North-South Displacement Effects of Environmental Regulation: The Case of Battery Recycling

A-Tier
Journal: American Economic Review: Insights
Year: 2022
Volume: 4
Issue: 3
Pages: 271-88

Score contribution per author:

1.341 = (α=2.01 / 3 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

This study examines the effect of a tightening of the US air quality standard for lead in 2009 on the relocation of battery recycling to Mexico and on infant health in Mexico. In the United States, air-borne lead dropped sharply near affected plants, most of which were battery-recycling plants. Exports of used batteries to Mexico rose markedly. In Mexico, production increased at battery-recycling plants relative to comparable industries, and birth outcomes deteriorated within two miles of those plants relative to areas slightly farther away. The case provides a salient example of a pollution-haven effect between a developed and a developing country.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:aea:aerins:v:4:y:2022:i:3:p:271-88
Journal Field
General
Author Count
3
Added to Database
2026-01-29