The Role of ICT and Renewble Energy Consumption for Carbon Intensity: Evidence from Panel Quantile Regression Approach

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and internet use on carbon intensity across 100 countries, utilizing an extended stochastic impacts by regression on STIRPAT model with the countries panel data from 2000 to 2021 years. Employing quantile regression analysis, the findings reveal three key insights. First, ICT adoption plays a significant role in reducing carbon intensity. Second, the use of renewable energy has a negative effect on carbon intensity. Third, internet use has a negative effect on carbon intensity. The analysis also highlights the positive contributions of industrial structure and population growth to carbon intensity, underscoring the need for countries to prioritize the expansion of renewable energy. Rather than relying solely on research and development, strategic efforts to improve industrial structure are essential for mitigating carbon intensity and achieving long-term sustainability goals.

Keywords: Information and Communication Technology, Internet use, Renewable Energy Consumption, STIRPAT Model, Carbon intensity