The role of information communication technologies on carbon emissions in OECD countries: new evidence from method of moments quantile approach

Abstract

This paper aims to investigate the effects of information and communication technologies (ICT) on carbon emissions (CO2) in the OECD area. For this purpose, a comprehensive panel data set is utilized covering the 1994–2018 period for 38 countries and a novel method of moments panel quantile regression model which allows to account for fixed effects and endogenous explanatory variables. Results suggest that the ICT, represented by the percentage of individuals using the Internet in the total population, contributes positively to CO2 emissions up to 0.40th quantile and has no effect after this level. The results imply that countries with relatively low per capita emissions are susceptible to the rebound effects, in which better energy efficiency results in increased demand for energy and ICT-related items, hence increasing carbon emissions. At this juncture, one policy idea would be to include a carbon tax into the per-unit purchase price of smartphones, tablets, smart gadgets, and any other relevant ICT items. Additionally, this legislation can assist decrease conspicuous consumption, which can be viewed as a trigger for the demand for ICT products. Additionally, these countries should encourage enterprises to invest in and employ energy-efficient technologies through tax incentives or subsidies.