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The integration of the digital economy and the real economy (IDR) plays a pivotal role in achieving sustainable economic development. Using panel data from Chinese A-share listed companies from 2011 to 2022, this study empirically explores the influence of IDR on corporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. Results indicate that higher IDR levels significantly enhance ESG practices. The mechanism analysis demonstrates that IDR strengthens firms’ absorptive, adaptive, and innovative capabilities, which in turn improves ESG practices. Under the ‘Technology-Organization-Environment’ (TOE) framework, executives’ information technology backgrounds, strong customer relationships, and advanced digital finance amplify IDR’s positive impact on ESG. This study contributes to understanding the micro-level implications of IDR and offers practical insights for advancing sustainable corporate transformation.
Wang et al. (Wed,) studied this question.