Achieving Climate Neutrality in Hungary by 2050: Application of the Pathways Explorer 2050 Model
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This research utilises the Climate 2050 Pathways Explorer (PE) model, which incorporates Hungary’s social and economic context, to explore pathways for achieving climate neutrality by 2050. The study integrates historical data, sectoral reports, and strategies outlined by the Hungarian government, employing a freely accessible online simulation model. The PE model provides an economy-wide analysis, examining interactions across nearly one hundred adjustable parameters. Dynamic and static scenarios are compared to assess the extent and nature of emissions reductions across sectors such as energy, transportation, construction, food, agriculture, forestry, industry, and waste management, in response to various policy interventions. The findings indicate that Hungary’s current National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) is insufficient to achieve the 2050 climate neutrality target. Alternative scenarios are proposed, ranging from projections based on historical trends to strategies necessitating transformative changes, innovation, and significant investment. The study underscores the importance of improving energy efficiency, expanding renewable energy sources, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and decarbonising critical sectors such as transportation and agriculture through technological advancements and policy measures. The analysis highlights the necessity of adopting advanced technologies over an extended timeframe and implementing long-term policies supported by comprehensive investment programmes. These measures are essential for enabling Hungary to align with global efforts to combat climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.
Institution: University of Dunaújváros
Language: English
Subfield: Economics and Econometrics
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7166328752