<p>Urban land-use transformation poses ecological challenges requiring socially integrated strategies. This research explores how construction worker labor behaviors (CWLB), social integration (CWSI), and resident social response (RSR) influence land transformation ecological load (LTEL). By repositioning construction workers as active socio-ecological agents, the research reveals their direct role in reducing LTEL. A mixed-method approach combining structural equation modeling (SEM) and cloud model analysis was used to examine interrelations and manage response uncertainty. Results show CWLB directly mitigates LTEL, while CWSI indirectly enhances this effect by fostering ecological awareness. RSR further moderates the CWSI–LTEL relationship, strengthening ecological outcomes through community engagement. These dynamics highlight the value of social inclusion in sustainable land transformation. The study offers an original socio-ecological framework that redefines labor’s role in urban sustainability governance. By doing so, it contributes novel insights for planners and policymakers on how empowering labor behavior and social integration can serve as critical levers for ecological outcomes. The study proposes a socio-ecological framework that acknowledges the ecological impact of construction workers and offers policy-relevant insights to support sustainable urban planning.</p>