1*INTI International University, Malaysia. Email: i26038942@student.newinti.edu.my (Corresponding Author)
2Educator, M.P.S. Jugdambi, SSS, Mauritius
3Assam Down Town University, Guwahati, Assam, India
The connection between economic growth and the sustainability of the environment has become one of the most significant themes in the economic policy of the world. Although economic growth will enhance the standards of living, it could also create environmental stresses by increasing the level of energy consumption and carbon emissions. In this study, the correlation between the speed of economic growth and environmental impact is examined through the analysis of the changes in the GDP per capita and carbon dioxide (CO₂) per capita in the United States and Vietnam in the years 2003-2022. The study examines the relationship between economic growth and environmental degradation or improvement in the economies at various development stages through a comparative quantitative research method and application of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) framework. The findings indicate conflicting trends in the two nations. In the US, GDP per capita rose over time and CO₂ emissions per capita fell, indicating a slow decoupling of economic growth and environmental degradation. Unlike Vietnam, which recorded a combination of growth rates of income and carbon emissions, which indicates the environmental pressures that come with the rapid industrialisation and the growth of energy demand. These results demonstrate that the correlation between the level of economic development and the quality of an environment depends on the development level and policy potential. In the research, the significance of technological advancement, environmental control, and renewable energy expenditure in minimizing the intensity of emissions but maintaining economic growth is also highlighted. Overall, the analysis helps to understand the way in which countries with various levels of income may achieve economic development and overcome the problem of environmental sustainability.
Keywords: Environmental Kuznets Curve, Economic Growth, CO₂ Emissions, Sustainable Development, Comparative Analysis, Economic Growth
How to cite this article: Kit LK, Teck TS, Geok LS, Fernandez RT, Toh JS, Veerunjaysingh S, Prakash S. 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): 42. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.10s.6
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None