Spatial correlation and urban collaborative governance of air pollution in Anhui province based on complex networks

Abstract

To promote the greening of the economy and sustainable development, and to achieve a win–win situation for the economy and the environment. By constructing and analysing the complex network, this study provides a new perspective for understanding the spatial and temporal dynamics of air pollution, and provides a scientific basis for formulating effective air quality improvement measures. This study investigated the seasonal evolution and spatial correlation of air pollutants and AQI in 16 cities in Anhui Province. A weighted undirected complex network for AQI was constructed based on the average correlation coefficients of AQI between different cities, using the ratio of the average correlation coefficient to the distance of the cities as weights. By analysing the overall statistical characteristics, node importance of the network, and dividing the network into communities, the results show that the atmospheric environmental quality in Anhui Province has significantly improved from 2018 to 2023. Bengbu, Chuzhou, and Hefei occupy the core positions in the network correlation, exhibiting the strongest ability to spread air pollution. The relationship between GDP and AQI between different cities was analysed using the grey correlation method. By combining the results of community division, the correlation between GDP and AQI, and the consideration of policy factors, it is expected that this comprehensive analysis will provide more effective strategies for pollution management, such as optimizing and upgrading the industrial structure, perfecting the synergistic management system of air pollution prevention and control among cities, and strengthening regional cooperation for coordinated urban development.