Robots play a key role in the manufacturing industry by automating production lines. This study focuses on examining how integrating robots enhance green economic efficiency in manufacturing. We utilize the NDDF model to compute the unified efficiency index (UEI), serving as the core explanatory variable to measure green economic efficiency. Through the application of OLS, 2SLS, Tobit, and IV-Tobit methods, we demonstrate that robots can significantly promote labor productivity, improve capital utilization, and reduce environmental pollution risks. Specifically, a one standard deviation increase in robot installation corresponds to a 29.20% increase in UEI relative to the mean. However, in high energy-consuming and pollutant industries, robots have a limited effect on energy efficiency and emission reduction due to complex production processes and diverse emission sources. Our findings help to provide a theoretical basis to inspire increased investment and promotion of robotics in industrial production, fostering the development of green economy.