This book argues that the economic appeal of using water charges to promote efficiency in usage and pollution control can be constrained by institutional and operational problems. Analysing the cases of France, Mexico and Brazil, the authors - respective local experts - illustrate that barriers are similar despite the existing differences among these economies. Each country evaluation within the book is analysed using the same framework, covering topics of relevance for the application of a policy instrument, namely: policy analysis phase: the policy setting in which the water economic instrument (EI) was introduced as a means of achieving policy goals instrument design phase: the theoretical, institutional and legal basis on which the EI was conceived instrument implementation phase: successes and failures of the EI application and its review process. Based on this comparative analysis, the authors gather substantial material on institutional and operational barriers constraining the full application of water charges. They also identify possible solutions already in place in these countries to remove or mitigate these barriers. The book concludes that although mistakes and solutions vary, valuable lessons can be learnt by those making decisions on water management and environmental pricing. Providing a concise and didactic background on the theoretical, conceptual and operational issues related to environmental pricing, this book will appeal to students, researchers, policy makers and practitioners with a specific interest in water management.

Macroeconomic policies have come under justifiable scrutiny because of their powerful and pervasive impacts throughout the economy. This book examines the sustainability of growth-oriented macroeconomic strategies, starting from early ideas linking macroeconomic policies, growth and sustainability. A comprehensive and up-to-date literature review and theoretical framework are presented, including both macroeconomic and microeconomic analyses of the linkages between the economy and the environment. Brazil and Chile are used as case studies to illuminate and analyse the impacts and effects of differing macroeconomic policies. A variety of analytical models are used to assess these two very different countries. One important conclusion reached is that the combination of growth and economic imperfections that lead to unsustainable outcomes is characterized by not only economic, but also environmental and >social problems. A variety of policy remedies are discussed to make development more sustainable by reshaping the structure of growth. Macroeconomists, environmental and development economists as well as policy analysts and project managers in the international development community will find much to engage them within this book. Development agencies, NGOs and graduate students interested in both the theory and applications of economic growth and sustainable development issues will also find the book of great interest.

In developing countries, where growth expectations are high, least-cost environmental policies are crucial since they can reduce the conflict between economic growth and the environment. In view of this, policymakers in these economies must be very aware of the relationship between economic and environmental issues to offer policy initiatives which can increase efficiency and improve equity.The authors provide a comprehensive analysis of topics varying from the general problems of growth and conservation to specific applications such as; pollution costs, environmental taxation, deforestation and climate change. This volume also offers policymakers a comprehensive view of the challenges they face, and the legacies they leave, in order to convert environmental policy making into an actual programme of welfare improvement. Environmental Economics and Policy Making in Developing Countries is couched in accessible language and is policy-oriented. It will therefore be of great interest to both policymakers and scholars in development economics, environmental studies and international agencies involved in these areas.

The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, represented an unparalleled opportunity for scientists, economists, planners, energy specialists, and other professionals from around the world to exchange ideas and information. Bringing together the views discussed at the corresponding International Symposium and Exhibit of Environmental Technologies (ECOTECH) -- an official event sponsored by the Rio de Janeiro State Secretariat of Industry, Commerce, and Science Technology of Brazil -- "Pricing the Planet" addresses our ecological future and explores alternatives to mainstream solutions.

The contributors emphasize the need for alternatives that are both economically viable and ecologically sound, and challenge the conventional assumptions and assertions found in the work of many economists. Most importantly, "Pricing the Planet" makes clear the crucial role that both national and international policy plays in successfully achieving balance between economic and ecological goals.

The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, represented an unparalleled opportunity for scientists, economists, planners, energy specialists, and other professionals from around the world to exchange ideas and information. Bringing together the views discussed at the corresponding International Symposium and Exhibit of Environmental Technologies (ECOTECH) -- an official event sponsored by the Rio de Janeiro State Secretariat of Industry, Commerce, and Science Technology of Brazil -- "Pricing the Planet" addresses our ecological future and explores alternatives to mainstream solutions.

The contributors emphasize the need for alternatives that are both economically viable and ecologically sound, and challenge the conventional assumptions and assertions found in the work of many economists. Most importantly, "Pricing the Planet" makes clear the crucial role that both national and international policy plays in successfully achieving balance between economic and ecological goals.