Question 67 from UPSC CSE 2025 - Environme nt & Ecology

Question

Consider the following statements:
1. Circular economy reduces the emissions of greenhouse gases.
2. Circular economy reduces the use of raw materials as inputs.
3. Circular economy reduces wastage in the production process.
Which one of the above statements is correct in respect of the other statements?

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: A. Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I

Strategy: To address this question, first recognize that a circular economy fundamentally revolves around minimizing resource extraction, reducing waste, and maximizing reuse. Thus, both Statements II and III align with the core principles. Then link these to Statement I: reducing raw materials and production waste directly leads to lower greenhouse gas emissions because less extraction, production, and waste disposal occur. Both II and III are correct and jointly explain why Statement I is true.

Key Info: The circular economy is an economic model aimed at extending the lifecycle of products, components, and materials by promoting reuse, repair, refurbishing, and recycling. Unlike the traditional linear economy ('take-make-dispose'), the circular model seeks to close resource loops to achieve sustainable growth.

Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions: This occurs primarily due to decreased demand for raw material extraction, transportation, and processing, all of which are energy- and emission-intensive. For example, recycling aluminum saves about 95% of the energy required to process bauxite ore into new aluminum.

Reduction in Use of Raw Materials: Through resource-efficient practices such as recycling, repair, and remanufacturing, circular economy approaches decrease reliance on virgin or primary raw materials. This not only conserves resources but also reduces environmental degradation associated with extraction.

Reduction in Wastage in Production: By emphasizing product design for durability, modularity, and easy disassembly, circular economy strategies target minimizing waste at source and throughout value chains. Waste materials are reintegrated as inputs, further reducing landfill and environmental impact.

Examples include the European Union's Circular Economy Action Plan, adoption of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), the Ellen MacArthur Foundation's advocacy, and prominent Indian policy discussions (e.g., NITI Aayog's reports encouraging closed-loop systems for sectors like plastics and electronics).

Circular economy is also linked with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Answer

Option B: Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I

Answer

Option C: Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I

Answer

Option D: Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct

Consider the following statements: Circular economy reduces the emissions of greenhouse gases. Circular economy reduces the use of raw materials as inputs. Circular economy reduces wastage in the production process. Which one of the above statements is correct in respect of the other statements?

Consider the following statements:

Circular economy reduces the emissions of greenhouse gases.

Circular economy reduces the use of raw materials as inputs.

Circular economy reduces wastage in the production process.
Which one of the above statements is correct in respect of the other statements?