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Urban–Rural Disparities in Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Fuel Consumption in Moldovan Households and Implications for Energy Policies

Author

Listed:
  • Rodica Siminiuc

    (Faculty of Food Technology, Technical University of Moldova, 168, Stefan cel Mare Bd., MD-2004 Chisinau, Moldova)

  • Dinu Țurcanu

    (Faculty of Food Technology, Technical University of Moldova, 168, Stefan cel Mare Bd., MD-2004 Chisinau, Moldova)

  • Anna Vîrlan

    (Faculty of Food Technology, Technical University of Moldova, 168, Stefan cel Mare Bd., MD-2004 Chisinau, Moldova)

Abstract

Climate change, driven by greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, poses a critical global challenge, with household energy use as a significant contributor. In the Republic of Moldova, stark urban–rural disparities in fuel consumption and emissions necessitate targeted research to inform effective energy policies. This study analyzes GHG emissions from household fuel consumption, focusing on the differences between urban and rural areas, using a quantitative approach guided by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) methodologies. The findings reveal that rural areas, heavily reliant on traditional fuels like firewood, contribute disproportionately to emissions compared to urban areas, where modern energy sources such as natural gas dominate. Nationally, the research provides critical data to shape energy transition strategies, promoting renewable energy adoption and energy efficiency in rural areas. Internationally, it offers a valuable case study on household emission dynamics in developing countries, contributing to the global understanding of energy use patterns and their environmental impacts. Recommendations include enhancing access to cleaner energy, modernizing infrastructure, and encouraging sustainable practices to align with Moldova’s commitment to GHG reduction goals and serve as a model for similar contexts worldwide.

Suggested Citation

  • Rodica Siminiuc & Dinu Țurcanu & Anna Vîrlan, 2024. "Urban–Rural Disparities in Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Fuel Consumption in Moldovan Households and Implications for Energy Policies," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(24), pages 1-14, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:24:p:10820-:d:1540718
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Dominik Wiedenhofer & Dabo Guan & Zhu Liu & Jing Meng & Ning Zhang & Yi-Ming Wei, 2017. "Unequal household carbon footprints in China," Nature Climate Change, Nature, vol. 7(1), pages 75-80, January.
    4. Alexey Mikhaylov & Nikita Moiseev & Kirill Aleshin & Thomas Burkhardt, 2020. "Global climate change and greenhouse effect," Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Issues, VsI Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Center, vol. 7(4), pages 2897-2913, June.
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