Spatial effects and influencing factors of urban sustainable development: An analysis of urban agglomerations in China

As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, the exploration of sustainable development paths for urban agglomerations has become a new platform for debate. This paper uses data from Chinese cities to study the level of urban sustainability. Three methods, kernel density, Gini coefficient and spatial measurement model, were used to explore the spatial effects and influencing factors of sustainable development of cities and urban agglomerations. Through the study, the following conclusions are obtained: First, the temporal and regional differences in sustainable urban development differ between cities belonging to urban agglomerations and those not belonging to urban agglomerations. In terms of overall distribution, there is a tendency for the eastern seaboard to radiate outwards. Second, the role of educational resources in urban sustainable development is particularly prominent. Finally, the sustainable development of urban agglomerations shows large spatial differences. The spillover effects of influencing factors vary from urban agglomeration to urban agglomeration. This study provides valuable guidance to policymakers and stakeholders. It can promote balanced and effective sustainable urban development.