Economic Policy Uncertainty and Carbon Emissions in Emerging Markets

<jats:p>This paper examines how economic policy uncertainty (EPU) affects carbon emissions in 13 emerging market economies from 1990 to 2023. Results show that higher EPU increases emissions, though effects vary by structural and institutional factors. Economies with stronger institutions, cleaner energy, and higher development levels exhibit weaker responses. Lower-income economies face more pronounced effects, while climate vulnerability also shapes outcomes. The findings highlight how policy and structural conditions influence emissions under uncertainty and inform strategies to mitigate environmental risks.</jats:p>