Physical Constraints on Global Social-Ecological Energy System

Energy is the main driver of human Social-Ecological System (SES) dynamics. Collective energy properties SES can be described applying principles statistical mechanics: (i) consumption repartition; (ii) efficiency; (iii) performance, as efficient power, in relation to least-action principle. International Agency data are analyzed through lens such principles. Declining physical efficiency and growth power losses emerge from our analysis. Losses mainly depend on intermediate system outputs non-energy final output. performance at Country level also depends consumption. Better worse performing Countries identified accordingly. Five policy-relevant areas introduced this paper: Improve Decouple economic environmental degradation; Focus high value added labor-intensive sectors; Rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful consumption; Upgrade technological capabilities. Coherently with findings, policies should support following actions: (1) redefine sectoral distribution shares; (2) Country-level if needed; (3) Reduce output; (4) resources supply improve eco-efficiency together performance.