Economic growth and the environment is a complex and much debated issue. Per Kågeson's book has a broader approach than earlier studies on this subject as he relates the analysis of present-day problems and trends (1960-2010) to clearly defined long-term objectives based on the concept of sustainable development.
The present volume covers the use of non-renewable resources in the OECD countries in a global perspective, while the regional environmental impact of economic growth is discussed in a European context. The book also includes an analysis of the potential conflict between pollution abatement costs and economic growth.

Inhalt

1. Introduction.- 2. Hypotheses.- 3. Delimitations and methodology.- 4. The concept of sustainable development.- 5. Economic growth in the post-war period.- 6. Resource intensity.- 7. Depletion of natural resources.- 8. Economic growth and the environment the case of OECD Europe.- 9. Air pollution.- 10. Climate change.- 11. Water pollution.- 12. Hazardous chemicals.- 13. Toxic heavy metals.- 14. Dematerialisation and waste.- 15. Noise.- 16. Nature protection and biodiversity.- 17. Pollution abatement costs and economic growth.- 18. A closer look at transport.- 19. Discussion and main conclusions.- References.