Carbon Emission Reduction Effect of Digital Infrastructure: From the “Broadband China” Strategy

Abstract The establishment of digital infrastructure embodies a pivotal instrument in propelling developmental metamorphosis, whilst fostering energy preservation and emission abatement. By employing municipal-level data spanning the period from 2009 to 2019, this research establishes a quasi-natural experiment anchored upon the “Broadband China” strategy. Employing the Difference-in-Differences (DID) methodology, this inquiry thoroughly examines the influence of digital infrastructure construction on the alleviation of carbon emissions. The findings indicate that the implementation of digital infrastructure exerts a notable impact on the reduction of carbon emissions. Moreover, carbon emission reduction resulting from digital infrastructure construction exhibits distinctive characteristics of heterogeneity. The empirical evidence presented within this study serves as a fundamental cornerstone for attaining the objectives of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality.