The Role of Economic Instruments in Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection

The author analyzes the association between economic development and the protection of the environment. He reviews an array of attitudes toward the issue of interdependency of economic activities and the environment, ranging from the more traditional to new ways of thinking. Factors leading to environmental degradation such as rapid population growth are investigated. After presenting a cost-benefit analysis in terms of economic growth, development, welfare and ethics, he discusses the availability of effective means of solving environmental problems.