A Gender-Inclusive Model for Sustainable Economic Development of Urban Ecosystems

In the context of accelerated urbanization and the transition to a low-carbon economy, the integration of the gender dimension into models of sustainable development of urban ecosystems is particularly important. The purpose of this study is to develop and substantiate a gender-inclusive model for sustainable economic development in cities in Kazakhstan, considering economic, social, and environmental factors in the framework of a “green” transition. The methodological basis for this study was an interdisciplinary and multi-level approach, including the creation of a system of 35 quantitative indicators, compositional indexing, spatially differentiated analysis, and elements of institutional and predictive analysis. The empirical base includes official statistical data, materials from national and regional development programs, as well as the results of specialized analytical and sociological studies, with mandatory gender disaggregation of employment and social infrastructure indicators. The results show that the implementation of the proposed model makes it possible to reduce the carbon intensity of the urban economy by 25-30% by 2030, while maintaining economic growth rates, and reduce gender gaps in access to employment, infrastructure, and decision-making mechanisms. The developed model can be used as a practical tool for strategic management of sustainable, low-carbon, and inclusive development of cities in Kazakhstan and other transforming economies.