Path to sustainable marine development: Does artificial intelligence development in coastal regions matter for green growth in the marine economy? Evidence from China
Abstract
As a new engine of economic growth, marine economy has attracted increasing global attention. With the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, its deep integration with the marine economy is becoming a critical driver of sustainable development of the marine economy. This study examined the impact of artificial intelligence on marine green total factor productivity using panel data from 11 coastal provinces in China from 2012 to 2021. Results show that: (1) Artificial intelligence has steadily increased, though with notable regional disparities. (2) During the study period, the development of China's marine economy generally went through three phases: structural adjustment and optimization, improvement in quality and efficiency, and a subsequent phase of shock-induced volatility. (3) Artificial intelligence significantly promotes marine green total factor productivity, primarily through marine industrial structure adjustment and digital inclusive finance. (4) Moderation analysis revealed a misalignment between environmental regulation and artificial intelligence in promoting marine green total factor productivity. (5) The relationship between AI and MGTFP varies due to differences in geographical location and the level of marine economic development. (6) A lag effect exists in artificial intelligence's impact on marine green total factor productivity. The study recommended accelerating artificial intelligence development in China's coastal regions to support green and sustainable development of China's marine economy.