The impact of artificial intelligence on corporate greenwashing: evidence from the New Generation of Artificial Intelligence Innovation and Development Pilot Zones Policy

This study employs the New Generation of Artificial Intelligence Innovation and Development Pilot Zones Policy (AIE policy) as a quasi-natural experiment to examine how firms deploy strategic greenwashing in the context of environmental information disclosure. A multi-period difference‑in‑differences model is utilized to assess the dynamic changes in firms’ greenwashing intensity before and after the AIE policy came into force. The results indicate that the AIE policy significantly contributes to reduced greenwashing levels. This inhibitory effect primarily operates by enhancing firms’ AI strategic orientation and AI technological capabilities. Notably, the suppressive effect is more pronounced for state‑owned enterprises, firms in heavily polluting industries, and those located in the eastern regions. This study concludes that an integrated environmental information disclosure regime linking policy, strategy, and technology is critical for corporate green transformation and high-quality development. The findings provide empirical support for synergistic environmental and AI policies while revealing how state-led emerging-tech initiatives reshape firms’ non-market strategies and disclosure ethics.