Coupling analysis of carbon emission intensity and high-quality economic development in the Yangtze River Basin and its driving factors

Abstract This study explores the interplay between carbon emission intensity (CEI) and high-quality economic development (HQED) in the Yangtze River Basin (YRB) from 2010 to 2019. Employing methods like entropy weight topsis and coupling coordination degree model (CCDM), it analyzes 108 cities in the YRB. The results present as follows: (i) CEI in the YRB is declining; (ii) HQED shows a ‘V’-shaped pattern with low synergy; (iii) the coupling coordination degree (CCD) between CEI and HQED has spatial disparities; (iv) energy intensity (EI), structure of industry (IS) and other factors affect the CCD. Given these findings, relevant policies are proposed.