Title: Examining the impact of human capital on environmental degradation in BRICS nations

Authors: Anshita Sachan; Ashis Kumar Pradhan

Addresses: Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India ' Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract: Owing to the significance of human capital in the environmental sustainability and economic development, present research reassesses the linkage between human capital and environmental degradation for BRICS nations. The study has been carried while using annual time series data for the period of 1996-2019. Further Driscoll-Kraay, ARDL and AMG models have been employed for econometric analysis. The results revealed that human capital helps in the improvement of the environment. Moreover, total patents and globalisation index have favourable effects on the environment, while trade openness increases carbon emissions. To enhance the human capital of the economy, it is crucial to boost school enrolment, promote fair access to schooling, and extend the average duration of schooling. Our findings endorse proper human resource management policymaking.

Keywords: human capital; BRICS; total patents; globalisation index; trade openness.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEGN.2026.151371

International Journal of the Energy-Growth Nexus, 2026 Vol.1 No.3, pp.201 - 218

Received: 02 Jul 2025
Accepted: 19 Jul 2025
Published online: 26 Jan 2026 *

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