Editorial to the ‘Special Issue—Energy transition in a circular economy perspective’ of AIMS Energy

Abstract

There is strong scientific evidence that emissions of greenhouse gases arising from traditional fuels are harming the environment, causing global climate change [1]. In this field, bioenergy (i.e., fuels, power, heat) are increasingly drawing attention as sustainable alternatives to fossil-based energy production, potentially able to address concerns associated with energy costs, global warming, energy security, etc. [2]. Policy makers guide the choices regarding sources of energy, but the energy industry should use circular economy (CE) as a foundation for developing new business opportunities in order to be ready for tackling issues linked to the decrease in the availability of traditional raw materials and the increase in related prices [3]. Little has been done so far, but research and innovation can considerably contribute in improving life through CE by closing the loop between sustainability and decarbonization. The Special Issue aims to inspire works encompassing and identifying the development and implications of more sustainable options of energy use and production in a close collaboration with all relevant stakeholders (i.e., communities, firms, policymakers, and researchers).