Miljöintensitet

Miljöintensitet, or environmental intensity, is a term used to describe the environmental impact of an activity, product, or service relative to its economic output or usage. It measures how much environmental degradation occurs per unit of economic value created. For example, a country with high miljöintensitet in its manufacturing sector would produce a large amount of pollution or resource depletion for every dollar of manufactured goods.

This concept is crucial for understanding the sustainability of economic systems. A low miljöintensitet indicates a more efficient and less environmentally damaging economy. Conversely, a high miljöintensitet suggests that economic growth is coming at a significant environmental cost. Efforts to reduce miljöintensitet often involve technological innovation, shifts to cleaner energy sources, improved resource management, and the adoption of circular economy principles.

Measuring miljöintensitet can be done using various indicators, such as greenhouse gas emissions per unit of GDP, water consumption per unit of agricultural output, or waste generation per capita. By tracking these metrics, policymakers and businesses can identify areas where environmental improvements are most needed and implement strategies to achieve them. The goal is to decouple economic growth from environmental degradation, allowing for continued development without compromising the planet's health. Understanding and reducing miljöintensitet is a key component of achieving sustainable development.