Neoliberal Environments

by Nikolas Heynen, James McCarthy (Editor), Scott Prudham (Editor)

This volume explores the nexus between nature, markets, deregulation and valuation, using theoretically sharp and empirically rich real-world case studies and analyses of actually existing policy from around the world and across a range of resources. In short, it answers the does neoliberalizing nature work and what work does it do? More specifically, this volume provides answers to a series of urgent questions about the effects of neoliberal policies on environmental governance and quality. What are the implications of privatizing public water utilities in terms of equity in service provision, resource conservation and water quality? Do free trade agreements erode the sovereignty of nations and citizens to regulate environmental pollution, and is this power being transferred to corporations? What does the evidence show about the relationship between that marketization and privatization of nature and conservation objectives? Neoliberal Environments productively engages with all of these questions and more. At the same time, the diverse case studies collectively and decisively challenge the orthodoxies of neoliberal reforms, documenting that the results of such reforms have fallen far short of their ambitions.

310 pages, Paperback

First published December 16, 2005

Reviews

[Ce · Rating 4 out of 5]

I could say it is a great compilation in academic terms, but the reality each chapter reflects on how neoliberalism is just destroying more the environment makes me put the book down and think if really just starting from an academic point we can make a difference. Good mix although some chapters feel very summarized.

[Mike · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's an OK book. Most of the chapters are just shorter versions of articles published elsewhere and lose a lot in translation. There are also too many chapters. Nonetheless good overview of the topic.