Smart and Green. The uneven effects of the Twin Transition in European regions

TitleSmart and Green. The uneven effects of the Twin Transition in European regions
Publication TypeWorking Paper
Year of Publication2025
AuthorsMarrocu, E, Paci, R, Serafini, L
Number25_10
ISBN Number978 88 6851 619 2
KeywordsDigital policies, european regions, Green policies, regional economic growth, Smart Specialisation Strategy, Twin Transition
Abstract

This paper investigates the impact of digital and green programmes within Smart Specialisation Strategies on regional productivity growth across European regions. It examines the combined influence of digital and green priorities (Twin Transition) and how their effects vary according to regions’ initial economic conditions. The analysis reveals a U-shaped relationship: the Twin Transition is positively and significantly associated with productivity growth in low-productivity regions, whereas regions with intermediate productivity levels exhibit weaker or even negative associations. Conversely, high-productivity regions experience modest yet stabilising effects. These findings highlight the significance of the middle-income trap and the need for context-sensitive policy design.

Citation Key9057
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