Enterprises’ bargaining power, supervision by public opinion, and environmental regulations: Evidence from the pollutant discharge permit system of China

Key Points

• Findings indicate a strong relationship between public opinion and enterprises' compliance with environmental regulations.
• The analysis shows that increased supervision by public opinion leads to higher rates of compliance among enterprises.
• Using data from the pollutant discharge permit system, a detailed assessment of regulatory impacts was conducted.
• Results may highlight the importance of public engagement in enhancing environmental regulation enforcement.