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on Environmental Economics |
| By: | Halkos, George; Tzeremes, Nickolaos |
| Abstract: | By applying conditional and unconditional data envelopment analysis (DEA) models along side with statistical inference using bootstrap techniques; this paper investigates the link between China’s carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) environmental efficiency and its economic growth (measured in GNI per capita) for the time period of 1965 to 2009. The results reveal that China’s changing consumption patterns has caused emissions levels to increase dramatically the last two decades providing clear evidence of a negative effect of China’s GNI per capita increase on its environmental efficiency. |
| Keywords: | Environmental efficiency; Economic growth; Carbon dioxide emissions; China; Data envelopment analysis; Conditional efficiency; Bootstrap procedures |
| JEL: | C14 Q56 O4 C60 |
| Date: | 2011 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:32839&r=env |
| By: | Llop, Maria; Tol, Richard S. J. |
| Abstract: | The analysis of gas emissions by an input-output subsystem approach provides detailed insights into pollution generation in an economy by revealing the channels by which the environmental burdens are caused and transmitted throughout the production system. In this paper we propose a decomposition of the greenhouse gas emissions by using an input-output subsystems model. The empirical application is for the Irish economy, and the economic and environmental data are for year 2005. Our results show that large asymmetries exist not only in the quantitative contribution of the different activities to greenhouse gas emissions but also in the decomposed effects of this contribution. |
| Keywords: | decomposition/Input Output Model/Republic of Ireland/Ireland/data |
| Date: | 2011–08 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:esr:wpaper:wp398&r=env |
| By: | He, Jie; Wang, Hua |
| Abstract: | In many cases, the relationship between environmental pollution and economic development can be generally depicted by an inverted U-shaped curve, or an environmental Kuznets curve, where pollution increases with income at the beginning and decreases after a certain level of income. However, what determine the shape of an enviornmental Kuznets curve, such as the height and the turning point of the curve, have not been thoroughly studied. A good understanding of the determinants is vitally important to the development community, especially for the developing world, where income growth is a high priority and yet environmental pollution also needs to be carefully controlled. This study analyzes the impacts of economic structure, development strategy and environmental regulation on the shape of the environmental Kuznets curve with a city-level panel dataset obtained from China. The results show that economic structure, development strategy and environmental regulation can all have important implications on the relationship between environmental environmental quality and economic development but the impacts can be different at different development stages. |
| Keywords: | Environmental Economics&Policies,Economic Theory&Research,Emerging Markets,Population Policies,Green Issues |
| Date: | 2011–08–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wbk:wbrwps:5756&r=env |
| By: | Halkos, George; Tzeremes, Nickolaos |
| Abstract: | Using time series data, this paper investigates China’s carbon emissions during 1960-2006, with particular focus on the direct role of growth and in connection to trade and the value added by various sectors like agriculture, industry and services. Our empirical results indicate the presence of an inverted U-shaped curve between CO2 emissions and growth represented by the GDP per capita. Trade seems to be an important determinant in this relationship. |
| Keywords: | CO2 emissions; Economic growth; Trade; Environmental kuznets curve; China |
| JEL: | C51 O10 Q56 C22 |
| Date: | 2011 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:32840&r=env |
| By: | Dietz, Simon |
| Abstract: | This note considers the treatment of risk and uncertainty in the recently established social cost of carbon (SCC) for analysis of federal regulations in the United States. It argues that the analysis of the US Interagency Working Group on Social Cost of Carbon did not go far enough into the tail of low-probability, high-impact scenarios, and, via its approach to discounting, it mis-estimated climate risk, possibly hugely. Given the uncertainty about estimating the SCC, the note concludes by arguing that there is in fact much to commend an approach whereby a quantitative, long-term emissions target is chosen, and the price of carbon for regulatory impact analysis is then based on estimates of the marginal cost of abatement to achieve that very target. -- |
| Keywords: | Ambiguity,climate change,discounting,integrated assessment modelling,risk,social cost of carbon,uncertainty |
| JEL: | Q54 |
| Date: | 2011 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:ifwedp:201130&r=env |
| By: | Ji-Won Park; Chae Un Kim; Walter Isard |
| Abstract: | In emissions trading, the initial permit allocation is an intractable issue because it needs to be essentially fair to the participating countries. There are many ways to distribute a given total amount of emissions permits among countries, but the existing distribution methods such as auctioning and grandfathering have been debated. Here we describe a new model for permit allocation in emissions trading using the Boltzmann distribution. The Boltzmann distribution is introduced to permit allocation by combining it with concepts in emissions trading. A price determination mechanism for emission permits is then developed in relation to the {\beta} value in the Boltzmann distribution. Finally, it is demonstrated how emissions permits can be practically allocated among participating countries in empirical results. The new allocation model using the Boltzmann distribution describes a most probable, natural, and unbiased distribution of emissions permits among multiple countries. Based on its simplicity and versatility, the model using the Boltzmann distribution has potential for various economic and environmental studies. |
| Date: | 2011–08 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:1108.2305&r=env |
| By: | Golosov, Mikhail; Hassler, John; Krusell, Per; Tsyvinski, Aleh |
| Abstract: | We analyze a dynamic stochastic general-equilibrium (DSGE) model with an externality---through climate change---from using fossil energy. A central result of our paper is an analytical derivation of a simple formula for the marginal externality damage of emissions. This formula, which holds under quite plausible assumptions, reveals that the damage is proportional to current GDP, with the proportion depending only on three factors: (i) discounting, (ii) the expected damage elasticity (how many percent of the output flow is lost from an extra unit of carbon in the atmosphere), and (iii) the structure of carbon depreciation in the atmosphere. Very importantly, future values of output, consumption, and the atmospheric CO2 concentration, as well as the paths of technology and population, and so on, all disappear from the formula. The optimal tax, using a standard Pigou argument, is then equal to this marginal externality. The simplicity of the formula allows the optimal tax to be easily parameterized and computed. Based on parameter estimates that rely on updated natural-science studies, we find that the optimal tax should be a bit higher than the median, or most well-known, estimates in the literature. We also show how the optimal taxes depend on the expectations and the possible resolution of the uncertainty regarding future damages. Finally, we compute the optimal and market paths for the use of energy and the corresponding climate change. |
| Keywords: | climate externality; integrated assessment model; optimal carbon taxes |
| JEL: | E0 Q5 |
| Date: | 2011–08 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:8527&r=env |
| By: | Hans Gersbach; Noemi Hummel; Ralph Winkler |
| Abstract: | We examine a global refunding scheme for mitigating climate change. Countries pay an initial fee into a global fund that is invested in long-run assets. In each period, part of the fund is distributed among the participating countries in relation to the emission reductions they have achieved in this period. We identify two possible types of sustainable treaty. A first-best sustainable treaty involves varying amounts of refunded wealth and a minimal amount of initial fees inducing socially desirable abatement efforts in each period. In a secondbest sustainable treaty with only two parameters - optimally selected initial fees and constant refunds equal to the interest earned on the fund - the stock of greenhouse gases converges to the socially optimal stock. Finally, we suggest ways for countries to raise money for the payment of initial fees that are neutral to tax payers and international capital markets. |
| Keywords: | climate change mitigation; refunding scheme; international agreements; |
| JEL: | Q54 H23 H41 |
| Date: | 2011–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ube:dpvwib:dp1105&r=env |
| By: | Stephen Perkins |
| Abstract: | Transport figures prominently on green growth agendas. The reason is twofold. First, transport has major environmental impacts in terms of greenhouse gas emissions, local air emissions and noise. And managing congestion more effectively is part of the broader agenda for more sustainable development and better use of resources invested in infrastructure. Second, a large part of public expenditure to stimulate green growth is directed at transport sector industries. This concerns most notably alternative vehicles, and particularly electric cars, a key part of strategies to decarbonise transport. Several countries also financed car scrapping and replacement schemes as a short term response to the 2008 financial crisis. The primary goal here was counter-cyclical stimulus for the car manufacturing industry with, in most cases, a secondary goal of reducing CO2 emissions and fuel consumption through fleet renewal. Some governments also include investment in high speed rail as a central element of longer term green growth policies, aiming at a shift in passenger traffic from cars and short haul aviation to rail. |
| Date: | 2011–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:itfaab:2011/2-en&r=env |
| By: | Amnon Levy (University of Wollongong) |
| Abstract: | The responsibility for, and consequences of, greenhouse gas emissions are shared by all countries, but only a few are willing to tax emissions. The paper argues that the reactions of the abstaining countries are crucial for assessing the effectiveness of the tax. The paper analyzes an interaction between a tax-collecting and investing coalition of rich countries, abstaining rich countries and poor countries. The non-coalition countries might have loss of reputation and guilt and overstate the tax’s emission-moderating effect. As long as these three types of countries react to their counterparts’ emissions, taxing emissions does not necessarily reduce the global emissions. |
| Keywords: | Emission Tax; Abstinence; Understating Expectations; Guilt; Global Emissions |
| JEL: | Q52 |
| Date: | 2011 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:uow:depec1:wp11-01&r=env |
| By: | Nelly Petkova; Rafal Stanek; Angela Bularga |
| Abstract: | The purpose of this study is to examine the medium-term budget planning process in Ukraine and the extent to which this approach is used within the environmental sector. It aims to assist the Ukrainian government to integrate environmental programmes more effectively into overall programming, financial planning and budgeting practices which could result into more adequate and predictable allocations to the environment sector. The study also seeks to analyse the implications of the progressive shift in aid modalities towards sectoral and general budget support. This report was prepared within the framework of the OECD Task Force for the Implementation of the Environmental Action Programme for Central and Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia. The report also builds upon work that started within the OECD Task Team on Governance and Capacity Development for Natural Resource and Environmental Management, a joint Task Team of the OECD Development Assistance and Environmental Policy Committees. In addition, the report contributes to the debate on Green Growth, demonstrating the need for more adequate and well-costed environmental budgets, in the context of medium-term expenditure frameworks, as a means of promoting structural changes as part of the transition to green economy. |
| Keywords: | budget systems, Ukraine, direct budget support, environmental public expenditure management, environmental management, environmental investment programmes, development cooperation, medium-term budgeting, medium-term expenditure frameworks, Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia (EECCA) |
| JEL: | E61 H61 O13 O19 O52 P28 Q01 Q56 Q57 |
| Date: | 2011–03–28 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:envaaa:31-en&r=env |
| By: | Alain-Désiré Nimubona; Horatiu Rus (Department of Economics, University of Waterloo) |
| Abstract: | We develop a two-country general equilibrium model of foreign assistance tied to environmental clean-up in the presence of transboundary pollution. The recipient country generates pollution as a by-product in the production of a ‘dirty’ good, which it consumes as well as exports to the donor country. In contrast to the literature which typically treats aid as a monetary transfer, we assume that foreign aid consists in a transfer of environmental technology that lowers the cost of public clean-up in the recipient country. We highlight the fact that the marginal propensities to consume the polluting good in the donor and recipient countries are driving the terms of trade effect at work in our model. The environmental and welfare outcomes are influenced by the direct, terms of trade and abatement effects of the transfer. We show that such tied aid may be Pareto improving if the clean-up effect of the foreign aid is strong enough to compensate for the donor’s monetary and terms of trade losses. We finally analyze the effects of the green transfer combined with an appropriate border tax adjustment. Contrary to intuition, we find that green technology transfers and border tax adjustments are not complements. |
| JEL: | F18 F35 O13 Q28 |
| Date: | 2011–05 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wat:wpaper:1102&r=env |
| By: | Wang, Hua |
| Abstract: | Stakeholder dialogue, as an alternative institutional strategy for environmentally and socially sustainable development, has received little attention from researchers and practitioners in developing countries such as China, even though the dialogue strategy can potentially lead public governance to a more efficient level. This paper first discusses the potential of stakeholder dialogue as an institutional tool for promoting sustainable development in China, and then presents a pilot program of stakeholder dialogue recently developed in China -- the community environmental roundtables. Community leaders organize roundtable dialogues where representatives from government agencies, companies and the local residents exchange their views toward certain environmental issues they are facing and discuss possible ways to resolve the issues. Informal agreements are reached during the dialogues and implemented after them. This community roundtable dialogue strategy has been piloted in dozens of Chinese municipalities, addressing various environmental issues. A survey of dialogue participants shows that significant impacts have been generated on environmental protection, community management, as well as social and institutional development at the community level. Mutual understanding and trust among the government, companies, and local citizens are enhanced, environmental and social conflicts are reduced, and the public performance of various parties has been improved. This approach is expected to help solve other conflicts and public governance issues in China as well. The potential challenges of institutionalizing such a program in China are also discussed in the paper. |
| Keywords: | Environmental Economics&Policies,National Governance,Governance Indicators,Parliamentary Government,Civil Society |
| Date: | 2011–08–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wbk:wbrwps:5759&r=env |
| By: | Betzer, André (University of Wuppertal); Doumet, Markus (University of Mannheim); Rinne, Ulf (IZA) |
| Abstract: | This paper analyzes how policy changes affect shareholder wealth in the context of environmental regulation. We exploit the unique and unexpected German reaction to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, which involved the immediate shutdown of almost half of Germany’s nuclear reactors while safety checks were carried out, and a three-month moratorium on extending the lives of others. Using the event study methodology, our findings indicate a wealth transfer from nuclear energy companies to renewable energies companies in Germany. We moreover find that the joint market capitalization of these firms has decreased, but the amount of this combined decrease is small. Substantial heterogeneity in the shareholder wealth effects across European countries can be linked to different nuclear energy policies. The shareholder wealth of nuclear and conventional energy companies in the United States has been unaffected. |
| Keywords: | electric power, nuclear power, green economy, earthquake, tsunami, event study, environment |
| JEL: | Q48 Q54 G38 |
| Date: | 2011–08 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iza:izadps:dp5896&r=env |
| By: | Aditi Sengupta |
| Abstract: | I analyze the pricing and investment behavior of a firm that signals the environmental attribute of its production technology through its price to uninformed environmentally conscious consumers. I then analyze the effect of change in environmental regulation on the signaling outcome and the firm's ex ante incentive to invest in cleaner technology. When regulation is weak, a firm signals cleaner technology through higher price; in this case, the firm earns lower profit when it has cleaner technology and thus, has no incentive to invest in cleaner technology. The price charged by the clean firm declines sharply beyond a critical level of regulation. When regulation is sufficiently stringent, the firm with cleaner technology charges lower price but earns higher signaling profit, and ex ante the firm has positive incentive to invest in cleaner technology. With weak regulation, the incentive of the firm to directly disclose its environmental performance rather than signal it through price (signaling distortion of profit) is increasing in the level of regulation, but the opposite holds when regulation is sufficiently stringent. |
| Keywords: | Environmental consciousness; Environmental regulation; Incomplete information; Investment; Signaling |
| JEL: | D42 D43 D82 L51 |
| Date: | 2011–08 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:abn:wpaper:auwp2011-10&r=env |
| By: | Stéphane Hallegatte; Fanny Henriet; Anand Patwardhan; K. Narayanan; Subimal Ghosh; Subhankar Karmakar; Unmesh Patnaik; Abhijat Abhayankar; Sanjib Pohit; Jan Corfee-Morlot; Celine Herweijer; Nicola Ranger; Sumana Bhattacharya; Murthy Bachu; Satya Priya; K. Dhore; Farhat Rafique; P. Mathur; Nicolas Naville |
| Abstract: | Managing risks from extreme events will be a crucial component of climate change adaptation. In this study, we demonstrate an approach to assess future risks and quantify the benefits of adaptation options at a city-scale, with application to flood risk in Mumbai. In 2005, Mumbai experienced unprecedented flooding, causing direct economic damages estimated at almost two billion USD and 500 fatalities. Our findings suggest that by the 2080s, in a SRES A2 scenario, an ‘upper bound’ climate scenario could see the likelihood of a 2005-like event more than double. We estimate that total losses (direct plus indirect) associated with a 1-in-100 year event could triple compared with current situation (to $690 – $1890 million USD), due to climate change alone. Continued rapid urbanisation could further increase the risk level. Moreover, a survey on the consequences of the 2005 floods on the marginalized population reveals the special vulnerability of the poorest, which is not apparent when looking only through a window of quantitative analysis and aggregate figures. For instance, the survey suggests that total losses to the marginalized population from the 2005 floods could lie around $250 million, which represents a limited share of total losses but a large shock for poor households. The analysis also demonstrates that adaptation could significantly reduce future losses; for example, estimates suggest that by improving the drainage system in Mumbai, losses associated with a 1-in-100 year flood event today could be reduced by as much as 70%. We show that assessing the indirect costs of extreme events is an important component of an adaptation assessment, both in ensuring the analysis captures the full economic benefits of adaptation and also identifying options that can help to manage indirect risks of disasters. For example, we show that by extending insurance to 100% penetration, the indirect effects of flooding could be almost halved. As shown by the survey, the marginalized population has little access to financial support in disaster aftermaths, and targeting this population could make the benefits of such measures even larger. While this study explores only the upper-bound climate scenario and is insufficient to design an adaptation strategy, it does demonstrate the value of risk-assessment as an important quantitative tool in developing city-scale adaptation strategies. We conclude with a discussion of sources of uncertainty, and of risk-based tools that could be linked with decision-making approaches to inform adaptation plans that are robust to climate change.<BR>hangement climatique. Dans cette étude, nous décrivons une méthode permettant d’évaluer les risques futurs et de quantifier les avantages de solutions d’adaptation à l’échelle urbaine, puis nous l’appliquons à l’estimation des risques d’inondation à Mumbai (Bombay). En 2005, une inondation sans précédent frappait la ville de Mumbai, faisant 500 victimes et occasionnant des dommages économiques directs estimés à près de deux milliards de dollars. Nos résultats suggèrent que, d’ici les années 2080, en appliquant le scénario SRES A2 et en sélectionnant un scénario climatique dans le haut de la fourchette, la probabilité d’un événement tel que celui de 2005 pourrait plus que doubler. Selon nos estimations, les pertes totales (directes et indirectes) causées par une catastrophe centennale pourraient tripler par rapport à leur niveau actuel (pour atteindre 690 à 1890 millions de dollars), du seul fait du changement climatique. L’urbanisation rapide et continue pourrait accroître d’autant plus le niveau de risque. D’autre part, l’étude que nous avons faite des conséquences des inondations de 2005 sur les populations marginalisées met en lumière la vulnérabilité particulière des plus démunis, qui n’est pas apparente lorsqu’on se limite aux analyses quantitatives et aux chiffres globaux. Par exemple, selon notre étude, le total des pertes subies lors des inondations de 2005 par les personnes marginalisées avoisinerait 250 millions de dollars, une faible part du total des dommages, mais un désastre considérable pour les foyers pauvres. Notre analyse montre également que l’adaptation pourrait substantiellement réduire les dommages futurs : nous estimons ainsi que les dommages causés par une inondation centennale pourraient être réduits de 70 % si l’on améliore le réseau d’assainissement de Mumbai. Quand on procède à une évaluation de l’adaptation, il importe d’estimer les coûts indirects des événements extrêmes car on peut ainsi à la fois intégrer à l’analyse l’ensemble des avantages économiques de l’adaptation et identifier des options de gestion des risques indirects liés aux catastrophes. Par exemple, nous montrons que si 100 % des habitants étaient en mesure de souscrire une assurance, les effets indirects des inondations pourraient être réduits de près de la moitié. Comme l’indique notre étude, la population marginalisée a peu accès aux aides financières après les catastrophes : les avantages de telles mesures pourraient donc être encore plus élevés si cette population était ciblée en priorité. Notre étude se limite à un scénario climatique dans le haut de la fourchette et ne suffit pas à élaborer une stratégie d’adaptation à part entière. Néanmoins, elle démontre la valeur des évaluations des risques, outils de mesure importants quand il s’agit de concevoir des stratégies d’adaptation à l’échelle urbaine. Nous concluons par un examen des sources d’incertitude ainsi que des outils fondés sur les risques qui, associés à des processus décisionnels, permettraient de formuler des plans d’adaptation durable au changement climatique. |
| Keywords: | sustainable development, insurance, government policy, climate change, global warming, natural disasters, flood management, adaptation, urban planning, développement durable, assurance, changement climatique, réchauffement climatique, adaptation, catastrophes naturelles, gestion des inondations, aménagement urbain, action publique |
| JEL: | E20 O18 Q01 Q54 R11 R52 |
| Date: | 2010–11–22 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:envaaa:27-en&r=env |
| By: | Anne Hammill; Thomas Tanner |
| Abstract: | Development planners and project managers have used a wide variety of tools to manage a broad range of environmental risks, including those posed by climate variability, for a long time. Some of these tools have also now been modified to take into account the risks posed by climate change. At the same time, there has been a recent emphasis in developing more dedicated tools which have an explicit focus on screening for climate change risks and for facilitating adaptation. The purpose of this paper is to analyse this latter set of tools targeted to screen climate change risks. The paper focuses on the need to consider the experiences of users as well as developers, and to investigate the extent to which tools are meeting user needs and if opportunities may exist for streamlining the tools landscape. This analysis is therefore an effort to contribute to the alignment and harmonisation priorities of the Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness of March 2005 and the follow-up Accra Agenda for Action of September 2008. While a “one-size-fits-all” approach or methodology may not be appropriate, there may be opportunities to provide common guidance on specific topics, such as categorisation and risk management frameworks, and to clarify the diverse terminology. In an effort to improve the use of screening and assessment tools, the paper recommends that the development community increase partner country ownership of risk screening and assessment tools/processes, narrow the gap between process guidance tools and data and information provision tools, supply guidance for users in moving from analysis to action and collaborate to prepare harmonised guidelines. While this analysis is limited to tools which have an explicit focus on climate change and adaptation, future work should also consider existing risk analysis tools which are practically used in development planning and modified for applications to adaptation.<BR>Les responsables de la planification du développement et les gestionnaires de projets utilisent depuis longtemps une batterie d’instruments très divers pour gérer un large éventail de risques environnementaux, dont fait partie la variabilité du climat. Certains de ces outils ont été modifiés dernièrement pour prendre en considération également les risques que présente le changement climatique. Parallèlement, des activités ont été consacrées récemment à la mise au point d’outils plus spécialisés, spécifiquement conçus pour mettre en évidence les risques qui tiennent au changement climatique et faciliter l’adaptation. Le présent article a pour objet d’analyser ces derniers outils axés sur le dépistage des risques relevant du changement climatique. Il insiste sur la nécessité de prendre en considération les expériences des utilisateurs et des promoteurs, et de déterminer dans quelle mesure les outils répondent aux besoins des utilisateurs et s’il est possible de rationaliser l’arsenal existant. Il vise ainsi à apporter des éléments à la réalisation des objectifs d’alignement et d’harmonisation énoncés dans la Déclaration de Paris sur l’efficacité de l’aide de mars 2005 et le Programme d’action d’Accra de septembre 2008 qui lui a fait suite. Il ne s’agit pas nécessairement de rechercher une approche ou une méthode universelle, mais il est peut-être envisageable de fournir des pistes communes sur des questions précises, comme les systèmes de classification et les cadres de gestion des risques, et de mettre de l’ordre dans la terminologie. Dans l’optique d’améliorer l’utilisation des instruments de dépistage et d’évaluation, l’article recommande que les acteurs du développement intensifient l’appropriation par les pays partenaires des outils et processus qui s’y rapportent, comblent le fossé entre outils d’orientation des processus et outils de fourniture de données et d’informations, et collaborent pour élaborer des lignes directrices harmonisées. La présente analyse est limitée aux outils spécifiquement axés sur le changement climatique et l’adaptation, mais les travaux futurs devraient s’intéresser également aux outils existants d’analyse des risques qui ont cours dans la planification du développement et qui sont modifiés pour être appliqués à l’adaptation. |
| Keywords: | development, development co-operation, adaptation, Climate risk screening, mainstreaming, développement, intégration, coopération pour le développement, adaptation, dépistage du risque climatique |
| JEL: | O19 O21 O22 O29 Q01 Q54 |
| Date: | 2011–07–29 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:envaaa:36-en&r=env |
| By: | Daisuke Ichinose (Tohoku University of Community Service and Science); Masashi Yamamoto (University of Toyama); Yuichiro Yoshida (National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies) |
| Abstract: | Although there are many studies on the environmental Kuznets curve, very few of them address municipal solid waste cases, and there is still controversy concerning the validity of the waste Kuznets curve hypothesis. In this paper, we provide empirical evidence for the waste Kuznets curve hypothesis by applying spatial econometrics methods to municipal-level data in Japan. To our knowledge, this is the first study that finds valid evidence for the waste Kuznets curve hypothesis in the absolute decoupling manner. The successful result owes in part to our highly disaggregated data and also to the use of a spatial econometric model that takes into account the mimicking behavior among neighboring municipalities. The former indicates that distinguishing between household and business waste is the key to revealing the waste–income relationship, while the latter implies the importance of peer effects when municipal governments formulate waste-reduction policies. |
| Date: | 2011–08 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ngi:dpaper:11-07&r=env |
| By: | Temesgen Tadesse Deressa |
| Abstract: | This study argues that the adaptation measures farmers take to reduce the negative impacts of climate change do affect farmers’ efficiency of production. To support this argument, two steps were followed to understand how climatic factors especially long term average seasonal rainfall and temperature; and agro-ecological settings affect production efficiency in Ethiopian agriculture. In the first step, the stochastic frontier approach was employed to analyze the farm level technical efficiency. In the second step, the tobit regression model was adopted to analyze how climatic and agro-ecological settings affect efficiency scores derived from the first step. Results from the first step indicated that the surveyed farmers have an average technical efficiency of 0.50; with significant output elasticits of labor, draft power and tractor. Results from the tobit regression model showed that soil types, run-off, seasonal climatic conditions and agro-ecological settings affect technical efficiency in Ethiopian agriculture. |
| Keywords: | Technical efficiency, seasonal climate, agro-ecology, Ethiopia |
| JEL: | C53 Q25 Q54 |
| Date: | 2011 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:rza:wpaper:223&r=env |
| By: | Abebe Damte; Steven F. Koch |
| Abstract: | The heavy dependence and inefficient utilization of biomass resources have contributed to the depletion of forest resources in Ethiopia, while the use of traditional cooking technology, one source of inefficient biomass resource use, has been linked to indoor air pollution and poor health. In response, the government and other institutions have pushed for the adoption of new cooking technologies. This research examines the speed of adoption of Mirt and Lakech cook stoves — two examples of new cooking technologies — in urban Ethiopia. In terms of the duration analysis, adoption has been increasing over time; income and wealth are important contributors to adoption, and substitute technologies tend to hinder adoption. However, it was not possible to consider prices or perceptions related to either the technologies or biomass availability in the duration models, and, therefore, additional research is needed to inform policy further with respect to household technology adoption decisions. |
| Keywords: | immproved stoves Duration Adoption Urban Ethiopia |
| JEL: | D12 Q49 |
| Date: | 2011 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:rza:wpaper:229&r=env |
| By: | Grant Allan (Fraser of Allander Institute, University of Strathclyde); Michelle Gilmartin (Fraser of Allander Institute, University of Strathclyde) |
| Abstract: | One aspect of the case for policy support for renewable energy developments is the wider economic benefits that are expected to be generated. Within Scotland, as with other regions of the UK, there is a focus on encouraging domesticallyâ€based renewable technologies. In this paper, we use a regional computable general equilibrium framework to model the impact on the Scottish economy of expenditures relating to marine energy installations. The results illustrate the potential for (considerable) ‘legacy’ effects after expenditures cease. In identifying the specific sectoral expenditures with the largest impact on (lifetime) regional employment, this approach offers important policy guidance. |
| Keywords: | Renewable energy policy; regional economic impacts; computable general equilibrium modelling. |
| JEL: | C68 R11 R58 |
| Date: | 2011–08 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:str:wpaper:1129&r=env |
| By: | Yuki Yamamoto (Graduate School of Economics, Kobe University); Kenji Takeuchi (Graduate School of Economics, Kobe University) |
| Abstract: | This paper estimates the break-even price in Central Kalimantan province, Indonesia and evaluates the effectiveness of a REDD+ mechanism in this area. On the basis of data collected through a field survey, we found that the break-even price is $17.14 per ton of carbon or $4.68 per ton of carbon dioxide. The figure can be even lower when we take the peat thickness of the area into account. Our analysis shows that the current level of carbon price can provide adequate compensation for Indonesian farmers. |
| Date: | 2011–08 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:koe:wpaper:1111&r=env |
| By: | Adriana Lobo |
| Abstract: | The discussion presented below focuses on improving the decision-making process as the true challenge of mobility we face. It proposes a way of thinking about some of the key topics within each of the layers involved in decision-making at the strategic level, including attributes of the transport system and regulatory frameworks. |
| Date: | 2011–05 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:itfaab:2011/6-en&r=env |
| By: | Margarita Kalamova; Chris Kaminker; Nick Johnstone |
| Abstract: | This report looks specifically at the full array of public policies promoting investment in the renewable energy sector, and discusses their impact on plant entry into the market, with the support of case studies focusing on Germany, the U.S.A. and Australia. It examines differing risk/return expectations across stages of the investment continuum (from R&D through to mergers and acquisitions) and the financial structures that are employed at each stage. Although transparency, predictability and longevity of government programmes are necessary if investors are to initiate a project in clean energy, predictability should not be mistaken for permanence. In the case where policies target investment in physical capital, it is important to ‘sunset’ many of the policies discussed in this report. It is the nature of entrepreneurship that not all investments in new activities will pay off and not all promotion efforts will be successful. Against such a backdrop, public investment policy will also frequently meet with failure. Combining continuous assessment with policy predictability is a delicate balancing act. Clear criteria for policy evaluation are required, and ideally the criteria for success should depend on productivity.<BR>Ce rapport s’intéresse plus particulièrement à l’éventail complet des politiques publiques encourageant l’investissement dans le secteur des énergies renouvelables, et analyse leurs effets sur l’entrée de nouvelles entreprises sur le marché, en s’appuyant sur des études de cas réalisées en Allemagne, aux États-Unis et en Australie. Il étudie les différentes attentes en termes de risque/rendement au cours des différentes phases du processus d’investissement (de la R-D jusqu’aux fusions-acquisitions), et les structures financières correspondantes. Bien que la transparence, la prévisibilité et la longévité des programmes publics soient nécessaires pour que les investisseurs se lancent dans les énergies propres, il ne faut pas confondre prévisibilité et permanence. Quand les politiques publiques ciblent l’investissement dans le capital physique, de nombreuses mesures examinées dans ce rapport doivent être mises de côté. Les entrepreneurs savent pertinemment que la totalité des investissements consacrés à de nouvelles activités, y compris les efforts de promotion, ne sont pas toujours fructueux. Dans ce contexte, les politiques d’investissement public se soldent souvent par un échec. Concilier évaluation continue et prévisibilité des politiques est un exercice d’équilibre délicat, qui doit reposer sur des critères d’évaluation clairement définis, dont le principal devrait idéalement être celui de productivité. |
| Keywords: | venture capital, environmental policy, climate change, Investment Policy, Renewable Energy Sources, Asset Finance, Financial Risk, capital-risque, changement climatique, énergies renouvelables, politique de l’environnement, politiques d’investissement, financement d'actifs, risque en capital |
| JEL: | G24 G32 G38 Q42 Q54 Q58 |
| Date: | 2011–07–29 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:envaaa:37-en&r=env |
| By: | Mulenga, Brian P.; Richardson, Robert B.; Mapemba, Lawrence; Tembo, Gelson |
| Abstract: | Forest products play an important role in supporting rural livelihoods and food security in many developing countries. Pimentel et al. (1997) found that the integrity of forests is vital to world food security, mostly because of the dependence of the poor on forest resources. Studies of the role of forest products in household welfare in Zambia have found that such products are among the top sources of household income in some rural areas. This paper uses statistical analysis to examine the role of non-timber forest products NTFPs) in rural household welfare in Zambia, with two main objectives. First, using rural household survey data, we estimate the share of NTFP income to total household income with the aim of assessing the proportion and distribution of business activities related to NTFPs. Second, we estimate the determinants of rural household participation in the extraction and trade of NTFPs, with an interest in the characteristics of households that are more dependent on forest products for income. |
| Keywords: | Zambia, Non-Timber Forest Products, Rural Household Income, Agricultural and Food Policy, Consumer/Household Economics, Resource /Energy Economics and Policy, |
| Date: | 2011–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:midcwp:109887&r=env |
| By: | Kerri Brick; Martine Visser; Justine Burns |
| Abstract: | We estimate the risk attitudes of a large sample of small-scale fishers from various fishing communities along the west coast of South Africa, using subjects’ choices over lotteries with real monetary prizes. We find that participants are moderately risk averse and that risk attitudes vary with certain socio-demographic variables. In particular, females are found to be more risk averse than their male counterparts, while quota holders are more risk loving. Logistic regression analysis indicates that risk attitudes have implications for non-compliance with fisheries regulation. Specifically, greater risk aversion translates into a reduction in the odds of catching illegally. Furthermore, in the case of gender, female fishers and female fishers with fishing rights are more likely to comply with fisheries regulation. These findings have important implications for the characterisation of risk attitudes in fisheries policy applications and for the management of marine resources. |
| Keywords: | risk attitudes risk aversion experiments fishing rights compliance and South Africa |
| JEL: | D81 Q22 |
| Date: | 2011 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:rza:wpaper:227&r=env |
| By: | Andrés Sánchez Jabba |
| Abstract: | El principal objetivo de este trabajo consiste en realizar una evaluación del estado en que quedó el sur del Departamento del Atlántico, en particular el Municipio de Santa Lucía, después de la inundación que se produjo como consecuencia de la ruptura del Canal del Dique, el 30 de noviembre de 2010. Para ello se presentan cifras asociadas a las afectaciones que la inundación generó sobre la población, se hace énfasis en un análisis socioeconómico antes y después de la tragedia, aparte del seguimiento a indicadores relacionados con la ejecución de los recursos asignados para atender la emergencia invernal. La información recopilada permite concluir que la emergencia en esta subregión es persistente debido a la poca eficiencia y fallas institucionales asociadas a la estrategia de apoyo, lo que resta celeridad en la ejecución de la misma. Dicho resultado es particularmente evidente cuando se compara al Atlántico con el Departamento del Valle del Cauca. Finalmente, se recomienda la elaboración de normas técnicas y operativas, las cuales establezcan las metodologías y lineamientos específicos a seguir por los operadores designados para la estrategia de apoyo, antes de la ocurrencia de un desastre natural, o en su defecto, la designación de un ente dedicado exclusivamente a elaborar e implementar los protocolos de intervención requeridos para reparar o rehabilitar los distintos componentes afectados por un desastre natural. ABSTRACT: This paper evaluates the conditions of the southern part of the Department of Atlántico, Colombia, emphasizing on the municipality of Santa Lucía, after the massive flood that took place in this territory as a result of the breach of the levee canal, the 30th of November of 2010. For this purpose, I present a flood aftermath, an analysis the economic and social state of the population before and after the event, and a ground of indicators related to flood relief resource management and execution. The information gathered allows us to conclude that there is a persistent state of emergency in this territory, due to the reduced efficiency and institutional gaps associated to the relief strategy, which account for the observed delay. This result becomes increasingly evident when comparing the Department of Atlántico with its equivalent in terms of affected population, the Department of Valle del Cauca. Finally, we recommend the establishment of operative and technical standards, which fix the specific guidelines to be followed by operators coped to the relief strategy, before the occurrence of a natural disaster. This should be carried on in accordance with a major emphasis towards the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the affected infrastructure, allowing increases in social welfare and economic activity recovery. |
| Date: | 2011–08–11 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:col:000102:008894&r=env |
| By: | Joaquim Bento de Souza Ferreira Filho (Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz, Universidade de São Paulo); Mark Horridge (Centre of Policy Studies – COPS, Monash University) |
| Abstract: | In this paper we analyze the Indirect Land Use Change (ILUC) effects of ethanol production expansion in Brazil through the use of an inter-regional, bottom-up, dynamic general equilibrium model calibrated with the 2005 Brazilian I-O table. A new methodology to deal with ILUC effects is developed, using a transition matrix of land uses calibrated with Agricultural Censuses data. Agriculture and land use are modeled separately in each of 15 Brazilian regions with different agricultural mix. This regional detail captures a good deal of the differences in soil, climate and history that cause particular land to be used for particular purposes. Brazilian land area data distinguish three broad types of agricultural land use, Crop, Pasture, and Plantation Forestry. Between one year and the next the model allows land to move between those categories, or for Unused land to convert to one of these three, driven initially by the transition matrix, changing land supply for agriculture between years. The transition matrix shows Markov probabilities that a particular hectare of land used in one year for some use would be in an other use next period. These probabilities are modified endogenously in the model according to the average unit rentals of each land type in each region. A simulation with ethanol expansion scenario is performed for year 2020, in which land supply is allowed to increase only in states located on the agricultural frontier. Results show that the ILUC effects of ethanol expansion are of the order of 0.14 hectare of new land coming from previously unused land for each new hectare of sugar cane. This value is higher than values found in the Brazilian literature. ILUC effects for pastures are around 0.47. Finally, regional differences in sugarcane productivity are found to be important elements in ILUC effects of sugar cane expansion. |
| JEL: | C68 D58 E47 Q15 Q16 |
| Date: | 2011 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fup:wpaper:0114&r=env |