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Resource productivity and sustainability—a comparison of two European countries

Author

Listed:
  • Szilárd Malatyinszki

    (Kodolányi János University (KJE))

  • Zoltán Zéman

    (John von Neumann University (NJE))

  • Botond Géza Kálmán

    (Kodolányi János University (KJE)
    John von Neumann University (NJE)
    Budapest Metropolitan University (METU))

Abstract

This research analyzes resource productivity by identifying key elements and their effects. The goal is to examine resource productivity and GDP-DMC correlations in EU member states, notably Hungary and the Netherlands. Researchers selected Eurostat sustainability statistics based on literature. Regression and path models were used to examine the data. GDP is strongly influenced by DMC, according to the research. The research also found that circular material usage might unexpectedly increase material consumption and lower national GDP. The ratio of GDP to DMC, Resource Productivity, oversimplifies sustainability analysis since its numerator and denominator are not independent. SEM showed that GDP and DMC are not separately explained. GDP is the only evident dependent variable, according to this study. The findings show that understanding the complex relationship between material use and economic production is essential to improving resource productivity and sustainability. Hungary and the Netherlands must develop measures to boost resource productivity while balancing economic development and environmental sustainability.

Suggested Citation

  • Szilárd Malatyinszki & Zoltán Zéman & Botond Géza Kálmán, 2025. "Resource productivity and sustainability—a comparison of two European countries," Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 12(1), pages 1-20, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:palcom:v:12:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1057_s41599-025-04428-4
    DOI: 10.1057/s41599-025-04428-4
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