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Economic growth and the environment

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  • Figueroa, Adolfo

Abstract

The relationship between economic growth and the environment is one of the most significant problems in modern economics. Empirical data are increasingly available, but the theories behind those data remain a matter of debate. This paper presents an elementary theoretical model of the interactions between the economic process and the environment, drawing on a theory developed by Georgescu-Roegen, in which the laws of thermodynamics are applied to the economic process. The model assumes that the growth and distribution process is currently operating amid conditions of environmental distress. The model is able to predict and explain the observed relationship between economic growth and the environment, identifying new public policy implications. The paper thus aims to contribute to the debate on the choices that society must make about the future of humanity.

Suggested Citation

  • Figueroa, Adolfo, 2013. "Economic growth and the environment," Revista CEPAL, Naciones Unidas Comisión Económica para América Latina y el Caribe (CEPAL), April.
    • Handle: RePEc:ecr:col070:11624
    Note: Includes bibliography
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    2. Hanley, Nick & Shogren, Jason & White, Ben, 2013. "Introduction to Environmental Economics," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, edition 2, number 9780199568734.
    3. Grimaud, Andre & Rouge, Luc, 2005. "Polluting non-renewable resources, innovation and growth: welfare and environmental policy," Resource and Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 27(2), pages 109-129, June.
    4. Galindo, Luis Miguel & Samaniego, Joseluis, 2010. "The economics of climate change in Latin America and the Caribbean: stylized facts," Revista CEPAL, Naciones Unidas Comisión Económica para América Latina y el Caribe (CEPAL), April.
    5. Stefan baumgärtner, 2004. "The Inada Conditions for Material Resource Inputs Reconsidered," Environmental & Resource Economics, Springer;European Association of Environmental and Resource Economists, vol. 29(3), pages 307-322, November.
    6. R. M. Solow, 1974. "Intergenerational Equity and Exhaustible Resources," The Review of Economic Studies, Review of Economic Studies Ltd, vol. 41(5), pages 29-45.
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