Xin, Y., Li, H., Sunday Adebayo, T., & Ayobamiji Awosusi, A. (2023). Asymmetric linkage between biomass energy consumption and ecological footprints in top ten biomass-consuming nations. Economic research-Ekonomska istraživanja, 36(3).
A recent research investigation, co-authored by Abraham Ayobamiji Awosusi from Near East University, undertook a comprehensive analysis of the impact of biomass energy utilization on the ecosystem across ten major biomass-consuming countries. The study, conducted between 1970 and 2018, utilized a sophisticated Quantile-on-Quantile approach to unravel the relationship between biomass energy usage and ecological footprint.
In a groundbreaking revelation, the research identified asymmetrical effects of biomass energy on environmental footprints. Specifically, it found that in six nations—Austria, Brazil, China, Germany, Sweden, and the United Kingdom—biomass utilization improved environmental quality, whereas in Finland, Italy, India, and the USA, it exacerbated ecological footprint, indicating a less eco-friendly impact.
Moreover, the Granger causality test detected a mutual predictability between biomass energy utilization and ecological footprint in nine nations, signaling a consequential interplay between the two factors. However, the absence of causality in India calls for a nuanced approach in understanding and managing biomass energy's ecological impacts.
This insightful study carries significant implications for sustainable development strategies, particularly in policy formulation. It stresses the importance of an inclusive approach to policy-making, emphasizing that singular focus on specific goals may hinder the achievement of broader sustainability targets. To mitigate environmental degradation caused by biomass utilization, the study advocates for a shift from traditional to contemporary biomass practices, emphasizing improved energy efficiency.
The research underscores the urgency for coordinated policies that prioritize environmental preservation while promoting renewable energy sources. Such policies should facilitate the transition to contemporary biomass technologies and regulate the exploitation of endangered biomass resources. Additionally, awareness programs promoting sustainable land use could help prevent further degradation of agricultural areas.
Given its regional focus, future studies could expand this research to a global scale, encompassing a more extensive sample size for a more comprehensive understanding of biomass energy's impact on ecosystems.
For further details, access the original paper from the publisher's link:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/1331677X.2022.2147567
