The Impact of Digital Economy on the Green Development of Chian’s Economy

Abstract

This study, based on sustainable development theory and the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC), examines how the digital economy drives green development across 30 Chinese provinces (excluding Tibet) from 2012 to 2021. By optimizing resource allocation, improving energy efficiency, promoting industrial upgrading, and fostering green innovation, the digital economy supports sustainable growth. However, high energy consumption, environmental pollution, and regional digital disparities remain challenges, and its mechanisms and spatial spillover effects are not yet fully understood.Existing research mainly focuses on national or city levels, lacking provincial empirical analysis, while measurement frameworks often overlook environmental governance, social equity, and policy impacts. Additionally, studies on spatial spillover effects are limited. To bridge these gaps, this study develops a scientific measurement system and applies spatial econometric methods to assess the direct and spillover effects of the digital economy on green development, providing insights for theory and policy.