Renewable Energy's Impact on Greenhouse Gas Emissions in EU and Poland

Strategic Insights -

A new study analyzing the economic and environmental factors influencing greenhouse gas emissions in the European Union and Poland has shed light on the correlations between renewable energy and climate change mitigation. The research, conducted by investigators at the Silesian University of Technology, revealed significant trends and relationships between key determinants of greenhouse gas emissions. The study's findings have implications for EU climate policies, particularly in the context of the European Green Deal.

Key Takeaways:

  • The share of renewable energy in the European Union has increased, negatively correlating with greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Gross domestic product (GDP) and forest area have also shown a negative correlation with GHG emissions.
  • Final fossil fuel consumption and final energy consumption in industry and households were positively correlated with GHG emissions.
  • The strength of calculated relationships differed between the EU and Poland, indicating unique regional dynamics.
  • The study identified Poland's high dependence on coal and large share of heavy industry as factors influencing GHG emissions.
  • Conclusions were formulated for Poland's and the EU's climate policies, considering the European Green Deal.
  • The research involved statistical analyses, dynamic analyses, correlation analyses, and regression analyses to identify cross-sectoral determinants of GHG emissions in the EU.

Statistics:

  • The share of renewable energy in the European Union increased during the period from 1990 to 2023.
  • Gross domestic product (GDP) grew, contributing to a negative correlation with greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Forest area expanded, negatively correlating with GHG emissions.
  • Final fossil fuel consumption and final energy consumption in industry and households showed a positive correlation with GHG emissions.
  • The study analyzed data from 1990 to 2023, covering a period of significant economic and environmental changes in the EU.

Sources:

  • "Analysis of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Drivers In Poland and the Eu: Correlation and Regression-based Assessment." Sustainability, vol. 17, no. 10, 2025, p. 4345. DOI: 10.3390/su17104345
  • NewsRx. "New Renewable Energy Study Findings Have Been Reported by Researchers at Silesian University of Technology." Global Warming Focus, 23 June 2025, p. 199.