1INTI International University, Nilai, Seremban, Malaysia
2Lecturer in Marketing, Danford Higher Education, Melbourne, Australia
3Professor (Management), Head - International Program Office, Nodal Officer-NEP 2020, HOD - School of Management, D Y Patil University, Pune, Ambi
This study examines the relationship between economic growth and environmental quality in the United States and China from 2004 to 2024 within the Environmental Kuznets Curve framework. Using a comparative analytical approach, the study employs GDP per capita as the indicator of economic growth and CO₂ emissions per capita as the indicator of environmental impact. Secondary data were obtained from World Bank sources, and historical trend analysis was used to compare a developed economy. The findings reveal clear differences between the two countries. In the United States, GDP per capita increased substantially while CO₂ emissions per capita generally declined, indicating stronger evidence of decoupling and suggesting that the country is positioned in the later stage of the EKC. In contrast, China experienced rapid growth in GDP per capita accompanied by an overall increase in CO₂ emissions per capita, reflecting the environmental pressures associated with industrial expansion and an earlier stage of EKC development. The study further shows that environmental outcomes are shaped not only by income growth but also by technological progress, policy design, and energy transition. Policy comparison indicates that the United States relies more on subsidies and regulatory measures, whereas China combines subsidies, regulations, and emissions trading mechanisms in a more integrated framework. The analysis also highlights that climate shocks, pandemics, and trade tensions can alter the growth–environment relationship. Overall, the study concludes that sustainable development requires coordinated environmental policy, innovation, and long-term planning alongside economic expansion.
Keywords: Economic growth, environmental sustainability, GDP per capita, United States, climate policy, sustainable development; economic growth
How to cite this article: Yee JHJ, Teck TS, Geok LS, Fernandez RT, Liau CH, Sonar P. Sustainability vs. Economic Development: A Comparative Analysis of Environmental Impact and Economic Growth in Developed and Developing Economies. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(10s): 440-448; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.10s.56
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None