Harnessing the digital transformation for manufacturing green development quality: new insights into the role of technological innovation heterogeneity

The implementation of green and high-quality development in the manufacturing industry is to adapt to the new global development pattern, and green development requires a high level of technical support, usually requiring digital technology to enable. Utilizing digital technology to drive green innovation and transformative upgrades in manufacturing has become a key strategy for the sustainable development. Currently, a definitive conclusion about the relationship between the digital transformation and green development quality has not reached. Additionally, studies have not yet fully explored the impact mechanism of digital transformation on green development quality through technological innovation heterogeneity. To fill this void, this study systematically evaluates the level of digital transformation (DIG) based on the data of Chinese manufacturing enterprises. Based on resource-based theory, this study employs a nonlinear dynamic threshold regression model to deeply explore the impact mechanisms of DIG on the manufacturing green development quality (DEP) from the perspective of technological innovation (INO) heterogeneity. The empirical analysis results showed that the overall level of DIG remains relatively low, with significant fluctuations and disparities evident across different sectors. During the process of DIG impacting the DEP, there is a distinct INO heterogeneity threshold effect. Specifically, lower levels of sectoral INO can inhibit the impact of DIG on the DEP. However, as the level of INO in a sector increases and surpasses a critical value, DIG effectively promotes DEP. This indicates a ‘U-shaped’ relationship between DIG and DEP, there is ‘threshold effect’. This paper clarifies the diverse phenomena present in the process of DIG empowering DEP. This study provides a theoretical basis and policy reference for improving green development quality of manufacturing enterprises and promoting constant enterprise digital transformation and innovation under the Green and High-Quality Development Goals of China.