Explain the concept of a positive externality in environmental economics.

Economics Environmental Externalities Questions



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Explain the concept of a positive externality in environmental economics.

A positive externality in environmental economics refers to a situation where the actions of a producer or consumer result in benefits to third parties or society as a whole, without these benefits being reflected in the market price. In other words, it is a spillover effect that generates positive outcomes for individuals or the environment beyond what is directly accounted for in the market transaction. For example, when a company invests in renewable energy sources, it not only reduces its own carbon emissions but also contributes to the overall reduction of pollution and climate change, benefiting society as a whole.