J 2026

Migratory responses to air pollution reduction: Evidence from large-scale desulfurization programme

MIKULA, Štěpán and Mariola PYTLIKOVÁ

Basic information

Original name

Migratory responses to air pollution reduction: Evidence from large-scale desulfurization programme

Authors

MIKULA, Štěpán and Mariola PYTLIKOVÁ

Edition

European Economic Review, NETHERLANDS, Elsevier Science BV, 2026, 0014-2921

Other information

Language

English

Type of outcome

Article in a journal

Country of publisher

Netherlands

Confidentiality degree

is not subject to a state or trade secret

References:

URL

Organization

Ekonomicko-správní fakulta – Repository – Repository

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.euroecorev.2025.105154

UT WoS

001606207100001

EID Scopus

2-s2.0-105020868776

Keywords in English

Air quality; Migration; Natural experiment

Links

LX22NPO5101, research and development project.
Changed: 4/12/2025 00:51, RNDr. Daniel Jakubík

Abstract

In the original language

This paper examines how improvements in air quality affect migration behavior. We exploit a natural experiment in the Czech Republic, where rapid desulfurization of coal-fired power plants in the 1990s led to a sharp reduction in SO2 pollution - from extremely high levels to below EU/WHO limits - without directly impacting economic activity. Using a difference-in-differences approach, we find that cleaner air reduced emigration from previously heavily polluted municipalities by 24% and increased net migration by 78%, with effects strongest in the most polluted areas. The impact was particularly pronounced among highly educated individuals. Migration responses were strongest in municipalities with weaker social capital and fewer public amenities, suggesting that environmental improvements matter most where other local advantages are limited. In contrast, anti-emigration monetary subsidies—such as those offered during the socialist period in polluted areas—had no effect. Overall, our findings highlight the potential of environmental policies to support re-population and regional revitalization—especially when combined with investments in infrastructure and public services.
Displayed: 16/12/2025 14:57