Q. 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?
(a) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I
(b) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I
(c) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I
(d) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct
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Answer & Explanation:
✅Correct Answer: (a) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I
Explanation:
The circular economy is a sustainable economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources. It emphasizes designing products and processes that minimize resource input, waste, pollution, and carbon emissions.
Let’s analyze the statements:
Statement I:
“Circular economy reduces the emissions of greenhouse gases.”
✅ This is correct. A circular economy leads to less extraction of natural resources, improved energy efficiency, and minimized landfill waste — all of which significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
Statement II:
“Circular economy reduces the use of raw materials as inputs.”
✅ This is also correct. Circular practices such as reusing, recycling, and refurbishing aim to use existing materials instead of extracting virgin resources. This directly reduces the demand for raw materials and helps conserve natural resources.
This also explains Statement I, as reducing raw material extraction lowers emissions linked to mining, processing, and transportation.
Statement III:
“Circular economy reduces wastage in the production process.”
✅ This too is correct. By rethinking product design and improving process efficiency, the circular economy minimizes production waste. Examples include lean manufacturing, modular product design, and closed-loop systems.
This also supports Statement I because reduced waste means lower landfill emissions and less incineration — both major sources of greenhouse gases.
Hence, both Statement II (reducing raw materials) and Statement III (reducing waste) are correct and together they provide sufficient explanation for why a circular economy helps in reducing greenhouse gas emissions as stated in Statement I.
Thus, option (a) is the most accurate choice.