Analysis of Spatial Distribution and Spillover Effects of Fertilizer Application Intensity in Inner Mongolia, China

Abstract

The overuse of fertilizers has caused significant environmental pollution. In this paper, we aim to improve fertilizer utilization and promote sustainable agricultural development. Based on panel data at the flag (county) level in Inner Mongolia from 2001 to 2020, we analyzed the spatial heterogeneity and correlation of fertilizer application intensity using a two-stage nested Theil index and Moran’s I, and employed a Durbin model to elucidate its spatial spillover effects. The results show that overall disparities in fertilizer application intensity showed a decreasing trend, with league (city) disparities being the main reason for the overall disparities. In terms of spatial patterns, there is a positive spatial correlation between flags (counties), with the western region exhibiting a “high-high” type that gradually shifts towards the eastern region, particularly the cities of Tongliao and Chifeng. The central and eastern regions exhibit a “low-low” type. Future endeavors to decrease fertilizer application intensity are mainly focused on establishing “high-high” clusters. Policymakers should leverage these spatial interactions to diminish fertilizer usage and mitigate environmental pollution. Farmers, affluence, agricultural economic development, and grain yield positively influence fertilizer application intensity while agricultural modernization and land size have negative effects. All these factors demonstrate significant spatial spillover effects.