Evaluating the Impact of National Energy Policy on Environmental Sustainability in the Niger Delta, Nigeria

Environmental sustainability represents a multidimensional construct encompassing the conservation, protection, and responsible management of natural resources and ecosystems. Rooted in ecological preservation, biodiversity conservation, environmental degradation, and pollution mitigation, sustainability is shaped by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Yet, despite their significant contributions, environmental sustainability in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria has become a subject of concern as most of the communities are faced with high uncertainty and business failure rates. Therefore, this study examined the impact of national energy policy on environmental sustainability in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. This study was conducted with the aid of an integrated theoretical framework derived from environmental justice and ecological modernisation theories, among others, and a survey research method for data collection. The study found that hydrocarbon exploration and gas flaring have a statistically significant impact on environmental sustainability in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria at 5% level of significance. The regulatory framework has a positive but insignificant impact on environmental sustainability in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria at 5% level of significance. The study concluded that national energy policy influences environmental sustainability in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The study thus recommended, among others that reviews and strengthen existing environmental regulations to address all potential environmental impacts of hydrocarbon exploration comprehensively. This may require updating legislation, closing loopholes and incorporating stricter environmental standards.