A veteran energy scientist is calling for a renewed, science-based approach to balancing global development, social well-being, and environmental protection—an approach he believes must begin with open, evidence-driven debate rather than ideology.
In a perspective published in the inaugural issue of Energy and Environment Nexus , Professor Dongke Zhang of The University of Western Australia reflects on four decades of work in energy science and engineering. Drawing from his professional journey across thermodynamics, combustion, and sustainability, Zhang introduces the concept of the “Energy and Environment Nexus”—a framework emphasizing that energy, society, and the environment are deeply interdependent.
“Energy is often misunderstood,” Zhang explains. “People talk about energy as if it were power, but they are not the same. Understanding this difference is key to building sustainable solutions.” He summarizes this relationship through “Zhang’s four imperatives of energy”, power intensity, energy density, cost, and scale, principles he believes should guide all discussions of global energy systems.
Zhang argues that access to affordable, reliable, and clean energy is essential to alleviating poverty and achieving sustainability. Nearly half of the world’s population still lives below the poverty line, he notes, and without equitable energy access, environmental goals will remain out of reach. “If it is not economically feasible, it is not sustainable,” he writes.
The article also challenges readers to distinguish between climate science and climate ideology. Zhang calls for continued scientific research on renewable energy and climate systems, but cautions against oversimplifying complex natural processes or pursuing policies without firm scientific foundations. “Science is a journey of discovery,” he writes. “It is not infallible, and it must always remain open to scrutiny.”
The launch of Energy and Environment Nexus marks the realization of Zhang’s long-held vision for a scholarly forum that connects science, engineering, economics, and policy. The journal, established by Southeast University in China, aims to serve as a global platform for rigorous, inclusive discussion on how to secure both energy security and ecological sustainability.
“Science thrives on debate,” Zhang concludes. “Only by embracing open inquiry can we find the balance between economic growth, human well-being, and a healthy planet.”
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Journal reference: Zhang D. 2025. On Energy and Environment Nexus : balancing economic development, social well-being, and ecological sustainability with science. Energy & Environment Nexus 1: e005 https://www.maxapress.com/article/doi/10.48130/een-0025-0009
About Energy & Environment Nexus :
Energy & Environment Nexus is an open-access journal publishing high-quality research on the interplay between energy systems and environmental sustainability, including renewable energy, carbon mitigation, and green technologies.
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On Energy and Environment Nexus: balancing economic development, social well-being, and ecological sustainability with science
25-Sep-2025