Does the "10-Point Water Plan" reduce the intensity of industrial water pollution? Quasi-experimental evidence from China

The Action Plan for Water Pollution Prevention and Control (i.e., the "10-Point Plan") is a regulation formulated by China to prevent control water pollution ensure China's safety. To test policy effect of Plan", we use data from 269 cities period 2012 2017 examine whether implementation plan can help reduce intensity industrial pollution. results show that in Central Western significantly higher than other regions, Plan" reduces China. We further find upgrading structures technological innovation are effective ways ameliorate In terms spatial heterogeneity, impact on reducing smaller areas with high environmental low intensity. also strong inhibitory regulations Our findings support positive provide significant implications prevention actions countries.