Eco-efficiency assessment at firm level: An application to the mining sector

Abstract

Assessing firms' Eco-efficiency is important to ensure they succeed in creating wealth without compromising the needs of future generations. This work aims to extend the Eco-efficiency concept by including in the assessment new features related to environmental benefits. Eco-efficiency is evaluated using a DEA model specified with a Directional Distance Function. The new methodology proposed in this paper is illustrated with an application to world-class mining companies, whose results and managerial implications are discussed.