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Human Capital and Environmental Sustainability Nexus in Selected SADC Countries

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  • Kin Sibanda

    (Department of Economics, Faculty of Commerce and Administration, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha 5117, South Africa)

  • Dorcas Gonese

    (Department of Economics, Faculty of Management and Commerce, University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa)

  • Rufaro Garidzirai

    (Department of Management, Faculty of Management Sciences, Walter Sisulu University, Butterworth 4960, South Africa)

Abstract

This paper sought to examine the nexus between human capital and environmental sustainability in Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries. This contemporary topic has not received much attention in the region, hence the need to investigate the nexus between human capital and environmental sustainability. The paper used one of the most recent methodologies, namely, the pooled mean group (PMG) estimation technique, to assess this relationship from 1980 to 2021. The findings of the study are that human capital increases environmental sustainability in the long run in SADC countries. This implies that as human capital increases, countries will see an increase in technological innovations and research and development (R&D), enabling the mitigation of environmental degradation in the region. Therefore, it is imperative for the region to embark on human capital programs that improve environmental sustainability.

Suggested Citation

  • Kin Sibanda & Dorcas Gonese & Rufaro Garidzirai, 2023. "Human Capital and Environmental Sustainability Nexus in Selected SADC Countries," Resources, MDPI, vol. 12(4), pages 1-16, April.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jresou:v:12:y:2023:i:4:p:52-:d:1125873
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