Introduction to Environmental Economics

How do we balance economic growth with the preservation of our natural world? Understanding the intersection of market forces and environmental protection is essential for addressing today's global ecological challenges. This text-only course provides a clear, foundational path into environmental economics, helping you analyze how human choices impact the planet's resources. You will start by mastering core economic theories and learning how market failures, externalities, and public goods contribute to environmental degradation. What you'll learn: - Understand fundamental concepts of microeconomics applied to the environment - Analyze the causes of market failure and the role of negative externalities - Evaluate policy instruments such as carbon pricing, emissions trading, and green taxes - Explore modern sustainability frameworks, circular economy concepts, and climate policy - Practice valuing non-market environmental goods using quantitative assessment methods - Examine international environmental agreements and global resource management strategies This course guides you step-by-step from foundational definitions to real-world policy applications, using clear written scenarios and practical case studies. It is designed specifically for beginners, students, and professionals interested in sustainability, with no prior background in economics required. Start building your understanding of environmental policy and economic decision-making today.