International Review of Economics & Finance | 2021
Does financial structure promote energy conservation and emission reduction? Evidence from China
Abstract
Abstract This paper studies the impact of financial structure on energy conservation and emission reduction by using Chinese provincial data from 2000 to 2017. We find that the market-based financial structure can significantly reduce energy intensity and carbon emission intensity, especially in the Midwest and after the 2008 financial crisis. Meanwhile, technological progress and industrial structure upgrading are important influencing channels. In addition, the marginal impact of financial structure on energy conservation and emission reduction is in the dynamic evolution process. The study suggests that the financial structure is of great significance for energy conservation and emission reduction in China.