Journal of Policy Analysis and Management · 2026 · Y H Xiao、Qi Wang、Fan Xia、Bing Zhang
中文摘要
先进技术的采用通过提升各行业的数据收集能力与准确性,变革了监管执法。然而,这些技术进步也带来了数据可靠性方面的新挑战,因为受监管企业拥有更优的技术控制能力,能够生成有利但不准确的读数。本文通过分析中国在连续排放监测系统 (CEMS) 内部署的数据质量控制系统 (DQCS),考察第三方审计在应对这些挑战方面的效果。我们发现,DQCS 的引入显著遏制了数据操纵行为,并提升了数据真实性。与此同时,随着数据真实性的改善,报告的排放浓度有所上升,这表明此前存在大量少报。此外,我们观察到污染物浓度随后出现下降,且这种污染减排转化为可测量的环境空气质量改善。我们的研究凸显了独立审计在确保数据完整性方面的关键作用,尤其是在技术密集型的监管环境中。中国政府在 CEMS 框架内将数据核验制度化的努力,为强化环境数据的可信度提供了有益启示。
Abstract
ABSTRACT The adoption of advanced technologies has transformed regulatory enforcement by enhancing data collection and accuracy across industries. However, these technological advancements have introduced new challenges in data reliability, as regulated firms possess superior technical control to generate favorable but inaccurate readings. This paper examines the effects of third‐party auditing in addressing these challenges by analyzing China's deployment of the data quality control system (DQCS) within the continuous emission monitoring system (CEMS). We find that the introduction of DQCS significantly restricts manipulations and improves data authenticity. Meanwhile, reported emission concentrations increase with data authenticity improvement, suggesting substantial prior underreporting. Furthermore, we observe a subsequent decline in pollutant concentrations, and this pollution reduction translates into measurable improvements in ambient air quality. Our study highlights the critical role of independent auditing in ensuring data integrity, especially in technology‐intensive regulatory settings. The Chinese government's efforts to institutionalize data verification within the CEMS framework provide valuable insight into strengthening the credibility of environmental data.