This book provides a critical perspective on several interconnected themes that relate to the implementation of both domestic and international environmental standards. What are the direct and indirect costs and benefits of these standards? What is the political economy structure that governs their implementation? Do environmental standards affect individuals and economic sectors in different ways? How do environmental standards interact with trade patterns in an ever-globalised world?

Understanding the multidimensional effects of environmental standards is crucial for the establishment of effective environmental and development policies. The book presents our current state of knowledge for the issues presented, while also drawing policy insights from a WTO project (on phytosanitary standards) the authors undertook in four Sub-Sahara African countries (Botswana, Cameroon, Kenya and Mozambique).

Discusses the economics and policy aspects of environmental standards in a non-technical manner Brings interdisciplinary insights from economics, political science, business studies and international development Offers targeted policy advice and recommendations separately for governments, NGOs and local firms First book on environmental standards to offer a coherent and non-technical treatment of the topic

Autorentext

Elissaios Papyrakis is an Associate Professor in Economics at the International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) of the Erasmus University Rotterdam in the Netherlands. His work involves both theoretical and empirical analysis in development and environmental economics, with a particular emphasis on the economics of mineral extraction, climate change and environmental management.
Luca Tasciotti is a Senior Lecturer in Economics at the University of Greenwich, London, and a member of the The Institute for Political Economy, Governance, Finance and Accountability. He has previously worked for the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of United Nations (Rome), for the International Institute of Social Studies (The Hague) and for the School of Oriental and African Studies (London). He is a neo-classical economist by training with an open view on the heterodox theories. He is a development applied economist, with a research interest in agriculture, nutrition, demography and health and with an expertise in sub-Saharan countries.

Inhalt

1. Introduction.- 2. The Political Economy of Environmental Standards.- 3. The Costs of Environmental Standards.- 4. The Benefits of Environmental Standards.- 5. Environmental Standards and Justice.- 6. Environmental Standards and Trade.- 7. Conclusion.