Performance evaluation and driver analysis of pollution control and carbon reduction in China: based on a new...

This paper introduces a new indicator-pollution control and carbon reduction performance (PCCR) by non-radical directional distance function. We provide a solution method of DEA to measure PCCR in Chinese cities from 2006 to 2019 and study the driving factors of PCCR from both internal and external perspectives. The results are as follows. (1) PCCR has shown a stable period before 2015 and an upward period after 2015. The performance is the highest in the east, followed by the middle, and the west. Cities above sub-provincial level are generally more efficient than ordinary cities. (2) Technology-driven and efficiency-driven are key factors for improving PCCR. The importance of carbon reduction-driven is greater than that of pollution control-driven for improving PCCR. (3) Environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis is verified as there is a "U" relationship between economic development and PCCR. Industrial structure, urbanization, and fiscal expenditure promote PCCR, while foreign direct investment and human capital have no significant effect on improving PCCR. Economic growth pressure inhibits the improvement of PCCR. (4) Energy productivity, renewable energy technology, and low-carbonization of energy structure promote PCCRP, PCCRC, and PCCR.