Taking as its starting point the interdependence of the economy and the natural environment, this book provides
a comprehensive introduction to the emerging field of ecological economics. The authors, who have written extensively
on the economics of sustainability, build on insights from both mainstream economics and ecological sciences. Part
I explores the interdependence of the modern economy and its environment, while Part II focuses mainly on the economy
and on economics. Part III looks at how national governments set policy targets and the instruments used to pursue
those targets. Part IV examines international trade and institutions, and two major global threats to sustainability
- climate change and biodiversity loss. Assuming no prior knowledge of economics, this textbook is well suited
for use on interdisciplinary environmental science and management courses. It has extensive student-friendly features
including discussion questions and exercises, keyword highlighting, real-world illustrations, further reading and
website addresses.
A comprehensive introduction to a developing field which will interest students from science, economics and
management backgrounds
A global approach to the problems of sustainability and sustainable development, issues which are increasingly
prominent in political debate and policy making
Filled with student-friendly features including focus areas for each chapter, keyword highlighting, real-world
illustrations, discussion questions and exercises, further reading and website addresses
Table of Contents
Ch. 1. An introduction to ecological economics
Ch. 2. The environment
Ch. 3. Humans in the environment - some history
Ch. 4. The economy in the environment - a conceptual framework
Ch. 5. Economic accounting
Ch. 6. Economic growth and human well-being
Ch. 7. Economic growth and the environment
Ch. 8. Exchange and markets
Ch. 9. Limits to markets
Ch. 10. Determining policy objectives
Ch. 11. Environmental policy instruments
Ch. 12. A world of nation states
Ch. 13. Climate change
Ch. 14. Biodiversity loss
