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The data as a production factor: nonlinear effects of factor efficiency on haze pollution

Author

Listed:
  • Mei-Rui Zhong

    (Central South University
    Central South University)

  • Jia-Yu Fu

    (Central South University
    Central South University)

  • Han Zou

    (Central South University
    Central South University)

Abstract

Data factor is impacting existing production mode and empowering traditional production factors. This article considers data as an independent factor to calculate data efficiency and energy efficiency by a slacks-based measure model. Then, the spatial Durbin model is used to assess the nonlinear effects of factor efficiency on haze pollution in 278 Chinese cities during 2012–2019. The measurement results showed that annual average data and energy efficiencies are 0.7747 and 0.7920, respectively. The benchmark regression confirmed a significant U-shaped relationship between energy efficiency and haze pollution in both local and neighbouring regions, and inverted U-shaped relationship existed between data efficiency and haze pollution, but the spatial spillover effect manifested as a U-shaped relationship. The mechanism test suggested that pollution control effect of data efficiency is achieved by green technological innovation and industrial structure upgrade. Besides, the heterogeneity analysis showed that the “Smart City” policy benefits social production for higher data and energy efficiency, which magnified the role in controlling haze pollution. Over 60% samples in current data efficiency cross the inflection point of inverted U-shaped curve to inhibit haze pollution, and this article provided important guidance for regional environmental construction by developing data factor.

Suggested Citation

  • Mei-Rui Zhong & Jia-Yu Fu & Han Zou, 2025. "The data as a production factor: nonlinear effects of factor efficiency on haze pollution," Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, Springer, vol. 27(4), pages 8977-9002, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:endesu:v:27:y:2025:i:4:d:10.1007_s10668-023-04264-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s10668-023-04264-z
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