Economista ambiental

Environmental economist is one of the many specialized areas within the field of economics that focuses on the relationship between environmental issues and economic activity. Environmental economists are principally concerned with the effects of economic activity on the environment, and vice versa. Some of the most pressing questions that they work to answer include how economic activity contributes to environmental degradation, the economic costs associated with environmental degradation, and the economic viability of investing in environmental protection. 

Sub-specialties within environmental economics

Given the broad and complex nature of environmental economics, there are many sub-fields within it, some of the most common of which are outlined below:

• Natural resource economics, which applies economic principles to inform decision-making for managing natural resources, such as water, minerals, and forests.
• Environmental policy analysis, which uses economic analysis to design and evaluate environmental policies. 
• Cost-benefit analysis, which is a technique for assessing the economic benefits and costs of projects or regulations.
• Non-market valuation, which is a set of techniques for estimating the economic value of environmental goods and services that are not traded in markets.

Due to the multitude of subspecialties under the field of environmental economics, environmental economists often have a strong foundation in both economics and a natural science such as ecology, environmental science, or biology.

Day-to-day responsibilities of an environmental economist

The day-to-day responsibilities of an environmental economist will vary depending on their sub-specialty and place of employment.  Some common responsibilities include:

• Conducting research on the economic impacts of environmental issues.
• Developing and evaluating environmental policies.
• Providing expert testimony on environmental issues.
• Teaching environmental economics courses.
• Consulting with businesses and governments on environmental issues.

Challenges facing environmental economists

One of the biggest challenges facing environmental economists is the difficulty in measuring the economic value of environmental goods and services. Many of these goods and services are not traded in markets, so it can be difficult to determine their economic value. As a result, environmental economists often rely on non-market valuation techniques, these techniques can be complex and controversial.

Another challenge facing environmental economists is the difficulty in predicting the long-term effects of environmental policies. Environmental issues are often complex and interconnected, making it difficult to predict how a policy will affect the environment and the economy in the long run.

Despite these challenges, environmental economics is a growing field. As the world faces increasingly complex environmental issues, the need for environmental economists who can provide sound economic analysis will only grow.

Skills and qualifications for environmental economists

Environmental economists typically have a master's or doctoral degree in economics, environmental economics, or a related field. They also typically have a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and computer science, proficiency in the use of statistical software and data visualization tools is essential for conducting research and analyzing data.

In addition to their technical skills, environmental economists also need strong communication and interpersonal skills. They must be able to clearly and effectively communicate their findings to a variety of audiences, including policymakers, business leaders, and the general public.

How to become an environmental economist

There are many paths to a career as an environmental economist depending on one's prior background, some of the most common steps include:

1. Earning a bachelor's degree in economics, environmental economics, or a related field.
2. Pursuing a master's or doctoral degree in economics, environmental economics, or a related field.
3. Gaining experience through internships, research projects, or work experience in the field.
4. Networking with environmental economists and other professionals in the field.

Environmental economics is a rewarding career that offers the opportunity to make a real difference in the world. If you are interested in a career that combines your passion for the environment with your analytical skills, then environmental economics may be the right field for you.

Online courses for environmental economics

Online courses can be a great way to learn about environmental economics. Many of the skills and knowledge that are required for a career in environmental economics can be learned through online courses, such as:

• Microeconomics
• Macroeconomics
• Econometrics
• Environmental economics
• Natural resource economics
• Environmental policy analysis
• Cost-benefit analysis
• Non-market valuation

Online courses can be a great way to supplement your formal education or to learn about environmental economics on your own. They can also be a helpful way to prepare for a career in environmental economics.

However, it is important to note that online courses alone are not enough to prepare you for a career in environmental economics. You will also need to gain experience through internships, research projects, or work experience in the field. Networking with environmental economists and other professionals in the field is also important.