GMM-based research on environmental pollution and population migration in Anhui province, China

The urban population in Anhui province has increased rapidly in recent years. Simultaneously, society has grown more concerned with protecting the ecological environment, including controlling atmospheric pollution. As such, the relationship between urban population and the environment merits consideration. This paper examines five statistical indicators (urban population, three kinds of industrial waste, and urban green area) using the GMM method to quantitatively explore the relationship between urban population and the ecological environment in cities of Anhui province. The results show that waste gas pollution is truly positive to the emigration of population and to each area, the higher the level of average urban income, the higher the possibility of emigration after the area being polluted; effects are smallest on landscape green area. The article concludes with suggestions on how policymakers can better align the needs of a growing urban population with environmental growth.