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The impact of digital government on natural resource utilization efficiency

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  • Liu, Xuan
  • Qian, Kaihao
  • Huo, Xuexi
  • Li, Shanhong
  • Wu, Qingyang

Abstract

Governments wield significant influence in the management of natural resources, and the advent of digital transformation offers a fresh impetus for governments to attain efficacious governance. This manuscript delves into the ramifications of digital government on the efficacy of natural resource utilization, drawing on both theoretical and empirical examinations based on panel data encompassing 30 provinces and cities in China spanning the years 2011–2021. The findings corroborate that digital government engenders a noteworthy enhancement in natural resource utilization efficiency, a conclusion that endures even after stringent tests to ensure reliability and account for potential endogeneity factors. Insights garnered from mechanism tests reveal that the augmentation of natural resource utilization efficiency, stemming from digital government, primarily emanates from the amelioration of government services—a discernible hallmark of a responsive government. Concurrently, when the role of efficient markets is considered, it transpires that marketization can positively regulate the impact of digital government, thereby bolstering its favorable effect on the efficient use of natural resources. Heterogeneity analyses disclose that eastern and central regions display a more pronounced positive effect of digital government on natural resource utilization efficiency in comparison to the western region. Furthermore, this effect is discernible in provinces not reliant on resource-based industries, while its manifestation is less conspicuous in provinces reliant on such sectors. Moreover, provinces boasting a robust digital infrastructure exhibit a more sizable positive effect of digital government on natural resource utilization efficiency. The research articulated herein not only enhances our comprehensive comprehension of the crucial role of digital government but also furnishes policymakers with valuable insights conducive to bolstering natural resource utilization efficiency and achieving sustainable economic and social development.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Xuan & Qian, Kaihao & Huo, Xuexi & Li, Shanhong & Wu, Qingyang, 2024. "The impact of digital government on natural resource utilization efficiency," Resources Policy, Elsevier, vol. 93(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jrpoli:v:93:y:2024:i:c:s0301420724004161
    DOI: 10.1016/j.resourpol.2024.105049
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