Illuminating the contributions of fintech, mineral resources, and foreign direct investment in alleviating environmental issues: An empirical analysis

Abstract

The present study uncovers the complex relationship of financial technology (Fintech), mineral resources, and foreign direct investment with carbon mitigation by considering twenty economies in the Middle Eastern and North African region. Employing the CS-ARDL model, we meticulously account for time-invariant characteristics and distill the net impact of these key factors on carbon emissions. Our analysis spans the two-decade period from 2000 to 2020 and the robust empirical findings illuminate a promising way forward to mitigate environmental challenges for the region under consideration. Notably, according to the results, mineral resources emerge as a linchpin in promoting clean energy adoption across the selected economies and ultimately helping to control carbon emissions. Furthermore, fintech and FDI both are significant sources of increased funds availability for environmentally friendly projects and those emerging as catalysts for accelerating clean energy adoption and achieving carbon mitigation targets in the region. In short, our study underscores the pivotal role played by fintech, mineral resources, and FDI inflow in shaping the energy landscape for a clean environment. The study suggests that improvement in fintech promotes access to capital, promotes sustainable development, fosters knowledge and wise use of mineral resources, and ultimately helps to improve environment quality. In conclusion, this study offers valuable policy recommendations to empower policymakers in charting the sustainable use of mineral resources and advancing the fintech future for a healthy natural environment for the MENA region.