The Impact of Third-Party Environmental Information Disclosure on Urban Carbon-Neutrality Technology Innovation

Abstract

The significance of carbon-neutral technological innovation is paramount for the low-carbon transformation of the economy and the attainment of dual carbon goals. This paper endeavors to explore, from the perspective of environmental information disclosure, the impact mechanism and effects of third-party environmental information disclosure policies on carbon-neutral technology innovation by utilizing matched data between cities and patents related to carbon-neutral technologies. The findings indicate that third-party urban environmental information disclosure generally enhances carbon-neutral technology innovation; however, it predominantly exerts a significant influence on promoting lowcarbon and zero-carbon technology innovations while showing no substantial effect on negative carbon technology innovations. The primary pathway through which third-party environmental information disclosure fosters carbon-neutral technology innovation is by elevating public environmental attention and improving governmental environmental governance levels. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that third-party environmental information disclosure has a more pronounced impact on carbon-neutral technology innovation in cities characterized by high economic development, resource-dependent economies, and high carbon emission pressure. Furthermore, the advancement of urban green finance plays a crucial role in amplifying the positive effects of environmental information disclosure policies on promoting carbon-neutral technology innovations. This research offers novel insights into fostering carbon-neutral technology innovation as a means to achieve dual carbon objectives.