Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Associate Professor, Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
2
². M.A. of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
3
Professor, Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
10.22080/jeem.2026.30528.1035
Abstract
Background and Objective: In recent years, geopolitical fluctuations and changes in energy consumption patterns have significantly impacted environmental quality and ecological sustainability in Iran. The accelerating trend of industrialization and exploitation of natural resources has also posed serious challenges to environmental sustainability. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of non - renewable energy consumption and geopolitical risk on the ecological footprint index in iran.
Methods: This applied research utilizes monthly time series data from 2000 to 2022 and employs the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) within the Johansen-Juselius cointegration framework to analyze the long-term and short-term relationships among the selected variables.
Results: The results of the model indicate that non-renewable energy consumption, geopolitical risk, industrialization, and natural resource exploitation have a significant and positive long-term effect on increasing the ecological footprint. In contrast, trade liberalization has a significant negative effect on this index, contributing to reduced environmental pressure.
Conclusion: The findings reveal that Iran’s ecological footprint is directly influenced by its energy consumption structure, political tensions, and trade patterns. Accordingly, it is recommended that the government invest in clean energy, strengthen regional diplomacy, develop environmental warning and relief infrastructure, and revise trade agreements to pave the way for reducing the ecological footprint and achieving sustainable development.
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