ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRINT, GREEN INNOVATION, AND FOOD SECURITY IN CHINA: INSIGHTS FOR ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS 2000–2023

Abstract

This study examines the dynamic relationship among ecological footprint, renewable energy consumption, green innovation, and food security in China. Using provincial panel data from 2000 to 2023 and applying robust econometric techniques, including the First Difference Generalized Method of Moments (FD-GMM) and the System Generalized Method of Moments (SYS-GMM), the findings show that renewable energy consumption and green innovation significantly improve food security, while the ecological footprint exerts a negative but statistically insignificant effect. These results support the argument that economic development aligned with environmental innovation can enhance sustainable agricultural outcomes. Renewable energy contributes to food security by improving agricultural productivity, strengthening rural energy access, and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Similarly, green innovation promotes resource efficiency, technological advancement, and resilience to climate variability, thereby supporting sustainable food systems. The insignificant impact of ecological footprint suggests that policy reforms and technological progress in China are mitigating short-term environmental pressures. The results also reveal strong persistence in food security, reflecting the cumulative benefits of past investments in technology and agricultural modernization. The study highlights renewable energy and innovation as key drivers of long-term food security and ecological sustainability, with important implications for emerging economies pursuing integrated development pathways.