Spatial–Temporal Evolution Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Industrial Pollution Control Efficiency in China

Abstract

The green transformation and development of industry form the foundation of sustainable development for a country’s society, economy, and environment. Industrial pollution control is one inevitable choice for all industries following the path of sustainable development. Improving industrial pollution control efficiency is also a natural requirement for reducing pollution emissions and achieving carbon peak and carbon neutrality. Based on panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2012–2018, this research applies DEA window analysis to measure the efficiency of industrial pollution control inputs and outputs, and empirically evaluates those factors influencing such efficiency. The findings demonstrate that overall industrial pollution control efficiency in China exhibits a decreasing trend from 2012 to 2018, but there are clear differences among provinces. Industrial pollution control efficiencies in the east and central regions are consistent with the national average, while said efficiencies in the west and northeast regions fluctuate in waves, with the effect of influencing factors in different regions varying significantly. Lastly, based on the results of empirical analysis, this research puts forward the optimization path to further improve industrial pollution control efficiency in China, and to provide new suggestions for its advancement.