Abstract

We analyze the problem of introducing a new substitute for a polluting process. The environmental effects of this substitute are uncertain but will be resolved over time. In a two-period model where two stock pollutants are substitutes in the abatement cost function, we show that the consequences of uncertainty depend critically on the degree of substitutability. As opposed to independent pollutants, for potentially large damages a further increased level of uncertainty leads to a decrease in risky emissions at the expense of emitting more of the old pollutant with known environmental effects. We illustrate how the effects of revealed uncertainty on the emission levels are affected by increasing substitutability.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.