Sustainability of non-renewable resources: the case of marble in Macael (Spain)

Abstract

This study analyzes the evolution of a region whose economy is based on marble—a natural, non-renewable resource—which has also managed to improve its protection of the environment. A development plan promoted by the local government in the 1980s made it possible to assess local extraction companies and provide them with better technology, consequently increasing the yield of reserves and the quality of the final product, while also extending the life cycle of the deposit. Furthermore, new companies began to emerge which made use of materials that had previously been discarded. Finally, investments in research were responsible for introducing new artificial composite substitutes to the market. These actions have helped to reduce product extractions and improve its sustainability.