Does the national big data comprehensive pilot zones policy improve inclusive green growth? Empirical evidence based on 285 sample cities in China

Big data technologies have become essential tools in China’s efforts to accelerate the transition to a green economy and promote sustainable growth. By analysing data from 285 prefecture-level cities in China over the period from 2014 to 2023, we apply a multi-period difference-in-differences (DID) model to assess the effects of the national big data comprehensive pilot zone policy (BDCPZ) on promoting inclusive green growth (IGG). Our findings indicate that: (1) the implementation of big data policies positively impacts IGG levels; (2) further analysis shows that the BDCPZ enhances IGG through three key mechanisms: strengthening environmental regulation, improving energy efficiency, and fostering urbanization; (3) the effect of the BDCPZ on IGG is stronger in first-tier and new first-tier cities.