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Linking energy vulnerability to environmental sustainability in Africa: An ecological footprint approach

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  • Liu, Yufeng
  • Nguea, Stéphane Mbiankeu

Abstract

Energy vulnerability critically threatens environmental sustainability across fossil fuel-dependent African economies. This study investigates the relationship between energy vulnerability and ecological footprint in 22 African countries from 2000 to 2019. Employing CUP-FM, CUP-BC, and panel quantile regression methods, the results demonstrate that energy vulnerability significantly stimulates ecological footprint, underscoring its pivotal role in environmental degradation. Additionally, economic growth, trade openness, democratic governance, and population growth emerge as key drivers of ecological footprint expansion. Causality analysis confirms a bidirectional link, revealing energy vulnerability as a catalyst for environmental deterioration. Our findings underscore the urgency of transitioning to renewables, scaling energy-efficient infrastructure, and fostering sustainable consumption to disrupt the energy-environment vulnerability cycle.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Yufeng & Nguea, Stéphane Mbiankeu, 2026. "Linking energy vulnerability to environmental sustainability in Africa: An ecological footprint approach," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 259(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:259:y:2026:i:c:s0960148125026692
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.125005
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