Determinants of Cleaner Technology Investments in the U.S. Bleached Kraft Pulp Industry

Leigh J. Maynard and James S. Shortle

Abstract

This study identifies adoption determinants of selected cleaner technologies used in bleached kraft pulp production, with emphasis on incentives for voluntary environmental management. A double-hurdle model consistent with the theory of irreversible investment under uncertainty outperformed a probit specification, indicating the importance of option values as an adoption deterrent. Measures of public pressure for environmental performance, such as Toxics Release Inventory data and environmental group membership, were positively associated with cleaner technology adoption. The results suggest a role for environmental policy designs that accommodate the industry’ s private incentives while minimizing the value of waiting to adopt cleaner technologies. (JEL Q25)

This article requires a subscription to view the full text. If you have a subscription you may use the login form below to view the article. Access to this article can also be purchased.

Purchase access

You may purchase access to this article. This will require you to create an account if you don't already have one.