Navigating challenges in the sustainable development of urban brownfields: A PLS path modeling perspective

The sustainable redevelopment of urban brownfields represents a complex interplay of socio-economic, environmental, and regulatory factors. This study addresses the research problem of quantifying the challenges inherent in the sustainable redevelopment process and hypothesizes that these challenges vary significantly across different domains such as governance, environmental impact, financial economics, technical operations, and legal regulations. Employing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), the study aims to explore and quantify these challenges, providing actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders. Focusing on brownfield projects within Chengdu's five urban districts, a survey was conducted spanning from November 1, 2023, to March 1, 2024, with a total of 436 respondents participating. Drawing upon an extensive dataset encompassing governance, environmental impact, financial economics, technical operations, and legal regulations, we provide a comprehensive analysis of their influence on the sustainable development of urban brownfields. The results indicate that legal and regulatory challenges exert the most significant negative impact on sustainable development, necessitating policy reforms and strategic initiatives. This research contributes to the urban planning literature by offering a nuanced understanding of the obstacles faced in urban brownfield redevelopment and highlighting the potential pathways to navigate these challenges.