Spatial Investigation of Uncertainty and Ecological Footprint: A Comparative Analysis of Renewable Energy Impacts

While many studies examine ecological footprint drivers, the impact of economic and political uncertainty is underexplored. This study addresses this gap by analysing the effects of the World Uncertainty Index (WUI) and renewable energy consumption on ecological footprints across 126 countries from 2001 to 2021, using a dynamic spatial Durbin model. Results show that WUI significantly reduces ecological footprints in both the short and long run. Spatial spillovers reveal that uncertainty’s effects extend beyond national borders, amplifying regional environmental impacts. Comparative analysis indicates that the negative effects of uncertainty outweigh the benefits of renewable energy consumption. These findings highlight the critical importance of socioeconomic and political stability, suggesting that effective environmental governance requires both domestic policy coherence and global coordination to mitigate uncertainty-driven spillovers and promote long-term ecological resilience.