Score contribution per author:
α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count
This paper analyzes the impact of bilateral trade among the BRICS countries on fossil energy consumption. Trade costs and economic scales on both sides have barely been considered in previous literature when bilateral trade impacts fossil energy. Using export data, energy-related data, and the GDP from the BRICS countries from 2000 to 2019, we analyze the characteristics of trade-related factors driving fossil energy. To combine exports with the GDP of both sides, we embed the gravity equation into an index decomposition equation and find that bilateral trade increases fossil energy consumption. Trade increased fossil energy consumption through growing transportation volumes during 2000–2008, and transportation energy efficiency improvements under technological advances reduced fossil energy consumption during 2014–2018. Another channel is that trade increased fossil energy consumption by promoting economic development.