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Climate Quote by Kim Stanley Robinson

“There's Jevon's paradox that the better we get at efficiently using energy the more energy we use; so that and that machine technology improvements per se do not necessarily reduce our impacts because we immediately double down on how much we use.” quote by Kim Stanley Robinson
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“There's Jevon's paradox that the better we get at efficiently using energy the more energy we use; so that and that machine technology improvements per se do not necessarily reduce our impacts because we immediately double down on how much we use.”

Kim Stanley Robinson

About This Quote

Source Book: New York 2004, Kim Stanley Robinson, 2017

Improved efficiency often leads to increased consumption, offsetting environmental benefits.

In simple terms: Efficiency can cause more use.

Key Takeaway

Consider demand limits when improving efficiency.

Themes

environment economics technology behavior policy

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

cautionary insightful

When to use this quote

  • energy policy
  • product design
  • urban planning
  • consumer habits
  • industrial scaling

Key Concepts

Jevon paradox rebound effect resource consumption

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we design policies that prevent rebound?
  • What incentives reduce overconsumption?
A Different Perspective

Ignoring demand growth can nullify efficiency gains.

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