Do green energy, command and control-based environmental regulations, and green growth catalysts for sustainable development? New evidence from China

Abstract

Sustainable development constitutes a comprehensive framework that integrates various economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Within this paradigm, the environmental aspect assumes particular prominence. In this context, we focus on the relationship between pro-environmental policies and sustainable development in China, the world's largest polluter. This study examines the impact of command-and-control-based environmental regulations (CCER), low-carbon energy, and green economic growth on sustainable development in China from 1990 to 2019. Methodologically, we follow up-to-date Fourier-based econometric methods. The results show that CCER, low-carbon energy, and green economic growth positively affect sustainable development. Accordingly, we argue that pro-environmental policies in China support sustainable development efforts. We believe that China's remarkable development in low-carbon energy investments, strict environmental regulation policies, and efforts to promote green economic growth are essential factors in such an outcome. Policymakers should pay attention to environmental and energy policies that promote the clean energy sector while continuing to implement relevant policies.