Regional Development Policy Research Articles

The impact of development zone upgrading on carbon emission reduction: examining China’s regional development policies

The impact of development zone upgrading on carbon emission reduction: examining China’s regional development policies

Climate variability and its long-term trends in central Taraba, Nigeria: implications for local ecosystems and rural livelihoods

This study examines the long-term trends of climate variability in Central Taraba, Nigeria, with a focus on analyzing temperature and rainfall patterns from 1980 to 2020. Central Taraba has witnessed notable shifts in climate patterns, characterized by increasing temperatures, erratic rainfall, and prolonged periods of drought and excessive rainfall. These climatic changes pose significant threats to local ecosystems and rural livelihoods, which rely heavily on rain-fed agriculture and natural resources. The research highlights significant fluctuations in both rainfall and temperature, underscoring the challenges posed by climate variability to the region’s ecological and socio-economic systems. The primary objectives of this study are to examine the extent of climate variability on key ecosystem services, assess its impacts on local livelihoods, and identify sustainable management strategies to address these effects. Results show a clear upward trend in both minimum and maximum temperatures across the study area, with some towns experiencing more pronounced increases in minimum temperatures. Rainfall patterns reveal an erratic trend with periods of both drought and excessive rainfall, though a slight but statistically insignificant downward trend in rainfall was observed in most towns. These climatic shifts have profound implications for agriculture, water resources, and rural livelihoods, as communities in the region heavily depend on rain-fed farming and natural ecosystems for sustenance. The study also underscores the pressing need for adaptive strategies such as climate-resilient agriculture and improved water resource management to mitigate the adverse effects of climate variability. Recommendations emphasize strengthening community resilience and integrating climate data into regional development policies to safeguard local livelihoods and ecosystems from future climate-related risks.

Leave or stay? The determinants of the migration behavior of university graduates in Shanghai

ABSTRACT Millions of university graduates in China either stay in the cities where they go to universities (for their bachelor’s degree) or migrate to other areas each year. What factors determine their destination choice? This paper investigates migration patterns of university graduates from Shanghai among the university city, hometown, and other cities, and the roles of general factors and special Chinese factors such as hukou in graduate mobility. The main findings are as follows. First, key factors that attract graduates to stay in the university city, return to their hometown, or go to other cities are different and one factor may not have the same impact. Second, there are specific spatial patterns of migration from different types of hometowns to three destination types, as different types of hometowns offer different life experiences as well as opportunities in the spatial administrative system. There is a strong preference for Chinese graduates to move up the urban hierarchy to bigger cities than their hometowns. Third, the impacts of some general factors such as housing price, social capital, and human capital are similar to those of Western countries. The impacts of hukou vary. Although graduates have local hukou in their hometowns, most graduates from big cities, towns, and villages prefer not to return to their hometowns. Only graduates from small and medium-sized cities consider returning to their hometowns. But if graduates go to other cities, they do consider hukou factor. Our research has significant implications for urban and regional development and talent policies in China.

Can transportation networks contribute to the sustainable development of urban agglomeration spatial structures?

The advancements in global urbanisation have significantly elevated the configuration of transportation networks for the sustainable development of urban agglomeration spatial structures (UASS). Using a comprehensive panel dataset covering 140 counties and districts in the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle from 2014 to 2023, this study empirically examines the impact of transportation networks on the sustainability of UASS. It elucidates the underlying mechanisms using spatial Durbin, spatial spillover and multiple mediation effect models. The findings reveal that transportation networks considerably enhance the sustainability of UASS and generate substantial positive spatial spillover effects. The decay boundary of the spatial spillover effects exhibits a transition from positive to negative, eventually approaching ineffectiveness. The heterogeneity analysis indicates significant variations in terms of transportation network expansion and regional functional division on the sustainability of UASS across regions with various levels of economic development. This outcome suggests that regional development policies should carefully consider regional economic development disparities. The mechanism analysis further reveals that transportation networks enable the sustainability of UASS by accelerating regional hierarchical systems and regional connectivity.

A Study on the Impact of Talent Introduction Policies on Urban Mobility - A Literature Review

China is currently in a period of profound economic transformation, where the role of human resources in regional economic and social development has become increasingly pivotal. As the economy shifts towards a more innovative and knowledge-intensive model, the demand for high-skilled talent has risen sharply. In response to this trend, local governments have implemented various talent introduction policies aimed at attracting and retaining talent to promote high-quality economic development. This paper reveals the relationship between the implementation of talent acquisition policies and the mobility of high-skilled and low-skilled populations through a literature review of research on talent acquisition policies and population mobility. As an important and widely used regional development policy by local governments, the talent introduction policy has created a strong attraction to the mobility of labor, increasing the talent concentration of labor and knowledge overflow. The above conclusions are useful for the government to optimize the talent admission policy and the strategy of strengthening the country with talent.

Regional planning: A failed or flawed project for Africa? Taking advantage of big data science on the horizon

This paper explores regional planning as an applied field of practice in Africa, where it is observed as a failed project or a flawed endeavour. In theory, regional planning (the practice) is based on regional science (the field of study) from which regional policy and regional development flow. The article advances the argument that Africa did not benefit from regional science in the past due to data scarcity. However, with the advent of big data and the data deluge caused by big data, regional science and regional planning stand to benefit. We argue that with the proliferation of big data, Africa can now tap into its opportunities and correct its ‘ugly’ past regarding regional planning. With big data and artificial intelligence (AI)-tools, coupled with skilled and capable people, Africa can effectively mine data and catch up with global trends in urban and regional planning. The study concludes that there is a need to embrace big data and mine data for African regional science and regional planning to be successful. In addition, the African regional planning project was not a failure, but it suffered a stillbirth due to a lack of data and related infrastructure.

Biomass combined heat and power for renewable power provision in mountain environments: techno-economic assessment of cost factors and competitiveness under current and projected energy market conditions

Abstract Bioenergy is seen as a renewable energy source expected to deliver a major contribution to decarbonization of power and heat by major institutions, although its affordability in specific contexts has not been assessed in detail by the available literature. In this study, we develop a techno-economic model of a small-scale decentralized biomass gasification-combined heat and power plant based on real operating data and costs. The results obtained indicate that in the Italian mountain context, the proposed solution would deliver very limited competitiveness compared to natural gas fired generation or grid electricity in Europe, with a levelized cost of energy of 359 €/MWh for a 225-kW plant. Sensitivity analyses show that the average yearly operating hours is by far the greatest cost factor affecting plant economics, while a forecast of natural gas prices allowed estimating the subsidization requirements of the system over its full project life, indicating total subsidy of €149.4M even under a 120 €/t carbon emission allowance cost placed on natural gas. The methodology and results proposed represent an important further step in the direction of sound regional bioenergy planning and support policy development.

Supervised land cover classification of Nueva Ecija using random forest in google earth

Land cover classification is essential for environmental monitoring, urban planning, and sustainable land use management. This study presents a supervised land cover classification in Nueva Ecija, Philippines, utilizing Google Earth Engine (GEE) and the Random Forest (RF) algorithm, applied to Landsat 8 imagery. A total of 1,523 samples were collected representing five land cover types: built-up areas, agricultural lands, water bodies, forests, and barren land. The classification achieved an overall accuracy of 87.69% with a Kappa coefficient of 0.841. Future work should explore the integration of seasonal imagery and topographic indices for improved performance. This methodology provides crucial insights for resource management and supports regional policy development in Nueva Ecija.

The Impact Analysis of the Digital Economy on Green Total Factor Productivity in the Yangtze River Delta Urban Agglomeration

The deep integration of digitalization and greening is a driving force for promoting high-quality economic development. The rapid development of the digital economy empowers green innovation, and the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration, as the most developed region in China's economy, carries an important mission for the future economic and social development of China. Clarifying the differences and influencing factors of digital economy and green total factor productivity (GTFP) among different cities within the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration is of great significance for formulating regional and national green development policies, achieving regional coordinated development, and environmental sustainability. This paper takes the impact of digital economy development on changes in GTFP as the starting point. Through the analysis of innovation efficiency, a theoretical model is established to reveal the internal mechanism by which digital economy development promotes GTFP. The research results show that digital economy development significantly promotes the improvement of GTFP, with greater impacts on large and medium-sized cities, regions with higher productivity levels, and regions with a more advanced industrial structure. Additionally, the internal mechanism test results indicate that digital economy development enhances GTFP by improving regional innovation efficiency and resource allocation efficiency.

Analysis of The Leading Sector for Regional Development: A Case Study of Batam, Bintan, and Karimun (BBK), Riau Islands Province, Indonesia

Abstract: Spatial planning in Batam, Bintan, and Karimun (BBK) areas is prioritized because it has an important impact on the national economy. This research aims to identify the potential leading sectors in the BBK areas as a reference in regional development. This study uses time series data on Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) based on constant prices in the BBK areas from 2011 to 2021. The analytical tools used in this research are Location Quotient to identify basic and non-basic sectors, Shift Share Analysis to determine changes and shifts in sectors, and Klassen Typology to determine the classification of sector in each region. The three analytical tools combined results demonstrate that economic growth in Batam is supported by the processing sector. A growing sector in Bintan is related to the tourism. Economic potential in Karimun dominated by the agricultural, forestry, and marine sectors. Tanjungpinang’s economic potential is dominated by the service sector, which supports the city’s role as the capital of the Riau Islands Province. However, the fisheries sector has not developed optimally. As an archipelago, regional development policies in the BBK areas should develop other sectors to optimize the maritime economic potential. Keywords: Klassen Typology, Location Quotient, Leading Sectors, National Strategic Areas, Shift Share Analysis

Regional Development Policies in Afghanistan and Neighboring Countries: A Comparative Analysis

This essay explores the regional development policies applied in Afghanistan and its neighboring countries using a comparative qualitative analysis method. It focuses on infrastructure development, human capital investment, regional integration, and technological innovation policies. It compares development policies in China, Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan highlighting key projects which have fostered regional connectivity and economic growth. By comparing these policies, the essay evaluates how these initiatives have contributed to reducing regional disparities. This study aims to provide insights into how regional development policies can address Afghanistan’s socio-economic disparities and promote sustainable development. Despite notable successes, the research identifies ongoing challenges such as political instability, limited financial resources, and weak regional cooperation that impede further progress in Afghanistan. Key policy recommendations for Afghanistan include enhancing regional cooperation, investing in technological infrastructure, and developing human capital to achieve sustainable growth and stability.

The Impact of Toll Road Development on Urbanization Typology and Economic Structure (Case Study: Palikanci Toll Road in Ciledug District, Cirebon Regency)

This study examines the impact of toll roads on regional growth, specifically focusing on the Ciledug District, which has been crossed by the Palikanci Toll Road since 2009. The research identifies the typology of urbanization and assesses changes in the area’s economic structure due to the toll road. A mixed method approach was used, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection, land change analysis via Google Earth and ArcGis 13.1, and field observations of land use. The findings reveal gentrification in the northern part of Ciledug, marked by the growth of business centers in Jatiseeng and rising land prices. This has led to the expansion of settlements toward the southern area, particularly in Jatiseeng Kidul. The toll road and the industrial estate in North Ciledug have accelerated the transformation of the local economy, with residents diversifying their livelihoods to adapt to urbanization. However, the study also notes a lack of improvement in essential infrastructure services, suggesting that regional development policies have not yet adapted to the gentrification, posing risks of urban sprawl.

‘Grand designs?’ Investigating the cultural and spatial logics of Channel 4’s media hub workspaces in Leeds, Bristol and Glasgow

This article explores the evolving spatiality of media production through an analysis of recent developments in UK broadcaster Channel 4’s move to a multi-site operating model. Historically, media buildings have served as landmarks of power and influence, embodying the aspirations and identities of media organisations and, as such, offer a fruitful lens for the specific exploration of the spaces of contemporary media production. Through a detailed analysis of Channel 4’s decision-making process, site selections and the significance of the chosen buildings within areas with an urban regeneration focus, the study investigates the complex interplay between media industry dynamics, regional development policies, and wider political and economic forces. Drawing on a range of academic literature and evidence from media, industry and policy reporting, the article highlights the strategic motivations behind Channel 4’s decentralisation efforts, positioned by the organisation as an effort to address diversity in terms of nations and regions representation but significantly shaped by political factors. However, it also raises critical questions about the long-term sustainability, economic viability and cultural impact of these relocation decisions. The article discusses how Channel 4’s regional media spaces and decentralisation reflect the impermanence and crisis facing Public Service Media, emphasising the shifting power dynamics within the media landscape and the need for adaptive strategies in an increasingly volatile industry environment. By examining the evolving investment in media buildings, this research contributes to a growing body of research seeking to understand the complex dynamics shaping contemporary media landscapes and urban environments.

Coordinated Regional Economic Development: A Study of the Relationship Between Regional Policies and Business Performance

Abstract In the context of the global spread of the Corona Virus Disease 2019, improving enterprise performance, promoting regional economic development, and solving the problem of unbalanced and inadequate regional development are important considerations for regional policy formulation. To understand the relationship between regional policies and corporate performance, this study starts with theories related to regional policies and corporate performance, and proposes two hypotheses. The Western Development, Northeast Revitalization of the Old Industrial Base, and Central Rise Plan are selected as typical representatives of regional policies, and the hypotheses are verified through a double difference model. The results showed that regional policies could improve corporate performance, especially for state-owned enterprises (SOEs). The correlation between the revitalization of the old industrial base in Northeast China and the performance of SOEs was strong, with a correlation coefficient of 0.832. When conducting robustness tests by changing time periods, the correlation values between the performance of SOEs and policies in the three policy implementation areas of revitalizing Northeast China, western development, and central rise were 0.887, 0.764, and 0.652, respectively. Compared to non-SOEs, SOEs had a more significant effect on regional policy improvement. This conclusion was consistent with the empirical results of hypotheses 1 and 2. Based on this foundation, recommendations are offered for the suitability of regional policies to furnish theoretical frameworks for enhancing the regional policy structure and augmenting the precision and inclusivity of regional policy development. The research model is utilized to reveal the important role of regional policies in promoting enterprise performance improvement and promoting regional economic development. It can provide strong evidence support for policy makers. The study offers a scientific theoretical basis and empirical support that assist policymakers in comprehending policy objectives and implementation strategies with greater precision. Therefore, the coordinated advancement of regional economic development is facilitated.

Quality of life modeling in Saint Petersburg and the Northwest regions

Subject: application of the quality economics methodology to obtain scientifically based assessments of the quality of life in the regions of the Northwestern Federal District. The purpose of the study: research development related to the search for possible areas of impact on the socio-economic system that contribute to improving the population’s quality of life in the context of digitalization (according to the data from St. Petersburg and the regions of the Northwestern Federal District). In the course of the study, a quality of life model was created for the regions of the Northwestern Federal District. A basic and comprehensive assessment of the quality of life was carried out, so now we can trace the more than ten-year dynamics of the indicator, group the regions, identify and justify their common and accusatory features in the context of the study. An analysis of individual characteristics of the quality of life in the Northwestern Federal District regions has shown that it is possible to measure the contribution that medical and demographic conditions, socio-economic well-being, comfort and safety of the living environment make to the quality of life indicator. Based on the results of the study, it was concluded that it is important to assess the contribution of these components to determine the direction of regional development policy. In the interests of revealing promising opportunities for obtaining algorithmic solutions in the field of standardization of quality of life management in the region, a new format of a multi-level quality management system is proposed. The use of a digitalized format for managerial decision-making in a multi-level quality management system will greatly increase their effectiveness by expanding the capabilities of analyzing complex data without clear relationships, including for forecasting and optimizing processes occurring at the local, regional, and national levels.

Peran Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat Kabupaten Aceh Singkil dalam Rencana Kebijakan Pembangunan Daerah Berdasarkan Peraturan Menteri dalam Negeri Nomor 86 Tahun 2017

The Regional People's Representative Council's Pokir is the result of absorbing community aspirations conveyed by members of the Regional People's Representative Council in official and informal forums. This Pokir aims to ensure that regional development policies reflect the needs and desires of the local community.To determine the role of the Aceh Singkil Regency People's Representative Council in formulating regional development policy plans through the Main Thoughts (Pokir) of the Regency People's Representative Council In legal research, there are two types of research, namely normative (doctrinal) research and empirical research. The type of research used in compiling this thesis is a combination of normative (doctrinal) research and empirical research. Data collection methods are techniques or methods that can be used by researchers to collect data. Techniques in designating an abstract word that is not manifested in objects, but can only be seen in its use through: questionnaires, interviews, observations, exams (tests), documentation, and others. The data analysis technique used in this legal research uses qualitative analysis methods Based on the results of the study, the Regency People's Representative Council also plays a role in determining the regional budget that will fund various development programs. In this process, the District People's Representative Council must ensure that the budget prepared reflects the development priorities that have been set based on community aspirations. Thus, the District People's Representative Council not only acts as a political representative, but also as a supervisor of budget use to ensure transparency and accountability in regional financial management. The results of the discussion regarding the role of the Aceh Singkil District People's Representative Council (DPRK) in preparing the main ideas (Pokir) show that the DPRK has a crucial role in regional development policy planning. In accordance with the Regulation of the Minister of Home Affairs Number 86 of 2017, the DPRK functions as a liaison between the community and the regional government by preparing Pokir that reflects the aspirations and needs of the community.So it can be concluded that according to the regulations, the District People's Representative Council is tasked with preparing the Main Ideas (Pokir) which are the results of absorbing community aspirations. This Pokir is then submitted to the regional government to be used as a basis for preparing development planning documents, such as the Regional Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMD) and the Regional Government Work Plan (RKPD).

Exploring the role of regional capacity in human resource development in Indonesia

The role of local government in regional development planning is an essential topic in the context of sustainable local development. This study aimed to analyze the role of local governments in regional development planning and their impact on the effectiveness and sustainability of development at the local level. The research method used is a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis related to regional development policies and regulations. This research was conducted in several districts/cities in certain regions, considering diverse geographical, social, and economic contexts. The results showed that the role of local governments in regional development planning is vital in coordinating various interests, resources, and related actors. Local governments act as regulators, facilitators, and implementers in determining the direction, policies, and allocation of development resources. In addition, community and private-sector involvement is also recognized as an integral part of democratic and inclusive planning processes. The impact of the role of local governments in regional development planning can be seen in increasing the effectiveness of development programs, increasing community participation, reducing regional disparities, and improving the community’s quality of life. Nevertheless, challenges such as corruption, lack of interagency coordination, and political uncertainty remain obstacles that must be overcome. This study concludes that the role of local governments in regional development planning is a critical factor in achieving sustainable regional development. Therefore, measures are needed to strengthen institutional capacity, increase transparency, and strengthen public participation to ensure sustainable and inclusive development planning at the local level.

The bibliometric analysis of regional innovations of Kazakhstan in the context of Triple Helix model

This research aims to conduct an analysis of scientific literature on issues related to regional innovation in the context of Triple Helix model, including Kazakhstan. In order to accomplish the objective, the bibliometric analysis was carried out using four primary search strings: “Triple Helix and Kazakhstan,” “Kazakhstan regional innovation,” “Regional Innovation and Triple Helix,” and “Regional Innovation.” The bibliometric analysis was conducted using the computer softwares VOSviewer, the computerized databases Scopus and Web of Science. Establishing links and relationships was achieved through the use of the computer software VOSViewer, which automatically applied methods of co-occurrence and keyword analysis. The results obtained from the areas mentioned earlier, particularly in the context of Kazakhstan and the publication output and connections within Triple Helix, are limited. It was revealed that in Kazakhstan there is a small amount of scientific research on regional innovation in the context of the Triple Helix model, which reflects the economic situation when the Triple Helix model is not sufficiently integrated into the state policy of regional development to study it. Kazakhstani policymakers and scholars focus on regional economic growth development as a strategy rather than integrating innovation models or the Triple Helix model in regional development. The primary contribution of this paper is to highlight the limited availability of literature and research on the topic at hand. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for further investigation and serves as a potential agenda for policymakers and scholars interested in regional development and innovation in Kazakhstan and other countries.

Applying the driver-pressure-state-impact-response model to ecological restoration: A case study of comprehensive zoning and benefit assessment in Zhejiang Province, China

Ecosystem degradation is a global problem that poses a significant threat to the sustainable development of human societies, particularly in developing countries, such as China. In response, China has implemented a series of ecological restoration (ER) policies over recent years. However, significant regional developmental disparities, pronounced spatial heterogeneity of ecological issues, and substantial historical debt for ER in China present considerable obstacles and financial burdens to the effective implementation of ER strategies. Delineating ER zones and assessing the ER benefits are essential for developing effective ER strategies and implementing ER projects. In this study, we constructed a comprehensive framework for ER utilizing the Driver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) model, quantified the urbanization levels, ecological state, and restoration costs in Zhejiang Province to delineate ER zones, integrated the patch-generating land use simulation model with the ecosystem service value assessment method to quantify the benefits of ER, and ultimately developed tailored ER strategies. The results showed that: (1) The pattern of urbanization levels was characterized by high levels in the northeast and low levels in the southwest, which constrated with the ecological state. The areas of high restoration costs were located in the northeastern and southeastern regions, and the areas of low restoration costs were situated in the southwestern region. (2) The rate of construction land expansion is significantly curtailed under the ER scenario compared to the natural development scenario in 2035, while forest areas have seen effective protection and an increase from the levels of 2020. (3) The ER policy is projected to generate ecological benefits totaling CNY 8.23 billion by 2035, substantially reducing the rate of ecosystem degradation. (4) Zhejiang Province is divided into five zones at the county scale: ecological autonomous protection zone, ecological core protection zone, ecological priority restoration zone, ecological control zone, and moderate development zone. Strategies have been devised based on the forecasted benefits of ER, offering valuable insights into ecological management. These findings aim to enhance the understanding of ER and support the development and implementation of regional ecological policies.

Responsible urban development policy: criteria, subjects, prospects

This article examines the primary directions of contemporary urban development policy, along with the issues and contradictions associated with its scientific research and practical implementation. The study aims to conceptualize the concept of “responsible urban development” as a complex of approaches and practices that hold promise for integration into practical urban and regional development policies, and to typologize potential approaches to implementing such policies. The authors use an institutional approach, the methodology of identity studies, the structural-functional approach and a case study. The article investigates quantitative and qualitative indicators, the key challenges and tasks of urban development policy, with a particular focus on the resources of modern urban development. The authors note that relying on a limited set of indicators does not provide the capacity for decision-making necessary to update and transform urban development policy to ensure its ability to promptly and flexibly respond to the numerous problems and challenges arising under conditions of socio-political instability. The article addresses and analyses several cases of contemporary urban development and the implementation of corresponding policies. Based on this analysis, the authors conclude that one of the central and most pressing issues in the policy of responsible urban development and the socio-political dynamics of cities is the inefficiency of the communication process between civil actors and stakeholders, on the one hand, and city authorities and the city administration, on the other. This communication deficit can only be partially addressed through digitalization, as the primary obstacles to improved communication are administrative barriers and the dominance of the interests of certain groups, such as large corporations and financial institutions.