Spatio-temporal influencing effects and mechanisms of the digital economy on eco-urbanization in the Yangtze River Delta region

The digital economy (DIGE) plays a crucial role in advancing the sustainable development of the urban ecological environments. This study explored the co-evolutionary dynamics between DIGE and eco-urbanization (ECU), and investigates the impact mechanisms of DIGE on ECU in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region. The following findings include: (1) The coupling coordination between DIGE and ECU increased from 2011 to 2021, with higher coordination observed in the developed central delta region and lower levels in less developed areas of Anhui and northern Jiangsu. (2) A positive and intensifying relationship emerged between DIGE and ECU during this period, with most cities in the delta region showing positive correlations. Higher incidence intensity was found in developed cities in southern Anhui, and central and southern Jiangsu, while weaker incidence intensity was observed in the less developed northern Anhui, northern Jiangsu, as well as western Zhejiang. (3) A significantly positive spatial association was identified, characterized by stable local transfer inertia and lock-in effects. The L DIGE L ECU type cities were primarily located in the less developed northern delta and parts of relatively developed central Anhui and Jiangsu; notably, the H DIGE H ECU type cities were clustered in the developed southeastern delta region. (4) DIGE not only promoted ECU directly, but also indirectly advanced it through green technological innovation, industrial ecologization, industrial structural optimization, and environmental regulations. Furthermore, synergistic promotion, feedback effects, and mutual spatial spillover effects were identified between DIGE and ECU. Understanding these patterns and mechanisms is essential for guiding policy actions and fostering sustainable urban development.