Which Factor Dominates the Evolution of Green Transformation System of Resource-based Enterprises? Evidence from China

The green transformation of resource-based enterprises, as a complex systemic endeavour, has lacked in-depth exploration of the driving paths and evolutionary patterns of the system. Therefore, we analyse the formation mechanism and framework of the green transformation system of resource-based enterprises (GTSRE). Moreover, drawing on the practical experiences of representative provinces in central and western China from 2008 to 2019, the Haken model and evolutionary orderliness model are employed. The results show that the formation of GTSRE is a coupling and interactive behaviour that arises from the comprehensive consideration of the enterprises and the regions based on their respective development needs and capabilities. The evolution of the GTSRE does not have a completely consistent evolutionary process. Its evolution follows a driving path characterized by government regulation promotion–market green guidance–green technological innovation. The degree of influence of driving factors varies with the developmental stages. The evolution pattern of GTSRE in central and western regions shows significant gaps both within and between regions, and there is a further trend towards expansion.