Does income inequality validate the environmental Kuznets curve? Evidence from ASEAN-6

Nurrachmi, Rininta and Duasa, Jarita (2026) Does income inequality validate the environmental Kuznets curve? Evidence from ASEAN-6. International Journal of Green Economics, 20 (3). pp. 251-274. ISSN 1744-9928 E-ISSN 1744-9936

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Abstract

This paper investigates the validity of the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) theory affected by income inequality and the impact of income inequality, economic growth, population density, and energy use on environmental degradation in ASEAN. For this purpose, we utilise the biased corrected least squared dynamic variable (LSDVC) estimation approach using the sample of ASEAN-6 countries from 1992 through 2015. The finding confirms that the existence of EKC theory is affected by income inequality in the short and long term. It indicates that economic growth has different effect on the environment at different stages of development. Moreover, the outcome also emphasises that widening income inequality drives more environmental degradation in ASEAN-6 countries. Meanwhile, economic growth and energy use significantly impact the changes in environmental degradation. Hence, the member states of ASEAN should address unequal income distribution in the region with more consistent efforts and support to maintain environmental quality.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	income inequality; environmental degradation; EKC theory; LSDVC
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HB Economic Theory H Social Sciences > HB Economic Theory > HB131 Methodology.Mathematical economics. Quantitative methods H Social Sciences > HB Economic Theory > HB3711 Business cycles. Economic fluctuations
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Economics and Management Sciences > Department of Economics Kulliyyah of Economics and Management Sciences
Depositing User:	Prof. Dr. Jarita Duasa
Date Deposited:	06 Jul 2026 16:27
Last Modified:	06 Jul 2026 16:27
Queue Number:	2026-06-Q3766
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/129476

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