Introduction to the Economics of Water Resources: An International Perspective

(Paperback)

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Written in a clear and accessible style, this introductory textbook explores the economics of water supply and consumption and shows how water policy can be adapted to achieve the goal of sustainable development. Informed by an evolutionary political economy perspective, the book draws on a substantial group of international case studies to illustrate the relevance of theory to real life. Ranging widely, the author considers the conservation of rivers, lakes, wetlands, estuaries and coastal waters; land drainage; flood control and coastal defense; dam projects; the costs of freshwater supply; water use by households, agriculture, and other sectors; and wastewater treatment and disposal. Introducing a topic of crucial importance to a wide range of disciplines, this concise yet comprehensive text will be invaluable for students in environmental studies, geography, and economics.

Reviews

Merrett does an adequent job of presenting the economic theory of marginal analysis in the nontechnical fashion, and his explanation of the financial accounting for the water consumption is equally nontechnical and understandable. -- B. J. Peterson, Manchester College * Choice Reviews *
The author is clear, concise, and refreshingly critical of many conventional modes of neoclassical economic analysis . . .a thought provoking view of the practicalities of water resources economics. The case studies are varied and detailed, and are valuable sources of information in their own right. -- Daniel Bedford in The Professional Geographer
Provides an introduction to hydroeconomics for students and professionals in economics, engineering, environmental science, environmental studies, geography, and hydrology. Requires no prior knowledge of either economics or hydrology. * Journal of Economic Literature *
With this book, Merrett has created the text for the 'Water Resources 101' course. . . . The author provides a solid theoretical and empirical foundation for water usage planning. He does an adequate job of presenting the economic theory of marginal analysis in a nontechnical fashion, and his explanation of financial accounting for water consumption is equally nontechnical and understandable. * Choice Reviews *

Author Bio

Stephen Merrett, formerly of the Bartlett School of Planning at University College London, is a researcher and consultant in water resources and the economics of the environment.