ABSTRACT

Sustainable urbanism initiatives are rooted in previous efforts that started in the early twentieth century in response to the increasing socio-economic and environmental impacts caused by urbanization patterns that were intensified following the industrial revolution. China, as a leading model in sustainable urbanism, has a lot to offer at the global level. In the context of China, Neighborhood Sustainability Assessment Toolkits are generally missing. Eco-districts in China are still relatively new and experimental, and their planning and design reflect some of the global examples. In China, the development of smart cities and smart districts has been very progressive. The idea that smart solutions shape sustainable low-carbon futures indicates the role of smart technologies, smart initiatives, and smart urbanism in shaping cities and communities across the country. The growing water-related challenges in China have led to the development and promotion of the sponge city program across the country.