Economic growth and methane emission: testing the EKC hypothesis in ASEAN economies

Purpose The purpose of this study is to analyze the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis within the methane (CH 4 ) emission–economic growth nexus among the six Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries from 1985 to 2012. Design/methodology/approach The study employs dynamic panel data estimation approaches such as mean group (MG) and pooled MG (PMG) techniques. Findings The findings reveal that the EKC hypothesis for the CH 4 emission in these economies proves to be valid. In other words, economic growth causes CH 4 emissions to decrease. Nevertheless, energy consumption is deteriorating the environment by enhancing CH 4 emissions in these countries. Originality/value The ASEAN region has experienced substantial economic growth over the previous few decades. Nevertheless, pollution has also increased manifolds in this region. Methane is a more potent greenhouse gas (GHG) as compared to carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) and a major source of socio-economic issues in the ASEAN region. This study is the first in the existing literature on the EKC hypothesis examining the role of economic growth on CH 4 emissions in the selected ASEAN countries. The outcomes of this study could be really beneficial for the policymakers in this region regarding sustainability and economic development.

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