Exploring the relation between the industrial structure and the eco-environment based on an integrated approach: A case study of Beijing, China

Abstract Tremendous economic growth creates increasing pressure on the eco-environment, and the industrial structure has an important influence on the eco-environment. To explore the relation between the industrial structure and the eco-environment, we established a new evaluation index system for both the industrial structure and the eco-environment; then, using data on Beijing from 1992 to 2016, we applied an integrated approach involving the combination weight method, the coupling coordination degree model, the dynamic coupling coordination degree model and the scissors difference model with the following results. (1) The industrial investment structure and the eco-environment status account for the largest proportion of the industrial structure and the eco-environment index systems, respectively. (2) The comprehensive level of the industrial structure is initially higher than that of the industrial structure system and then gradually slows and lags behind. (3) The coupling coordination degree between the industrial structure and the eco-environment in Beijing shifts from “barely coordinated development” stage to “superior coordinated development” stage. (4) The dynamic coupling coordination degree of the whole system presents an S-shaped curve evolving from the “low-grade symbiosis” stage to the “harmonious development” stage and approaching the “utmost development” stage. (5) The scissors difference presents a V-shaped curve, and the gap in the development trend between the industrial structure and the eco-environment diminishes. This study discusses the relationship between the industrial structure and the eco-environment of Beijing from 1992 to 2016, which should be beneficial in promoting the coordinated development between the industrial structure and the eco-environment of Beijing.