The mediating effect of transport energy consumption on the relationship between nonrenewable energy consumption and CO₂ emissions in Africa

Energy is a vital tool in economic growth and development. However, the world continues to experience the effects of climate change due to high greenhouse gas emission levels mainly derived from fossil fuel consumption and human activities. The need for energy and effective transportation increases with economic expansion. Clean energy has the potential to mitigate climate change by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This study examined the mediating effect of transport energy consumption on the relationship between nonrenewable energy consumption and CO₂ emissions in 22 African countries from 2001 to 2020. The findings suggest that a 1% increase in nonrenewable energy increases CO₂ emissions by 0.34%. The mediating effect regression shows a direct effect of 0.184, an indirect effect of 0.168, and a total effect of 0.352. The findings reveal that nonrenewable energy increases transport energy consumption by 0.93%. Transport energy is a significant mediator, which is stronger in resource-intensive countries. Clean energy reduces the adverse effects of nonrenewable energy usage. When clean energy increases, there is a reduction in CO₂ emissions. Therefore, stakeholders should implement stringent environmental measures, develop efficient transportation and energy systems, and increase investment in clean energy to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.