The Impact of AI Policy on Corporate Green Innovation: The Chain-Mediated Role of Industrial Agglomeration and Knowledge Diversity

Green innovation holds significant importance for achieving sustainable development goals. Artificial intelligence has emerged as the primary force behind a new wave of technological and industrial transformation. Using data on Chinese A-share listed manufacturing firms from 2012 to 2023, this study examines the influence of AI policy on corporate green innovation. A chain mediation model is used to identify and test the specific pathway through which this influence operates. The results reveal three findings: First, AI policy has a significantly positive influence on corporate green innovation. Second, industrial agglomeration and knowledge diversity serve as chain mediators, playing the role of transmitting the effect of AI policy to corporate green innovation. Third, AI policy more effectively stimulates green innovation in specific contexts, particularly among SMEs, non-SOEs, high-tech industries, and competitive sectors. This study deepens our understanding of how AI policy can promote corporate green innovation, providing important insights for advancing the coordinated development of green and intelligent manufacturing.