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Growth in a circular economy

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  • Compagnoni, Marco
  • Stadler, Manfred

Abstract

We present a model of natural resources and growth that stresses the influence of an incomplete circularity of exhaustible natural resources. In particular, we analyze the recycling process and the material balance principle, two fundamental aspects of a circular economy. When market failures arise or complete recycling is not possible for technical reasons, then the equilibrium outcomes in terms of output, consumption, and prices for the material inputs are distorted compared to the socially optimal solution. However, the introduction of a market for waste and a system of subsidies/taxes on virgin and recycled resources enables an internalization of the externalities. The importance of technological progress in order to foster "circularity", i.e. both to improve resource efficiency in the production process and to enhance the backflow of materials from waste to production, is highlighted.

Suggested Citation

  • Compagnoni, Marco & Stadler, Manfred, 2021. "Growth in a circular economy," University of Tübingen Working Papers in Business and Economics 145, University of Tuebingen, Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences, School of Business and Economics.
  • Handle: RePEc:zbw:tuewef:145
    DOI: 10.15496/publikation-56495
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Circular economy; economic growth; natural resources; recycling;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O41 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - One, Two, and Multisector Growth Models
    • Q01 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - General - - - Sustainable Development
    • Q32 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Nonrenewable Resources and Conservation - - - Exhaustible Resources and Economic Development
    • Q53 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Air Pollution; Water Pollution; Noise; Hazardous Waste; Solid Waste; Recycling

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