Measurement and influencing factors of carbon emission efficiency based on the dual perspectives of water pollution and carbon neutrality

Abstract

The achievement of the 'Carbon Dioxide Removal’ vision has become a crucial strategic objective for national development. However, the carbon emissions produced during wastewater treatment processes hinder the attainment of the ‘Carbon Dioxide Removal’ targets. Addressing water pollution is not only essential for achieving the goal of ‘carbon dioxide removal’ but also for enhancing the carbon emission efficiency (CEE). In order to evaluate the CEE of five provinces in the Northwest of a certain developing country in East Asia from 2011 to 2020, this paper proposes a new method that calls the super-efficiency SBM model with unexpected output. Then, the study also analyzes the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics by generating kernel density curves. Furthermore, the Tobit panel regression model is used to examine the factors that influence CEE and analyze the internal mechanisms and reasons behind these factors. Finally, a tailored treatment policy is suggested based on the local water pollution situation. The results show that: (1) The CEE of the entire study area exhibited a consistent upward trend over time. By the conclusion of the study period, the efficiency value had not yet reached 1. (2) Based on the year 2015 as a turning point, the overall gap in CEE of researched areas shows a tendency of first narrowing and then gradually widening. (3) The level of economic development, industrial structure, and green innovative technology are positively correlated with CEE. Conversely, there is an inverse relationship between CEE and the level of urbanization and energy consumption. Through the research conclusion and the reality of water pollution, the policy suggestions to improve the efficiency of urban carbon emission.