TY - JOUR AB - Purpose– The aim of this paper is to analyze conceptual specificities and practical applications of Chinese eco-cities. The eco-cities, promoted by the government, reflect the combined pressure of urbanization and environmental protection in China. Design/methodology/approach– In addition to literature and documentary material, the study is based on the experience of a Western architectural company which has participated in eco-city projects in China. This experience has been mapped via interviews in the company and among its partners and governmental stakeholders. Findings– This study examines in detail the contents and practical applications of the Chinese eco-city concept. It illustrates and categorizes eco-city projects and analyzes the specificities of the urbanization in China as a driver for the development of eco-cities. Similarities and differences with the corresponding concepts, like smart cities, are discussed. Originality/value– The eco-city concept is an important expression of sustainability concerns in China. New insights about its practical applications help to understand the specificities of environmental issues in developing economies, and comparison with the corresponding Western discussions helps to foster international collaboration in the sustainability context. VL - 5 IS - 2 SN - 2053-4620 DO - 10.1108/JSTPM-05-2014-0020 UR - https://doi.org/10.1108/JSTPM-05-2014-0020 AU - Bao Sen AU - Toivonen Marja PY - 2014 Y1 - 2014/01/01 TI - The specificities and practical applications of Chinese eco-cities T2 - Journal of Science and Technology Policy Management PB - Emerald Group Publishing Limited SP - 162 EP - 176 Y2 - 2024/05/12 ER -