Evaluation of Water Pollution and Economic Growth Relation in Iran: Application of Environmental Kuznets Model

Most studies approve a form of inverted U relationship between environmental quality and economic growth, the economic term in this subject entitled is known Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) given the importance of maintaining environmental quality along with economic growth. This study has identified about evaluated water pollution and economic growth in Iran during 1988-2010, based on theoretical foundations of EKC curve. The results showed that an economic conditions prevailing in Iran is consistent with the EKC curve and it follows this curve. Iran's EKC turning point approximately will be in 1530.5 USD of per capita national income. Statistical analysis of existing data showed that Iran still have not come back to the point of the EKC and is far from it. According to these results, it seems necessary to take steps more accurately in growth the developing of our conditions, until the economic growth increases per capita national income, as well as improved quality of waters, or at least prevents them from contamination.

Keywords:

Economic growth , Environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) , Environmental quality , Water pollution , Iran