Hongchao Li;Shunjiang Nie;

• 1:School of Economics
• 2: Yunnan Minzu University
• 3:School of Management
• 4: Yunnan Minzu University

Abstract：

Currently, the digital economy is booming, and digital transformation of enterprises, as an important component and micro manifestation, plays an important role in promoting the performance of enterprises in environmental, social, and governance aspects. Using panel data from Chinese A-share listed companies from 2017 to 2021, this study empirically examines the impact and mechanism of digital transformation on ESG performance, as well as the moderating effect under internal and external collaborative governance. The research results indicate that: firstly, digital transformation of enterprises will significantly improve their ESG performance. Secondly, the analysis of the impact mechanism indicates that digital transformation of enterprises can indirectly promote ESG performance by promoting corporate structure optimization, improving green innovation capabilities, and reducing inefficient investment; Thirdly, the analysis of regulatory effects shows that the promotion effect of digital transformation on ESG performance is more significant in enterprises with weak internal governance and strong external supervision. There is a partial substitution effect between digital transformation and internal governance, and collaborative governance with “loose internal and tight external” is more likely to maximize the effectiveness of digital transformation in enterprises. This “abnormal” phenomenon overlaps with the company's regulations rather than continuity Different priorities and traditional beliefs and cultures are related. In addition, digital transformation has a significant effect in promoting balanced regional development. The robustness test indicates that the research conclusion is reliable. The study, from the perspective of digital transformation, provides theoretical support and empirical evidence to promote enterprises to better fulfill their ESG responsibilities and implement the “dual carbon” goals.

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Authors: Hongchao Li;Shunjiang Nie;

References：

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