Independent economic analysis and policy advice for governments, international organisations, research institutions and policy partners.
Sustainable Economics, founded by Joel Marsden, brings together economic research, policy analysis and international development experience to help organisations navigate the economic implications of sustainability and economic transformation.
Understanding the connections
Economic, environmental and social systems are increasingly interconnected. However, the implications are not always straightforward. For example, changes in trade rules may create opportunities for some businesses and industry sectors, while increasing costs and risks for others. Similarly, climate and circular economy strategies can create new jobs and skills needs, while also disrupting existing activities.
I analyse these relationships to help partners assess impacts, navigate trade-offs and develop practical responses.
My work spans:
- Trade and sustainable development: assessing how changing trade and environmental rules affect economies, businesses and development, and supporting governments and partners in shaping and responding to these changes.
- Climate, circular economy and jobs: examining how sustainability strategies translate into employment and labour-market impacts. Conversely, I explore how skills, training and decent work can support the transition to a more sustainable economy.
- Investment and development impacts: assessing the climate, environmental and employment dimensions of policies, programmes and investments.
Research grounded in practice
I combine quantitative economic analysis with qualitative evidence, including case studies, stakeholder perspectives and other forms of applied research. This helps organisations understand not just what the data shows, but how policies and economic changes are experienced and implemented in practice.
With over 15 years of experience as an economist, researcher and policy analyst, I bring rigorous analysis together with an understanding of the institutional, political and practical contexts in which policy operates.
Working together
I work directly with public institutions and development organisations. I also collaborate with research organisations and consultancies as part of wider project teams and consortia.
For example, I can contribute across the project cycle, from research design and evidence gathering through to economic analysis, stakeholder engagement, evaluation and communication of findings.
Get in touch to discuss how I could contribute to your project or team.
Sustainable Economics is the name of my Dutch-registered freelance business (ZZP), established in March 2023. It is not a separate legal entity, and all work is undertaken personally by me, Joel Marsden.