ELABORATING STRATEGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN CHINA REGIONS: KEY PRINCIPLES

Abstract

As a form of regional spatial organisation, regional territorial communities have become the basic regional unit for a country to participate in global competition and international division of labour. Their development has a profound impact on the competitiveness of a country and is of great significance to the sustainable and stable development of the national economy. Cities constitute a significant part of China’s regional territorial communities. With the rapid growth of urbanisation in China, a series of problems, such as resource shortage, environmental pollution, and ecological destruction, have become highly concentrated and intensified, threatening regional sustainable development and national security. The fundamental reason that restricts the realisation of the ultimate goal of sustainable development of regional territorial communities is the lack of holistic, systematic and sustainable methods and policies. Therefore, this study aims to put forward key principles for regional territorial communities' strategic planning in China by analysing the main elements of the sustainable development concept. Strengthening scientific and technological publicity, creating a favourable environment conducive to scientific and technological progress and independent innovation, and facilitating the training and introduction of talents are suggested to improve sustainable development's science and technology element. Concerning the economic subsystem, the main efforts should be made to change the extensive economic growth mode, develop the tertiary industry, and adjust the industrial system in backward areas. When making strategic decisions concerning social issues, it is advisable to focus on factors affecting the community’s social sustainability (infrastructure, access to public facilities, equality and fairness) and make proper planning and guidance. For the environmental dimension of regional sustainable development, the most critical issues to be solved are the efficient use of land resources and the strengthening of the environmental governance role and functions.