Regional material flow analysis model based on three-dimensional physical input-output table

Intra-flows, i.e., flows for the distribution, use, and transformation of materials inside economic system, cannot be analyzed by economy-wide material flow analyses. A 3-D physical input-output table-based regional material flow analysis model was developed to analyze intra-flows with the input-output analysis introduced to conceptualize the economic system. The model includes a main input-output table, sub-tables, and supplementary tables to describe all the raw materials, products, and waste including weightless material flows. The model was used to define indicators of regional material flows based on the industrial structure, techniques, and socio-economic conditions. The model can be used to identify material metabolism and the structural characteristics of a regional economic system, to plan natural resource consumption and waste discharge in a region, and to provide decision-making support for regional developmental transformation.