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Social networks, Internet use, and farmers' participation in clean heating

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  • Ren, Zhong
  • Shahbaz, Muhammad
  • Zhong, Kaiyang

Abstract

Social networks and Internet use are important channels for farmers to access information about clean heating. However, few studies have jointly analyzed their effectiveness in promoting farmers' participation in clean heating. Taking 466 farmers in China as examples, this study uses Probit model to explore the impact of social networks and Internet use on farmers' participation in clean heating. Results indicate that the participation rate of farmers in clean heating is 69.95 %. Social networks (0.278) and Internet use (0.417) has a significant favorable effect on farmers' participation in clean heating, and the Internet use moderates the effectiveness of social networks. In terms of generational differences, the older generation's participation in clean heating is generally influenced by social networks (0.389), while the new generation is mainly influenced by Internet use (0.491). The results of this study offer important perspectives for exploring the motivation of farmers' participation in clean heating, and facilitate the government to formulate more effective policies to promote clean heating.

Suggested Citation

  • Ren, Zhong & Shahbaz, Muhammad & Zhong, Kaiyang, 2025. "Social networks, Internet use, and farmers' participation in clean heating," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 320(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:320:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225009429
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.135300
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