Exploring the nexus between financial inclusion, governance, and carbon emissions in SAARC countries

This study examines the impact of financial inclusion (FI) and institutional quality (INSQ) on carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions in South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) economies, using data from 2004 to 2022. The hypotheses were tested using a generalized method of moments (GMM) approach. Beside, a robust moment method quantile regression (MM-QR) static model and Granger causality tests were employed to validate the results. The findings indicate that FI indicators, such as bank branches of commercial banks (BOCB) and automated teller machines (ATMs) are positively associated with CO₂ emissions. Similarly, the INSQ has a significant positive impact on CO₂ emissions. Control variables, including foreign direct investment (FDI), financial development (FD), and population growth (PG), are also positively linked to CO₂ emissions, whereas globalization (GI) has a negative impact. Robustness tests confirm that the effects of FI and INSQ on CO₂ emissions vary across economic contexts, with unidirectional causality observed between BOCB and CO₂ and bidirectional causality between ATMs and CO₂. This study highlights the need for policymakers in SAARC countries to balance their economic development and environmental sustainability. Integrating environmentally friendly technologies and practices into financial and institutional development strategies is essential. Promoting green banking, strengthening environmental regulations, and leveraging globalization for cleaner technologies can help mitigate the adverse effects of FI and INSQ on CO₂ emissions. This study underscores the importance of incorporating environmental considerations into economic and financial policies to achieve sustainable development.