Evaluation of Prioritized Natural Landscape Conservation Areas for National Park Planning in China

Abstract

Protecting representative natural ecosystems, rich biodiversity, and unique natural landscapes are the main considerations in China's national park planning. Here, we mapped the distribution of China's natural landscapes and evaluated their protection values for national park planning and construction. Grading evaluation methods combining standard comparison, inventory method, and expert consultation were used, and four levels of natural landscapes were identified. Furthermore, priority areas for national parks establishment were also proposed. Of all the landscapes evaluated, 76 were extremely important, 481 were important, 2070 were moderately important, and 1213 were slightly important. A total number of 67 priority areas for natural landscapes were identified with a total area of 1,218,000 km 2 . They comprised land and sea areas of 1,148,000 and 69,000 km 2 , respectively. We suggest strengthening natural landscape protection by establishing natural parks in priority areas. Our study will contribute to the effective protection of natural landscapes in China.

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