Heterogeneity and Dynamic Improvement of Green Development Efficiency in Shaanxi Resource-Based Cities

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jmsd.202512510

Author(s)

Shanshan Huang*

Affiliation(s)

School of Information Engineering, Xi'an FANYI University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China *Corresponding Author

Abstract

To address the green-transition dilemma facing resource-based cities in the Shaanxi section of the Yellow River Basin, this study establishes an evaluation system for green development efficiency (GDE) and applies the super-efficiency slack-based measure (Super-SBM) model with undesirable outputs and the Global Malmquist–Luenberger (GML) productivity index to estimate and decompose GDE changes in six prefecture-level cities over the period 2013–2023.The findings reveal a wave-like upward trajectory of aggregate GDE. However, substantial heterogeneity exists across resource endowments and development stages: oil- and gas-type cities and mature-stage cities recorded the highest average annual GDE growth, 20.7 % and 10.9 %, respectively. Decomposition analysis indicates that technological progress accounts for approximately four-fifths of the cumulative GDE growth, whereas efficiency change contributes only one-fifth, suggesting that innovation rather than catch-up in management practices has been the dominant driver. Policy implications are threefold. First, embed city-specific GDE targets into the cadre-evaluation system to internalise environmental externalities. Second, reallocate fiscal incentives from over-capacity sectors to green-industry portfolios that integrate carbon-credit financing and circular-economy standards. Third, tighten environmental statutes and expand green-bond markets while enhancing third-party monitoring and public disclosure platforms.

Keywords

SBM model; GML Index; Green Development Efficiency; Shaanxi Resource-based City; Yellow River Basin

References

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