Research of influence of structural changes in economy on environmental pollution

The impact of economic development on the environment of the region is researched. The relationship between economic and environmental indicators is investigated for the Republic of Karelia. Models describing this interaction are developed. The concept of a neutral environmental progress, which reflects the impact of structural changes and modernization, is introduced. Calculations based on Karelian data concerning air emission and waste water leakage are carried out. The impact of structural change in economy on the dynamics of environmental indicators is showed. A decisive role of structural changes affecting pollution reduction in the 2000s is revealed.