AF7021 - Applied Environmental Economics

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.

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.

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)

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).

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.

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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.