least cost theorem of pollution control

The Least-Cost Theorem of Pollution Control states that a given amount of environmental pollution reduction can be obtained most economically if it is achieved by targeting the pollution sources whose compliance costs are the lowest. This cost-effectiveness criterion is often applied when attempting to identify which emission sources should be regulated in order to maximize cost-effectiveness. This theorem is important as it provides a basis for prioritizing pollution reduction efforts in relation to cost-effectiveness. It has been used to inform environmental policy discussions by demonstrating which pollution sources can be regulated more cost-effectively than others.