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Voluntary Pollution Abatement: Testing Alternative Theories

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  • Innes, Robert
  • Sam, Abdoul G.

Abstract

We broaden the existing empirical literature on environmental regulation and voluntary pollution abatement programs by testing the effects of implicit boycott threats and a firm's participation in a partnership program on its subsequent regulatory oversight using EPA's 33/50 program as a research experiment. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis of a preemptive self-selection to deter consumer boycotts. The findings also indicate that (1) predetermined corrective actions constitute a significant determinant of voluntary participation and (2) EPA reciprocated to voluntary participation by easing regulatory oversight on participants.

Suggested Citation

  • Innes, Robert & Sam, Abdoul G., 2003. "Voluntary Pollution Abatement: Testing Alternative Theories," 2003 Annual meeting, July 27-30, Montreal, Canada 21945, American Agricultural Economics Association (New Name 2008: Agricultural and Applied Economics Association).
    • Handle: RePEc:ags:aaea03:21945
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.21945
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    References listed on IDEAS

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