The impact of urban–rural integration on carbon emissions of rural household energy consumption: evidence from China

The symbiotic relationship between urban–rural integration and carbon emission reduction constitutes the fundamental objectives and impetus in China’s economic metamorphosis. The intricate interplay between urban–rural integration and carbon emission reduction represents the critical factor for the consummate achievements of China’s environmental overhaul in the forthcoming future. The current concentration of research on urban–rural integration (URI) is primarily centered on urban and agricultural production regions, while the effect of URI on carbon emissions of rural household energy consumption (CRE) being largely disregarded. Furthermore, the diversity in the effects of URI on CRE at different stages has not been considered, which could pose challenges in achieving China’s environmental sustainability objectives. To supplement the above content, this study analyzes CRE using data from 30 provinces spanning the years 2005 to 2020. By employing ordinary least squares and mediated effects analysis, we empirically examine the influence of URI on CRE. The findings indicate the following: In general, URI can significantly reduce CRE. Integration of human, land, and capital is essential factors suppressing emissions, and the suppression effect of ‘human integration’ is the strongest. The impact of URI on CRE operates through various channels, including energy consumption intensity, per capita consumption, and energy consumption structure. There exists an “inverted N” curve relationship between URI and CRE. As integration increases, carbon emissions initially decrease, then increase, and finally decrease again. Therefore, it is imperative for various regions to vigorously promote URI and effectively leverage its positive role in energy conservation and emission reduction, providing important insights for synergistically advancing urban–rural integration and energy conservation and emission reduction.