The impact and spatial effect of rural revitalization on agricultural carbon dioxide emissions: a case study of Henan Province

Clarifying the influencing mechanism of rural revitalization on agricultural carbon emissions is crucial for attaining carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. This study utilized spatial econometric model, mediating effect model and dual fixed effect model to explore the influence and spatial impact of rural revitalization on carbon emissions from agricultural land by using the panel data of prefectural cities in Henan Province. Results indicate that rural revitalization exerts a notable beneficial influence on carbon emissions, as its improvement results in a rise in such emissions. Furthermore, rural revitalization demonstrates a favorable spatial spillover effect on agricultural carbon emissions in neighboring cities. Agricultural GDP and mechanical technological progress act as intermediate factors, as rural revitalization promotes carbon emissions from agriculture by fostering economic development and technological advancements. Heterogeneity analysis indicates that the correlation between rural revitalization and greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture is nonlinear, as moderate and low levels of rural revitalization promote agricultural carbon emissions, while higher levels exhibit a negative effect. Thus, rural revitalization exhibits an inflection point effect on agricultural carbon emissions.