The zero-growth proposal advocates for:
Select one: a. Zero growth of GDP, because higher GDP imposes additional environmental costs b. Zero addition to capital stock and population c. Zero pollution emission to maintain sustainable growth d. All of the answers are correct
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: d. All of the answers are correct
The zero-growth proposal is a concept promoted by ecological economists and environmental advocates who argue that continuous economic growth is unsustainable due to the planet’s finite resources. The core idea is that beyond a certain level of economic development, additional growth may bring more harm than benefit, especially by accelerating environmental degradation, depleting natural resources, and increasing pollution.
First, the proposal includes zero GDP growth, based on the argument that ever-increasing economic output requires more energy, materials, and land, which imposes significant environmental and social costs. In developed nations, where basic needs are already met, further GDP growth often adds to environmental harm without proportionately improving well-being.
Second, it advocates for no additional capital stock and population. Growth in capital stock means more factories, machines, and infrastructure, which usually involves more resource use and waste. Population growth increases demand for food, water, housing, and energy, placing more pressure on ecosystems. The zero-growth model supports stabilizing both capital and population at sustainable levels.
Third, the proposal supports zero pollution emissions to ensure environmental sustainability. This does not necessarily mean literally no emissions, but rather the strict minimization of pollutants so that ecosystems can recover and remain healthy. In practical terms, it implies shifting to clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and closed-loop production systems.
Therefore, all three points—limiting GDP growth, capital accumulation, and pollution—are essential aspects of the zero-growth approach. The ultimate aim is to create a steady-state economy that balances human needs with environmental limits. This model seeks long-term sustainability, rather than short-term economic expansion, emphasizing quality of life, equity, and ecological health over quantitative growth.