[PEN-L:6691] Re: jobs in environmental econ

["Max B. Sawicky" <maxsaw@xxxxxxxxx>]

DOUG ORR wrote:

> I would agree that many enviro organizations out there are is desparate need
> of economic expertise, but they need something other than someone trained in
> pure NCDS at whatever level.  If the person has a good understanding of the
> critique of NCDS, they will be very useful.  Unfortunately, most of these

Presumably if they are interested in working for an activist group
they understand NCDS well enough to appreciate its limitations.

> orgs don't pay well if at all.  If your student is serious about making a
> living in environ. econ., they will need at least an MA.  Lots of consulting
> firms and govt agencies hire people at that level.

There is a spectrum of enviro groups, some of which are pretty
well financed (e.g., World Resources Institute).  Of course,
the richer the organization, the more politically centrist
it is likely to be.  I do think there are lots of places here,
but as you say the BA won't get the student very far.  There
is such a paucity of enviro economists, however, that it is
quite possible for a radical with good academic credentials
to get a decent job with an unradical organization.  A vacuum
exists by virtue of the fact that mainstream econ grad depts
indoctrinate their young to look down their nose at any sort
of advocacy organization.

All I can say is 'Come on down!'  We need all the help we
can get.

MS

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