Demographic Shifts and Carbon Emissions: The Age-Driven Environmental Impact and Policy Implications

The growing concern over environmental degradation, particularly carbon emissions (CO2), has sparked interest in understanding the demographic factors contributing to this issue. This study examines the relationship between population aging and CO2 emissions, as the country is expected to become an aging society by 2030. Most of the prior research has primarily focused on economic and industrial aspects, which has left age demographic factors underexplored. To address this gap, this study discusses how the aging population influences CO2 emissions specifically via lifestyle patterns and age-specific energy consumption, drawing on existing literature. This study also employs a comprehensive literature review on the nexus between population aging and CO2 emissions. Findings uncover that the elderly significantly impact the demand for energy in the healthcare, housing, and transportation sectors. However, some studies found that the older population exerts minimal environmental pressure. Additionally, this study contributes to theory by extending the existing literature on demographic change and environmental economics, emphasizing the environmental implications of aging societies. Practically, this study highlights the need for targeted policy interventions on energy-efficient infrastructure, renewable energy adoption, and awareness programs tailored to the aging population.