Impact of digital trade on tourism carbon emission reduction in China under industrial agglomeration and low carbon pilot policies

The tourism sector, being a major contributor to worldwide carbon emissions, is pivotal in the shift towards a low-carbon economy. This research utilizes systematic GMM models alongside mediation analysis to investigate the mechanisms by which digital trade (DT) influences tourism carbon emissions efficiency (TCEE). The results showed that an increase in digital trade activities leads to a significant reduction in tourism carbon emission inefficiency (ITCE), which indicates an improvement in tourism carbon emission efficiency. This negative relationship between DT and ITCE (indicating a positive effect on TCEE) is especially evident in the eastern regions. The DT affects tourism services on both the production and consumption sides, with diverse implications for TCEE. Additionally, the effects of DT on TCEE are notably moderated by factors such as industrial agglomeration and specific low-carbon pilot policies. The concentration of high-tech industries and the agglomeration of producer services amplify the adverse effects of DT and TCEE. Conversely, implementing low-carbon pilot policies enhances the potential benefits of DT and contributes to further reductions in carbon emissions. The enhancement of digital infrastructure and technological innovations in DT is all conducive to reducing TCEE. These findings offer several policy recommendations for managers seeking to promote green tourism development and the sustainable development of low-carbon industrial economies.