Abstract

In addressing the pressing challenge of carbon emissions, digital development emerges as a pivotal solution. This study examines data from 30 Chinese provinces spanning 2010 to 2019, employing an intermediary effect model to establish a theoretical framework linking technological innovation, carbon emissions, and the digital economy. Our empirical analysis reveals several key findings: (1) Both digital economy and technological innovation exert a positive influence on enhancing carbon productivity, with the impact of the former significantly surpassing that of the latter. (2) Innovation acts as a crucial intermediary variable, facilitating the transmission of the digital economy's impact on China's carbon productivity. (3) The impact of the digital economy on carbon productivity varies across regions, with the most pronounced effects observed in eastern provinces.