The Nanjing South Model, also known as the Nanjing South New Urbanization Model, is a major urban reform that is helping to transform the city of Nanjing, located in East China’s Jiangsu Province. The primary purpose of this reform is to address the city’s population growth and urbanization issues, which have been increasing due to rapid migration from rural to urban areas. The overall goal of the Nanjing South Model is to create a vibrant, livable and sustainable city in the East of China.
In order to achieve these goals, the Nanjing South Model has implemented several key urban reform measures. These measures include introducing the “Three Circles” system of urban planning, which promotes responsible land use and sustainable development; introducing a new urban green space plan, which provides more public parks, open green spaces and sustainable urban “green belts”; and promoting “walkable communities” to improve urban transportation, safety and health.
Along with specific urban reforms, the Nanjing South Model has also implemented policies and projects to improve the quality of life in the city. These initiatives include a Social and Cultural Renovation Program, which encourages economic diversity and social integration; a task force dedicated to rural modernization and urban-rural integration; and a Sustainable Town Development Program, which focuses on improving the urban environment and urban infrastructure.
The effects of the Nanjing South Model have already been noticeable in the city. In 2019, local residents reported that the city’s air quality improved drastically due to the implementation of the green space plan and the task force dedicated to urban-rural integration. In addition, the Social and Cultural Renovation program has led to an increase in civil society initiatives and cultural activities.
The Nanjing South Model has received much praise from the global community, not only for its success in addressing Nanjing’s urbanization issues but for its broader potential for positively transforming other cities in China and beyond. In 2019, the model even won the U.N. Habitat III Innovation Award for its “sustainable and inclusive urban governance practices.”
As it continues to evolve, the Nanjing South Model is becoming increasingly ambitious. The goal is no longer simply to make the city livable, but to create an “urban tech-hub” that will eventually attract foreign investment, business opportunities and more residential migrants. To achieve these goals, the city is focusing on developing a highly efficient transport infrastructure, launching an urban IT industry, and introducing financial and investment incentives.
The Nanjing South Model has the potential to become a model for sustainable urbanization projects all over the world. It is proving that with innovative policies and initiatives, cities can address population growth issues, create green spaces, and improve quality of life for its citizens. As the model continues to evolve, it may become a model of success for urban planners and policy makers around the world.