精东传媒app

The tremendous improvements in our standards of living during the twentieth century are the fruits of economic growth. However, when considering environmental and other costs associated with growth, the question being raised is: are there limits to economic growth? Many believe that this is not an either/or choice; rather a balance between environment and development is both possible and is happening. Countries do not have to abandon their development potentials to preserve the environment. In fact economic development is essential to maintaining our standards of living. The notion of sustainable economies allows economic development not based on the exploitation of natural resources and the environment in a way that cannot be sustained. Policies and strategies can be designed and implemented to improve economic efficiency, and thus promote economic development, minimise adverse environmental effects and internalise the externalities into the decision making process.

This course introduces students to a way of thinking about environmental problems and achieving sustainable economic development, based on economic principles. The course provides a background to the study of resource and environmental economics by putting it in the context of economy-environment interdependence and sustainability concerns, and the fundamental characteristics of an economic approach to environmental problems and their assessment. Both macro and microeconomic principles and their application are covered, as is the essence of economic perspectives. Both regulatory and market-based approaches are explored in an effort to protect natural resources and improve environmental quality. General emphasis is placed upon the improvement of economic welfare through the application of economic principles in the search for sustainable economic development.

On successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. explain the use of economic principles and policies in the achievement of sustainable economies;
2. understand the basic economic concepts and the analytical tools for dealing with environmental and natural resource issues and demonstrate problem-solving skills through their targeted application;
3. understand the working and effects of the price system, regulatory and market-based incentives, and economic valuation, impact assessment and appraisal methods;
4. discuss the conditions for and requirements of sustainable economies;
5. demonstrate academic and professional literacy skills through the comprehension, critical analysis and application of set texts to serve a designated purpose;
6. demonstrate written communication skills using appropriate conventions and structure.