Collaboration network structure and green innovation efficiency of manufacturing firms: the mediating roles of technological niche overlap and breadth

Abstract

How to enhance green innovation efficiency (GIE) leveraging collaboration network structure (CNS) has become critical to the success of manufacturing firms. Therefore, this study aims to explore the relationship between network structural factors (accessibility, interconnectedness and independence) and GIE, as well as their underlying mechanism and boundary conditions. Using panel data from Chinese listed manufacturing firms between 2005 and 2021, this study examines the impacts of three dimensions of CNS – network accessibility, interconnectedness and independence – on GIE. It also tests the mediating effects of technological niche overlap (TNO), technological niche breadth (TNB) and the moderating effect of environmental regulation (ER). This study proves that network accessibility and independence boost GIE, which are partly mediated by TNO and TNB. Furthermore, ER amplifies positive effects of network accessibility and independence on TNO, TNB and GIE. This study broadens the existing literature on green innovation and collaboration by clarifying the roles of multidimensional network structures in promoting GIE. The authors open the black box between CNS and GIE by proving the mediating roles of TNO and TNB, plus the moderating role of ER. The findings impart valuable insights for decision-makers on how to harness network effects and orchestrate resources in technological niches to achieve optimal green innovation outcomes.