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The impact of digital infrastructure on carbon emissions: evidence from 284 cities in China

Author

Listed:
  • Li Deng

    (Guangdong University of Foreign Studies
    Huizhou University)

  • Zhangqi Zhong

    (Guangdong University of Foreign Studies)

Abstract

This study examines the impact of digital infrastructure on carbon emissions utilizing urban panel data spanning from 2007 to 2022 in China. The research findings reveal that digital infrastructure has mitigated carbon emissions in cities, with a more pronounced effect observed in eastern and northern regions. Notably, large cities and non-resource-based cities have reaped greater environmental benefits from digital infrastructure. Key mechanisms driving this reduction include lowering energy consumption, fostering green technological innovations, and enhancing factor allocation efficiency. Additionally, digital infrastructure construction exhibits a spatial spillover effect, where local digital infrastructure inhibits carbon emissions in neighboring cities. These discoveries offer insightful references for policymakers in planning the application of digital infrastructure to facilitate carbon reduction efforts.

Suggested Citation

  • Li Deng & Zhangqi Zhong, 2024. "The impact of digital infrastructure on carbon emissions: evidence from 284 cities in China," Economic Change and Restructuring, Springer, vol. 57(5), pages 1-38, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:ecopln:v:57:y:2024:i:5:d:10.1007_s10644-024-09745-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s10644-024-09745-3
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ana Abeliansky & Klaus Prettner & Ernesto Rodríguez Crespo, 2024. "Climate change and automation: the emission effects of robot adoption," Department of Economics Working Papers wuwp370, Vienna University of Economics and Business, Department of Economics.

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