Integrated Methodology for Evaluating Environmental Efficiency of Nations with Consideration of International Trade Impacts

In the context of global challenges, including climate change, technological transformation and economic instability, environmental policy is becoming a key factor in sustainable development. The article analyzes the differences in the environmental strategies of the G7 and BRICS countries based on the Environmental Performance Index developed by Yale University. A comparative analysis of Environmental Performance Index dynamics in recent years has been conducted, taking into account three key objectives: ecosystem health, environmental protection, and combating climate change. The results show that the G7 countries demonstrate higher rates of environmental development, which is partly explained by the withdrawal of “dirty” industries to developing countries, including BRICS participants. However, when the index is adjusted to reflect the “imported” ecological footprint, the differences between the groups are reduced, which indicates the shortcomings of the current assessment methodology. A modification of the Environmental Performance Index has been proposed that includes accounting for “imported” emissions, which allows for a more objective assessment of each country’s contribution to the global environmental situation. It is concluded that it is necessary to revise international environmental standards to ensure sustainable development without artificially consolidating the leadership of individual states. Special attention is paid to the political and economic consequences of the G7’s dominance in shaping the global environmental agenda. It has been revealed that mechanisms such as carbon taxes can be used to put economic pressure on developing countries. At the same time, BRICS has the potential to promote alternative approaches that take into account the fair distribution of environmental responsibility.