Environmental taxes and environmental charges 

Today, the polluter-pays principle is a cornerstone of EU environmental policy. At the same time, the EU favours market-based adjustment mechanisms.

Economic instruments

For more than 10 years, COWI has engaged in developing economic instruments that can enhance nature protection and the management of natural resources. We cover the entire spectrum of economic instruments, including charges, taxes and user fees, deposit and return systems, subsidy schemes and tradable permits.

Typical consulting services

COWI works for public authorities in Denmark and abroad on developing specific regulatory instruments and planning overall strategies promoting the use of economic instruments. Our track record is particularly strong in developing design options and making impact assessments of specific economic instruments.

Multidisciplinary approach

We draw on our long-standing experience in quantifying and assessing environmental impacts. Covering disciplines such as economics, engineering technology and law, COWI's broad resource base allows us to combine our profound knowledge of economic regulatory instruments with our skills and experience in the practical and technical implementation.