International Technology Spillover, Energy Consumption and CO₂ Emissions in China

Rihui Lei, Yabin Zhang, Sichao Wei

School of Economy & Trade, Hunan University, Changsha, China.
School of Economy & Trade, Hunan University, Changsha, China..

DOI: 10.4236/lce.2012.33007                

Abstract

Based on autoregressive distributed lag model, we empirically study the interrelationship between international technology spillover, energy consumption and CO₂ emissions by using time series data covering the period 1960-2008. The results show that international technology spillover, technology transformation and domestic R&D input cut down CO₂ emissions. R&D input has both direct and indirect effect on the reduction in CO₂ emissions. On the one hand, R&D input promotes domestic innovation and accelerates transformation, absorption and utilization of the technology from forerunners. On the other hand, R&D input reduces CO₂ emissions by rising energy efficiency. Energy consumption increases CO₂ emissions.

Keywords

Technology Spillover; Energy Consumption; CO₂ Emissions

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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