Driving the integration of rural production-living-ecological functions: the role of rural complex
摘要
Constructing the rural complex (RC) is a key component of China’s rural revitalization strategy. Based on panel data for 124 prefecture-level cities in China from 2011 to 2022, this study empirically examines the effect of the RC pilot policy on the integration of rural production-living-ecological functions (PLEF) by applying multiple econometric models. The heterogeneity and spatial diffusion characteristics of the policy’s implementation effect was also investigated. Results show that implementing RC markedly enhances the incorporation of rural PLEF across the pilot regions, a trend that holds true subsequent to multiple robustness evaluations. However, the influence varies significantly depending on regional natural conditions and economic endowments. In the southern region and non-agricultural economic provinces, RC construction plays a more prominent role in driving rural PLEF integration. Moreover, the RC-driven integration of rural PLEF demonstrates quantifiable spatial spillover effects; Specifically, there is a significant positive radiation effect on cities within 50 km, then this diffusion effect decreases as the distance increases. Lastly, three strategic policy recommendations to advance the sustainable development of RC were proposed, namely appropriately expanding the scope of pilot projects, adopting categorized implementation strategies, and fully unleashing the diffusion effect.