PUBLIC POLICIES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF THE TRANSITION TO A GREEN ECONOMY

This study examines the effectiveness of public policies in promoting sustainable economic development within
the framework of the green economy transition across the 27 European Union Member States from 2013 to 2023.
Using a fixed effects panel data model, it assesses the impact of recycling rates, circular material use, packaging waste
generation, energy consumption, GDP per capita, and environmental tax revenues on resource productivity. The
findings indicate that recycling and circular material use positively influence resource productivity, while higher
energy consumption in households has a negative impact. Real GDP per capita is strongly associated with improved
resource productivity, whereas environmental tax revenues show limited effectiveness. The study highlights the need for
better-coordinated policies, enhanced recycling infrastructure, improved energy efficiency, and reformed
environmental taxes to support the green transition. By providing empirical evidence on these relationships, it offers
valuable insights for policymakers aiming to enhance resource efficiency and achieve sustainable development within
the European Union.