Spatio-temporal pattern evolution of green development efficiency in Northeastern China and its driving factors

Scientific analysis of green development efficiency is crucial for promoting healthy green development at home. The subjects of this study were 181 counties in three provinces in Northeast China. As a first step, the Super-SBM model is utilized to estimate the efficiency of 181 counties from 2006 to 2020; in addition, spatial autocorrelation analysis is applied to assess green development efficiency, spatially and temporally, of 181counties; and to examine the driving factors and spillover effects associated with the efficiency of 181 counties, the Spatial Durbin model (SDM) is utilized. The conclusions show that 181 counties have low levels of green development efficiency and are all on a downward trajectory. Liaoning Province has the highest level, Jilin Province has the second highest level, and Heilongjiang Province has the lowest level. According to the geographical distribution, the locations with high and very high green development efficiency are roughly located in Mohe City, Huma County, Xunke County, Daqing Municipal District, Harbin Municipal District, Changchun Municipal District, Wafangdian City, Dalian Municipal District, and Zhuanghe City. There is a favorable spatial connection of efficiency across regions, but the positive spatial agglomeration trend first diminishes and then gradually increases. Economic development, industrial structure, policy regulations, and environmental protection play significant roles in economic development, industrial structure, policy regulations, and environmental protection. The contribution of this essay is of paramount importance for understanding the status quo and potential for green development in different counties in Northeast China and for realizing coordinated regional green development.