Environmental and socioeconomic multivariate analysis of the primary economic sector of Mexico

Canonical correspondence analyses were made for the primary economic sector of all 32 Mexican states. Environmental, social and economic indicators were considered in the analyses. Four homogeneous units, fisheries, forestry, agriculture and anthropogenic aptitude, were identified. Coastal states showed a higher contribution to the gross national product (GNP) than noncoastal states. Jalisco had the highest contribution to the GNP. Our analysis represents a useful tool to describe and arrange homogeneous state groups inside the country. This ordering will be useful to develop national strategies, both socioeconomic and environmental. We hope this kind of analysis will be useful for the decision makers not only in Mexico, but also in other countries that use this innovative approach. Copyright (C) 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.