Estimating the Effects of Technology and Economic Complexity on Per Capita Carbon Emissions in Iran: A Quantile-on-Quantile Approach

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Ph.D. Candidate in Economics, Department of Economics, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

2 M.A student in Economics, Department of Economics, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

3 Associate Professor, Department of Economics, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

10.22075/jem.2025.31811.1873

Abstract

Technological innovation and economic complexity are two pivotal factors shaping contemporary social and environmental transformations. Their impact on carbon emissions—a key driver of climate change—is critically significant. This study investigates the role of technological innovation, the Economic Complexity Index (ECI), economic growth, and population density in reducing per capita carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions in Iran, employing the novel Quantile-on-Quantile Regression (QQR) modelling approach for the period 1996–2020. The statistical relationships between these variables are analysed using EViews12 and MATLAB software. Findings reveal that advancements in technological innovation and improvements in the Economic Complexity Index can lead to a substantial reduction in carbon emissions. Consequently, prioritizing policies that foster technological innovation, enhance economic complexity, and amplify their effectiveness in lowering per capita CO₂ emissions is imperative for environmental sustainability.

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