Empirical evidence of the environmental Kuznets curve: economic growth and ecological footprint of Southeast Asian countries

Purpose This study focuses on analyzing the relationship between economic growth and ecological footprint in Southeast Asia during the period 2000–2022, to test the validity of the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis, and at the same time provide suggestions for sustainable development policies suitable to the practical conditions of the region. Design/methodology/approach The study applies the Threshold Model to test the existence of an income threshold at which the relationship between economic growth and environmental degradation changes. Through this, the study can clearly identify different stages in the process of economic development and their impacts on the environment, thereby testing the validity of the Kuznets Curve hypothesis on the environment. Findings The study provides empirical evidence for the existence of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) in Southeast Asia, based on the Ecological Footprint (EF) index. The results from the threshold variable model are consistent with the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) theory, showing that environmental quality declines in the early stages of growth due to resource exploitation and industrialization, but has the potential to improve beyond a certain threshold through effective technology and policies. Sensitivity analysis strengthens the accuracy of the results and assesses the influence of each variable, providing a scientific basis for sustainable development policies. Research limitations/implications This study helps identify sustainable development models and effective strategies, thereby drawing lessons for Southeast Asian countries in formulating green growth policies. Originality/value This study tests the EKC hypothesis by examining the relationship between ecological footprint and economic growth of Southeast Asian countries as a basis for proposing recommendations towards green growth goals.