SUS Lab Member ZHENG Hao Published Research on Urban Shrinkage Patterns in Japan’s Four Major Metropolitan Areas in International Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation.

We are pleased to announce that ZHENG Hao and SUS Lab supervisor Professor Zhang Runsen,  published a paper in International Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation titled “Identification of shrinkage patterns in Japan’s four major metropolitan areas based on nighttime light and population data“. The study offers a novel approach to understanding urban shrinkage by integrating nighttime light (NTL) data and population raster data.

By unveiling the spatial complexities of urban shrinkage, this study provides a crucial data-driven framework for urban planners and policymakers. It highlights the urgent need for tailored urban planning strategies to address the challenges of demographic and spatial changes in Japan’s major metropolitan areas.

The full study can be accessed here:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jag.2025.104391