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Industry 4.0 and Environmental Protection: The Catalyst Role of Public Financial Support

Author

Listed:
  • Cristina Lopez-Cozar-Navarro

    (Polytechnic University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain)

  • Tiziana Priede-Bergamini

    (European University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain)

  • Diego Cuello-de-Oro-Celestino

    (University of Valladolid, Segovia, Spain)

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between the adoption of digital technologies and the corporate commitment to environmental protection, while also exploring whether this relationship is strengthened by public financial support. Using a sample of 1,616 Spanish manufacturing firms and analyzing each technology independently, the study finds a positive and significant association between Industry 4.0 technologies and the implementation of environmental practices. Furthermore, the results highlight the mediating role of public support, since firms adopting advanced technologies and receiving direct state funding or tax incentives demonstrate higher levels of environmental investment. By disaggregating the types of technologies and distinguishing between funding mechanisms, this research provides nuanced insights into the effectiveness of public interventions in promoting sustainable production processes. The findings underscore the interplay between the public and private sectors in advancing environmental innovation, revealing the role of statism in fostering sustainability within the framework of Industry 4.0.

Suggested Citation

  • Cristina Lopez-Cozar-Navarro & Tiziana Priede-Bergamini & Diego Cuello-de-Oro-Celestino, 2025. "Industry 4.0 and Environmental Protection: The Catalyst Role of Public Financial Support," The AMFITEATRU ECONOMIC journal, Academy of Economic Studies - Bucharest, Romania, vol. 27(68), pages 111-111, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:aes:amfeco:v:27:y:2025:i:68:p:111
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Industry 4.0; technologies; public support; environmental protection; subsidies; tax deductions.;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • M11 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Production Management
    • M15 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - IT Management
    • O32 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes

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