Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
Department of Economics, Shi.C., Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran.
Abstract
This study uses a mixed methodology (quantitative-qualitative) and panel data to examine the impact of the digital economy on green growth in the metropolitan areas of Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, Tabriz, Shiraz, and Karaj during the period 2019 to 2023. Purposive sampling was conducted based on access to complete data and geographic-economic diversity. Data were collected from reliable sources including the Statistical Center of Iran, the Central Bank, and the Environmental Protection Organization. Data analysis was conducted using the Super-SBM model for adverse environmental outcomes, the spatial autoregressive model for spatial spillover effects, and panel data regression with fixed effects. The results show that the digital economy has an impact on green growth through a 30% reduction in resource mismatch and an increase in green technology innovations. Mashhad and Isfahan performed best in this regard with GGI indices of 1.15 and 1.08, respectively, while Tehran failed to reach its full potential due to the 25% share of polluting industries (GGI=0.92). Also, the development of the digital economy in Tehran has had a positive impact on the green growth of Karaj and Islamshahr. To optimally exploit the benefits of the digital economy, it is recommended to formulate green digital transformation programs, establish green innovation funds, and design regional governance frameworks. These results can be a guide for urban policymakers in Iran and developing countries and provide new directions for future research in the field of new technologies.
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