Effects and Transmission Mechanism of Low-carbon Pilot Policies on Urban Eco-efficiency

This study aims to evaluate the impact of low-carbon policies on urban ecological efficiency, particularly in the context of promoting coordinated development in cities. Our analysis focused on 280 Chinese cities from 2006 to 2019. We employed the super-efficiency SBM model to measure ecological efficiency and utilized a combination of difference-in-differences (DID) models, including progressive DID and PSM-DID methods, for policy effect analysis. This approach was further strengthened by baseline assessments, matching regression, control group criteria, and event study methodology. Our findings reveal that low-carbon policies significantly enhance urban ecological efficiency, with technological innovation playing a pivotal mediating role. The effectiveness of these policies varied across regions, showing more pronounced results in eastern cities compared to western ones. Additionally, cities with lower initial environmental quality were found to be more responsive to these policies. Conclusively, this research underscores the vital role of low-carbon policies in fostering sustainable and coordinated urban development, providing crucial insights for effective policy implementation and environmental management.