Material flow accounts, balances and derived indicators for the Czech Republic during the 1990s: results and recommendations for methodological improvements

摘要: Abstract The economy and the environment are connected through material energy flows. These flows key cause of environmental problems (together with land use other biological social factors) can serve as an indirect indicator pressure on environment. leading method for assessing dematerialisation at a macroeconomic level was developed during 1990s by number research institutes organisations. result this effort guide [‘Eurostat (2001) 92’]. This is analysis total mass annual inputs outputs whole economic system, using accounts, balances derived indicators manual touches only briefly between various sectors economy. article describes application flow (MFA) to Czech Republic. Relevant were basis accounts compiled Republic 1990–2000. presented here first results covering long time period comprehensive set in transition show that decreased 10-year-period analysed approximately 30–40%. Material intensity also dropped 30% (i.e. efficiency increased 30%) while countries such Germany 15-year-period. Finally it has been possible demonstrate growth expressed GDP decoupled from indicators. proposes further work should be undertaken MFA In conclusion, recommendations made how improve methodology used.