Mineral resource rents, fintech technological innovation, digital transformation, and environmental quality in BRI countries: An insight using panel NL-ARDL

Abstract

The prime objective of the current study is to investigate the impact of mineral resource rents, fintech technological innovation, and digital transformation on the environmental quality of 50 BRI countries. The panel data from the twenty years from 2000 to 2019 of the sample countries are used in the analysis of this study. The study has employed the Panel NL-ARDL to achieve the research objectives. Meanwhile, the current study has employed conventional unit root tests based on Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) unit root tests, such as the LLC and IPS tests. This study employs the method of heterogeneous dynamic panel analysis. The results obtained from the FMOLS regression analysis provide a detailed comprehension of the complex connections between Mineral Resource Rent, Fintech, Digital Transformation, and CO₂ emissions; these findings indicate that countries with advanced financial technology or heavy reliance on Mineral resources are more likely to observe the favorable impacts of digital transformation on the environment. The study results imply that policymakers should investigate all-encompassing policies that exploit these interactions, recognizing that a complete approach can produce substantial and enduring environmental advantages. The interaction variables (NRRDTT and FNTINDTT) demonstrate the negative coefficients that emphasize the combined impact of Mineral resource rent, Finetch, and digital transformation. Policymakers in resource-dependent economies should consider strategies incorporating digitalization and financial technology to optimize their potential impact on environmental sustainability.