Investigation of Industrial Structure Upgrading, Energy Consumption Transition, and Carbon Emissions: Evidence from the Yangtze River Economic Belt in China

Shuang Guo and Xiaodong Yan ()
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Shuang Guo: Business School, Hohai University, Nanjing 211100, China
Xiaodong Yan: Business School, Hohai University, Nanjing 211100, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 10, 1-30

Abstract: The Yangtze River Economic Belt, a key growth driver in China, faces energy-carbon challenges. Analyzing the impact of industrial restructuring on energy transition and emission reduction is crucial for its low-carbon transformation. This study first analyzed the spatiotemporal patterns of carbon emissions, energy intensity, and energy structure decarbonization across YREB provinces from 2005 to 2021, then quantified the impacts of industrial upgrading on these dimensions by using a spatial Durbin model with panel data, revealing spatial heterogeneity and mechanisms. Results show that: (1) a U-shaped relationship exists between industrial upgrading and both energy intensity and energy structure decarbonization, while it significantly lowers regional emissions; (2) heterogeneity analysis indicates the emission reduction effects of industrial upgrading intensify toward downstream regions, with energy transition being pivotal for mid-upstream mitigation. Accordingly, region-specific strategies are proposed: upstream areas should prioritize high-carbon energy substitution, ecological compensation, and technological support; midstream regions should adopt targeted policies for green industrial relocation and energy efficiency enhancements to accelerate upgrading; downstream areas should leverage innovation incentives and service-driven industrial restructuring. This study provides theoretical foundations for tailored regional strategies and actionable insights for achieving the YREB’s low-carbon development goals.

Keywords: energy consumption; decarbonization level of energy consumption structure; carbon emissions; industrial structure upgrading (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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