Principles of Sustainability Economics

Is economic development reachable on an exhausted planet? Based on state-of-the-art knowledge in economics, this book provides a mixed answer. Greener behaviour and technologies may potentially release environmental pressure while allowing future generations to be better off. However, we are far off track, due to a mixture of inappropriate institutions and adverse incentives. The book explains why it is the case in a rigorous way, combining facts, concepts and relevant references. Focusing on present-day environmental challenges, a number of core economic principles are progressively established, with a set of corrected problems to check understanding. The book does not require previous knowledge in economics and is not limited to a specific geographical area. It will be of interest for any social or natural sciences student who is concerned by sustainability dilemmas and eager to know how economics as a social discipline can help identify the Gordian knots and devise appropriate solutions.

Jean-Marie Grether holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Geneva, Switzerland. He has worked on economic integration and economic development issues for various universities and international organizations in Europe and America. At the University of Neuchâtel, Switzerland, he has developed an original trans-disciplinary course on sustainability economics followed by students from different backgrounds (Economics, Humanities and Natural Sciences). Since 2017, he is also the vice-rector in charge of sustainability policies on the campus.Inmaculada Martínez-Zarzoso holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Birmingham, UK, and is a Professor at the University Jaume I, Spain, and at the University of Göttingen, Germany. She is active in the steering committees of international research networks and an adviser of global organizations such as the World Bank, OECD, and Commonwealth. Her research focuses on the intersection of international, environmental, and development economics. She has authored three books and numerous articles in prestigious journals.