Original scientific paper
Digital Twin Models with ESG Methodology as a Tool for Transforming Solutions in the Transport-Energy Sector with Applications to Sustainable Tourism
Zdenko Kljaić
; Ericsson Nikola Tesla d.d., Krapinska 45, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Tomislav Josip Mlinarić
; Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences, University of Zagreb, Vukelićeva 4, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Marinela Krstinić Nižetić
; Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management, University of Rijeka, Primorska 42, 51410, Opatija, Croatia
Pero Škorput
; Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences, University of Zagreb, Vukelićeva 4, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Hrvoje Carić
; 4Institute for Tourism, Vrhovec 5, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Orhideja Gjenero
; Ericsson Nikola Tesla d.d., Krapinska 45, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Eduard Briški
; HAKOM - Croatian Regulatory Authority for Network industries, Roberta Frangeša-Mihanovića 9, Zagreb, Croatia
Danijel Pavković
; Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Zagreb, Ivana Lučića 5, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Abstract
The transport and energy sectors face significant challenges in achieving sustainability and efficiency. This paper explores the potential of digital twin (DT) models, coupled with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) methodology, to transform solutions in these critical areas. Digital twins, i.e. virtual representations of physical systems, provide real-time data and insights for process optimization. ESG methodology, focusing on environmental impact, social responsibility, and good governance, guides decision-making towards sustainable practices. This paper investigates how digital twin models, integrated with ESG principles, can be used to: (i) optimize transportation networks: reduce traffic congestion, improve public transportation efficiency, and minimize fuel consumption, and (ii) enhance energy management, i.e. optimize energy production and distribution, integrate renewable energy sources, and reduce overall environmental footprint. Based on these insights, the combination of DT technology coupled with ESG methodologies is researched with respect to transformative opportunities for sustainable tourism, which can be applied across the transportation-energy sector by optimizing resource allocation, reducing emissions, and promoting social equity. The main finding is that digital twins, combined with ESG principles, offer a promising way to increase the tourism sector’s sustainability by optimizing transportation and energy use, but successfully adopting these solutions may require changes in traveler behavior and careful consideration of many ethical and practical challenges.
Keywords
Digital Twins; ESG Methodologies; Transport and Energy Sectors, Sustainable Tourism
Hrčak ID:
329916
URI
Publication date:
31.3.2025.
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