Navigating sustainability and economic growth: the dual influence of green economic growth and technological innovation on environmental outcomes in South Asia

Amid the universal challenges of climate alteration and ecological degradation, sustainable development is of high concern in recent years. In this regard, this study emphases on South Asian economies, inspecting the ecological influences of Renewable Energy (RE), Technological Innovation (TI), Economic Globalization, and Green Economic Growth (GEG), as well as Human Capital from 1991 to 2022, specifically analysing their effects on the ecological footprint (ECF). Using the Panel Quantile Regression technique enhanced the analytical precision and robustness. Results show that RE firstly worsens ECF in the short run but intensify it in the medium to long run. TI also firstly have adverse effects on ECF, but then it positively affects ECF and contributes to ecological improvements over time. GEG, while positive in the long run, shows an adverse effect in the short and medium terms. The study also confirms bidirectional connection between RE and the ECF, and between TI and ECF, while GEG influences the ECF unidirectionally. These results highlight the perilous need for policies that harness these interactions to achieve the United Nations (SDG, s), mainly those linked to affordable and clean energy, industry innovation, and sustainable cities and communities, enhancing energy security and reassuring sustainability in South Asian nations.