Abstract
An input-output table indicates the cash flow among industries, and hence, an appropriate parameter is required to convert cash flow into material flow. For this purpose, we developed an optimality method for estimating weights using prices. Further, we utilized this method to analyze and assess the material flow in Kanagawa prefecture, Japan, from 1980 to 2000, by using input-output tables. The results from the material flow analysis (MFA) indicated that half the resource input was crude and natural gas. A major portion of this input was consumed by primary industries, secondary industries, tertiary industries, and general consumers. Finished products accounted for more than 90% of the exports from this prefecture. Between 1980 and 1985, this prefecture′s industry structure became export-centered. In 1993, a conference was launched in Kanagawa prefecture to promote environmental conservation. Consequently, in a span of two decades, the total amount of waste including the amount of carbon dioxide decreased by 75%.
