Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Environmental Law Reporter
Publication Date
12-2008
ISSN
0046-2284
Page Number
10842
Keywords
energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, regulatory standards
Disciplines
Energy and Utilities Law | Law
Abstract
This Article considers the determinants of individual consumption decisions and how these decisions might better account for environmental impacts. In addition to exploiting the quite direct forms of regulatory incentives to alter behavior, such as taxes and regulatory standards, policymakers should take advantage of the potential of informational remedies that can assist people in making more efficient choices for themselves and more responsible decisions for the environment. This Article considers as a case study ways in which current information provisions for household energy utilization might be improved. In exploring the potential role of more environmentally responsible consumption decisions, I do not mean to imply that such policies alone are sufficient to fully address all climate change problems. However, to the extent that substantial benefits can be generated at little cost, consumption- oriented efforts should be included in a broad mix of climate change initiatives.
Recommended Citation
W. Kip Viscusi,
Using Economics to Fuel Responsible Energy Consumption Decisions, 38 Environmental Law Reporter. 10842
(2008)
Available at: https://scholarship.law.vanderbilt.edu/faculty-publications/1577