Strategic Uncertainty, Collective Action, and Technology Adoption: The Case of Citrus Greening скачать в хорошем качестве

Strategic Uncertainty, Collective Action, and Technology Adoption: The Case of Citrus Greening

Citrus production in Florida has decreased by more than 80% since citrus greening disease was first found in the state. While we found evidence that the area-wide pest management (AWPM) program to control the vector of the disease was cost- effective, grower participation in the program has not been as widespread as expected. By analyzing data, we collected by conducting an integrated survey and framed field economic experiment grounded on the theory of global games, we were able to unveil a behavioral component underlying growers’ otherwise seemingly irrational decisions regarding their low AWPM participation; the strategic uncertainty involved in relying on neighbors made many growers choose self-reliance in spraying despite the lower payoff. Moreover, growers not only ended up not coordinating sprays but also adopting scientifically unproven strategies instead. Insights from a better understanding of the preferences of growers towards uncertain outcomes are key for policymakers to design and implement effective public policies when externalities on the environment and human health are involved. Seminario Conjunto Economía – Economía Agrícola, Recursos Naturales y Agronegocios