Surfing a Wave of Economic Growth

Thomas McGregor and Samuel Wills

No 2017-05, Working Papers from University of Sydney, School of Economics

Abstract: We investigate whether the geographic determinants of growth extend to natural amenities. We combine data on spatial and temporal variation in the quality of over 5000 surf breaks globally with data on local economic performance, proxied by night-time lights. We document a strong association between natural amenity quality and local economic development. Economic activity grows faster near good surf breaks; following the discovery of new breaks, or the technology needed to ride them; and during El Niño events that generate high-quality waves. The effects are concentrated in nearby towns and emerging economies, and population changes are consistent with tourism.

Keywords: Economic growth; new economic geography; natural advantages; natural amenities; tourism; surfing; night-time lights (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2017-03, Revised 2017-03
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-ure
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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Related works:
Working Paper: Surfing a wave of economic growth (2017)
Working Paper: SURFING A WAVE OF ECONOMIC GROWTH (2016)
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:syd:wpaper:2017-05

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