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Unraveling Agricultural Carbon Neutrality Level for the Sustainable Development of a Green Economy: Evidence From Economic Law in China

Author

Listed:
  • Wali Muhammad Khoso
  • Qingmei Tan
  • Yasir Ahmed Solangi
  • Muhammad Irfan
  • Cosimo Magazzino

Abstract

China's agricultural sector is a significant contributor to Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, posing a severe challenge to the sustainable development of agriculture and fostering a green economy. Notably, farmers are at the forefront of this transition, playing a critical role in prompting a shift towards greener and carbon neutrality (CN) agricultural practices, thus directly influencing the realization of carbon reduction objectives. In this regard, an extensive survey was conducted in Jiangsu Province (China), collecting data from 315 respondents. Using linear regression analysis and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), this study uncovered the significant elements influencing farmers' motivation based on sustainable agricultural practices and their inclination to adopt economic law. The results shed light on several aspects. First, farmers' approach to CN agricultural practices is significantly influenced by their motivation based on sustainable agricultural practices and their adoption of economic law principles. Second, it profoundly affects farmers' willingness to embrace CN farming practices. Furthermore, a substantial connection exists between these motivations and factors, such as behavioral attitude and perceived behavioral control, showcasing a multi‐faceted influence on farmers' actions. Finally, the policy recommendations support farmers' inclination toward sustainable agriculture, encouraging a disposition to integrate economic principles into farming practices and further environmental goals.

Suggested Citation

  • Wali Muhammad Khoso & Qingmei Tan & Yasir Ahmed Solangi & Muhammad Irfan & Cosimo Magazzino, 2025. "Unraveling Agricultural Carbon Neutrality Level for the Sustainable Development of a Green Economy: Evidence From Economic Law in China," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 33(S1), pages 687-703, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:sustdv:v:33:y:2025:i:s1:p:687-703
    DOI: 10.1002/sd.70015
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    Cited by:

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    2. Cosimo Magazzino & Chan Wei Leong & Muhammad Faheem, 2026. "Do green finance shocks reduce emissions? Nonlinear evidence from BRICS countries," Future Business Journal, Springer, vol. 12(1), pages 1-18, December.

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