Spatial Evolution and Regional Disparities Measurement and Decomposition of Green Development Efficiency in China’s Eight Economic Zones

Yanling Tang, Ningning Wang and Hao Ding ()
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Yanling Tang: China University of Petroleum, School of Economics and Management
Ningning Wang: Weifang Science and Technology Innovation Promotion Center
Hao Ding: China University of Petroleum, School of Economics and Management

A chapter in Proceedings of the 2025 3rd International Academic Conference on Management Innovation and Economic Development (MIED 2025), 2025, pp 564-574 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract This study analyzes the spatial and temporal evolution of green development efficiency (GDE) in China’s eight comprehensive economic zones from 2011 to 2021. Using an improved Super-SBM Data Envelopment Analysis model that includes undesirable outputs, the study measures regional GDE accurately. The Theil index is used to assess and decompose regional disparities within and between these zones. Results show that GDE increased nationwide, with clear spatial differences: central China leads, followed by eastern, and then western regions. The Middle Yellow River zone experienced the most significant improvement, reaching the highest efficiency by 2021. Eastern China, the Middle Yangtze River, and Northwest zones lag behind with considerable potential for growth. The Theil index indicates that overall regional disparities in GDE have declined, mostly due to shrinking differences within regions. However, since 2019, disparities between regions have slightly increased. Northern China has the largest internal efficiency gap, mainly because of uneven provincial development. Policy recommendations include improving national green policies, increasing investments in green technology and industry, and enhancing regional collaboration tailored to local strengths. These actions can help achieve more balanced and sustainable green development across China’s diverse economic zones.

Keywords: Green development efficiency (GDE); Super-efficiency SBM Model; Eight economic zones; Theil Index (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.2991/978-94-6463-835-6_60

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