Critical success factors for eco-city development in China

Eco-city is a solution to address environmental and economic development issues and a model for future city development. However, without understanding the key activities of the eco-city, its success and subsequent benefits cannot be guaranteed. The objective of this paper is to identify critical success factors (CSFs) of eco-city and analyse the inter-relationship among them. To achieve this, 19 CSFs were identified through literature review and interviews. A questionnaire-based survey is then conducted to obtain opinions from professionals. The population of this study is 372 with 108 completed and valid questionnaires received. Clear definition and targets', conflicting interests among stakeholders', residents' behaviour and awareness of environment protection and energy conservation' and management in operation stage of eco-city' were identified to be the most important factors. The five underlying CSF groupings included governance', competence and behaviour of stakeholders', knowledge and market support', plan of the city' and external environment.' The results showed the ranking of the CSFs and five underlying groupings. The findings serve not only to assist stakeholders of the eco-city to gain a better understanding of a successful development, but also serve as a useful reference for managers when adopting strategies in future for the development of eco-city projects.