Essays on the macroeconomic interrelations of human and nature

Abstract

The global system, and therefore humanity, is increasingly threatened by ecological problem situtations. Primarily driven by economic activities, such as resource extraction and the intensive use of fossil fuels, ecological limits are increasingly being exceeded and tipping points with unpredictable dynamic reactions are being risked. These interrelationships are described in the introductory chapter, focussing on the global context. Specific aspects are considered in the subsequent chapters. Firstly, the connection between resource extraction and biodiversity loss is considered, as well as the possible role of governance mechanisms in this relationship. Secondly, convergence dynamics of global meat consumption are then analysed and influencing factors, such as rising income but also institutional and cultural factors like e.g. religion, are considered. In the final section, the effect of green technologies in the form of environmental innovation on carbon dioxide emissions is considered in order to analyse the thesis of directed technical changes in terms of its effectiveness in tackling environmental problems.