Digital infrastructure, green technology innovation, and environmental sustainability: Evidence from China’s resource-based cities

This study examines how information technology (IT) development influences the environmental sustainability (ES) of China’s resource-based cities. Using data from 1210 cities, the entropy weight method was applied to construct a digital development index, and regression models (OLS, RE, FE) were employed to estimate its impact on ES. Results indicate that IT development, particularly digital infrastructure and green technology innovation, significantly enhances ES by improving resource utilization efficiency, optimizing industrial structure, and fostering urban innovation capability. Spatial analysis (Moran’s I) reveals increasing regional clustering of digital development, while K-means clustering identifies city types with distinct digital-ES patterns. The findings highlight IT’s role as a strategic driver for green transformation in resource-dependent economies and provide policy implications for integrating digital infrastructure investment with environmental governance. This research contributes to the literature by linking digital transformation with sustainable urban transition in emerging economies. • Digital infrastructure boosts sustainability in resource-based cities. • IT improves resource efficiency and fosters green technology innovation. • Spatial analysis confirms regional clustering of digital development.