Spatial differences, dynamic evolution, and convergence of carbon productivity in China.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Economics
• Sustainable Development
• Regional Economic Analysis

Background:

• China's transition to a green economy necessitates enhanced carbon productivity (CAP).
• Understanding the spatial dynamics and evolution of CAP is crucial for policy development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure and analyze the spatial differences and dynamic evolution of China's carbon productivity (CAP).
• To investigate the convergence characteristics of CAP across different regions in China.
• To provide insights for achieving carbon peak and neutrality goals.

Main Methods:

• Minimum distance to strong efficient frontier (MinDS) model for CAP measurement.
• Dagum Gini coefficient and kernel density estimation for spatial and dynamic analysis.
• Coefficient of variation and spatial convergence models for convergence assessment.

Main Results:

• Significant spatial disparities in CAP observed, with higher levels in the east and lower in the west.
• Inter-regional differences are the primary drivers of overall CAP variations.
• Widening trends in CAP differences across overall, eastern, central, and western regions.
• Absence of σ convergence, but presence of significant absolute β and conditional β spatial convergence.

Conclusions:

• The study provides an objective assessment of China's CAP level, distribution, and convergence.
• Findings highlight regional inequalities and widening disparities in carbon productivity.
• The results offer a data-driven reference for China's carbon neutrality strategy.