Unraveling Agricultural Carbon Neutrality Level for the Sustainable Development of a Green Economy: Evidence From Economic Law in China

ABSTRACT China's agricultural sector is a significant contributor to Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, posing a severe challenge to the sustainable development of agriculture and fostering a green economy. Notably, farmers are at the forefront of this transition, playing a critical role in prompting a shift towards greener and carbon neutrality (CN) agricultural practices, thus directly influencing the realization of carbon reduction objectives. In this regard, an extensive survey was conducted in Jiangsu Province (China), collecting data from 315 respondents. Using linear regression analysis and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), this study uncovered the significant elements influencing farmers' motivation based on sustainable agricultural practices and their inclination to adopt economic law. The results shed light on several aspects. First, farmers' approach to CN agricultural practices is significantly influenced by their motivation based on sustainable agricultural practices and their adoption of economic law principles. Second, it profoundly affects farmers' willingness to embrace CN farming practices. Furthermore, a substantial connection exists between these motivations and factors, such as behavioral attitude and perceived behavioral control, showcasing a multi‐faceted influence on farmers' actions. Finally, the policy recommendations support farmers' inclination toward sustainable agriculture, encouraging a disposition to integrate economic principles into farming practices and further environmental goals.