A Nonlinear Analysis of Carbon Pricing Mechanisms: Comparing the Economic Impacts of Carbon Tax and Emissions Trading Schemes in Developing Economies

Abstract

This study evaluates the relative effectiveness of Carbon Tax and Emission Trading Schemes (ETS), for developing economies, in promoting economic growth as well as emission reductions. A systematic literature review (SLR) analyzing 36 studies is employed for this purpose. Findings reveal that Carbon Tax brings temporary economic deceleration but fuels long-term sustainability with clearer direct impacts. ETS also achieves the same objectives with greater flexibility thereby offsetting the negative impacts of Carbon Pricing via price volatility. Revenue recycling is a key tool to address economic disbenefits. This study sheds an urgent light on the imperatives for region-specific policy designs and forthcoming hybrid mechanisms as well as longitudinal socioeconomic effect investigation among underrepresented developing regions.