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The decarbonization effect of data elements in the supply chain

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  • Ma, Dan
  • Xiao, Fang
  • Lee, Chien-Chiang

Abstract

In advancing the synergy between carbon neutrality objectives and digital transformation, elucidating how data elements contribute to decarbonizing supply chains is crucial for reinforcing the role of emerging production factors and shaping innovative models of environmental regulation. Drawing on panel data of Chinese A-share listed firms during 2009–2022, this study constructs a dataset at the upstream supplier–downstream firm–year level and empirically investigates the supply-chain-based low-carbon effects of data elements and their underlying mechanisms. First, this study innovatively measures the development level of data elements within enterprises from the perspective of the data value chain by leveraging a Large Language Model. Second, empirical evidence based on supply-chain-level data indicates that data elements exert a supply chain decarbonization effect. Third, knowledge spillover, carbon neutrality technology innovation, improved supply chain finance, and human capital upgrading constitute important pathways through which this effect operates. This study yields policy insights into how to unlock the value of data elements and foster the coordinated advancement of supply chain digitalization and the green transition.

Suggested Citation

  • Ma, Dan & Xiao, Fang & Lee, Chien-Chiang, 2026. "The decarbonization effect of data elements in the supply chain," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 160(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:eneeco:v:160:y:2026:i:c:s0140988326003294
    DOI: 10.1016/j.eneco.2026.109450
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