Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Buildings buildings	3.1	4.4	2011	15.1 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Forests forests	2.5	4.6	2010	16.8 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
ISPRS International Journal of Geo-Information ijgi	2.8	7.2	2012	33.1 Days	CHF 1900	Submit
Land land	3.2	5.9	2012	17.5 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Systems systems	3.1	4.1	2013	20.1 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Remote Sensing remotesensing	4.1	8.6	2009	24.3 Days	CHF 2700	Submit

24 pages, 38600 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Convenience of 15-Minute Community Life Circle Facilities and Analysis of Non-Linear Influencing Variables from the Perspective of Aging: A Case Study of Shenyang

by Chang Lyu, Li Li, Jin Zhang, Zijing Wang and Yanpeng Gao

Land 2026, 15(2), 285; https://doi.org/10.3390/land15020285 - 9 Feb 2026

Viewed by 233

Abstract

Amid rapid global population aging, developing age-friendly urban spaces centered on the “15-minute community life circle” has become a priority in planning research. Taking Shenhe District of Shenyang City, a region undergoing deep aging, as a case study, this research constructs a facility [...] Read more.

Amid rapid global population aging, developing age-friendly urban spaces centered on the “15-minute community life circle” has become a priority in planning research. Taking Shenhe District of Shenyang City, a region undergoing deep aging, as a case study, this research constructs a facility weighting system reflecting the actual needs of the elderly. Integrating multi-source spatial data, the XGBoost model and SHAP framework were applied to analyze the non-linear effects of socio-economic, functional, and land-use factors on facility convenience. Results indicate that: (1) facility convenience exhibits a distinct “west-high, east-low” spatial pattern, characterized by high agglomeration in the western core and significant deficits in the eastern fringe; (2) convenience levels vary across categories, with medical and health facilities showing the highest accessibility, while cultural and leisure (CALFs), life service, and elderly care service facilities (ECSFs) remain the primary deficiencies; and (3) influencing variables demonstrate complex non-linear mechanisms, wherein functional density and distance from the city center are critical drivers with non-monotonic effects, while road network density displays threshold effects, inhibiting ECSFs and CALFs at high densities. These findings provide a refined, quantitative basis for optimizing facility layouts and formulating urban renewal strategies to build age-friendly communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 14391 KB

Open AccessArticle

Quantifying Urban Park Cooling Effects and Tri-Factor Synergistic Mechanisms: A Case Study of Nanjing’s Central Districts

by Ge Shi, Lin Sun, Quan An, Lei Tang, Jiantao Shi, Chuang Chen, Lihang Feng and Hongyang Ma

Systems 2026, 14(2), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems14020130 - 27 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 218

Abstract

Urban parks play a vital role in mitigating the urban heat island effect and enhancing urban climate resilience. However, quantitative characterization of park cooling effects and the synergistic mechanisms among multiple factors remains limited. Focusing on the central urban area of Nanjing, a [...] Read more.

Urban parks play a vital role in mitigating the urban heat island effect and enhancing urban climate resilience. However, quantitative characterization of park cooling effects and the synergistic mechanisms among multiple factors remains limited. Focusing on the central urban area of Nanjing, a typical high-density subtropical city, this study analyzes Landsat 8/9 imagery from 2022 to 2025. The inflection point method was used to quantify three core indicators—cooling intensity, cooling distance, and cooling efficiency—while Pearson correlation analysis was applied to identify key drivers and examine synergistic relationships. The results show that (1) urban parks exhibit a “central aggregation–peripheral diffusion” pattern, which corresponds to pronounced spatial variability in the thermal environment; (2) park cooling effects display strong spatiotemporal heterogeneity, with notable interannual fluctuations in cooling intensity and a relatively stable cooling distance of approximately 400–500 m; and (3) cooling performance is primarily governed by tri-factor synergy among park size, vegetation characteristics, and surrounding urban environmental conditions. Park size largely determines the cooling extent, whereas underlying surface properties and building density regulate or constrain cooling. These findings clarify quantitative patterns and composite drivers of park cooling in high-density cities and provide evidence to support climate-adaptive green space planning and urban heat mitigation strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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25 pages, 9263 KB

Open AccessArticle

Altitudinal Gradient and Influencing Factors of Carbon Storage in the Gonghe Basin of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau

by Ailing Sun, Xingsheng Xia, Yanqin Wang, Haifeng Zhang and Xuechang Zheng

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2026, 15(1), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi15010048 - 21 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Investigating the spatial distribution and dynamics of terrestrial carbon storage is vital for climate change mitigation. However, horizontal spatial analyses often overlook heterogeneity in complex terrains. Here, we focused on the Gonghe Basin on the northeastern margin of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, where resource [...] Read more.

Investigating the spatial distribution and dynamics of terrestrial carbon storage is vital for climate change mitigation. However, horizontal spatial analyses often overlook heterogeneity in complex terrains. Here, we focused on the Gonghe Basin on the northeastern margin of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, where resource exploitation and ecological conservation interact. By using land use and DEM data and integrating the InVEST model, Geoda, and a geographical detector, we showed the altitudinal gradient effect and spatiotemporal evolution of carbon storage in the Gonghe Basin from 2000 to 2020 and identified the key factors influencing these patterns. Results show the following: (1) From 2000 to 2020, carbon storage in the Gonghe Basin exhibited a distinct pattern of “high at mid-elevations, low at both summit and valley” along the elevation gradient. High-value areas were concentrated in the forest–grassland zone between 2800–4400 m, while low-value areas were distributed in the human activity-intensive zone of 2100–2800 m and the alpine desert zone of 4400–5000 m. (2) The synergistic drivers of carbon storage differed markedly across elevation gradients. The low-elevation zone (2100–2800 m) was characterized by strengthened interactions between vegetation cover and precipitation as well as human activity variables, indicating a coupled natural–anthropogenic driving regime. In the mid-elevation zone (2800–4400 m), interactive effects shifted from vegetation–natural factor coupling to enhanced synergy with social factors such as population density. In the high-elevation zone (4400–5000 m), stable long-term interactions between vegetation and temperature predominated, while sensitivity to interactions involving human activity factors increased. (3) Although natural factors remained dominant, the explanatory power of human activity factors—including GDP density, land-use intensity, and grazing intensity—increased over time across all elevation gradients, suggesting progressively stronger human intervention in carbon cycling. (4) Based on these findings, this study proposes a “three belts–three strategies” synergistic governance framework—“regulation and restoration” for the low-elevation belt, “conservation and efficiency enhancement” for the mid-elevation belt, and “monitoring and early warning” for the high-elevation belt—aiming to enhance regional carbon sink capacity and ecological resilience through zone-specific, targeted interventions. These findings offer a scientific basis for reinforcing regional ecological security and improving carbon sink management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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24 pages, 12254 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Measurement and Equity Analysis of Walking Accessibility in Primary Healthcare Institutions Under Diverse Supply–Demand Scenarios: Evidence from Shenyang

by Yang Li, Enxu Wang, Shasha Li, Qiao Cui and Hao Xie

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2026, 15(1), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi15010040 - 13 Jan 2026

Viewed by 362

Abstract

The walking accessibility of primary healthcare institutions (PHCIs) is a pivotal determinant of health equity. However, prior studies often lack a comprehensive assessment that integrates the spatiotemporal dynamics of both multi-faceted supply and multi-scenario demand. To bridge this gap, this study develops an [...] Read more.

The walking accessibility of primary healthcare institutions (PHCIs) is a pivotal determinant of health equity. However, prior studies often lack a comprehensive assessment that integrates the spatiotemporal dynamics of both multi-faceted supply and multi-scenario demand. To bridge this gap, this study develops an enhanced two-step floating catchment area method (2SFCA-MSD) that concurrently incorporates multiple types of service supply and multiple temporal demand scenarios to quantify PHCI walking accessibility, with equity evaluated using the Gini coefficient and Lorenz curve. The results indicate that: (1) Both supply and demand exhibit pronounced spatiotemporal inequalities. (2) Walking accessibility varies substantially across scenarios; Health services for vulnerable groups (Service B) exhibit the highest walking accessibility across all three supply scenarios, while the morning work scenario demonstrates the best walking accessibility among the four demand scenarios. (3) Gini coefficients exceeding 0.5 across all scenarios reveal severe resource allocation inequity. By establishing a dynamic supply–demand integration framework, this research advances methodological precision in accessibility evaluation, uncovers critical spatiotemporal mismatch patterns, and provides actionable insights for optimizing PHCI planning to promote spatial justice in urban health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 2759 KB

Open AccessArticle

Navigating Trade–Offs and Synergies of Cultivated Land Values in China’s Poverty–Alleviated Area During Rural Transformation: A Case Study of the Liupan Mountain Area in Northwestern China

by Linna Shi and Chenyang Wang

Land 2026, 15(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/land15010019 - 21 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Significant rural transformation has occurred in China’s formerly impoverished areas due to targeted poverty alleviation and rural revitalization strategies. In these areas, the coordinated development of the economic and ecological values of cultivated land resources is essential for rural transformation. This study focuses [...] Read more.

Significant rural transformation has occurred in China’s formerly impoverished areas due to targeted poverty alleviation and rural revitalization strategies. In these areas, the coordinated development of the economic and ecological values of cultivated land resources is essential for rural transformation. This study focuses on the Liupan Mountain area, a typical poverty alleviation demonstration zone and Ecological and economic fragile area in Northwestern China. By collecting statistical yearbook data and raster data, it establishes a valuation system for cultivated land resources, transforming these resources into quantifiable poverty alleviation capital. This approach provides support for the long–term consolidation of targeted poverty alleviation policies. By integrating the Production Possibility Frontier (PPF) method with GIS spatial analysis, we developed a workflow to analyze value correlations and spatial patterns. The results showed the following: (1) While ecological values grew steadily from 2007 to 2022, economic value increased initially and then decreased, with both exhibiting significant spatial heterogeneity. (2) The relationship between economic value and ecological value evolved into a continuously strengthening synergy. (3) The integration of PPF curves with GIS visualization technology enabled the identification of underutilized, overutilized, and optimally utilized areas, revealing a distinct “π–shaped” overutilization zone. This study elucidates the trade–offs, synergies, and spatial characteristics of cultivated land values, providing critical insights for sustainable land resource management in post–poverty transformation areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 5156 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Scale Remote Sensing Evaluation of Land Surface Thermal Contributions Based on Quality–Quantity Dimensions and Land Use–Geomorphology Coupling

by Zhe Li, Jun Yang, He Liu and Xiao Xie

Land 2025, 14(12), 2318; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14122318 - 25 Nov 2025

Viewed by 440

Abstract

With the intensification of global warming, surface thermal environment issues have become increasingly prominent, particularly in the ecologically fragile Yellow River Basin (YRB). However, most studies neglect the synergistic effects of underlying surface composition and geomorphological context, limiting the understanding of regional thermal [...] Read more.

With the intensification of global warming, surface thermal environment issues have become increasingly prominent, particularly in the ecologically fragile Yellow River Basin (YRB). However, most studies neglect the synergistic effects of underlying surface composition and geomorphological context, limiting the understanding of regional thermal contribution patterns. Based on MODIS-derived land surface temperature and Landsat 8-based land use and Fathom DEM-derived geomorphological datasets, this study constructs an integrated assessment framework combining a dual “quality–quantity” perspective with land use–geomorphology coupling, systematically analyzing the comprehensive thermal contributions of different underlying surfaces. Results show that (1) the YRB features diverse underlying surfaces, transitioning from natural (forest, grassland) to human-dominated (cropland, construction land) land uses, and from high-altitude, large undulating mountains to low-altitude, small undulating plains along the source-to-downstream gradient. (2) The average LST is 17.97 °C, displaying a south–north and east–west gradient. Human disturbance intensity drives thermal responses at the land use level, with natural surfaces contributing to cooling regulation, while artificial and desert surfaces generate heat accumulation. Geomorphology jointly shapes the thermal distribution, with high mountains acting as cold sources and plains/hills as heat sources. (3) Dual “quality–quantity” dimensional evaluation reveals that temperature-based assessments alone overestimate localized extremes (e.g., towns, extremely high mountains) and underestimate broad, moderate surfaces (e.g., drylands, large and medium undulating high mountains). This “area-neglect effect” may lead to biased regional thermal assessments and unbalanced resource allocation. (4) Coupled land use–geomorphology analysis uncovers the multi-scale composite mechanisms of thermal formation and mitigates single-factor assessment biases. Geomorphology defines macro-scale energy exchange, while land use regulates local heat responses. The results provide scientific support for large-scale thermal assessment and refined management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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17 pages, 4948 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Climate Resilience Assessment and Enhancement Strategies for Hebei Province in Response to Climate Change

by Xueming Li, Meishuo Du and Yishan Song

Land 2025, 14(11), 2189; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14112189 - 4 Nov 2025

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Abstract

Enhancing climate resilience is imperative for cities to mitigate the effects of global warming and the rising frequency of extreme weather events. This paper develops an evaluation index system for urban climate resilience in Hebei Province, based on data from 11 cities within [...] Read more.

Enhancing climate resilience is imperative for cities to mitigate the effects of global warming and the rising frequency of extreme weather events. This paper develops an evaluation index system for urban climate resilience in Hebei Province, based on data from 11 cities within the province. It evaluates the levels of climate resilience and identifies their limiting factors using the entropy weight method, an urban climate resilience assessment model, and an obstacle degree model, with a focus on four dimensions: ecological resilience, economic resilience, social resilience, and infrastructure resilience. The results indicate that (1) spatial variations in climate resilience across cities in Hebei Province are minimal, with the majority of cities exhibiting climate resilience levels within the moderate resilience category. (2) The majority of regions display low ecological and infrastructure resilience (0.1–0.3), while economic resilience is distributed across three tiers, with regional variations; social resilience remains moderately resilient (above 0.3). (3) Among the social resilience factors, C₃ and C₈ exhibit the highest obstruction levels, emerging as key barriers. (4) In order to effectively respond to climate change risks and challenges in a scientific manner, differentiated implementation of climate response strategies, the core of which lies in identifying the dominant vulnerability dimensions of different cities and accurately applying policies, such as Shijiazhuang, Baoding, Xingtai, Handan, and other cities with fragile ecological resilience, should comprehensively deepen the construction of sponge cities to alleviate urban flooding and the heat island effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 4600 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Coupling and Coordination Degree of Virtual and Real Space Heat in Coastal Internet Celebrity Streets

by Yilu Gong, Sijia Han and Jun Yang

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(10), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14100407 - 21 Oct 2025

Viewed by 756

Abstract

This study investigates the coupling and coordination mechanisms between virtual and physical spatial heat in coastal internet-famous streets under the influence of social media. Taking Dalian’s coastal internet-famous street as a case study, user interaction data (likes, favorites, shares, and comments) from the [...] Read more.

This study investigates the coupling and coordination mechanisms between virtual and physical spatial heat in coastal internet-famous streets under the influence of social media. Taking Dalian’s coastal internet-famous street as a case study, user interaction data (likes, favorites, shares, and comments) from the Xiaohongshu platform were integrated with multi-source spatio-temporal big data, including Baidu Heat Maps, to construct an “online–offline” heat coupling and coordination evaluation framework. The entropy-weight method was employed to quantify online heat, while nonlinear regression analysis and a coupling coordination degree model were applied to examine interaction mechanisms and spatio-temporal differentiation patterns. The results show that online heat demonstrates significant polarization with strong agglomeration in the Donggang area, while offline heat fluctuates periodically, rising during the day, stabilizing at night, and peaking on holidays at up to 3.5 times weekday levels with marginal diminishing effects. Forwarding behavior is confirmed as the core driver of online popularity, highlighting the central role of cross-circle communication. The coupling coordination model identifies states ranging from high-quality coordination during holidays to discoordination in daily under-conversion or overload scenarios. These findings verify the leading role of algorithmic recommendation in redistributing spatial power and demonstrate that the sustainability of coastal check-in destinations depends on balancing short-term traffic surges with long-term spatial quality, providing practical insights for governance and sustainable urban planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 884 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Systemic Pathway for Empowering Urban Digital Transformation Through the Industrial Internet

by Xuefei Liu, Zhe Li, Zhitong Liu, Wei Sun and Jun Yang

Systems 2025, 13(9), 824; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13090824 - 19 Sep 2025

Viewed by 817

Abstract

As an integrated socio-technical system linking information technology with industrial infrastructure, the Industrial Internet is increasingly central to urban digital transformation. However, current research largely centers on national or sectoral scales, lacking systematic analysis at the city level—particularly regarding system structure, enabling mechanisms, [...] Read more.

As an integrated socio-technical system linking information technology with industrial infrastructure, the Industrial Internet is increasingly central to urban digital transformation. However, current research largely centers on national or sectoral scales, lacking systematic analysis at the city level—particularly regarding system structure, enabling mechanisms, and region-specific pathways. This study takes Dalian, a city with a strong industrial base and urgent digital transformation needs, leveraging the Industrial Internet Development Index (IIDI), employing a “system structure–mechanism–pathway” analytical framework, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of the spatiotemporal relationship between industrial structure and Industrial Internet performance in Dalian from 2020 to 2022. The study finds that, during the research period, Dalian’s Composite IIDI increased from 0.31 to 0.65, with substantial improvements in platform infrastructure, resource coordination, and data application capacity—providing key support for enterprise digitalization and intelligent consumption. A strong correlation (R² = 0.85) between industrial structure and Industrial Internet performance underscores the structural foundation’s critical role. However, comparative analysis reveals that Dalian still faces structural deficiencies in platform openness, international interface integration, and ecosystem synergy. The study introduces a systemic pathway for empowering Industrial Internet capabilities and offers actionable insights for policymakers seeking to foster regionally adapted digital transformation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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22 pages, 7235 KB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Land-Use Spatial Equilibrium in the Yangtze River Economic Belt Under the Context of High-Quality Development: Quantity Balance and Efficiency Coordination

by Aihui Ma, Wanmin Zhao and Yijia Gao

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090355 - 17 Sep 2025

Viewed by 778

Abstract

As the spatial carrier, the high-quality development of land complements the high-quality development of the economy and society. Imbalanced land use severely restricts regional high-quality development. This study uses panel data from 110 cities at or above the prefecture level in the Yangtze [...] Read more.

As the spatial carrier, the high-quality development of land complements the high-quality development of the economy and society. Imbalanced land use severely restricts regional high-quality development. This study uses panel data from 110 cities at or above the prefecture level in the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) from 2013 to 2022. Based on a conjugate perspective, it comprehensively considers quantitative balance and efficiency coordination to calculate the spatial equilibrium degree of land use. Kernel density estimation and Moran’s I index are employed to reveal the spatiotemporal differentiation characteristics. This study divides land-use spatial equilibrium into different types and proposes differentiated development paths. The findings are as follows: ① In terms of temporal evolution, the spatial equilibrium degree of land use in the YREB exhibits a nonlinear progression, overall trending towards stable convergence. ② In terms of spatial evolution, provincial capital cities and municipalities directly under the central government drive the development of surrounding cities, forming three major urban clusters in the upper, middle, and lower reaches. ③ The spatial clustering characteristics of land-use equilibrium in the YREB are significant, but the degree of agglomeration is continuously weakening. ④ The optimization paths for different types of land-use spatial equilibrium show significant differences, requiring differentiated governance. These findings provide a scientific foundation for optimizing the national spatial pattern of land use, advancing regional balanced development and achieving high-quality development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 3669 KB

Open AccessArticle

Petrochemical Risk Assessment in Coastal China and Implications for Land-Use Dynamics

by Qiaoqiao Lin, Yahui Liang, Xue Luo, Zun Liu and Andong Guo

Land 2025, 14(9), 1811; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14091811 - 5 Sep 2025

Viewed by 969

Abstract

Land-use change and its interaction with petrochemical accident risk are critical for sustainable coastal development. This study established a multi-source data-integrated risk assessment framework, employing fuzzy C-means clustering to stratify petrochemical accident risk into six distinct levels. The analysis revealed the relationship between [...] Read more.

Land-use change and its interaction with petrochemical accident risk are critical for sustainable coastal development. This study established a multi-source data-integrated risk assessment framework, employing fuzzy C-means clustering to stratify petrochemical accident risk into six distinct levels. The analysis revealed the relationship between these risk levels and land-use type changes. Furthermore, the Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy dynamic model was applied to evaluate potential risks at representative coastal petrochemical enterprises. The findings were as follows: (1) Risk concentrates in small-to-medium private, newly established firms, primarily as explosion accidents. (2) The highest risk occurs in Bohai Bay, followed by Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Guangdong; national policies have reduced affected zones from 352.61 km² (2019) to 43.67 km² (2022). (3) The total potential risk zone spans 2986.21 km², with high-risk cores in Hebei, Zhejiang, and Fujian (36.52%) and medium-risk in Shandong Peninsula (32.01%). (4) Risk primarily affects farmland and construction land; urban expansion has increased affected built-up areas from 16.36% (2012) to 47.02% (2022), shifting effects from ecological to combined socio-ecological consequences. These findings provide critical theoretical support and actionable management recommendations for integrating coastal land-use planning, urban expansion control, and coordinated petrochemical risk governance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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21 pages, 19879 KB

Open AccessArticle

Nonlinear Relationships Between Economic Development Stages and Land Use Efficiency in China’s Cities

by Xue Luo, Weixin Luan, Qiaoqiao Lin, Zun Liu, Zhipeng Shi and Gai Cao

Land 2025, 14(9), 1699; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14091699 - 22 Aug 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1033

Abstract

Land use efficiency (LUE) serves as a crucial nexus between economic development and sustainable resource management, directly influencing urban production–consumption systems. While economic development stages (EDSs) reflect a region’s environmental carrying capacity and profoundly affect LUE, the specific mechanisms governing this relationship remain [...] Read more.

Land use efficiency (LUE) serves as a crucial nexus between economic development and sustainable resource management, directly influencing urban production–consumption systems. While economic development stages (EDSs) reflect a region’s environmental carrying capacity and profoundly affect LUE, the specific mechanisms governing this relationship remain unclear. In this study, we combined multi-source data to portray the spatiotemporal patterns of EDSs and LUE in 276 Chinese cities from 1995 to 2020, and we identified the nonlinear effects of EDSs on LUE. Based on the fine-scale LUE, it is confirmed that the older the age of urban land generation, the higher the LUE, laying a theoretical foundation for subsequent research. Simultaneously, the EDS continues to be upgraded, with approximately 70% of cities reaching the post-industrialization stage or higher by 2020. The results of partial dependency plots (PDPs) revealed that the EDS has a positive impact on LUE. From the perspective of different urban scales, the higher the EDSs of supercities, type I large cities, type II large cities, and type II small cities, the greater the positive impact on LUE, whereas the impact patterns at other urban scales follow an inverted U-shape. These findings carry important implications for sustainable spatial development, particularly in optimizing land resource allocation to assist the shift to more efficient production systems and responsible consumption patterns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 13692 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Urban Underground Space Supply–Demand Imbalances Based on Remote Sensing and POI Data: Evidence from Nanjing, China

by Ziyi Wang, Guojie Liu, Yi Hu and Liang Sun

Land 2025, 14(8), 1671; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14081671 - 19 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1500

Abstract

With rapid urbanization, the development of Urban Underground Space (UUS) has become essential to addressing various urban challenges. However, the accelerated expansion of UUS has also introduced problems such as duplicated infrastructure, functional deficiencies, and underutilized spaces. Fundamentally, these issues result from imbalances [...] Read more.

With rapid urbanization, the development of Urban Underground Space (UUS) has become essential to addressing various urban challenges. However, the accelerated expansion of UUS has also introduced problems such as duplicated infrastructure, functional deficiencies, and underutilized spaces. Fundamentally, these issues result from imbalances between the supply and demand for UUS, a phenomenon particularly pronounced in the central areas of major cities. Therefore, employing scientific methods to accurately identify and quantify these gaps is crucial. Leveraging recent advances in remote sensing and point-of-interest (POI) data, this study constructs a multi-source data-driven framework for assessing UUS supply–demand relationships, applied using a grid-based analysis to the central urban area of Nanjing. The results indicate that both the highest supply capacity and demand intensity occur in Xinjiekou Street in Nanjing’s Old City. Most high and medium–high supply and demand zones are concentrated in the Old City. Areas with prominent supply–demand conflicts are identified and classified into five types using the Jenks natural breaks method, further categorized into three groups based on their spatial characteristics, with tailored development strategies proposed accordingly. The proposed evaluation framework provides a robust scientific approach for analyzing UUS supply–demand relationships, offering significant theoretical and practical value for refined urban governance in large cities with extensive data availability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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24 pages, 7613 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Public Service Facilities for Children—A Case Study of the Central Urban Area of Shenyang

by Ruiqiu Pang, Jiawei Xiao, Jun Yang and Weisong Sun

Land 2025, 14(7), 1485; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14071485 - 17 Jul 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1985

Abstract

With the rapid advancement of urbanization, the increasing demand and insufficient supply of public service facilities for children have become urgent problems requiring resolution. This study employs the Shannon diversity index, the location entropy, spatial autocorrelation, and the Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) to [...] Read more.

With the rapid advancement of urbanization, the increasing demand and insufficient supply of public service facilities for children have become urgent problems requiring resolution. This study employs the Shannon diversity index, the location entropy, spatial autocorrelation, and the Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) to analyze the spatial distribution characteristics and influencing factors of children’s public service facilities in the central urban area of Shenyang. The findings of the study are as follows: (1) There are significant differences in the spatial distribution of children’s public service facilities. Higher quantity distribution and diversity index are observed in the core area and Hunnan District compared to the peripheral areas. The Gini coefficient of various facilities is below the fair threshold of 0.4, but 90.32% of the study units have location entropy values below 1, indicating a supply–demand imbalance. (2) The spatial distribution of various facilities exhibits significant clustering characteristics, with distinct differences between high-value and low-value cluster patterns. (3) The spatial distribution of facilities is shaped by four factors: population, transportation, economy, and environmental quality. Residential area density and commercial service facility density emerge as the primary positive drivers, whereas road density and average housing price act as the main negative inhibitors. (4) The mechanisms of influencing factors exhibit spatial heterogeneity. Positive driving factors exert significant effects on new urban areas and peripheral zones, while negative factors demonstrate pronounced inhibitory effects on old urban areas. Non-linear threshold effects are observed in factors such as subway station density and public transport station density. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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27 pages, 3868 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Evolution and Driving Factors of Coupling Coordination Degree Between New Urbanization and Urban Resilience: A Case of Huaihai Economic Zone

by Heng Zhang, Shuang Li and Jiang Chang

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(7), 271; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14070271 - 9 Jul 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1452

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and climate extremes expose cities to multi-dimensional risks, necessitating the coordinated development of new urbanization and urban resilience for achieving urban sustainability. While existing studies focus on core economic zones like the Yangtze River Delta, secondary economic cooperation regions remain understudied. [...] Read more.

Rapid urbanization and climate extremes expose cities to multi-dimensional risks, necessitating the coordinated development of new urbanization and urban resilience for achieving urban sustainability. While existing studies focus on core economic zones like the Yangtze River Delta, secondary economic cooperation regions remain understudied. This study examined the Huaihai Economic Zone (HEZ)—a quadri-provincial border area—by constructing the evaluation systems for new urbanization and urban resilience. The development indices of the two systems were measured using the entropy weight-CRITIC method. The spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of their coupling coordination degree (CCD) were analyzed through a CCD model, while key driving factors influencing the CCD were investigated using a grey relational analysis model. The results indicated that both the new urbanization construction and urban resilience development indices in the HEZ exhibited a steady upward trend during the study period, with the urban resilience development index surpassing the new urbanization construction index. The new urbanization index increased from 0.3026 (2013) to 0.4702 (2023), and the urban resilience index increased from 0.3520 (2013) to 0.6366 (2023). The CCD between new urbanization and urban resilience reached 0.7368 by 2023, with 80% of cities in the HEZ achieving good coordination types. The variation of the CCD among cities was minimal, revealing a spatially clustered coordinated development pattern. In terms of driving factors, economic development level, public service capacity, and municipal resilience level were identified as core drivers for enhancing coupling coordination. Infrastructure construction, digital capabilities, and spatial intensification served as important supports, while ecological governance capacity remained a weakness. This study establishes a transferable framework for the coordinated development of secondary economic cooperation region, though future research should integrate diverse data sources and expand indicator coverage for higher precision. Moreover, the use of linear models to analyze the key driving factors of the CCD has limitations. The incorporation of non-linear techniques can better elucidate the complex interactions among factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 5155 KB

Open AccessArticle

Temporal Evolution and Convergence Patterns of Urban Expansion in China: Evidence from 315 Cities over Two Decades

by Shengqiang Jing, Fangqu Niu, Jintao Yang and Linda Dai

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(7), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14070241 - 24 Jun 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1282

Abstract

Rapid urbanization in China has driven the continuous expansion of urban land over many years. While most studies have examined the scale, speed, and spatial distribution of urban expansion, few have explored its temporal evolution and convergence patterns. To address this gap, the [...] Read more.

Rapid urbanization in China has driven the continuous expansion of urban land over many years. While most studies have examined the scale, speed, and spatial distribution of urban expansion, few have explored its temporal evolution and convergence patterns. To address this gap, the present study employs kernel density estimation (KDE) and the log t regression test to analyze urban expansion across 315 Chinese cities from 2000 to 2022. Our results reveal that the per capita urban area increased by a factor of 1.58 amid a fluctuating process on a national scale. Moreover, the log t regression test rejects convergence at national and regional levels while identifying six distinct convergence clubs. The evolutionary trajectories of these clubs have diverged over time, with inter-club gaps stabilizing and their spatial distribution exhibiting significant agglomeration. These findings indicate that urban expansion in China remains characterized by multiple equilibria, with imbalanced growth having stabilized. Consequently, effective urban planning, along with the diffusion of capital and technology, may promote a shift towards global convergence in urban expansion dynamics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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27 pages, 9628 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Nonlinear Impacts of Built Environment on Urban Vitality from a Spatiotemporal Perspective at the Block Scale in Chongqing

by Jiayu Yang and Enxu Wang

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(6), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14060225 - 7 Jun 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1714

Abstract

Examining the relationship between built environment (BE) and urban vitality (UV) is beneficial for promoting urban planning, as it deepens the understanding of how spatial design shapes urban life and activity patterns. However, the nonlinear effects of BE on UV from a spatiotemporal [...] Read more.

Examining the relationship between built environment (BE) and urban vitality (UV) is beneficial for promoting urban planning, as it deepens the understanding of how spatial design shapes urban life and activity patterns. However, the nonlinear effects of BE on UV from a spatiotemporal perspective have not been fully explored. In this study, the central urban area of Chongqing at the block scale is selected as a research case. The Gradient Boosting Decision Tree with SHapley Additive exPlanations (GBDT-SHAP) model is used to examine the nonlinear impacts of BE on UV. The results show the following: (1) The BE has a stronger overall impact on UV during holidays. Road intersection density (RID) has the greatest impact on UV on weekdays and holidays, building density (BD) has the greatest impact on weekend mornings, cultural and leisure accessibility (CLA) has the greatest impact on weekend afternoons, and commercial accessibility (CA) has the most significant impact on weekend evenings; (2) the impacts of the BE on UV exhibit significant nonlinear characteristics, with BD and park and square accessibility (PSA) showing a first increasing and then inhibiting effect on UV; lower CA, CLA, and MSA have inhibitory effects on UV, with higher normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values similarly demonstrating such effects; building height (BH), bus stop density (BSD), road network density (RD), and RID have enhancing effects on UV; functional mix degree (FMD) and water proximity index (WPI) show different trends in different time periods; (3) there are significant interactive effects among BE such as BD and BH, CA; RD and WPI, MSA; FMD and BH, PSA; PSA and CLA. A comprehensive understanding of these interactive relationships is crucial for optimizing the BE to enhance UV. This study provides a theoretical basis for urban planners to develop more effective, time-sensitive strategies. Future research should explore these nonlinear and interactive effects across different cities and scales to further generalize the findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 575 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Contractual Governance on Project Performance in Urban Sewage Treatment Public–Private Partnership Projects: The Moderating Role of Administrative Efficiency

by Jialin Gui, Jinbo Song and Wen Xia

Buildings 2025, 15(11), 1858; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15111858 - 28 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1210

Abstract

In public–private partnership (PPP) projects, the private sector’s performance is influenced by administrative efficiency, and the impact varies across different contractual dimensions. Existing research mainly focuses on the influence of project governance on project performance, with few scholars delving into the impact of [...] Read more.

In public–private partnership (PPP) projects, the private sector’s performance is influenced by administrative efficiency, and the impact varies across different contractual dimensions. Existing research mainly focuses on the influence of project governance on project performance, with few scholars delving into the impact of administrative efficiency on the contractual dimensions of PPP projects. To address this gap, this study employs literature analysis to examine the contractual relationships among PPP project stakeholders, identifying four sub-dimensions: responsibility and authority allocation, profit allocation, risk allocation, and accountability. It then investigates the moderating role of administrative efficiency in the relationships between contractual dimensions and project performance, proposing hypotheses and constructing a research model. The findings reveal that all four sub-dimensions of contractual relationships exert significant positive effects on project performance. Specifically, administrative efficiency significantly enhances the positive relationship between responsibility/authority allocation and project performance, as well as between risk allocation and project performance. These results highlight the critical role of administrative efficiency in optimizing contractual mechanisms to improve PPP project outcomes, providing theoretical and practical insights for enhancing contractual governance in PPP projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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21 pages, 3454 KB

Open AccessArticle

Post-Occupancy Evaluation of Campus Learning Spaces with Multi-Modal Spatiotemporal Tracking

by Yiming Guo and Jieli Sui

Buildings 2025, 15(11), 1831; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15111831 - 26 May 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2132

Abstract

As the core carrier of cognitive construction, the design optimization of campus learning space is crucial to the improvement of education quality, but the existing research focuses on the analysis of behavioral preferences and lacks an in-depth analysis of the psychological dynamics of [...] Read more.

As the core carrier of cognitive construction, the design optimization of campus learning space is crucial to the improvement of education quality, but the existing research focuses on the analysis of behavioral preferences and lacks an in-depth analysis of the psychological dynamics of users. Through multimodal questionnaires and spatiotemporal tracking, we developed an ‘expectation–perception–behavior’ framework to quantify discrepancies between users’ visual expectations and actual experiences. The results showed that blue and wood tones significantly enhanced learning efficiency; however, there was a significant difference between facility usability and sound insulation. Based on this, dynamic environment adjustment, virtual reality preview, and modular flexible space strategies are proposed to optimize spatial performance through biophilic design and intelligent regulation. This study provides interdisciplinary methodological innovation for architecture, education, and environmental psychology and promotes the transformation of campus space, injecting new momentum into the transformation of global stock space, the construction of a sustainable education ecology, and contributing to the overall improvement of social cognitive performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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30 pages, 151989 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of TAG (Three-Dimensional Architectural Greening) Scenic Beauty Quantitative Techniques Based on Visual Perception

by Xi Zhou, Ziyang Dong and Fang Zhang

Buildings 2025, 15(9), 1450; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15091450 - 24 Apr 2025

Viewed by 1029

Abstract

Three-dimensional architectural greening (TAG) enables the integration of ecological, economic, and social advantages via the effective use of multidimensional space in a variety of forms, making it a significant method for enhancing spatial quality in densely populated cities. TAG technology has expanded the [...] Read more.

Three-dimensional architectural greening (TAG) enables the integration of ecological, economic, and social advantages via the effective use of multidimensional space in a variety of forms, making it a significant method for enhancing spatial quality in densely populated cities. TAG technology has expanded the scope and capabilities of urban greening. It has the ability to provide green space, improve urban ecology and aesthetics, and alleviate the conflict between limited land resources and rising demand for greening throughout the urbanization process. Currently, there is a lack of a systematic assessment approach that focuses on the public’s visual perception of TAG. It is critical to focus on advances in visual perception approaches and create a “people-oriented perception driven” evaluation system that serves as a scientific foundation for urban three-dimensional greening initiatives. First, this study created a database of 300 TAG cases and selected classic cases using screening, classification, and sampling. Second, three experiments were set up for the study, including the use of the semantic differential (SD) method, and scenic beauty estimation (SBE) for subjective evaluation, and the eye-tracking experiment for objective evaluation. Finally, this study compared subjective and objective evaluations and demonstrated that both two approaches had a certain amount of accuracy. It also investigated the relationship between spatial features and public visual perceptions using methods such as factor and correlation analysis. The three effective methods for evaluating the quality of TAG based on visual perception that are presented in this study—two subjective and one objective—use standardized images, are quick and simple to use, and make up for the drawbacks of conventional strategies like indirectness, inefficiency, and time-consuming data collection. They also form a solid foundation for the real-world application of categorization prediction. In addition to being adaptable to a wide range of application settings, these two assessment paths—subjective evaluation and objective evaluation—can be integrated to complement one another and provide scientific references for future TAG designs and spatial decision making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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26 pages, 8804 KB

Open AccessArticle

Progressive Framework for Analyzing Driving Mechanisms of Ecosystem Services in Resource-Exhausted Cities: A Case Study of Fushun, China

by Yuyan Pan, Yanpeng Gao and Hongchang Qian

Land 2025, 14(5), 913; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14050913 - 22 Apr 2025

Viewed by 1118

Abstract

The rapid pace of urbanization has led to excessive resource consumption and worsening environmental pollution, particularly in resource-based cities, where prolonged exploitation of mineral resources has resulted in dual challenges of ecological degradation and economic imbalance. Using Fushun, a resource-exhausted city still struggling [...] Read more.

The rapid pace of urbanization has led to excessive resource consumption and worsening environmental pollution, particularly in resource-based cities, where prolonged exploitation of mineral resources has resulted in dual challenges of ecological degradation and economic imbalance. Using Fushun, a resource-exhausted city still struggling with its transformation, as a case study, this research develops a progressive analytical framework that integrates the InVEST model, optimal parameter geographic detector, and multi-scale geographically weighted regression. This framework, comprising a sequence of analytical steps—single-factor analysis, interaction-factor analysis, global regression analysis, and geographically weighted regression analysis—enables a comprehensive exploration of the driving mechanisms behind ES changes in Fushun from 2000 to 2020. The results indicate the following: (1) Significant changes in ecosystem services were observed, with water yield and soil conservation showing a fluctuating upward trend, while carbon storage and habitat quality experienced slight declines. (2) Over time, the dominant drivers transitioned from primarily socio-economic factors to a synergistic influence of natural and human activities. GDP and land use intensity increasingly contributed to explaining ecosystem services through their interaction effects. (3) At the street scale, driving mechanisms exhibited spatial heterogeneity. For instance, the negative effects of built-up land and cultivated land were more pronounced in urban–rural transition zones, while elevation and NDVI had a more positive impact in ecological source areas. This framework provides systematic and targeted recommendations that offer data-driven insights to guide policies prioritizing regional ecological sustainability. Furthermore, it provides practical reference points for improving the ecological quality of other coal resource-exhausted cities undergoing incomplete transformations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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40 pages, 3470 KB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Tourists’ Perceptions of Community-Based Ecotourism (CBET) After COVID-19 Pandemic: A Study on the Country of Origin and Economic Development Level

by Flavia Dana Oltean, Petru Alexandru Curta, Benedek Nagy, Arzu Huseyn and Manuela Rozalia Gabor

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(4), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14040146 - 27 Mar 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 6054

Abstract

(1) Background: This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourists’ perceptions of community-based ecotourism (CBET) in Romania and Spain, taking into account country of origin and economic development. In order to provide insights for sustainable tourism development and policymaking, this [...] Read more.

(1) Background: This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourists’ perceptions of community-based ecotourism (CBET) in Romania and Spain, taking into account country of origin and economic development. In order to provide insights for sustainable tourism development and policymaking, this study aims to investigate how the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced tourists’ perceptions of community-based ecotourism (CBET) in Romania and Spain, taking into account differences in country of origin and economic development. (2) Methods: An online questionnaire was administered to 703 ecotourists (353 Romanian, 350 Spanish). (3) Results: The results show statistically significant differences between the two countries regarding the perception of ecotourism principles, information sources and preferred activities. For example, Romanians showed stronger agreement with ecotourism’s positive contribution to local communities and minimal environmental impact than Spaniards (p < 0.01 for EP3, EP4 and EP6). Significant correlations were found between specific ecotourism elements and preferred activities within each country, highlighting different preferences. Multilinear regression analysis showed that gender and region of origin significantly predicted perceptions of the role of ecotourism in biodiversity conservation for Spain. (4) Conclusions: Policy recommendations include targeted awareness campaigns, increased community involvement and cross-cultural collaboration to promote sustainable CBET development. This comparative study fills a gap in CBET research by contrasting perceptions in Eastern and Western European countries with different levels of economic development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 8493 KB

Open AccessArticle

Nonlinear Effects of Human Settlements on Seasonal Land Surface Temperature Variations at the Block Scale: A Case Study of the Central Urban Area of Chengdu

by Muze Zhang, Tong Hou, Yuping Ma, Mindong Liang, Jiayu Yang, Fengshuo Sun and Enxu Wang

Land 2025, 14(4), 693; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14040693 - 25 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1263

Abstract

The land surface temperature (LST) in the central urban area has shown a consistent upward trend over the years, exacerbating the surface urban heat island (SUHI) effect. Therefore, this study focuses on the central urban area of Chengdu, using blocks as the research [...] Read more.

The land surface temperature (LST) in the central urban area has shown a consistent upward trend over the years, exacerbating the surface urban heat island (SUHI) effect. Therefore, this study focuses on the central urban area of Chengdu, using blocks as the research scale. The Gradient Boosting Decision Tree (GBDT) model and SHAP values are employed to explore the nonlinear effects of human settlements (HS) on LST across different seasons. The results show that (1) At the block scale, the overall impact of HS on LST across all four seasons tracks the following order: built environment (BE) > landscape pattern (LP) > socio-economic development (SED). (2) LP is the most important factor affecting LST in summer, while the BE has the greatest influence on LST during spring, autumn, and winter. (3) Most HS indicators exhibit seasonal variations in their impact on LST. The impervious surface area (ISA) exhibits a significant positive impact on LST during spring, summer, and autumn. In contrast, the nighttime light index (NTL) and functional mix degree (FMD) exert a significant negative influence on LST in spring, autumn, and winter. Additionally, the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) negatively affects LST in both spring and summer. Moreover, connectivity (CNT) and functional density (FPD) demonstrate notable threshold effects in their influence on LST. (4) Certain HS indicators exhibit interaction effects, and some combinations of these indicators can effectively reduce LST. This study reveals HS–LST interactions through multidimensional analysis, offering block-scale seasonal planning strategies for sustainable urban thermal optimization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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25 pages, 7350 KB

Open AccessArticle

Coupled Water–Energy–Carbon Study of the Agricultural Sector in the Great River Basin: Empirical Evidence from the Yellow River Basin, China

by Jingwei Song, Jianhui Cong, Yuqing Liu, Weiqiang Zhang, Ran Liang and Jun Yang

Systems 2025, 13(3), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13030160 - 26 Feb 2025

Viewed by 1077

Abstract

In the context of sustainable development, water resources, energy, and carbon emissions are pivotal factors influencing the rational planning of economic development and the secure establishment of ecological barriers. As a core food production area, how can the Great River Basin balance the [...] Read more.

In the context of sustainable development, water resources, energy, and carbon emissions are pivotal factors influencing the rational planning of economic development and the secure establishment of ecological barriers. As a core food production area, how can the Great River Basin balance the pressure on the “water–energy–carbon” system (WEC) to realize the coordinated development of “nature–society–economy”? Taking the Yellow River Basin in China as the research object, this paper explores the coupling characteristics and virtual transfer trends of WEC in the agricultural sector under the condition of mutual constraints. The results show the following: (1) On the dynamic coupling characteristics, W-E and E-C are strongly coupled with each other. The optimization of water resource allocation and the development of energy-saving water use technology make the W-E consumption show a downward trend, and the large-scale promotion of agricultural mechanization makes the E-C consumption show an upward trend. (2) On the spatial distribution of transfer, there is an obvious path dependence of virtual WEC transfer, showing a trend of transfer from less developed regions to developed regions, and the coupling strength decreases from developed regions to less developed regions. The assumption of producer responsibility serves to exacerbate the problem of inter-regional development imbalances. (3) According to the cross-sectoral analysis, water resources are in the center of sectoral interaction, and controlling the upstream sector of the resource supply will indirectly affect the synergistic relationship of WEC, and controlling the downstream sector of resource consumption will indirectly affect the constraint relationship of WEC. This study provides theoretical and methodological references for the Great River Basin to cope with the resource and environmental pressure brought by global climate change and the effective allocation of inter-regional resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)

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