Global Warming - Environmental Protection Agency

Review the general background information outlined in the four sequential topic areas ("climate," "emissions," "impacts," and "actions") on global warming.

• Explain why no nation is interested in taking the first and unilateral step of cleaning up the air (Hint: consider public goods).
• Why are governments pressured to solve the global warming problem?
• Visit the Econergy International Corporation (EIC). Click on "Consulting Services." Explain how a market-based solution to controlling greenhouse gas emissions is possible.
  

U.S. Policy and Global Warming

Read Dale W. Jorgenson's testimony before the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works on "The Economics of Climate Change."
a. Why is it desirable that the proposed policy be implemented through international treaties?
b. Is there an incentive for countries, particularly smaller, less developed economies, to be "free riders?"
c. What is the advantage of using internationally tradeable permits rather than fixed standards?