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Determinants of pollutant emissions in the Spanish agri-food sector: The role of international trade

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  • Yolanda Sorroche-del-Rey

    (Department of Economics and Business, University of Almería (Agrifood Campus of International Excellence, ceiA3; Mediterranean Research Centre on Economics and Sustainable Development, CIMEDES), Almería, Spain)

  • Laura Piedra-Muñoz

    (Department of Economics and Business, University of Almería (Agrifood Campus of International Excellence, ceiA3; Mediterranean Research Centre on Economics and Sustainable Development, CIMEDES), Almería, Spain)

  • Emilio Galdeano-Gómez

    (Department of Economics and Business, University of Almería (Agrifood Campus of International Excellence, ceiA3; Mediterranean Research Centre on Economics and Sustainable Development, CIMEDES), Almería, Spain)

  • Eva M. García-Granero

    (Department of Economics and Business, University of Almería (Agrifood Campus of International Excellence, ceiA3; Mediterranean Research Centre on Economics and Sustainable Development, CIMEDES), Almería, Spain)

Abstract

This study aims to analyse the key company-level variables influencing pollutant emissions in the Spanish agri-food sector and investigate the bidirectional relationship between international trade and environmental performance. Using panel data from 2007-2020, we employ discrete choice models to test causal relationships between business variables and environmental impact. Empirical findings show a negative correlation between internationalisation and polluting emissions from agri-food companies. Additionally, other factors, such as company age and size, also influence this index. These results provide valuable insights for economic decision-makers in the agri-food market, highlighting the implications of international trade and business variables on pollution levels.

Suggested Citation

  • Yolanda Sorroche-del-Rey & Laura Piedra-Muñoz & Emilio Galdeano-Gómez & Eva M. García-Granero, 2025. "Determinants of pollutant emissions in the Spanish agri-food sector: The role of international trade," Agricultural Economics, Czech Academy of Agricultural Sciences, vol. 71(3), pages 130-141.
    • Handle: RePEc:caa:jnlage:v:71:y:2025:i:3:id:353-2024-agricecon
    DOI: 10.17221/353/2024-AGRICECON
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