Spatiotemporal patterns and driving factors of green and low-carbon urbanization in the Yangtze River Delta region, China

Abstract

Abstract Green and low-carbon urbanization (GLCU) stands as a key objective within the realm of urban sustainable development. The extent of coordination between urbanization and low-carbon development determines the level of GLCU. However, the complex driving mechanism of GLCU has not garnered the required attention within the existing of literature. In light of this, the present paper introduces a multi-dimensional comprehensive evaluation framework aimed at assessing the level of GLCU. Specifically, it delves into the spatial-temporal characteristics and driving forces that underpin GLCU. The results indicate that the level of GLCU evolved from low coordination to moderate coordination from 2005 to 2020 in the Yangtze River Delta region. Yet, the trade-off between urbanization and low-carbon development still exists. The surge in population density and economic prosperity emerged as the principal positive drivers of GLCU, while the carbon emissions intensity exerted a negative influence. Furthermore, the effect of industrial structure shifted from a positive driver to a negative one. The effects of these drivers upon GLCU varied at different urbanization stages and determined the patterns of urban development, indicating that policies for sustainable development should be tailored for the cities at different urbanization stages.