The Application of Economic Techniques in Environmental Impact Assessment

This volume is based on a number of reports prepared over several years for a research project jointly sponsored by the United Nations Environment Programme, the Australian International Development Assistance Bureau and the Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council. Since release of the report of the World Commission on Environment and Development, the quest has intensified for methods that combine economic analysis and environmental assessments to achieve the goals of sustainable development. The main purpose of this volume is to explain how this may be accomplished. It combines scientific assessments, economic analysis and governmental procedures in an integrated approach to planning for economic development and environmental protection. The first four chapters explain economic concepts and techniques and their incorporation in EIA procedure. Six carefully selected case studies are presented, demonstrating practical applications in six different countries -- Indonesia, Thailand, Nepal, the Philippines, Hawaii and Australia. The volume will assist all participants involved in environmental impact assessment: public and private development proponents, environmental and conservation groups, public administrators and decision makers, and interested members of the public. The book is unique in that it combines economics, EIA techniques, procedures, and institutional aspects.