How the Complexity of Knowledge Influences Carbon Lock-In

Based on panel data from 30 provinces in China from 2000 to 2023, this study examines the relationship between knowledge complexity and carbon lock-in. The results indicate that an increase in knowledge complexity alleviates carbon lock-in. Heterogeneity results show that the mitigating effect of knowledge complexity on carbon lock-in is more pronounced in eastern China, areas south of the Qinling–Huaihe River, regions with higher levels of infrastructure construction, lower proportion of state-owned enterprises, areas with higher government financial science and technology expenditures. In terms of the mechanisms, knowledge complexity primarily suppresses carbon lock-in through optimization of factor allocation, enhancement of efficiency levels, and upgrading of industrial structures. Further investigations reveal that knowledge complexity exhibits a significant spatial spillover effect on carbon lock-in.