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How Do Intellectual Property Rights Affect Green Technological Innovation? Empirical Evidence from China

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  • Yihao Cao

    (School of Economics, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China)

  • Ehsan Elahi

    (School of Economics, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China)

  • Zainab Khalid

    (School of Economics and Management, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China)

  • Ping Li

    (School of Economics, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China)

  • Pengsheng Sun

    (School of Economics, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China)

Abstract

The aim of this research is to investigate the impact of intellectual property rights (IPR) on green technological innovation in China. The study utilizes a mixed-method approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative methods, to provide empirical evidence on the subject matter. According to the findings, IPR protection may have a favorable impact on the green technological innovation (GTI) of firms. According to mechanism testing, the channels by which IPR protection influences businesses’ GTI are research and development (R&D) input and foreign investment entry, whereas the human capital and finance capability of firms can favorably moderate the link between IPR protection and GTI. According to heterogeneity tests, private firms, exporting firms, and firms in industries with a high degree of monopoly are more notable for their promotional effect of IPR protection on the GTI of firms.

Suggested Citation

  • Yihao Cao & Ehsan Elahi & Zainab Khalid & Ping Li & Pengsheng Sun, 2023. "How Do Intellectual Property Rights Affect Green Technological Innovation? Empirical Evidence from China," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(10), pages 1-17, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:10:p:7762-:d:1142683
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