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on Environmental Economics |
| By: | Ott, Ingrid; Soretz, Susanne |
| Abstract: | We analyse the interdependence between green attitude and equilibrium development of environmental quality in an endogenous growth model. Individuals take only part of their impact on pollution into account, hence there is a negative externality of capital accumulation on environmental quality. Increasing wealth or increasing pollution enhance green attitude and reduce the externality, because individuals care more about the environment if their income is higher or if pollution is more obvious. The time path of pollution as well as the evolution of equilibrium growth are shown to depend crucially on the determinants of green attitude. If green attitude improves with increasing wealth, e.g. as a consequence of an increase in environmental education, the economy converges to the sustainable growth path and in the long run, also the optimal level of environmental quality is realized. In contrast, pollution remains at a suboptimally high level if individual attitude towards the environment is influenced by pollution itself, that means, if individuals care the more about environmental issues the worse environmental quality. |
| Keywords: | pollution,endogenous growth,green attitude |
| JEL: | O1 O4 Q2 Q5 |
| Date: | 2015 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:kitwps:68&r=env |
| By: | Damania,Richard; Wheeler,David J. |
| Abstract: | Road construction has often been viewed as the precursor to deforestation, especially in tropical forests. Traditional responses to such threats have been reactive, with attempts to mitigate impacts through physical measures, or the establishment of protected areas. These approaches often have not been entirely successful, especially in areas where economic potential is significant. This paper seeks to mitigate such conflicts by proposing a proactive approach to development planning and environmental policy. It develops a high-resolution spatial model of road improvement impacts that includes ecological risks and the economics of forest clearing. The approach is implemented by estimating the potential impact of road upgrading on forest clearing and biodiversity in eight Congo Basin countries. The paper demonstrates how the detailed analysis can identify areas of high ecological priority as well as areas at high risk of forest loss. The paper contributes to several aspects of the literature. First, it provides the most recent and reliable estimates of the drivers of deforestation in the Congo Basin, with the latest high-resolution satellite data on forest cover changes. Second, it presents novel estimates of biodiversity threats by creating an index that combines and synthesizes several measures of biodiversity loss and impacts. It then develops an empirical framework for estimating the ecological impacts of road improvement. Finally, the paper illustrates how the empirical framework can be used to preempt impacts and avoid potential ecological damage. |
| Keywords: | Climate Change and Environment,Transport Economics Policy&Planning,Ecosystems and Natural Habitats,Climate Change Mitigation and Green House Gases,Wildlife Resources |
| Date: | 2015–05–18 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wbk:wbrwps:7274&r=env |
| By: | Reckova, Dominika; Irsova, Zuzana |
| Abstract: | We present a meta-regression analysis of the relation between the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and changes in global temperature. The relation is captured by “climate sensitivity”, which measures the response to a doubling of carbon dioxide concentrations compared to pre-industrial levels. Estimates of climate sensitivity play a crucial role in evaluating the impacts of climate change and constitute one of the most important inputs into the computation of the social cost of carbon, which reflects the socially optimal value of a carbon tax. Climate sensitivity has been estimated by many researchers, but their results vary significantly. We collect 48 estimates from 16 studies and analyze the literature quantitatively. We find evidence for publication selection bias: researchers tend to report preferentially large estimates of climate sensitivity. Corrected for publication bias, the bulk of the literature is consistent with climate sensitivity lying between 1.4 and 2.3°C. |
| Keywords: | climate sensitivity; climate change; CO2; publication bias; meta-analysis |
| JEL: | C4 Q53 Q54 |
| Date: | 2015–05–18 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:64455&r=env |
| By: | Ma, Chunbo; Hailu, Atakelty |
| Abstract: | There is an emerging literature estimating the marginal cost of carbon mitigation in China using distance function approaches; however, empirical estimates vary widely in magnitude and variation, which undermines support for policies to curb carbon emission. Applying three commonly used distance functions to China’s provincial data from 2001 to 2010, we show that the variability can be partially explained by the difference in the input/output coverage and whether the estimated marginal abatement cost (MAC) is conditional or unconditional. We also argue that the substantial heterogeneity in abatement cost estimates could be related to an economic interpretation that radial measures reflect the short-run MACs while non-radial measures reflect the long-run MACs. Our mean short-run MAC for carbon is 20 US$ per tonne, an amount that is very close to the carbon prices observed in China’s recently launched pilot markets. |
| Keywords: | Distance Functions, Marginal Abatement Cost, Carbon, China, Environmental Economics and Policy, Resource /Energy Economics and Policy, N55, Q32, Q52, Q54, |
| Date: | 2015–05–21 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:uwauwp:204973&r=env |
| By: | Louis-Philippe Beland; Vincent Boucher |
| Abstract: | This paper estimates the causal impact of party affiliation (Republican or Democrat) of U.S. governors on pollution. Using a regression discontinuity design, gubernatorial election data, and air quality data from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), we find that pollution is lower under Democratic governors. We identify that this is mostly due to environmental policies enacted by Democratic governors. |
| Keywords: | Political Parties, Pollution, Air Quality, Regression Discontinuity |
| JEL: | Q53 Q58 D72 |
| Date: | 2015 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:lvl:lacicr:1513&r=env |
| By: | Ariane Labat (DG CLIMA, European Commission); Alban Kitous (JRC IPTS, European Commission); Miles Perry (DG CLIMA, European Commission); Bert Saveyn (JRC IPTS, European Commission; JRC IPTS , European Commission); Toon Vandyck (JRC IPTS , European Commission); Zoi Vrontisi (JRC IPTS , European Commission) |
| Abstract: | This report presents the modelling work quoted in the EC communication "The Paris Protocol - a blueprint for tackling global climate change beyond 2020” in the EU’s Energy Union package. It examines the effects of a Baseline scenario where current trends continue beyond 2020, and of a Global Mitigation scenario in line with keeping global warming below 2°C. The analysis uses the POLES and GEM-E3 models in a framework where economic welfare is maximised while tackling climate change. In the Baseline, emissions trigger +3.5°C global warming. In the Global Mitigation scenario, all regions realise domestic emission cuts to stay below 2°C, with various profiles in 2020-2050 depending on their national characteristics. A significant transformation of the energy systems and non-energy measures enable regions at all levels of income to move to a low-emission growth pathway. Sectors linked (directly or indirectly) to carbon-intensive processes adjust their investments to be competitive in a low-emission environment. A significant number of regions draw economic benefits from shifting their expenditures on fossil energy imports to investments. GDP growth rates are marginally affected in most regions by global efforts to reduce emissions. Crucially, high growth rates are maintained in fast-growing low-income regions. Economic costs are reduced further when countries use emission permit auction revenues for other tax reductions. Delaying actions to stay below 2°C add large economic costs. |
| Keywords: | GHG emissions, climate mitigation, international negotiations, COP21, IPCC, UNFCCC, modelling, GEM-E3, POLES, Road to Paris |
| JEL: | C68 D58 Q40 Q54 |
| Date: | 2015–04 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ipt:iptwpa:jrc95892&r=env |
| By: | Jean-Denis Garon; Charles Séguin |
| Abstract: | We study the welfare effects of a revenue-neutral green tax reform in a federation. The reform consists of increasing a tax on a polluting input and reducing that on labor income. Households are fully mobile within the federation. Regions are unequally endowed with a non-renewable natural resource. Resource rents are owned by regions and are redistributed to citizens on a residence basis, which generates a motive for inefficiently relocating to the resource-rich jurisdiction. Since the resource-poor region has a higher marginal product of labor than does the resource-rich region, the tax reform mitigates the scope of inefficient migration. This positive welfare effect may significantly reduce abatement costs of pollution and calls for higher environmental tax, as compared with a model where migration is assumed away. |
| Keywords: | Federalism, Environment, Taxation, Equalization, Mobility, Externalities |
| JEL: | D62 H21 H23 H77 |
| Date: | 2015 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:lvl:lacicr:1509&r=env |
| By: | Tommi Ekholm |
| Abstract: | This paper considers the optimal rotation of forests when the carbon flows of forest growth and harvest are priced with an increasing price. Such an evolution of carbon price is generally associated with economically efficient climate change mitigation, and would provide incentives for the land-owner for enhanced carbon sequestration. With an infinitely long sequence of even-aged forest rotations, the optimal harvest age changes with subsequent rotations due to the changing carbon price. The first-order optimality conditions therefore also involve an infinite chain of lengths for consecutive forest rotations, and allow the approximation of the infinite-time problem with a truncated series of forest rotations. Illustrative numerical calculations show that when starting from bare land, the initial carbon price and its growth rate both primarily increase the length of the first rotation. With some combinations of the carbon pricing parameters, the optimal harvest age can be several hundred years if the forest carbon is released to the atmosphere upon harvest. This effect is not, however, entirely monotonous. Consequently, the currently optimal harvest ages are generally lower with higher rates of carbon price increase. This creates an interesting temporal aspect, suggesting that the supply of wood and carbon sequestration by forests can change considerably during subsequent rotations under an increasing price on carbon. |
| Date: | 2015–05 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:1505.05669&r=env |
| By: | Tausch, Arno |
| Abstract: | The pressures of globalization, rising ecological footprint and shrinking biocapacity and concomitant global value change will contribute towards an increase of the importance of environmental issues in the Arab world in the coming years. Without question, already the time series data from available indices – like the KOF-Index of Globalization (2015) and Ecological Footprint Network data on ecological footprint and biocapicity - all point in the direction that in objective terms the Arab World will be confronted by a synchronous increase of these phenomena in the coming years. In addition, the newly available opinion data from the recently released World Values Survey (6) for twelve members of the Arab League (Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Palestinian Territories, Qatar, Tunisia, and Yemen), containing almost 70% of the population of the countries of the Arab League show to us that membership rate environmental organizations, participation in environmental demonstrations and giving priority to protecting the environment over economic growth are already a factor in those countries. Their weight will increase in the years to come, given the general and very robust underlying tendencies. Our article analyzes the empirical relationship between rising globalization and ecological performance by establishing the global long-term, structural macro-quantitative determinants of environmental performance in the world system with cross-national data. In multiple standard OLS regression models, we test the effects of 26 standard predictor variables, including the ‘four freedoms’ of goods, capital, labor and services, whose weight will all increase in the Arab world in the coming years, on the following indicators of sustainable development avoiding net trade of ecological footprint gha per person Carbon emissions per million US dollars GDP CO2 per capita Yale/Columbia Environmental Performance Index (EPI) Global footprint per capita Happy Life Years Happy Planet Index ln (number of people per mill inhabitants 1980-2000 killed by natural disasters per year+1) Our research shows that the apprehensions of quantitative research, critical of neo-liberal globalization are fully vindicated by the significant negative environmental effects of the foreign savings rate. High foreign savings are indeed a driver of global footprint, and are a blockade against a satisfactory Happy Planet Index performance. The new international division of labor is one of the prime drivers of high CO2 per capita emissions. The penetration of economies by foreign direct investments by transnational corporations, which is the master variable of most quantitative dependency theories (MNC penetration), blocks environmental performance (EPI-Index) and several other socially important processes. Worker remittances have a significant positive effect on the Happy Planet Index, and Happy Life Years. In attempting to draw some cautious predictions for the Arab World, the article then evaluates the performance of the Arab countries in this context with our cross-national data and with our analysis of World Values Survey (6) data for the region. While the documented data for the region from the Yale/Columbia EPI Index, which is the best single-shot available global environmental quality indicator today, and the Ecological Footprint Network time series data about rising ecological footprint and shrinking biocapacity in the Arab countries clearly indicate the sharply mounting and pressing environmental policy priorities in the region, the “greening” of Arab civil societies towards a higher degree of environmental consciousness and activism already is also becoming a considerable factor. The overall publics in Qatar and Libya are in the lead, while in the other Arab countries, environmental policy issues will gain considerably in importance in the public mindset as well. Decision makers would be well advised to channel already now these future environmental debates and movements to be expected in a way compatible with the overall well-being, prosperity, democratization and stability of the region. |
| Keywords: | International Relations and International Political Economy; International Migration; Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics - General |
| JEL: | F22 F5 Q00 |
| Date: | 2015–05–21 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:64511&r=env |
| By: | A. Marcel Oestreich (Department of Economics, Brock University, Canada); Ilias Tsiakas (Department of Economics and Finance, University of Guelph, Canada; The Rimini Centre for Economic Analysis, Italy) |
| Abstract: | This paper provides an empirical investigation of the effect of the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme on German stock returns. We find that, during the first few years of the scheme, firms that received free carbon emission allowances on average significantly outperformed firms that did not. This suggests the presence of a large and statistically significant “carbon premium”, which is mainly explained by the higher cash flows due to the free allocation of carbon emission allowances. A carbon risk factor can also explain part of the cross-sectional variation of stock returns as firms with high carbon emissions have higher exposure to carbon risk and exhibit higher expected returns. |
| Date: | 2012–08 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:rim:rimwps:15-18&r=env |
| By: | Halkos, George; Skouloudis, Antonis |
| Abstract: | An increasing number of large corporations around the world engage in accounting for and reporting on their plans and measures towards climate change, as part of their environmental responsibility agenda. Using a disclosure index, this study investigates the status of the disclosure practices of the top 100 companies operating in Greece with respect to the pivotal issue of climate change. Determinants which drive Greek companies to publicly disclose such information are examined while overlapping perspectives for the Greek case are outlined. The analysis suggests that only a small group of leading Greek companies appears to endorse a climate change discourse as an instrument of empowering stakeholders’ decision-making. Most other corporations still tend to disregard disclosure practices of their actions towards this global issue. |
| Keywords: | Climate change; corporate disclosure; corporate social responsibility; content analysis; Greece. |
| JEL: | F55 L25 Q50 Q54 Q58 Q59 |
| Date: | 2015 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:64566&r=env |
| By: | J. Scott Holladay (Department of Economics, University of Tennessee); Steven Soloway (School of Law, New York University) |
| Abstract: | We examine the environmental and policy impacts of switching from oil-fired to natural gas-fired generation in New York City (NYC). We create an hourly panel of the fuel use of NYC’s generators and use a semi-parametric approach to identify the fuel price spread that induces the switch from oil to gas. We find that NYC’s pollution emissions decrease significantly after switching to natural gas. Around two-thirds of these emission reductions come from reduced emission intensity within plants, while the remaining third comes from less intense dispatch of oil fired generators. To illustrate the policy impact, we simulate the introduction of a real time pricing (RTP) program in NYC. The results suggest that the environmental benefits of the RTP decreased by nearly 30% due largely to fuel switching. While we focus on RTP, these results can be used to evaluate any energy policy that has a heterogeneous impact across time or the demand profile. |
| JEL: | Q4 Q5 L9 |
| Date: | 2015–05–13 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ten:wpaper:2015-05&r=env |
| By: | Anne Schopp; William Acworth; Daniel Huppmann; Karsten Neuhoff |
| Abstract: | We examine under which conditions a cap-and-trade mechanism can deliver a dynamically efficient abatement pathway and contribute to a robust investment framework. For this we develop a numerical dynamic partial-equilibrium model that includes differentiated objective functions of different market participants for holding emission allowances based on their banking strategy. If the surplus of allowances is large, as currently observed in the European Union Emissions Trading System, the equilibrium market outcome can deviate from an efficient abatement pathway and performance of the policy is reduced against a set of key criteria (dynamic efficiency, price credibility, price consistency, and robustness to shocks). The model is applied to assess design options of quantity and price based market stability reserves as discussed in Europe. Both price and quantity based mechanisms can improve the performance of the EU ETS against key criteria. |
| Keywords: | Computational Model, Emissions trading, Environmental Regulation, Market stability reserve |
| JEL: | D84 G18 Q48 |
| Date: | 2015 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:diw:diwwpp:dp1483&r=env |
| By: | Ingmar Schumacher; Benteng Zou |
| Abstract: | In this article we study the implication of thresholds in preferences. To model this we extend the basic model of John and Pecchenino (1994) by allowing the current level of environmental quality to have a discrete impact on how an agent trades o future consumption and environmental quality. Thus, we endogenize the semi-elasticity of utility based on a step function. We nd that for low (high) thresholds, environmental quality converges to a low (high) steady state. For intermediate levels it converges to a stable p-cycle, with environmental quality being asymptotically bounded below and above by the low and high steady state. As policy implications we study shifts in the threshold. Costless shifts of the threshold are always worthwhile. If it is costly to change the threshold, then it is worthwhile to change the threshold if the threshold originally was suciently low. Lump-sum taxes lead to a development trap and a proportional income tax should be preferred. |
| Keywords: | thresholds, endogenous preferences, environmental quality, policy intervention |
| JEL: | Q28 Q56 |
| Date: | 2015–05–20 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ipg:wpaper:2015-627&r=env |
| By: | Greaves, Gerry |
| Abstract: | Climate-economy integrated assessment models are often used to assess the interaction between climate change effects and the economy. A simple but powerful model, DICE (Dynamic Integrated Climate-Economy) model, was developed at Yale. This is an easily accessible model that allows exploration of various parameters that affect long-term (years 2000-2300) climate change. The global economic model estimates the future growth of economic output tempered by abatement costs and climate change damages. It uses an optimization scheme to determine the CO2eq price over time that maximizes discounted utility of consumption. However, there are a few areas that may be improved. This paper addresses those areas. First, a model of renewable energy that explicitly accounts for the capital required for the transition is added. This has the effect of smoothing the beginning of the transition, and shows that we can afford the transition. Second, a modified damage function is used that shows a greater penalty for business as usual. Third, the growth model used in DICE results in a level of economic growth too high to be supported by historical data. A modified growth model is proposed based primarily on historical data from the Penn World Table that results in lower growth and a more rapid decline in growth rate. |
| Keywords: | economic growth, energy, climate |
| JEL: | O41 O44 Q43 Q54 |
| Date: | 2015–05–12 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:64588&r=env |
| By: | Nadia Ameli; Nicola Brandt |
| Abstract: | Energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies provide important opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, households fail to take up many clean energy investments that are cost-effective. This paper reviews different explanations for apparent underinvestment in energy efficiency that have been put forward in the literature. While investments in renewable energy technologies are typically not (yet) profitable, many of its drivers are similar to those that determine energy efficiency investments, and the two types of investment are therefore assessed jointly. The paper also provides new evidence regarding barriers to investment in energy efficiency based on the OECD Survey on Household Environmental Behaviour and Attitudes. Finally, policy solutions that would help overcome some of these barriers are also presented.<P>Quels sont les obstacles à l'investissement des ménages dans la rénovation énergétique et les énergies renouvelables ?<BR>La rénovation énergétique et les énergies renouvelables constituent un important moyen de réduire les émissions de gaz à effet de serre. Or, les ménages n’engagent pas un grand nombre d’investissements dans les énergies propres qui seraient rentables. Le présent document passe en revue différents arguments présentés dans les travaux publiés pour expliquer le sous-investissement constaté dans l’efficacité énergétique. Même si les investissements dans les technologies d'énergie renouvelable ne sont, généralement pas (encore) rentables, bon nombre de ses pilotes sont similaires à celles qui déterminent les investissements d'efficacité énergétique, et les deux types d'investissement sont donc évalués conjointement. Il présente aussi de nouveaux éléments sur les obstacles à l’investissement dans ce domaine, provenant de l’enquête de l'OCDE sur la politique de l’environnement et le comportement individuel. Enfin, il expose des solutions que les pouvoirs publics pourraient mettre en oeuvre pour aider à surmonter certains de ces obstacles. |
| Keywords: | market failure, behavioural failures, energy efficiency gap, défaillances de marché, défaillances comportementales |
| JEL: | Q38 Q41 |
| Date: | 2015–05–21 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:ecoaaa:1222-en&r=env |
| By: | John Bryant (Vocat International) |
| Abstract: | Chapter from a book entitled Entropy Man, which deals with the relationships between the disciplines of thermodynamics and economics. Chapter 1 illusrates how entropy impacts on the world in which we live. Chapter 2 is a short history of human development. Chapter 3 covers such concepts as the distribution of income, elasticity, the first and second laws of thermodynamics and utility. Chapter 4 explores production and consumption. Chapter 5 explores the relationship between economic entropy and money, illustrated by data of the UK and USA economies. Chapter 7 explores the relationship between economic entropy and employment. Chapter 8 sets out the key dynamics of resources.Chapter 9 illustrates trends in non-renewable resources of oil, gas, coal, nuclear power, steel, cement and Aluminium. Chapter 10 illustrates trends in renewable resources, including humankind, water, land and soil, cereals and grain, meat, fish, the greeen revolution, and renewable energy, including hydro-electric power, wind and solar energy. Chapter 11 is a summary of trends relating to climate change and economic output, and chapter 12 summarises how economics and entropy relate to a sustainable world. |
| Keywords: | Thermodynamics, economics, Le Chatelier, entropy, utility, money, equilibrium, value, energy, interest, elasticity, employment, climate change |
| JEL: | A1 C02 C68 D5 E O |
| Date: | 2015–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:voc:wpaper:em201508&r=env |
| By: | John Bryant (Vocat International) |
| Abstract: | Chapter from a book entitled Entropy Man, which deals with the relationships between the disciplines of thermodynamics and economics. Chapter 1 illusrates how entropy impacts on the world in which we live. Chapter 2 is a short history of human development. Chapter 3 covers such concepts as the distribution of income, elasticity, the first and second laws of thermodynamics and utility. Chapter 4 explores production and consumption. Chapter 5 explores the relationship between economic entropy and money, illustrated by data of the UK and USA economies. Chapter 7 explores the relationship between economic entropy and employment. Chapter 8 sets out the key dynamics of resources.Chapter 9 illustrates trends in non-renewable resources of oil, gas, coal, nuclear power, steel, cement and Aluminium. Chapter 10 illustrates trends in renewable resources, including humankind, water, land and soil, cereals and grain, meat, fish, the greeen revolution, and renewable energy, including hydro-electric power, wind and solar energy. Chapter 11 is a summary of trends relating to climate change and economic output, and chapter 12 summarises how economics and entropy relate to a sustainable world. |
| Keywords: | Thermodynamics, economics, Le Chatelier, entropy, utility, money, equilibrium, value, energy, interest, elasticity, employment, climate change |
| JEL: | A1 C02 C68 D5 E O |
| Date: | 2015–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:voc:wpaper:em201512&r=env |
| By: | John Bryant (Vocat International) |
| Abstract: | Chapter from a book entitled Entropy Man, which deals with the relationships between the disciplines of thermodynamics and economics. Chapter 1 illusrates how entropy impacts on the world in which we live. Chapter 2 is a short history of human development. Chapter 3 covers such concepts as the distribution of income, elasticity, the first and second laws of thermodynamics and utility. Chapter 4 explores production and consumption. Chapter 5 explores the relationship between economic entropy and money, illustrated by data of the UK and USA economies. Chapter 7 explores the relationship between economic entropy and employment. Chapter 8 sets out the key dynamics of resources.Chapter 9 illustrates trends in non-renewable resources of oil, gas, coal, nuclear power, steel, cement and Aluminium. Chapter 10 illustrates trends in renewable resources, including humankind, water, land and soil, cereals and grain, meat, fish, the greeen revolution, and renewable energy, including hydro-electric power, wind and solar energy. Chapter 11 is a summary of trends relating to climate change and economic output, and chapter 12 summarises how economics and entropy relate to a sustainable world. |
| Keywords: | Thermodynamics, economics, Le Chatelier, entropy, utility, money, equilibrium, value, energy, interest, elasticity, employment, climate change |
| JEL: | A1 C02 C68 D5 E O |
| Date: | 2015–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:voc:wpaper:em201510&r=env |
| By: | John Bryant (Vocat International) |
| Abstract: | Chapter from a book entitled Entropy Man, which deals with the relationships between the disciplines of thermodynamics and economics. Chapter 1 illusrates how entropy impacts on the world in which we live. Chapter 2 is a short history of human development. Chapter 3 covers such concepts as the distribution of income, elasticity, the first and second laws of thermodynamics and utility. Chapter 4 explores production and consumption. Chapter 5 explores the relationship between economic entropy and money, illustrated by data of the UK and USA economies. Chapter 7 explores the relationship between economic entropy and employment. Chapter 8 sets out the key dynamics of resources.Chapter 9 illustrates trends in non-renewable resources of oil, gas, coal, nuclear power, steel, cement and Aluminium. Chapter 10 illustrates trends in renewable resources, including humankind, water, land and soil, cereals and grain, meat, fish, the greeen revolution, and renewable energy, including hydro-electric power, wind and solar energy. Chapter 11 is a summary of trends relating to climate change and economic output, and chapter 12 summarises how economics and entropy relate to a sustainable world. |
| Keywords: | Thermodynamics, economics, Le Chatelier, entropy, utility, money, equilibrium, value, energy, interest, elasticity, employment, climate change |
| JEL: | A1 C02 C68 D5 E O |
| Date: | 2015–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:voc:wpaper:em201509&r=env |
| By: | John Bryant (Vocat International) |
| Abstract: | Chapter from a book entitled Entropy Man, which deals with the relationships between the disciplines of thermodynamics and economics. Chapter 1 illusrates how entropy impacts on the world in which we live. Chapter 2 is a short history of human development. Chapter 3 covers such concepts as the distribution of income, elasticity, the first and second laws of thermodynamics and utility. Chapter 4 explores production and consumption. Chapter 5 explores the relationship between economic entropy and money, illustrated by data of the UK and USA economies. Chapter 7 explores the relationship between economic entropy and employment. Chapter 8 sets out the key dynamics of resources.Chapter 9 illustrates trends in non-renewable resources of oil, gas, coal, nuclear power, steel, cement and Aluminium. Chapter 10 illustrates trends in renewable resources, including humankind, water, land and soil, cereals and grain, meat, fish, the greeen revolution, and renewable energy, including hydro-electric power, wind and solar energy. Chapter 11 is a summary of trends relating to climate change and economic output, and chapter 12 summarises how economics and entropy relate to a sustainable world. |
| Keywords: | Thermodynamics, economics, Le Chatelier, entropy, utility, money, equilibrium, value, energy, interest, elasticity, employment, climate change |
| JEL: | A1 C02 C68 D5 E O |
| Date: | 2015–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:voc:wpaper:em201505&r=env |
| By: | John Bryant (Vocat International) |
| Abstract: | Chapter from a book entitled Entropy Man, which deals with the relationships between the disciplines of thermodynamics and economics. Chapter 1 illusrates how entropy impacts on the world in which we live. Chapter 2 is a short history of human development. Chapter 3 covers such concepts as the distribution of income, elasticity, the first and second laws of thermodynamics and utility. Chapter 4 explores production and consumption. Chapter 5 explores the relationship between economic entropy and money, illustrated by data of the UK and USA economies. Chapter 7 explores the relationship between economic entropy and employment. Chapter 8 sets out the key dynamics of resources.Chapter 9 illustrates trends in non-renewable resources of oil, gas, coal, nuclear power, steel, cement and Aluminium. Chapter 10 illustrates trends in renewable resources, including humankind, water, land and soil, cereals and grain, meat, fish, the greeen revolution, and renewable energy, including hydro-electric power, wind and solar energy. Chapter 11 is a summary of trends relating to climate change and economic output, and chapter 12 summarises how economics and entropy relate to a sustainable world. |
| Keywords: | Thermodynamics, economics, Le Chatelier, entropy, utility, money, equilibrium, value, energy, interest, elasticity, employment, climate change |
| JEL: | A1 C02 C68 D5 E O |
| Date: | 2015–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:voc:wpaper:em201503&r=env |
| By: | Montag, Josef |
| Abstract: | The volume of pollution produced by an automobile is determined by driver's behavior along three margins: (i) vehicle selection, (ii) kilometers driven, and (iii) on-road fuel economy. The first two margins have been studied extensively, however the third has received scant attention. How significant is this 'intensive margin'? What would be the optimal policies when it is taken into account? The paper develops and analyzes a simple model of the technical and behavioral mechanisms that determine the volume emissions produced by a car. The results show that an optimal fuel tax would provide drivers with appropriate incentives along all three margins and that only public information is needed for a fuel tax to be set optimally. In contrast, an optimal distance tax would require private information. Lastly, relative to the optimal fuel tax, a simple uniform fuel tax is shown to be progressive. Thus, being already deployed worldwide, a uniform fuel tax is an attractive second-best policy. These findings should be accounted for when designing new mechanisms to alleviate motor vehicle pollution. |
| Keywords: | automobile externalities, car pollution, CO2 emissions, fuel economy, driving behavior, distance tax, fuel tax. |
| JEL: | H23 Q58 R41 R48 |
| Date: | 2015–05–04 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:64524&r=env |
| By: | John Bryant (Vocat International) |
| Abstract: | Chapter from a book entitled Entropy Man, which deals with the relationships between the disciplines of thermodynamics and economics. Chapter 1 illusrates how entropy impacts on the world in which we live. Chapter 2 is a short history of human development. Chapter 3 covers such concepts as the distribution of income, elasticity, the first and second laws of thermodynamics and utility. Chapter 4 explores production and consumption. Chapter 5 explores the relationship between economic entropy and money, illustrated by data of the UK and USA economies. Chapter 7 explores the relationship between economic entropy and employment. Chapter 8 sets out the key dynamics of resources.Chapter 9 illustrates trends in non-renewable resources of oil, gas, coal, nuclear power, steel, cement and Aluminium. Chapter 10 illustrates trends in renewable resources, including humankind, water, land and soil, cereals and grain, meat, fish, the greeen revolution, and renewable energy, including hydro-electric power, wind and solar energy. Chapter 11 is a summary of trends relating to climate change and economic output, and chapter 12 summarises how economics and entropy relate to a sustainable world. |
| Keywords: | Thermodynamics, economics, Le Chatelier, entropy, utility, money, equilibrium, value, energy, interest, elasticity, employment, climate change |
| JEL: | A1 C02 C68 D5 E O |
| Date: | 2015–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:voc:wpaper:em201511&r=env |
| By: | John Bryant (Vocat International) |
| Abstract: | Chapter from a book entitled Entropy Man, which deals with the relationships between the disciplines of thermodynamics and economics. Chapter 1 illusrates how entropy impacts on the world in which we live. Chapter 2 is a short history of human development. Chapter 3 covers such concepts as the distribution of income, elasticity, the first and second laws of thermodynamics and utility. Chapter 4 explores production and consumption. Chapter 5 explores the relationship between economic entropy and money, illustrated by data of the UK and USA economies. Chapter 7 explores the relationship between economic entropy and employment. Chapter 8 sets out the key dynamics of resources.Chapter 9 illustrates trends in non-renewable resources of oil, gas, coal, nuclear power, steel, cement and Aluminium. Chapter 10 illustrates trends in renewable resources, including humankind, water, land and soil, cereals and grain, meat, fish, the greeen revolution, and renewable energy, including hydro-electric power, wind and solar energy. Chapter 11 is a summary of trends relating to climate change and economic output, and chapter 12 summarises how economics and entropy relate to a sustainable world. |
| Keywords: | Thermodynamics, economics, Le Chatelier, entropy, utility, money, equilibrium, value, energy, interest, elasticity, employment, climate change |
| JEL: | A1 C02 C68 D5 E O |
| Date: | 2015–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:voc:wpaper:em201507&r=env |
| By: | John Bryant (Vocat International) |
| Abstract: | Chapter from a book entitled Entropy Man, which deals with the relationships between the disciplines of thermodynamics and economics. Chapter 1 illusrates how entropy impacts on the world in which we live. Chapter 2 is a short history of human development. Chapter 3 covers such concepts as the distribution of income, elasticity, the first and second laws of thermodynamics and utility. Chapter 4 explores production and consumption. Chapter 5 explores the relationship between economic entropy and money, illustrated by data of the UK and USA economies. Chapter 7 explores the relationship between economic entropy and employment. Chapter 8 sets out the key dynamics of resources.Chapter 9 illustrates trends in non-renewable resources of oil, gas, coal, nuclear power, steel, cement and Aluminium. Chapter 10 illustrates trends in renewable resources, including humankind, water, land and soil, cereals and grain, meat, fish, the greeen revolution, and renewable energy, including hydro-electric power, wind and solar energy. Chapter 11 is a summary of trends relating to climate change and economic output, and chapter 12 summarises how economics and entropy relate to a sustainable world. |
| Keywords: | Thermodynamics, economics, Le Chatelier, entropy, utility, money, equilibrium, value, energy, interest, elasticity, employment, climate change |
| JEL: | A1 C02 C68 D5 E O |
| Date: | 2015–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:voc:wpaper:em201504&r=env |
| By: | Amarnath, Giriraj; Sharma, Bharat; Smakhtin, Vladimir |
| Abstract: | Food security and economic livelihood of millions of people in Asia and Africa shall continue to depend upon the flows in the major rivers. Variability of water and other resources in time and space is the major natural impediment for sustainable agriculture, food production and development at large. The extremes of variability - floods and droughts - are the primary \agents\ of destruction, severe crop damage and loss of human life. According to EM-DAT (2012), about 3 billion people in more than 110 countries are affected by catastrophic flooding. In 2011 alone they killed tens of thousands of people, primarily in developing countries, and caused over $150 billion in damage globally. Our present capacity to understand and make a reasonable forecast of the occurrence and thus management of such anomalies is rather inadequate. Earth observation (EO) satellites play a major role in the provision of information for the study and monitoring of the water resources and can support better understanding in Agricultural Water Resource Management. Their global nature also helps to address the problems of data continuity in trans-national basins where complete, consolidated, and consistent information may be difficult to obtain. In the years to come, EO technology will enter into a new era, where the increasing number of more sophisticated missions will provide scientists with an unprecedented capacity to observe and monitor the different components of climate variability on water resources from the local to the global scales. Already today, global observations of several key parameters governing the global water dynamics (e.g. precipitation, soil moisture, evaporation, transpiration, water levels, mass balance, gravity-derived groundwater measurements, etc.) are feasible. In addition, significant progress has been made in the area of data assimilation enhancing the capabilities to integrate EO-based product into suitable land surface and hydrological models; hence opening new opportunities for science and application. The presentation will illustrate examples of such information and solutions globally and from large river basins in Asia and Africa including flood risks and drought monitoring; Smart-lCT system for climate and weather information, irrigated area mapping etc. |
| Keywords: | Earth observation satellites; Remote sensing; Water management; Water resources; Agriculture; Food production; Climate change; River basin |
| Date: | 2014 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iwt:conppr:h046368&r=env |
| By: | Thomas Sauer; Susanne Elsen; Stefan Kuhn; Stephanie Barnebeck; Cristina Garzillo; Yannick Kalff; Judith Schicklinski |
| Abstract: | Taking into account the potentially different starting and framework conditions of regions in dif-ferent parts of the European Union, we will present a new approach for sustainability transition analysis. We hypothesise: favourable overall institutional conditions, such as a high degree of formal and informal local decision-making autonomy, are supportive for innovative institutional arrangements, like self-organised and co-operative forms of management of urban common pool resources. This report aims to explore these conditions systematically in the context of socio-ecological transitions with a special focus on the overarching research question: What is the transformative role of institutional diversification and innovation in the governance of core urban common pool resources? The role of the resource systems energy, urban green spaces and drinking water will be empirically analysed in the context of self-organisation and socio-ecological transition. Finally, policy recommendations based on these findings will be mapped. |
| Keywords: | Socio-ecological transition; Sustainable cities; Sustainable urban transitioning; Beyond GDP; Biophysical constraints; Multi-level governance |
| JEL: | Q56 R11 D70 |
| Date: | 2015–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:feu:wfedel:y:2015:m:3:d:0:i:6&r=env |
| By: | Davis, Katrina J; Kragt, Marit E; Gelcich, Stefan; Burton, Michael; Schilizzi, Steven; Pannell, David J |
| Abstract: | Over-fishing is a global problem that damages the marine environment and compromises the long-term sustainability of fisheries. This damage can be mitigated by restricting catch or other activities that can occur in marine areas. However, such management is only effective when restrictions are enforced to ensure compliance. We expect fishers to help enforce restrictions when they have exclusive user rights and can capture the benefits of management. In a number of such cases, however, fisher participation in the enforcement of user rights is absent. In this analysis we used Chile as a case-study to investigate why fishers do not participate in enforcement even when they have exclusive territorial user rights (TURFs). We used a best-worst scaling survey to assess why fishers would choose not to participate in enforcement through monitoring their TURF management areas, and what would help to increase their participation. We found that the main reason fishers do not monitor is because they consider government policing of marine areas and punishment of poachers to be ineffective. Increased and timely responsiveness by government when poachers are detected and more stringent penalisation of poachers may lead to greater involvement in enforcement by fishers. |
| Keywords: | best-worst scaling, Chile, marine management, monitoring, small-scale fisheries, TURFs, Environmental Economics and Policy, Q220, Q500, Q510, |
| Date: | 2015–05–13 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:uwauwp:204430&r=env |
| By: | Peter A. Groothuis; Tanga M. Mohr; John C. Whitehead; Kristan Cockerill |
| Abstract: | In stated preference survey research, policy consequentiality exists when the respondent believes that the results of a survey will influence actual policy. Payment consequentiality exists when respondents perceive that there is some non-zero probability that they will have to pay the bid amount. In this study we test for both types of consequentiality using a survey about water conservation measures in western North Carolina. Our analysis finds that both policy and payment consequentiality exist in responses to willingness-to-pay for water conservation measures. Respondents who self-report that they perceive the survey to be consequential are willing to pay positive amounts for the policy. Respondents who do not perceive the survey to be consequential answer with protest no responses and are not responsive to the tax amount in the referendum voting question. In addition as the tax amount increases respondents are less likely to find the survey to be consequential. Understanding the boundaries of consequentiality can contribute to improved survey design to estimate public willingness-to-pay for and acceptance of water conservation programs. Key Words: |
| Date: | 2015 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:apl:wpaper:15-04&r=env |
| By: | Bell, Margaret; Bergantino, Angela S.; Catalano, Mario; Galatioto, Fabio |
| Abstract: | This paper illustrates the first results of an ongoing research for developing novel methods to analyse and simulate the relationship between trasport-related air pollutant concentrations and easily accessible explanatory variables. The final scope of the analysis is to integrate the new models in traditional traffic management decision-support systems for a sustainable mobility of road vehicles in urban areas. This first stage concerns the relationship between the mean hourly concentration of nitrogen dioxide and explanatory factors like traffic and weather conditions, with particular reference to the prediction of pollution peaks, defined as exceedances of normative concentration limits. Two modelling frameworks are explored: the Artificial Neural Network approach and the ARIMAX model. Furthermore, the benefit of a synergic use of both models for air quality forecasting is investigated. The analysis of findings points out that the prediction of extreme pollutant concentrations is best performed by the integration of the two models into an ensemble. The neural network is outperformed by the ARIMAX model in foreseeing peaks, but gives a more realistic representation of the relationships between concentration and wind characteristics. So, it can be exploited to direct the ARIMAX model specification. At last, the study shows that the ability at forecasting exceedances of pollution regulative limits can be enhanced by requiring traffic management actions when the predicted concentration exceeds a threshold that is pretty high but lower than the normative one. |
| Date: | 2015 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:sit:wpaper:15_06&r=env |
| By: | Jean De Beir (Université Evry-Val-d’Essonne, EPEE, TEPP); Céline Emond (Université Paris-Est, ERUDITE); Yannick L'Horty (Université Paris-Est, ERUDITE); Laetitia Tuffery (Université Evry-Val-d’Essonne, EPEE, TEPP) |
| Abstract: | In each economy there is employment favourable to biodiversity, which we call bio-jobs. These jobs are located in a small number of branches linked to or controlling natural resources: green core activities, quarrying, public works, water and waste management, etc. We are interested in the economic policies for the preservation of biodiversity which affect the development of employment. We consider a model where government wields two types of instrument: it can support demand in sectors concentrating bio-jobs, through public procurement, or it can seek to promote the development of new productive combinations with more bio-jobs, with subsidies targeted at employment. We seek the most effective combination of these two instruments- demand and supply- and show that government must adopt a differentiated approach depending on the sectors being regulated. We find that the level of private demand and of wages play a major role in the government choice. Finally, we apply these reco mmendations to French data. |
| Keywords: | Employment, biodiversity, public policy |
| JEL: | J21 Q57 |
| Date: | 2015–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fae:wpaper:2015.03&r=env |
| By: | Ian Gough |
| Abstract: | Since climate change threatens human wellbeing across the globe and into the future, we require a concept of wellbeing that encompasses an equivalent ambit. This paper argues that only a concept of human need can do the work required. It compares need theory with three alternative approaches. Preference satisfaction theory is criticised on the grounds of subjectivity, epistemic irrationality, endogenous and adaptive preferences, the limitlessness of wants, the absence of moral evaluation, and the non-specificity of future preferences. The happiness approach is found equally wanting. The main section shows how these deficiencies can be addressed by a coherent theory of need. Human needs are necessary preconditions to avoid serious harm, are universalisable, objective, empirically grounded, non-substitutable and satiable. They are broader than 'material' needs since a need for personal autonomy figures in all theoretical accounts. While needs are universal, need satisfiers are most often contextual and relative to institutions and cultures. The satiability and non-substitutability of needs is critical for understanding sustainability. The capability approaches of Sen and Nussbaum are compared but argued to be less fundamental. Finally, human needs provide the only concept that can ground moral obligations across global space and intergenerational time and thus operationalise 'sustainable welfare'. |
| Keywords: | Human needs, welfare theory, wellbeing, global justice, intergenerational justice, sustainability, preferences, capabilities |
| JEL: | B5 I00 P46 Z13 |
| Date: | 2014–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cep:sticas:case182&r=env |
| By: | Shikha Agrawal |
| Abstract: | Today across the world the biggest problem is environment management and reducing the damage to the natural resources and global warming. It is the responsibility of every individual as well as institutions in the world to work in this direction. Lots of agencies are doing research on various related topics and from the literature review it is observed that in India RBI has already given a direction for the banks through circulars to implement certain strategies for betterment of the environment. So this leads to the question, which banks are green? This paper tries to study the practices in the various commercial banks in India and to find whether they are promoting environment friendly practices or not. Key words: Sustainable development, IDRBT, Green Coin Rating. |
| Date: | 2014–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:vor:issues:2014-03-17&r=env |
| By: | Sneha Master |
| Abstract: | Sustainability of human beings depends on very large extent on the availability of natural resources for future generation. Conservation and accountable usage of natural assets is the responsibility of present generation. Government intervention in the form of law is considered as an important tool for making effective implementation of this responsibility in today’s era. The key is not only to measure the total value of natural assets but also to measure the distribution of benefits, how much goes to each stakeholder group and the dependence of each group on natural capital especially the poor. Key words: green accounting, commerce, legal perspective |
| Date: | 2014–12 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:vor:issues:2014-12-10&r=env |
| By: | Amisha Shah |
| Abstract: | Gandhiji always favoured the education system based on personal life experiences. It has been observed if some live demonstration, real experiences and worth examples are included in academic programmes of management studies; it can definitely be proved fruitful. This can develop spirit of entrepreneurship and the attributes and attitude as future entrepreneurs in students, who are going to be responsible citizens of India. Here, an attempt has been done to show the outcomes and to explain the possibilities of motivating the youth towards sustainable entrepreneurship, which can be proved as an effective step towards the sustainable rural development of India. Key words: Sustainable Entrepreneurship, Udyog, Nai Talim, Life Skill Development, Rural Management |
| Date: | 2014–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:vor:issues:2014-06-14&r=env |
| By: | Trommetter, M. |
| Abstract: | Face aux défis environnementaux : changement climatique et érosion de la biodiversité, il ne s'agit pas nécessairement de remettre en cause le système capitaliste, mais de le réformer pour que le maintien, voire la création, de capital naturel soit créateur de valeur. Pour une organisation, la création de valeur passe aujourd'hui par un système comptable internationalement reconnu. Dans cet article, l'auteur suggère des pistes de travail pour proposer de nouvelles règles comptables, par exemple en termes d'amortissement ou d'augmentation du capital, qui permettent de mieux intégrer les questions de biodiversité dans la stratégie des organisations. |
| Keywords: | BIODIVERSITE;RESSOURCE NATURELLE;COMPTABILITE;REGLE COMPTABLE;STRATEGIE DES ORGANISATIONS |
| JEL: | M14 M41 Q20 |
| Date: | 2015 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gbl:wpaper:2015-08&r=env |