Introduction to Environmental Economics and Policy

Human economic activity drives global development, but it also places unprecedented pressure on our planet's natural systems. This text-based course introduces you to the core concepts of environmental and resource economics, helping you understand how financial incentives, policy decisions, and ecological preservation intersect. You will discover how societies can balance growth with conservation using real-world economic tools. What you'll learn: Understand the foundational principles of environmental economics and market failures; Analyze how regulatory policies, taxes, and cap-and-trade systems manage pollution; Evaluate the economic value of non-market natural resources; Apply modern sustainability frameworks, including circular economy concepts and green accounting; Examine global climate policies and international environmental agreements. This course begins with essential terminology and economic foundations before guiding you through policy design, valuation methods, and modern green frameworks. It is designed entirely for beginners with no prior background in economics or environmental policy. Start building a solid understanding of how economic tools can solve our most pressing ecological challenges.