Green Space Equality Is Better in Fast-Growing Cities: Evidence from 140 Cities in China

Baohua Huang, Jiatong Gu, Mengfan Zhang and Zhe Feng ()
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Baohua Huang: China Land Surveying and Planning Institute, Beijing 100035, China
Jiatong Gu: School of Land Science and Technology, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China
Mengfan Zhang: School of Land Science and Technology, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China
Zhe Feng: School of Land Science and Technology, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China

Land, 2025, vol. 14, issue 2, 1-19

Abstract: Given the critical role of urban green space (UGS) in fostering sustainable urban development, there is a growing focus on assessing levels and inequalities in urban green space exposure. However, the integration of UGS with urban development, particularly in the context of China’s unique national conditions, remains underexplored. This study evaluates the adequacy and equity of urban green space provision in 140 Chinese cities (with built-up areas exceeding 100 km 2 ) using metrics such as the percentage of green space, green space exposure, and the Gini coefficient. Additionally, the study investigates the interplay between natural, economic, and social factors and UGS variables, particularly examining the interrelation of urbanization and green sustainable development within the framework of China’s distinctive land finance policy. The findings reveal that most large Chinese cities suffer from inadequate and inequitable green space provisions, with a clear connection between these deficiencies. The study highlights that factors such as favorable natural conditions, economic growth, urbanization, favorable living conditions, and the unique land finance and transfer system in China can enhance urban green space exposure and equality. This research offers valuable insights and evidence for Chinese central and local governments to devise effective and sustainable greening strategies, aiming to attain high-quality urban development.

Keywords: Urban Green Space (UGS); green exposure; environmental inequality; urban development; large cities; China (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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