Can R&D Intensity Reduce Carbon Emissions Intensity? Evidence from China

Among the ways to reduce carbon emission intensity (CEI), increasing of research and development (RDI) plays an important role in process. In China, how RDI reduces CEI has attracted widespread attention. Most scholars have not considered spatial effects study correlation between CEI; therefore, this paper uses panel data 30 Chinese provinces from 2007–2019 as a sample explore on using measures, analyzes regulatory market government process interaction effect model, explores mediating industrial upgrading, technological innovation human capital model. The empirical results illustrate that: (1) significant positive autocorrelation. clustering characteristics obvious regional differences. (2) local area while it same reducing surrounding areas. conclusion is robust. (3) play facilitating that affects CEI, but there are (4) can indirectly by promoting improving innovation, capital. Finally, according conclusions, put forward policy suggestions: strengthen cooperation, guide funds into field, improve business environment, promote train relevant talents. content findings enrich theories related influence certain implications for future based perspective.