The Spatial Network Characteristics of the Coupling Coordination Degree Between Pollution and Carbon Reduction and High-Quality Development in the Yangtze River Economic Belt

Under the requirements of the “double carbon” goal and the new development concept of high-quality development, the coordinated promotion of pollution, carbon reduction, and high-quality development is significant in promoting the social economy’s comprehensive green transformation. The coupling and coordination degree between pollution, carbon reduction, and high-quality development of 110 cities in the Yangtze River Economic Belt from 2010 to 2021 was measured, and the modified gravity model and social network analysis were then employed to assess the spatial network characteristics, patterns, and structure evolution. The results indicated that the coupling and coordination of urban clusters in the Yangtze River Economic Belt showed an increasing pattern, and the spatial arrangement shifted from dispersed to centralized. The spatial linkage strength and potential increased, while the spatial linkage pattern was steady. The direction of spatial connectivity remained consistent, with significant central city orientation and geographical proximity. The overall network structure was characterized by increased network density and an increased number of network links within each urban cluster, while network effectiveness fluctuated and decreased. The predominance of central or developed cities characterized individual network characteristics. This study is of great significance for exploring the coordinated development of pollution reduction, carbon reduction, and high-quality development, providing a theoretical basis for implementing ecological civilization, promoting carbon neutrality, promoting regional coordinated development, and achieving green, low-carbon, and sustainable development.