Analyzing the mechanism of spatial–temporal change of green total factor productivity in Yangtze Delta Region of China

Excessive energy consumption and air pollution problems have long been posting considerable adverse effects on the development of the economy and society. The Yangtze Delta Region (YDR) is one of China's economic centers with high population concentrations. Hence, it is essential to study the efficiency of the green total factor productivity (GTFP) in this region. This paper uses data from the Chinese City's Census Yearbook and applies data development analysis (DEA) with time windows and Tobit model to analyze the mechanism of the spatial and temporal changes in the GTFP in the Yangtze Delta Region. Based on the input-oriented DEA model and approaches used in existing research, we incorporate sulfur dioxide as an input variable in the analysis. Our study indicates that there are significant regional differences in GTFP among regions within YDR: GTFP levels are higher in areas that have higher economic development levels and the mountainous regions with better ecological environment. However, GTFP levels are lower in locations that have been experiencing rapid economic growth, especially in areas experiencing industrial shifts. No obvious spatial correlation between GTFP and GDP was found. The mean annual GTFP values for all cities over the study years show a reduction trend with volatility characteristics. The dynamic of the GTFP is tied to the changes in local industrial structures. In general, the decrease in heavy industries seems to increase the levels of GTFP, and vice versa. In this regard, we suggest improving the technical levels and changing the industrial structure for achieving higher GTFP.