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From digital to green: the effect of corporate digital transformation on pollution emission intensity

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Digital transformation is a key driver of the optimization and upgrading of China’s economic structure and a core element in the transition of China’s economic and social development towards green growth. This paper empirically analyzes the impact of corporate digital transformation on pollution emission intensity and its mechanisms. The results indicate that digital transformation significantly enhances corporate pollution emission intensity. The effect is more significant for enterprises in labor-intensive enterprises, and heavily polluting enterprises. Management efficiency, green technological innovation, and total factor productivity are important mechanisms through which digital transformation improves pollution emission intensity. This study provides empirical evidence and policy references for China to explore new paths for green and transformative development.

Source: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-026-72193-8

Authors: Bing Xu, Miao Liu, Henglang Xie, Kai Xu, Li Liang

Institutions: Shanghai Lixin University of Accounting and Finance, University of Glasgow, Universiti Putra Malaysia, China Executive Leadership Academy Pudong

Language: English

Topic: Digital Economy and Transformation

Subfield: Strategy and Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Climate action, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,690