The European Union Cohesion Policy impact on Circular Economy and Renewable Energy: a comparison between Portugal and Slovenia

Abstract

The European Union (EU) Cohesion Policy promotes sustainable transitions. It emphasises establishing a solid Circular Economy (CE) plan and a Renewable Energy (RE) transition effort for an environment that matches the United Nations’ sustainable development goals. This article compares the impact of the European Cohesion Policy on CE practices and RE in Portugal and Slovenia during the last funding programme from 2014 to 2020. Aligned with the EU Green Deal goals, this research analyses qualitative material and quantitative data in indexes crucial to track sustainability development in Portugal and Slovenia, leading to a forecasting model for the following years (until 2027). These countries were picked due to their similarities in economic circumstances and environmentally friendly legal frameworks that allow comparison of the two case studies without overlooking crucial variables. By focusing on 12 dimensions within the CE and RE dimensions, the study aims to identify patterns contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the specific needs and strategies to strengthen project selection and implementation in both countries for the 2021-2027 EU Cohesion Policy Programme.