Decarbonization of the Logistics Sector in Poland in the Context of Macroeconomic and Financial Conditions

Abstract

Purpose – The paper is primarily aimed to assess the impact of selected macro economic conditions and the financial situation of decarbonization of the logistics sector in Poland from 2008 to 2020.Research method – To verify the main research hypothesis, the author creates a syn-thetic indicator of decarbonization, of macroeconomic conditions and of the sector’s financial situation, using one of the normalization methods. To estimate the impact of explanatory variables on the dependent variable, the author used the Ordinary Least Square Method (OLS).Results – The research results show a positive trend in the decarbonization indicator of the logistics sector, which is particularly visible at the end of the period under study, i.e. in 2019–2020. EU regulations undoubtedly influence this state of affairs regarding the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide. The estimation results indicate that macroeconomic conditions and the sector’s financial situation from the previous period (t-1) statistically significantly impact (p < 0.05) the decarbonization of logistics. It should be noted that the directions of their influence are different. Macro economic conditions from the period (t-1) positively impact decarbonization, and the financial situation has a negative impact.Originality / value / implications / recommendations – The paper’s novelty is expressed in presenting a model estimating the impact of macroeconomic and financial conditions on the decarbonization of logistics. The decarbonization process was also presented, and the literature in the examined area was reviewed. The study results indicate that economic and financial factors are important for decarbonization. Hence, their improvement should positively impact the ecological investments of enterprises in the logistics sector.