The impact of China's low-carbon policies' intensity on the labor demand of listed companies

This study examines the impact of China's low-carbon policies on labor demand in listed firms, focusing on command-and-control and market-based instruments. The research integrates a comprehensive dataset spanning 2007 to 2016, comprising employment and financial data, alongside an analysis of low-carbon policy intensity from 2007 to 2022. Results from fixed-effects panel data regression indicate that both types of policies positively influence labor demand, with command-and-control policies exhibiting a slightly stronger effect. Further analysis reveals nuanced impacts on various aspects of enterprise operations, including environmental governance, R&D labor demand, and profitability. The study also highlights heterogeneity in policy effectiveness across industries, with command-and-control measures favoring high-polluting sectors and market-based measures stimulating labor demand in low-polluting industries. These findings contribute to understanding the intricate dynamics between low-carbon policies and labor markets, offering insights for policymakers and stakeholders navigating the transition towards a greener economy.