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Regression discontinuity designs in agricultural and environmental economics

Author

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  • David Wuepper
  • Robert Finger

Abstract

Regression discontinuity designs (RDD) are increasingly being employed in agricultural and environmental economics to identify causal effects. Here, we showcase recent applications, identify best practices, discuss commonly invoked identifying assumptions and show how these can be tested. We discuss basic empirical issues and more advanced topics, including how to exploit the availability of panel data, models to explain heterogeneous treatment effects and extrapolation of local estimates. Moreover, we show how agricultural economists can leverage RDD in combination with remote sensing and environmental modelling. Finally, we highlight three areas of emerging opportunities and draw conclusions for research and policy.

Suggested Citation

  • David Wuepper & Robert Finger, 2023. "Regression discontinuity designs in agricultural and environmental economics," European Review of Agricultural Economics, Oxford University Press and the European Agricultural and Applied Economics Publications Foundation, vol. 50(1), pages 1-28.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:erevae:v:50:y:2023:i:1:p:1-28.
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    File URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1093/erae/jbac023
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    3. Mingze Du & Tongwei Zhang & Dehui Wang, 2023. "Can China’s Campaign-Style Environmental Regulation Improve the Green Total Factor Productivity?," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(24), pages 1-20, December.
    4. Ge, Suqin & He, Quqiong & Sarangi, Sudipta, 2024. "Reaping what you sow: Historical rice farming and contemporary cooperative behavior in China," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 217(C), pages 581-613.

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