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Biological Resources for Renewable Energies in the European Union: A Hierarchical Approach

Author

Listed:
  • Emilia Mary Bălan

    (Institute for Advanced Environmental Research, West University of Timisoara, 300223 Timisoara, Romania
    Institute for World Economy, Romanian Academy, 050711 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Cristina Georgiana Zeldea

    (Institute for Economic Forecasting, Romanian Academy, 050711 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Laura Mariana Cismaș

    (Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, West University of Timisoara, 300223 Timisoara, Romania)

  • Marioara Iordan

    (Institute for Economic Forecasting, Romanian Academy, 050711 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Cristian Mihai Cismaș

    (Doctoral School of Economics and Business Administration, West University of Timisoara, 300223 Timisoara, Romania)

  • Melinda Petronela Costin

    (Doctoral School of Economics and Business Administration, West University of Timisoara, 300223 Timisoara, Romania)

Abstract

The bioeconomy is an essential framework for sustainable economic growth in the European Union (EU), leveraging biomass transformation into bioenergy, biofuels, and other high-value products. This study examines the socio-economic impact of bio-based electricity and liquid biofuels in EU from 2008 to 2021, focusing on employment, turnover, and value added at factor cost. Cluster analysis shows that EU countries are divided into four groups based on socio-economic outcomes in the bioenergy sector, highlighting significant differences between Western and Eastern Europe. Notably, countries like Germany, France, and Italy lead in bioenergy development, supported by robust policy frameworks, while several Central and Eastern Europe Countries (CEECs), face challenges in advancing bioeconomy sectors. The analysis also puts forward a socio-economic indicator of bioeconomy (SEIB), which highlights national differences and potential growth paths for the bio-based energy sector. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers to address regional inequalities and promote sustainable bioeconomic practices across the EU. The study underscores the need for consistent data collection to support future bioeconomy research and policy formulation.

Suggested Citation

  • Emilia Mary Bălan & Cristina Georgiana Zeldea & Laura Mariana Cismaș & Marioara Iordan & Cristian Mihai Cismaș & Melinda Petronela Costin, 2025. "Biological Resources for Renewable Energies in the European Union: A Hierarchical Approach," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(4), pages 1-25, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:4:p:1484-:d:1588792
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