This study investigates the dynamics of sustainable urban development in Guangzhou, a rapidly growing megacity in southern China. Using the Presure–State–Response (PSR) model, the research constructs a comprehensive indicator system to assess sustainability performance across economic, environmental, and governance dimensions. Coupling coordination analysis is applied to evaluate the degree of synergy among these subsystems from 2013 to 2022, while regression analysis identifies key drivers influencing their alignment. The findings reveal that Guangzhou experienced notable fluctuations in sustainability coordination, with policy interventions playing a critical role during periods of high alignment. Economic transformation, infrastructure development, and environmental investment are found to be significant contributors to coordination, while industrial pressure and regulatory lag present persistent challenges. The study highlights the value of integrated assessment frameworks in supporting evidence-based governance and offers insights for other fast-growing cities seeking to balance development and environmental responsibility under the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Zhang et al. (Sun,) studied this question.