Energy, CO2, AQI and economic performance in 31 cities in China: a slacks-based dynamic data envelopment analysis

Abstract

Energy is vital to economic progress; however, global climate change and environmental damage have been caused by the increased need for fossil fuel resources. The rapid increase in urbanization and the associated construction projects have resulted a significant pollution, such as CO2, SO2, NO2 and particulate matter (PM2.5), which has begun to cause severe health problems and damage environments. This study used a dynamic data envelopment analysis to analyze the environmental energy, CO2, AQI (air quality index), and gross domestic product (GDP) efficiencies in 31 cities in China from 2013 to 2016. It was found that except for five cities – Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Lhasa and Nanning – that achieved efficiency scores of 1, there was significant room for improvement in urban air pollution indicator efficiencies. The AQI efficiency scores in most cities were generally significantly lower than the CO2 efficiency scores; however, the AQI was observed to have a greater impact. Therefore, emphasis needs to be placed on AQI control and governance. The average efficiency of the eastern region is better than average efficiency of the western region.