Is the Environmental Kuznets Curve Still Valid: A Perspective of Wicked Problems

Abstract

Historically, academia has paid much attention to environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) associated hypotheses, and the EKC per se has triggered conflicting reactions since first posited. Yet, all controversies seem not to have any base framework to address further pollution-related strategies. Built upon an extensive critical review of the extant EKC literature, this paper attempts to address the gap by introducing the theory of wicked problems that can be used to reframe the extant EKC research. Integrating and synthesizing the theories and empirical findings of the extant EKC literature, this paper develops a conceptual framework (a research agenda), and suggests that, given humans' bound rationality and societal uncertainties, the EKC pattern may not be valid for the situations of more wicked pollution. Mainly focusing on this type of pollution, the paper contributes to the EKC study in proposing a set of causal relationships built upon the attitudes of societal sectors. The paper points to the necessity of distinguishing the less wicked pollution situations from the more wicked ones that require different practical and academic strategies to deal with. The former can be addressed along with economic growth, and the latter requires proactive attitudes, proactive leadership, and strong organization of societal sectors. In doing so, we hope to advance the conversation surrounding EKC studies and the abatement practice adaption. Contributions of this study and future research avenues for empirical verifications of the theory are then discussed.

Impact of Banking and Financial Systems on Environmental Sustainability: An Overarching Study of Developing, Emerging, and Developed Economies

“…While some studies validate the EKC, others reject this concept. For instance, while Sarkodie and Strezov [22] in their study of three prominent developed economies reported findings that validate the EKC hypothesis using a linear model, Chen et al [23] in their study considered the model inadequate due to the bound rationality of humans. Yet, in all cases, the fact that economic development impacts carbon emissions has never been denied.…”

A comparative analysis of environmental quality and Kuznets curve between two newly industrialized economies

“…Consequently, developed countries become specialized in clean and service intensive production without changing their consumption patterns, whereas poor countries are concentrated on dirty and material-intensive production (Cole et al, 2000). This argument raises multifaceted questions about scale, composition and technique effects and income elasticity of environmental quality demand of EKC (Chen et al, 2019). Thus, the progress of technological structure would be offset when final consumption grasps pollution haven (Wagner, 2010).…”

Why People Do Not Keep Their Promise: Understanding the Pro-Environmental Behavior in China

“…Being aware of the importance of involving others in the game is the starting point for this attitude. The more systemic the sustainability challenges are, the more individuals and organizations are required to pool efforts to establish the sustainable solutions [21].…”