Environmental and Natural Resource Economics B100:4, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The aim of the course is to offer an insight in environmental and natural resource economics and a deeper analysis of environmental policy instruments. The concept of natural resources is applied on renewable resources, such as forests, but also on non-renewable resources such as oil and minerals. The resource allocation is analyzed within the framework of perfect competition but also in situations where the markets are characterized by imperfect competition and negative externalities. The theoretical models are applied on different kind of environmental issues. Central questions are: How much shall we spend on improving the environment? How efficient are different policy instruments?

The course also introduces various econometric methods, such as binary models, to determine the value of non-market priced resources, e.g. rare species. Other models to determine the effect of different environmental policies are also introduced.

Expected learning outcomes

Upon completing this course, students should be able to:

• Apply basic theories within the field of environmental- and resource economics.
• Describe and exemplify how environmental policy instruments, as Pigouvian taxes or quantity regulations, work and discuss pros- and cons with different policy instrument.
• Explain the problems with non-market priced resources and be able to analyze theoretical as well as empirical models
• Apply basic empirical models on relevant data with the area of environmental policy.

Required Knowledge

Economics B100:1 or equivalent.

Form of instruction

The education is given in form of lectures, group sessions and seminars.

Examination modes

The examination consist of written examination in the end of each module, assignments and seminars.

The result from assignments and seminars are only valid during the current semester. Student not having a Pass on assignments or seminars will be given additional, corresponding, parts on the final exam

A second exam opportunity is always offered within a short time span after the regular exam date for those students not achieving a Pass, except Module 4 during spring semesters. The subsequent exam opportunity is either the re-take opportunity the week before the fall semester or the next regular exam date.

The following grading system will be used: Pass with Distinction (Väl Godkänd), Pass (Godkänd) or Fail (Underkänd). Grades on the course are awarded when the student has passed all examinations and compulsory course elements on all four modules. The grade Pass with Distinction on the course requires the grade Pass with Distinction on at least three out of four modules.

It is normally not possible to make additional examinations to reach a higher grade. Exceptions can be made for a student with the grade Fail on any of the examinations if the examiner (not the lecturer) finds this appropriate. The task must be a minor undertaking, closely related to the learning outcome not reached, and performed in close proximity to the original examination.

When a student has failed an examination on two occasions, he or she has a right to have another grading teacher. A written request for an alternative examiner should be handed to the Dean of the Business School no later than two weeks before the next examination opportunity.

Credit transfer
Academic credit transfers are according to the University credit transfer regulations.