SYNERGIZING ENERGY SECURITY, URBANIZATION, AND DECARBONIZATION IN CHINA (1990–2023): A POLICY– INNOVATION–INFRASTRUCTURE APPROACH TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

This study examines the dynamic relationship between energy security, urbanization, technological innovation, and decarbonization in China over the period 1990–2023. Using a dynamic panel framework and the System Generalized Method of Moments (SYS-GMM), the analysis evaluates how these factors jointly shape sustainable development outcomes. The findings indicate that energy security and technological innovation exert significant positive effects on decarbonization, highlighting their central role in promoting emission efficiency and supporting long-term economic sustainability. Improvements in energy diversification and innovation capacity reduce dependence on carbon-intensive resources and enhance system resilience. Decarbonization itself contributes positively to sustainability, reinforcing the effectiveness of emission reduction policies and renewable energy integration. In contrast, urbanization exhibits a negative but statistically insignificant effect, suggesting that rapid urban expansion has not been fully aligned with sustainable infrastructure and spatial planning. Diagnostic tests confirm the robustness and reliability of the estimations. The results are consistent with ecological modernization and endogenous growth perspectives, emphasizing the importance of coordinated policy, innovation, and infrastructure in achieving a low-carbon transition. The study highlights the relevance of Sustainable Development Goals 7, 9, 11, and 13 and concludes that strengthening clean energy investment and innovation-driven strategies is essential for sustainable development.