Browsing: O44

2016

The Management Of Energy Resources. Transforming Natural Resources Into Economic Goods

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Introduction. The management of energy resources, as a component of modern management, has become one of the most important pillars in the context of European energy policy, in order to have more competitive European companies, economies, and to a large extent – states.

Aim of the study. The purpose of this paper is to bring to attention the necessity to take steps forward to create a strong link between resources and development, which is essential if one state aims to create a sustainable and brighter future. A weak management of energy affects energy prices, emissions targets, and legislation, all of which lead to several compelling reasons why, at all levels one state should focus on saving energy: in businesses, public-sector/government organizations, and homes. The energy industry is one of the most capital-consuming industries in the world. Relatively higher energy prices place a drag on economic growth everywhere except in economies that are dominated by energy production. The Romanian main energy institutions, next to the Ministry of Energy, are acting to the improvement of energy efficiency, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, proceeding on maintaining the energy prices stable and the promotion of the renewable energy sources.
Keywords: management of energy resources, European energy policy, development, energy prices, emission targets, energy industry, Romanian institutions.
JEL Classification: O44, Q21, Q34, Q43, Q54.

2018

Bio-plastic – between current practices and the challenges of a sustainable future

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Introduction. In a globalized economy built on intensive consumption of natural resources and environmentally damaging actions, it is imperative to identify solutions that help to reduce pollution. In line with efforts to maximize the value of natural resources and minimize toxic materials in the environment, many countries have developed bio-economic strategies that contribute to the conversion of bio-basic raw materials to develop organic products (bio-plastic , bio-pharmaceuticals, green chemicals etc.). In Europe, there are already countries that have established bio-economic policies (Denmark, Finland, Germany, France, Scotland and the Netherlands), and an European strategy is already being discussed at EU level. Countries that are already implementing bio-economic principles are positioned as research and innovation centers for bio-products, green energy, bio-economic processes and services. In this context, bio-plastics play an important role due to their potential to contribute to improving the quality of the environment and, implicitly, the well-being of the planet’s inhabitants.

Aim of the study. The article aims to make a brief analysis of the importance and evolution of the field of bio-plastics at a globall and European level, trying to bring forth the best examples of good practice from countries that are already implementing such policies and whose economies are becoming more and more bio (green economies). In addition to being environmentally friendly, the bio-plastics sector also has an important potential to generate job growth, costs savings and natural resources etc.
Keywords: bio-economy, bio-plastics, sustainable development
JEL Classification: O1, O13, O33, O44