Ecological Economics and Finance: An Introduction to Sustainable Monetary and Financial Systems

This textbook, written by fifteen economists from the SDSN France network, provides an accessible introduction to ecological economics and finance. It examines the development of monetary and financial systems to demonstrate how they limit sustainability and hinder environmental goals. By offering a pluralist perspective, with ideas from both macro and microeconomics, the chapters offer a framework for a new kind of economics that is built around sustainability. Empirical case studies are utilized to give insight into the failure of traditional financial systems and to highlight the actions required to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. Introductory boxes, learning objectives, real-world examples, and revision questions are included to aid learning and self-assessment.

This textbook, based on the book Ecological Money and Finance (2023), shows how economics can combat ecological challenges and have a positive impact on efforts to tackle climate change. It will be relevant to students interested in environmental economics and sustainable finance.

Thomas Lagoarde-Ségot is Professor of International Economics and Finance at KEDGE Business School, France. In 2023, he received the Financial Times Responsible Business Education Award for his teaching and research.