Argues that overexploitation of renewable biological resources to the point of extinction is possible under private (commercial) management. Public surveillance is necessary to prevent severe depletion of resources. An economic theory of a biological resource is developed, using the blue whale population as an example. (JR)

While all seem to agree that recycling will alleviate solid waste problems and energy and mineral shortages, recycling is, at present, bogged down by the thin market for recycled materials, the recessionary business picture, the vertical integration of many companies, unfavorable tax laws, and high rail freight rates. (BT)

The two major branches of economics, micro and macro, are developing conflicting theories on pollution and environmental quality which rest upon very different assumptions concerning the use of natural resources in our economic system. Consequently, economists have focused upon the symptoms of the pollution problem rather than its causes. (BT)

Describes the strength in research and development and the technological leadership as factors dominating "postindustrial" country economy. Indicates that the United States future welfare will depend heavily upon technology, rather than an energy glut. (CC)

Ecological economics addresses the dangers of excluding nature from economic decisions. Discusses how traditional economic frameworks separate economic interests from environmental interests. Introduces some alternative ideas wherein environmental interests are incorporated into economic planning. (MCO)

In the introduction to this booklet, one of a series intended to apply economic principles to major social and political issues of the day, it is pointed out that despite the predictions of "doom merchants," the world did not run out of oil in the 1970's, and in fact, is experiencing an oil glut in the 1980's. It is then argued that…

Traces the problems of water overuse to the fact that many farmers are allowed to use water at a fraction of its real cost. Maintains that government subsidies promote misuse and abuse of this resource. Proposes two solutions: environmentally friendly water prices and environmentally friendly water ownership. (MJP)

Describes the academic program in natural resources and environmental economics at the University of Wyoming. Differentiates natural resources economics from general economics. Discusses the emphasis of the program on public policy issues. (TW)

The booklet outlines and presents examples of basic economics concepts. Objectives are to help elementary and secondary teachers introduce economic concepts in the classroom and to help teachers grasp some of the fundamentals of economics. The document is divided into seven sections. Each section presents concepts, offers three supporting…

The booklet presents concepts, generalizations, background information, and learning activities for use in elementary and secondary school programs on energy, ecology, and economic issues. Major objectives of the resource guide are to help students understand problems related to the energy situation and to promote constructive changes in attitude…

The second of a series of annual reports designed to provide a global assessment of progress toward a sustainable society, this publication monitors changes in the global resource base (land, water, energy, and biological support systems), focusing particularly on how these changes affect the economy. Included in the report are news on innovative…

The first of a series of annual reports for policy makers, this publication focuses on evaluating changes in the interplay between the world's changing resource base and the economic system. Following an overview, content is divided into 10 additional chapters covering population stabilization, the world's dependence on oil, soil conservation,…