An Empirical Analysis of the Effects of R&D and Industrial Structure on Carbon Emissions in Major Carbon-Emitting Economies

Purpose : This study analyzes the effects of R&D capabilities and industrial structure on carbon emissions in 10 major emitting countries, Korea, and the EU. Research design, data and methodology : Panel data from 1997 to 2023 were collected from the Global Carbon Budget and the World Bank. The analysis was conducted separately for the post-Kyoto Protocol and post-Paris Agreement periods using panel regression. Results : Researchers were found to increase emissions in the post-Paris period. R&D expenditure showed a negative but insignificant effect, implying potential for long-term emission reduction. Industrial share significantly increased carbon emissions in both periods. Conclusions : The study suggests qualitative improvement in R&D labor, sustained R&D investment, and transition toward energy-efficient industries to mitigate emissions.