Learning objectives
The goal of the course is to broaden the field of traditional economic analysis to environmental aspects in order to highlight the relationship between the functioning of the productive economic system and market with the surrounding environment. <br />
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Special emphasis is placed on the existing relationships with nature, both on a micro- and macro-economic level for the three main lines of policy: the environment as resource input (renewable and non-renewable), the environment as the receiver of production waste (recyclable and non-recyclable), the environment as an economic resource in itself. <br />
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Also defined will be the weak and strong long-term elements basic to the concept of sustainability of today’s globalised economy. In particular the resources of strategic importance for world development will be analysed: energy (and raw materials), and water.
Prerequisites
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Basic course in Micro and Macro Economics
Course unit content
<br />Origin and evolution of environmental economics <br />
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Relationship between the economy and the environment <br />
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Economic incentives for environmental sustainability <br />
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Natural resources: types, classification and scarcity <br />
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Economic analysis of renewable and non-renewable resources: models and economic equilibrium <br />
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Analysis of strategic environmental resources and economic policies: energy and water <br />
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The Kyoto Protocol and conservation policies
Full programme
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Bibliography
Tom Tietenberg 'Economia dell'Ambiente', McGraw-Hill, Milano 2006 <br />
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Hanley Nick, Shogren Jason F., White, 'Introduction to environmental economics', Oxford University press, 2001.
Teaching methods
The course consists of classroom lectures with specific examples and case studies. Depending on the availability of local bodies and companies, field trips will be organised to sites and places of special interest in terms of local conservation or to evaluate impact on the local environment. <br />
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Final evaluation will consist of a written exam comprised of written responses which must demonstrate the candidate’s ability to synthesize.
Assessment methods and criteria
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Other information
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