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Revisiting the determinants of CO2 emissions: The role of higher education under the extended STIRPAT model

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  • Qiang Li

Abstract

This study directly aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), i.e., SDG-13 and SDG-4. Carbon emissions (CO2e) are primarily addressed under SDG-13: Climate Action, which aims to combat climate change and its impacts. CO2e reduction efforts contribute to achieving this goal by mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. SDG 4: Quality Education aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all. It emphasizes explicitly lifelong learning opportunities and targets higher education (HE) access to improve skills for sustainable development. Therefore, the current study aims to examine the determinants of CO2e in China and the role of HE under the extended STIRPAT model. This study utilizes the Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) and Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS) methods using the time series data from 1985 to 2023. The finding shows that total population, GDP, and industry positively affect CO2e, while technological innovation and higher education negatively affect CO2e in China.

Suggested Citation

  • Qiang Li, 2025. "Revisiting the determinants of CO2 emissions: The role of higher education under the extended STIRPAT model," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 20(3), pages 1-16, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0319930
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0319930
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Paramati, Sudharshan Reddy & Mo, Di & Gupta, Rakesh, 2017. "The effects of stock market growth and renewable energy use on CO2 emissions: Evidence from G20 countries," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 66(C), pages 360-371.
    2. Ekperiware, Moses Clinton & Olatayo, Timothy O. & Egbetokun, Abiodun Adeyemi, 2017. "Human capital and sustainable development in Nigeria: How can economic growth suffice environmental degradation?," Economics Discussion Papers 2017-29, Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW Kiel).
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