AF7021 - Applied Environmental Economics

What will I learn on this module?

The module introduces you to applied methodologies and techniques for analysing and evaluating environmental problems from different economics and social perspectives. The module conceptualises pollution and other environmental issues as economic problems, exploring methods and tools that can be used to determine the appropriate level of environmental quality and choice of policy instruments for the attainment of environmental standards. You will examine several forms of pollution -- air, water, toxic wastes, global warming, ozone depletion -- and the polices that have been employed to control them. You will learn a range of advanced econometric models as well as their applications, developing a deep understanding of theoretical concepts underpinning many empirical research studies and acquiring the appropriate knowledge to apply these concepts to real data analysis. The module covers the analysis of cross-section, time series and panel data analysis with the specific focus on real-life applications.



Outline Syllabus:

The environment and its economics

Kuznets’ curve

Principle of cost-benefit analysis

Introduction to contingent valuation

Willingness to pay and willingness to accept

Discrete choice modelling



At the end of this module, you will be able to apply appropriate quantitative techniques to appraise and valuate a wide range of environmental problems and policies. By acquiring these critical skills, you will significantly enhance your employability and capacity to undertake a doctoral research programme with a significant empirical component.

How will I learn on this module?

You will learn on this module through a mix of lectures (12 hours), workshops (24 hours), independent learning, structured engagement, and tutor support. The module is applied in nature. Taught components in this module involve an examination of theories and frameworks underpinning real world settings and the analysis of real-world data. You will study and replicate examples from published empirical research projects in environmental economics. Lectures will increase your understanding of environmental economics including its relevance to current and future policy issues. Independent learning will focus on increasing your knowledge of environmental economics as well as your understanding of econometric tools. Directed learning will centre upon a range of activities including pre-reading, preparation for workshops, practice in IT lab with statistical software packages, and use of the discussion board to learn and share knowledge.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

You will be supported by a teaching and learning plan (TLP) that outlines the pattern and content of the formal sessions, together with tutor-directed study and independent reading. Support will be provided to you by a module lead and workshop tutors who will provide support on a formative basis during each workshop. Your lectures will be recorded and uploaded to the e-learning portal which you will be able to access to consolidate your knowledge and develop understanding. Your module is supported by an e-learning portal that houses lecture materials, and exercises and data files for use in workshop sessions. You will be provided with a wide-ranging electronic reading list that comprises of various academic reports, conference papers, video links and journal articles that will introduce you to the theory and application of the techniques introduced in the module. Your module assessment consists of empirically motivated work in environmental economics and you will be encouraged to remain an active participant in the learning process throughout the semester. Econometric software functions related to various models will be taught alongside module content to support your learning.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding (KU):


To understand and critique important applied environmental economics (MLO1)

To formulate and apply a range econometric models relevant to measure and assess environmental problems from an economic perspective. (MLO2).



Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities (IPSA):


To use software packages for the statistical analysis of data (MLO3).

To appreciate the relevance of theory for empirical applications (MLO4).



Personal Values Attributes (PVA):



You will develop a robust analytical skillset that will enable you to analyse and interpret a wide range of environmental issues within and outside the disciplines of economics. (MLO5).

How will I be assessed?

Formative assessment:

The formative assessment will comprise of discussion questions based on pre-assigned readings, exercises and case studies which will be distributed to you in advance. There will be individual and group discussion of these questions during the workshops. This will encourage your active participation in the learning process throughout the semester. The e-Learning portal will be used to permanently host these tasks after release to ensure that you can access the information required at all times.




Summative assessment:

This is made up of an assignment in the form of a 3,000 word essay requiring (100%). Students will be required to deliver a report-style essay addressing an environmental issue of their choice, collecting data and analysing them in view of examining related social and economic problems and delivering policy recommendations and solutions. This assessment will address MLO1- MLO5.

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

This module expands your knowledge of environmental economics and related econometric techniques. The module provides you with econometric skills and knowledge to analyse and interpret real-world data, stimulating your theoretical and practical understanding of environmental economics. The content and structure of this module provides a comprehensive overview of environmental theories associated with a wide range of economics, policy, and social issues. The module includes practical workshops which require the use of econometric software packages. At the end of this module, you will be able to apply appropriate econometric techniques to a wide range of environmental data, and to discuss and explain results concisely and consistently. By acquiring these critical skills, you will significantly enhance your profile in terms of employability and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Course info

Credits 20

Level of Study Postgraduate

Mode of Study 2 Years Full Time with Study Abroad
2 other options available

Department Newcastle Business School

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2023

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

Full time Courses starting in 2023 are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but may include elements of online learning. We continue to monitor government and local authority guidance in relation to Covid-19 and we are ready and able to flex accordingly to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with additional restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors, potentially to a full online offer, should further restrictions be deemed necessary in future. Our online activity will be delivered through Blackboard Ultra, enabling collaboration, connection and engagement with materials and people.

 

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