Analysis of the spatiotemporal evolution and drivers of environmental inequality based on well-being equity: evidence from Western China

Abstract

Interregional trade facilitates the transfer of implied human economic well-being (HEW) and integrated environmental pressure (IEP). The mismatch between them leads to environmental inequality. A comprehensive evaluation index system for HEW is constructed. Based on the multi-regional input-output (MRIO) model, the HEW, water, carbon, and land footprints of the Hexi Corridor Economic Belt in China were measured in 2012, 2015, and 2017. Three types of environmental footprints were integrated into the IEP, and structural decomposition analysis (SDA) was used to explore the interregional transfer and driving factors of changes in HEW and IEP. A regional environmental inequality (REI) index was constructed to assess the environmental inequality among cities in the Hexi Corridor. Results show that environmental inequality in the Hexi Corridor is severe and intensifying. The focus is that Jiuquan absorbs more HEW from other cities in the interregional trade, but transfers IEP to Jiayuguan and other places. The main factors affecting the flow changes of HEW and IEP are production structure and final demand structure. Due to differences in resource endowments, Jiayuguan bears great environmental pressure without sufficient economic compensation, which is unfavorable for regional coordinated and sustainable development. Therefore, it is recommended to introduce clean production technology, transfer polluting production to reduce the productive environmental footprint of Jiayuguan, develop high-tech, and promote the growth of regional HEW driven by surrounding cities. The study findings help address environmental inequality and promote sustainable growth of economic well-being in Western China and provide a reference for similar research.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

Interregional trade / Environmental inequality / Human economic well-being / Integrated environmental pressure / Multi-regional input-output model / Structural decomposition analysis

Highlight

	● New perspectives for exploring regional environmental inequalities are proposed.
	● Interregional transfer of goods and services affects environmental quality.
	● Environmental inequality in the Hexi Corridor was quantifiably assessed.
	● There is a significant level of environmental inequality in the Hexi Corridor.

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