Intro to Environmental Economics and Policy
Econ 2277.01, Boston College
Prof. Richard Sweeney
Overview
This course provides an introduction to the economics of environmental policy. We begin by identifying the economically efficient level of environmental quality. We then discuss why unregulated markets are unlikely to obtain this outcome. Finally, we discuss public policy options to correct this market failure, and develop tools to assess the costs and benefits of each approach. Throughout out the course, real world examples are presented alongside each topic. In addition to discussing local air pollution, water policy, conservation and natural resource management, we will spend a considerable amount of time discussing global climate change.
For additional details and course policies, see the syllabus.
Course Calendar
This list is tentative and subject to change. Check Canvas for assignment due dates
| Date | Topic |
|---|---|
| 8/30 | Intro |
| 9/1 | Efficiency - Static |
| 9/6 | Efficiency - Dynamic |
| 9/8 | Coase |
| 9/13 | Benefits - Part I |
| 9/15 | Benefits - Part II |
| 9/20 | Costs - Part I |
| 9/22 | Costs - Part II |
| 9/27 | BCA - Case: MATS |
| 9/29 | BCA - Theory; Equity |
| 10/4 | Midterm I |
| 10/6 | Public Goods / Tragedy of the Commons |
| 10/11 | No class ( Monday schedule ) |
| 10/13 | International Climate Cooperation |
| 10/18 | Managing Renewable Resources |
| 10/20 | Policy Example: Fisheries |
| 10/25 | Managing Nonrenewable Resources |
| 10/27 | Sustainability |
| 11/1 | Review |
| 11/3 | Midterm II |
| 11/8 | Market-Based Regulation / Cost-Effectiveness |
| 11/10 | Taxes |
| 11/15 | Social Cost of Carbon |
| 11/17 | Setting Quantities |
| 11/22 | Cap-and-trade review |
| 11/24 | No class (Thanksgiving) |
| 11/29 | Prices vs Quantities |
| 12/1 | Policy Choice |
| 12/6 | US Climate policy; Subsidies |
| 12/8 | Overlapping / Subnational policy |
| 12/20 | Final exam (9 am) |