Bringing sustainability: the role of the green economy in enhancing resource efficiency

This paper explores the effectiveness of resource efficiency and energy intensity strategies in selected countriesusing a mixed-methods approach. It analyzes how nations such as Sweden and Canada have successfully alignedenvironmental and economic objectives, while countries like China face complex challenges in transitioning to a greeneconomy. The study highlights the role of institutional capacity, clean energy adoption, and sustainable developmentpolicies in reducing material and energy intensity. Results show that higher-income countries demonstrate betterperformance in energy efficiency, whereas developing countries still face rising material demand. The findings suggestthat national policy coherence and investment in green infrastructure are critical to advancing the global green economy