consequently, to enhancing the economic and social benefit through a cost–benefit analysis. Energy consumption in railway operations is characterized (unlike in construction) by being repetitive. This energy consumption is produced in four areas: in the movement of trains; in auxiliary systems in the trains; in auxiliary systems in the infrastructure (lighting consumption of tunnels or sections of track, point heating systems, the signaling and communication systems, etc.); and in stations, workshops and by other consumers. The aim of this article was to review modern technologies using renewable energy sources in rail transport for traction and non-traction customers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the face of global challenges related to climate change and sustainable development, comparing attitudes and infrastructure in the field of electromobility and renewable energy sources in different countries becomes crucial. The question of differences and similarities between Poland and Germany in these areas sheds light on the unique challenges and opportunities that the two countries present to each other. The aim of the study is to understand these dynamics, which can contribute to the shaping of more effective policies and strategies for green energy and sustainable mobility. This study was conducted through a review of Polish and foreign literature, the use of the method of tabular comparisons, and the analysis of a questionnaire that was used. These complex methods combined both quantitative and qualitative analysis, which allowed for an in-depth understanding and comparison of attitudes and infrastructure related to electromobility and renewable energy sources in Poland and Germany. The study revealed significant differences and similarities between Poland and Germany in terms of electromobility and renewable energy sources. Germany shows a higher level of urbanization, a higher share of electric car ownership, and better charging infrastructure, while in Poland there is a strong belief in the key role of renewable energy sources. These findings may have implications for future green energy initiatives and policies in both countries. The study presents a complex picture of electromobility and renewable energy sources in Poland and Germany, showing clear differences in awareness, infrastructure, and attitudes. Germany seems to be more advanced in these areas, while Poland shows a strong commitment to renewable energy sources. These conclusions do not exaggerate the differences, but underline the need for a case-by-case approach to green energy strategies in both countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of the energy sector from the micro perspective that relates to individual companies is much rarer than a macroeconomic analysis that concerns the power industry as a whole and its impact on the functioning of the economy. However, energy companies directly implement the government's energy policies and innovation strategies. Thus, this article attempts to answer the question concerning the relationships in three large energy companies operating in Poland (1) between the use of renewable resources for production and the innovative nature of a company, (2) between the use of renewable energy sources and the standing on the stock exchange and profitability. This study used multiple case studies, financial analysis indicators, a time series analysis, and an interdependence analysis. This study covers 2011–2022 and allows consideration of long-term changes in domestic energy policy. Our findings suggest that there is a relationship between a company's investment activity and the use of renewable energy sources. Unfortunately, the scope of the use of RESs in these companies is small (from ca. 1% to 15%, which demonstrates the low progress of green transformation) and has negative correlations with the investors' assessment and profitability. In relation to innovation, the ratio of intangible assets to total assets was the highest for Tauron SA, increasing from 1.96% to 5.16%. Its material commitment to innovation is distinguishable from the other two companies. This is also the company with the highest share of RESs in energy production. The second place belongs to Enea SA with its ratio of intangible assets to total assets that increased from 0.72% to 1.69%. The ratio was lowest for PGE SA, increasing from 0.37% to 1.47%. The results and standing of the analyzed energy companies are strongly affected by energy policy amendments, including the improved status of coal and the re-oriented use of RESs (prioritizing solar energy over wind). As a result, these companies, despite the twelve-year period of the implementation of green transformation in the European Union, have achieved little on the path to sustainable energy. Therefore, achieving the goal of a zero-emission economy seems unlikely, since the renewable energy mix is still very slight and not diversified. Changes in energy policy are also not conducive to sectoral and economic innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural biogas plants are a renewable source of energy and at the same time enable the disposal of biodegradable waste generated in agriculture and the food industry. In Poland, a program aimed at constructing agricultural biogas plants has been in operation since 2010 with the goal of producing 1.7 billion Nm3 of biogas, which has not been achieved. Factors that could influence the development of this energy source were identified based on a register of agricultural biogas producers from the National Agriculture Support Center and data from the Energy Regulatory Office. These factors are technology, substrates, state energy policy, profitability, population density in the commune and the spatial arrangement of the commune resulting from spatial development plans. A pairwise comparison analysis using the DEMATEL method was conducted for these factors. It allowed us to conclude that they are population density and the lack of local spatial development plans in most rural areas. The situation may be improved by the obligation to develop such plans for the entire area of each commune and by locating biogas plants near livestock farms and agri-food processing plants. The selected DEMATEL method is mature and comprehensively verified. It enables research to be carried out in other contexts, taking into account the correlations between factors. It is a universal method, and after collecting expert opinions, research can be expanded. The obtained results of the analysis will allow for further research by collecting the opinions of experts such as biogas plant users, local communities, local government officials and other stakeholders. In addition, further analysis of key factors will be carried out using the DEMATEL method for several scenarios. The PESTEL method will be used to identify key factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary aim of this study was to assess the investment activity of basic local government units in the development of renewable energy sources co-financed by EU funds depending on CO2 emissions and other socio-economic conditions in terms of regions of Poland in the years 2007–2020. Empirical studies aimed at the verification of the research hypothesis that "the greatest investment activity in local projects co-financed from EU funds related to the development of renewable energy sources is observed for local government units in regions with highest CO2 emissions". Empirical studies were conducted based on data from the Ministry of Investment and Economic Development in Poland, the Local Data Bank, and the National Centre for Emissions Management. Thus, the conducted analyses provide both cognitive and applicatory values for the establishment of an appropriate energy transition policy in individual regions of Poland, which may be implemented by local government authorities within the current financial framework. Data concerning CO2 emissions at the regional level were estimated by applying the original disaggregation method as modified by the authors, which made it possible to fill the research gap resulting from the lack of data on emissions at the regional level. In order to show the regional diversification in investment activity of local government units in terms of renewable energy sources, its multi-faceted analysis was conducted by applying the Ward method. Clusters of regions with similar investment activity of local government units were described based on characteristics included in the typological classification (so-called active characteristics) and selected indexes showing CO2 emission levels, as well as selected socio-economic indexes (so-called passive characteristics). Based on the empirical studies, the research hypothesis presented in this paper was negatively verified. Considering both multiannual financial frameworks, the EU financial support for the development of renewable energy sources was used primarily by local government units of a predominantly agricultural character, and less advanced in terms of their development but exhibiting conditions conducive to renewable energy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growing population, technological progress and economic development result in a constant increase in energy demand. Energy is mostly obtained from fossil energy resources such as coal, natural gas, and crude oil. Burning them leads to air pollution with greenhouse gases (CO2, CH4, NH3 and N2O) and dust (PM2.5 and PM10). They are recognized as the cause of global warming and air pollution. Wind, water, solar and biomass energy are used to eliminate harmful emissions. The latter may come from special plant crops or from biodegradable waste from farming, animal husbandry, the agrifood industry and households. These wastes are transformed into biogas in biogas plants, the basic ingredient of which is methane. Most often, biogas is burned in a cogeneration process, providing electricity and heat. After purification of admixtures, it can be injected into the high-methane gas network or converted into hydrogen in the steam reforming process. In this way, environmentally harmful waste becomes a raw material for energy production, which is an example of a circular economy. The article discusses the functioning of biogas plants in selected EU countries. The current biogas production in Poland was assessed and compared with the production potential of dairy farms. The aim of this article was to show that the production of biogas reduces the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and the electricity produced from it is not burdened with the cost of purchasing CO2 emission allowances applicable in the EU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of the authors' research on the share of energy costs in revenues and their impact on the profitability of companies. This research was inspired by a large increase in energy prices in 2022. The authors analyzed the shares of energy consumption costs in production companies from various industries, using various sources: scientific literature, expert studies, and statistical data. Based on the results of these analyses, the authors simulated the impact of changes in energy prices on the profitability of companies. The research results are as follows: according to the authors, the share of these costs in the value of sales is much lower (several percent) than presented in various literature sources (a dozen or so, and even up to 30% in some cases). Despite this, however, the change in energy prices should significantly reduce profitability according to the simulations conducted by the authors. However, the financial reports analyzed by the authors show that profitability in many cases not only did not deteriorate, but revenues and profits increased in a large number of companies. In many cases, this can be explained by the actions taken by companies to reduce energy consumption costs and by increases in product prices. The authors' research also shows that if factors such as the specificity of the industry or the size of the company have an impact on energy efficiency, it is only to a small extent. The share of energy costs in sales and financial results, even within a given industry and in companies of similar size, varies greatly. The authors therefore believe that the effectiveness of the management of a given company has the greatest impact. Therefore, the results of the analysis differ significantly from the results of studies presented in the literature. Energy consumption data were analyzed using various literature sources from different countries. However, the main analyses conducted by the authors focused on Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The actions, decisions and behavior of consumers in a circular economy are defined as a circular consumption system. The circular economy is an alternative economic model to the linear model of production and consumption. This model is in line with the zero waste concept, which according to the Zero Waste International Alliance, is an ethical, economical, efficient and forward-looking concept in which consumer behavior includes buying products, caring for them and then recycling or reusing them. This is closely linked to adopting and committing to the circular business model of extending and reusing products. The aim of the study was to identify and describe consumer behavior and activities related to the zero waste concept. The analysis was conducted in the context of reusable products. The research was based on the CAWI method. The tool used to obtain the information was a structured questionnaire. The survey included 821 respondents from Poland, Slovakia and Ukraine. The survey shows that consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the consequences of consumption not based on choices with a positive attitude towards the environment. In addition, consumer sensitivity to environmental problems is growing. Growing consumer awareness and the promotion of healthy lifestyles by environmental organizations and movements are reversing unfavorable trends in favor of conscious consumption based on rational consumer choices, which translates into economic effects for households. The study found that the behavior of many respondents fits into the zero waste concept, implementing habits on a daily basis that are in line with sustainable consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy is a key driver of all modern economies. Sustainable development is playing an increasingly important role both at regional and local levels. It is a compromise between social and economic needs and the preservation of nature. In the policy of the European Union, the idea of sustainable development and environmental protection is of decisive importance for the implemented programs and economic activities. Contemporary challenges require the transformation of the energy market towards greater use of renewable sources. According to Directive 2009/28/EC of the European Parliament and European Council on promoting energy from renewable sources, Poland has committed itself to achieving a 23% share of renewable energy in gross final energy consumption by 2030. This goal considers total energy consumption in terms of power, engineering, heating, refrigeration, and transport. The aim of this paper was, firstly, an analysis of the share of renewable energy in the European Union over an 18-year period (2004–2021), with particular emphasis on the position of Poland. The second objective was the analysis of renewable energy at the local level in Poland, i.e., at the local government unit (LAU) level. Changes in the share of renewable energy in Poland compared to other European countries were also examined. The study utilized functional analysis of principal components and cluster analysis based on the data from the Central Statistical Office and EUROSTAT. The study found that while Poland does not differ significantly from other countries in using renewable energy, it does fall below the European average. Principal component analysis suggests that Poland responds adequately to European changes in the share of renewable energy in total energy consumption. This dynamic is stable (over 95% explained by the first component) and applies to most countries surveyed. In addition, the authors sought to answer questions relating to the current status of renewable energy sources in Poland, the barriers and challenges facing the introduction of renewable energy in the country, a comparative analysis of Poland's progress in renewable energy with other global counterparts, and an exploration of the future prospects and potential for the development of renewable energy in Poland. The study found that the potential for renewable energy is greatest in the northern areas of Poland, with photovoltaics and wind power plants providing the greatest capacity. Poland's renewable energy potential is very high and will be determined by technological development, political, economic, and social issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The V4 countries (Poland, Slovakia, Czechia, Hungary) hold significant importance within the European Union, contributing nearly 20% of the EU's arable land and 10% of its crop output from 2018 to 2020. The study focuses on companies as organizational entities engaged in arable crop production, representing a specific segment of agricultural producers. The objective is to analyze the concentration and financial performance of these companies in the V4 countries during the period 2018–2020. Financial data from 822 companies in Hungary, 226 in Slovakia, 17 in Czechia, and 967 in Poland were processed from the EMIS database (Emerging Market Information System). In Poland and Czechia, a significant proportion of the companies were classified as micro-enterprises, while in Hungary and Slovakia, they were predominantly small farms. The Gini index indicates a high concentration of Polish farms, a medium concentration of Hungarian and Slovakian farms, and a low concentration of Czech companies. In terms of financial profitability, Hungarian and Polish companies are the most favorable, while Slovak farms are the least favorable. Polish companies exhibit significant heterogeneity, which may also be attributed to high concentration. The results suggest that higher financial profitability is associated with a lower debt rate in the capital structure. Based on the examined sample, there is no close relationship between farm size and financial efficiency in the case of companies engaged in arable crop production in the V4 countries. This study also found that as farm size increases, the profit (EBIT) tends to increase, but the magnitude of this effect varies among the companies in different countries. The study's findings also support that other factors play a role in the development of profitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the waste management sector had to face new challenges, e.g., changes in the size and composition of the waste stream, or the presence of potentially infectious waste. This article is based on a case study in Poland. The data analysis showed that the increase in municipal waste mass during the pandemic did not differ from statistics observed in previous years and ranged from 0.3 to 0.5 million tons per year. Lifestyle changes caused a decrease in the amount of waste generated outside households. Social migrations contributed to rapid changes in the mass of waste generated in selected agglomerations by up to 80 kg/capita. In the waste stream, significant amounts of specific groups of waste related to the pandemic ("corona waste") as well as packaging and food waste were noted. Despite the pandemic, in 2020, Poland recorded an increase in selective waste collection by 6.7 percentage points (pp.) Data on municipal waste management showed an increase in the mass of waste sent for recycling by 0.7 million tons, while the mass of landfilled waste decreased by 0.3 million tons. The observed positive changes in waste management allow the implementation of sustainable development assumptions to a greater extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poland, which has been a European Union member since 2004, has undertaken compliance with its commitments to increase its share in the generation of energy from renewable sources. The target set for 2020, which is to attain a share of 15 percent of the gross final consumption of energy coming from renewable sources, has been met by Poland. The new targets for 2030, incorporated in the draft the Energy Policy of Poland 2040, assume an increase to at least 23 percent of the proportion of energy obtained from renewable sources in the gross final energy consumption. On the basis of data from the Central Statistical Office, the authors of this work analysed the changes in electricity generation based on renewable energy sources. In the period of 2004–2021, it was stated that the percentages of individual renewable sources constitute 43.7% for wind energy, 35.3% for solid biofuels, 14% for hydropower, 4.2% for biogas, 2.5% for solar energy, and 0.3% for other sources (municipal waste and liquid biofuels). In addition, this work indicates the maximal relative changes in production and the maximal changes in the portion of production, in addition to the annual and periodic rate of changes in the production of these energy sources in Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article overviews Poland's current electric vehicle infrastructure development. It discusses market segmentation and the analysis of charging standards, connectors, and types of charging. The paper focuses on Poland's charging infrastructure, including costs and charging times for popular electric vehicle models in 2022. It highlights the challenges faced by charging operators and the barriers to infrastructure development. The article also presents the outlook for the electric vehicle market in Poland until 2025 and 2030. Furthermore, it examines private charger development, particularly in prosumer households with renewable energy sources. The implementation of smart charging and the potential for vehicle-to-grid technology in Poland are addressed. Lastly, a comparative analysis of incentives for electric vehicle users in Poland and Norway is discussed in the context of achieving 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 31 December 2035, in Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article concerns the identification of connections between the energy intensity of rail transport and spatial integration (convergence processes in the EU and spatial proximity) and the economic situation of countries that are in international export–import trade relations. Three research questions are formulated in the article: (1) Does the improvement of the economic situation of the importing country reduce the energy intensity of the Polish export of goods by rail transport to the partner country? (2) Does EU integration contribute to reducing the energy intensity of the export of goods by rail transport? (3) Is there a positive spatial effect (convergence) of reducing the energy intensity of the export of goods by rail transport? This study concerned 14 geographical destinations (export destinations from Poland) during the years 2010–2020. A comprehensive study of convergence was used by building a spatial (club) and type β convergence model and using an unconventional method (panel stationarity analysis). It has been verified that there is a convergence in the energy intensity of goods exportation by rail transport in EU countries. The rate of spatial (club) convergence is 8.66% per year, while the period after which this convergence will be halfway between the initial state and the long-term equilibrium point is 8 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the conditions behind energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in Poland following its accession to the European Union. The study analyzed some energy, fossil fuel, economic, and environmental indicators, such as energy use, CO2 emissions, driving factors, decoupling elasticity status, and decoupling effort status. It relied on the Kaya identity and Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) in determining the drivers of CO2 emissions. As shown by the results, between 2004 and 2020, energy consumption in Poland grew at an average annual rate of 0.8%, while fossil fuel carbon emissions declined at 0.7% per year. Energy intensity was found to be the key force behind the reduction in CO2 emissions, whereas rapid economic growth was the main driver of CO2 emissions. While other factors, i.e., carbon intensity, energy mix, and population, also contributed to reducing the emissions, they had a much smaller—if not marginal—effect. In turn, the decoupling elasticity analysis showed that Poland mostly witnessed strong decoupling states, which means a strong decoupling of CO2 emissions from economic growth. Furthermore, it follows from the decoupling effort analysis that strong decoupling effort statuses prevailed throughout the study period, suggesting that the changes in the considered factors significantly contributed to reducing CO2 emissions. However, both the decoupling elasticity indices and the decoupling effort indices revealed the presence of an adverse trend. The above means that Poland witnessed a decline both in the strength of decoupling CO2 emissions from economic growth and in the efficiency of policies and measures designed to reduce CO2 emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More and more attention is paid to the circular economy (CE) and indicators that enable the monitoring and verification of the progress of transformation at various levels (the European Union, countries, regions, companies, etc.). Many analyses of CE indicators for different levels have been presented in the literature, but the benefits of their implementation and their limitations have not been discussed individually. The aim of the work is to identify and verify, based on the research conducted, CE indicators relating to sustainable production, along with their advantages and limitations. The article presents the selection process as well as the potential benefits and limitations of using indicators to assess the transformation towards a CE as identified for the Polish economy. The practical aim is to apply the indicators identified to different sectors of the economy. An important element of the work is the proposal for the process of selecting CE indicators that monitor the CE transformation based on their advantages and limitations, taking into account the goals and obligations set out in the main strategic documents of Poland and the EU, the process of consultations with industry, and the structure of the economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transport costs are strongly influenced by fuel prices and fuel consumption in transport, i.e., energy efficiency. The aim of the article is to present the problem of energy efficiency in freight transport with the use of Heavy Duty Vehicles (HDV). The authors presented the factors of energy efficiency in road transport, energy efficiency of the road vehicles, the share of fuel costs in the total costs of transport companies and the relationship between the increase in fuel prices and the increase in transport rates. Research methods include, apart from literature analysis, interviews conducted in Polish transport companies in 2022 and the analysis of data collected by the authors on the transport services market over the last 20 years. The increase in rates over the last 20 years, until 2021, largely coincided with the increase in fuel prices, while in 2022, for the first time in this period, the increase in fuel prices was greater than the increase in rates. However, the prices for transport services increased with the increase in energy consumption costs, not with changes in fuel prices. The cost of energy consumption depends on the efficiency of its use, which is constantly increasing, although to a small extent. Research shows that the efficiency of fuel consumption in high-tonnage transport changes at a rate of 0.8–1% per year while the proportion of fuel costs in Polish transport companies transporting goods by road in the last 20 years oscillates between 29% and 46%. There was also an increase in the freight rates on this market, in most cases by over 30%. Despite this, however, the profitability of some companies deteriorated. A large increase in transport rates, compensating for the increase in fuel prices, applies mainly to transport companies whose strategy is to compete with the quality of services, and when high-value loads are transported, while a small increase in transport rates, which does not compensate for the increase in fuel prices, applies mainly to companies whose strategy is to compete on the price of transport services and when low-value cargo is being transported. The results of research on the market in Poland conducted by the authors of the article agrees with the results and opinions of other authors and researchers from other countries. The authors also agree with the view that the possibilities of increasing the efficiency of energy consumption in road transport by the carriers themselves are limited. The road transport market, especially in Poland, is highly competitive, which results in high efficiency of transport processes. However, this efficiency is largely affected by factors beyond the control of these companies (technological factors, infrastructure and energy sources). It seems that the involvement of the state is necessary. The research carried out by the authors of the article also confirmed the existing relationships between the weight of the transported cargo and energy consumption identified by other authors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining biomass-fired power generation with CO2 capture and storage leads to so-called negative CO2 emissions. Negative CO2 emissions can already be obtained when coal is co-fired with biomass in a power plant with CCS technology. The need for bioenergy with CO2 capture and storage has been identified as one of the key technologies to keep global warming below 2 °C, as this is one of the large-scale technologies that can remove CO2 from the atmosphere. According to the definition of bioenergy with CO2 capture and storage, capturing and storing the CO2 originating from biomass, along with the biomass binding with carbon from the atmosphere as it grows, will result in net removal of CO2 from the atmosphere. Another technology option for CO2 removal from the atmosphere is direct air capture. The idea of a net carbon balance for different systems (including bioenergy with CO2 capture and storage, and direct air capture) has been presented in the literature. This paper gives a background on carbon dioxide removal solutions—with a focus on ecology, economy, and policy-relevant distinctions in technology. As presented in this paper, the bioenergy with CO2 capture and storage is superior to direct air capture for countries like Poland in terms of ecological impact. This is mainly due to the electricity generation mix structure (highly dependent on fossil fuels), which shifts the CO2 emissions to upstream processes, and relatively the low environmental burden for biomass acquisition. Nevertheless, the depletion of non-renewable natural resources for newly built bioenergy power plant with CO2 capture and storage, and direct air capture with surplus wind energy, has a similar impact below 0.5 GJ3x/t of negative CO2 emissions. When the economic factors are a concern, the use of bioenergy with CO2 capture and storage provides an economic justification at current CO2 emission allowance prices of around 90 EUR/t CO2. Conversely, for direct air capture to be viable, the cost would need to be from 3 to 4.5 times higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Every type of agricultural production is a burden for the natural environment. The paper's objective is to assess the energy use efficiency, GHG emissions, and provide an economic analysis of buckwheat production for Central Europe (Poland). The analysis and comparison involved two production systems: low-input and high-input ones. The experiment involved three varieties of buckwheat, Panda, Volma, and Mancan. The yields for analysis were obtained from the field experiment which was set up in 3k-p fractional design was applied in two replications in which at the same time five factors were tested (A—variety, B—mineral fertilisation, C—sowing rate, D—weed control, E—growth regulator). A quartile was used as a statistical tool to select production systems. A high-input buckwheat production regime required, on average, 74.00% more energy than a low-input system. The total mean energy input for three varieties ranged from 7532.7 to 13,106.9 MJ ha−1 for low- and high-input systems, respectively. The results show that the energy use efficiency, specific energy, and net energy gain for the low-input system were on average 1.51, 9.6 MJ kg−1, and 3878.8 MJ ha−1, respectively, for the investigated varieties. For the high-input system, it was 1.35, 10.9 MJ kg−1, 4529.9 MJ ha−1, respectively. The total CO2 equivalent emissions during buckwheat production were higher for the high-input system than for the low-input system by more than 40%. The economic analysis demonstrated that the high-input system had better economic efficiency (without EU payment), 1.01 on average, than the low-input system, 1.07 on average. The international literature does not offer research on energy analysis for the production of common buckwheat and GHG emissions. The findings of this study demonstrate how the production systems affect energy and economic efficiency as well as GHG emissions. The authors suggest further research in Europe and globally, particularly on the energy use efficiency and GHG emissions in the production of common buckwheat, to verify the present results and improve production technologies (reduce inputs and costs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition to a climate-neutral economy presents a particular challenge for the areas where the economy is based on rich lignite resources. One of them is the Bełchatów Basin Area in Poland. The complexity of the phenomena occurring in the area of transformation requires an interdisciplinary and integrated approach to development planning and managing. It is important to create stable conditions, allowing for the introduction of necessary changes, including the involvement of various stakeholders. The research is aimed at identifying the challenges faced by the region with a lignite-based economy, the inhibitors of the transformation process, and recommendations for public policy. During the research, secondary and primary data were analysed with the use of triangulation, which allowed to combine various techniques and sources, as well as an in-depth description and multi-faceted understanding of the case under study. The study poses a key question as to whether the public authority is capable of implementing the energy transition that would protect the global public interest. The conducted research showed deficiencies negatively affecting its implementation. There are barriers affecting cooperation in the public sphere and with other stakeholders. An analysis of the limitations in cooperation showed the dysfunction of energy policy implementation at the regional level. Vertical and horizontal actions between different stakeholders of the transformation are necessary to identify seed industries representing a transformational opportunity in the Bełchatów Basin. Renewable energy sources may play a key role in this process. Their share in electricity production should be increased. A clear and precise vision of the development of this territory, as well as a stable and diversified system of financing are important elements of change. The article draws attention to the lack of a transformation leader. Identifying an actor responsible for the protection of the global public interest is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to test the applicability of forecasting in the analysis of the variability of prices and supply of wood in Poland. It relies on the autoregressive integrated model (ARIMA) that takes into account the level of cyclic, seasonal, and irregular fluctuations and the long-term trend as tools for the assessment of the predictions of the prices of selected medium-sized wood assortments. Elements of the time series were determined taking into account the cyclical character of the quarterly distribution. The data included quarterly information about the supply (amount) and prices (value) of wood sold by state forests in the years 2018–2022. The analysis was conducted for the most popular assortments: logging slash (M2, M2ZE), firewood S4, and medium-sized wood S2AP. In the period studied (years 2018–2022), the average rate of price variation was widely scattered. The average rate of price variation for the M2ZE assortment amounted to 7%. The average rate for M2 assortment was 1%, while the medium-sized S2AP assortment displayed the greatest variation of 99%. This means that between 2018 and the present, the price increased by nearly 100%. No major fluctuations were observed for the S4 assortment and its average rate of variation amounted to 0%. The analysis found seasonal variation was observed only for S4 firewood, the price of which went up each year in October, November, and December. For this reason, the forecast was made with the seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) version of the model. It is difficult to forecast the price of wood due to variations in the market and the impact of global factors related to fluctuations in supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analyses presented in the publication allowed, on the basis of the data collected, development of an econometric model for the Polish steel industry from the point of view of the relationship between heat and energy management in the steel production process. The developed model is the main novelty of the paper. The main objective of the study was to develop an econometric model of Poland's heat and energy economy. The following research questions were raised: Is there an econometric model describing heat consumption (intensity) in the steel industry in Poland in relation to steel production and the energy economy? What are the relations between heat intensity and energy prices and steel production in Poland? How might the current energy crisis affect steel production? In the analysis we used data of energy and heat management in the Polish steel industry. An econometric model was developed of the dependence of heat consumption (Yt) on electricity prices (X1t) and steel production (X2t) in Poland. The authors took advantage of open access to data. Annual volumes of heat consumption in steel production processes in Poland were analysed as a function of the annual volume of steel production and the prices of electricity, which are consumed in technological processes in steel mills. We analyzed data for years 2004–2020. The analyses carried out showed that there is an inversely proportional relationship between electricity prices and the intensity of heat consumption by the steel industry. Research shows that rising energy prices lead to lower steel production. This is a dangerous phenomenon for the steel industry in the context of the current energy crisis caused by the pandemic and war in Ukraine. We think that the significance of our results is connected with the fact that the developed model is a useful analytical tool, as it not only allows the analysis of historical data, but can also be used to predict how steel industry parameters will change in the future under the influence of changes in external factors, such as energy prices. This gives a wide range of analytical possibilities for the use of the model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to determine how the public perceives the directions of decarbonization to develop a sustainable energy strategy for Poland. The political challenge is to use dedicated funds and grants to move from the energy market to low-carbon technology. For sustainable development, governments must implement an environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and socially acceptable policy. The risk of social acceptance plays a vital role in Poland, especially in Silesia, influencing the decarbonization process. The study's main objective was to identify socio-economic features that affect the assessment of the decarbonization process in Poland, assuming that respondents used central or local funds to carry out this process. The authors deepened the multidisciplinary aspect of the analysis of decarbonization, mainly pointing to social issues, which was presented in the article. The study was conducted using the "snowball" method on a group of 444 socially diverse people. They were based on non-parametric statistical methods: Chi-square, Mann–Whitney U, and the Kruskal–Wallis test, which showed that the most effective factors in the decarbonization process are subsidies used by local governments. Moreover, it was found that people with higher education give less support to the centralization of funds for decarbonization, though they perceive that local funds provide a greater chance of success for decarbonization processes. This study fills the gap in social sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Very low air quality in the Warsaw conurbation, Poland, similarly to the case in many large European cities, poses a serious threat to the residents' health, being a significant source of premature mortality. Many results presented in earlier publications indicated local heating installations and car traffic as the main emission categories responsible for this adverse population exposure, where the dominant polluting compounds are NOx, PM10, PM2.5, and BaP. The last two mainly originate from individual household heating installations, both in the city of Warsaw and in its vicinity. To reduce the health risk of air pollution, the city authorities have recently made fundamental decisions, related to the individual housing sector, aimed at the radical decarbonization of all heating installations in Warsaw and its surroundings. On the other hand, the ongoing modernization of the city's car fleet (including individual and public transport), taking into account the restrictive EU emission standards, as well as the quickly growing share of electric and hybrid cars (BEVs and PHEVs), gives a good prospect of a fundamental improvement in air quality in Warsaw conurbation. The main subject of the paper is a quantitative assessment of the air quality improvement in the current decade (by 2030), resulting from the above modernization activities. The final results are expressed as the attributed reduction in population exposure, which was found to be 28–30% with respect to NOx and PM, and the associated health risk, i.e., 204 fewer avoidable deaths with respect to NOx and 607 fewer with respect to PM2.5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to present factors shaping biodiesel production in Poland influenced by the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) of the European Union (EU). The performance of Polish biodiesel producers was analyzed. A regression model was built to identify the factors that impacted biodiesel production in Poland. The Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN) was the main source of information about Polish biodiesel farmers. The FADN is the most comprehensive and detailed source of economic and agricultural data in Poland. Changes in the number of biodiesel producers in the Polish market were analyzed with the use of indicators. In the last stage of the study, the impact of selected variables on the performance of rapeseed farms was determined in a regression analysis. The second source of information was Eurostat data, which provided information about pure biodiesel production in the European Union (EU) countries from 2004 to 2019. The biggest producers of pure biodiesel in the European Union are Germany, France, Spain, and Italy. Poland is also an important producer of biodiesel in the European Union (EU). Both descriptive statistics and statistical analyses are presented. First, we used descriptive statistics to present changes in pure biodiesel production in the European Union. Second, we used statistical analyses to present factors shaping the economic performance of biodiesel producers in Poland. The study demonstrated that the number of rapeseed producers in Poland has increased and that farm performance has improved during the period analyzed. Rapeseed farms have increased their land area and the value of fixed and current assets. The land area under rapeseed cultivation has increased after Poland joined the EU, which suggests a positive response to a growing demand for biofuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wind farm market in Poland evolved very dynamically in the years 2000–2015. Unfortunately, the high public resistance caused the government in 2016 to freeze the development of this industry by introducing a restrictive act, which practically stopped the wind farm industry overnight. The climate aspects, such as reduction of the carbon footprint, which have been considered and widely discussed for several years at the European Union forums, were a chance to change this situation. The new regulations gave hope that the wind energy industry in Poland would soon be unblocked, unfortunately the commitment to coal was still an effective barrier, which is clearly visible in the presented study. The Russian aggression against Ukraine, which resulted in a blockade of hydrocarbon imports, has completely changed the center of gravity of the Polish energy and heating economy. The article focuses on the accelerated changes in the renewable energy sources (RESs) and the related legislation, especially emphasizing the prospect of building offshore wind farms. The huge European energy crisis means that new solutions, both legislative and technological, which will allow to quickly switch to green energy, must appear in Poland immediately. The direct conversion of green energy from RES farms into thermal energy in the planned investment in heat energy plants is discussed. This article also presents a broad view of new opportunities as well as the challenges and prospects that have recently arisen in the wind energy industry in Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Employment and the competencies of employees in the energy sector are coming into particular prominence in economies around the world. It is one of the few sectors positively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, a significant global change in the awareness of society occurred in favor of increasing pro-health and pro-environmental activities, which can be seen in the green transformation. Poland can also boast such changes in recent years, as evidenced by the dynamic development of renewable energy sources (boom for photovoltaics) and the increase in prosumption. Correlated with this is the increase in demand for employees with specific competencies, the so-called multi-competencies that are a compilation of technical, business, and soft and hard competencies, as well as interdisciplinary ones. The paper emphasizes the need to better adjust the education system to the real needs of the labor market in a turbulent environment with the use of the Sectoral Qualifications Framework in Energy, developed in cooperation with stakeholders from the industry. Therefore, the authors analyzed the employment structure in the energy sector in Poland, with particular emphasis on the factors and conditions of this structure and made an attempt to identify and create a competency profile of employees in this area. For the purposes of this article, two key research problems were formulated: What are the key competencies of employees in the energy sector? How is employment changing in this area? The following research hypothesis was also put forward: The transformation of the energy sector towards green energy affects the increase in employment in this area and the increase in the demand for soft competencies. The analysis was based on statistical data, reports, job advertisements, and a review of the results of empirical research to date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tele-dentistry is a rapidly growing field, especially in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, remote services are of increasing interest to both patients and dental personnel. They allow for reduced person-to-person contact and thus a reduced risk of transmission of the SARS-CoV2 virus. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the functioning of all areas of life, including dental treatment. The aim of the study was to assess the possibility of using tele-dentistry for dental services and analyse the attitudes of patients and dentists towards this solution. The period analysed was between March 2019 and February 2021 in five healthcare entities in Cracow in Central Europe. The study's retrospective analysis shows a positive attitude of patients towards tele-dentistry at every stage of treatment, from diagnosis through postoperative care, and a significant reluctance of dentists in the majority of dental specialties towards tele-dentistry. Consequently, a significant percentage of patients were invited to dental offices for a face-to-face appointment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The negative attitude of dental personnel towards tele-dentistry compared with the positive attitude of patients towards tele-dentistry is somewhat worrying in view of the possibility of a further pandemic. At the same time, it provides important information about the need to educate and support dental personnel in tele-dental solutions and improve solutions for the future. Taking into account the potential reduction in dental care costs for patients and countries after the implementation of tele-dentistry solutions, this is an important topic, while current studies do not comprehensively address the attitudes of patients and dental personnel towards tele-dentistry. In other parts of the world, a similar approach to tele-dentistry is used by patients and dentists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, woodchips and logging residues form the greatest share of biomass fuels used to generate heat in combined heat and power plants. They are supplied from various regions of the EU. The calorific values of the wood species used as biomass may vary significantly depending on the moisture and composition of the fuel, harvest seasonality, location, and other factors. This article presents the main resources of forest biomass and its characteristic features, as well as the calorific value of woodchips depending on the moisture content. Our research is based on the source data of forest resources from the State Forests National Forest Holding (PGLLP) in Poland. The research conducted by the main forestry enterprise in Poland covered a period of four years. The data on the harvesting of woodchips and logging residues converted into the calorific values of biomass were based on our research and a review of reference publications. Standard methods were used in the research, which included an analysis of the species and assortment structure of the forest biomass of energetic significance that was available for use. The research showed that the moisture content of the woodchips and lump wood was about 30%. The average annual energy value of the wood in the total area of forest resources was 0.07 GJ/ha, whereas the highest value was 0.14 GJ/ha. Between 2018 and 2021, the average energy resources of forest biomass in Poland increased from 351.8 TJ to 498.4 TJ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generation Z is gaining more and more importance in the market—not only is it attaining purchasing power, but it is also setting trends. This is the generation that spends a lot of time on various social media channels, and the content posted there is a source of information, inspiration and motivation for them. Its representatives are very skeptical about traditional marketing messages, so the best way to reach them is to use influencer marketing. They are also sensitive to environmental problems and ecology. For this reason, the purpose of this paper was to identify the possibility of using influencer marketing to promote green energy in the perspective of Generation Z in Poland. The CAWI method of research was carried out April–June 2022 on a sample of 533 people aged 18 to 26, selected using a quota method. The analysis used statistically significant structure indices (percentages) and measures of correlations between the variables. The results presented confirmed the enormous popularity of social media among the representatives of Generation Z, as well as the great involvement of young consumers in tracking the activity of influencers. More than half of the respondents indicated the usefulness of influencers promoting green energy, but at the same time the vast majority of them declared that the choice of green energy in their case was determined by the opinions of other people, and that the role of influencers was negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present day is marked by the economic expansiveness of societies and the adoption and adaptation of intelligent technologies. In this hyper-world, customers expect a personalized offer enhanced with customized service, which results in the introduction of sustainable and intelligent solutions—among other services. What becomes important is not so much the "Primum non nocere" of creation as much as the "go smart to the future" in creating. The smart logistics concept is a representation of this trend. The subject of the article is an analysis of the impact of the application of the smart idea in the field of sustainable development on changes in logistics in customer service at the last-mile stage. The source of this article is exploratory research of secondary sources, including books, articles, and reports, which has been subjected to a critical content analysis. The obtained results made it possible to design and implement an explanatory study of online-buying habits of people based on the CAWI (Computer Assisted Web Interview) methodology. The collected material has become the basis for the authors to indicate the applicability of smart logistics in the field of last-mile logistics, which can be used by researchers and training institutions in the field of professionalization of management of intelligent logistics processes in customer service at the last-mile stage. The last-mile service in logistics involves reaching the largest possible number of recipients, however, it has a negative impact on the natural environment, which, of course, contradicts the concept of sustainable development, including trends that are noticeable in the logistics market, customers, and in the law. Hence, it is important to look for solutions that allow us to achieve the appropriate level of customer service in the last mile, but at the same time, take care of the natural environment. The study was narrowed down to the Polish perspective due to the growing demand for last-mile logistics services. Moreover, Poland is still a country where the concept of sustainable development is not fully understood and used. The research allowed us to indicate the directions of development of the last-mile service processes by considering the technological innovations that may support the application of the concept of sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this article is to identify important factors that determine the strategy of the energy sector. It has been assumed that the determinants of this strategy are goals related to the energy security of a European Union member state and the reduction of environmental pollution and anthropogenic pressures. Therefore, this article uses the method of the strategic analysis of critical success factors (CSFs), applied to the energy sector. As the name implies, in this method, factors that determine energy strategies, relating to the economic, technological, political, social and ecological spheres, were identified. Poland served as a case study. Research was carried out by experts in the energy sector and people working with this sector in order to determine the significance of the most important CSFs related to the energy security strategy. This approach is based on an evolutionary approach to creating a security strategy. The proposed analysis is a new proposal for a sectorial analysis based on the application of benchmarking, taking into account, in particular, the current conditions for the development of the energy sector. Our findings indicate that: European Union countries have different energy strategies, resulting from an evolutionary approach. The member states of the European Union create individual solutions in the field of energy strategies, which are conditioned by many factors, the most important of which are the geographic and physical location of a country on the European continent, economic and social contexts, and environmental as well as political conditions. According to Polish experts, the key success factors in building an energy strategy stem mainly from the economic and political areas, followed by the technological area, while the environmental and social areas are the least important. The authors hope that the article will serve to popularize the use of CSFs in scientific research, which can then translate into improved government policies for the energy sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, one of the main directions of agricultural development in Poland is the pursuit of sustainable development, rational management of material resources, and striving for energy self-sufficiency, while maintaining low greenhouse gas emissions. It is an alternative to constantly supported coal solutions. Sustainable development in the sense of processes taking place in enterprises affects many key areas of their activity. One of them is the measurement of efficiency, another is the compatibility with nature and the environment, and the perception of humans and their role. Measures of enterprises' effectiveness should be considered in relation to the objectives of the enterprise. Biorefineries play a special role in shaping the new energy reality, being a system that connects various devices and biomass conversion processes to produce energy, fuel, and other valuable products. The essence of the functioning of biorefineries is as value chains; that is, a series of interrelated activities of specific importance and market value. The study aims to identify the determinants and efficiency of value chains in agricultural biorefineries according to the concept of sustainable development and the use of biomass resources in biorefining processes. Identifying and analyzing individual stages allows one to demonstrate the effectiveness of the implementation of technology using renewable energy sources, according to the concept of sustainable development and the implementation of the direction of the circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of energy production from renewable sources includes the production of energy from photovoltaic installations by prosumers. In Europe, RES development is driven by political goals and requires subsidies during the deployment period, at least as long as the cost of renewable electricity does not reaches grid parity. The study attempts to determine the importance of factors in the development of energy production by prosumers from PV installations in Polish regions. In 2019, the 'Moj Prad' program was introduced, applying subsidies to investment costs and the settlement of energy production in the net-metering system. Almost 900 thousand prosumer PV installations were built by the end of 2021, with a total capacity of 5.9 GW. Solar energy share grew from 0.1 to 2.1%. Spatial econometrics models were use in research to determine factors of prosumer PV systems development in Poland (at NUTS-2). Spatial regimes were found in the studied regions, as indicated by a positive autocorrelation (0.75). Considering the pseudo-R-square co-efficient, we can conclude that the spatial error, i.e., factors not included in the GNS model, constitutes approximately 10%. The economic variables included in the Mansky model, i.e., level of salaries and GDP, explain 90% of the variability of installed PV capacity (Nagelkerke pseudo-R-squared value is 0.906). The level of development of prosumer photovoltaic installations (in W per capita) in regions depends primarily on economic factors represented by the level of salaries in a given region. With the increase in salaries by one unit, we also have an increase in installed power capacity in watts per person by 3.52. Surprisingly, the region's overall wealth did not matter, as the relative number of installations in regions with lower GDP was higher than in others. One can explain that the individual income of households is more important for increasing the number of prosumer installations than the income of the regional economy. The increase in the number of installations in one region contributed to the subsequent increase in their number in neighboring regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this study was to conduct multi-stage and multi-variant prognostic research to assess the impact of e-mobility development on the Polish power system for the period 2022–2027. The research steps were as follows: forecast the number of electric vehicles (using seven methods), forecast annual power demand arising solely out of the operation of the forecast number of electric vehicles, forecast annual power demand with and without the impact of e-mobility growth (using six methods), forecast daily profiles of typical days with and without the impact of e-mobility growth (using three methods). For the purpose of this research, we developed a unique Growth Dynamics Model to forecast the number of electric vehicles in Poland. The application of Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) to the extrapolation of non-linear functions (to the forecast number of electric vehicles and forecast annual power demand without the impact of e-mobility growth) is our original, unique proposal to use the Artificial Neural Network (ANN). Another unique, innovative proposal is to include Artificial Neural Networks (Multi-Layer Perceptron and Long short-term memory (LSTM)) in an Ensemble Model for simultaneous extrapolation of 24 non-linear functions to forecast daily profiles of typical days without taking e-mobility into account. This research determined the impact of e-mobility development on the Polish power system, both in terms of annual growth of demand for power and within particular days (hourly distribution) for two typical days (summer and winter). Under the (most likely) balanced growth variant of annual demand for power, due to e-mobility, such demand would grow by more than 4%, and almost 7% under the optimistic variant. Percentage growth of power demand in terms of variation according to time of day was determined. For instance, for the balanced variant, the largest percentage share of e-mobility was in the evening "peak" time (about 6%), and the smallest percentage was in the night "valley" (about 2%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a necessity to combine the development of the European Union with a model of a sustainable economy, which is important to stimulate eco-innovation. The government of each member state is obliged to create support mechanisms that will encourage entrepreneurs to implement pro-environmental solutions. This requires the identification of determinants for eco-innovation. This paper identifies and compares conditions of eco-innovation in two sectors in Poland: ICT (information and communication technologies) and industry. Putting together many different types of conditions into one model (including government, science, industry, and ICT) allows us to explain what is more important when making a decision about implementing new eco-solutions. The study covered over 3000 enterprises. Stepwise logit regression was used to examine all relationships of interest. We discovered two separate (independent) paths of approach to eco-innovation for ICT and industry. This means that another condition should be fulfilled to reach any eco-innovation in each of the sectors. There are just a few factors supporting new environmental solutions in ICT with strong impact—cooperation with suppliers, journals as a source of new knowledge, or financial support by credit institutions with high materials and energy efficiency at the end of the process. Industry could be described more like a horizontal approach—a wide number of conditions with low impact on eco-innovation. Therefore, innovation policies in the catching-up country should be more sophisticated and take care of more relevant tools for both sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The last three years have been a period of many challenges related to the dynamically changing conditions of the economic environment. Among these many changes, some of the most important for the further functioning of private and public entities are those related to the instability of the energy market. Rapidly rising energy prices increase the costs of implementing public tasks. They also greatly increase the search for innovative, energy-saving and environmentally friendly ways of performing municipal tasks. The main aim of the article is to present the concept of a smart village as an instrument for the implementation of public tasks in rural areas. The theoretical basis of the smart village concept is the basic point of reference. The implementation of the assumptions of the smart village concept in Poland gives municipalities the possibility of an innovative approach to the implementation of local public services. In addition, examples of good practices implemented by rural local communities that can act as models for other groups of residents are also included. It was essential, from the point of view of measurable effects, to identify potential limitations and hazards in the implementation of the smart village concept, which may be identified in the outermost regions. Analysis and critical literature review were used to achieve the article's goals. These methods are characteristic for review publications. At the beginning, we presented the theoretical foundations of the smart village concept. Secondly, we indicated how the smart village concept contributes to the improvement in public service delivery in rural areas. The authors demonstrated that there is no universal model for each unit. A smart village will implement solutions tailored to economic, social, cultural, and natural conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simulation models of transport systems are a key tool for solving many problems in the field of management of these systems. The methodologies for creating such models use datasets on both transport infrastructure and demand for the delivery of goods or passenger transport, however, many factors are considered based on assumptions due to the complexity. This article describes the approach to modeling the cargo transportation system for road transport in Poland based on data obtained by the Central Statistical Office from the TD-E survey. This approach avoids many assumptions about demand as the demand parameters are estimated based on a sample representing the general population—a set of all economic entities generating freight traffic. Basic procedures in the developed approach have been implemented as Python scripts. As a result of the use of the proposed methodology, a country-wide road transport model was obtained based on the TD-E survey from 2018. The adequacy of the developed model was assessed based on the results of the General Traffic Measurement from 2015. The obtained model is of satisfactory quality (the coefficient of determination equals 0.62), which can be improved after calibrating the space resistance functions and improving the traffic distribution procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research undertaken in this article uses the Google Trends tool to study the degree of interest in prayer and general spirituality during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland and Europe. The authors assumed that for people interested in prayer during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Internet served as a virtual prayer book. The main research questions addressed the frequency of typed queries, referring not only to the word "prayer" but also to specific types of prayer. In addition, interest in prayer was compared with interest in the word "prophecy" to explore the relationship between religiosity and interest in the supernatural sphere in its broadest sense. The analysis shows that there is distinct recurrence regarding the terms searched, with some of them noticeably intensifying with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings also show that keywords related to prophecies were searched more frequently at significant moments in Polish history (2005—the death of John Paul II, 2010—the plane crash in which the President of Poland died) than in the months of 2020 when the pandemic struck and escalated. At that time, searches related to religion were more frequent. It can also be concluded that the outbreak of the pandemic contributed to an increase in the religious activity of Poles. The article is interdisciplinary in nature, referring primarily to Religion Studies and Mass Media and Communication Studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary fuels, i.e., crude oil, natural gas, and power coal, dominate the total global demand for primary energy. Among them, crude oil plays a particularly important role due to the universality of applications and the practical lack of substitutes in transport. Crude oil is also one of the main sources of primary energy in Poland and accounts for around 30% of the energy consumed. Poland covers only 3% of its needs from domestic deposits. The rest is imported from Russia, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Great Britain, Kazakhstan, and Norway. Due to such a high import of raw material, Poland must anticipate future demand. On the one hand, this article aims to analyze the current (2020) and future (2040) crude oil consumption on the Polish market. The study analyzes the geopolitical and economic foundations of the functioning of the energy raw-materials market, the crude oil supply, the structure of Poland's energy mix, and assumptions about the energy policy until 2040. On the other hand, conclusions from the research were used to build a model of crude oil consumption for the internal market. It has been also shown that the consumption of crude oil on the Polish market is a nonlinear phenomenon with a small set of statistical data, which makes it difficult to build an accurate model. This paper proposes a new model based on artificial neural networks that includes long-term memory (LSTM). The accuracy of the constructed model was assessed using the MSE, Theil, and Janus coefficients. The results show that LSTM models can be used to forecast crude oil consumption, and they cope with the nonstationary and nonlinear time series. Many important contemporary problems posed in the field of energy economy are also discussed, and it is proposed to solve them with the use of modern machine-learning tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing transformation of the Polish power sector have been shaped by a number of factors. In this article, both external conditions for the Polish energy market—such as the country's membership in the European Union—and internal ones—including domestic energy resources and demand for electricity, or the structure of the Polish economy—have been analysed. This study focuses specifically on the issue of development of clean generation technologies as these are fundamental to the energy-transition process. Its determinants have been examined empirically. To this end, econometric models have been developed using sectoral data from the Polish electric power industry. Improvements in technology have been measured as innovation inputs, that is, RD&D investments in environmental technologies. Explanatory variables encompass economic as well as institutional measures: energy price, environmental policy stringency, long-term interest rate, market concentration and protection of intellectual property rights. The findings obtained point to a positive impact of the variables named on the innovative activity in Poland, with the exception of market concentration, which was proven to be statistically insignificant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]