The course consists of two parts. First, it provides an introduction to key concepts, theories and conceptual frameworks on the economics of sustainability. Examples include: definition of sustainability (environmental, social, economic), 'doughnut economics' and 'Limits to growth', green taxes, cap-and-trade, environmental valuation, and green nudging. Second, students will apply these to a specific case (problem or policy related to sustainability). Examples include Norwegian policy issues (e.g., subsidies of electric vehicles, rush-hour taxes, petroleum licences, technology development), or international issues (e.g., carbon trading).

The first part is will be in the form of lectures, student presentations and group discussions. The second part will be group work. The groups will do independent search and compilation of information on the chosen topic and prepare a presentation.

Each group will be assigned a faculty member as a mentor for their case study. 

Selected journal articles and book chapters.

Mandatory participation in the group work. Mandatory participation in 2/3 of the lectures. 

A group presentation makes up 100% of the final grade. Pass/fail.

150 hours

Three hours per week for lectures (part 1) and group work (part 2). One full day for presentation of cases at the end of the course.

The course is for master students in Economics and Business Administration. Students from other study programs at NMBU, who have good background in Economics, may apply for admission, by sending an e-mail to study coordinator at the School of Economics and Business.

External examiner will control the quality of syllabus and criteria for the examination.