Product Description
Environmental Economics is the first text to concentrate solely on environmental economics--the problems of earth, air, and water pollution from an economic perspective--with an emphasis on both government regulation and private-sector anti-pollution incentives.

With the assumption that readers already have an understanding of intermediate microeconomics, the book reaches into more detail ontheory and analysis than most other textbooks in this area. Now fully revised in its second edition, Environmental Economics is divided into four primary sections: the first section defines the field of environmental economics in relation to general economics and to ecological and resource economics; the second section is normative, looking at market failure and asks why, even with apparent environmental protection, the market often fails to work properly; the third section is positive, examining government regulation of pollution using the industrial organization literature; and the final section covers more advanced topics, looking at risk, uncertainty, green accounting, international competition and cooperation and development.

Including many international examples, the book places special emphasis on the ways that countries around the world approach and control their own environmental problems. Environmental Economics, Second Edition, is ideal for undergraduate economics courses and beginning graduate courses in environmental management.


New to this Edition
* Utilizes a new structure: the first part is normative, the second part positive
* Provides an updated treatment of valuation and moves it to the first part of the text
* Substantially revises coverage of cost-benefit analysis, property rights, and market failure, resulting in greater clarity
* Includes new chapters on voluntary environmental protection and additional sections on discounting and dynamics
* Offers increased coverage of open access resources and fisheries
* The technical level throughout the text is much more consistent from chapter to chapter ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

So So
Purchased for an Eviro Econ Course.Book covers most topics, weak on valuation.Full of typos.Discussion of many topics very convoluted.Not an easy read.

Great introduction to Environmental Economics .
Actual rating - 4.5 stars .

I read this book as a must-read for the Environmental Economics course I had taken in the beginning of the last semester . I think this book is a great choice for students that are interested in this topic . Myself , I didn't know what to expect in the beginning of the course , but it turned up to be a surprisingly interesting and important issue - with the good help of this book .

I have to say that I've learned a lot from reading this book , and it has been a pleasant experience too . Professor Kolstad has really accomplished a commendable achievement in writing a fluent , methodical , thorough and interesting book about Environmental Economics , nearly everyone who wishes to , can read and understand .

I say it as a student who hasn't read other works on the subject , but nevertheless , feels this book has many pluses as an introduction to this subject :

- The author , in spite of announcing it is a book for persons that have taken an Intermediate Microeconomics courses , makes far-reaching efforts to explain nearly every statement he proclaimed . This is a good feature students can use for reviewing forgotten material , deleting the need to use more fundamental books for understanding .

- Significant number of chapters includes a small use of mathematic tools . This fact is of considerable help for the layman , who is interested in expending horizons and lacks the necessary mathematical skills .

I believe the following points characterize many tutorials , but it's important to note them anyway;

- Every figure the author uses is accompanied with detailed explanations that enhance the reader's ability to understand the sketch and the whole subject while at it .

- Every chapter includes an introduction and a summery . The first connects the chapter to the previous one , and assists in grasping the place it takes in the big picture of things , while the second one summarize the major issues dealt with . This functions organize the material and construct an understandable structure of knowledge .

- One last thing , that consists an advantage constructed with disadvantage is the appearance of questions and problems in the end of each chapter , in the obvious order to help you check out your understanding , but with the irritating absence of answers and solutions (!) . What's the point in composing personal examinations without any achievable , certified solutions ? How can I know I am right ? I recommend authors to annex a booklet/extra pages with the correct answers , along with a full description of the way to the solution plus explanations - if you include such a tutorial tool in your book - do it right .

Excluding the last disadvantage , I'm most pleased with this book , and would recommend it for anyone who is interested in environment and its protection problems

complete and comprenhensive
This book is more than a simple overview of the wide environmental economics world, since it embraces the subject in a clear, comprenhensive but in-depth enough to get a very good picture of it. ... Read more

Product Description
Environmental Economics is an introduction to the basic principles of environmental economics as they have been developed in the past and as they continue to evolve.The examples discussed in this textbook represent only a sample of the full range of issues that actually exists.For this reason, the Fifth Edition sticks to the basic ideas and ways that environmental economists have found to make the basic concepts and models more specific and relevant to concrete environmental issues.The basic structure and sequence of chapters are unchanged but contains new and updated material that reflects the new research efforts by environmental economists over the last few years. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

environmental economics
Learn how our environmental regulations really impact our economy and what the true cost of clean up is.

Excellent Intro to Environ reesource economics
This book holds an excewllent treatment of the range and focus of topics which fall under the environmental resource economics realm.The author addresses both the fundamentals and advanced social concepts mixed withexcellent examples of the economic principles which resource managers mustmake during the policy process and the inherent problems these policiespresent.A must read for anyone interested in working in the publicsector. ... Read more

Product Description
Succed in economics with, ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS AND MANAGEMENT: THEORY, POLICY AND APPLICATIONS. Learn to use economic analytical tools such as market models, benefit-cost analysis, and risk analysis to assess environmental problems and to evaluate policy solutions. Margin definitions and internet links help you master the terminology and offer updates and information beyond the text. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Speedy Delivery
Even though I had this book FedExed because i needed it for class during the same week. The description was 100% accurate and I had no problems

Very Helpful!
The book contains VERY thorough explanations!Sometimes the equations are hard to follow, but overall, a very resourceful academic tool! ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (1)

May be the the best book on this subject
This is the book for those who already have some background in micro economics. So I will not recommend the book for the fresh student. However, if you know some mathematics and have studied micro economics: This is the book for you. In fact it is the best book I have seen on this subject. ... Read more

Product Description
The new edition of "Environmental and Natural Resources Economics" provides an accessible yet rigorous treatment of the subject, including the economics of sustainability. This up-to-date and innovative textbook is designed for economics majors as well as students in interdisciplinary programs, such as environmental science and policy. The new edition has been updated extensively throughout. A new chapter has been added on fisheries economics and policy, and the chapter on global climate change has been substantially rewritten to incorporate new scientific information and evolving public policy. Many new figures and tables have been added, and the glossary has also been expanded. Instructors will find that students appreciate the balanced and accessible coverage, and the integration of economics with science and public policy. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Good book, some errors, but good.
Hackett's book does good at introducing microeconomics from an Environmental perspective. The content is not very weighty, and in fact makes for gentle, yet, stimulating reading. He opens by discussing "Ethical Systems of thoughts" and differentiating between price and value. His book then delves a bit deeper into the actual theory whereupon we are introduced to Marginal Benefits, Marginal Costs, Equilibrium, & Market Failure, which is precursory to Externalities. He's even bold enough to introduce Kantian ethics in his short discourse which also includes deontology and teleology. The book is well structured, and although interspersed with some errors (which Hackett has apparently desisted from communicating with me about)it's a swell book overall.
I definitely recommend reading this book alongside Ian Hodge's "Environmental Economics"

Economics isn't just about money!
"Economics is the study of how scarce resources are allocated among competing uses."- Steven Hackett starts with the basics, perhaps recognizing that many readers (like this reviewer)have a limited, if not non-existent level of knowledge of a subject that controls our lives.Contrary to widespread opinion, economics is not the dismal science, and neither is it an esoteric exercise that is limited to the likes of Alan Greenspan.Hackett's definition of scarcity is similarly enlightening as his definition of economics - "something is said to be scarce when, at a zero price, more is wanted than is available."So most things are scarce, and everyone makes economic decisions about allocating scarce resources, whether or not those allocation decisions involve money and market transactions. From those basic definitions and more, Hackett proceeds to explain and expand upon the value systems and the allocation decisions that we make as individuals and as a society.As the title implies, "Environmental and Natural Resource Economics" concentrates on the decisions that are made about the use of natural resources, including wilderness, forests, minerals, and fisheries. He also discusses pollution and the options for controlling pollution, including market mechanisms for pollution reduction.Sustainable development is a major theme of the book and Hackett explains a variety of approaches to sustainability.For anyone who wants more than an emotional opinion on the environment and the choices that society must make in its use of the environment, Steven Hackett provides a readable and valuable introduction to a subject of critical importance. ... Read more

Product Description
This comprehensive and popular textbook is a core text for undergraduate students of environmental economics, and also appeals to geographers and environmentalists. The book deals fully with the orthodox theorems of the economics of pollution and optimal depletion rates for natural resources. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A Pareto optimum
The authors give a very good insight on the economics of the environment and polution. How a pareto optimum is received by the benefits and costs of polution. Also how innovation and tax affects production and polution. I am not a student but just interested in economics. The graphs make it understandable and a good book to read.

Resource models explained
A super helpful book for non-econ, calculus-literate students of environmental science.For environmental econ students, here's an excellence reference book that explains the basic models more thoroughly than most other environmental econ books. Also includes a reasonable amount of bibliographical information to start off research in the discipline. ... Read more

Product Description

The tools of environmental economics guide policymakers as they weigh development against nature, present against future, and certain benefits against uncertain consequences. From reluctant-but-necessary calculations of the value of life, to moral quandaries over profits at the environment’s expense, the models and findings explained in this textbook are relevant to today’s more pressing dilemmas.

The third edition of Environmental Economics and Natural Resource Management retains the application-based narratives and visual emphasis of the second edition, while covering the latest policy initiatives, following recent trends, and becoming even more user friendly. An expanded array of color photographs, diagrams, and other visual aids provide new perspectives on global environmental and resource issues.

The book covers topics including:

• efficiency and cost-benefit analysis
• natural resource management
• globalization
• environmental ethics
• population growth and poverty.

This fascinating textbook will be invaluable to students undertaking courses in environmental economics, ecological economics, and environmental and resource economics. The book includes an online Instructor’s Guide with answers to all the practice problems as well as downloadable slides of figures and tables from the book.

Product Description

Tropical rainforests are disappearing due to agricultural intensification and climate change, causing irreversible losses in biodiversity and associated ecosystem functioning. Ecosystem properties and human well-being are profoundly influenced by environmental change, which is often not considered during land use intensification. Understanding these processes needs an integrated scientific approach linking ecological, economic and social perspectives at different scales, from the household and village level to landscapes and regions. The chapters in this book cover a broad range of topical research areas, from sustainable agroforestry management, climate change effects on rainforests and agroforests to integrated concepts of land use in tropical landscapes.

Product Description
Understanding why environmental problems occur and what best to do about them is much facilitated by an understanding of economics. This book provides an introduction to the subject of environmental economics which does not assume an in-depth prior understanding 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.

Introduction to Environmental Economics examines both a wide range of environmental case studies and also assesses a variety of economic theories and their approach to environmental issues. 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. ... Read more

Product Description
"Environmental Economics" provides a comprehensive introduction to the dynamic relationship between economics and environmental policy. The authors offer a broad overview of important issues, including the changing role of economics during a time of increasing environmental concern, the impact of markets and governmental policy, environmental protection through economic mechanisms, and a practical look at how environmental economics are played out in commercial and scientific arenas. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Not a typical cryptic economics textbook
I bought this book when I was doing my Master's in Economics. Back then it helped me learn a great deal about environmental economics on my own (without a teacher).It is written in accessible language (not your typical cryptic economics text book), full of examples and honest in the way it presents the information -form this point of view the problem is this way, from that point of view the problem is this other way.
I now also hold a Master's in Environmental Studies and a PhD in Geography specializing in Energy and Transportation issues.For the past few years I have returned to it again and again for reference.While the edition is old (1993), it is still a great basic introduction and has good references for where to go next if you are looking for more depth or a more advanced treatment of the subject.

Propably the best introducory textbook on the market
Of the four textbooks on the subject I've been through, this one scores the best credit. Within ecological economics there are two schools of thought. One is basically environmentalist in the sense that views the causes of environmental degradation, as being the economic system AS SUCH. Herman Daly is propably the most wellknown representant of this school. The other school deals with environmental problems as being a 'problem of getting the prices right'. This book is mostly concerned with the latter approach.Several aspects of this book ranks it above average. These are: 1) Although the book primarily deals with the market-approach, it actually covers all aspects of environmentalism, ranging from standard economics to deep ecology, treating each of the in a sober manner, 2) the book is very goos at pinpointing the problematic aspects of different theories, 3) The conclusions are supported by empirical evidence, presented in a readable and realevant manner 4) it really covers the breadth of the field, leaving you with a great overview of the topics you can specialize in, 5) it avoids some of the most common misunderstandings of the field, e.g. by specificly stating the difference between non-property resources and common property resources. All In all: It is a very recommendable book for those who are about to be introduced to the field of ecological economics. ... Read more

Product Description

Conventional economics is increasingly criticized for failing to reflect the value of clean air and water, species diversity, and social and generational equity. By excluding biophysical and social reality from its analyses and equations, conventional economics seems ill-suited to address problems in a world characterized by increasing human impacts and decreasing natural resources.

Ecological Economics is an introductory-level textbook for an emerging paradigm that addresses this fundamental flaw in conventional economics. The book defines a revolutionary "transdiscipline" that incorporates insights from the biological, physical, and social sciences, and it offers a pedagogically complete examination of this exciting new field. The book provides students with a foundation in traditional neoclassical economic thought, but places that foundation within a new interdisciplinary frameworkthat embraces the linkages among economic growth, environmental degradation, and social inequity.

Introducing the three core issues that are the focus of the new transdiscipline -- scale, distribution, and efficiency -- the book is guided by the fundamental question, often assumed but rarely spoken in traditional texts: What is really important to us? After explaining the key roles played by the earth’s biotic and abiotic resources in sustaining life, the text is then organized around the main fields in traditional economics: microeconomics, macroeconomics, and international economics. The book also takes an additional step of considering the policy implications of this line of thinking.

Ecological Economics includes numerous features that make it accessible to a wide range of students:

• more than thirty text boxes that highlight issues of special importance to students
• lists of key terms that help students organize the main points in each chapter
• concise definitions of new terms that are highlighted in the text for easy reference
• study questions that encourage student exploration beyond the text
• glossary and list of further readings

An accompanying workbook presents an innovative, applied problem-based learning approach to teaching economics.

While many books have been written on ecological economics, and several textbooks describe basic concepts of the field, this is the only stand-alone textbook that offers a complete explanation of both theory and practice. It will serve an important role in educating a new generation of economists and is an invaluable new text for undergraduate and graduate courses in ecological economics, environmental economics, development economics, human ecology, environmental studies, sustainability science, and community development." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

The future of economic thinking - Great book for lay-people, policy-makers, and economists.
Unusual economic times call for unusual economics book reviews, right? To this end, I am writing a review of an economics textbook. Yes, a textbook, named Ecological Economics, Principles and Applications by Herman E. Daly and Joshua Farley. As society navigates through our global economic meltdown, I keep noticing that a lot of what I read in the media is fundamentally based on the assumption of an economic return to the good times. Maybe there will be more regulations; maybe GAAP rules will be stricter; maybe we'll have fewer or more or different automobile manufacturers. But surely we'll get back to good ol' growth of the economy (and how to do it forever), won't we? Far too few writers challenge our fundamental assumptions about the economy itself-- those same assumptions we used to dig ourselves into the present financial mess, not to mention the assumptions at the root of the ecological and human-rights crises that are now a daily fixture in the news. What if some of our assumptions about the fundamental purpose and functioning of the economy were wrong? Shouldn't we fix those old assumptions before we recreate the same "good times" that resulted in our present bad times? If the planet were unable to sustain our civilization unless we get the economy right this time, wouldn't we have an ethical duty to reconsider some of those assumptions?

Enter Ecological Economics. Ecological economics (EE), as a field of study, uses the best science available about how the universe behaves, in order to envision an economy that works within the constraints of nature. Three fundamental issues are the core of EE: optimal scale of the economy, just distribution of resources, and efficient allocation. Compare this to traditional, neo-classical economics, which focuses singularly on efficient allocation via market mechanisms.

EE breaks down traditional academic silos. If there were laws of physics which scientists believed to be true under all circumstances-- say, the laws of thermodynamics --then wouldn't you expect economists to avoid negating those laws in their model of the economy? And let's say social scientists found that people do not always make rational, self-motivated decisions to maximize their happiness. Wouldn't you want economists to not assume the opposite in their model of how markets operate? EE also rightfully recognizes the economy as a subsystem within the larger ecology of the earth. This ecology certainly provides for the economy, but it also does a lot of other neat stuff. Take, for example, regulating climate and providing clean air and fresh water, for which there are no manufactured substitutes. As it turns out, much of that "other neat stuff" is not historically encompassed by the economy, nor is it amenable to efficient allocation on a market.

Ecological Economics, as a book, does a fantastic job of outlining the principles of EE. It explains the failings of old economic assumptions, and lays out a different set of assumptions grounded in science or rooted in principles of justice. The book covers its subject with appropriate humility for a new social science, an uncommon virtue among economic pontificators. It doesn't claim to have the territory fully mapped, but it is exploring in the right direction. By this time you've gathered that the book is not fiction (we'll leave the fiction writing to neo-classical economists), but it is an enjoyable read. The easy, lucid writing style belies the authors' status as professors of economics. While the book might not be the optimal read for laying on the beach, it is fine for lay-people. The book is full of examples relating the material to the real world, and I find many of the concepts immediately relevant to how I perceive reality. The content is nicely structured so you can skip over anything that gets too dense for your taste. Finally, the book is an efficient read. It is chock full of economic principles which would have taken me years of fumbling self-study to pick up on my own. The high-level sections are: An Introduction to Ecological Economics; The Containing and Sustaining Ecosystem: The Whole; Microeconomics; Macroeconomics; International Trade; and Policy.

I have heard it said that not all of the book's assertions are grounded in science or research, which is criticism I assume the authors would strive to address in future editions. On the whole, however, I find the book to be well grounded. I'll take Daly & Farley any day, compared to neo-classical economists who accept as fact the words of an 18th century moral philosopher. I have also heard the critique that Ecological Economics doesn't adequately cover the fundamentals of economics, which means a "real" student of economics would have to go back to a traditional economics text to fill in the gaps. I would reframe this critique as a misguided assumption about what students of economics must learn first. What do you imagine would happen if all budding economists were first grounded in what science knows of ecology, before internalizing the historic account of economic thinking which has brought society to our present global economic break-down? One book does not an economist make. But if it did, this is the book I would recommend. For the rest of us, Ecological Economics is a clear, useful, and enjoyable guide to turning over those old assumptions about what the economy is for and how it works.

Should be required reading for all government officials.
I'm not really prone to hyperbole, but this may be the single most important book ever written.There could be another that is more complete, another that is more understandable, another that is more honest, and another that is more relevant and crucial for the policies that will determine what our world looks like in 100 years.However, you'd probably be very hard-pressed to find those qualities in such effective combination as here in "Ecological Economics".

This book can be understood to a large degree by someone with minimal training in economics or maybe even an intelligent person with none.There are some sections and some formulae that are difficult, but these are not really necessary to get the message.This book follows a logical plan and the authors show respect for their reader's intelligence by presenting a logical progression of theory.This book has a message but it is not preachy.The message simply arises from logic.

Actually, not only do I believe it should be required of government officials, but probably voters as well.

4.5 stars.Yes. Speculative bubbles inevitably lead to economic downturns
The authors of this book demonstrate a deep understanding of the negative role and impact on econmic growth that results fromspeculation in national and international currencies,stocks,and other financial assets.This book is especially strong in chapters 13 and 14 where they discuss macroeconomics and the effects of worldwide speculative activity.The Nobel Prize winning chemist,Fredrick Soddy,whose 1930'sbook " Wealth,Virtual Wealth,and Debt ", demonstrated an excellent understanding of the dangers of speculative finance,is given his due along with Keynes(pp.256-257),who had always understood the severe negative impacts speculative finance can have on both economic growth and income distribution.

The intellectual rigor of the authorssufferson pp.224-225 when they discuss Adam Smith's Invisible Hand .It is simply not the case that Smith took the view(micro economic decision making in the aggregatealways leads to an optimal macro economic outcome )foisted on him.Smith himself was well aware of the great dangers ofspeculation(see Smith's extensive discussions on pp.290-340 of the Wealth of Nations[1776,Modern Library(Cannan)edition] and the need to prevent it from occurring in the first place ,as well as the negative consequences of the Invisible Hand process that could only be overcome by government action(see pp.734-741 on the necessity for the government to provide universal education supplied for free for those unable to pay).

A serious intro to eco-economy
Book recomendations, index, glossary, macroeconomics, microeconomics, a very didactic book made for anyone interested in the subject or people already familiar with economics. The first day I read 100 pages non-stop. Different from some other books on the theme, this is not a book to build anyones consciousness(and definitely not eco-economics for dummies)but a realistic transdisciplinary outlook on the subject.

best textbook ever
And I'm not just saying that because I like ecological economics.Before this I used to hate even the idea of textbooks...mostly the fault of high school I guess, but also many college courses. In fact that is the reason why I hesitated to buy this book, but I'm glad I did.This is the only textbook I have been able to read straight through (though slowly and critically) and maintain my focus, interest, and energy.It's very well written and organized, and it's honest and upfront, highlighting debates and differences in opinions, as well as their implications.It is even entertaining on a fairly regular basis.

No prior knowledge of economics or natural sciences is necessary, though of course having some helps to make it an easier read.The 2nd edition should take care of some of the minor typos and other editing mistakes.I have seen no serious flaws in the book.

If you
1) Have an open mind
2) Respect solid, provocative arguments that challenge the status-quo
3) Are interested in the nature of the relationship between humans and our environment, economics, ecology, sustainability, social justice, or democracy
4) Have tried a standard econ. course and was frustrated by the hordes of inane and offensive or otherwise false assumptions, contradictions and overall lack of scholarly rigor
You will probably enjoy this book.

I also suggest getting the companion workbook, especially if you are
1) A student (of any age, shape or form)
2) Interested particularly in the fields of environmental policy/management, economics, or ecological economics or
3) Interested in the education system and education reform.

It has valuable supplemental information as well as suggestions on how to advance your knowledge and possibly put you into a career path.The pedagogical philosophy espoused in the book is great from my perspective--a student frustrated with the hypocrisies and contradictions of academia and our current education system.Farley makes it clear that fundamental education reform is necessary in order to advance democracy and for us to continue to develop into our greatest human potentials. ... Read more

Product Description

This text has been written primarily for the specialist market of second and third year undergraduate and post-graduate students of economics. The clear explanations and basic principles that underpin the text, however, make it readily accessible to non-economists coming to environmental economics from diverse programmes of study.

Natural Resource and Environmental Economics is among the leading textbooks in its field. Well written and rigorous in its approach, this third edition follows in the vein of previous editions and continues to provide a comprehensive and clear account of the application of economic analysis to environmental issues. This new edition has evolved with the times and been thoroughly updated to reflect recent developments in environmental issues and policies, such as forestry, biodiversity and pollution control. The early chapters explain the development and role of environmental economics before further chapters advance the student at a suitably challenging but achievable level.

Customer Reviews (2)

The Bible of Environmental Economics
I am brazilian, and I am now studying Economy in the Rio de Janeiro Federal University (UFRJ). We have a research group about environmental economy and the first thing that the head teacher of the group told me was : "Buy roger Perman`s book. He is the bible of this subject".

And that`s what i`ve done !

A Good Book!
I first met the book in the uni library. Having been teaching natural resources and environmental economics, I find this intermediate textbook with is useful and worthy of recommendating for those postgraduates whohave strong interests in theoretical exploration. Since almost alltextbooks in the market are elementary and are not suitable for theadvanced readers, this book with new approaches has been increasingly usedin the uni. However, this book does not pay enough attention toenvironmental policy. This should be considered by the authors when thethird edition is composed. ... Read more

Product Description

Though many students and environmentalists shudder at even the thought of economics, a working knowledge of the basics can be a powerful ally. Economic arguments carry a great deal of weight, and putting them to work for environmental causes can be a deciding factor, especially in policy debates. The reverse is true as well, and an understanding of the possibly flawed, misleading, or overstated economics behind an opponent's case can be crucially important.

Environmental Economics for Tree Huggers and Other Skeptics carefully explains the tools of economic analysis and shows how they can be used to help reveal the root causes of and potential solutions for environmental and natural resource problems. Jaeger's proven techniques and wonderfully conversational tone assume no economics training, and his presentation of the material is designed to facilitate clarity. His step-by-step approach unearths surprisingly simple, easy-to-remember principles and shows how to apply them to real-world environmental problems.

Those with exposure to introductory microeconomics will find Environmental Economics for Tree Huggers and Other Skeptics to be a welcome refresher. Undergraduate and graduate students of environmental studies, resource management, law, policy, and related fields, as well as novices who are skeptical of how the field could possibly help them in their own efforts, will be pleasantly surprised.

Customer Reviews (1)

Orthodox neoclassical treatment
A better title for this book would be "Environmental Economics for Skeptics about Tree-Huggers". Its viewpoint hews very faithfully to the Econ 101 textbook version of neoclassical microeconomics. The author (WKJ) occasionally mentions other points of view in order to seem fair, but these are reassuringly dismissed.

For example, consider WKJ's discussion of the so-called "environmental Kuznets curve".The EKC is an alleged empirical relationship between economic development and declines in pollution; its biggest fans are neoliberal economists who claim that the solution to environmental problems is more, not less, economic activity. WKJ does mention that "the dust has definitely not settled on this debate [sc., about the reality of the EKC]," but goes on to say "[but] some important ideas have emerged" (@100). With that phrase, WKJ flips the discussion to make the EKC appear much less controversial than it actually is. The problem with the EKC is as time goes by, empirical evidence seems very much against it, especially for non-localized issues like global warming. No worries: WKJ tells us that "the absence of evidence of an EKC for some environmental indicators should not be construed as proof that the EKC notion is invalid." He spends the next 3-1/2 pages discussing why the EKC is "good news" (@104). For more nuanced evaluations of the EKC even within the framework of conventional econometrics (i.e., NOT by tree-huggers), see, e.g., D. Stern's 2004 paper, "The Rise and Fall of the Environmental Kuznets Curve" and the 2006 paper by Galeotti & al., "On the Robustness of Robustness Checks of the Environmental Kuznets Curve," both of which you can find for free online.

The insincere appearance of fairness isn't the only rhetorical tactic used by WKJ to deal with difficult topics. Ignoring the difficulties is another, as when after a very confusing description of the construction of a staircase-shaped demand curve for cookies in a hypothetical classroom (@18-23) WKJ casually mentions that in the rest of the book demand curves will be continuous curves. In fact the aggregation of demand curves is a highly controversial topic even within neoclassical economics. Even Nobel laureate Gerard Debreu, who helped to put the neoclassical point of view on a highly mathematical foundation, himself questioned its validity.

Another tactic, thankfully confined to the final chapter, is a more judgmental and emotional dismissal of opposing ideas. For example, we're told that the version of environmental economics known as ecological economics is "high-quality" as practiced in Europe, but not so in the US; US ecological economics is "either noneconomic or antieconomic" (terms that are never explained) (@265). Herman Daly, the leading American proponent of ecological economics, who BTW has been much honored in Europe, is a "self-described ecological economist" whose characterizations of economics are "misleading" (@267), though we are never told how they are so, nor even about Daly's characterizations at all. In this concluding chapter, WKJ also perpetuates the fiction that economics is neutral ("The fact [is] that economics does not take sides," @271) and should be reserved to use by experts ("**When used as directed,** economics attempts to add up people's preferences as reflected in their actions," @270 [emphasis added]). Interestingly, WKJ is conflicted on the question of neutrality; earlier, he tells us "Economic analysis is not 'value free.' That is, it is not neutral or independent with respect to moral or ethical considerations" (@247). I think this last quote is correct; it's too bad WKJ couldn't see the implications of this statement for the rest of the book.

All in all, this is a highly conventional treatment of a subject that deserves much more nuance, and in-depth discussion of controversies. A much more enlightened and enlightening book, despite its age, is Pearce & Turner's "Economics of Natural Resources and the Environment" (Johns Hopkins 1990; not to be confused with the 1993 "Environmental Economics: An Elementary Introduction" by Turner, Pearce & Bateman, which is another conventional treatment). ... Read more

Product Description
Our Common Future was one of the first sustainable development publications to suggest that the twin goals of economic growth and sustainable development could be reconciled. The focus of this new book is to provide an additional response to the call by Dr Gro Brundtland, in her 1987 Foreword, "What is needed now is a new era of economic growth--growth that is forceful and at the same time socially and environmentally sustainable." With the 20th anniversary of Our Common Future in 2007, it is clearly the time to re-examine these important issues. Significant evidence and research is now available to allow a deeper understanding of how, and under what conditions, this "forceful sustainable growth" is possible. The goal of this book is to further explore, in a modern global context, the conditions under which society can achieve a form of economic growth that is environmentally sustainable.

The introduction to Cents and Sustainability is written by Dr Jim MacNeill (former Secretary General to the Brundtland Commission, and former Director, OECD Environment Directorate 1978 -1984). The book carries forewords from Dr Gro Brundtland (former Chair of the World Commission on Environment and Development), Dr Rajendra Pachauri (Chief, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), and joint recipient of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of the IPCC), and Dr Kenneth Ruffing (former Deputy Director and Chief Economist of the OECD Environment Directorate 2000 - 2005). The book's authors belong to The Natural Edge Project, the team behind The Natural Advantage of Nations: Business Opportunities, Innovation and Governance in the 21st Century.
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Product Description
Over its previous four editions, Economics of the Environment has established itself as the standard student reader for environmental economics courses. A rich complement to other texts, this accessible reader provides a balanced selection of classic and contemporary readings to firmly ground students' understanding in the field's primary literature. The Fifth Edition has been carefully reorganized; over a third of the selections are new. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

collection of great essays on environmental economics
good collection of reference material on environmental economics. Some ofthe keystone articles ever compiled on problems and steps taken to find out solutions.

Economics of the Environment: Selected Readings, Fifth Edition
Good book. Different subjects from different authors on environmental economic theory and practice.
Book arrived in a timely manner and was in perfect condition.

Good book
This book was good and clean. The package is not good for books so that the edges could be bent. I do prefer to buy books from Amazon.com because it is reliable.
Thanks.

Good Intro to Policy
Used this for a class with Robert Stavins.Interesting articles.They are a good introduction to environmental policy and its shortcomings. ... Read more

Product Description
Economics and the Environment 6^th Edition, provides a rigorous and comprehensive presentation of the "standard analysis," including the property-rights basis of environmental problems, efficient pollution control, benefit-estimation procedures, and incentive based procedures. This text examines a broad range of topics in environmental and natural resource economics. It presents in-depth treatment of important issues at the cutting edge of environmental policy debates. The focus is on equipping readers with the tools necessary to analyse current environmental issues as an economist would. Broader topics such as the ethical foundations of environmental economics, an introduction to ecological economics, a safety-based approach to controlling pollution, the economic critique of growth, the potential for government failure, the promotion of "clean technology," and opportunities for sustainable development in poor countries are all covered throughout the text.  ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Great book
This is a very information book and not too difficult to understand even though it presents tons of info.

Face the trade-offs!
Goodstein's book is a useful and comprehensive overview of environmental economics.The language is lucid and the math is minimized so that the concepts covered can be understood by anyone willing to make an effort.

The topics discussed include how economists conceptualize and measure pollution, what kinds of trade-offs are associated with different ways of reducing pollution, how to measure economic growth in a way that takes account of environmental costs, and how specific moral principles (for example, utilitarianism and classical liberalism) underlie the various policy proposals economists offer in response to environmental problems.

The most refreshing aspect of Economics and the Environment is Goodstein's insistence that while economists can explain why certain policies are more efficient than others, they have no special expertise in making value judgments, including the judgment that socially efficient outcomes are always best.

Highly Recommended for Understanding Environmental Issues
How much pollution is too much? What role should government play in regulating the environment? Will "clean technology" lay the foundation for a sustainable future? These are the questions students of environment issues are posed with.

To help readers understand the far-reaching implications of environmental and resource economics, this text examines a broad range of topics in environmental economics. It presents "standard analysis," as well as in-depth treatment of important issues at the cutting edge of environmental policy debates.

The focus is on equipping readers with the tools necessary to analyze current environmental issues as an economist would.

In keeping with the philosophy of incorporating examples directly in the text, this book begins with a detailed case study of a "big issue" with which many students are familiar-global warming.

Other issues covered in a rigorous and comprehensive manner include the property-rights basis of environmental problems, benefit estimation techniques and benefit-cost analysis, incentive-based regulation, and sustainable resource use.

The Second Edition retains the three interrelated advantages of its predecessor-(1) broad content, (2) pedagogical clarity, and (3) timely, well-integrated examples-while incorporating major reorganizations, additions and updates aimed at enhancing learning and reflecting the most up-to-date information available.

Following the Introduction, this text centres around four focussed questions:

Part I: How Much Pollution is Enough? Part II: Is Government Up to the Job? Part III: How Can We Do Better? Part IV: Can We Resolve Global Issues?

Using these questions as guidelines, author Eban S. Goodstein develops the economic tools students need to explore solutions to environmental problems. In the process, the book covers a wealth of current examples, from global warming, to population growth, to urban air pollution and energy policy, to chemical regulation and landfill siting.

Part V covers four advanced topics: The Importance of Being Convex, Imperfect Regulation in an Uncertain World, Input-Output Models and Life-Cycle Analysis and Incentive-Compatible Regulation.

As this text addresses important questions raised in contemporary (and future) society and introduces readers to the economist's view of some solutions, it is highly recommended for students taking courses in environment management, environmental and resource economics, and environmental studies. Ideally, students would have undertaken a course in microeconomics or intermediate microeconomics as a prerequisite.

Reviewed by Azlan Adnan. Formerly a Research Officer with the Malaysian Timber Council's London office and Business Development Manager with KPMG's Kuala Lumpur office, Azlan holds a Master's degree in International Business and Management from the Westminster Business School.

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Letters from Students
Date: Thu, 26 Aug 1999 15:55:19 -0500 From: C.N.Gomersall To: eban@lclark.edu Subject: student evaluations of your text Eban, I'm the fellow who asked you about the double dividend issue last spring, when I was using your text in my class on environmental economics. As we both gear up for next semester, Ithought I'd send you the results of my request, during that course lastspring, for (anonymous) evaluation of the text on the part of my students.(I survey most of my classes this way, though never with this kind ofresult; on the contrary, students are often rather cutting.)I'm includingevery word from every student. (1) I like this book. I think it hasgood chapter layouts and is great with examples. The examples also make thetext more interesting to read. (2) I like the text. I think it isvery straightforward and clear. It does a very good job of organizing whatis important and what is needed to understand some of the issues. (3)Goodstein's text, in my opinion, is valuable. It moves away from the strict"Friedman approach." It shows different sides of the argumentspresented and is fairly detailed. (4) Goodstein's book is excellent,one of the best textbooks I used in college. Its best attribute is the manyexamples given, they also help in the learning process. (5) Excellentbook. Well written and uses great examples. He ties in human with the welldescriptive topics. [This sentence was hard to read.]

(6) Goodstein'stext has been very well written and easy to use. (7) Goodstein does agood job of writing this text. Sometimes it is a bit dry and the chapterstake a long time to read. Overall, though, this is a good text for thisclass and a good learning tool. (8) I think the Goodstein text does apretty good job of writing at a level that we can interpret. I also likehis summaries of the chapters, and pointing out of important topics in eachsection. (9) Good book. Interesting to read. (10)Goodstein isgood at getting his point across. It seems to me that much in his book isrepetitive, though. It is difficult though to talk about this subjectwithout being repetitive. Overall Goodstein does [a] good job, especiallywith examples. (11)Goodstein as such has been a good selection forthe text. He explains a lot of new material in a manner geared towards hisprimary audience, the students. I think he has done a good job. (12) The Goodstein book is excellent, in my opinion. It seems very unbiased,especially considering the possibilities of either being slanted toward theenvironment or the other way [sic]. It presents a lot of informationwithout being too technical and overwhelming those of us who haven't hadmuch economics with graphs and other "economic tools." And yes,I liked it too. (signed) Nick Gomersall

_________________________________________________________ C.N.Gomersallgomersni@luther.edu Associate Professor of EconomicsLuther College, Decorah, Iowa, U.S.A.

Highly Recommended for Students of Environmental Issues
How much pollution is too much? What role should government play in regulating the environment? Will "clean technology" lay the foundation for a sustainable future? To help students understand thefar-reaching implications of environmental and resource economics, thistext examines a broad range of topics in environmental economics. Itpresents "standard analysis," as well as in-depth treatment ofimportant issues at the cutting edge of environmental policy debates. Thefocus is on equipping students with the tools necessary to analyze currentenvironmental issues as an economist would.

In keeping with thephilosophy of incorporating examples directly in the text, this book beginswith a detailed case study of a "big issue" with which manystudents are familiar-global warming. Other issues covered in a rigorousand comprehensive manner include the property-rights basis of environmentalproblems, benefit estimation techniques and benefit-cost analysis,incentive-based regulation, and sustainable resource use.

The SecondEdition retains the three interrelated advantages of its predecessor-(1)broad content, (2) pedagogical clarity, and (3) timely, well-integratedexamples-while incorporating major reorganizations, additions and updatesaimed at enhancing learning and reflecting the most up-to-date informationavailable. Following the Introduction, this text centres around fourfocussed questions:

Part I: How Much Pollution is Enough? Part II: IsGovernment Up to the Job? Part III: How Can We Do Better? Part IV: Can WeResolve Global Issues?

Using these questions as guidelines, the authordevelops the economic tools students need to explore solutions toenvironmental problems. In the process, the book covers a wealth of currentexamples, from global warming, to population growth, to urban air pollutionand energy policy, to chemical regulation and landfill siting.

Part Vcovers four advanced topics: The Importance of Being Convex, ImperfectRegulation in an Uncertain World, Input-Output Models and Life-CycleAnalysis and Incentive-Compatible Regulation.

As this text addressesimportant questions raised in contemporary (and future) society andintroduces readers to the economist's view of some solutions, it is highlyrecommended for students taking courses in environment management,environmental and resource economics, and environmental studies. Ideally,students would have undertaken a course in microeconomics or intermediatemicroeconomics as a prerequisite.

Formerly a Research Officer with theMalaysian Timber Council's London office and Business Development Managerwith KPMG's Kuala Lumpur office, Azlan Adnan is currently Managing Partnerof Azlan & Koh Knowledge and Professional Management Group, aneducation and management consulting practice based in Kota Kinabalu. Heholds a Master's degree in International Business and Management from theWestminster Business School. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (8)

One sided text with numerous inaccuracies
I purchased the text as a guide for developing corporate sustainability guidelines.I found the author to be inaccurate in a number of places and his view of the business world is puerile.Obviously he is an academic with no real world experience beyond any benchmarking he has done in large companies.

For instance, page 107: "Given some of the characteristics of SMEs [small and medium enterprises] this approach to capital investment decisions is not surprising.Indeed, factors such as lack of financial expertise, short-term vision and shortage of capital partly explain their chosen approach."In fact many small companies are extremely well funded and run by CEOs and CFOs from large enterprises looking for a faster pace in a small enterprise.His assertions are equally absurd in many other parts of the book.The text makes assertions about accounting systems, with no apparent knowledge of GAAP, FASB, SOX or tax laws, tells the readers how GAAP "distorts" financial reporting.

With as many inaccuracies, lack of any real business knowledge, and the hostile or slanted view of business realities, I would not recommend this book to anybody who intends to us it as a serious guide to corporate sustainability.

An Outstanding Contribution
The challenges and opportunities facing companies today in the area of sustainability are more complex and have greater potential impact than ever before. Making Sustainability Work fulfills an unmet need for senior executives, board members, and managers seeking better ways to manage these challenges and opportunities. In this book, Epstein provides direction and guidance to help corporate leaders integrate sustainability into their daily decisions and to better understand and manage corporate social responsibilities and corporate performance. Making Sustainability Work is an outstanding contribution to the field. This book will be an invaluable resource for senior executives, boards, and managers searching for the best ways to integrate sustainability into their decision making.
--Mark L. Frigo, Ph.D., CMA, CPA, Director of the Center for Strategy, Execution, and Valuation, Kellstadt Grauate School of Business at DePaul University

Important to read for both the Manager and the Management Academic
Whereas others have argued for why corporations must attend to social issues, Epstein helps us understand how.Epstein provides in-depth, thoughtful analysis that integrates the relevant research in the field about how to more effectively manage corporate social responsibility. He grounds this analysis in extensive examples of companies actively grappling with these issues. In doing so, he provides a manual for both academics and practitioners to understand what we know today about how to manage corporate social responsibility , and provides a set of questions for the issues that we must grapple with tomorrow. This book is a must read for anyone who cares about the success of companies and who cares about the future of our communities and our planet.

A master plan for managing sustainably
If you want a single book on how to make your company sustainable, this is the book for you. Epstein distills the latest and greatest thinking into a sensible and comprehensive program for delivering environmental, social, and financial excellence. You don't need to look further for a guide to retool the machinery of your organization to create value for all stakeholders. Epstein is a renowned expert in the field of managing for sustainable performance. It's amazing how many insights and examples he fits into this easy-to-ready book. A great contribution to the field.

Very readable, lots of company examples
This book provides a detailed model that provides guidance on how managers can implement sustainability at their companies.However, it is excellent not only for managers, but also for consumers who want to know what companies are doing or what they should be doing to improve their social and environmental responsibility.It is easy to read and contains many detailed real world examples to help readers understand what corporate sustainability is and how it should work at global companies. ... Read more

Product Description

In recent years, the East and South East Asian region has witnessed a rapid expansion of regional economic cooperation through bilateral and plurilateral free trade agreements. The current book attempts to comprehensively analyze the economic and environmental impacts of regional economic integration in East and South East Asia to the year 2020. This region has some of the fastest growing economies of the world. A global economic model was used to undertake the analysis. A rare feature of the book is the detailed environmental implications of the Regional Trade Agreements focusing on air, water, and waste pollution. Economic integration among the East and South East Asian region has been an important agenda item for the academic and policy communities in recent years.

The study provides insight into pursuing a concrete multilateral trade liberalization policy (combining ASEAN and other countries in East Asia) and throws more light on the on-going trade and environment debate. This book will be a good addition to the field of trade and the environment. The academic community – primarily researchers and policy makers, and world bodies, such as the WTO, ADB and the World Bank, will benefit from the book.

Product Description
In this urgent time, World on the Edge calls out the pivotal environmental issues and how to solve them now.We are in a race between political and natural tipping points. Can we close coal-fired power plants fast enough to save the Greenland ice sheet and avoid catastrophic sea level rise? Can we raise water productivity fast enough to halt the depletion of aquifers and avoid water-driven food shortages? Can we cope with peak water and peak oil at the same time? These are some of the issues Lester R. Brown skillfully distills in World on the Edge. Bringing decades of research and analysis into play, he provides the responses needed to reclaim our future. ... Read more