Georgia Institute of Technology | Ivan Allen CollegeSchool of Public Policy






Douglas Noonan
Associate Professor

Office: DM Smith:
Ground Floor 6
Email:  click to email
Phone: (404) 385-4257
Fax:  (404) 385-0504

Ph.D., University of Chicago, Public Policy (Harris School of Public Policy Studies)
B.A., University of Washington, International Studies


ouglas Noonan received his Ph.D. in Public Policy at the Harris School of Public Policy Studies at the University of Chicago. His dissertation, "Microeconomic Analysis Of Adapting to Environmental Public Goods: Three Essays on Making Lemonade from Lemons," explored urban environmental features, genetic resistance in agriculture, and local environmental amenities. His research has employed spatial econometrics and microeconomic theory as well as survey design methods to examine the value of environmental goods. He has contributed chapters to books on genetic resistance issues, valuation of cultural resources, and environmental management.

His current research projects focus on environmental variability and human responses. This involves studying changes in outdoor activity due to air quality and weather variation, the value of forecast information, and institutional responses to such unpredictability. Noonan's research examines the spatial distribution of parks and brownfields, and the "sense of place" values of urban residents. He is also working on a project estimating future air quality in the Atlanta metropolitan area. His work also includes a survey of quality of life in Chicago, the Environmental Kuznets Curve, and the economics of genetic resources (e.g. antibiotic and pesticide resistance).

He also earned a M.A. in Public Policy at the University of Chicago. He received his B.A. in International Studies (magna cum laude with high honors) from the University of Washington. He was co-contributing editor of Managing the Commons.