The goal of this paper is the research and analysis of municipal waste stream management in rural areas, potentially designed for energy purposes in thermal treatment systems. The research section includes granulometric, morphological, and physicochemical analyses to determine waste parameters. Studies have indicated that the calorific value for mixed municipal waste ranged between 6.5 and 9.5 MJ∙kg, while following mechanical treatment for the oversize fraction over 80 mm ranged between 11.6 and 12.7 MJ∙kg. The biodegradable fraction content analysis of waste—granulation 10 to 20 mm—demonstrated its presence at the level of 80%, which may be used to produce biogas. Studies have shown that the humidity level of waste generated in rural areas is in the range of 32.9 to 40.9%, which does not disqualify it from energy use in the production of refuse-derived fuel. Implementing a circular economy in the municipal waste sector aims at minimizing the use of raw materials, limiting municipal waste generation and greenhouse gases emissions, and increasing the level of energy use. Implementing new municipal waste management models is crucial to achieve a balanced, low-emission, waste-free, and competitive economy. The results are a significant research input for a group of municipal wastes generated in rural areas, such as refuse-derived fuel.

This spatial analysis focuses on the relevant elements regarding the use of renewable energy sources, in particular, biogas, taking into account sustainability. The characteristics of the processes of biogas formation are presented, including the technological and biological aspects of its production. The issues of agricultural biogas plant profitability are discussed using examples from Poland, analyzing the economic and financial aspects of investing in this type of plant. Geospatial analysis supported by geographic information systems (GISs) looked at factors affecting the relief of the land and also the analysis of local plans or zoning decisions for the selected site. In addition, distance relationships and geological aspects taking into account terrain, landslides, and forestation, as well as hydrological aspects relating to flood and flooding hazards, were examined. It analyzed the availability of utility networks and proximity to road infrastructure. It was also examined that the proposed project will not have a negative impact on environmental protection. The analyzed site meets favorable conditions for the construction of the proposed project, and the conclusion drawn from this study is to emphasize the importance of integrating renewable energy sources with information systems to achieve sustainable development.

The main objective of the research presented in this article was to analyze the composition of exhaust gases from passenger cars undergoing periodic inspections and to determine the influence of vehicle age, mileage and the applicable EURO emission standard on the level of emissions of individual components of exhaust gases and thus on the environment. The research was carried out at the District Vehicle Inspection Station in Nowy Sącz, using methods for analyzing the composition of exhaust gases and smoke opacity. The results obtained make it possible to assess whether exhaust emission diagnostics can form the basis for the implementation of a sustainable road transport policy. The study showed that older vehicles emit higher concentrations of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HC), and diesel cars manufactured before 2010 are characterized by increased smoke opacity. A reliable analysis of the emissions performance of vehicles on the road enables more effective measures to be taken to reduce emissions and improve air quality through regulation, the introduction of clean traffic zones and raising environmental awareness among drivers. This is especially important in regions with specific geographical conditions, such as the Nowy Sącz district, where the terrain—Nowy Sącz is located in a basin surrounded by mountain ranges—favors the accumulation of pollutants and hinders the natural air circulation, leading to the long-term persistence of smog.