The editor, R.N. Bhattacharya, provides a comprehensive overview of the discipline in the introductory section. He starts by discussing the key events that motivated the evolution of environmental economics as a sub-discipline, such as the Brundtland Commission report and the Earth Summit in Rio. He then provides an accessible introduction to core economic concepts that are critical for any environmental economist, including , externalities , and property rights .
Bhattacharya contextualizes these theories for regions facing the dual pressures of severe poverty and rapid industrialization. The text explores the delicate balance between accelerating Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth and preserving the natural resource base that sustains rural livelihoods. It highlights sustainable development not as a luxury, but as an absolute economic necessity for long-term national stability. Sourcing Academic Materials Responsibly rn bhattacharya environmental economics pdf %28%28FREE%29%29