The effects of energy use, economic growth, and rural population growth on CO2 emissions in North African Countries

Abstract

Air pollution can harm health. The consumption of non-renewable resources and economic activities cause pollution. Carbon dioxide emissions are commonly used as a measure of environmental degradation in previous research. Carbon dioxide emissions are on the rise in most countries, especially emerging ones. This environmental issue has raised concerns, prompting this study to examine how fossil and renewable energy consumption and economic growth affect carbon dioxide emissions. Another independent variable, rural population growth, also affects carbon dioxide emissions after stability and security in the study area, which was previously threatened by terrorism, especially in Algeria. This allowed for the return of populations to their original areas. Data from 1990 to 2021 in North African countries was analyzed using the ARDL model. The study concluded that increased fossil energy consumption and rural population growth could lead to increased carbon dioxide emissions over time. However, economic growth does not affect carbon dioxide emissions, while renewable energy consumption reduces carbon dioxide emissions. These findings are critical for policymakers in formulating policies. Renewable energy should replace fossil energy, which will reduce carbon dioxide emissions.