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How Digital Technology Reduces Carbon Emissions: From the Perspective of Green Innovation, Industry Upgrading, and Energy Transition

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  • Jiangang Huang

    (Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics)

  • Xinya Chen

    (Nanjing Normal University)

  • Xing Zhao

    (Nanjing Normal University)

Abstract

The pursuit of low-carbon, environmentally sustainable development has sparked a surge of interest in studying the ways in which digital technology can play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions. Using data from 30 diverse regions in China over 12 years (2008–2019), this paper constructs a comprehensive index of digital technology development. Through empirical analysis, we investigate the influence and transmission mechanism of digital technology on reducing regional carbon emissions while also gaining deeper insight into its role under varying heterogeneous conditions. The evidence reveals that digital technology significantly contributes to reducing carbon emissions by promoting green technology innovation, upgrading the industrial structure, and optimizing the energy consumption structure. Additionally, the role of digital technology in reducing carbon emissions is heightened in areas with higher levels of economic development, more extensive environmental regulation, and greater energy intensity. In light of the above findings, this paper proposes corresponding policy suggestions.

Suggested Citation

  • Jiangang Huang & Xinya Chen & Xing Zhao, 2024. "How Digital Technology Reduces Carbon Emissions: From the Perspective of Green Innovation, Industry Upgrading, and Energy Transition," Journal of the Knowledge Economy, Springer;Portland International Center for Management of Engineering and Technology (PICMET), vol. 15(4), pages 19294-19326, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jknowl:v:15:y:2024:i:4:d:10.1007_s13132-024-01895-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s13132-024-01895-z
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