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Lessons Learned from Three Decades of Experience with Cap and Trade

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  • Richard Schmalensee
  • Robert N. Stavins
Abstract
This article presents an overview of the design and performance of seven major emissions trading programs that have been implemented over the past 30 years and identifies a number of important lessons for future applications of this important environmental policy instrument. A brief discussion of several other proposed or implemented emissions trading programs is also included.

Suggested Citation

  • Richard Schmalensee & Robert N. Stavins, 2017. "Lessons Learned from Three Decades of Experience with Cap and Trade," Review of Environmental Economics and Policy, Association of Environmental and Resource Economists, vol. 11(1), pages 59-79.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:renvpo:v:11:y:2017:i:1:p:59-79.
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • Q54 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Climate; Natural Disasters and their Management; Global Warming
    • Q58 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environmental Economics: Government Policy
    • Q40 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy - - - General
    • Q48 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy - - - Government Policy

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