Materialeforbrug

Materialeforbrug describes the amount and rate at which material resources are consumed by a society or economy over a given period. In policy and environmental debates it is often analyzed as domestic material consumption (DMC) or as a broader material footprint. DMC measures the total material inputs used in the economy, including materials extracted domestically and imported, minus exports. The material footprint extends this concept to include the materials embodied in imported goods and services, highlighting consumption that occurs elsewhere when goods are produced abroad.

Measurement and scope: Materialeforbrug is typically studied using material flows analysis (MFA), which tracks inputs, stocks, and outputs of materials throughout the economy. Common material groups include biomass, fossil energy materials, metals, and non-metallic minerals. Analysts distinguish domestic extraction, processing, manufacturing, use, waste generation, and end-of-life management. Data come from national statistics, trade data, and international frameworks such as MFA guidelines.

Drivers and sectors: Materialeforbrug is driven by population, income, consumption patterns, and urbanisation. Sectors with high material intensity include construction, machinery and equipment, packaging, and electronics. Trends such as urban growth, durability of products, and recycling rates influence overall material use and the potential for reductions.

Impacts and policy responses: High materialeforbrug can stress natural resources, energy systems, and ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity loss and emissions. Policy approaches aim at increasing material efficiency, promoting recycling, waste reduction, product design for durability and reuse, and circular economy strategies. Data and indicators help monitor progress and guide policy at national and regional levels.