Institutional Quality and Environmental Degradation Linkage: Asymmetric Approach for Nigeria
Abstract
This study delves into the nexus between institutional quality and environmental degradation in Nigeria from 1985 to 2022 using the Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model. Time series data from the World Development Indicators was analyzed. The findings indicate a significant short-term and long-term impact of urbanization on CO2 emissions, with increases of 0.075 and 0.834 units, respectively, for each percent rise in urbanization. Urbanization in Nigeria, driven by proximity to industries and inadequate public transport, has led to increased emissions from private vehicles, exacerbating environmental degradation. Energy consumption was found to have a substantial effect on emissions, with a 1.294 unit increase in the short term for each percent increase in energy use, reinforcing the positive correlation between energy consumption and carbon emissions. The analysis revealed that institutional quality and financial development significantly impact environmental outcomes. Improved institutional quality reduces long-term emissions despite short-term increases, whereas declining institutional quality leads to higher long-term emissions. Financial development policies aligned with environmental goals can mitigate negative impacts on emissions. The study recommends as follows: enhancing institutional quality, promoting sustainable urbanization, transitioning to renewable energy, integrating environmental considerations into financial policies, and prioritizing energy efficiency and also fostering sustainable development in Nigeria.
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