Low-Carbon Logistics Efficiency Evaluation in Eastern Coastal Areas of China Based on Three-Stage DEA Model

Sustainable low-carbon logistics serves as a key driver for economic development in China’s eastern coastal regions. This study evaluates the efficiency of low-carbon logistics across 12 provinces from 2013 to 2022, incorporating both environmental and economic dimensions. The analysis begins with Pearson’s correlation tests to examine relationships between input and output variables, followed by a three-stage Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model to compute efficiency scores. After adjustment, overall comprehensive technical efficiency slightly declined from 0.811 to 0.799, while pure technical efficiency improved from 0.919 to 0.931 and scale efficiency decreased from 0.885 to 0.859. Provinces such as Hebei and Liaoning demonstrate high and stable development, whereas Beijing and Hainan are constrained by declining scale efficiency. Expanding the research scope from individual provinces to the entire eastern coastal region, this study combines a three-stage DEA model with the Malmquist index to provide both static and dynamic analysis. A scientifically constructed indicator system incorporates carbon emissions, highlighting the synergy between economic and environmental performance. A key finding is the identification of scale diseconomies as a significant constraint on regional low-carbon logistics efficiency. The results suggest that policymakers should adopt tailored strategies, prioritize targeted environmental investments, and enhance cross-regional collaboration. For corporate managers, we emphasize shifting from scale-driven expansion to technology-enabled refinement, with a focus on advancing precision in operations. These insights offer a valuable reference for promoting sustainable, high-quality, and low-carbon logistics development in other regions.