Introduction to Ecological & Environmental Economics - ENV00030C

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Module summary

Provide students with a critical understanding of the divide between environmental and ecological economics, as well as the main theories and concepts that underpin both fields of knowledge from both micro- and macroeconomic perspectives.

Module will run

Occurrence	Teaching period
A	Spring Term 2022-23

Module aims

·         To provide students with a critical understanding of the divide between environmental and ecological economics, as well as the main theories and concepts that underpin both fields of knowledge from both micro- and macroeconomic perspectives. These fundamental ecological- and environmental-economics principles will feed into more advanced modules in years 2 and 3.

·         To develop ‘hands-on’ experience in manipulating quantitative datasets and acquire methodological skills by using different economic analytical tools. Students follow a problem-based approach in a series of practical sessions, where they learn how to use mainstream analytical techniques, such as Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA), Sustainability Indicators, and Scenario Analysis.

To provide students with key skills training in the research process, fundamental calculations for ecological and environmental economics.

Module learning outcomes

Subject content

·         To understand key concepts of environmental and ecological economics, and be able to apply those concepts in economic analysis

·         To have an awareness of key quantitative research methods in ecological and environmental economics

Academic and graduate skills

·         To gain the ability to examine the interactions between the economy, society and the environment with the use of several analytical tools used in the fields of environmental and ecological economics

·         To be competent in analysing, interpreting and reporting quantitative data sets

·         To be competent in solving numerical problems using different computer-based techniques

To be able to find and use relevant sources for research and critical evaluation of sustainability issues

Indicative assessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	100

Module feedback

Feedback after assessment

Indicative reading

Daly, H. E. and Farley, J. (2011) Ecological Economics: Principles and Applications, 2nd ed., Island Press, Washington, DC.

Hussen, Ahmed M. (2012) Principles of Environmental Economics and Sustainability: An Integrated Economic and Ecological Approach, Routledge, London and New York.

Berck, P. and Helfand, G. (2010) Economics of the Environment, Pearson.