International Review of Environmental and Resource Economics > Vol 3 > Issue 3

Empirical Analysis of Sanctions for Environmental Offenses

Sandra Rousseau, CEDON, HUBrussel, Belgium, sandra.rousseau@econ.kuleuven.be
 
Suggested Citation
Sandra Rousseau (2009), "Empirical Analysis of Sanctions for Environmental Offenses", International Review of Environmental and Resource Economics: Vol. 3: No. 3, pp 161-194. http://dx.doi.org/10.1561/101.00000024

Publication Date: 17 Dec 2009
© 2009 S. Rousseau
 
Subjects
Environmental Economics
 
Keywords
K42 Illegal behavior and the enforcement of lawQ5 Environmental economics
EnforcementEnvironmental violationsMonetary penaltiesEmpirical analysis
 

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In this article:
1 Introduction 
2 General Background 
3 Identification of Determinants of Monetary Sanctions 
4 Empirical Evidence on the Level and Determinants of Monetary Penalties 
5 Conclusions and Suggestions for Future Research 
References 

Abstract

Sanctions are a crucial part of enforcing environmental regulations. We discuss the determinants and the levels of monetary penalties for environmental offenses found in practice. Three major categories of variables are distinguished: the circumstances of the offense, the characteristics of the offenders, and the indirect political and institutional effects. Some general trends emerge: fines increase with the harm caused by the offense and fines are higher for repeat offenders as well as for intentional offenses. Also, the studies discussed indicate that political and institutional factors matter. The empirical studies provide some initial insights into the objective functions of courts and agencies.

DOI:10.1561/101.00000024