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Structural Diffusion Model and Urban Green Innovation Efficiency—A Hybrid Study Based on DEA-SBM, NCA, and fsQCA

Author

Listed:
  • Fanbo Li

    (Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Macao Polytechnic University, Macao 999078, China)

  • Hongfeng Zhang

    (Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Macao Polytechnic University, Macao 999078, China)

  • Di Zhang

    (Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Macao Polytechnic University, Macao 999078, China)

  • Haoqun Yan

    (Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Macao Polytechnic University, Macao 999078, China)

Abstract

This research is based on structural theory and innovation diffusion theory, exploring the theoretical foundations and influencing factors of urban green innovation to provide theoretical support for the realization of the world’s sustainable development goals (SDGs). By using the methods of Data Envelopment Analysis with Slacks-Based Measure (DEA) non-expected model, Necessary Condition Analysis of Research Methods (NCA), and Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) in combination, the research analyzes the variables influencing the capability of urban green innovation. The study finds that the level of urban culture and absorptive capacity are necessary conditions for urban green innovation, with urban absorptive capacity having a high level of influence. The main paths for urban green innovation are a comprehensive cultural innovation path, an open cultural inclusion path, an open participation innovation integration path, and an outcome transformation to drive the innovation path. In addition, the research discovered patterns of cultural influence that go beyond institutional and resource-based structural factors, subject action processes, and transformation models guided by absorption and sustainable participation. The research results have important significance for understanding the driving factors and promotion paths of urban green innovation, providing empirical evidence for the realization of the world’s SDGs.

Suggested Citation

  • Fanbo Li & Hongfeng Zhang & Di Zhang & Haoqun Yan, 2023. "Structural Diffusion Model and Urban Green Innovation Efficiency—A Hybrid Study Based on DEA-SBM, NCA, and fsQCA," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(17), pages 1-29, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:17:p:12705-:d:1222619
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Pramukh Nanjundaswamy Vasist & Satish Krishnan, 2025. "AI’s Impact on Sustainability Targets: A Cross-Country NCA and fsQCA Study," Information Systems Frontiers, Springer, vol. 27(4), pages 1445-1470, August.
    2. Shumin Dong & Kai Liu, 2024. "Agglomeration Externalities vs. Network Externalities: Impact on Green Technology Innovation in 283 Chinese Cities," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(9), pages 1-14, April.
    3. Yana Nan & Yi Tian & Mengqi Xu & Yuping Wu, 2025. "Evaluation of green innovation capability and influencing factors in the logistics industry," Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, Springer, vol. 27(8), pages 18627-18653, August.

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