NATURAL RESOURCE ECONOMICS

Catalog description

This course introduces students to the economics and management of Earth's natural resources. We address questions such as: Are we running out of natural resources? Are we using resources in a sustainable fashion? What role to markets play in resource use? We will address issues related to fossil-based resources, minerals, fisheries, water, land, forests and other associated topics. The course covers the basic theoretical framework for understanding the optimal rate of resource use, identifies the factors that determine the actual rate of use, and considers and evaluates various public policy prescriptions. (Cross-listed with ECON 4320 ).