Introduction

Abstract

This chapter introduces the rising eco-city paradigm worldwide and the increasing importance of space and scale in global urban governance. The aims of the book are explained as exposing and reflecting on the implications for policy and practice of re-making eco-urbanism under the transformational trends of economic decentralization and market reform in China. It aims to situate the eco-city movement in broader social contexts, particularly focusing on how the spatial relationships condition practice at various levels; and how the movement is also restructuring spatial relations in various contexts. The structure of the book is then introduced, with a brief summary of each chapter.