The interplay of Fintech, natural resources, globalization, and environmental sustainability in China: A BARDL investigation

Abstract

Over the years, China has been able to continue its remarkable economic development. It has been a major player in international trade and can be considered a global factory. This has brought a series of economic benefits for the country with rising levels of income and standard of living. However, the rise in industrial activity has also led to a significant increase in pollution levels across the country. China has a share of more than 28% of the global pollution. The study analyzed the role of Fintech (FNT), Natural Resources (NTR) and Globalization (GLB) in achieving Environmental Sustainability (ENS) using BARDL approaches. The study's findings suggest that Fintech can be used as a gateway to achieve green finance and green investment in the Chinese economy. Similarly, the use and extraction of Natural resource use can be detrimental to the development of Environmental sustainability. The rise in globalization also increases economic activity and contributes towards faster exhaustion of natural resources, which would be negatively related to environmental sustainability. The recommendation of the study includes encouraging Fintech to promote green finance and green investment. The government should adopt a sustainable supply chain management approach in its procurement to ensure that the government can reduce their CO2 emissions and promote a greener image in the market.