A Spotlight on Environmental Sustainability in View of the European Green Deal

Abstract

This bibliometric study investigates the scientific landscape of environmental sustainability within the European Green Deal (EGD) framework. Utilizing data from the Scopus and Science Direct databases, the study aims to map research trends and frontiers, providing a comprehensive overview of the evolving discourse on sustainability. The EGD’s ambitious goal to render the European Union climate-neutral by 2050 is highlighted, showcasing its significant impact across multiple sectors. The study reveals the integration of new methods and broadening research scopes by employing modern bibliometric techniques. Key thematic focuses include the transition to a circular economy and the emphasis on sustainable resource management, underpinning the EGD’s comprehensive approach to combining economic growth with environmental protection. The analysis unveils the critical role of technological innovation and policy reforms in advancing toward a sustainable, competitive, and climate-neutral economy. The research demonstrates the pivotal role of empirical studies in guiding policy formulation and implementation, showing how targeted measures in resource and energy productivity, combined with a decisive shift towards renewable energy, are integral to fostering a sustainable, competitive, and climate-neutral economy. This convergence of findings reinforces the argument that a multifaceted approach, encompassing policy, technology, and innovation, is essential for navigating the challenges of environmental sustainability and climate change, aligning closely with the overarching aims of the EGD.