Study Resource Efficiency Gains and Green Growth Perspectives in Poland Szymon Szewra ń ski September 2012 n Poland’s energy sector is mainly based on fossil sources; the power sector depends almost entirely on coal. Only 9 per cent of Poland’s energy production is based on renewable energies. Despite its wealth in natural resources, energy efficiency is cru­cial for a balanced and sustainable development in Poland. n Energy intensity in Poland is almost twice as high as the EU average; greenhouse gas emissions are also high(8 per cent of total EU greenhouse gas emissions). Over 75 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions are caused by the combustion of fossil fuels (mainly coal and oil). Therefore, the main potential for emissions reduction lies in the energy sector. n Some legal, financial and organizational mechanisms have already or are currently being implemented in order to encourage the reduction of emissions. However, po­litical measures to support eco-innovation remain only on a medium level. n The potential for green jobs in Poland is significant. In most regions there are strong academic centres capable of conducting educational projects for the sake of green growth. The environmental awareness among the young generation increases. The main constraints for green growth are administrative barriers, the absence of a clear political strategy to modernise the energy sector, and mechanisms for using environ­mental charges for new investments.