Unravelling the Hidden Effects of ICT on Carbon Emissions: A Panel Quantile ARDL Approach

This study examines the relationship between Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and carbon emissions in the context of economic growth, energy dynamics and globalisation. Using data for 133 countries from 1995 to 2020 and the Panel Quantile ARDL method, it identifies nonlinear and asymmetric effects across quantiles and time horizons. ICT is disaggregated into internet use, mobile subscriptions, fixed lines and ICT imports to assess their impacts. Results show that internet use and fixed lines increase emissions, while mobile subscriptions and ICT imports reduce them. Renewable energy mitigates negative effects, whereas energy intensity amplifies them, highlighting the importance of sustainable ICT and energy policies.