China’s Urban Agglomerations

This comprehensive study examines urban agglomerations in China, proposing a sustainable development framework and strategic growth model for future urban planning.

In China’s Urban Agglomerations, the authors meticulously analyze over 32,000 works related to urban agglomerations spanning the last 120 years. This extensive research aims to establish a theoretically grounded and practically applicable definition of urban agglomeration. The book delves into the fundamental characteristics, spatiotemporal differentiation, and challenges faced by China’s urban agglomerations over the past 35 years, offering insights into sustainable development practices.

The authors advocate for a strategic focus on the construction and sustainable development of five key national-level urban agglomerations. Additionally, they propose the gradual establishment of nine regional urban agglomerations and the guided growth of six local ones. This hierarchical structure, termed “5+9+6,” is envisioned to create a closely integrated urban agglomeration framework that supports sustainable urbanization across China.

Furthermore, China’s Urban Agglomerations explores innovative strategies for developing urban areas that are ecologically friendly, intelligent, and market-oriented. The authors emphasize the importance of coordinating urban agglomeration development with the “two belts and one road” initiative, aiming to create a national urbanization strategy that effectively connects and supports urban areas. This book serves as a vital resource for scholars, policymakers, and graduate students engaged in urban development and environmental protection.