Environmental Economics
Environmental Economics explores how economic principles, policies, and market dynamics influence the management and protection of environmental resources. By applying economic tools—such as supply and demand analysis, cost-benefit evaluation, and market-based incentives—to ecological issues, students will learn how societies can balance development goals with environmental stewardship. The course examines both the limitations and the potential of markets to address environmental challenges, focusing on topics like externalities, public goods, and environmental valuation.
Students will consider the economic rationale behind environmental regulations, the role of property rights, and the effectiveness of taxes, subsidies, and cap-and-trade programs in mitigating pollution and resource depletion. Through case studies, learners will evaluate how economic strategies can guide sustainable resource use, influence corporate behavior, and shape consumer choices. By the end of the course, students will be able to interpret economic data, engage with policy debates, and propose evidence-based solutions that promote a healthier environment and more equitable distribution of resources.
Curriculum
- 5 Sections
- 10 Lessons
- 0 Quizzes
- 0 Assignments
- 0m Duration
Section 1: Foundations of Environmental Economics
- Module 1.1: Key Economic Concepts and the Environment
- Module 1.2: Environmental Goods, Public Goods, and Market Failure
Section 2: Valuing the Environment
- Module 2.1: Ecosystem Services and Non-Market Valuation
- Module 2.2: Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) in Environmental Decision-Making
Section 3: Policy Instruments and Incentives
- Module 3.1: Command-and-Control vs.
- Module 3.2: Property Rights and Environmental Management
Section 4: Sectoral and Global Perspectives
- Module 4.1: Energy, Climate, and Sustainability Economics
- Module 4.2: Global Environmental Issues and Trade
Section 5: Equity, Justice, and Future Directions
- Module 5.1: Environmental Justice and Distributional Impacts
- Module 5.2: Innovations and Emerging Trends