The relationship between water pollution control and agricultural eco-efficiency: Based on economic threshold perspective

Abstract

[Objective] In order to examine the crucial role of water pollution control in promoting green agricultural development,given its primary status as a water environmental pollutant, by exploring the relationship between water pollution control and agricultural eco-efficiency under economic thresholds, the optimize green agricultural development strategies were seeked.[Methods] Using a three-stage SBM model, the agricultural eco-efficiency was caloulated, which was eliminated the influences of external environments and random errors. A threshold effect model then assesses the differential association between water pollution control and eco-efficiency, identifying specific economic thresholds. [Results] Result reveal a nonlinear relationship characterized by a dual-threshold effect, with thresholds at 8 796 yuan and 12 897 yuan, respectively, across rural economic levels. [Conclusion] It is concluded that external factors like rural economic prosperity significantly affect eco-efficiency estimates, and greater economic affluence leads to a more harmonious relationship between water pollution control and ecoefficiency. Consequently, regions should adjust green agricultural strategies′ priorities based on their rural economic stages to ensure the effectiveness and targeted application of water pollution control measures.

Keywords

water invironment / water pollution control / agricultural eco-efficiency / threshold effect model / rural economic level / three-stage SBM model