With the rapid advance of industrialization and urbanization and the intensified impact of global climate change, the contradiction between the global water shortage and economic growth has become prominent. This paper, taking Henan province as an example, analyzed the influence of water resource policy on regional economic growth through a calculable general equilibrium model and further discussed the relevant policy recommendations. The results showed that the improvement of water supply, water efficiency and water technology could promote the growth of the regional economy and result in a positive effect on regional GDP, employment and resident income. However, the rise of water price has a negative impact on regional economic development, mainly reflected in regional GDP, employment and household income. The improvement of water price, water efficiency and water conservancy technology would lead to a decrease in regional water consumption, while only the increase of the water supply would lead to an increase in water consumption. Accordingly, the paper put forward policy suggestions, such as accelerating the improvement of water conservancy facilities, establishing a reasonable water price mechanism and actively exploring experience in water conservation and emission reduction.

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Objective: Over 120 countries have set or are considering net-zero emissions or neutrality targets. Under the targets, it is necessary to rethink the low-carbon transformation path for resource-based cities, often regarded as incompetent to transition to net-zero directly. Therefore, this paper attempts to summarize the general frame for low-carbon transformation in resource-based cities. Methods: In this paper, we build a Solow growth model with carbon emission constraints to theoretically analyze the possible path of low-carbon transformation for cities. Then we analyze four typical cities in Japan, Germany, Britain, and America. Results: The results of theoretical analysis indicate that industrial structure, technological innovation, and clean energy are the key factors for resource-based cities to move towards zero carbon. In addition, the case analysis results show that the authorities of the four cities adopted policies of industry structure adjustment, energy consumption structure adjustment, and urban environment management to achieve the low-carbon transition. The results further validate the conclusions of the theoretical analysis. Conclusion: Finally, we propose a general framework for resource-based urban transformation. Additionally, we suggest that urban authorities adjust their layout of emerging industries to local conditions, increase investment in low-carbon technologies (especially clean energy), and actively take the lead in environmental governance.

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