Nexus between air travel and environmental degradation in BRICS Countries: A tourism perspective

Abstract

International tourism is highly dependent on air travel, which enhances destination countries’ economic growth and living standards while causing environmental degradation. This study investigates the effect of air travel on environmental degradation in BRICS nations. The study used feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) to evaluate the environmental Kuznets curve using data spanning 1995 to 2018. The study finds evidence of N-shaped EKC in the economies of the BRICS nations. We also find a positive relationship between tourism, urbanization, and environmental degradation (as measured by CO2 and SO2 emissions from civil aviation) and a negative relationship between economic development and environmental degradation. To achieve sustainable growth and environmental protection and promote green technology, the BRICS governments should devise policies that address the aviation industry’s short- and long-term needs.