Study on Spatiotemporal Evolution and Driving Factors of Urban Expansion Based on Nighttime Light Data: Case of Anhui Province, China

To boost the high-quality integrated development in late-developing regions, an examination of the temporal and spatial patterns of urban growth and the primary drivers of urbanization in these regions is crucial. An exemplar case study of Anhui Province is presented in this research. The extraction of urban built-up areas in Anhui Province was conducted using nighttime light (NTL) data and urban statistical information. The study investigated the dynamic transformations and evolutionary features of urban expansion by utilizing measurement indexes for urban growth and center of gravity transfers. By employing gray relational analysis on economic, demographic, and other statistical data, the key influencers behind urban expansion in Anhui Province were scrutinized. The results revealed a steady annual increase in the urban built-up area of Anhui Province from 1996 to 2020. Furthermore, the shift of the urban built-up area's center of gravity in Anhui Province transitioned toward the east-south direction between 1996 and 2008, but gradually shifted toward the west-north direction thereafter. These alterations were mainly driven by factors such as urbanization rate. This study is expected to help decision makers take appropriate countermeasures to achieve high-quality regional development. Understanding the spatiotemporal dynamics and influencers of urban expansion is vital for fostering sustainable urban development, ecological conservation, and enhancing residents' quality of life. The dynamics and influencers of urban expansion vary across cities and different stages of urban development. This study aims to elucidate the dynamics of urban expansion in Anhui Province and identify the primary driving factors to assist urban policymakers and planners in making informed decisions regarding urban planning, land use, and ecological and environmental protection policies.