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Factors influencing the low carbon efficiency of container ports: A spatial analysis

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  • Zhang, Jun-Qing
  • Woo, Su-Han

Abstract

Port activities are significant sources of carbon emissions and have become an ever-increasing public concern. However, existing studies generally have relatively small sample sizes and seldom focus on container ports' low carbon efficiency (CPLCE). Subsequently, this study uses a super-slack-based measure (SBM) to estimate CPLCE. Further, it uses the spatial Durbin model (SDM) to analyse the factors that affect CPLCE. The findings show that an increase in the local port's CPLCE promotes an increase in the CPLCE of neighboring ports. For all ports, reducing foreign trade dependence and increasing the industrial structure and labour population can improve the total CPLCE. These results provide empirical insights for policymakers when formulating policies to increase CPLCE.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhang, Jun-Qing & Woo, Su-Han, 2025. "Factors influencing the low carbon efficiency of container ports: A spatial analysis," Transport Policy, Elsevier, vol. 171(C), pages 256-269.
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:trapol:v:171:y:2025:i:c:p:256-269
    DOI: 10.1016/j.tranpol.2025.06.013
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    References listed on IDEAS

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