Synopsis
The energy-environment connection has been the subject of many studies over the years, as has the interrelation between energy and development. This book is the first to look at the links between all three.Unlike most studies, which rely on GNP as the sole indicator of development (and thus fail to take account of inequalities within a given country), Jose Goldemberg uses an approach which disaggregates national populations by income and by the environmental effects of different income groups - an approach which is particularly relevant to developing countries, where income disparities are often wider. By looking in detail at how different income groups consume energy (and what type of energy), he identifies the differences between local, regional and global environmental impacts, and can thus ascertain who is responsible for them. The book begins with an overview of the concepts of energy, and what economists generally mean by 'development'. It then gives a factual description of current energy-related problems of environmental degradation, looking at their causes and technical solutions and the present energy trends. Finally, it discusses both general and specific policies to promote sustainable development in the area of energy. In a technical, yet accessible, style, and with useful graphs, figures and text boxes throughout, "Energy, Environment and Development" is aimed at students on a range of courses in geography, environmental and development issues, and will also appeal to those concerned with energy and environment, but who are not energy specialists.