Convergence Analysis of Outdoor Air Pollution for Nitrogen Dioxide for 179 Countries
Gachon Center of Convergence Research Working Paper Series, 2018-06
37 Pages Posted: 23 Aug 2018
Date Written: July 3, 2018
Abstract
Using yearly nitrogen dioxide pollution measures in parts per billion for 179 countries during 1979 to 2011, this research examines whether the convergence process of catch-ups has taken place among countries in both total as well as in multiple subgroups of countries. All four income subgroups and six regional subgroups displayed their convergence of catch-ups in support of the catch-up process displayed by the total group. The most important finding is that the subgroups with lower NO2 pollution levels did display three to five times faster speed of catch-ups in comparison to the subgroups with higher NO2 pollution. Policy Implications to these findings will be discussed.
Keywords: NO2 Pollution, Catch-Up Effect, σ Convergence, γ Convergence, Speed of Catch-Up
JEL Classification: Q53
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation