Technology for Sustainable Development

Abstract

Debate continues on the question of whether or not it is possible to foster productivity that contributes to economic growth and a rise in income, while at the same time decreasing emissions down to the level that makes it possible to maintain availability of the environmental qualities for future generations. In this chapter, we discuss if it is possible to decouple economic growth and material use (so-called dematerialization) and whether it is possible to steer technologies towards less material use and emissions per unit of produced value (so-called ecoefficiency). A final answer cannot yet be delivered, but the arguments are discussed to pursue more balanced decision making in environmental policies and management.

Parts of this chapter were published in Krozer and Nentjes, (2006), An Essay on Innovations for sustainable development, Environmental Science, 3(3):163–174. I am grateful to the Taylor and Francis Group for permission to use the material.