Online media coverage, CEO green experience and corporate green innovation: evidence from Chinese heavy polluting listed companies

Purpose Existing literature on the governance and pressure effects of online media coverage has yet to reach a consensus. This study explores the impact of online media coverage on corporate green innovation. Design/methodology/approach Using data from heavily polluting listed companies in China from 2008 to 2020, this study examines the impact of media coverage on corporate green innovation and tests the moderating effect of CEO green experience through a moderation analysis model. Findings This study finds that positive media coverage has a positive governance effect, promoting both radical and incremental green innovation. Negative media coverage weakens the vitality of radical green innovation, but interestingly, it still promotes incremental green innovation. Additionally, CEO green experience also plays a positive moderating role. Originality/value This study resolves the debate in previous literature regarding the impact of media coverage on green innovation and provides valuable insights for the appointment of CEO in companies.