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A robust network DEA model for sustainability assessment: an application to Chinese Provinces

Author

Listed:
  • Zhongfei Chen

    (Jinan University)

  • Stavros Kourtzidis

    (University of Dundee)

  • Panayiotis Tzeremes

    (University of Thessaly)

  • Nickolaos Tzeremes

    (University of Thessaly)

Abstract

This paper constructs an Environmental Sustainability index in order to investigate regional efficiency in China between 2000 and 2012. The Environmental Sustainability index consists of a Production Efficiency index and an Eco-efficiency index. A multiplicative relational network data envelopment analysis model is applied, and a window analysis is conducted to capture the efficiency trends over time. The results reveal significant heterogeneity among Chinese provinces for the Environmental Sustainability and the Eco-efficiency indices, while there is a high level of Production Efficiency across all provinces. Furthermore, there are large differences among geographical areas. Specifically, high Production Efficiency levels are reported for the eastern area, whereas, high Eco-efficiency levels are reported for the western area. The reported results provide valuable insights to decision makers, revealing a high potential for improvement in the overall Environmental Sustainability score, especially for the eastern and middle areas. In addition, regional heterogeneity should be taken into account when considering new legislation.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhongfei Chen & Stavros Kourtzidis & Panayiotis Tzeremes & Nickolaos Tzeremes, 2022. "A robust network DEA model for sustainability assessment: an application to Chinese Provinces," Operational Research, Springer, vol. 22(1), pages 235-262, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:operea:v:22:y:2022:i:1:d:10.1007_s12351-020-00553-x
    DOI: 10.1007/s12351-020-00553-x
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Chinese provinces; Eco-efficiency; Environmental sustainability; Network data envelopment analysis; Production efficiency;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C61 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Mathematical Methods; Programming Models; Mathematical and Simulation Modeling - - - Optimization Techniques; Programming Models; Dynamic Analysis
    • C67 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Mathematical Methods; Programming Models; Mathematical and Simulation Modeling - - - Input-Output Models
    • P25 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Socialist and Transition Economies - - - Urban, Rural, and Regional Economics
    • P28 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Socialist and Transition Economies - - - Natural Resources; Environment

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