Evaluating industrial competitiveness strategy in achieving environmental sustainability

PurposeThis study has incorporated competitiveness by considering it a significant factor behind determining as well as moderating industrial value added in the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) framework. This study aims to explore the moderating role of competitiveness policy in EKC with an aim to promote business led sustainability at national level. Design/methodology/approachConsidering the environmental deterioration aspect of industrialization, this study tests the existence of EKC for SAARC countries using the data from 1996 to 2021 using second-generation static panel data model. FindingsEstimated results have validated that moderating effect is responsible for improving environmental sustainability in SAARC countries. Furthermore, population density is responsible for increasing while trade openness is responsible for decreasing carbon emissions. Originality/valueHigher industrial activities are a symbol of upward-moving economic growth. But its other impact is in the form of environmental deterioration. However, the relationship between industrialization and environmental quality can be identified through EKC.