Learn about market failure in economics, where supply and demand imbalances lead to inefficient distribution, its types, and causes.

Our environment is filled with scarce and finite resources — including clean air and water, fertile land, critical minerals, and energy resources — that are all impacted by human decisions.

Investopedia contributors come from a range of backgrounds, and over 25 years there have been thousands of expert writers and editors who have contributed. Amanda Bellucco-Chatham is an editor, writer ...