Exploring the intersection of environmental sustainability and digital innovation, the European Green Deal aims to lead the EU towards climate neutrality by 2050. Amidst this ambitious goal, questions arise about the compatibility of green and digital transitions within the European Commission’s agenda.
A recent study conducted by UOC highlights a potential risk in merging these two transformations – a scenario where environmental concerns might take a back seat to technological advancements. Published in Environment and Planning E: Nature and Space, the research sheds light on this critical issue.
The analysis suggests that while pursuing a dual transition strategy, the EU may inadvertently prioritize digital market competitiveness over comprehensive environmental governance. Zora Kovacic, a researcher at UOC’s TURBA Lab, emphasizes how this approach could limit sustainability efforts to benefit only specific aspects of the new digital sector.
By emphasizing “lamp-posting,” focusing on easily solvable problems rather than urgent environmental crises like biodiversity loss or water pollution, there is a risk of neglecting pressing issues for those that align with digital solutions.
This study underscores the importance of balancing green objectives with technological advancements to ensure holistic sustainability across all sectors. It challenges policymakers to reevaluate their strategies for achieving long-term environmental goals amidst rapid digital transformations.
2024-09-27 13:15:03
Article from phys.org