This article describes the theoretical basis and real-life application of the two main types of instruments – regulatory and economic – used in environmental protection policy, and in particular, in climate change policy. It outlines the context and issues at stake in the choice of...

This chapter identifies the main price drivers of European Union Allowances (EUAs), valid for compliance under the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) created in 2005 to regulate CO2 emissions of more than 10,000 high carbon-intensive installations across Member States. Based on key...

This article provides a critical appraisal of the concept of sustainable development in light of climate change. As the latest climate change science indicates strong effects of anthropogenic activity on global warming, we review the pros and the cons of prioritizing development over...

To prepare for the first Kyoto Protocol commitment period (from 2008 to 2012) it decided to set up a European market for trading carbon dioxide by 2005. The volumes traded on this market and the solidity of its institutional foundation rapidly made it the epicentre of the global carbon market....

Global warming reveals that the current evolution of the world consumption is on an unsustainable path. Humankind's insatiable appetite for energy has sparked a new crisis. In a world where climate change has become a proven reality, there lies a deep uncertainty about the physical, economic and...

Adaptation has long been neglected in the debate and policies surrounding climate change. However, increasing awareness of climate change has led many stakeholders to look for the best way to limit its consequences and has resulted in a large number of initiatives related to adaptation,...

The Stern Review constitutes today the most complete and didactic synthesis of the economics of climate change. Despite appearances, it is not, however, a simple reference manual. Its most attractive feature is the author’s commitment to action in the face of climactic risk. The report’s...