The impact mechanism of the digital economy on the carbon neutrality process in resource-based cities and its contribution to urban SDGs

Resource-based cities (RBCs) face dual pressures from economic transformation and climate resilience building. The digital economy, as a critical driver of resource reallocation and industrial restructuring, appears to be a significant enabler. However, existing research has yet to clarify the differentiated mechanisms through which the digital economy influences carbon emission efficiency (CEE) in RBCs, as well as its responses to urban agglomeration integration and contributions to sustainable development goals (SDGs). This study examines the unique role of the digital economy in advancing carbon neutrality in RBCs by comparing the transmission mechanisms between RBCs and non-RBCs. It focuses on the differentiated impacts of urban resource security, sustainable development capacities, and integration into urban agglomeration construction on these mechanisms. Additionally, it explores the potential contributions of these mechanisms to specific indicators of SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). The results reveal that, between 2011 and 2020, China's digital economy index (DEI) for RBCs increased by 202.09%, with growth being most rapid in developing and mature cities. Overall, CEE decreased by 1.434%, except in declining cities, which achieved growth. Enhancing DEI significantly promotes the growth of CEE in resource-based cities, with this impact following a phased upward trend. Industrial structure optimization was identified as key pathways for DEI to enhance CEE, but the transmission mechanisms differed significantly across various types of RBCs. Integration into urban agglomerations indirectly enhanced the CEE of RBCs through improved energy utilization efficiency and green technological innovation. Moreover, the study confirms that the digital economy indirectly promotes the achievement of specific indicators of SDG 8, SDG 11, and SDG 15, by improving CEE, with this indirect contribution exhibiting an overall upward trend. The findings underscore the necessity and effectiveness of tailored policies and integration into urban agglomeration efforts in leveraging the digital economy to enhance the CEE and sustainable transformation of RBCs. This study also provides new evidence from China for the ongoing global debate on balancing carbon neutrality goals with the economic development needs of RBCs. • The potentiality and mechanisms of the digital economy in enhancing carbon emission efficiency (CEE) was revealed in Chinese RBCs. • Validated the contribution of integration into urban agglomeration on the indirect effects of the digital economy. • Investigated the contribution mechanism of the digital economy to achieving SDGs by promoting carbon emission efficiency.