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Exploring Port–City Relationships: A Bibliometric and Content Analysis

Author

Listed:
  • Melika Zarei

    (Department of Urban Planning and Design, School of Art and Architecture, Shiraz University, Shiraz 71877335, Iran)

  • Mojtaba Arasteh

    (Department of Urban Planning and Design, School of Art and Architecture, Shiraz University, Shiraz 71877335, Iran)

  • Sina Shahab

    (School of Geography and Planning, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3WT, UK)

Abstract

Planning for port development presents a complex challenge. Along with fostering cooperation and economic synergies, port development also necessitates careful balancing with existing city functions. Previous research on port–city relationships (PCRs) has yielded valuable insights, but a comprehensive systematic and bibliometric review to identify future research directions is lacking. Moreover, existing research in this field has not addressed the need for a comprehensive classification of content, methods, and driving forces. This study addresses these gaps by analyzing 113 academic articles published on PCRs between 2000 and 2023. Using a bibliometric approach, this study leverages the JavaScript programming language, VOSviewer 1.6.20 software, and the Scopus database. This paper aims to identify key research areas and influential studies within the field of PCRs. This analysis reveals emerging research topics and themes within PCRs. Additionally, it depicts which research countries, journals, and keywords are the most prominent with regard to this field, outlining the relationships between them. This study’s findings provide valuable insights into the current state of PCR research, including geographical distribution, publication trends, methodological approaches, and key research variables.

Suggested Citation

  • Melika Zarei & Mojtaba Arasteh & Sina Shahab, 2024. "Exploring Port–City Relationships: A Bibliometric and Content Analysis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(11), pages 1-23, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:11:p:4341-:d:1398862
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    References listed on IDEAS

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