Abstract
The value of the natural environment is invariably excluded from the costing of finite energy resources due to difficulties associated with noncommensurability. This paper illustrates a method of valuation for strip mining coal in a virgin natural environment. The method is based on the principles of irreversibility and opportunity costs. Although the values derived represent a bottom threshold, their inclusion would prompt an improvement in the allocation of scarce resources for the development of energy technologies.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 527-538 |
| Number of pages | 12 |
| Journal | International Journal of Energy Research |
| Volume | 12 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1988 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Irreversibility
- Natural environment
- Opportunity cost
- Strip mining