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Digitalization transformation and ESG performance: Evidence from China

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  • Yuzhong Lu
  • Cheng Xu
  • Bingsheng Zhu
  • Yanqi Sun

Abstract

The mechanisms underlying the relationship between firms' digitalization transformation and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) are underexplored. Using a sample of Chinese listed firms from 2011 to 2020, this research explores the mechanisms whereby digitalization affects firms' ESG performance. We found: (i) digitalization transformation can effectively promote firms' ESG performance; (ii) digital transformation promotes firms' ESG performance by enhancing internal control and green innovation; and (iii) the positive effects between digital transformation and ESG performance are more pronounced in non‐state‐owned‐enterprises (non‐SOEs) and firms of the manufacturing industry, and hi‐tech firms, as well as firms with a higher ratio of independent directors and higher analyst coverage. (iv) The government's supportive attitude towards industrial policy has a positive moderating effect on the impact of digital transformation on ESG performance, and the degree of marketization in the region where the firm is located has a negative moderating effect on the relationship between digital transformation and ESG performance. Our research deepens the understanding of the nuanced mechanism underlying the positive relationship between firms' digital transformation and their ESG performance.

Suggested Citation

  • Yuzhong Lu & Cheng Xu & Bingsheng Zhu & Yanqi Sun, 2024. "Digitalization transformation and ESG performance: Evidence from China," Business Strategy and the Environment, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 33(2), pages 352-368, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:bstrat:v:33:y:2024:i:2:p:352-368
    DOI: 10.1002/bse.3494
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jingzhuo Yu & Yong-Sik Hwang, 2024. "The Interaction Effects of Board Independence and Digital Transformation on Environmental, Social, and Governance Performance: Complementary or Substitutive?," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(20), pages 1-26, October.
    2. Xiangwei Xie & Hongyu Zhu & Jinjing Zhao, 2024. "How effective is digital transformation? Heterogeneous insights from listed companies’ ESG performance," Palgrave Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 11(1), pages 1-15, December.

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