Chapter Questions
Economies grow by investing in new sources of productivity, new plants and equipment, infrastructure such as roads, and so on. How does this type of investment affect the flows depicted in Figure 2.1?
What is the difference between a residual and a pollutant? Illustrate this in the context of a common airborne emission such as sulfur dioxide $\left(\mathrm{SO}_2\right)$; with noise; with junked automobiles; with an unsightly building.
Why are long-lived, cumulative pollutants so much harder to manage than short-lived, noncumulative pollutants?
As depicted in Figure 2.3, most emissions from individual sources get mixed in with those of other sources, to produce the general level of ambient quality. What problems does this present in adopting emission-control policies to get a cleaner environment?
Consider the production and use of single-use, plastic shopping bags, and examine their flows along all parts of Figure 2.1. Do the same for paper shopping bags.
What considerations come into play when considering whether a country or any other political entity is spending the right amount for environmental quality improvements?
Suppose there is a technological change that allows firms to produce goods and services with less pollution. How would this affect the production possibilities curves of Figure 2.2, and where might society choose to locate itself on this curve?