According to the circular economy excerpt, what primary benefit results from preserving 'embodied energy' across lifecycles?

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Systematic reduction in the demand for newly extracted virgin materials

  1. Step 1: The text notes: 'By retaining high-value embodied energy within materials across cascading lifecycles, industrial dependency on virgin raw material extraction is systematically curtailed.'
  2. Step 2: Reducing reliance on virgin extraction is the primary stated advantage.
Answer
Systematic reduction in the demand for newly extracted virgin materials.
Why not the others: 'Elimination of all manufacturing labour requirements' is not mentioned and unsupported; 'Instantaneous generation of renewable electricity...' misunderstands material embodied energy; 'Total eradication of consumer goods maintenance costs' contradicts the need for repair and refurbishment.

Practise more Academic Reading: Global Ecology and Urban Planning.

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