ECC3640 - Economics of climate change - 2019

Climate change is the most significant environmental challenge the world is facing today. It has major implications for the global and domestic economies, including Australia's. This unit conveys the multifaceted nature of the economic problem that climate change represents. Uncertainty and catastrophic risk as well as inter- and intra-generational equity concerns are crucial to the evaluation of climate change impacts and to achieving international action. Options to achieve optimal stabilisation targets and pathways using economic principles and policy are contrasted. The implications of climate change mitigation for key industry sectors are also assessed.

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. provide students with an understanding of the possible impacts of climate change on economies
2. analyse the economic costs of climate change, and how industries can adapt to climate change at minimum cost
3. provide students with an understanding of how economic instruments such as carbon taxes and emissions trading schemes can mitigate climate change
4. analyse how key industries such as electricity and transport can respond to climate change policies and lessen emissions.

Within semester assessment: 50% + Examination: 50%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. The unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information