Rural–Urban Integration and Revitalization: A Sustainability Perspective

Dear Colleagues,

The global pursuit of sustainable development has brought renewed attention to the dynamic interplay between rural and urban regions. As urbanization accelerates, the dichotomy between rural and urban spaces often exacerbates socio-economic disparities, environmental degradation, and cultural fragmentation. However, these challenges also present opportunities to reimagine rural–urban relationships through integrative strategies that prioritize ecological balance, equitable resource distribution, and inclusive growth. This Special Issue seeks to explore innovative pathways for harmonizing rural and urban development while advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Rural–urban integration is not merely a spatial or economic endeavor, but a multidimensional process that intersects with environmental stewardship, technological innovation, and community resilience. Traditional approaches to rural revitalization often focus on infrastructure investment or industrial transplantation, yet such measures risk perpetuating extractive practices or marginalizing local identities. In contrast, sustainability-driven integration emphasizes synergies—leveraging urban technological and financial resources to enhance rural livelihoods while preserving agroecological systems, cultural heritage, and biodiversity. This paradigm shift calls for interdisciplinary research that bridges urban planning, environmental science, economics, and social policy.

This Special Issue invites contributions that address critical questions, such as:

• How can rural–urban partnerships foster circular economies and reduce carbon footprints?
• What governance models enable participatory decision-making and equitable benefit-sharing?
• How do digital technologies (e.g., smart agriculture, e-commerce) reshape rural–urban linkages?
• What role do traditional knowledge systems play in sustainable land use and community resilience?
• How can policies mitigate the risks of gentrification or resource exploitation in integrated zones?
• How do partnerships/relations function between small-scale farmers and agribusiness?

We welcome theoretical frameworks, empirical studies, and case analyses that highlight successful practices or lessons learned from diverse geographical contexts. Topics may include, but are not limited to, the following: agro-tourism synergies, green infrastructure networks, decentralized renewable energy systems, and policy innovations in land tenure or fiscal decentralization, partnerships/relations between small-scale farmers and agribusiness.

By curating cutting-edge research and fostering cross-sectoral dialogue, this issue aims to contribute actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and scholars committed to building regenerative rural–urban ecosystems. Together, we can rechart a future where cities and countryside thrive interdependently—anchored in justice, sustainability, and shared prosperity.

I look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Miriam Grant
Guest Editor

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• sustainable development
• rural–urban integration
• revitalization
• circular economy
• governance
• SDGs