Club convergence analysis of regional ecological efficiency in China

摘要

This paper adopts a network data envelopment analysis (DEA) model combined with a window analysis approach to evaluate the ecological efficiency (eco-efficiency) of 30 regions in China over 2000-2015. We also investigate the existence of eco-efficiency convergence clubs among these regions and analyse the important factors that drive eco-efficiency club formation. Our results reveal that, overall, Chinese regional eco-efficiency deteriorated from 2000 to 2015. We find that there is a significant regional disparity in eco-efficiency. Our convergence analysis indicates that Chinese regions converge into three eco-efficiency clubs, suggesting that common economic and environment policies might have a limited impact on promoting regional eco-efficiency and regionally-tailored policies need to be designed. Finally, we find that forest coverage, R&D expenditure and pollution punishment are important determinants of convergence club membership.