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How to Achieve Carbon Neutrality in Cities? Evidence from China’s Low-Carbon Cities Development

Author

Listed:
  • Huaxing Wang

    (Guanghua Law School, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310000, China
    Law School, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou 310000, China)

  • Chuan Chen

    (School of Management, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310000, China)

  • Zhiqiao Xiong

    (School of Economics and Management, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410005, China)

  • Dandan Li

    (School of Low-Carbon Economics, Hubei University of Economics, Wuhan 430000, China
    Collaborative Innovation Center for Emissions Trading System Co-Constructed by the Province and Ministry, Hubei University of Economics, Wuhan 430000, China)

Abstract

Low-carbon city pilots (LCCP) is a key policy for realizing emission peak and carbon neutrality in China, using China’s samples from 280 towns from 2006 to 2016. The article utilizes PSM-DID, mediated effects, and moderating effects approach for validating a CO 2 reduction effect, mechanisms, and synergistic elements of LCCP. The regression outcomes suggest that (1) LCCP significantly decreases CO 2 emissions levels and average annual carbon emissions in LCCP fall by 2.6 percent. (2) LCCP focus on reducing carbon emissions by increasing R&D investment, the efficiency of energy, and decreasing the high CO 2 emissions industry. Among them, the reduction of the high carbon emission industry is mainly FDI, while the reduction of local industry is not obvious. (3) LCCP’s carbon reduction effects suggest a reversed U-shape relationship with city size. Digitalization and marketization of LCCP are crucial to the carbon reduction effect. Carbon reduction and pollution reduction have a strong synergistic effect.

Suggested Citation

  • Huaxing Wang & Chuan Chen & Zhiqiao Xiong & Dandan Li, 2023. "How to Achieve Carbon Neutrality in Cities? Evidence from China’s Low-Carbon Cities Development," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(3), pages 1-16, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2023:i:3:p:2121-:d:1045595
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