THE MAGIC TRIANGLE OF INPUT-OUTPUT TABLES

Input-output tables (l-O tables) can play an important role in delivering a suitable data base for studies on sustainable development. Experience has shown that the quality of specialized studies on various aspects of sustainability is enhanced by drawing on l-O tables presented in different units, such as: l-O tables in monetary units for economic issues; l-O tables in physical units (tonnes etc.) for ecological issues; l-O tables in time units for social issues. This article gives a detailed description of the advantages and disadvantages of the three types of units for presenting l-O data. For illustrative purposes, comparable l-O tables using the above-mentioned different types of units are shown describing the German economy in the year 1990. The production boundary is extended to all paid and unpaid human activities, consumer durables and educational services are treated as investment goods.