How Does Digitalization Affect Haze Pollution? The Mediating Role of Energy Consumption

In the context of digital technology innovation, an in-depth investigation into the impact of digitalization on haze pollution is of great significance for scientifically understanding environmental effects of digitalization and building a livable civic environment. From the perspective of energy consumption intensity and structure, this paper theoretically analyzes the direct and indirect effects of digitalization on haze pollution. On this basis, the impact of digitalization on haze pollution for 81 countries over the period 2010–2019 is empirically investigated by using the system GMM and mediating effects model. Empirical results show that digitalization can effectively suppress haze pollution, and there is significant heterogeneity in this inhibiting effect. In addition, digitalization can indirectly restrain haze pollution by reducing energy consumption intensity and optimizing energy consumption structure. The findings of this paper can provide enlightenment for countries to promote digitalization, combat haze pollution, and thus enhance the health of community residents.