This article introduces the concept of "wasted GDP," arguing that GDP is wasted if it doesn't improve human welfare. Using the USA as a case study, the author analyzes Human Development Index (HDI) data to demonstrate that many countries outperform the USA on HDI despite having significantly lower GDP per capita. This suggests a substantial portion of US GDP is wasted from a human development perspective. The analysis estimates that the USA could have achieved similar or better HDI outcomes with substantially lower GDP, resulting in millions of tons less CO2 emissions and a smaller material footprint.

Morten Tønnessen