Ánalisis comparativo de la intensidad material de las economías de alto ingreso y de latinoamérica en el período 1990-2017.

Abstract

This research conducts a comparative analysis of material intensity between high-income countries and Latin American countries for the period 1990-2017, using the framework of ecological economics and the concept of social metabolism. Through panel data models, countries are grouped into different clusters based on their income levels, the region they belong to, and the trends in material intensity during the study period. The results reveal divergent trajectories in material intensity, as high-income countries show trends opposite to those observed in Latin American countries. High-income economies exhibit processes of dematerialization - that is, less material utilization to produce one unit of GDP, while Latin American countries show processes of materialization in their economies. These results suggest the need to reconsider the extractive model followed by Latin American countries, advocating instead for a shift towards the development of human capital, especially in the services sector. The analysis also includes China and India, considering their unique demographic characteristics. This research contributes to the understanding of sustainable development and provides insights for policymakers to address resource use and the economic models that guide development policy.