A Study of the Impact of Industrial Robot Application on Carbon Emissions

Abstract

Technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence, are deeply integrating with social and economic systems, making this trend irreversible. Industrial robots, born from this revolution, are reshaping industries and driving economic development towards environmental sustainability. AI has seeped into the fabric of society and economy, transforming industrial robots from mere tools to pivotal agents in promoting green, low-carbon economic transitions. Leveraging panel data from 2006 to 2019 across various industrial sectors, the empirical study reveals that industrial robots are instrumental in reducing carbon emissions and promoting a low-carbon operational framework within the industrial economy, with effects that are sustainable over the long haul. Mechanism tests indicate that human-machine coordination and energy efficiency are the primary mediating factors contributing to the emission reduction effect of industrial robots. Mechanism tests indicate that human-machine coordination and energy efficiency are the primary mediating factors contributing to the emission reduction effect of industrial robots. Heterogeneity analysis demonstrates that industrial robots exhibit a pronounced emission reduction effect in high-emission industries, low-technology industries, and smaller-scale industries. This research offers empirical support for achieving the "dual carbon" goals and provides valuable insights for policy development.