Economic Progress and the Environment: One Developing Country's Policy Crisis

9780195087864

0195087860

This book provides a probing examination of problems unique to the world's poorest countries as they attempt to achieve environmentally sound economic development. Using Ecuador as an example, the authors present six case studies that focus on tropical deforestation, farmland degradation, inefficient water resource development, oil industry pollution in Amazonian rainforests, disturbance of coastal ecosystems, and management of the Galapagos Islands. The authors argue throughout the book that fundamental policy reforms are needed both to meet the challenge of mounting resource scarcity and to achieve sustainable economic progress. They also make the case that resource users' property rights must be strengthened, market forces given freer reign, and investment stepped up in human capital and in the rural economy's scientific and technological base. Finally, the book provides support for the notion that economic development and environmental conservation can be complementary provided that intelligent policies are implemented. The book will be useful to development and resource economists, resource management specialists, and conservation professionals. These cases also offer valuable insights for environmentally concerned general readers.