The impact of teleconnections of built-up land on unbalanced regional development and spatial carbon balance

Abstract

The rapid expansion of built-up land in China contributes to the great differences in regional development, which has impacted balanced regional development. Analysis on teleconnections of built-up land can better understand the mechanism of spatial imbalance, thus promoting the achievement of overall carbon neutrality. We attempt to quantify the degree of unbalanced regional development based on teleconnections of built-up land in China. Results reveal an increase in external dependence in developed regions, with the economic growth in these regions driving the expansion of built-up land in undeveloped regions. Undeveloped regions primarily serve as suppliers of land for the mining and manufacturing industry, while developed regions export substantial land for the service industry. There is considerable variation in the environmental-economic benefits among regions: While each province experiences economic gains from built-up land expansion, differences in land utilization efficiency contribute to a significant development gap among regions. This divergence in development levels exacerbates the unbalanced regional development in China, a trend that is currently widening. It is imperative for developed regions to assume greater responsibility in achieving carbon neutrality. This involves providing economic and technological support to undeveloped regions, fostering a more equitable and sustainable development path.