Spatiotemporal dynamics and drivers of multidimensional carbon emission eco-efficiency: A case study of Guangdong Province, China.

Abstract

How to control carbon emissions on the basis of ensuring economic development and human well-being has gradually become a hot topic of research. Regional carbon emission eco-efficiency (CEE) is critical for achieving low-carbon development, yet existing studies lack integrated frameworks addressing socio-ecological dimensions. This study constructed a "Risk-Equity-Load-Quality" assessment framework to study the spatiotemporal patterns (2000-2020), influencing factors and clusters of regional CEE, using Guangdong Province as a case study. Results reveal: (1) CEE in Guangdong Province exhibits distinct spatiotemporal heterogeneity, characterized temporally by a decreasing trend followed by positive improvement and a spatial clustering pattern where high-efficiency zones encircle the low-efficiency Pearl River Delta (PRD) region. (2) The economic development level is the main driving factor for improving CEE, followed by industrial structure and environmental friendliness indicators. (3) The county units of Guangdong Province can be divided into five clusters, such as "1-REQ" and "2-RL". The PRD region should take the initiative to reduce emissions through technological revolution. These findings provide targeted and actionable guidance for the formulation of sustainable development policies in the region.