Does tourism productivity respond to economic growth and CO2 emissions asymmetrically in Asian countries? The implication for sustainability

In this study, we have analyzed the asymmetric influence of tourism activities on economic growth and CO2 emissions in selected Asian economies covering the time span from 1992 to 2020. The results are estimated using the panel NARDL approach. These results confer that a rise in tourism activities causes the CO2 emissions to decline and economic growth to rise, whereas a fall in tourism activities causes the CO2 emissions to rise and economic growth to decline in the long run. Similarly, internet use reduces CO2 emissions and enhances economic growth in the long run. On the other side, financial efficiency causes CO2 emissions to fall and economic growth to rise in the long run. The results propose essential policy implications.

Automated summary

This study examines the asymmetric impact of tourism activities on economic growth and CO2 emissions in selected Asian economies. The findings suggest that an increase in tourism activities leads to a decline in CO2 emissions and an increase in economic growth, while a decrease in tourism activities results in an increase in CO2 emissions and a decrease in economic growth. Furthermore, internet use and financial efficiency have positive long-term effects on economic growth and CO2 emissions.