Environmental Economics*

*Fundamental course required to complete the 12-course Executive Education Program

Instructor: Urvashi Kaul
Course number: ENVB 0353 N

Fulfills requirement: Fundamental (F)
Day: Tuesday
Dates: September 3, 10, 17, 24, October 1 (Module 1, 5 sessions)
Time: 6:10 – 8:10 PM

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to environmental economics through a discussion of the basic principles of microeconomics as they apply to environmental issues and analysis of case studies that illustrate how economics can guide conservation practice and policy. Class discussions also includes a review of solutions to market failures, such as taxes and subsidies, fees and quotas, and tradable emissions permits (e.g., carbon markets).

About the Instructor

Urvashi Kaul is the Education Manager for RFK Compass. She works with the investment community to encourage the use of sustainability as an integral part of their strategies. Prior to joining RFK Compass in 2012, Ms. Kaul was an Assistant Director for Economic Research and Analysis at the New York City Economic Development Corporation, where she evaluated economic and fiscal impacts of development projects and events, and analyzed policies and proposals related to New York City’s economic development. She served as the standing advisor for the New York City Labor Market Information Service at the Center for Urban Research, City University of New York. Before that, she was an Economist for Fiscal and Budget Studies at the Office of the New York City Comptroller. Ms. Kaul is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University, where she teaches graduate level courses in Economics and Finance. She serves as the chair of the board of directors of Adhikaar, a New York based not-for-profit organization promoting social justice and human rights. She also serves as a member, board of directors of Asia Initiatives. A native of Kashmir, India, her education includes a MPA from Columbia University with a concentration in international finance and economic development, a master’s degree from the Delhi School of Economics at the University of Delhi, and an undergraduate degree from Miranda House College at the University of Delhi.