Problem 1
Can you identify some of the causes of climate change? Do you think global warming is having any impact on your daily life?
Problem 2
To date there remains some uncertainty regarding the impacts that policies to slow down the rate of GHG emissions may have on economic development especially in lower income countries. Why is better information on these impacts critical to the design of policies and programs to address GHG emissions? How would you respond to those who suggest that we need to postpone taking any action to address GHG emissions until we "know all the facts"?
Problem 3
How does an economist characterize the difference between private and social costs of production? In thinking about the air and water as environmental resources that humans value, how would you define the private and social costs associated with a manufacturing firm that is dumping waste products into the river, as was typical for textile firms in the 1900 s in New England? Can you suggest a more recent example where the social costs of production exceed the private costs? What regulations have local and state governments imposed to address these situations?
Problem 4
Are there examples where you are negatively impacted by others' behavior? In these examples, what actions could you take to reduce the adverse impacts you are experiencing? Would these be more of a command-and-control (or ask- andhope) type of request, or a request that compensates you for your "suffering"?
Problem 5
Suppose you are a legislator voting on a series of options to address greenhouse gas emissions. What would be some of the things to consider when choosing one policy over another?
Problem 6
How would you change or modify your driving and transportation choices if (1) the price of gasoline increased by 30 percent? (2) the price of gasoline doubled? (3) you were offered a \$2000 rebate towards an electric car? (a mileage tax was imposed on your personal vehicle each year? (4) public transportation on a bus or train was free? Do you think incentives of this sort will work in the long-run? Why or why not?
