Ökotõhusus

Ökotõhusus, known in English as eco-efficiency, is an environmental management concept that focuses on producing goods and services while minimizing environmental impact. It aims to increase resource productivity and reduce the environmental burden associated with economic activities. The core idea is to do more with less, achieving economic growth with a disproportionately smaller increase in environmental degradation.

The concept was popularized by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). Ökotõhusus involves optimizing processes to reduce energy consumption, water usage, waste generation, and emissions of pollutants. It encourages innovation in product design, manufacturing, and service delivery to make them more sustainable. Businesses that adopt ökotõhusus strategies often find that they can also improve their economic performance through cost savings and enhanced market reputation.

Key elements of ökotõhusus include life cycle assessment, cleaner production techniques, and the promotion of a circular economy where resources are reused and recycled. By measuring and managing their environmental performance, organizations can identify areas for improvement and set targets for reducing their ecological footprint. The ultimate goal is to decouple economic growth from environmental damage, contributing to a more sustainable future for both business and the planet.