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Industrial agglomeration, technological innovation and air pollution: Empirical evidence from 277 prefecture-level cities in China

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  • Song, Yan
  • Zhu, Jing
  • Yue, Qian
  • Zhang, Ming
  • Wang, Longke

Abstract

Based on the panel data of 277 prefecture-level cities in China, this paper empirically analyzes the relationship between industrial agglomeration and air pollution, and the mediating effect of technological innovation by using dynamic spatial panel Durbin model and mediation effect model. The results show that: (1) there is a typical N-shape curve relationship between industrial agglomeration and air pollution, that is, there is a moderate agglomeration interval in which industrial agglomeration can restrain air pollution. (2) Technological innovation is a mediator variable of industrial agglomeration affecting air pollution. Industrial agglomeration not only has a direct impact on air pollution, but also has an indirect impact on air pollution through technological innovation. The non-linear mediating effect is reflected in the typical U-shape curve relationship between technological innovation and air pollution. (3) Air pollution and technological innovation have strong time-space dependent effects.

Suggested Citation

  • Song, Yan & Zhu, Jing & Yue, Qian & Zhang, Ming & Wang, Longke, 2023. "Industrial agglomeration, technological innovation and air pollution: Empirical evidence from 277 prefecture-level cities in China," Structural Change and Economic Dynamics, Elsevier, vol. 66(C), pages 240-252.
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:streco:v:66:y:2023:i:c:p:240-252
    DOI: 10.1016/j.strueco.2023.05.003
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