Executives with Environmental Experience and Corporate Environmental Performance: Evidence from China’s A-Share Listed Companies

Abstract

Based on the data of China’s A-share listed companies from 2008 to 2021, this article explores the impact and mechanism of executives with environmental experience on corporate environmental performance (CEP) and finds that executives with environmental experience significantly improve CEP. The heterogeneous analysis shows that the improvement effect of executives with environmental experience on CEP is more significant in non-state-owned enterprises, non-heavy-polluting enterprises, and enterprises in regions with higher levels of marketization. The mechanism test shows that important channels for executives with environmental experience to improve CEP include attracting green investors, promoting green innovation, and obtaining government environmental subsidies. Further analysis shows that under the governance of executives with environmental experience, the improvement of CEP is conducive to strengthening corporate social responsibility and enhancing enterprise value. The research conclusions provide direct evidence for improving CEP and achieving sustainable development for enterprises and society.