Determinants of Decarbonization—How to Realize Sustainable and Low Carbon Cities?

TLDR

Despite extensive research on decarbonization determinants, specific solutions remain scarce, underscoring the global importance of green governance in Poland and Europe. The study aims to identify determinants of decarbonization in Polish urban and rural areas and to propose knowledge‑diffusion strategies for local governments and cities. Using a purposefully selected sample, the authors administered an online snowball‑method questionnaire to respondents, who indicated the factors they believe most influence decarbonization. The survey revealed that although coal use in residential heating has declined, it remains the dominant electricity source, low‑carbon policies are undervalued, and public acceptance of decarbonization requires further research.

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to identify the determinants of decarbonization processes in Poland by urban and rural areas. It also presents directions for knowledge diffusion on decarbonization to develop a sustainable energy strategy for Poland, particularly for local governments and cities. Despite extensive research on the determinants of decarbonization and sustainable energy development, there is a lack of specific solutions in this area. The authors of this paper investigated which determinants, according to the respondents, would lead to better decarbonization solutions in cities and villages in terms of sustainability. The studied sample was purposefully selected and an online questionnaire was used with the use of the “snowball” method. The authors conducted surveys that allowed the concerned parties themselves (respondents) to indicate which factors they believe best influence decarbonization. Such measures are helpful in terms of the understanding public acceptance of decarbonization in terms of the energy transition. This is of particular importance in terms of green governance globally and in Europe. The results of the authors’ research indicate that despite the reduction in the share of coal in residential and domestic heating, coal remains the main source of electricity generation and that the potential for low-carbon policy to have an impact on solving urban challenges is underestimated. From the findings, it can be concluded that more in-depth research is needed on public acceptance of decarbonization in its broadest sense and its implications.