This study analyzes the impact of health, education, energy, and pollution on productivity in emerging economies. Using fixed-effect models and considering various dimensions of health and education (malnutrition, clean water access, HIV prevalence, life expectancy, years of schooling), the study finds that health and education variables significantly influence productivity. Trade openness shows a negative effect, highlighting the need for policies promoting technology transfer. The positive effect of energy use is offset by increased pollution, suggesting a need to reconsider energy mixes. Public investment in improving these factors is crucial for boosting productivity, economic growth, and societal welfare.

Yanliang Yu, Shahzad Alvi, Saira Tufail, Shahzada M. Naeem Nawaz, Michael Yao-Ping Peng, Nauman Ahmad