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The impact of network relationships on green innovation and industrial growth: Evidence from China's production and technological interdependencies

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  • Sun, Qingyu
  • Li, Chuandong
  • Ma, Xiaowei

Abstract

This study examines how production and technology networks jointly influence industrial growth and green technological innovation. Using Chinese provincial input–output tables and patent citation data, incorporating both relational and structural embeddedness, we construct three network interdependencies: production interdependencies in production networks, technological interdependencies in production networks, and technological interdependencies in technology networks. The results show that production interdependencies promote industrial growth but have limited effects on green innovation, while technological interdependencies in production networks significantly stimulate green innovation. Technological interdependencies in technology networks have minimal effects on production; however, when combined with higher structural hole occupancy, they substantially enhance green innovation and reduce total, clean, and fossil energy intensities. Further analyses reveal that upstream substantive green innovation and knowledge accumulation in green technology networks are key drivers of green transformation. By integrating dual networks, this study uncovers their systemic role in coordinating growth, green innovation, and sustainable energy restructuring, provides new insights into the mechanisms linking production and technology networks, and offers practical references for economies seeking to advance green innovation within complex industrial and technological systems.

Suggested Citation

  • Sun, Qingyu & Li, Chuandong & Ma, Xiaowei, 2026. "The impact of network relationships on green innovation and industrial growth: Evidence from China's production and technological interdependencies," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 222(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:tefoso:v:222:y:2026:i:c:s004016252500407x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techfore.2025.124376
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