Synergistic action on mitigation and adaptation pilot policies to enhance low-carbon resilience of Chinese cities

Mitigation and adaptation strategies are recognized as effective means to enhance urban resilience against climate change; however, their combined effects at the urban level are less studied. Here we investigate the synergistic impacts of low-carbon and climate-resilient pilot policies on urban resilience, using panel data from 286 Chinese cities (2005–2022). The findings indicate that dual-pilot policies significantly enhance the low-carbon resilience of pilot cities, outperforming single-pilot policies. The effectiveness of these policies exhibits variation across different city categories: cities subjected to extreme weather and high disaster risks demonstrate more pronounced benefits, whereas medium ecological and economic low-carbon resilience, high social low-carbon resilience and medium institutional low-carbon resilience (MMHM) cities show consistent effects and low ecological, economic, social and institutional low-carbon resilience (LLLL) cities exhibit varied responses. Furthermore, green technology innovation, human capital development and communication infrastructure are critical to improving policy effectiveness. The diversity and integration of policy instruments, along with the multidimensionality and synergy of policy objectives, are essential for effective climate action. It is recommended that cities integrate both mitigation and adaptation strategies to optimize synergies and bolster urban resilience. Dual implementation of climate mitigation and adaptation policies in Chinese cities significantly enhances low-carbon resilience, particularly under extreme weather, through green innovation, human capital and infrastructure. This integrated approach offers a model for urban climate governance, emphasizing co-benefits and tailored strategies for diverse city types.