Empirical relationship between creativity and carbon intensity: a case of OPEC countries

This article attempts to examine the role of creativity on carbon intensity in case of Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) countries. The panel estimation techniques are used for annual data for the period of 1990–2018. The empirical evidence affirms that patent rights and innovation act as a policy factor in controlling carbon intensity, i.e. creativity leads to energy-efficient and environment friendly society. However, innovations have higher magnitude compared to patent. Contrarily, urbanization and economic growth are the key determinants in enhancing carbon intensity, while renewable energy has insignificant impact on carbon intensity. The empirical analysis, especially for creativity, can add practical implications for related authorities in controlling carbon intensity and improving energy efficiency.