Resource Efficiency: Potential and Economic Implications

This report was prepared by the United Nations Environment Programme's International Resource Panel in response to a request from the leaders of the G7 countries, in the context of efforts to promote resource efficiency as a central element of sustainable development. The report is based on in-depth research to assess and articulate perspectives and solutions for resource efficiency. It considers how a more efficient use of resources can contribute to economic growth, employment and development while reducing the global use of materials, energy, biomass and water, as well as the resulting environmental impacts.