This paper investigates the role of digitalisation in enhancing environmental sustainability. Using micro-data from the Italian Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN) dataset on agrifood firms and counterfactual methods, we find first evidence that digitalised firms in the agri-food sector exhibit lower emissions, while no significant effects on water use is detected. The potential effects on nondigitalised firms-had they been treated-are estimated to be even larger. The paper offers novel and significant policy insights on promoting digital transition to achieve environmental and social objectives while fostering a more effective strategy for economic viability.
Where digitalisation supports sustainability: environmental gains in the agri-food sector
Vaquero-Pineiro, Cristina
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2025-01-01
Abstract
This paper investigates the role of digitalisation in enhancing environmental sustainability. Using micro-data from the Italian Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN) dataset on agrifood firms and counterfactual methods, we find first evidence that digitalised firms in the agri-food sector exhibit lower emissions, while no significant effects on water use is detected. The potential effects on nondigitalised firms-had they been treated-are estimated to be even larger. The paper offers novel and significant policy insights on promoting digital transition to achieve environmental and social objectives while fostering a more effective strategy for economic viability.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
