Questions from Environmental Economics

Q: Opponents of emission tax policies sometimes assert that they are simply a

Opponents of emission tax policies sometimes assert that they are simply a way of letting firms buy the right to pollute. Is this a reasonable criticism?

Q: When emission charges are put into effect, who ultimately ends up

When emission charges are put into effect, who ultimately ends up paying for them? Is this fair?

Q: It is sometimes suggested that the most equitable way to resolve issues

It is sometimes suggested that the most equitable way to resolve issues in international trade agreements would be for all countries to adopt the same emission standards. What are the pros and cons of...

Q: How might you design a transferable discharge permit system for solid waste

How might you design a transferable discharge permit system for solid waste? For phasing out of use a certain type of plastic? For phasing in a program for using recycled newsprint in newspapers?

Q: In order to protect the quality of its nearby water resources,

In order to protect the quality of its nearby water resources, a community places a restriction on any housing development closer than 100 feet to a wetland. How might you estimate the social costs of...

Q: Distinguish between a “technology-based” water pollution–control

Distinguish between a “technology-based” water pollution–control program and an “ambient-based” program.

Q: In order to meet TMDL limits in a cost-effective manner

In order to meet TMDL limits in a cost-effective manner, what is the appropriate role of the equimarginal principle? What about the economic efficiency principle?

Q: Following are the marginal abatement costs of two sources. They currently

Following are the marginal abatement costs of two sources. They currently emit 10 tons each. a. What would the total abatement costs be for an equiproportional cutback to a total of 10 tons? b. Supp...

Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of using willingness to pay as

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using willingness to pay as a measure of value? What are some alternatives?

Q: What are the pros and cons of letting anybody (banks,

What are the pros and cons of letting anybody (banks, private citizens, environmental groups, government agencies, etc.) buy and sell transferable discharge permits, in addition to emission sources th...