Research on the relationship of economic growth and environmental pollution in Shandong province based on environmental Kuznets curve

The relationship between economic development and environmental pollution of Shandong province is studied. We tested Environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis using data from 1981 to 2008. The results show that there is an inverted U-shaped curve between emission of sulphur dioxide or soot and GDP per capita. It can be explained by ever-cleaner industrial structure, quickly increasing environmental protection investment and stricter environmental policy. The turning points of sulphur dioxide and soot are both apparently less than that of developed countries. It indicates the possibility to exceed the extreme point at the low level of per capita income for developing countries. Waste water and industrial solid waste do not accord with the EKC curve. It relates to quickly ascending discharge of municipal waste water and attributes of solid waste. Our study reveals the importance of adjusting industrial structure, increasing environmental protection expense and strengthening the construction of environmental policy. Moreover, it points to the necessity and urgent need of improving the treatment facilities for polluted water, developing clean production and carrying on recycled use of waste. (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd. Selection and peer-review under responsibility of RIUDS