Physics Maths Engineering
Carbon emissions and low-carbon innovation in firms
Related Subjects
Abstract
Key Questions
1. How do carbon emissions influence low-carbon innovation in firms?
Carbon emissions promote low-carbon innovation by increasing pressure on firms to reduce emissions. This pressure encourages firms to invest in R&D and develop innovative solutions to address environmental challenges.
2. What mechanisms mediate the relationship between carbon emissions and innovation?
The study identifies two key mediators: carbon emissions reduction pressure and R&D investment. High carbon-emitting firms face external and internal pressures, leading to increased R&D investment, which drives low-carbon innovation.
3. Are all types of carbon emissions equally influential on low-carbon innovation?
No, the study finds that indirect carbon emissions (e.g., from purchased electricity or heat) inhibit low-carbon innovation, while direct carbon emissions (e.g., from production processes) promote it.
4. Do firm characteristics affect the impact of carbon emissions on innovation?
Yes, the promoting effect of carbon emissions on low-carbon innovation is more pronounced in firms with lower equity concentration and in high-tech firms, which are better equipped to innovate.
5. What policy implications arise from these findings?
Governments should strengthen emission reduction regulations, optimize carbon calculation systems, and support climate finance mechanisms to encourage low-carbon innovation. Additionally, excluding indirect emissions from carbon calculations could alleviate burdens on clean energy users.
