Gimba, O. J., Alhassan, A., Ozdeser, H., Ghardallou, W., Seraj, M., & Usman, O. (2023). Towards low carbon and sustainable environment: does income inequality mitigate ecological footprints in Sub-Saharan Africa?. Environment, Development and Sustainability, 25(9), 10425-10445.
Researchers from Near East University, in collaboration with scholars from Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, have conducted a comprehensive study exploring the intricate relationship between income inequality and environmental degradation in Sub-Saharan Africa from 1995 to 2018. The study employs advanced panel data techniques, notably the augmented Anderson–Hsiao (AAH) estimator, to unravel the complex dynamics between economic development, inequality, and environmental quality.
The study's groundbreaking approach, utilizing the Westerlund cointegration test and AAH estimation, revealed compelling insights. Contrary to conventional beliefs, the findings highlight that higher income inequality is associated with a decline in environmental degradation in Africa. However, this reduction comes at the expense of real economic losses, suggesting a trade-off between inequality and environmental sustainability. The study's outcomes challenge the widely acknowledged Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis in the African context.
Moreover, the research underscores critical factors influencing environmental degradation, identifying GDP per capita, population growth, and urbanization as contributors to ecological footprints. Conversely, access to electricity emerges as a significant driver in improving environmental quality. These findings emphasize the necessity for policy interventions to address the complex interplay between economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability.
In light of these groundbreaking results, the study proposes strategic policy recommendations crucial for African governments and policymakers. To bridge income disparities and mitigate environmental degradation, the study suggests targeted policies, such as subsidies and tax incentives for low-income populations. Additionally, a shift towards green growth through investments in renewable energy and sustainable production practices is recommended to counteract negative impacts on the environment caused by GDP growth.
Furthermore, policies discouraging unchecked urbanization, encouraging balanced rural-urban resource distribution, and promoting accessible renewable energy sources are advocated to reduce ecological footprints. Lastly, the study urges effective measures to control population growth and emphasizes the pivotal role of technology adoption over population expansion in driving sustainable development in Africa. By shedding light on the intricate balance between economic inequality and environmental preservation, this research aligns with several SDGs. The study's multifaceted policy recommendations provide a roadmap towards fostering equitable economic growth while ensuring environmental sustainability in Africa and globally.
For further details, access the original paper from the publisher's link:
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10668-023-03580-8
