Decoupling urban growth from ecological footprints: a review of strategies for material flow optimization and pollution abatement in green city development

Urban sustainability has become essential for aligning human development with ecological integrity while ensuring livable environments for future generations. This study investigates effective strategies for developing green cities through improved resource efficiency and pollution reduction, guided by international best practices. Using comparative analysis of global case studies and planning frameworks, the research outlines an integrated approach that combines circular water management, energy-efficient green architecture, and advanced waste vaporization technologies. Findings suggest that while challenges persist in system integration and technological maturity, iterative advancements through data-driven policy and innovation hold promise for realizing carbon-neutral urban ecosystems. Furthermore, the synergy between smart city infrastructures and nature-based solutions emerges as a powerful enabler for overcoming current implementation gaps. This work contributes to the growing body of urban sustainability research by offering a structured, adaptable model for translating theory into practical planning, enabling measurable improvements in environmental performance across diverse urban contexts.