O problema da poluição sob o ângulo econômico

Abstract

Without aiming at being original, this paper presents to the usual reader, a few basic concepts in arder to assist in understanding the "modus faciendi" of market forces, when these are used as environmental protection tools. After puting forth the concept of marginal equilibrium, which in the context of comparative statics determines the optimal pollution quantity, comments are made on the difficulties of measuring social costs and, in sequence, the subjacent logic related to the available strategies to control pollution. The effect of charging for the use of water, inducing to the adequate disposal of residues is ilustrated by the supply, demand and marginal cost curves. The main conclusion is that environmental politics, help in avoiding unfairness so that ali must pay for the goods produced and consumed.