The biophysical economic structure of four developed countries: Lessons for decarbonization

Abstract

This study provides a comparative analysis of the biophysical economic structures of four developed economies—Sweden, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. We draw upon results from input–output models to map and analyze capital, energy, and carbon relationships in each economy. The capital stock of each country is divided into four sectors: (i) energy production and distribution, (ii) production of goods and services for consumption, (iii) residential, and (iv) construction and manufacture of capital. The findings reveal diverse strengths and challenges in decarbonization efforts across the countries. Sweden excels in “energy production and distribution” and “residential” sectors, owing to its commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency, but requires attention in goods and services production where carbon intensity is high. The United Kingdom stands out for its high greenhouse gas intensity in residential capital stock and in the consumption of goods and services, underscoring the need for targeted low-carbon investments. The United States and Canada display high GHG intensities across all sectors, necessitating a more robust transition toward renewable and low-carbon energy solutions. In particular, the United States’ carbon intensity in its energy sector and Canada's industry dominated by fossil fuel extraction offer specific areas for intervention. The study concludes that focusing on sectors with the highest carbon intensity and adopting both sector-specific and broader strategies can significantly accelerate each country's decarbonization efforts, thereby contributing to global climate change mitigation. This article met the requirements for a gold-gold JIE data openness badge described at http://jie.click/badges.