Energy efficiency, rebound effects and the environmental Kuznets Curve

Turner, K. and Hanley, N. (2011) Energy efficiency, rebound effects and the environmental Kuznets Curve. Energy Economics, 33(5), pp. 709-720. (doi: 10.1016/j.eneco.2010.12.002)

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Abstract

Technological change is one factor used to justify the existence of an Environmental Kuznets Curve, and technological improvements have been argued to be a key factor in mitigating the impacts of economic growth on environmental quality. In this paper we use a CGE model of the Scottish economy to consider the factors influencing the impacts of one form of technological change–improvements in energy efficiency–on absolute levels of CO2 emissions, on the carbon intensity of the economy (CO2 emissions relative to real GDP), and the per capita EKC relationship. These factors include the elasticity of substitution between energy and non-energy inputs, responses in the labour market and the structure of the economy. Our results demonstrate the key role played by the general equilibrium price elasticity of demand for energy, and the relative influence of different factors on this parameter.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:The research reported in this paper is supported by the UK Economic and Social Research Council under the First Grants Initiative (ESRC grant ref: RES-061-25-0010).
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Hanley, Professor Nicholas
Authors: Turner, K., and Hanley, N.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
Journal Name:Energy Economics
Publisher:Elsevier
ISSN:0140-9883
ISSN (Online):1873-6181
Published Online:23 December 2010

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