The non-linear relationship between green technology and life expectancy.

Mohd Shahidan, Shaari and Abdul Hayy Haziq, Mohamad and Miguel Angel, Esquivias and Temitayo B., Majekodunmi and Amri, Sulong and Wen Chiat, Lee (2025) The non-linear relationship between green technology and life expectancy. Environmental and Sustainability Indicators, 27 (2025). pp. 1-11. ISSN 2665-9727

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Abstract

Balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability and public health remains a pressing challenge for Malaysia. Despite global recognition of renewable energy benefits, limited access and high costs have prolonged dependence on fossil fuels, which contribute to environmental pollution and lower life expectancy. This study offers novelty by extending the Preston Curve framework, examining how renewable energy consumption in�fluences life expectancy. Using annual data from 1980 to 2020, the study employs a non-linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model to capture asymmetric effects and investigate whether increases and decreases in renewable energy, economic growth, health expenditure, and financial development have distinct impacts on life expectancy. Malaysia is an appropriate case study due to its long-standing reliance on fossil fuels and its gradual transition towards renewable energy. The results reveal apparent asymmetries: higher renewable energy use and health spending significantly increase life expectancy. Meanwhile, the impact of economic growth varies in both the short and long run, reflecting the non-linear trade-offs between industrial growth and environmental health. These findings indicate that conventional linear models may overlook key patterns. They emphasize the need for integrated policies that support renewable energy and increase healthcare investment to improve life expectancy in a lower-carbon economy.

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