Which of the following best represents an economic cost to society for decreasing the levels of pollution?
A) Decreases in pollution levels result in a decreased mortality rate.
B) The recreational value of our environment is increased with reduced pollution.
C) Reducing pollution frequently increases the life span of capital goods and leads to decreased maintenance costs.
D) Programs to reduce pollution often lead to firms' closing plants and putting people out of work.
E) Recycling solid wastes has reduced communities' garbage collection costs.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Programs to reduce pollution can result in firms closing plants and workers losing their jobs. This represents an economic cost to society, as it can lead to unemployment and a decrease in economic activity. While the other options also represent benefits to society, such as increased health and environmental quality, they do not represent economic costs.

Which of the Following Best Represents an Economic Cost to Society