Spatial-Temporal Variation and Mechanisms Causing Spatial Differentiation of Ecosystem Services in Ecologically Fragile Regions Based on Value Evaluation: A Case Study of Western Jilin, China

Abstract

The concept of Ecosystem Service Value (ESV) is indispensable when balancing the need for economic development and ecological protection, because it can clarify the ecological assets and values provided by a region. The study of spatio-temporal variation of ESV in ecologically fragile regions is helpful when attempting to restore regional ecological function. Taking the ecologically fragile area in Western Jilin as an example, this paper analyzes the spatial distribution and spatial-temporal evolution characteristics of the integrated ecosystem service value (IESV) in the study area by constructing an IESV model. The drivers of spatial differentiation of integrated ESV in the study area and the mechanisms controlling the interaction between various factors are examined using the geographical detector technique. The results showed that the areas of high value with integrated ecosystem services in Western Jilin were mainly distributed in protected areas, and that there has been a downward trend in the past 23 years. Moreover, the explanatory ability of NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) was strongest of any of the natural factors considered. Among the socio-economic factors, the explanatory power of the human activity index (HAI) was greatest. Additionally, the interaction between natural factors and socio-economic factors exhibits synergistic enhancement, which affects the degree of spatial differentiation of IESV. The spatio-temporal variation in IESV is the result of the joint action between human activities and natural factors. This study can provide a scientific basis for the optimization of ecosystems and the development of ecological security in Western Jilin.

Dynamic Variation of Ecosystem Services Value under Land Use/Cover Change in the Black Soil Region of Northeastern China

“…However, the population growth issues that are connected with socioeconomic development may reflect the contradiction between human activities and human well-being [ 4 ]. Under this context, ecosystem service value (ESV) is indispensable when balancing the need for food production and ecological protection because it can clarify the ecological assets and values provided by a region [ 5 ].…”

“…Some researchers have shown that the ESV often varies in terms of its temporal and spatial characteristics [ 34 , 35 ]. For example, Shang et al found that the interaction between the NDVI and soil types had the most substantial impact on the spatial differentiation of the IESV in the study area, with an explanatory power of 21.95% [ 5 ]. Therefore, it is essential to carry out some studies in different regions to analyze changes in the ESV.…”