Spatial network characteristics and influencing factors of the synergistic effects of pollution reduction and carbon emission reduction in “Zero Waste City” clusters

Abstract

Investigation on the synergistic effects of pollution reduction and carbon emission reduction in Zero Waste City (ZWC) clusters can shed light on effective pathways for regional waste management collaboration and can provide new insights into regional pollution reduction and carbon emission synergy. Thus, focusing on the ZWC cluster in Shandong Province, China, this study calculates the pollution reduction and carbon reduction synergies for each city from 2013 to 2022. It also explores the structural characteristics and influencing factors of the spatial network of pollution reduction and carbon reduction synergies within the ZWC cluster. Results show the following: (1) During the research period, the synergistic effect of pollution reduction and carbon reduction is strengthened due to improvements in pure technical efficiency, a reduction in disparities between cities, and the gradual optimization of spatial patterns. (2) Jinan, Qingdao, and Weihai occupy dominant core positions within the collaborative network. The relationship between the provincial capital and the Jiaodong Economic Circle is well-balanced, while the Lunan Economic Circle exhibits a strong outward orientation, although with limited reciprocal feedback. (3) Geographic proximity, public attention, and differences in information technology foster the formation of the spatial relationship network, while government support disparities demonstrate the opposite effect. Economic disparities have a relatively considerable impact on relational promotion, whereas the influence of industrial structure is comparatively negligible. Based on the above conclusions, this study proposes strategies to enhance the synergistic effects of pollution reduction and carbon emission reduction in ZWC clusters by strengthening “zero waste” management and technology application, thereby optimizing the collaborative network of ZWCs and reinforcing multifactor cooperation.