Theoretical framework and formation mechanism of the green development system model in China

Abstract

Green development (GD) is a complex adaptive system (CAS) closely related to the social, economic, and natural environment. Facing environmental degradation due to the rapid economic and social development, the Chinese government has made important strategic decisions about GD. This study thus proposes a theoretical framework to explain the GD system (GDS) in China and its formation mechanism. First, it identified the components of the Chinese GDS in the literature. Second, using a mathematical model, the theoretical framework of the GDS model in China was constructed based on CAS and knowledge element (KE) theory and tested using 1999–2017 panel survey data. Finally, based on Maslow's hierarchy of needs (MHN), the formation mechanism of the GDS was explained. The results are as follows. The presence of GDS in China has a significant positive correlation with mountains (M), water (W), forests (Fo), farmland (Fa), lakes (L), grassland (G), human (H), production subsystems (PS), living subsystems (LS), and legal institutions and policy subsystem (LIPS). The more important the GD concept, the higher the level of GDS in China. The proposed theoretical framework is congruent with China's contextual background and explains the approach to the environment based on China's development strategy. The study's conclusions are as follows. (1) The GDS model in China is a knowledge-complex massive dynamic system with the characteristics of people-oriented and harmonious coexistence of M-W-Fo-Fa-L-G. GD concepts are included in the model in terms of PS, LS, and LIPS. (2) Human beings drive, maintain, and operate GDS throughout China. (3) Chinese GDS began with the need for black development (BD) and progressed due to BD's negative consequences. Further, the need for GD emerged, promoting the formation of Chinese GDS through the growth of green behaviour.