Natural resource efficiency and the road to a green economy: From scarcity to availability

Resource shortage, environmental deterioration, and sustainable development are global issues. This study examines natural resource efficiency and its significance in greening the economy. The research uses the ARDL model to analyze China, a major global economy and resource consumer, from 2005 to 2020. Our study highlights three key findings: First, China's resource efficiency has improved over the analyzed period, with companies adopting cleaner technologies and sustainable practices to reduce their environmental imprint. Second, a decrease in environmental impact, increased usage of renewable energy, and advances in eco-friendly technologies are listed as green economic indicators. Finally, sustainable practices and circular economy techniques increase resource availability as resource efficiency increases and the green economy grows. These findings highlight the need for targeted policies and incentives to improve resource efficiency, including investments in sustainable technologies, circular economy practices, and eco-friendly industry incentives to ensure a sustainable future.