Critical Appraisal of Decoupling Theory

Abstract

Economic growth is the leading reason for climate change. Since the 1970’s environmental sociology scholars have debated on the relationships between economic growth, society and nature, and if economic growth can be decoupled from its negative environmental impacts. Decoupling theory believes economic growth is possible to separate from its environmental impacts. This paper bases decoupling to a wider theory of economic modernization, both assuming further modernization and technological advancements will help societies overcome climate change. Economic modernization theory and its opponent treadmill of production are introduced to provide a base and critique for better analysis of decoupling theory throughout the paper. Decoupling theory hasn’t been introduced in such a straightforward relation with economic modernization theory before, which is one of the ways this paper contributes to the wider discussion on strategies to fight climate change.

To establish a critical and thorough overlook of decoupling theory, the paper will introduce the theory by secondary research methods in the light of four essential aspects that are of controversial nature in relation to sustainability: economic growth, rebound effect, resource problem and international trade. Most of the examples included in these sections are ones of natural resources such as rare earth elements that are essential for green technologies. These sections will help the reader to understand the complex nature of decoupling theory, and make the interrelated connections between technology, sustainability, consumption, and growth clearer.

Findings of this paper reveal the uneven environmental burdens of the world and the polluting and scarce nature of some of the green solutions the modern society has come up with such as technologies related to renewable energy. According to decoupling, modernization must continue, and a sustainable future can be obtained through circular economy practices with high-income countries executing absolute decoupling with absolute reductions in consumption, while low-income countries must be secured with a solid social base to execute sustainable development by relative decoupling measures and leapfrogging operations. Overall environmental consciousness and better understanding of global value chains and footprints must be promoted so that realistic green innovation can take place. Most importantly, decoupling does not happen spontaneously but requires active work in policy level, consumer level and as resource efficiency gains.