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Digitalization of the economy and sustainability of metallic mineral production

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  • Zhu, Minjing
  • Zhu, Lei

Abstract

Due to the adverse impacts of climate change on the environment and biodiversity, sustainability has become a critical issue. This paper investigates the impact of digitalization on the sustainability of metallic mineral production, particularly CO2 emissions, within the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Using data from 1998 to 2020 and the cross-sectional FMOLS technique, the study finds that a 1% increase in ICT investment reduces CO2 emissions by 0.32%, and a 1% rise in Internet access decreases emissions by 0.28%. However, electrification increases emissions due to higher energy demand and fossil fuel reliance. Economic growth and metallic resource trade volume also elevate emissions. Policy recommendations include smart urban development, sustainable rural electrification, fostering internet access, and implementing green logistics in metallic production trade to enhance sustainability in RCEP countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhu, Minjing & Zhu, Lei, 2024. "Digitalization of the economy and sustainability of metallic mineral production," Resources Policy, Elsevier, vol. 98(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jrpoli:v:98:y:2024:i:c:s030142072400672x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.resourpol.2024.105305
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Metallic resource production; CO2 emissions by metallic industry; Digital transformation; Internet access; RCEP region;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • Q32 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Nonrenewable Resources and Conservation - - - Exhaustible Resources and Economic Development
    • Q52 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Pollution Control Adoption and Costs; Distributional Effects; Employment Effects
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes
    • L86 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Information and Internet Services; Computer Software

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