From resources to resilience: Understanding the impact of standard of living and energy consumption on natural resource rent in Asia

As Asia faces the dual challenges of rapid economic expansion and mounting environmental pressures, the region's ability to balance growth with sustainability has become a focal point of global discourse. With increasing energy demands, escalating CO₂ emissions, and widening income inequality, an integrated approach to managing natural resources has never been more critical. This study responds to this urgent need by examining the complex interplay between energy consumption, living standards, and natural resource rents—factors that will determine whether Asia can sustain its growth without depleting its ecological assets. Our analysis incorporates key variables such as standard of living, income inequality,…