The convergence test of transformation performance of resource cities in China considering undesirable output

The main challenge for sustainable development of resource cities is to work out a feasible strategy for transformation processes. This paper introduces a new approach for analysis of transformation performance. Using the environmental production technology and a Malmquist resource performance index (MRPI), we conduct σσ, absolute ββ and conditional ββ convergence tests for the transformation performance of 21 resource cities in China. The results show that MRPI does not follow the same trend as economic strength of three Chinese regions. In addition, the transformation performance results exhibit a convergence trend for the 21 resource cities.

► Undesirable output is taken into account in MRPI by EPT.
► MRPI results show a different trend as economic strength for three Chinese regions.
► The transformation performance of 21 resource cities shows a convergence trend.