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The impact of artificial intelligence policy on green innovation of firms

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  • Lin, Boqiang
  • Zhu, Yitong

Abstract

As a pivotal force in driving innovation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has played a significant role in the technological advancement of enterprises. Investigating the impact of AI pilot policies on corporate green innovation is not only conducive to optimizing the development trajectory of AI but also an essential measure in advancing sustainable development strategies. This study uses the 2019 Chinese AI Innovation and Development Pilot Zone (AIP) policy as a quasi-natural experiment, examining the influence of policy on corporate green innovation and its intrinsic mechanisms of action. The findings indicate: (1) The AIP policy significantly fosters green innovation among enterprises in the pilot regions, with results remaining robust after a series of sensitivity tests; (2) Mechanism analysis reveals that the influence of the policy on corporate green innovation is mediated by R&D investment and is also moderated by the level of ESG and environmental disclosure; (3) Heterogeneity tests discover that the policy has a more pronounced impact on enterprises with superior financing conditions, lower market concentration, and higher levels of regional digital economic development. This paper not only provides theoretical support for understanding the role of AI in corporate green development but also offers empirical references for assessing the policy effects of AI development.

Suggested Citation

  • Lin, Boqiang & Zhu, Yitong, 2025. "The impact of artificial intelligence policy on green innovation of firms," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 148(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:eneeco:v:148:y:2025:i:c:s0140988325003482
    DOI: 10.1016/j.eneco.2025.108524
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    Cited by:

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    3. Wang, Yang & Wang, Yongheng & Yang, Pengyu, 2025. "Does artificial intelligence impact corporate ESG performance? Evidence from a quasi-natural experiment in China," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 151(C).
    4. Lin, Boqiang & Zhou, Dengli, 2025. "A new green transition driver: How does artificial intelligence affect the green economic efficiency," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 334(C).

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