Economics of Climate Change: Foundations for Planning

The global economy is increasingly affected by environmental risks. Understanding the economic forces driving climate change and its consequences is essential for modern planning and policy development. By the end of this course, you will possess a foundational grasp of environmental economic theory and be able to critically analyze the costs of inaction versus the benefits of various climate adaptation and mitigation policies. What you'll learn: * Understand core concepts in environmental economics, including externalities, public goods, and valuation techniques. * Analyze the economic costs associated with physical climate risks and transition risks across different sectors. * Evaluate fundamental climate policy instruments, such as carbon pricing, carbon taxes, and regulatory standards. * Apply cost-benefit analysis frameworks to compare adaptation and mitigation strategies effectively. * Practice assessing how discount rates and intergenerational equity factor into long-term climate planning decisions. The course begins by establishing key terminology and foundational economic models before progressing to practical applications in policy analysis and risk assessment through guided written exercises. This course is designed for absolute beginners in economics, policy, or environmental studies. No prior knowledge of economics or climate science is required to begin. Start reading today and build your expertise in climate change economics.