Spatial and temporal evolution of total factor productivity of low-carbon tourism industry based on DEA-Malmquist Index model

The energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions of tourism industry in China have become issues that cannot be ignored, putting pressure on the natural environment. This study uses Data Envelopment Analysis-Malmquist Index (MI) model to analyze the temporal and spatial evolution process of low-carbon tourism industry efficiency in Heilongjiang Province from 2010 to 2019. The results show that from 2010 to 2019, the technical efficiency (TE) of low-carbon tourism industry in 12 regions of Heilongjiang Province was significantly different and shows a growth trend. The pure technical efficiency (PTE) in Qiqihar, Jixi and Yichun had a more significant impact on the TE, and PTE had a greater impact on the development of low-carbon tourism economy in these regions. Hegang, Daqing, Shuangyashan, Kiamusze, Heihe and Suihua have a higher MI, and the TE has maintained a stable growth state overall.