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Free Speech, Green Power: The Impact of Freedom of Expression on Renewable Energy

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  • Umut Uzar

    (Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon 61080, Turkey)

Abstract

Although there has been a growing interest in identifying the key drivers of renewable energy over the last few decades, theoretical connections and empirical evidence on the impact of freedom of expression still need to be made. Within the framework of this gap in the literature, this study tries to solve the mystery by focusing on the impact of freedom of expression on renewable energy in 20 high-income countries from 1990 to 2022. The effects of economic growth, carbon dioxide emissions, trade openness, and foreign direct investment were also examined. The evidence-based on second-generation econometric estimators such as AMG and CCEMG are consistent. Findings show that freedom of expression indicates increased renewable energy consumption. In addition, while economic growth and foreign direct investments increase renewable energy, CO 2 emissions reduce renewable energy. Trade has no significant impact. The positive link between freedom of expression and renewable energy is promising for the countries involved and presents a significant win–win opportunity. Therefore, countries need to establish democratic principles.

Suggested Citation

  • Umut Uzar, 2024. "Free Speech, Green Power: The Impact of Freedom of Expression on Renewable Energy," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(19), pages 1-21, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:19:p:8723-:d:1495103
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    2. Gamze Sart & Yilmaz Bayar & Marina Danilina, 2025. "The Effect of Economic Freedom, Indicators of Financial Sector Development, Income and Education on Renewable Energy Use: An Empirical Analysis of Post-Transition EU Member States," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(5), pages 1-19, February.

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