Physical Constraints on Global Social-Ecological Energy System

Abstract

Energy is the main driver of human Social-Ecological System (SES) dynamics. Collective energy properties of human SES can be described applying the principles of statistical mechanics: (i) energy consumption repartition; (ii) efficiency; (iii) performance, as efficient power, in relation to the least-action principle. International Energy Agency data are analyzed through the lens of such principles. Declining physical efficiency and growth of power losses emerge from our analysis. Losses mainly depend on intermediate system outputs and non-energy final output. Energy performance at Country level also depends on efficient power consumption. Better and worse performing Countries are identified accordingly. Five policy-relevant areas are identified in relation to the physical principles introduced in this paper: Improve efficiency; Decouple economic growth from environmental degradation; Focus on high value added and labor-intensive sectors; Rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful consumption; Upgrade the technological capabilities. Coherently with our findings, policies should support the following actions: (1) redefine sectoral energy distribution shares; (2) Improve Country-level performance, if needed; (3) Reduce intermediate outputs and non-energy final output; (4) Reduce resources supply to improve eco-efficiency together with system performance.

The establishment of the national key ecological functional zone and the county’s ecological green development

“…Existing industrial development zones should reduce the intensity of resource consumption and pollution emissions, so as to realize the sustainable cycle of the park. The pilot counties resolutely put an end to the expansion of the original industrial development zone in the region to free up more space for maintaining a virtuous circle of green ecosystems (Casazza et al, 2021). Second, the government has greatly reduced investment and construction expenditures for unnecessary industries, efficiently utilized the stock construction land, and increased the area of ecological green coverage.…”