China's emissions trading scheme, firms’ R&D investment and emissions reduction
Publication Name
Economic Analysis and Policy
Abstract
As the world's largest energy consumer and carbon emitter, China accounts for approximately one-third of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Launched in 2021, China's national emissions trading scheme (ETS) has become a well-established market-based instrument in the country's efforts to peak CO2 emissions and achieve carbon neutrality. This study, viewed as a quasi-natural experiment, examines the impact of China's ETS pilots. We evaluate the carbon emissions reduction effects and associated mechanisms of China's pilots using a propensity score-matched difference-in-differences model (PSM-DID) and Chinese State Administration of Tax (SAT) data. The findings show that the ETS pilots have led to a 4.3% and 7.5% reduction in the carbon emissions intensity and total carbon emissions of firms, respectively. Firms in the ETS pilot regions reduce carbon emissions and intensity mainly by increasing firms’ willingness and investment in R&D. Further investigation reveals heterogeneity in carbon emissions reduction among firms of different sizes, leverage ratios, and ownership. The findings suggest that in order to fully realize the emissions reduction potential of the ETS pilots, the government should expand the range of entities covered and improve the liquidity of the carbon market.
Open Access Status
This publication may be available as open access
Volume
80
First Page
1021
Last Page
1037
Funding Number
72174056
Funding Sponsor
National Natural Science Foundation of China