CONCEPTUALIZING THE INFLUENCE OF URBANIZATION ON THE ECOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT: A FRAMEWORK

Abstract

Ecological environment is crucial for human as it serves essential sustenance to live and the resource to develop human society. During the global trend of urbanization, which includes the process of population growth, social-economic activities, spatial land use changes, energy consumption. Researchers worldwide have explored its impact on the eco-environment. However, a lack of consensus exists regarding the specific aspects and driving factors that impact the ecological environment. In response to these gaps, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of empirical literature relating to the effects of urbanization on ecological environment, and generated a framework for summarizing. In all, 53 studies met the inclusion criteria. Key findings reveal substantial impacts on pollution, biodiversity, and overall quality: (1) Urbanization elements, singularly or combined, demonstrate negative correlations with water and soil contamination, the erosion of surface and groundwater, soil fertility decline, habitat fragmentation resulting in biodiversity loss, and a reduction in vegetation and species. These impacts seem irreversible; (2) Air quality, primarily driven by pollutant emissions, responds to urbanization rates, GDP growth, and energy efficiency. Improvements in air quality rely on higher urbanization rates, increased GDP, and enhanced energy efficiency; (3) Urbanization tends to exert a negative influence on overall eco-environmental quality, with specific driven factors in different urbanization contexts; (4) China's new urbanization, indicating a positive impact on eco-environmental quality, warrants further investigation.