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Climate change and environmental degradation: Evidence from SADC countries

Author

Listed:
  • Olanrewaju Adewole Adediran
  • Samuel Olanrewaju Binuomote
  • Sotja Graham Dlamini
  • Daniel Vusanani Dlamini
  • Joshua Olusegun Ajetomobi
  • Binganidzo Muchara
  • Adedolapo Kemi Ajala

Abstract

The study investigated the effect of climate change on environmental degradation in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries. Using data sourced from the World Bank indicator from 1990 to 2024, the study constructed indices for climate change and environmental degradation using principal component analysis. The study employed Robust Standard Error Estimation in the Pooled Ordinary Least Squares and Fixed-Effects Panel models to examine the study objectives. However, for the sensitivity analysis, the study used a Driscoll-Kraay Standard Error (DKSE) and Panel-Corrected Standard Errors (PCSE) estimators to control for cross-sectional dependence and model heterogeneity. The results revealed that climate change significantly negatively affects the environment and trade openness. A variety of climate hazards critically expose 30% of the SADC region to environmental degradation driven by greenhouse gas emissions, and this may significantly reduce crop productivity without adaptation, especially for cereals. In conclusion, the SADC countries desperately need integrated policies and strategies that promote adaptation and mitigation of climate change, renewable energy, and reduced environmental pollution.

Suggested Citation

  • Olanrewaju Adewole Adediran & Samuel Olanrewaju Binuomote & Sotja Graham Dlamini & Daniel Vusanani Dlamini & Joshua Olusegun Ajetomobi & Binganidzo Muchara & Adedolapo Kemi Ajala, 2026. "Climate change and environmental degradation: Evidence from SADC countries," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 21(4), pages 1-22, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0346018
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0346018
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Joakim Westerlund, 2005. "New Simple Tests for Panel Cointegration," Econometric Reviews, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 24(3), pages 297-316.
    2. Dieudonné Mignamissi & Bernard Nguekeng, 2022. "Trade openness-industrialization nexus revisited in Africa," Economic Change and Restructuring, Springer, vol. 55(4), pages 2547-2575, November.
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