The triple nexus: Open data, climate policy, and environmental outcomes in high-emission countries

This research seeks to investigate the interconnectedness of open data practices, climate policy implementation, and environmental performance in in High-Emission Countries (i.e., contribute significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions). Using the Open Data Index (ODI) and Climate Policy (CP) as independent variables, the study gauges their influence on the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) as the dependent outcome. Data for the study is extracted from secondary sources like the Open Data Inventory (ODI), Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI- Germanwatch ‘s Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) and the University of Yale’s Environmental Performances Index (EPI). Regression models reinforce the direct impact of open data practices on environmental performance outcomes, where open data is the bedrock for a countries policy development. The study also delves into the strategic importance of integrating robust data governance and climate policy for better environmental outcomes in this High-Emission Countries. While the results hold promising implications for policymakers, the research acknowledges potential limitations including data biases, geographical focus, and the omission of certain nations due to non-reciprocal indices. The findings underscore the pivotal role of transparent data practices in fostering sustainable environmental practices.