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Decision mechanism of farmers’ low-carbon agricultural technology adoption: an evolutionary game theory approach

Author

Listed:
  • Adnan Khan

    (New Zealand University of Waikato Institute, Hangzhou City University
    University of Waikato)

  • Xiaoyu Qu

    (Dalian Polytechnic University)

  • Zhendong Gong

    (Dalian Polytechnic University)

Abstract

This study examines the impact of low-carbon agricultural technology on mitigating global climate change and advancing rural revitalization in China. Climate change poses serious environmental challenges that hinder economic and social development. Conventional agriculture contributes significantly to carbon emissions and ecological imbalance. Therefore, adopting low-carbon agricultural technology, an environmentally-friendly way of transforming agricultural production and operation, is essential. This technology is not only aligned with China’s rural revitalization strategy, but also a viable response to global climate change. To enhance farmers’ willingness to adopt low-carbon agricultural technology, it is important to understand the factors influencing their acceptance. This study applies evolutionary game theory to analyze the behaviors of farmers, governments, and agricultural enterprises, which affect the adoption of low-carbon agricultural technology. It uses MATLAB numerical simulation analysis to explore how different policy interventions can incentivize farmers to adopt low-carbon agriculture technologies. The results suggest that government support, incentives, and guidance for enterprises can facilitate farmers’ adoption of low-carbon agricultural technology, but timely adjustments are needed to avoid a decline in the adoption rate. Government subsidies, penalties, and monitoring can encourage farmers to adopt low-carbon farming technologies. This paper contributes to the literature on low-carbon agriculture and rural revitalization in China and provides practical implications for policymakers and practitioners.

Suggested Citation

  • Adnan Khan & Xiaoyu Qu & Zhendong Gong, 2025. "Decision mechanism of farmers’ low-carbon agricultural technology adoption: an evolutionary game theory approach," Empirica, Springer;Austrian Institute for Economic Research;Austrian Economic Association, vol. 52(2), pages 297-331, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:empiri:v:52:y:2025:i:2:d:10.1007_s10663-025-09645-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s10663-025-09645-3
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    References listed on IDEAS

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