Ecological and economic potential of secondhand markets for dematerialization of the economy

Abstract

Since the 1970s, a growing body of research by environmental scientists has suggested that greater material efficiency, use of better materials, reuse and recycling, and the growth often service economy are contributing to the "dematerialization" of the economy. In this context, it is often suggested that the recycling and reuse of products, materials, and wastes have significant potential for increasing material efficiency and reducing environmental impacts. Taking this idea to its limit, Graedel and Allenby (1996) have suggested that the ultimate goal of environmental management could be the evolution of the economy into a system in which all materials are reused and recycled. But despite the interest in dematerialization and reuse of materials, there is as yet no theoretical framework for understanding the future evolution of material use in industri¬alized societies. When you are citing the document, use the following link http://essuir.sumdu.edu.ua/handle/123456789/36071