Does low-carbon policy improve the environmental performance in China?

This study examines the impacts and driving mechanisms of low-carbon policy on environmental performance, with a focus on both direct policy effects and the underlying structural drivers. Drawing on panel data from multiple regions and years, the analysis employs a combination of econometric modeling and configurational approaches to capture heterogeneous and non-linear relationships. The results indicate that low-carbon policy significantly improves environmental performance, particularly in terms of emissions reduction, energy efficiency, and pollution control. However, the magnitude and direction of these effects vary across regions depending on differences in economic development, industrial structure, and governance capacity. Further analysis reveals that technological innovation, green investment, regulatory intensity, and public participation are key driving factors that jointly shape policy effectiveness. The study also identifies multiple pathways through which these factors interact to enhance environmental outcomes, highlighting the importance of synergistic policy design. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how low-carbon goals translate into measurable environmental improvements and offer practical implications for policymakers seeking to optimize policy implementation in diverse socio-economic contexts.