This course introduces students to the critical study of basic concepts of environmental economics, the dominant model of neoclassical theory and its related applications in the interpretation and evaluation of contemporary environmental problems. Students examine the development of alternative theoretical and methodological models regarding environmental planning, economic evaluation, and decision-making. Key topics that will be covered in this course include, among others, environmental externalities, economic tools for environmental policy, industrial ecology, benefit-cost analysis and environmental economic assessment, the diptych economic growth and environmental sustainability, and the theory of degrowth.

At the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Possess advanced knowledge of the contexts of interaction between the economy and the environment, relevant policy tools and regulatory approaches.
• Analyze and evaluate economic aspects of environmental management issues using relevant theoretical and empirical tools.
• Plan and evaluate policy actions for the protection of the environment, taking into account economic and social parameters.
• Effectively communicate their specific environmental knowledge to different audiences, translating aspects of economy-environment interaction into realistic design and policy recommendations.
• Synthesize information on the environmental footprint of the economic units at the various levels of the Space.

Upon completion of the course, trainees will be adequately equipped to undertake advisory and/or advocacy roles in public administration, local government, international organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations or private sector companies, contributing to the development, implementation and evaluation of economic policies and interventions that promote environmental sustainability.