Introduction to environmental economics

An understanding of economics is vital to any understanding of why environmental problems occur and what best to do about them. This book provides an introduction to the subject of environmental economics which does not assume any in-depth prior knowledge of economics. Part one explains the fundamental economic concepts, using environmental examples, including markets, environmental evaluation, risk, and trade. Part two then sets these concepts to work in understanding and developing policy responses to some of the major environmental issues of our time. Examples are drawn from all over the world and include such vital global issues as climate change, water pollution, and the loss of biodiversity.

Clearly written, global in approach, and theoretically broad-minded, this new text is an ideal introduction both to the study of environmental economics and to the question of how economics can provide tools for improving our global environment.

*Coverage of problems such as climate change, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity provides an invaluable global overview of the most pressing environmental issues of our time

*Assessment of different theoretical approaches to environmental economics provides a key to understanding the various possible policy responses to major environmental issues

*Case studies of environmental problems from across the world combine a global picture with in-depth descriptions of specific concrete examples

Nick Hanley is Professor of Environmental Economics at the University of Glasgow. Jason F. Shogren is Stroock Distinguished Professor of Natural Resource Conservation and Management and Professor of Economics at the University of Wyoming.

Ben White is Senior Lecturer in Agricultural Economics at the University of Newcastle and Adjunct Senior Lecturer in Agricultural Economics at the University of Western Australia.