Evaluating the coordination between conservation and development on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau through a dual-dimensional framework
Document Type
Research-Article
Journal Name
Journal of Geographical Sciences
Keywords
coordinated development, performance alignment, progress synchronization, Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, Sustainable Development Goals
Abstract
Coordinating socioeconomic development and environmental conservation is essential for ensuring sustainable development. Previous studies have primarily focused on evaluating key dimensions of coordination, i.e., performance alignment and progress synchronization, in isolation, thus limiting a comprehensive understanding. Assessment methods also face limitations because of the lack of reliable and comparable performance evaluation criteria, insufficient differentiation in coordination measurement, and symmetry issues that conceal distinct coordination patterns. To address these gaps, a dual-dimensional coordination analytical framework is developed in which Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)-based criteria and refined coordination measurement methods are incorporated. Application of this framework to the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau reveals that environmental and socioeconomic goal achievement increased by 15% from 2000 to 2020, reaching 59% and 41%, respectively. The degree of performance alignment remained moderate, and progress synchronization was generally high, with both improving over time despite persistent regional disparities. Under the assumption of SDG achievement by 2030, projections indicate that only counties on the eastern plateau and in parts of Lhasa are likely to sustain coordinated progress, while 51% of counties face dual-dimensional coordination challenges, which poses barriers to SDG attainment. These findings highlight the need for phased and region-specific policy strategies. This framework provides a systematic approach for analysing coordination challenges and guiding policy formulation, with broader applicability across regions. © Science Press 2026.