Environmental Economics and Ecosystem Services provides a rigorous yet accessible introduction to environmental economics, using ecosystem services as the underlying framework. Assuming no prior knowledge of economics, and using a conversational writing style, the focus is on exploring society's linkages with the environment and how economics can help solve key environmental problems.

Structured in three parts, the book first introduces readers to the key theories in environmental economics and ecosystem services, and then explores the challenges of conservation. The final section examines environmental policy options, such as cap-and-trade, behavioral nudges, community-based natural resource management and carbon taxes. There is a strong international focus throughout the book, with real-life examples taken from North America, Europe, Asia, Africa and other regions. Students are supported by a range of pedagogical features, including chapter objectives, chapter summaries, discussion questions and further reading suggestions. In addition, the book offers worked examples, analytical problems and "Challenge Yourself" boxes to develop critical thinking skills. Lecture slides and answers to questions for discussion and practice problems are available for instructors.

This is the ideal text for introductory courses in environmental economics, ecological economics, economics of sustainability, environmental management, environmental policy and ecosystem services.

About the Author

Randall Bluffstone is an environmental and natural resource economist, Professor of Economics and Director of the Institute for Economics and the Environment at Portland State University.

Reviews

"Professor Bluffstone has crafted a book full of plain-language explanations of economic concepts and well-chosen examples from around the world. The book's global orientation is vital given our species' vast impacts on the planet's ecosystem services and the importance of understanding how these impacts result from decisions the billions of us make every day in our own local contexts. Students with little prior exposure to economics will especially welcome the book's emphasis on using economics to develop practical solutions to a wide range of tough environmental problems."

- Jeffrey R. Vincent, Ph.D. Clarence F. Korstian Professor of Forest Economics & Management, Duke University, USA

"[This book] is a valuable resource for researchers, students, and instructors interested in an accessible source of information on the economics of conservation, sustainability and climate change. The book contains insights, tools, and policy options to address key issues of our time - especially climate change and pollution. A unique aspect of the book is the inclusion of perspectives from the global south - an important contribution that facilitates a global view of challenging resource and environmental issues. I recommend this volume to those interested in acquiring or enhancing their knowledge of global environmental challenges and learning about economic methods to support policy development."

- Vic Adamowicz, Distinguished University Professor and Vice Dean, University of Alberta, Canada

"It is a well-known fact that the world is faced with a series of local and global environmental challenges. To deal with these, we need to apply our best research, more often than not with multiple disciplines involved. Finally, there is an up-to-date textbook that provides the tools of environmental economics to address local and global environmental issues, including an important focus on applications in the Global South, and that is encouraging interdisciplinary approaches. I will actively encourage its use in teaching within the whole global Environment for Development network, and beyond."

- Gunnar Koehlin, Director Environment for Development, University of Gothenburg, Sweden

Book Information
ISBN 9781032311302
Author Randall Bluffstone
Format Paperback
Page Count 494
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd