Exact Eco-Efficiency Measurement in the Yellow River Basin: A New Non-Parametric Approach

Frontier-based approaches to eco-efficiency measures have long been controversial because no normative definition is provided. Previous studies used technical efficiency, environmental and other variables as a proxy. To standardize its definition, we propose formal indicator, the ratio of actual gross domestic product (GDP) impact potential GDP impact. quantify it, develop biennial meta-frontier non-radial directional distance function (BMNDDF), which addresses threats technology heterogeneity, slack variable, linear programming infeasibility. Using this new assess city-level in Yellow River Basin from 2008 2017 identify harmonious relationship between ecological protection economic development. The empirical results show 5.73% increase per year, with leadership effect main contributor. Because central region defined by heavy emissions many underdeveloped cities, it suffers more severe conflicts outputs than regions.