International trade and the environment: theory and policy issues (original) (raw)

The interplay between international trade and the environment is complex, with significant impacts depending on various factors. While trade can lead to negative environmental outcomes in the absence of robust policies, it can also enhance resource efficiency and environmental management. This paper discusses the necessity of direct environmental policies over trade-restricting measures, the importance of harmonizing environmental principles rather than standards, and the effects of agricultural trade liberalization, highlighting potential regional disparities in production effects. Policy recommendations emphasize cooperation through incentives rather than punitive measures.