An empirical study on relationship between island ecological environment and socio-economic development from perspective of environmental Kuznets curve (EKC)

Abstract

Constrained by the limitations of its natural environment, the island ecosystem remains susceptible to the influence of human activities. Achieving a state of equilibrium and sustainability between the ecological milieu and regional economic growth becomes a paramount goal. To this overarching aim, the author embarked on an endeavor to assess the ecological landscape of Hainan Island utilizing the Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI) model. This appraisal was further coupled with an empirical exploration of its interplay with socioeconomic progress through a panel regression framework. The outcomes borne of this meticulous inquiry unveil a compelling dynamic: the nexus between the ecological environment and socioeconomic advancement assumes the form of a “positive N-shaped” curve. This signifies that the ecological milieu prospers in tandem with the ascent of GDP per capita up until the emergence of the first inflection point (corresponding to a GDP per capita of 18,796.01 yuan). Following this juncture, the ecological conditions start to deteriorate, only to experience a revival leading to the second inflection point (marked at a GDP per capita of 70,586.91 yuan). Moreover, it's worth noting that the variables under scrutiny in this study, with particular emphasis on the industrial structure, wield a discernible influence on the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC). In light of these findings, it is imperative that environmental regulatory authorities implement judicious strategies aimed at harmonizing economic advancement with ecological preservation. By doing so, a harmonious balance between developmental gains and environmental stability can be achieved.