Applied Ecological Economics - ENV00029I

«Back to module search

  • Department: Environment and Geography
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: I
  • Academic year of delivery: 2025-26

Module summary

This module offers students the opportunity to apply quantitative methods for the economic analysis of major environmental problems.

Related modules

Pre-requisite modules

Co-requisite modules

  • None

Prohibited combinations

  • None

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2025-26

Module aims

The module provides students with a hands-on approach to apply the principles of economic thinking in the analysis of some of today’s major environmental problems. More specifically, students will be introduced to econometrics and other quantitative techniques widely used in economic analysis. In doing so, they will learn the characteristics of such techniques and their particular uses. In this manner, the module helps students to develop important analytical skills required for their Year 3 dissertation. The module consists of a mix of lectures, seminars, and computer practicals. The latter offer students the opportunity to use specialised statistical software used in real-world analysis. Seminars will provide a space to discuss possible feasible solutions to the major sustainability problems analysed in class.

Module learning outcomes

After completing the module, successful students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics and use of a range of econometric and quantitative techniques.

  • Use quantitative analysis to examine relationships between variables of interest.

  • Apply economic concepts to the analysis, appraisal, and valuation of a range of environmental problems and policies.

  • Critically assess the strengths and limitations of different economic analytical tools.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Module feedback

Formative feedback will be delivered orally or in written form. Feedback on summative assessments will follow DEG guidelines with scripts being annotated and a feedback form provided.

Indicative reading

  • Balnaves, M., & Caputi, P. (2001) Introduction to quantitative research methods, London: SAGE Publications, Ltd, doi:10.4135/9781849209380

  • Gujarati, D., & Porter, D. C. (2009) Basic econometrics (5th ed.). Boston; London: McGraw-Hill Education, chapters 1 to 7, and 15.

  • Champ, P.A. et al. (2017) A Primer on Nonmarket Valuation Second Edition. http://link.springer.com/10.1007/978-94-007-7104-8. Chapter 1 Valuing Environmental Goods and Services: An Economic Perspective