Resourceefficient

Resource efficient or resource efficiency refers to practices and systems that minimize the use of inputs such as energy, materials, and water while maintaining or increasing output, quality, and service. The concept encompasses productivity gains, environmental protection, and cost reduction, and is central to strategies for sustainable development and circular economy. Resource efficiency is measured through indicators such as energy intensity (energy use per unit of economic activity), material intensity, water use efficiency, and waste generation relative to economic output.

Approaches include energy-efficient technologies, process optimization, lean manufacturing, and dematerialization of products. In product design, strategies emphasize durability, repairability, modularity, and recyclability to extend life and enable remanufacturing. In operations, approaches include process integration, heat recovery, and resource-efficient supply chains.

Sectors include energy and buildings with efficient HVAC and lighting; industry with high-efficiency motors; agriculture with precision irrigation; information technology and data centers with power management; transportation with modal shift and vehicle efficiency.

Policy and standards: Governments promote resource efficiency through regulations, subsidies, and performance standards; international frameworks include SDG 12. ISO 50001 energy management, ISO 14001 environmental management, and Life Cycle Assessment.

Despite benefits, challenges include high upfront costs, measurement complexity, rebound effects, and uneven access to technology. Continuous innovation and robust metrics are needed to sustain gains in resource efficiency.