Coastal Wetland Conservation and Urban Sustainable Development Synergy Pathway Research: Insights from Qingdao and Weihai for Qinhuangdao

Wei Xiong, Junjie Li () and Bangfan Liu ()
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Wei Xiong: School of Public Administration, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004, China
Junjie Li: School of Law and Politics, Hebei University of Geosciences, Shijiazhuang 052161, China
Bangfan Liu: School of Public Administration, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 21, 1-22

Abstract: This study addresses the critical challenge of balancing coastal wetland conservation with urban sustainable development, a pivotal issue for ecological civilization in rapidly developing regions. Through an in-depth analysis of Qingdao and Weihai—exemplary cases in Shandong Province—this research systematically investigates mechanisms for achieving synergistic win–win outcomes. Employing a mixed-methods approach, including systems analysis to deconstruct governance frameworks, comparative case study to identify transferable strategies, and policy deduction to formulate actionable pathways, the study reveals how integrated approaches yield tangible results. Qingdao’s “Five Ocean Usages” concept and Weihai’s segmented coastal zoning have significantly improved key ecological metrics. By contrast, Qinhuangdao faces pronounced challenges, including degraded wetlands, spatial conflict between ports and core habitats, and underdeveloped synergistic governance. To address these, the study proposes a targeted strategy for Qinhuangdao, emphasizing a data-informed “wetland+” multi-format integration plan, the establishment of wetland mitigation banking and green finance instruments, digitally enabled public participation, and deeper policy alignment with national strategies such as Maritime Power. This research provides both a replicable analytical framework and practical guidance for coastal cities seeking to realize “development within protection and protection within development”.

Keywords: coastal wetlands; urban sustainable development; synergistic pathways; Qingdao; Weihai; Qinhuangdao (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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