Exploring land use determinants in Italian municipalities: comparison of spatial econometric models

Abstract This study sets up a spatial econometric framework to explore the factors that best describe land consumption in Italy at municipal level. By modelling different types of interactions and geographical proximity between all Italian municipalities, direct effects use drivers are assessed together with spillover effects. Land data drawn from ISPRA-SNPA 82/18 Report cover 7,998 municipalities. The results highlight existence endogenous exogenous interaction crucial role demographic, socio-economic institutional structure on intensity. Hence need for planning policy aimed at: i ) strengthening cooperation deal excessive administrative fragmentation; ii improving governmental quality trigger virtuous mechanisms sustainable management.