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Research Focuses and Evolution Trends of River Chief System: A Review of Papers Published from 2009 to 2022

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  • Fang Chen

    (Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8216, Japan)

Abstract

This article presents a systematic review of studies of the River Chief System (RCS). It utilizes a dataset comprising 363 high-quality papers published between 2009 and 2022, sourced from the Web of Science and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), as the foundation for analysis. The primary research method employed is a literature review. Additionally, CiteSpace bibliometric software (v6.2.R2) is used to perform keyword analysis of RCS research. The key research findings include the following points. Firstly, research into RCS has undergone two phases. Secondly, the review presents several points emergent in the literature that have been the focus of much study, including governance logics, theoretical foundations, operational mechanisms, policy effects, and current challenges. Furthermore, the author identifies key trends in the evolution of RCS, such as public participation, the utilization of information technology, and the implementation of the Lake Chief System, Forestry Chief System, and Field Chief System, as well as the construction of a rule of law. Finally, the author suggests that international comparative studies and an inquiry into long-term mechanisms for the implementation of the RCS are needed. This paper provides the first systematic review of the growing literature on RCS, based on papers written in both Chinese and English. It maps out key research points, identifies research trends, and provides a deeper understanding to guide future research.

Suggested Citation

  • Fang Chen, 2023. "Research Focuses and Evolution Trends of River Chief System: A Review of Papers Published from 2009 to 2022," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(21), pages 1-20, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:21:p:15579-:d:1273277
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Yahua Wang & Xiangning Chen, 2020. "River chief system as a collaborative water governance approach in China," International Journal of Water Resources Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 36(4), pages 610-630, July.
    2. Li, Jing & Shi, Xing & Wu, Huaqing & Liu, Liwen, 2020. "Trade-off between economic development and environmental governance in China: An analysis based on the effect of river chief system," China Economic Review, Elsevier, vol. 60(C).
    3. Liping Dai, 2015. "A new perspective on water governance in China: Captain of the River," Water International, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 40(1), pages 87-99, January.
    4. Xiaomeng Zhang & Wei Wang & Wenmeng Yu & Dajun Shen & Tingting Zhang, 2023. "River Chief Information-Sharing System as a River Information Governance Approach in China," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(8), pages 1-20, April.
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