Environmental Policy: Australian Practice in the Context of Theory offers a discussion of the processes and practices of environmental policy. Grounded in theory, it shows how policy is developed on a practical level within an Australian context. It covers:
- the growing involvement of private businesses and community organisations in environmental policy development
- the types of policy which exist in Australia and overseas, including key policy examples from Federal, State and local governments, and businesses
- the factors that influence the focus and operation of policy, such as the effects of globalisation, politics and the media
- the approaches to implementation which are available including, legal tools, pollution taxes, subsidies, performance bonds and educational programs.
This is an invaluable book for students who need to know how environmental policy is developed. It is also a practical reference book for those who are involved in policy-making.
Thomas [describes] the basic theory of environmental policy reasonably well, with plenty of charts and diagrams, drawn from both decision theory and political theory. This is fairly standard material. Yet it is reasonably comprehensive and thorough in its context and presentation.
The relations between the States and the Commonwealth are fairly well charted, though inevitably he concentrates on his home State of Victoria, and on topics close to his heart, namely land-use, environmental appraisal and risk assessment. For the most part, all of his coverage is reliable, fully referenced in the legal niceties and well constructed. For a workman-like job of Australian environmental policy, this is a book that should be sourced first.
Geographical Research, September 2007, Vol 45 No 3
This book on environmental policy is an important book particularly for teachers of VCE Geography Unit 3 and 4…[and] a starting point for people wanting to gain a background in environmental policy which brings together contributions from a range of sources…
Geoffrey Paterson, Interaction, Vol 36 No 3, Sept 2008
Environmental Policy is a comprehensive and well researched text book. The book works through the various areas of policy making, agenda setting, formulation, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and review. It provides a good balance between theory and practical examples. It is aimed at university level environmental students, but could be equally useful to those working in the area of environmental policy development and implementation. Thomas has managed to make the almost 500 page book both interesting and engaging through the use of relevant and practical examples from all areas of Australian environmental policy.
The book is specifically focused on the Australian situation which makes it very relevant and prctical, however, it also covers international and global issues. The book is well structured and a comprehensive table of contents allows specific information to be easily located.
…a well researched, comprehensive text book that contains useful and relevant information for environmental policy development in the Australian context.
Belinda Ainley, Vol 23(2007), Australian Journal of Environmental Education
