Research on the Effect of Digital Economy Development on the Carbon Emission Intensity of Agriculture

Abstract

The integration of the digital economy with the real economy has facilitated the application of a variety of digital methods in agriculture, resulting in significant reductions in its carbon intensity. This study employs a spatial Durbin model to analyze the spatiotemporal effects of digital economic growth on agricultural carbon emissions, using Chinese inter-provincial panel data spanning from 2011 to 2020. The empirical results indicate a substantial decline in agricultural carbon emissions associated with the evolution of the digital economy. Additionally, a discernible spatial spillover effect is identified. The suppressive impact of the digital economy on agricultural carbon emission intensity exhibits clear heterogeneity, with more pronounced effects observed in the main grain-producing regions and western regions. Based on these findings, recommendations are proposed to accelerate the development of digital economy infrastructure tailored to local conditions, promote the integration of digital technology and agriculture, stimulate innovation in agricultural science and technology, and advocate for the adoption of energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices.