Identifying regional key eco-space to maintain ecological security using GIS

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Urban Ecology
• Conservation Biology

Background:

• Urbanization intensifies human impact on ecological spaces, threatening ecological security and environmental sustainability.
• Regional key eco-spaces are vital for maintaining environmental sustainability and providing essential ecosystem services.
• Sustainable development relies on robust ecological security and environmental sustainability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish an integrated index for eco-space importance.
• To develop a method for identifying key eco-spaces using Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
• To provide guidance for ecological management and restoration in urbanizing regions.

Main Methods:

• Development of an integrated index considering water resource security, biodiversity conservation, disaster avoidance, and natural recreation.
• Application of GIS technology for spatial analysis and identification of key eco-spaces.
• Case study conducted in Lanzhou City, China.

Main Results:

• Identified approximately 50,908.7 hm(2) of core eco-space in Lanzhou City, representing 40% of the total area.
• Core eco-spaces primarily include geological hazard protection zones and central areas of river systems, wetlands, nature reserves, forest parks, and scenic spots.
• The study demonstrates a quantifiable approach to mapping critical ecological areas.

Conclusions:

• The developed method effectively identifies key eco-spaces crucial for ecological security.
• Findings offer practical guidance for urban planning, ecological restoration, and ensuring environmental sustainability.
• Prioritizing and managing these identified key eco-spaces is essential for long-term sustainable development.