Research on Industrial Ecological Efficiency Evaluation and Improvement Countermeasures Based on Data-Driven Evaluations from 30 Provinces and Cities in China

Abstract

Improving industrial ecological efficiency is important in promoting the industry’s sustainable development. However, the economy, resources, the environment, and other factors should be considered. This paper proposes a data-driven evaluation and promotion method for improving industrial ecological efficiency. Based on industrial input and output data, the super-efficiency slack-based model containing an unexpected output was used to measure industrial ecological efficiency. The kernel density estimation method was employed to analyze the time-series characteristics of industrial ecological efficiency. Using data from 30 provinces and cities in China, this study demonstrated the implementation of a data-driven method. The results show that China’s overall industrial ecological efficiency is increasing, and industrial ecological efficiency in the western region is rapidly improving. Differences exist between provinces and cities; the characteristics of polarization are significant, and there are short boards in the eastern, central, and western regions. Based on this, suggestions are made to improve the industrial ecological efficiency of the central region, narrow the gaps between the regions, and promote each region to develop its strengths and mitigate its weaknesses. This provides a basis for formulating policies related to ecological environment protection and industrial pollution control.