Prelims 2025 · Environment · Question 39
Consider the following statements: Statement I: Circular economy reduces the emissions of greenhouse gases. Statement II: Circular economy reduces the use of raw materials as inputs. Statement III: Circular economy reduces wastage in the production process. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Answer
Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I
Statement I: Correct. A circular economy lowers greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing extraction, manufacturing, and disposal, all of which are emission-intensive.
Statement II: Correct. Circular economy promotes reuse, repair, remanufacturing, and recycling, thereby reducing fresh raw material input. This explains Statement I because lower raw material extraction and processing reduce emissions.
Statement III: Correct. Circular economy aims to minimize waste across production and consumption cycles. This also explains Statement I because less waste means lower energy use and fewer emissions from production and disposal.
Answer: Since Statement II and Statement III are both correct and both explain Statement I, the correct option is (a).