Abstract: Against the backdrop of built stock renewal and low-carbon transition, we constructed a evaluation framework from the dimensions of “adequate spatial conditions but insufficient practical actions” and “strong willingness with poor implementation feasibility”, which covered built environment and behavioral intention to address the dilemmas in community renewal. Taking 35 communities in the central urban area of Nanjing as objects, a total of 766 valid questionnaire responses were collected. We used the entropy weight-TOPSIS method, the Fogg behavior model, and GIS spatial analysis to quantitatively assess and classify the low-carbon renewal potential of target communities. The results revealed a widespread mismatch between community built environment and low-carbon intention of residents. The low-carbon renewal potential of the community was categorized into four types based on their matching degrees, with significant spatial distribution differences. The collaborative leading type (accounting for 6%) was concentrated in the central downtown and riverside zones. The environment-leading type (37%) was clustered in the central main urban area. The intention-leading type (46%) was mostly located in the peripheral downtown and riverside new towns. The dual-low constrained type (11%) was scattered across outer riverside areas. Targeted differentiated collaborative renewal strategies were proposed accordingly. As a leading demonstration zone, collaborative leading communities should promote deep energy-saving transformation and joint construction and governance. Environment-leading communities should focus on scene micro-scale updates to enhance convenience, stimulate action motivation, and trigger mechanisms. Intention-leading communities should address the shortcomings of facilities and promoting basic renovation for those who are willing to take the lead, combined with participatory discussions to lower the threshold for implementation. Dual-low constrained communities should adopt gradual updates, prioritize improving basic livability and energy-saving conditions, and cultivate low-carbon capabilities. This study could provide scientific decision support for the high-quality green and low-carbon renewal of urban communities across China.

Key words: built environment, behavioral intention, low-carbon orientation, community renewal, Fogg behavior model