Ecological Economics
An Introduction

A comprehensive introduction to the emerging field of ecological economics assuming no prior knowledge of economics.

Michael Common (Author), Sigrid Stagl (Author)

9780521016704, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 13 October 2005

594 pages, 78 tables
24.7 x 17.4 x 3.5 cm, 0.95 kg

'The writing is clear and the voice is distinctive … this is a well-written book …' The Times Higher Education Supplement

Taking as its starting point the interdependence of the economy and the natural environment, this book provides a comprehensive introduction to the emerging field of ecological economics. The authors, who have written extensively on the economics of sustainability, build on insights from both mainstream economics and ecological sciences. Part I explores the interdependence of the modern economy and its environment, while Part II focuses mainly on the economy and on economics. Part III looks at how national governments set policy targets and the instruments used to pursue those targets. Part IV examines international trade and institutions, and two major global threats to sustainability - climate change and biodiversity loss. Assuming no prior knowledge of economics, this textbook is well suited for use on interdisciplinary environmental science and management courses. It has extensive student-friendly features including discussion questions and exercises, keyword highlighting, real-world illustrations, further reading and website addresses.

1. What is ecological economics?
Part I. Interdependent Systems: 2. The environment
3. The economy in the environment
4. How we got here
Part II. Economic Activity: 5. Economic accounting
6. Economic growth and human well-being
7. Economic growth and the environment
8. Exchange and markets
9. Limits to markets
Part III. Governance: 10. Determining policy objectives
11. Policy instruments
Part IV. The International Dimension: 12. A world of nation states
13. Climate change
14. Biodiversity loss.

Subject Areas: Environmental science, engineering & technology [TQ], Environmental economics [KCN], Microeconomics [KCC]