Socioeconomic development effects on soil toxic elements in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei: using enhanced STIRPAT model
File(s)
Article in Press
Author(s)
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Soil pollution by potential toxic elements (PTEs) is a persistent environmental challenge aggravated by urbanization processes. This study investigates the 21-year (2000-2021) spatiotemporal evolution of seven key PTEs (Pb, Cr, Cd, Cu, Zn, Ni, As) in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and explores the driving socio-economic factors using an enhanced STIRPAT model considering population, economy, technology, urbanization, and transportation. Results show a continuous accumulation of PTEs with significant increases
in Cu, Zn, Ni, and As concentrations (p< 0.001). Health risks associated with economic growth intensified initially but slowed after 2015, indicating emerging pollution control
effects. The dominant socio-economic drivers shifted across stages: industrial restructuring (2000-2005), population-technology synergy (2006-2010), green infrastructure (2011-
2015), and the economic-industrial complex (2016-2021). These findings link socio-economic transformations to soil PTE dynamics, offering insights for stage-specific
pollution management in rapidly developing megaregions.
in Cu, Zn, Ni, and As concentrations (p< 0.001). Health risks associated with economic growth intensified initially but slowed after 2015, indicating emerging pollution control
effects. The dominant socio-economic drivers shifted across stages: industrial restructuring (2000-2005), population-technology synergy (2006-2010), green infrastructure (2011-
2015), and the economic-industrial complex (2016-2021). These findings link socio-economic transformations to soil PTE dynamics, offering insights for stage-specific
pollution management in rapidly developing megaregions.
Date Issued
2025-07-03
Date Acceptance
2025-07-03
Citation
Ecosystem Health and Sustainability, 2025
ISSN
2096-4129
Publisher
Taylor & Francis Group
Journal / Book Title
Ecosystem Health and Sustainability
Copyright Statement
Subject to copyright.
Publication Status
Published online
Date Publish Online
2025-07-03