📌 The Question:
Consider the following statements:

Statement I: Circular economy reduces the emissions of greenhouse gases.
Statement II: Circular economy reduces the use of raw materials as inputs.
Statement III: Circular economy reduces wastage in the production process.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
(a) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I
(b) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I
(c) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I
(d) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct

✅ Correct Answer: (a)

🔍 Classroom Explanation:

Statement I — Correct

• Circular economy models significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by minimizing energy-intensive processes such as raw material extraction, processing, and waste disposal.

Statement II — Correct (Explains I)

• A core principle of the circular economy is reducing dependence on virgin/raw materials through reuse, recycling, remanufacturing, and life-extension of products.
• Since extraction and processing of raw materials are major sources of emissions, reducing them directly lowers GHG emissions.

Statement III — Correct (Explains I)

• Circular economy aims to design out waste at every stage of production.
• Less waste means lower emissions from landfills, incineration, and inefficient production systems.

👉 Hence, both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both explain Statement I.

🧠 Curiosity Raiser:
Did you know that material extraction and processing alone account for nearly 50% of global CO₂ emissions?

📚 Enrich Notes (Prelims Edge):

• Circular Economy = Reduce + Reuse + Recycle + Recover
• Strongly linked with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production)
• Key climate tool alongside renewable energy
• Promoted by EU Green Deal, UNEP, and India’s LiFE Mission

🕊️ IAS Monk Whisper:
“When waste disappears, emissions follow.”