Diffusion of Low-Altitude UAV Technology in Sustainable Development: An Evolutionary Game on Complex Networks

Low-altitude unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology serves as a crucial pathway for developing a low-carbon circular economy and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In order to achieve the diffusion of low-altitude UAV technology in sustainable development, a dynamic model of technology adoption decisions within enterprise clusters is constructed. This model is based on complex network evolutionary game theory. The present study investigates the mechanism through which government policies influence the diffusion of low-altitude UAV technology. The research findings indicate that government subsidy mechanisms and diffusion constraints play critical roles in the diffusion process of low-altitude UAV technology. Core Enterprises and Marginal Enterprises within clusters exhibit different responsiveness to subsidies, with Core Enterprises demonstrating higher sensitivity. The intensity of government subsidies is positively correlated with the diffusion rate of low-altitude UAV technology, while the penalty from constraints is negatively correlated with the diffusion rate. These findings establish a foundation for governments to devise pertinent subsidy mechanisms, establish and enhance the management system of the low-altitude economy, and cultivate a policy ecosystem conducive to the diffusion of low-altitude UAV technology, thereby propelling sustainable societal development.