Abstract

This study examines the relationship between carbon dioxide emissions, income inequality, economic growth energy use and renewable energy use in emerging market economies within the perspective of the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis using panel data analysis. Using Borghesi's (2000) study, the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis and the effects of the GINI coefficient as a measure of inequality, energy use and renewable energy on carbon dioxide emissions are estimated with panel regression models for the 2000-2017 period in emerging market economies. According to the results of the empirical analysis; it has been determined that the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis is valid in emerging market economies, so there is an inverted-U relationship between environmental degradation and economic growth. In addition, the increase in income inequality causes a decrease in carbon emissions in emerging market economies. The findings obtained are similar to other findings in the literature where different methods were applied. In this context, in addition to welfare-enhancing policies, policymakers need to implement policies that aim to reduce the pressure on the environment and turn to renewable energy sources to ensure sustainable economic growth.