sustainability – European Studies Review

A Case for Reconnecting UK–EU Energy Markets

By Jordy Benooit Europe’s decarbonisation strategy increasingly depends on electrification. Transport, heating and cooling, and industry must switch from fossil to electric power, while the energy grids must be fitted to absorb rapidly growing volumes of wind, solar and other low-carbon generation. Focussing on localised energy production and storage alone will not be sufficient. ElectricityContinue reading “A Case for Reconnecting UK–EU Energy Markets”

SMR Strategy or Paralysis: Europe’s Next Energy Security Test

By Jordy Benooit Introduction The tension around Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, the phase out of Russian energy imports, and the subsequently rising energy prices highlight a structural weakness in the European Union’s energy system: a supply chain subjected to continued exposure to external shocks. When geopolitical disruption affects major oil and gas routes,Continue reading “SMR Strategy or Paralysis: Europe’s Next Energy Security Test”

Critical Raw Materials: A Fragile Foundation in Europe’s Green Transition?

By Federica Attianese As Europe advances its twin transitions –the shift to green energy and towards the digital economy– it is becoming evident that reaching these goals depend on a precarious base: the availability of critical raw materials (CRMs). Whether it is lithium or rare earth elements, the demand for such resources is increasing. Yet,Continue reading “Critical Raw Materials: A Fragile Foundation in Europe’s Green Transition? “

Whose Sustainability? The Global Costs of Europe’s Green Transition

By Claudia Lebiecka Brussels is actively expanding its green trade network. Following its December 2023 decision for a modernised association agreement with Chile, with a particular emphasis on critical raw materials, the European Union and the United Arab Emirates began formal negotiations for a free trade agreement on April 10. The emphasis on renewable energy,Continue reading “Whose Sustainability? The Global Costs of Europe’s Green Transition”