How will we know if absolute decoupling has been achieved and will it be enough? - Common Approach for DYNAMIX

Citation: Umpfenbach, K. (2015): How will we know if absolute decoupling has been achieved and will it be enough? - Common Approach for DYNAMIX, Deliverable D.1.3., Berlin: Ecologic Institute.

The Common Approach serves to clarify the key concepts and assessment criteria used in DYNAMIX. In particular, it derives working definitions for the the terms 'absolute decoupling', 'resource efficiency', 'paradigm' and 'policy mix'. It is based on a detailed analysis of scientific literature and policy documents as well as intense discussions with stakeholders. Moreover, the team proposes five key targets for resource efficiency policy as a benchmark against which to assess the effectiveness of policy interventions. The pragmatic target set covers metal, land and freshwater use, nutrients input, and greenhouse gas emissions.

In October 2015, the Common Approach was revised to integrate additional insights from the research progress within the project as well as external feedback. In particular, it now integrates relevant findings from the DYNAMIX ex-post policy analysis of existing resource efficiency policies and the development of promising future policy mixes for decoupling. Moreover, the revised version reflects feedback received during conference presentations, discussion at the 2nd and 3rd DYNAMIX Policy Platforms, Advisory Board meetings as well as comments by the project’s scientific reviewer.