Does corruption harm biodiversity in developing countries? Analysis of the effects of transmission channels

This paper contributes to the literature on the relationship between corruption and biodiversity in developing countries (DCs). The existing literature on this subject is sparse and not consensual, with empirical studies limited mainly to meta-analyses and case studies, without any real empirical analysis of this relationship. Furthermore, the transmission channels through which corruption influences biodiversity have not yet been clearly identified. This study fills this gap by examining the effects of transmission channels on a panel of 70 developing countries over the period 2000–2022. Using the GMM system method, the results indicate that corruption has no significant direct effect on biodiversity in developing countries. However, the structural equation mediation analysis reveals that corruption negatively affects biodiversity through the channels of total population, urbanisation rate, economic growth and energy consumption. For developing countries, protecting biodiversity requires an active fight against corruption, the implementation of sustainable growth, the strengthening of democratic institutions and the energy transition. These efforts must be accompanied by inclusive policies and the commitment of local communities to guarantee the effective and sustainable management of ecosystems.