[Artificial Intelligence and Carbon Emission Efficiency: Evidence from Chinese Cities]

Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in achieving carbon peak and carbon neutrality goals, as well as in addressing climate change. Based on panel data of Chinese cities from 2012 to 2022, this study considers the National New Generation Artificial Intelligence Innovation and Development Pilot Zone as a quasi-natural experiment for artificial intelligence. First, the study employs propensity score matching in the difference-in-differences model, parallel test, and interaction-weighted estimation method to identify the causal effect of artificial intelligence on carbon emission efficiency. Furthermore, it explores the mechanisms through which artificial intelligence influences carbon emission efficiency and conducts a heterogeneity analysis. The results indicate that artificial intelligence significantly improved carbon emission efficiency, and this conclusion remained robust after a series of robustness checks. Specifically, artificial intelligence enhanced carbon emission efficiency by improving energy utilization efficiency and promoting green innovation. Moreover, the impact of artificial intelligence on carbon emission efficiency varied by resource endowment and location, with a more significant positive effect in non-resource-based cities and in the eastern and western regions. These findings provide policy insights for China in achieving its dual-carbon goals and promoting sustainable development.