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The economic development of N-11 countries has been significantly influenced by the contributions of natural resources (NAT) and economic globalization (EG). These countries have been facing drastic environmental problems for several years. Hence, it is imperative to ascertain the environmental ramifications of natural resource extraction activities in the N-11 nations. In doing so, this study examines the impact of gross domestic product (GDP), EG, and NAT on ecological footprints (EF) within the time frame of 1971 to 2022 in the group of N-11 countries. After verifying the cross-sectional dependence, this work found the integration of all variables at first difference. To provide short and long run econometric results; this study utilizes cross sectional autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL). The findings indicate that the presence of NAT rent has a detrimental impact (0.03%) on the ecological quality within the N-11 nations. Moreover, it can be argued that both EG and GDP exhibit environmentally sustainable characteristics over an extended period by (0.03% and − 3.12%) respectively. This study does not provide evidence for the presence of an N-shaped Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) in the N-11 nations. Based on the findings, a policy recommendation is proposed for the nations in question. These countries must immediately implement and enforce robust environmental laws while fostering a heightened sense of environmental consciousness. It is imperative for emerging economies to increase their investments to explore and adopt efficient technologies in various economic sectors, including mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research investigates the impact of financial development, digitalization, green trade, manufacturing, and national income on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of six Mediterranean countries (MEDIT-6). The study uses a nonlinear panel quantile regression model with panel data of MEDIT-6 countries from 1994 to 2022. The study asserts that higher financial development will reduce CO2 emissions for MEDIT-6 countries, as it provides more financing options to invest in green energy and potentially curb excessive energy consumption which in turn reduces CO2 emissions. The study also provides evidence that digitalization in MEDIT-6 countries has led to dematerialization, thereby reducing CO2 emissions. Digitalization makes trade and commerce platforms more efficient by facilitating the smooth flow of information and enhancing the efficiency of production processes. The positive relationship between manufacturing and national income and CO2 emissions exhibits a U-shaped pattern, which supports the existence of Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis. The study shows how the MEDIT-6 countries have been successful in promoting financial development and digitalization, which helps reduce their CO2 emissions. However, it also raises concerns for policymakers as promoting developmental activities such as manufacturing is inevitable, but it comes with environmental challenges such as higher CO2 emissions. The current study contributes to the reservoir of existing literature by providing fresh evidence from the Mediterranean region on the impact of financial development and digitalization on CO2 emissions. Highlights: • Policymakers have difficulties since encouraging developmental activities is unavoidable, but it leads to increased CO2 emissions. • Study examines the asymmetric impact of digitization and financial development on CO2 emissions of MEDIT-6 countries. • The MEDIT-6 countries have been effective in advancing digitization and financial development, which lowers their carbon footprints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies examined the association between gross domestic production (GDP) and environmental pollution to test the inverted U-shaped environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis for varied country groups. Although it has useful implications for achieving a climate–neutral world economy, the exploration of the relationship is yet limited for oil-rich economies. On the other hand, the ambiguity of the available EKC evidence addresses the consideration of other pillars of economic development. Therefore, this paper tests the EKC hypothesis comparatively in the separate non-linear effects of financial and industrial development, as well as the traditional GDP-based economic development, on per capita fossil carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) bloc. Financial development is proxied by the financial institutions development index, industrial development is measured by per capita industry value-added, and traditional economic development is indicated by per capita GDP. The trade, financial, social, and political dimensions of globalization are also incorporated as control variables in these three models. The paper applies the cross-sectionally augmented autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) estimator to a dataset from ten OPEC members over the 1980–2019 period. The results clearly contradict the EKC hypothesis and reveal rather a persistent U-shaped pattern for all models in both the short-run and the long-run. In addition, financial globalization is negatively associated and political globalization is positively associated with CO2 emissions. The paper discusses how such oil–rich countries as OPEC may decouple economic growth, financial development, and industrialization trajectories from environmental pollution induced by fossil CO2 emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the spillover of pollution among the 26 European Union (EU) countries from 1995 to 2020. In order to quantify pollution spillovers among the countries, we estimated the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) using spatial econometric methods. Our research is unique in that it investigates ecological footprint spillovers for EU countries. This study also considers the direct and indirect effects of renewable and fossil energy consumption and globalization on environmental degradation in EU countries. The empirical results favor the validity of the EKC hypothesis. Our results support the presence of positive and significant ecological footprint spillovers among EU countries. Our spatial estimates also reveal the significant spillover impact of explanatory variables on the ecological footprint. The ecological footprint of the local country is declining owing to the consumption of renewable energy in neighboring countries. Furthermore, the fossil energy consumption of the local and neighboring countries has a positive impact on the ecological footprint. Evidence obtained from our spatial estimates provides useful insights to policymakers in developing appropriate environmental policies to combat climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to examine the impact of energy poverty on the aggregate and disaggregate material footprint components such as biomass, fossil fuel, metal ores and non-metallic minerals while considering the economic growth and tourism development during 2000–2014 for the BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). By applying econometric tools, the study confirms a positive and significant impact of energy poverty on aggregate material footprint and its components. The same finding has been reached for tourism development. Moreover, this study finds a U-shaped Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) for all indicators used for material footprints. Based on the findings, this study proposes a set of policies for energy poverty alleviation to attain a sustainable environment and inclusive economic growth in the BRICS region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is motivated by the need to decouple economic growth from environmental degradation given the new wave of chase for higher economic growth trajectories comes with its environmental cost implications, especially among developing blocs like the Emerging 7 (E7) countries. There is a consistent trade-off between economic growth versus environmental quality. Government apparatus are perpetually on the chase for low-carbon emission policies via the pursuit for green economy. To this end, this present study extends the conventional environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) argument by incorporating the role of institution in emerging industrialized economies (E7) and using second-generation panel analysis methods like mean group (MG), augmented mean group (AMG), common correlated effects mean group (CCEMG), and the Dumitrescu and Hurlin causality test for more robust estimates and inferences. To this end, we explore the long-run and causality relationship between economic growth, quadratic form of economic growth, institutional quality, trade flow, investment in energy sector, and financial development in an EKC environment. Empirical analysis established a long-run equilibrium relationship among the outlined variables over the study period. The long-run regression shows the presence of EKC in the E7. Thus, suggesting the preference for GDP growth over environmental quality at the earlier stage of growth curve. Interestingly, investment in energy, trade flow dynamics across the blocs, and financial development dampens the detrimental effect of environmental pollution as we observed negative relationship with the ecological footprint. On the contrary, quality of institution is weak as institutional quality increase (worsen) the quality of environment in the E7 economies. From a policy perspective, this current study proposed the need for more stringent environmental treaties and regulations and promotion of green economy without compromising economic growth. In the conclusion part of the study, more details and specifics about the policy blueprint are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The economic development of N-11 countries has been significantly influenced by the contributions of natural resources (NAT) and economic globalization (EG). These countries have been facing drastic environmental problems for several years. Hence, it is imperative to ascertain the environmental ramifications of natural resource extraction activities in the N-11 nations. In doing so, this study examines the impact of gross domestic product (GDP), EG, and NAT on ecological footprints (EF) within the time frame of 1971 to 2022 in the group of N-11 countries. After verifying the cross-sectional dependence, this work found the integration of all variables at first difference. To provide short and long run econometric results; this study utilizes cross sectional autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL). The findings indicate that the presence of NAT rent has a detrimental impact (0.03%) on the ecological quality within the N-11 nations. Moreover, it can be argued that both EG and GDP exhibit environmentally sustainable characteristics over an extended period by (0.03% and − 3.12%) respectively. This study does not provide evidence for the presence of an N-shaped Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) in the N-11 nations. Based on the findings, a policy recommendation is proposed for the nations in question. These countries must immediately implement and enforce robust environmental laws while fostering a heightened sense of environmental consciousness. It is imperative for emerging economies to increase their investments to explore and adopt efficient technologies in various economic sectors, including mining.

Abstract The current research investigates the impact of financial development, digitalization, green trade, manufacturing, and national income on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of six Mediterranean countries (MEDIT-6). The study uses a nonlinear panel quantile regression model with panel data of MEDIT-6 countries from 1994 to 2022. The study asserts that higher financial development will reduce CO2 emissions for MEDIT-6 countries, as it provides more financing options to invest in green energy and potentially curb excessive energy consumption which in turn reduces CO2 emissions. The study also provides evidence that digitalization in MEDIT-6 countries has led to dematerialization, thereby reducing CO2 emissions. Digitalization makes trade and commerce platforms more efficient by facilitating the smooth flow of information and enhancing the efficiency of production processes. The positive relationship between manufacturing and national income and CO2 emissions exhibits a U-shaped pattern, which supports the existence of Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis. The study shows how the MEDIT-6 countries have been successful in promoting financial development and digitalization, which helps reduce their CO2 emissions. However, it also raises concerns for policymakers as promoting developmental activities such as manufacturing is inevitable, but it comes with environmental challenges such as higher CO2 emissions. The current study contributes to the reservoir of existing literature by providing fresh evidence from the Mediterranean region on the impact of financial development and digitalization on CO2 emissions. Graphical Abstract

The quality of economic growth not only increases the size of a country's economy. It also increases the capabilities of human resources and the development of a variety of technologies used in the production process, which can be explained by the Economic Complexity Index (ECI). Many countries accelerate their economic growth through the optimization of the industrial sector, but this sector is still dominated by non-renewable energy such as petroleum and coal, causing an increase in emissions including nitrogen dioxide (N2O) emissions contributed through the combustion of fossil fuels and solid waste. The analysis method Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) and Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS) panels on 18 G20 member countries from 1995-2020, and uses the concept of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) approach to see the longterm effect of ECI on N2O emissions. The results show that ECI and renewable energy variables have a significant effect in reducing emissions, while Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is not significant. The policy implication that country can encourage the increase of complex export products using eco-friendly and renewable materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analysis the influence of economic growth (EG) and energy consumption (EC) on sulfur dioxide emissions (SE) in China. Accordingly, this study explores the link between EG, EC, and SE for 30 provinces in China over the span of 2000e2019. This study also analyzes cross-sectional dependence tests, panel unit root tests, Westerlund panel cointegration tests, Dumitrescu-Hurlin (D-H) causality tests. According to the test results, there is an inverted U-shaped association between EG and SE, and the assumption of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) is verified. The signs of EG and EC in the fixed effect (FE) and random effect (RE) methods are in line with those in the dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS), fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) and autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) estimators. Moreover, the results verified that EC can obviously positive impact the SE. To reduce SE in China, government and policymakers can improve air quality by developing cleaner energy sources and improving energy efficiency. This requires the comprehensive use of policies, regulations, economic incentives, and public participation to promote sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Impact of green investments on environmental degradation is investigated. • Machine learning method is used. • An environmental degradation index is introduced using the entropy method. • Green investment reduces environmental degradation. The main objective of this study is to examine the impact of green investment on environmental degradation in developing countries using machine learning-based estimation combined with robustness tests of static and dynamic panel data modeling techniques. The scope of this study covers 30 developing countries for 2009–2019. This study introduces a new index of environmental degradation that uses the entropy method and includes green gas emissions and deforestation. The study addresses trade openness, the quadratic shape of economic growth, and urbanization in the context of the Environmental Kuznets Curve Hypothesis (EKC) and the Ecological Modernization Theory (EMT), in addition to green investment. This study considers the kernel-based regularized least squares (KRLS) approach, the static panel technique Driscoll & Kraay standards error method, and a dynamic panel technique system generalized moment techniques. The empirical findings from the machine learning method show that green investment significantly reduces environmental degradation with a higher coefficient resulting from the static fixed effect estimation. The study also reveals that the main hypotheses, such as EKC and EMT, are confirmed by all estimation techniques. Based on the results, the study recommends that policymakers take pragmatic steps toward green investments and increase the financing of green energy initiatives to combat environmental degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis in Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden) over the period 1981–2018. The link between economic growth and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is analysed. The study includes causality analysis and controls for cross-sectional dependence (CSD), slope heterogeneity, stationarity and cointegration patterns. Estimations validate the EKC hypothesis for Denmark and Iceland, but not for Norway and Sweden. Finland data show no significantly visible trend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces the innovative concept of water‐peaking theory, drawing inspiration from the theories of “peak oil” and “carbon peaking.” Employing the Environmental Kuznets Curve, Tapio's decoupling theory, and Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index decomposition, we analyze data spanning from 2006 to 2020, yielding significant findings. First, China's three industries exhibit an imbalanced structure in the utilization of water resources, necessitating the reallocation of water from the primary industry to the secondary and tertiary industries. Second, although China has not yet attained absolute water peaking, it confronts a predicament in sustainable development. Third, the primary and secondary industries demonstrate favorable decoupling of water consumption from economic growth, while the tertiary industry faces challenges in achieving historical water peaking. Fourth, drivers on the production side (technological effects, structural effects, output effects) substantially reduce water consumption across all industries, contributing to progress toward water peaking. Conversely, factors on the consumer side (population effects) play a minor role with untapped potential. This research provides valuable insights for nations worldwide in identifying historical inflection points in water resource management, pursuing sustainable pathways for industrial water usage and economic growth, and achieving environmental quality and sustainable economic development objectives. China's experiences serve as a guiding exemplar in this endeavor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the relationship between biodiversity expenditures, agriculture‐forestry‐fisheries sectors, renewable energy, economic growth, ecological footprint, and load capacity factor for The Netherlands from 1995 to 2019 in the context of the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) and load capacity curve (LCC) hypotheses. The relationship between the variables is investigated using a novel Fourier‐based Augmented ARDL approach. Our results indicate a long‐term relationship between biodiversity expenditures, agriculture‐forestry‐fisheries sectors, green energy, economic growth, and load capacity factor. In the long run, Fourier‐based Augmented ARDL results reveal that biodiversity expenditures, agriculture‐forestry‐fisheries sectors, and renewable energy do not contribute to environmental sustainability. In other words, biodiversity, renewable energy, and agriculture‐forestry‐fisheries policies implemented in The Netherlands do not improve environmental sustainability. Again, the findings confirm that the EKC hypothesis is not valid for The Netherlands, whereas the LCC hypothesis is valid. In line with the study's findings, biodiversity, renewable energy, and agriculture‐forestry‐fisheries policies in The Netherlands need to be reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving carbon neutrality is essential for environmental sustainability and should be pursued with minimal disruption to economic growth. China's recent commitment to carbon neutrality holds significant importance in current discussions. This study investigates strategies to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs), emphasizing carbon neutrality. It also examines the long-term impacts and causality between fiscal decentralization and institutional quality in relation to carbon dioxide (CO2). emissions Utilizing the quantile autoregressive distributed lag (QARDL) approach and the Granger causality in quantiles, our findings reveal a statistically negative ECM parameter across all quantiles. This indicates a stable, long-term relationship between fiscal decentralization (FDC), institutional quality (INSQ), and CO 2 emissions. The study verifies the presence of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis in China across different quantiles. In the long run, fiscal decentralization seems to increase CO 2 emissions, but robust institutional quality mitigates this impact. The Granger causality results highlight the intricate relationships among the variables. This research emphasizes the need for policymakers to bolster environmental protection and efficiency, ensuring fiscal decentralization benefits both environmental and economic agendas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals on clean and responsible energy consumption, climate change mitigation, and sustainable economic growth (UN-SDGs-7, 11–13), this study examines institutional quality (IQ)–carbon emissions nexus in the framework of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis. Six dimensions of IQ from the World Governance Indicators (WGIs) were used while focusing on Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries between 1996 and 2019. After controlling for growth, energy use, and industrialization levels, the empirical results validated the EKC hypothesis for the SSA as a unit increase in economic growth initially worsens the environment while further economic expansion eventually improves the environment. However, mixed results were obtained on the effects of IQ indicators. CO2 emissions are only substantially reduced by corruption control, regulatory quality, and the rule of law among other IQ measures. Furthermore, the causality analysis showed a unidirectional causality between growth and environmentally detrimental energy consumption levels coupled with a two-way emission-population growth causality flow as well as a two-way emissions—IQ causality channel. While economic growth, energy use, and industrialization levels undermine environmental sustainability in the SSA region via increased carbon emissions, the overall findings signal the moderating roles of IQ. Hence, the strengthening of institutions is recommended for environmental sustainability enhancement in the SSA region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study empirically explores the legitimacy of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis for four economies from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, considering the environmental quality measured by carbon dioxide emissions and national income proxied by real GDP per capita from 1980 to 2018, and employed the ARDL approach. The cointegration results reveal that there persist long-run associations among the series of interest and for each country. Results of ARDL show the validity of the EKC hypothesis for Turkey and unconventionality for the UAE in the long run, while reject its validity for Algeria, Egypt, and the UAE in the short run, and for Turkiya and UAE in the long run, while it is not valid for Algeria. Overall, the empirical estimates on the validity of the EKC hypothesis are found mixed. These empirical findings suggest to design efficient, prudent, and economically feasible environmental protection policies, whereas to start public awareness projects to improve environmental quality in order to achieve sustainable development in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the role of media (including cinema) on the CO2 emission levels of The United States of America (USA). Employing three co-integration methods, namely Canonical Co-Integrating Regression (CCR), Dynamic Least Squares (DOLS), and Fully Modified Least Squares (FMOLS), within the framework of Environmental Kuznet Curves (EKC) theory, we unravel the impact of media coverage on the USA’s carbon footprint. Utilizing Climate Policy Uncertainty index (CPU), extracted from prominent USA newspapers as a main concern, the analysis reveals a noteworthy outcome indicating media coverage pertaining to environmental issues, pollution, and climate changes emerges as a contributing factor in the reduction of CO2 emissions. The study also uses income per capita, renewable energy consumption and foreign direct investment as additional metrics of air pollution. The findings not only shed light on the influential role of media in shaping environmental outcomes but also offer valuable insights to policy makers and governors.

As societies grow and develop, pollution has emerged as a fundamental management challenge in the contemporary world. This issue holds particular significance in developing countries where economic growth and environmental quality often clash in policy-making. Urban solid waste is a prevalent form of pollution afflicting cities, including Tehran. The pivotal question is whether the production of urban solid waste increases in tandem with citizens' incomes. This article delves into the relationship between the per capita income of Tehran residents and the volume of urban solid waste they generate within the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) framework. Given that household activities directly drive municipal solid waste production, the findings of this study shed light on citizens' environmental preferences. Utilizing panel data from 2007 to 2016 across 22 districts of Tehran, the study confirms that the quadratic model hypothesis of the EKC adequately analyzes this relationship based on Wald's test. Additionally, utilizing the fixed effects method, the study demonstrates the significant impact of per capita income on waste generation. Moreover, the analysis includes population density and household size as control variables, revealing a negative correlation between population density and waste production, while the impact of household size remains statistically insignificant. Keywords: Solid Urban Waste, EKC, Panel Data, Tehran. Introduction The escalating population growth, urbanization expansion, and industrial development witnessed in recent decades have significantly elevated environmental concerns. A paramount issue among these concerns is the discharge of diverse pollutants, posing a pressing challenge for contemporary societies and garnering considerable attention from governmental entities, academia, and researchers. Waste, as a by-product of human endeavors, manifests in various dimensions and necessitates thorough examination. This study delves into the production of municipal solid waste (MSW) and its correlation with citizen income. The primary focus of this research is to scrutinize the interplay between citizens' income levels and waste generation, particularly waste directly emanating from households. The underlying research hypothesis posits that as citizens' income rises, there is an initial upsurge in consumption and subsequent waste production. However, as per capita income levels advance, it is anticipated that individuals' preferences will undergo a transformation. This evolution is envisaged to manifest as a heightened environmental conscientiousness, leading to a shift towards prioritizing environmental quality and consequently diminishing waste generation. Literature Review Within the realm of environmental economics, scholarly attention has been directed towards exploring the intricate relationship between waste generation and per capita income through the lens of the Environmental Kuznets Curve theory. This hypothesis posits an inverted U-shaped association between per capita income and environmental degradation, with a specific focus on urban solid waste within the scope of the present study. Over the recent years, the Environmental Kuznets Curve theory has been employed as a theoretical framework to elucidate the link between per capita income levels and the proliferation of diverse environmental pollutants. The term "Environmental Kuznets Curve" (EKC) was coined by (Dasgupta and Maler, 1994) owing to the resemblance of this curve to the fundamental Kuznets curve. Subsequently, (Shafik and Bandyopadhyay, 1992) posited, under the assumption of technological stability, consistent consumer preferences, and continued investment in environmental conservation, that escalating economic activities serve as a catalyst for environmental deterioration. Expounding on this notion, (Beckerman, 1992) delineated the presence of evidence showcasing environmental pollution during the early stages of economic advancement. Ultimately, Beckerman advocated for the augmentation of societal income as the paramount and most effective strategy to safeguard and ameliorate the environment. Methodology The focal point of this study revolves around the interplay between the income levels of Tehran's residents and the volume of solid waste generated by them. Urban solid waste emanates directly from household sources or urban establishments, indicative of the significant influence citizens possess over the production of this particular form of pollution. This investigation draws upon panel data encompassing 22 districts within Tehran. Specifically, the study incorporates data from the 22 districts under the purview of Tehran Metropolitan Municipality over a temporal span stretching from the year 2006 to 2016, totaling a duration of 10 years. The principal dependent variable under scrutiny pertains to the per capita quantity of waste generated by individuals, with this data sourced from official statistics released by the Municipality of Tehran through the Information and Communication Technology Organization. Results To initiate the model estimation process, the F-Limer's test was employed to ascertain the distinct impacts of individual sections. The test results unequivocally rejected the null hypothesis with complete certainty, signifying the inadequacy of assuming uniform origins across all regions. Consequently, the data conveys a nuanced perspective by embracing the notion of unique regional effects as opposed to a homogeneous data distribution. Subsequently, the Hausman test was utilized to discern the most appropriate estimation method between fixed effects and random effects. Upon a thorough examination of the statistical values within the table and the associated probabilities, it was determined that the random effect estimator should be disregarded with a probability exceeding 95%, thereby endorsing the utilization of the fixed effects method. Subsequently, the quadratic model was estimated employing the fixed effects approach. The estimated coefficients for the variables exhibit significance, barring the household dimension variable. Remarkably, the coefficient of the squared per capita income variable is not only negative but also statistically significant, underscoring the presence of an inverse U-shaped correlation between per capita income and urban solid waste production. This observation aligns with the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis, indicating that as the income of citizens in the 22 districts of Tehran rises, the initial surge in solid waste generation eventually plateaus and diminishes beyond a certain threshold. Moreover, the estimated coefficient for population density displays a negative and statistically significant relationship with urban solid waste production, elucidating that heightened population density inversely correlates with the amount of solid waste yielded by inhabitants. Discussion In specific districts within Tehran, the initiation of efforts to diminish urban waste generation has been spurred by income escalations, while in alternate areas; a decline in waste output is projected to transpire once a particular threshold of per capita income is reached. It is imperative to emphasize that these outcomes should not be construed to imply a passive reliance on income augmentation alone to address urban waste management issues, thereby underscoring the continued significance of espousing efficient policies within this domain.

Abstract This work aims to examines the effect of Chinese outward foreign direct investment (CoFDI), renewable energy, and energy intensity on CO2 emissions in 46 Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) nations divided into: Panel A, consisting of 16 European countries, and Panel B, comprising 30 Asian and MENA countries. This analysis used data from 2005 to 2018, applying second-generation econometric techniques. The empirical outcomes, obtained using Driscoll–Kraay methods, confirmed the pollution halo effect in Panel A, suggesting that FDI flows in these countries are environmentally friendly. In contrast, the results indicated a positive impact of CoFDI on CO2e in Panel B, supporting the pollution haven hypothesis that FDI may add to pollution. In addition, the study found an inverted-U-shaped association between per capita income and CO2e, validating the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis in both panels. The findings also revealed that energy intensity positively affects CO2e, whereas renewable energy has a significant negative effect in both panels, while the interaction terms of renewable and energy intensity are heterogenous in both panels. Based on these findings, the study recommends policy makers of these countries to attract clean FDI, particularly in renewable sectors, and shift from fossil fuel-based energy to renewable sources to control pollution by enacting energy-saving initiatives via lowering energy intensity.

As one of the Emerging and Growth-Leading Economies (EAGLES), Vietnam is maintaining rapid economic development at the cost of environmental degradation. However, the impact of economic growth and the role of fiscal policy tools in Vietnam’s pollution equation remains unclear. This study uses a Bayesian approach and threshold estimation to quantitatively assess the relationship between economic growth, fiscal policy tools, and environmental degradation in Vietnam from 1990 to 2021. The results indicate that tools of the fiscal policy significantly contribute to environmental degradation, with government expenditure having a greater impact than taxation. Economic growth exhibits a U-shaped relationship with degradation, implying the existence of an inverted Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis in a transitional economy. In the early stages of Vietnam’s development, characterized by an agricultural economy, economic growth positively affected the environment. However, economic growth exacerbates environmental degradation in the pre-industrialization and industrialization phases. Diagnostic tests are also applied to confirm the reliability and validity of the empirical estimates, providing valuable insights for proposed policy implications in the study.

AbstractSouth Africa’s heavy reliance on fossil fuels has posed significant challenges to environmental sustainability, primarily due to the associated climate change concerns. To combat these issues, the South African government has turned to technological innovation. However, research examining the combined impact of technology and energy use on environmental quality in the country remains scarce. This study aims to fill this gap by utilizing a novel dynamic autoregressive distributed lag (DARDL) simulation framework to analyze the influence of various factors on CO2 emissions from 1960 to 2020. Key findings include that technological innovation contributes to CO2 emission reduction over both short and long terms. The "scale effect" exacerbates emissions, while the "technique effect" mitigates them, aligning with the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis. Additionally, energy consumption, foreign direct investment, and industrial value-added have adverse impacts on environmental quality. Surprisingly, increased trade openness, despite short-term benefits, proves detrimental to the environment over the long term, supporting the pollution haven hypothesis (PHH). In light of these findings, the study emphasizes the vital role of technological innovation in achieving energy security and ecological integrity. South Africa’s government and policymakers should consider this as a clean technology source to address climate change and bolster environmental sustainability.

In order to explore the impact of natural resource rent and corruption control on environmental quality (ecological footprint, carbon emissions), this paper uses the moment quantile regression method within the framework of the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis. Based on the availability of data, the research object is positioned as the sample data of 152 countries from 2002 to 2018 to obtain more in‐depth and comprehensive research conclusions. The empirical results show that: (1) Corruption control has a significant effect on improving the ecological environment in countries and regions with poor environmental quality. The impact of natural resource rent on environmental quality remains inconclusive, when environmental quality is relatively high, natural resource rent tends to promote the increase of carbon emissions, but there is a reduction effect on the ecological footprint. For countries and regions with better environmental quality, there will be an effect of increasing resource consumption and reducing pollutant emissions. (2) Increasing the consumption intensity of energy will lead to the deterioration of environmental quality, and increasing the proportion of renewable resources will increase and weaken this impact, so it is particularly important to improve the energy consumption structure and improve environmental quality. (3) The impact of urbanization on environmental quality dose not form a unified opinion, and the difference in the selection of environmental quality indicators brings variability to the results, which also prompts the adoption of multiple indicators or the establishment of a composite index that covers multiple perspectives of environmental quality to conduct comprehensive and in‐depth research on environmental quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Load capacity and environmental Kuznets curve are tested for China. • We employed a novel dynamic autoregressive distributed lags model. • Renewable energy Electricity improves environmental Quality. • Load capacity and environmental Kuznets curve exist for China. • The study provides relevant policy implications in this regard. Climate changes are occurring faster than expected and affecting human lives through increasing carbon emissions, food scarcity and changes in global temperatures. Following this trend, China is one of the top contributors to global pollution, and at the same time, it is a leading producer of electricity production from renewable sources (ELREC). The current research examines the relationship between ELREC, research and development (REDEV), and economic growth and their impact on three environmental quality indicators: carbon dioxide emissions, ecological footprint, and load capacity factor in China from 1985 to 2018. This research is significant because it helps to identify factors contributing to the environmental deterioration in China and how they can be addressed. Using the autoregressive distributed lag and dynamic autoregressive distributed lag model, the research suggests a load capacity curve (LCC) and simultaneously tests the LCC and environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypotheses. The findings indicate that the LCC and EKC hypotheses are viable in China and that ELREC favorably influences environmental quality. Additionally, REDEV has a significant impact on environmental indicators. The findings of this research reveal, in general, that sustainable REDEV, prioritizing environmental protection, and transitioning towards renewable energy sources are crucial elements of China's green development strategy. This study's findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders working to improve environmental quality in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, annual time-series data from 1972 to 2021 are utilized to evaluate the existence of the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) in Bangladesh. The study also takes into consideration a number of other characteristics, including openness to trade, renewable energy sources, and foreign direct investment (FDI). In this work, we have used the ARDL model to analyze the cointegration of the variables using the mixed orders, or I(0) and I(1), of the variables. Zivot–Andrews demonstrate a single structural break across all variables. The ARDL bound test confirms the notion of long-term cointegration between the variables. The relationship between CO2 emissions and economic performance is inverted U-shaped. Because of the presence of the EKC hypothesis, per capita carbon emissions (PCCE) increase until a certain level of GDP per capita is reached, at which point they begin to fall. Although trade has a negative impact on the environment, the uses of renewable energy and foreign direct investment have a positive impact. The speed of adjustment toward equilibrium of this estimation is 48%. The study concludes that the best way to reduce environmental degradation is to employ renewable energy, and environment-friendly business is required to maintain sustainable development in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) has been analyzed in many studies, but none of them has focused on countries with high energy imports. COP27 reiterated that fossil fuels are the main cause of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and highlighted the importance of net-zero targets for CO2 reduction by 2050. Analyzing the determinants of CO2 emissions in countries that import a lot of fossil energy is an important issue for achieving the net-zero targets within the scope of COP27. The study therefore empirically analyzes the effects of resource rents, energy prices, urbanization, and income on CO2 emissions. To this end, the study uses second-generation panel data analyses for the top 10 energy-importing countries for the period 1990–2020. The results suggest that (i) natural resources rent and urbanization increase CO2 emissions; (ii) an increase in energy prices helps to achieve carbon neutrality goals; (iii) GDP has a U-shaped link with CO2 emissions; and (iv) the EKC hypothesis is not valid for energy import-dependent countries. These findings suggest that energy import-dependent countries should strive for COP27 goals by adopting green urbanization policies, resource rent regulation laws, and energy price adjustments in domestic markets that accompany the transition to clean energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results on the connection between financial development and CO2 emissions are presented in contradicting ways in earlier research. In order to solve this conundrum, the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) framework is used in this study to examine both the direct and indirect effects of financial development on environmental degradation. Our empirical analysis is supported by the cutting-edge dynamic ARDL simulations framework for the 1960–2020 time span in South Africa. The estimated results, which are based on five separate financial development indices, corroborate South Africa's claim that the country's financial development prevents pollution. For South Africa, we also confirm the validity of the EKC theory. The results of the indirect channels demonstrate that financial development also lessens the negative impacts of income, energy usage, trade openness, and foreign direct investment (FDI) on pollution emissions. A weak financial structure is also necessary for the viability of the polluted haven hypothesis (PHH), which is examined using trade openness and FDI variables. For each of these variables, PHH vanishes at a particular point in financial development. Last but not least, increased industrial value-added increases pollution emissions, whereas increased technical innovation decreases the former. On the basis of these findings, South Africa should offer financial incentives and tax breaks to attract green FDI and encourage investments that prioritize environmental sustainability. These incentives can include grants, subsidies, and preferential tax rates for FDI projects that align with South Africa's environmental goals. Providing a favourable investment climate for green projects can stimulate sustainable economic growth and attract responsible investors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asian countries are facing difficulties in attaining sustainable development goals (SDGs), and India is not an exception to it, with environmental degradation being one of the primary issues. Therefore, a policy-level reorientation may be required to address it. From this standpoint, fiscal policy instruments may come in handy towards fully integrating the SDGs into its agenda. The present investigation designs an SDG framework for India that could serve as an example for other Asian nations. This study introduces a new investigation exploring the relationship between fiscal policy instruments and environmental quality in India by examining the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis from 1990 to 2021. A nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) model is applied for empirical examination. The findings indicate that positive and negative shocks in fiscal policy instruments have significant impact on carbon emissions in both the long and short run. The study has also found evidence of an "inverted U-shape" EKC for India. These results are valuable from a policy perspective for India and other Asian countries to address environmental issues. The study has also outlined potential outcomes that may benefit India's fiscal policy in resolving environmental issues and attaining better economic growth. In the end, the study proposes a policy framework that supports SDG 7, SDG 8, SDG 12, SDG 13, and SDG 17 objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EKC hypothesis expresses the inverted U-shaped relationship between per capita income and environmental quality. In the literature, the role of technological innovations and income inequality on pollution is a relatively recent discussion in the studies testing the EKC hypothesis. The aim of this paper is to investigate the impact of technological innovations, income inequality, exports, urbanization, and growth on CO2 emissions in EU-27. In addition, while investigating this relationship, exports and urbanization are also considered and panel vector autoregression (PVAR) analysis is applied for the 2005–2019 period. According to the coefficient estimation results, while income inequality, exports, and urbanization increase pollution, technological innovations contribute to environmental quality. Also, the results demonstrated that the EKC hypothesis is invalid in these countries and there is a U-shaped relationship between growth and emissions. The causality test results revealed the presence of unidirectional causality running from all explanatory variables to CO2 emissions. Moreover, impulse-response graphs demonstrated that the reply of emissions to the shocks in the explanatory variables is similar to the long-run coefficient results. In conclusion, all available empirical evidence for this relationship highlights that income inequality and technological innovations should be considered in policy-making processes to ensure environmental quality in EU-27 countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims to examines the effect of Chinese outward foreign direct investment (CoFDI), renewable energy, and energy intensity on CO2 emissions in 46 Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) nations divided into: Panel A, consisting of 16 European countries, and Panel B, comprising 30 Asian and MENA countries. This analysis used data from 2005 to 2018, applying second-generation econometric techniques. The empirical outcomes, obtained using Driscoll–Kraay methods, confirmed the pollution halo effect in Panel A, suggesting that FDI flows in these countries are environmentally friendly. In contrast, the results indicated a positive impact of CoFDI on CO2e in Panel B, supporting the pollution haven hypothesis that FDI may add to pollution. In addition, the study found an inverted-U-shaped association between per capita income and CO2e, validating the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis in both panels. The findings also revealed that energy intensity positively affects CO2e, whereas renewable energy has a significant negative effect in both panels, while the interaction terms of renewable and energy intensity are heterogenous in both panels. Based on these findings, the study recommends policy makers of these countries to attract clean FDI, particularly in renewable sectors, and shift from fossil fuel-based energy to renewable sources to control pollution by enacting energy-saving initiatives via lowering energy intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the role of media (including cinema) on the CO2 emission levels of The United States of America (USA). Employing three co-integration methods, namely Canonical Co-Integrating Regression (CCR), Dynamic Least Squares (DOLS), and Fully Modified Least Squares (FMOLS), within the framework of Environmental Kuznet Curves (EKC) theory, we unravel the impact of media coverage on the USA's carbon footprint. Utilizing Climate Policy Uncertainty index (CPU), extracted from prominent USA newspapers as a main concern, the analysis reveals a noteworthy outcome indicating media coverage pertaining to environmental issues, pollution, and climate changes emerges as a contributing factor in the reduction of CO2 emissions. The study also uses income per capita, renewable energy consumption and foreign direct investment as additional metrics of air pollution. The findings not only shed light on the influential role of media in shaping environmental outcomes but also offer valuable insights to policy makers and governors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South Asia is the most polluted region in the world and is struggling to deal with the effects of growing CO2 emissions and the ecological impact it has left. The region needs to identify the variables that are most effective in reducing pollution in order to achieve long-term sustainable growth. The current study aims to investigate the environmental impacts of the current and projected urbanization rate, the service sector, and the availability of natural resources to test the environmental Kuznets-curve (EKC) theory in six South Asian countries (SAARC). With cross-sectional dependence present, this research examines panel data from 1972 to 2021 using the newly developed Driscoll Kraay Standard Error (DKSE) approach. To check the robustness of DKSE estimation, the study employs a novel Cross Sectional Autoregressive Distributive Lag (CS-ARDL) method. The results of DKSE show that GDP significantly minimizes CO2 emissions in both the short and long run. At the same time, GDP2, urbanization, and the service sector increase CO2 emissions in the South Asian region. The DKSE estimator also shows that industrialization and abundant natural resources have insignificant impacts on CO2 emissions. Inconsistent with the EKC hypothesis, the findings show that higher economic growth leads to increased environmental pollution and CO2 levels. Meanwhile, the CS-ARDL analysis found that GDP and industrialization reduce CO2 emissions, while urbanization, GDP2, and natural resource availability increase CO2 emissions. This research emphasizes the need for establishing appropriate industrialization and urbanization strategies and promoting cleaner energy adoption to reduce CO2 emissions.

BackgroundRecurrent conjunctivitis epidemics are prevalent worldwide. Aetiologies are often undetermined.MethodsWe surveyed conjunctivitis researchers about perceived trends in prevalence, incidence and aetiologies of conjunctivitis epidemics.ResultsOf the 155 participants, 7% endorsed globally variable and dynamic microbial aetiologies of conjunctivitis epidemics. Increased incidence of conjunctivitis epidemics over the last decade were reported by 21% of respondents. Peak seasons differed between the northern and southern hemispheres.ConclusionsThere is regional equipoise regarding the increasing incidence and emerging underlying aetiologies of epidemic conjunctivitis. Further investigation of global surveillance and microbial characterization of conjunctivitis outbreaks could improve prevention and outcomes.

There is a huge impact on the image quality of Micro‐OLED display in the production, which looks like a white ring or white dot under the microscope. This phenomenon is called Circular Mura in this paper. The root caucus locks in the common effect of residual sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) and the solution of ethyl ketocy clazocine (EKC) on the anode surface. Circular Mura was finally successfully solved through equipment modification and process optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The driving factors of China's industrial carbon emissions are decomposed by generalized Divisia index method (GDIM), so as to study the reasons for the change of China's industrial carbon emissions. The decoupling effect of China's industrial carbon emissions and economic growth is examined by speed decoupling and quantity decoupling. The speed decoupling is calculated by Tapio decoupling elasticity and emission reduction effort function, and the quantity decoupling is measured by environmental Kuznets curve (EKC). The results show that the positive driving factors are output size effect > industrial energy consumption effect > population size effect, and the negative driving factors are investment carbon emission effect > output carbon intensity effect > per capita output effect > economic efficiency effect > energy intensity effect. The elasticity of emission reduction is basically greater than that of energy conservation, indicating that there is still abundant room for efforts in emission reduction. The overall decoupling effect of carbon emissions is undecoupling–strong decoupling–undecoupling. Quadratic EKC shape is "U" shape, and the inflection point is 11.0987; the shape of cubic EKC is "N," and the inflection points are − 0.0137 and 2.4069, respectively, which satisfies the hypothesis of EKC curve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis is an idea that examines the inverse “U” curve relationship between environmental degradation and economic development. This study contributes to analyzing the application of EKC hypothesis in G20 participating countries, as well as the relationship between the variables of gross domestic product (GDP), foreign direct investment (FDI), population, and renewable energy on environmental degradation represented by ecological footprint variables in the same area by comparing the period before and after the implementation of the SDGs. This study uses the panel data regression method for the period 2011-2018, where data is obtained from the World Bank and the Global Footprint Network. The results show that from 2011-2018 the EKC hypothesis formed an inverted U-curve. This study also shows that before the SDGs (2015) the variables of GDP, FDI, population, and renewable energy had an effect on increasing the value of the ecological footprint. Meanwhile, after the implementation of the SDGs program, the variables of GDP, FDI, population, and renewable energy contributed to reducing the value of the ecological footprint, which indicated a decrease in people’s dependence on natural resources. Where the GDP variable has a positive and significant effect and the renewable energy variable has a negative and significant effect. While FDI and population variables have a positive but insignificant effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to global climate change, China has committed to peaking carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, commonly known as the "30–60 Dual Carbon". Under the background of "30–60 Dual Carbon", this article takes the electric power industry, which is the main industry contributing to China's carbon emission, as the research object, explores the time and peak value of the carbon peak of the electric power industry, and analyzes whether carbon neutrality can be realized under the peak method, so as to get the carbon neutrality path of the electric power industry and serve as the theoretical basis for the formulation of relevant policies. The Environmental Kuznets Curve inspection and the relationship analysis are carried out, then the system dynamics model is constructed, the carbon emissions from 2020 to 2040 are simulated, and the peak time is predicted. Three different scenarios are set to explore the path of electricity carbon neutralization under the premise of a fixed peak. It is shown that Gross Domestic Product per capita index factors have the largest positive contribution, and thermal power share index factors have the largest negative contribution to electricity carbon emissions. Based on the current efforts of the new policy, carbon emissions can achieve the peak carbon emissions' target before 2030, and it is expected to peak in 2029, with a peak range of about 4.95 billion tons. After the power industry peaks in 2029, i.e., Scenario 3, from coal 44%, gas 9% (2029) to coal 15%, gas 7% (2060), where the CCUS technology is widely used, this scenario can achieve carbon neutrality in electricity by 2060. Adjusting the power supply structure, strictly controlling the proportion of thermal power, optimizing the industrial structure, and popularization of carbon capture, utilization, and storage technology will all contribute to the "dual carbon" target of the power sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the complex interactions between the economy and the environment is crucial for promoting sustainable development and mitigating the negative impact of human activities on the Planet. The importance of this issue for Serbia is evident as the country strives to balance economic growth and environmental protection to ensure a sustainable and resilient future. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to investigate and model the relationship between CO2 emissions, economic growth, electricity consumption, and trade openness in Serbia. Initially, an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model is used to characterize the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) using data from the period from 1995 to 2019, followed by the construction of a bootstrap logistic regression model to predict environmental quality in Serbia. Long-term estimates of the model confirm an inverted U-shaped relationship, where all three variables exert a statistically significant influence on CO2 emissions. In the short run, however, a causal relationship is only observed between electricity consumption and CO2 emissions. The logistic regression results show that all three factors significantly influence environmental quality. The study proposes policy recommendations for Serbia, such as promoting sustainable economic growth, implementing long-term programs to reduce CO2 emissions, reviewing trade policies to prioritize sustainable practices, and investing in renewable energy sources to reduce emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decoupling of production activities and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, or a decline in GHG intensity, is a key metric for gauging GHG mitigation performances. In this study, we explore the determinants of GHG intensity in Canadian industries to understand its key drivers. This study is relevant, because Canada is a developed country characterized by high energy and GHG intensities. Canada has also introduced a series of policy measures to mitigate GHG emissions, including a carbon tax and investments in renewable electricity. The most significant factor for GHG intensity is energy intensity. However, fuel mix, policy trends, and sectoral shifts are essential. After conducting stationarity and cointegration tests, we estimated the relationship between GHG intensity and these determinants using panel error correction, dynamic fixed effects, and dynamic OLS methods to determine the long-run relationships. Besides the strong effect of energy intensity, we found that industrial production mix that indicates sectoral shifts, fuel mix, and the time-fixed effects that capture factors such as the introduction of a carbon tax and technology standards have statistically significant impacts on GHG intensity. We found that industries that rely more on fuel sources other than electricity are characterized by higher GHG intensity. The policy implication is that energy efficiency and fuel switching are essential for reducing GHG intensity, but the role of factors such as sectoral shifts should not be ignored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the urban panel data of central China from 2010 to 2018, the PM2. 5 in Central China is analyzed by using spatial analysis and other methods. Explore the temporal and spatial differences, spatial evolution characteristics and spatial correlation of concentration, and construct the Environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) model to test the possible EKC relationship. The results show that: ① the PM2. 5 concentration in the Central China varied widely from 2010 to 2018, and the annual average PM2. 5 concentration exhibited an overall fluctuating decreasing trend during the study period; ② the PM2. 5 concentration in the Central China exhibited a spatial distribute on that was high in the northeastern region and low in the other regions; ③ a positive spatial correlation existed between the PM2. 5 concentration and urbanization in the Central China from 2010 to 2018; ④ and there was an positive N-type EKC relationship between the PM2. 5 pollution and urbanization in the Central China. This study provides a new perspective for exploring the relationship between the PM2. 5 concentration and urbanization, an important reference for achieving environmental protection and sustainable urban development in the Central China, and guidance for relevant departments to formulate PM2. 5 reduction policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy sector represents one of the key contributors to environmental degradation. In this context, actions taken within the energy sector are paramount in the global effort to combat climate change. This study aims to investigate the impacts of renewable and non-renewable energy consumption, energy technology investment, and green technological innovation on environmental sustainability in the context of EKC and LCC hypotheses in the USA from 1980 to 2015. While many studies in the literature focus on the EKC hypothesis, this study offers a comparative analysis of the EKC and LCC hypotheses with relevant variables. For this aim, the study uses the novel Fourier estimation methods. According to the results, the EKC and the LCC hypotheses are valid in the USA. Moreover, non-renewable energy consumption increases the ecological footprint. On the other hand, non-renewable energy consumption decreases the load capacity factor while renewable energy consumption increases it. Finally, energy technology investment and green technological innovation have an insignificant impact on the ecological footprint and the load capacity factor in both models. All results except energy technology investment and green technological innovation are consistent with our expectations. The USA has the potential to realize green growth. Policymakers should support the green technological innovation process and increase green investments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analyze the effects of economic growth, energy use, renewable energy use, and environmental research and development (R&D) expenditures on CO2 emissions distributions for 30 selected OECD countries covering the years 1995 and 2018, using the panel quantile regression method developed by Koenker (2004). The findings revealed that the Environmental Kuznets Curve (ÇKE) hypothesis is valid. In addition, it shows that renewable energy use and environmental R&D expenditures reduce CO2 emissions, while energy use increases CO2 emissions. In addition, the robustness of the quantile coefficients was tested using Gaussian fixed-effect and Bayesian fixed-effects regression methods. Thus, it has been determined that the development of policies to increase environmental R&D expenditures is an important component in terms of environmental sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between economic growth and environmental degradation has been exhaustively explored from a theoretical and empirical perspective. However, most of the studies explore symmetric relationships, and none of these studies explicitly address the role of governance and financial development. Hence, this study uses both symmetric and asymmetric methods to investigate the linkage between governance, financial development, economic growth, and CO2 emissions in Pakistan over 1990–2018. The empirical findings show that governance supports environmental sustainability by reducing CO2 emissions. Moreover, adverse shocks in governance increase CO2 emissions. However, the findings of linear and nonlinear ARDL revealed that financial development increases environmental degradation by exacerbating CO2 emissions. Moreover, the results validated the Environment Kuznets Curve in Pakistan as more income reduces emissions. Our empirical results have several policy implications for environmental sustainability and sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a developing nation such as Malaysia with a significant reliance on fossil fuels for electricity, understanding the environmental consequences of this dependency is crucial. Thus, this study utilizes the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) method to explore the impact of electricity intensity (EINT), renewable energy in electricity generation (ERE), and gross domestic product (GDP) on Malaysia's environmental quality, from 1985 to 2020. By using carbon emissions (CO2 emissions) and ecological footprint (EF) as proxies, the study finds a significant long-run impact of these factors on environmental degradation. Notably, the study also observed an inverted U-shaped relationship between GDP and environmental degradation, validating the existence of Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis. The findings also imply that while electricity intensity is associated with increased emissions, the use of renewable energy (RE) sources for electricity generation may contribute to emission reduction. But the results for both variables show reversal signs on EF. The study's adoption of the fully ordinary least square (FMOLS) method reinforces the same results, thus, justifying the cointegrating relationship between studied variables. Drawing from these outcomes, the study advocates for a comprehensive approach to renewable energy management, emphasizing both its utilization and waste in order to improve ecological footprint. Moreover, the pressing need to enact legislation on energy efficiency and conservation is crucial in ensuring decoupling and securing sustainable development in Malaysia.

The aim of the paper is to examine socio-economic determinants of environmental degradation. The empirical study employs quantile regression which enables separate predictions for different levels of the dependent variable to be made. This study investigated 62 countries from low, middle and some high income countries for 1995–2019. The Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) is verified for the aforemented countries in analyzing the relationship between economic growth and carbon emissions using quantile regression. The study also revealed that the schooling rate has a pollution-increasing effect. In addition to the reducing effects of trade openness, democracy, and economic freedom variables on environmental degradation, the opposite effect of life expectancy at birth is observed, increasing environmental degradation. In this context, this paper concluded that the EKC hypothesis is not supported. The government should encourage pollution-reducing policies in low and middle income countries.