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Sustainability or Economic Growth: Africa’s Green Transition

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  • Eduard Marinov

Abstract

The pursuit of sustainable development in Africa is becoming increasingly critical in light of the exacerbation of environmental vulnerabilities resulting from climate change. Despite contributing less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, the continent faces significant challenges, including droughts and energy access issues that threaten economic stability. This article examines the interdependent relationship between sustainability efforts and economic growth in Africa, proposing that a transition towards renewable energy can stimulate industrial growth and generate employment opportunities. The future prospects of the green transition in Africa are outlined, focusing on the potential of gas resources and renewable energy to combine with economic development. A SWOT analysis is employed to facilitate a systematic evaluation of the benefits and challenges associated with the green transition, with particular attention paid to the potential barriers. The article presents some policy recommendations for integrating sustainability into national strategies and urges the global community to enhance support for Africa's green transition, with the objective of achieving a resilient future.

Suggested Citation

  • Eduard Marinov, 2024. "Sustainability or Economic Growth: Africa’s Green Transition," Economic Thought journal, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences - Economic Research Institute, issue 4, pages 464-484.
    • Handle: RePEc:bas:econth:y:2024:i:4:p:464-484
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ikejemba, Eugene C.X. & Mpuan, Peter B. & Schuur, Peter C. & Van Hillegersberg, Jos, 2017. "The empirical reality & sustainable management failures of renewable energy projects in Sub-Saharan Africa (part 1 of 2)," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 102(PA), pages 234-240.
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • O55 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Africa
    • Q01 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - General - - - Sustainable Development
    • Q5 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics

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