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Let the Data Speak: Revisiting the Environmental Kuznets Curve in Africa

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  • Effiong, Ekpeno
  • Oisaozoje, Alex

Abstract

This paper revisits the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis and applies a flexible semi-parametric panel fixed effects technique to identify a definite shape of the income-pollution relationship for a sample of 49 African countries for the period 1990-2010. Compared with standard panel data techniques which yield different conclusions, the former reveals that the income-pollution nexus is monotonically increasing and decreasing for CO2 and PM10 emissions respectively. Hence, the effect of economic growth differs with each atmospheric pollutant; and is not sufficient for improving environmental quality. There is need for policies that emphasizes sustainable economic growth and the use of cleaner energy sources.

Suggested Citation

  • Effiong, Ekpeno & Oisaozoje, Alex, 2016. "Let the Data Speak: Revisiting the Environmental Kuznets Curve in Africa," MPRA Paper 73163, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:pra:mprapa:73163
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Environmental Kuznets Curve; Air pollutants; Semi-parametric method; Africa.;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C14 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Semiparametric and Nonparametric Methods: General
    • C33 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Models with Panel Data; Spatio-temporal Models
    • O55 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Africa
    • Q5 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics

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