Over the last decade, economists have increasingly recognized the role of meta-analysis and value transfer in synthesizing knowledge and efficiently exploiting the existing pool of knowledge. Comparative Environmental Economic Assessment explores the potential significance of using these techniques, particularly in environmental economics.Both meta-analysis and value transfer constitute major research tools which efficiently use knowledge previously acquired from other studies. The book focuses on the potential role and usefulness of these tools in environmental economic research, and goes on to address their validity, relevance and applicability. A future agenda for research is also illustrated. Combining methodological analysis with a variety of case studies - on aircraft noise, environmental policy in European space and urban energy policy, amongst others - the contributors present an illuminating examination of the utilization of meta-analysis and value transfer. The insightful techniques highlighted in this book will prove invaluable in the field of environmental economics. Policymakers in various areas including the environment and planning will also find this state-of-the-art study interesting and informative.

This innovative book explores the adoption of energy-saving technologies and their impact on energy efficiency improvements. It contains a mix of theoretical and empirical contributions, and combines and compares economic and physical indicators to monitor and analyze trends in energy efficiency. The authors pay considerable attention to empirical research on the determinants of energy-saving investment including uncertainty, energy-price volatility and subsidies. They also discuss the role of energy modeling in policy design and the potential effect of energy policies on technology diffusion in energy-extensive sectors. Written from a multi-disciplinary perspective, this book will appeal to academics and graduates in the areas of energy-saving technologies, energy economics and natural resource economics as well as policy makers - particularly those in energy policy. Contributors: K. Blok, H.L.F. de Groot, R.J.G.M. Florax, M. Harmelink, G.W. Hunter, S. Joosen, M.J. Koetse, P. Mulder, M.K. Patel, A. Ramirez, W.J.H. van Groenendaal, D.P. van Soest, H.R.J. Vollebergh