Environmental Science
Ecological Modernization Theory and Environmental Policy
Quick fact
Ecological modernization theory argues that pollution is not an inevitable byproduct of production but a sign of inefficiency, so that well-designed environmental policy can spur innovations that both cut emissions and lower costs.
Why this is interesting
You might think that protecting the environment is a drag on the economy—but what if it could actually make industries more competitive? This is the surprising premise of ecological modernization theory.