This study analyzes the impact of offsetting effects of changes in individual SDG scores on the SDG index from 2015 to 2018 at the provincial level in China. It finds that both the number of SDGs with increased/decreased scores and the degree of change significantly impact the SDG index. A decline in individual SDG scores at the national level often reflects declines in more than 15 provinces. The analysis of SDG interactions suggests prioritizing SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG12 (Responsible Production and Consumption) to advance synergistic development.

Junze Zhang, Shuai Wang, Wenwu Zhao, Michael E. Meadows, Bojie Fu