Based on the data of carbon dioxide emissions in 31 provinces from 2017 to 2021, the spatial distribution characteristics of carbon dioxide emissions in provinces were studied in detail. Then, the spatial econometric model was used to empirically analyze the driving factors influencing carbon dioxide emissions.The results are as follows :(1) the overall development trend of carbon dioxide emissions in the provinces is uneven. The carbon dioxide emissions in the western region rise rapidly, while the carbon dioxide emissions in the eastern and central regions do not change significantly, and the two-level differentiation phenomenon gradually weakens.(2) The carbon dioxide emissions have obvious spatial agglomeration characteristics, and the carbon dioxide emissions of neighboring provinces are correlated, and gradually change to the trend of regional balanced development of carbon emissions.(3) The increase in the proportion of secondary industry and coal consumption are important factors driving carbon dioxide emissions. Regional economic development, regional technological upgrading and foreign direct investment can effectively reduce carbon dioxide emissions and improve environmental quality.