How does government innovation preference influence green development? Evidence from the Yangtze River Economic Belt

Scientific and technological innovation is a critical driver of green development ( GD ), and government innovation preference ( GIP ) plays a significant role in shaping this process. This study investigates the impact and underlying mechanisms of GIP on GD using panel data from 108 prefecture-level and above cities in China’s Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB), spanning the years 2011 to 2021. The empirical results demonstrate that GIP substantially promotes GD , with its effects exhibiting notable heterogeneity across regions. This research systematically explores the dual-pathway mechanism through which GIP advances GD , identifying green technological innovation and industrial structure upgrading as key mediating channels. The findings suggest that GIP enhances green technological innovation and facilitates industrial transformation, thereby improving the overall level of GD . These insights provide valuable policy guidance for promoting regional GD and the sustainable growth of the YREB, as well as other regions and countries pursuing similar goals.