Study on the dynamic coupled coordination and influencing factors of the digital economy, energy and human habitat in Western China

Purpose This study aims to explore the spatio-temporal dynamic characteristics and influencing factors of the coordination degree of the three systems of digital economy, energy and human habitat in Western China and to provide academic research support for promoting coordinated and sustainable development in similar regions of the world. Design/methodology/approach Based on system theory and sustainable development theory, this study primarily uses the coupled coordination degree model to assess the degree of coordination between the three systems. Findings The findings of this study indicate that: The three systems’ overall coordination is low. The distribution of the degree of coordination has spatial differences and its coefficient of variation is small. The probability of the coordination type changing for the better is greater than that of the opposite, and neighboring provinces interact with one another. The old-age dependence ratio, the resident population’s urbanization rate and public budget expenditure have the strongest gray association with the degree of coordination. Practical implications This study’s findings will be valuable for policymakers in developing policies to promote the coordinated and sustainable growth of the region’s digital economy, energy and human habitat. Additionally, the findings will aid in facilitating regional exchanges and cooperation to enhance the level of sustainable development. Social implications This study’s findings will contribute to increased social interest in coordinating sustainable growth in the digital economy, energy and human habitat. Originality/value This study examines the digital economy, energy and human habitat within the same framework and investigates spatial spillover effects using spatial Markov chains.