The course begins with an explanation of what economics is. In this explanation, a role for economics in the consideration of environmental matters is established. Some time is spent exploring the potential for markets to solve environmental problems and this is accompanied by a parallel analysis of government, or ‘command and control' mechanisms for dealing with environmental issues. Other economic principles and techniques are also set out, including cost benefit analysis.

With this background established, the remainder of the course is divided into two sections. The first deals with the economics of natural resources including water, forests, energy, agriculture and wildlife. The second involves the analysis of pollution issues ranging from local to global.

Introduction to Environmental and Resource Economics is a course designed to provide students with an understanding of the ways in which the discipline of economics can be used to analyse environmental and natural resource use issues.

The course will be assessed on the basis of student performance in three modes of assessment:

1.      two assignments                                          20 % (10% each)

2.      a mid semester test (closed book)                 20 %

3.      final examination                                         60 %

3 contact hours per week plus 5 hours preparation, assignements and revision per week.

Delivery Mode:

1^st semester; lectures and tutorials.  On Campus.