Newsletter Issue No.6 | Fall 2024 HKUST PPOL
CONTENTS Head’s Message Grant and Achievement Ongoing Projects Scholarly Showcase Conferences and Events Student Hub News and Upcoming Events 2 3 14 15 26 31 39 1
HEAD’S MESSAGE Welcome to the latest edition of our biannual PPOL newsletter. This issue arrives somewhat later than planned—a modest delay occasioned by recent changes in our staff. Nevertheless, we’ve worked diligently to ensure this edition meets the high standards we set for ourselves. Since our previous publication, the Division has seen numerous exciting developments. I am continually impressed by the dedication displayed by our faculty, researchers, and students. It is your commitment that enriches our collective endeavor, fostering a stimulating environment where innovative thinking and impactful research flourish. This newsletter showcases a selection of our recent initiatives, collaborations, and achievements. The stories within these pages mirror our ongoing commitment to excellence and our dedication to making substantive contributions to our community and the wider world. Our work—whether it involves pioneering research projects or community engagement efforts—continues to inspire and drive positive change. Professor Naubahar SHARIF Division of Public Policy, HKUST Looking ahead, I encourage all of you to engage with us. Whether you have ideas on how we can enhance our work or feedback on this edition, your insights are invaluable. Thank you all for your continued enthusiasm and dedication. Together, let’s strive to make the upcoming academic year one of our best yet. 2
GRANT AND ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS GRANTS 3
The Division of Public Policy is immensely proud to announce that our very own Prof. Pengyu Zhu has been awarded a prestigious Research Fellowship grant from the Research Grants Council (RGC). This remarkable achievement is a testament to Prof. Zhu’s distinguished research capabilities in the field of urban and regional development. His research project, titled “Regional Science and Complex Systems: A Five-year Research Plan on Transportation, Land Use, Labor, and Innovation Systems,” has been awarded HK$5.3 million in funding. The RGC Research Fellowship is a highly competitive scheme that recognizes leading academics who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. Prof. Zhu’s selection is a proud moment for our division, as it underscores the world-class caliber of our faculty and their impactful research. This honor not only reflects the Division’s strengths in addressing critical issues related to urban systems and policy, but also reinforces our commitment to driving innovation and generating knowledge that can positively influence policymaking and societal transformation. We congratulate Prof. Zhu on this remarkable achievement and look forward to the insightful findings that will emerge from his groundbreaking research project. Prof. Pengyu Zhu Associate Professor, PPOL Prestigious RGC Research Fellowship Awarded to Professor Pengyu Zhu 1 4 AWARD
We are thrilled to announce that Professor Alex Jingwei He has been recognized among the top 2% of the most cited scientists worldwide in the fields of Political Science and Public Administration by Stanford University, based on the 2023 single-year impact metrics. Additionally, he is ranked as the second highest scholar in public policy in Hong Kong. The Stanford World’s Top 2% Most Cited Scholars ranking, released in September 2024, positions Professor He at 488 out of 22,449 scholars globally in the discipline of Political Science and Public Administration. This prestigious ranking highlights researchers who have published multiple highly cited papers, assessed through various citation impact metrics derived from Scopus data, which evaluate both career-long and recent single-year performance. The selection process identifies the top 100,000 scientists based on citation scores (c-scores), considering both self-citations and external citations. This achievement marks the third consecutive year that Professor He has been included in this esteemed ranking, reflecting the significant global impact and relevance of his scholarly contributions. His areas of expertise include comparative social policy, health policy and governance, and policy innovation and entrepreneurship. Professor He’s work not only advances academic discourse but also informs practical policy-making, making him a pivotal figure in his field. This recognition is a testament to Professor He’s ongoing commitment to excellence in research and scholarship. It brings great pride to the Division of Public Policy (PPOL) and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor He on this remarkable accomplishment! Professor Alex Jingwei He has been recognized among the top 2% of the most cited scientists worldwide in the fields of Political Science and Public Administration 2 Prof. Alex Jingwei He Associate Professor, PPOL Acting Director, IPP 5 AWARD
Professor Masaru Yarime Named Highly Ranked Scholar by ScholarGPS We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Masaru Yarime, Associate Professor in the Division of Public Policy (PPOL), for being recognized as a Highly Ranked Scholar by ScholarGPS! Prof. Yarime is an expert in numerous research domains, including energy policy and technology development, climate change and global environmental governance, policy design and innovation, the emergence of innovation systems, and big data in social science research. With 94 publications in public policy, his significant contributions have earned him the impressive ranking of #53 in Sustainability, placing him in the top 0.05% of scholars globally. This accolade reflects his substantial impact and notable achievements in the field. ScholarGPS is a leading scholarly analytics platform that acknowledges Highly Ranked Scholars for their exceptional accomplishments across various disciplines. It evaluates over 30 million scholars affiliated with more than 55,000 academic and non-academic institutions worldwide, ranking them based on their productivity, impact, and the quality of their work. Once again, congratulations to Prof. Yarime on this well-deserved honor! 3 Prof. Masaru Yarime Associate Professor, PPOL 6 AWARD
We are proud to announce that Professor Alex Jingwei He, Associate Professor in the Division of Public Policy (PPOL), has been awarded the prestigious 2023 Best Policy Research Award by the Chinese Policy Scholars Group (CPSG). This honor recognizes exceptional contributions to the field of policy research and analysis. Professor He’s award-winning paper, titled “Unpacking the Black Box of Pilot Sampling in Policy Experimentation: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of China’s Public Hospital Reform,” explores the methodologies employed by governments in selecting pilot sites for large-scale policy experiments. The study focuses on China’s extensive public hospital reform program, which encompasses 200 cities nationwide. Utilizing a cutting-edge research approach, Professor He and his co-authors integrated Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) with detailed case studies to reveal five distinct strategies employed in site selection. These strategies oscillate between choosing sites with favorable conditions and ensuring geographic and economic diversity. The significance of this research lies in its profound insights into the complexities of pilot site selection in policy experimentation, particularly within the context of large-scale reforms. It challenges previous assumptions, highlighting that the process is far more nuanced than commonly understood and offering valuable perspectives on how China navigates its extensive policy reform landscape. Moreover, Professor He’s work not only enhances the academic discourse surrounding policy experimentation but also serves as a vital resource for policymakers and researchers worldwide. This award underscores the substantial impact and importance of his contributions to the public policy field. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor He on this well-deserved recognition and eagerly anticipate his continued advancements in public policy research. Professor Alex Jingwei He Won 2023 Best Policy Research Award by the Chinese Policy Scholars Group (CPSG) 4 Prof. Alex Jingwei He Associate Professor, PPOL Acting Director, IPP 7 AWARD
Strengthening International Collaboration: Dr. Julien de Troullioud de Lanversin’s Impactful Visit to Tsinghua University 5 The Division of Public Policy is delighted to highlight the remarkable achievements of our esteemed colleague, Dr. Julien de Troullioud de Lanversin, following his recent academic visit to Tsinghua University in Beijing. Sponsored by the prestigious AUA Scholars Award, Dr. de Troullioud de Lanversin spent two weeks engaging with leading scholars in the fields of international relations and nuclear security. During his time at Tsinghua University, he offered insightful lectures to students on the critical intersection of technology and geopolitics, sharing his expertise and research findings. A highlight of his visit was the opportunity to present his research on nuclear arms control to a distinguished audience of scholars at Tsinghua University, as well as to nuclear scientists from the China Academy of Engineering Physics. Through these engaging discussions, Dr. de Troullioud de Lanversin was able to foster meaningful dialogues and explore ways to reduce misunderstanding between China and the United States in the nuclear realm. In addition to his academic engagements, Dr. de Troullioud de Lanversin also met with former diplomats from the China Arms Control and Disarmament Association, as well as scholars from Harvard’s Belfer Center. These valuable interactions allowed him to further his understanding of the complex dynamics between the two global powers and identify potential avenues for reigniting cooperation between the US and China expert communities. The Division of Public Policy takes great pride in Dr. de Troullioud de Lanversin’s achievements and is honored to have him as a member of our esteemed faculty. 8 AWARD
BDF PROJECT PROJECT TITLE: Learning from the Past and Acting for the Future of Hong Kong’s Ethnic Minorities: A Comprehensive Analysis of BDF Research Projects and Culturally Sensitive Anti-drug Studies Among South Asians in Hong Kong FUNDING AGENCY: Beat Drugs Fund Association, Narcotics Division, Security Bureau AMOUNT AWARDED: HK$2,911,980. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This three-year project, led by the Mental Health Projects Team at the Division of Public Policy at HKUST and funded by the Beat Drugs Fund, the HKSARG, aims to address the rising prevalence of drug use among Hong Kong’s Ethnic Minorities. The project’s goal is to develop culturally sensitive anti-drug policies and prevention efforts through comprehensive research and community engagement. The increasing incidence of drug use among Ethnic Minority groups highlights the urgent need for targeted, culturally aware interventions. Historically underserved, these communities— particularly South Asians such as Nepalese, Indians, and Pakistanis—face unique challenges that require a nuanced approach. The project will employ mixed-methods research over the first two years, engaging 330 Ethnic Minority individuals to gather valuable insights through surveys and interviews. In the final year, the project will focus on outreach and education, benefiting 360 participants through educational talks, interactive workshops, and radio broadcasts. By combining rigorous research with practical education and publicity efforts, the project aims to deliver culturally sensitive recommendations that contribute to a healthier, safer society, and enhance the well-being of Ethnic Minority communities in Hong Kong. Prof. Naubahar Sharif Head and Professor, PPOL 9 GRANT
GRF GRANT The EU has taken steps towards circularity in the textile industry. In 2018, the EU Waste Framework Directive of 2008 was amended to outline a roadmap with a focus on repair, reuse, a target for member states to establish separate collections of household textile waste by Jan 1, 2025, and a shift of burden towards producers through encouragement of EPR. In response, France (2020), Sweden (2022), Italy (2023) and Netherlands (2023) have introduced binding EPR regulations with targets for clothing recovered for recycling or resale. The EU’s recent proposal for a targeted revision of the Waste Framework Directive, which would require a harmonized EPR program across Europe, with targets for collection, recycling and reuse, policies to prevent ‘dumping’ of postconsumer textiles, and incentives for developing infrastructures, and innovations that support a more circular apparel value chain. Given the challenges such as the disconnect between the policy goals and the current technologies, infrastructure and business models, the effectiveness of this approach remains to be seen. Prof. Kira Matus Professor, PPOL PROJECT TITLE Can We Regulate Our way to a Circular Economy? A Study of the Relationship between Extended Producer Responsibility Regulation and Sustainable Innovation in the Textile Industry FUNDING AGENCY General Research Fund (GRF), Research Grants Council, Hong Kong SAR (Ref. 16601224) AMOUNT AWARDED HK$1,099,992. PROJECT DESCRIPTION This project aims to explore the potential of extended producer responsibility (EPR) systems in driving sustainability and circularity in globally dispersed value chains. The global textile and fashion industry, one of the largest, most polluting, high growth, globally dispersed industrial sectors, imposes significant environmental impacts including overconsumption of natural resources, water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions and waste into landfills. 10 GRANT
GRF GRANT PROJECT TITLE: Local Government Innovation under Political Recentralization in Contemporary China: A Two-stage Sequential Study FUNDING AGENCY: General Research Fund (GRF), Research Grants Council, Hong Kong SAR (Ref. 16600324) AMOUNT AWARDED: HK$791,494. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: His proposed study explores the impact of political (re)centralization on local government innovations in China. It seeks to address the scholarly debate on whether the powerful political recentralization since 2013 has led to a decrease in local government innovations, or if the fundamental momentum of local state dynamism remains robust despite the changes in political incentives and opportunity structure. The study will adopt a two-stage sequential research design. First, it will use text-mining techniques to collect data from a large corpus of official texts to map out the macro landscape of local government innovations from 2008 to 2023, before and after the central leadership transition. This quantitative analysis will help identify the various types of innovations. Secondly, the study will conduct comparative case studies in two provinces to provide in-depth qualitative insights. By combining quantitative and qualitative evidence, the research aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationship between political (re) centralization and local government innovations in contemporary China. The findings of this study have important policy implications, as they can inform policymakers and administrators on how to foster an environment conducive to local innovation and good governance, even in the context of political recentralization. Prof. Alex Jingwei He Associate Professor, PPOL Acting Director, IPP 11 GRANT
Prof. Masaru Yarime Associate Professor, PPOL PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR CO-PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR PROJECT TITLE How the Governance of Standards and Geopolitics Shape Competition in the Global Economy FUNDING AGENCY UKinSPIRE Award, University of Kentucky, United States AMOUNT AWARDED USD 15,000 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This project aims to address the following research question: How do competing digital standards help shape competition between countries and corporations within the global economy? This research project brings together expertise in three different arenas of global standards – digital infrastructure, cross-border finance, and smart city data – that are essential to the global economy. This breadth will allow us to construct a generalized and comprehensive framework for analyzing (1) the governance of digital standards and (2) how geopolitical conflict and corporate competition shape this governance to build economic advantage. This resulting framework is expected to be applied to multiple fields, including international relations, global production networks, critical data studies, and national innovation systems. PROJECT TITLE Data Governance for Innovation for Sustainable Smart Cities: A Comparative Analysis of Japan, the United States, and China FUNDING AGENCY Abe Fellows Network Collaborative Grants, Social Science Research Council (SSRC), United States AMOUNT AWARDED USD 20,000 (2024-2025). PROJECT DESCRIPTION This project will explore how “smart” cities in Japan, China, and the United States are tackling challenges related to data privacy. For instance, Japan is working on a concept called “Society 5.0,” which involves building urban data systems through partnerships between public organizations and private companies. This approach aims to balance innovation with the need to protect personal information. In contrast, China takes a more centralized approach, where the government holds significant control over data. This method has its own set of privacy concerns and benefits. Meanwhile, the United States is developing its own unique system, which combines elements from both Japan and China but faces different challenges and opportunities. By looking at the experiences of these three countries, we can learn different ways to manage the trade-offs between sharing data to enhance urban life and ensuring that people’s privacy is respected. 12 GRANT
RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP AWARD Prof. Julien de Troullioud de Lanversin Assistant Professor, PPOL PROJECT TITLE: Verification methods for nuclear weapon testing activities AWARDING INSTITUTION: The Institute on Peace Research and Security Policy (IFSH) at the University of Hamburg PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This project focuses on advancing research related to the verification of nuclear subcritical tests conducted by states, ensuring compliance with the current moratorium on nuclear testing. The objective is to develop scientific methods that enhance the ability to accurately assess these tests, contributing to the broader field of nuclear non-proliferation and arms control. The project will also emphasize engagement with key stakeholders, including German parliament members and experts from the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO). Through this engagement, the research aims to facilitate discussions on findings and insights, fostering collaboration between academic research and policy-making to strengthen regulatory frameworks governing nuclear activities. Additionally, the project includes the preparation of grant proposals targeting funding sources such as the German Research Foundation and the Stanton Foundation. These proposals will focus on securing resources to expand research capabilities and support further investigations in the critical area of nuclear verification and compliance. 13 GRANT
LEADING FACULTY FUNDING AGENCY PROJECT Professor Naubahar Sharif 白立邦 教授 Chief Executive’s Project List 2023 – Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust Enhancing the Mental Health of Hong Kong’s Non-Chinese Youth Aged 15-24 (2024 - Now) Mental Health Initiatives Funding Scheme, Advisory Committee on Mental Health Strengthening Family Relationships for Hong Kong’s Ethnic Minority Communities in the Aftermath of the Covid-19 Pandemic (2023 - Now) Mental Health Initiatives Funding Scheme, Advisory Committee on Mental Health Supporting Ethnic Minority Elderly with Mental Health Needs (2023 - Now) Center for Aging Science, HKUST Towards a More Inclusive Hong Kong: Covid-19, Mental Well-being, and Mitigation Strategies for a Multicultural Elderly Community (2022 - Now) HKUST, HKUST (GZ), and Guangdong Science and Technology Department Mental Well-Being in the Greater Bay Area (GBA): An Interdisciplinary Approach to Awareness, Assessment, and Intervention (2024 - Now) Professor Masaru Yarime 鎗目雅 副教授 Global Engagement Funds, University College London Public Perspectives on Personal Data Use for Personalized Covid-19 Advice (2022 - Now) Institute for Emerging Market Studies The Smart City as a Field of Innovation: Effects of Public-Private Data Collaboration on Innovation in the Guangdong Province and Implications for the Greater Bay Area (2022 - Now) Professor Alex Jingwei He 和經緯 副教授 RGC – General Research Fund Technocrats and Mid-Level Policy Entrepreneurship in China: Explaining Local Policy Innovations in the Social Welfare Arena 中國大陸的技術官僚與中層政策企業家： 解釋社會福利領域的地方政策創新 (2023 - Now) ON GOING PROJECTS 14
SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION POLICY ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND SUSTAINABILITY SOCIAL AND URBAN POLICY 15 SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
STUDY FOCUS The paper explores the emerging applications of generative AI models, particularly in qualitative research within the social sciences and public policy. While these technologies enhance conversational capabilities, they also raise significant ethical concerns regarding data confidentiality and research integrity. The study identifies potential risks associated with the use of Large Language Models (LLMs), such as GPTs, through a review of scientific literature and discussions with qualitative researchers and stakeholders impacted by these technologies. The research highlights the need for interventions to mitigate risks affecting the three key groups: Reviewers, Researchers, and Research Respondents (the 3Rs). By comparing current AI-related policies from the European Union, Singapore, the United States, the United Kingdom, and China, the authors identify regulatory gaps in addressing the ethical implications of LLM usage in qualitative research. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To ensure ethical integrity in qualitative research utilizing generative AI, policymakers should establish a regulatory framework that encompasses both soft laws and hard laws. This framework should facilitate ongoing dialogue among researchers, regulators, and stakeholders, while implementing guidelines and regulations that protect data confidentiality and uphold research ethics. Emphasizing transparency and accountability will be crucial to fostering trust and promoting responsible use of AI technologies in research. STUDY FOCUS This paper examines the relationship between the risks of robots replacing jobs and citizens’ preferences for government policies. It aims to clarify mixed results from existing research by investigating when citizens support government intervention to reduce job displacement risks and their preferred policies. A survey in China, the largest robot market, found that citizens favor government action in dangerous work environments over routine jobs. They prefer direct assistance, like training programs, rather than company-focused regulations. Support for government action is stronger when citizens believe beneficiaries deserve help. POLICY RECOMMENDATION This paper recommends focusing on training programs that directly support workers affected by robot job displacement. Clear communication about the benefits and intended beneficiaries of these policies is essential for gaining public support. Policymakers should also strive for a balance between technological advancement and job security to protect workers’ rights. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION POLICY Fan, Ziteng, Jing Ning, and Alex Jingwei He. “Slowing down or adapting to technological progress? Automation risk and policy preferences.” Regulation & Governance DOI:10.1111/rego.12642. Sivarudran Pillai, Vishnu, and Kira Matus. “Regulatory solutions to alleviate the risks of generative AI models in qualitative research.” Journal of Asian Public Policy (2024): 1-24. 16 SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
STUDY FOCUS The paper examines the mobility challenges posed by population ageing, specifically focusing on Japan as a case study. It explores how innovations like autonomous vehicles and Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) can address these challenges, while highlighting the barriers to their implementation. Through interviews with practitioners and experts, the study reveals interconnected issues such as safety, driver shortages, deteriorating transport services, and accessibility barriers that impact the elderly’s mobility and well-being. STUDY FOCUS The paper explores the regulatory landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) in Russia, highlighting the government’s reliance on unenforceable ethical principles and industry self-regulation instead of strict regulations. Based on 50 interviews with policymakers, AI representatives, and academics, the study illustrates how this regulatory regime has been influenced by major tech companies seeking to minimize oversight. This approach, framed as a strategy to promote local innovation, may unintentionally compromise public interest by allowing for “ethics washing,” where companies present superficial compliance with ethical standards without real accountability. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Governments should consider establishing clear, enforceable regulations for AI technologies that prioritize consumer protection and public interest. Rather than relying solely on selfregulation and ethical guidelines, a balanced approach that includes robust oversight and accountability measures is essential to mitigate the risks of ethics washing and ensure responsible AI development. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION POLICY Trencher, Gregory, Masaru Yarime, and Jeongsoo Yu. “Using emerging technologies to tackle mobility challenges caused by population ageing: Experiences from Japan.” Technological Forecasting and Social Change 208 (2024): 123729. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Policymakers should prioritize the development and implementation of mobility innovations tailored to the needs of the elderly. A holistic approach is essential to address the interlinked challenges of safety, accessibility, and service quality, while ensuring that expectations align with the realities of ageing populations. Papyshev, Gleb, and Masaru Yarime. “The limitation of ethics-based approaches to regulating artificial intelligence: regulatory gifting in the context of Russia.” AI & SOCIETY 39, no. 3 (2024): 1381-1396. 17 SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
STUDY FOCUS The paper examines the growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in public sector operations and services (AI-PS) across at least 49 countries. It addresses the challenges of implementing AI in public services, particularly the critical issue of building societal trust in AI-PS. The authors emphasize the importance of trust in AI systems for effective public service delivery and conduct a systematic literature review to assess current research on this topic. The findings highlight gaps in knowledge and propose future research directions to better understand and foster trust among various stakeholders, including citizens, service providers, and policymakers. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Governments and public agencies should prioritize initiatives aimed at building societal trust in AI-PS. This includes developing transparent communication strategies, engaging stakeholders in the design and implementation process, and conducting ongoing research to address ethical concerns and enhance public understanding of AI technologies. Establishing clear frameworks for accountability and performance evaluation will also be essential to ensure the responsible deployment of AI in public services. Aoki, Naomi, Melvin Tay, and Masaru Yarim. “Trustworthy public sector AI: research progress and future agendas.” Research Handbook on Public Management and Artificial Intelligence (2024): 263-276. 18 SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
STUDY FOCUS The paper investigates the effectiveness of various expert-crowdsourced interventions designed to motivate global behavior change in response to climate change. Analyzing data from 59,440 participants across 63 countries, the study tests 11 interventions aimed at improving four climate mitigation outcomes: beliefs, policy support, information sharing, and tree-planting behaviors. The findings reveal that while some interventions had minor effects—such as decreasing psychological distance to strengthen beliefs and inducing negative emotions to enhance information sharing—none significantly increased more effortful behaviors like tree planting. Additionally, the effectiveness of these interventions varied based on participants’ initial climate beliefs, indicating that tailored approaches may be necessary. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To effectively drive climate behavior change, policymakers should adopt tailored interventions that consider the diverse beliefs and motivations of different audience segments. Strategies should focus on reducing psychological distance and fostering emotional engagement while recognizing that more demanding behaviors may require distinct approaches. Continuous evaluation and adaptation of interventions will be essential to enhance their effectiveness across various contexts and populations. ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND SUSTAINABILITY Vlasceanu, Madalina; Doell, Kimberly C.; Bak-Coleman, Joseph B.; ... Tyrala, Michael, ... & Van Bavel, Jay J. (2024). “Addressing Climate Change with Behavioral Science: A Global Intervention Tournament in 63 Countries”. Science Advances 10(6). STUDY FOCUS This study investigates the role of urban agglomerations in mainland China in achieving national objectives for ‘Carbon Peak’ and ‘Carbon Neutrality’ through strategies that mitigate environmental risks. It focuses on the industrial sector across thirteen urban agglomerations (TUAs) from 2006 to 2016, employing a comprehensive decomposition framework based on the Malmquist productivity index. This framework allows for an analysis of whether changes in productivity are driven by efficiency improvements or technological advancements, considering various input and output variables such as capital and labor. The findings indicate an average annual environmental productivity gain of 2.6% during the study period, reflecting an overall enhancement in productivity within the industrial sectors of the TUAs. However, a detailed analysis reveals that while energy use and pollutant management contributed positively to environmental productivity growth, the ‘catch-up effect’—representing the ability of less advanced areas to emulate more productive regions—was negative at -0.2%. This suggests that the TUAs struggled to reach the productivity levels of their more advanced counterparts, primarily due to negative impacts from industrial energy use and capital inputs. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The study emphasizes the need for technology transfers from more developed regions to less advanced ones, particularly in renewable energy and capital investments. Such transfers are critical for improving environmental performance and productivity within the industrial sectors of the TUAs, highlighting the importance of strategic collaboration and investment in fostering sustainable development. Chen, Xiaodong, Zhuang Miao, Ge Wu, and Pengyu Zhu. “City-level green growth accounting: Evidence from China’s thirteen urban agglomerations.” Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 203 (2024): 114776. 19 SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
STUDY FOCUS The paper examines the environmental impact of data center deployment and analyzes policy responses aimed at enhancing their sustainability. Focusing on six major data center hubs— Singapore, the Netherlands (Amsterdam), Ireland, Germany (Frankfurt), the USA (Virginia), and the UK (London)—the study identifies three primary policy responses: moratorium, adjustment, and continuation. It assesses the degree of policy change, the duration of these changes, and their effects on data center deployment rates. Findings indicate that while all regions adapted their strategies, only two implemented longterm measures through stricter environmental standards. The analysis reveals that moratoriums can effectively stabilize resource consumption in the short term, while continuation strategies may lower costs but face opposition. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To promote sustainable data center growth, policymakers should implement stricter environmental standards and consider moratoriums as temporary measures to manage rapid deployment. Additionally, integrating multi-regional infrastructural strategies that align IT infrastructure needs with available energy resources can enhance the effectiveness of sustainability efforts. This holistic approach will help balance growth with environmental responsibility. STUDY FOCUS The paper examines the adoption barriers for electric cars (ECs) and electric motorcycles (EMs) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, contributing to the understanding of electric mobility in developing countries. While much of the existing research has focused on ECs in industrialized nations, this study highlights the unique challenges faced in a context where motorcycles dominate transportation. Utilizing a quantitative survey of 944 potential adopters, the authors employed exploratory factor analysis and regression modeling to explore how various structural conditions—such as environmental, economic, social, and institutional factors—impact the psychological barriers to purchasing ECs and EMs. The findings reveal both commonalities and distinct differences in the barriers affecting the adoption intentions for these two technologies, enhancing our understanding of the complex interplay between structural conditions and psychological factors in urban settings. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To promote the adoption of electric mobility in developing countries, policymakers should implement targeted strategies that address the specific barriers identified for both electric cars and motorcycles. This includes enhancing infrastructure for charging stations, providing financial incentives, and fostering public awareness campaigns. Additionally, engaging with local communities to understand their unique needs and preferences can help tailor interventions that effectively encourage the transition to electric mobility, ultimately reducing environmental impacts and improving energy security. Soares, Ian Varela, Masaru Yarime, and Magdalena Klemun, “Balancing the Trade-off between Data Center Development and Its Environmental Impacts: A Comparative Analysis of Policy Responses in Singapore, Netherlands, Ireland, Germany, USA, and the UK,” Environmental Science and Policy, 157, 103769 (2024). Truong, Nhi, Gregory Trencher, Masaru Yarime, Brendan Barrett, and Kazuyo Matsubae, “Barriers to the adoption of electric cars and electric motorcycles in Vietnam,” Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment, 131, 104204 (2024). 20 SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
STUDY FOCUS This paper examines how different welfare reform designs influence public attitudes and behaviors, emphasizing the interplay between policy feedback and individual proximity to reforms. Focusing on a 2020 public consultation in China regarding changes to medical savings accounts, the study employs a survey experiment to assess how varying policy designs impact public opposition. The findings reveal that moderate welfare retrenchment leads to significant public resistance, driven not by partisanship, but by specific policy characteristics and individuals’ past experiences with health insurance. POLICY RECOMMENDATION First, tailored policy designs can foster greater public support by aligning reforms with citizen interests. Second, engaging communities during the policy-making process enhances transparency and acceptance. Third, policymakers should consider citizens’ past experiences with existing welfare policies, integrating feedback mechanisms to improve satisfaction and trust. Finally, broadening the analysis of public opinion to include diverse factors beyond partisanship can lead to more effective and widely supported welfare reforms. Overall, the study highlights the importance of thoughtful policy design and public engagement in shaping successful welfare reform outcomes. STUDY FOCUS This paper investigates the usage patterns of shared parking in Guangzhou, China, focusing on the factors influencing both the total number of transactions and the average duration of parking. By analyzing transaction records from 121 shared parking lots, the study employs a quasi-Poisson regression model to identify key explanatory factors, such as the duration of implementation, parking lot capacity, land use types, proximity to points of interest (POIs), and transit stations. The findings indicate that these factors significantly affect parking transactions. Additionally, a linear regression model reveals that the average parking duration is influenced by land use, the number of nearby office buildings, and peak usage times. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The study emphasizes the importance of enhancing land use planning by integrating shared parking facilities into urban development strategies, particularly in high-demand areas near office buildings and transit stations. Increasing parking lot capacity in these locations can accommodate more transactions and alleviate congestion. Furthermore, raising awareness about shared parking options, especially close to points of interest, can boost participation. Implementing dynamic pricing strategies that reflect peak times may also optimize usage and maximize revenue. Overall, addressing these factors can improve the effectiveness of shared parking schemes and help mitigate urban parking challenges. SOCIAL AND URBAN POLICY He, Alex Jingwei, Ling Zhu, and Jiwei Qian. “Policy design and policy feedback in welfare retrenchment: A survey experiment in China.” Policy Studies Journal (2024). Wang, Juan, and Pengyu Zhu. “The distribution of shared parking use in time and space: A case study in Guangzhou, China.” Journal of Transport and Land Use 17, no. 1 (2024): 603-623. 21 SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
STUDY FOCUS This article investigates how Kashiwanoha International Campus Town has engaged its new residents in the development of a smart city, focusing on a human-centered approach that utilizes smart technologies to address local social issues and enhance resident participation. By employing qualitative methods, including analysis of official documents, field observations, and interviews with citizens and planners, the study highlights the importance of context-sensitive and collaborative strategies in building community within newly developed urban spaces. The findings reveal that investing in citizen participation and placemaking is crucial for fostering community ties and creating an environment conducive to innovation. However, challenges persist in empowering grassroots initiatives, indicating that achieving a balance between community-driven and technology-driven development is complex. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The article makes several policy recommendations aimed at improving citizen engagement in smart city projects. These include prioritizing resident input in planning processes, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and creating platforms for grassroots innovation. By addressing these aspects, the study seeks to shift the narrative surrounding new smart cities from one of criticism to one of opportunity, emphasizing the potential for creating vibrant, inclusive communities through thoughtful engagement and participatory practices. STUDY FOCUS This book, The Social Science of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Call to Action for Researchers, edited by Monica K. Miller, explores the profound impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on various aspects of society, including education, family dynamics, and the economy. Recognizing that the pandemic presents unique challenges that go beyond medical and health sciences, the book emphasizes the importance of understanding social behaviors and psychological responses to the crisis. Florentin, Kevin Macarius, Motoharu Onuki, and Masaru Yarime, “Facilitating Citizen Participation in Greenfield Smart City Development: The Case of a Human-centered Approach in Kashiwanoha International Campus Town,” Telematics and Informatics Reports, 15, 100154 (2024). Tyrala, Michael. (2024). “World-Systems Analysis and the COVID-19 Pandemic: How the Structural Dynamics of the Capitalist World-Economy Exacerbate Societal Vulnerability and Undermine Collective Responses to External Shocks”. In: Miller, Monica K. (Ed.). The Social Science of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Call to Action for Researchers (pp. 500-514). Oxford University Press. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Through a collection of essays by international scholars, the book provides a comprehensive overview of the pandemic’s timeline, detailing how it has reshaped daily life and societal norms. It examines individual behaviors and experiences during the pandemic, discusses the long-term outcomes following the crisis, and offers best practices for conducting future social science research related to pandemics. The book serves as a vital resource for researchers and policymakers, aiming to promote recovery from COVID-19 and minimize the negative impacts of future crises. By highlighting the significance of social science in understanding and addressing pandemic-related challenges, it encourages a collaborative approach that integrates psychological and societal perspectives into public health responses. 22 SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
STUDY FOCUS This study examines the complex dynamics of water insecurity faced by households displaced by Typhoon Haiyan in resettlement villages in the Philippines. While much of the existing research has concentrated on water availability and accessibility, this paper highlights the critical role of power and politics in shaping water governance. By employing political ecology and water governance perspectives, the study investigates the overlapping drivers of water insecurity in these post-disaster contexts. Key findings identify five main drivers: inadequate relocation of displaced persons to areas lacking basic facilities; institutional disharmony and delayed involvement of water agencies; governance regime influences leading to substandard housing and water systems; micropolitics affecting water district management; and the economic impacts of maladaptive resettlement on households’ ability to afford water. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The study advocates for improved institutional arrangements to enhance the governance of water services in resettlement communities. This includes fostering better coordination among water institutions during resettlement processes, ensuring that basic services like water are prioritized in relocation plans, and addressing power dynamics within local governance structures. By focusing on these areas, policymakers can work towards more equitable and sustainable water security outcomes for disaster-displaced populations. STUDY FOCUS This paper investigates the effects of local democratic decision-making in authoritarian contexts, specifically examining whether participatory budgeting can enhance civic engagement and government accountability. Conducted as an intervention involving over 20 million people in China, the study randomly assigned communities to either a treatment group, where citizens engaged in deliberative processes to allocate local community budgets, or a control group. The findings reveal that participatory decision-making significantly increased various forms of civic engagement beyond the budgeting process within six months of the intervention. Residents in treatment communities expressed a greater need for improvements from the central government, suggesting a potential shift towards seeking accountability from an authoritarian regime. Additionally, these changes were associated with a more positive societal outlook and increased satisfaction with government policies. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The study recommends that policymakers and local authorities in authoritarian settings consider implementing participatory budgeting as a means to foster civic engagement and enhance accountability. By encouraging citizen involvement in local decision-making, governments can create pathways for greater public input and oversight, ultimately leading to improved governance and more responsive policies. Such initiatives might not only empower communities but also lead to a more engaged citizenry that holds authorities accountable for their actions. Cuaton, Ginbert Permejo, Yvonne Su, Pamela Katic, and Masaru Yarime, “Unpacking water governance dynamics and its implications for household water security in post-disaster resettlement communities in the Philippines,” Geoforum, 154, 104053 (2024). Wu, Sherry Jueyu, Ke Michael Mai, Ming Zhuang, and Fangxin Yi. “A large-scale field experiment on participatory decision-making in China.” Nature Human Behaviour (2024): 1-8. SOCIAL AND URBAN POLICY 23 SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
STUDY FOCUS This paper explores the relevance of Elinor Ostrom’s theories on the commons to urban planning, emphasizing the importance of relationality in fostering collective action. It examines how interpersonal connections at farmers’ markets illustrate a network of relationships that enhance community engagement. The authors argue that understanding social connections can address urban injustices and promote cooperation, urging planners to rethink governance strategies to prioritize empathy and community ties. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The paper recommends designing urban policies that foster relationality by creating spaces for interpersonal connections, such as communitycentered markets and integrated social services, to combat alienation and enhance collective action in urban environments. Lejano, R. P., and W. S. Kan (2024). “The relational dimensions of collective action.” Planning Theory & Practice, 25(3):413-419. STUDY FOCUS This article addresses the pressing global challenges faced by contemporary society, such as climate change and the risks associated with artificial intelligence. It argues that while scientific and technological advancements have made strides, there remains a significant gap in effectively mobilizing social and political capacities for collective action. This disconnect arises from a tendency to approach complex global crises through unidimensional frameworks, which fail to capture their multifaceted nature. To address these challenges, the authors propose an integrative approach grounded in the paradigm of social ecology. This perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness of social and environmental systems, encouraging a focus not only on the carbon footprint of society but also on the broader social implications of carbon emissions. The article outlines the core principles of social ecology and highlights its potential to foster collaborative research and enhance collective action, ultimately leading to more effective strategies for global governance. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The policy recommendation put forth advocates for the adoption of a social ecological framework in policymaking and governance. By promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and integrating social factors into environmental policies, decisionmakers can develop more holistic strategies that address the root causes of global crises. This approach aims to inspire innovative solutions and strengthen collective responses to the urgent challenges facing humanity. Lejano, R. P., and Daniel Stokols. “Social Ecological Systems in Flux.” Annual Review of Sociology 50 (2024). 24 SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
STUDY FOCUS This article reflects on the urban components of the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which addresses the critical issues of climate change, mitigation, and adaptation within cities. The author critiques the report for its ideological leanings and its tendency to focus on theoretical frameworks rather than providing critical assessments of the actual conditions faced by developing cities. While AR6 emphasizes the importance of reducing carbon footprints, it overlooks the broader social implications— referred to as the social footprint of carbon— and fails to adequately address the significant adjustments that mitigation and adaptation efforts will necessitate for urban populations in developing nations. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The article calls for a more nuanced understanding of urban climate challenges, highlighting the need for comprehensive evaluations that consider both environmental and social dimensions. The author recommends that future reports and policy frameworks integrate assessments of social impacts alongside environmental strategies. This approach would ensure that the unique challenges faced by developing cities are acknowledged and addressed, facilitating more equitable and effective climate action that takes into account the realities of urban populations in these regions. STUDY FOCUS This paper explores the challenges and opportunities of data governance in the context of smart city development in Shenzhen, China. It highlights the critical importance of establishing effective mechanisms for managing data, given the unique institutional characteristics of the region. The study finds that a centralized governmentled approach has been adopted, transitioning from merely addressing the fragmentation of government data to promoting the integration of diverse data sources across society. Collaborative efforts between the government and technology enterprises have resulted in the creation of open data platforms, along with regulations aimed at safeguarding data security and privacy while facilitating data exchange for innovation. POLICY RECOMMENDATION However, the paper identifies several key challenges. Stakeholders lack adequate incentives to provide accurate information, and the value of data is not sufficiently recognized, which hampers data sharing. Furthermore, citizens are often uninformed about the types of data collected and their uses, and institutional mechanisms to ensure responsible handling of citizen data by public authorities are still lacking. To address these issues, the paper recommends actively involving citizens in data governance processes to align with a people-centered approach to smart city development. This includes enhancing transparency about data collection and usage, creating incentives for accurate data reporting, and establishing robust institutional frameworks to protect citizen data. By fostering citizen engagement, the governance of data in smart cities can be improved, leading to more effective and equitable outcomes. SOCIAL AND URBAN POLICY Xie, Siqi, Ning Luo, and Masaru Yarime, “Data Governance for Smart Cities in China: The Case of Shenzhen,” Policy Design and Practice, 7 (1), 66-86 (2024). Lejano, R. P., & Kan, W. S. (2024). “IPCC and the City: The need to transition from ideology to climate justice.” Journal of Planning Education and Research, 44(3), 983-990. 25 SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
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