The Expansion of High-Tech Zone Development and Regional Carbon Emissions: A Synergistic Exploration of Spatial Heterogeneity and Environmental Justice

Abstract

This study investigates the spatial relationship between the development scale of High-tech Industrial Development Zones (HTDZs) and regional carbon emissions in China. Using data from 168 national HTDZs, we construct a development index via the entropy method, and employ coupling coordination and multi-scale geographically weighted regression (MGWR) models to assess regional disparities and spatial heterogeneity. Results reveal that while advanced HTDZs achieve higher output with lower emissions, underdeveloped zones face disproportionate carbon burdens due to limited capacity. The findings highlight significant spatial injustice and carbon responsibility shifts. Policy recommendations include region-specific green support systems, emission coordination mechanisms, and enhanced governance. This research provides a scientific basis for promoting low-carbon, equitable, and high-quality development in China’s HTDZs.