Exploring the relationship between e-government development and environmental sustainability: A study of small island developing states

Abstract

Small island developing states (SIDS) are one of the most vulnerable countries for environmental sustainability in the world. To maintain environmental sustainability, the SIDS governments are pursuing many e-government projects, but there is much debate on its effectiveness. In the absence of empirical evidence, this study conducts quantitative analysis to estimate the effects of e-government development on environmental sustainability. Utilizing a panel dataset, we found that the development of e-government not only has direct effects on environmental sustainability, but also indirect effects through the enhancement of government effectiveness. This study emphasized the importance of contingent or intermediary factors in the study of e-government effectiveness. Additionally, after reviewing potential variables, we recommend the effectiveness of government as an important intermediary variable for the environmental sustainability in developing countries, such as SIDS.