Externality and common-pool resources: The case of artesian aquifers

A-Tier
Journal: Journal of Environmental Economics and Management
Year: 2021
Volume: 109
Issue: C

Score contribution per author:

2.011 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

This study examines a specific class of common-pool resources whereby rivalry is not characterized by competition for the resource stock. Artesian aquifers are a typical example of such resources since the stock never depletes, even when part of the resource is extracted. We first propose a dynamic model to account for the relevant features of such aquifers such as the water pressure and well yield and characterize the corresponding dynamics. We then compare the social optimum with the private exploitation of an open-access aquifer. The comparison of these two equilibria highlights the existence of a new source of inefficiency. In the long run, this so-called pressure externality results in an additional number of wells for the same water consumption, thereby raising costs. Finally, we characterize a specific stock-dependent tax to neutralize the pressure externality.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:eee:jeeman:v:109:y:2021:i:c:s0095069621000681
Journal Field
Environment
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-29