Ecosystem service value evaluation method in a complex ecological environment: A case study of Gansu Province, China

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Environmental Science
• Environmental Economics

Background:

• Accurate assessment of regional ecosystem service value (ESV) is crucial for ecological protection and policy development.
• Existing ESV evaluation methods lack adaptability to complex and diverse regional ecological characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish an adaptable ESV evaluation method that accounts for regional differences.
• To assess the spatiotemporal dynamics of ESV in Gansu Province, China.

Main Methods:

• Developed five correction indices for provincial-scale value equivalent factors.
• Constructed a regional difference adjustment index for 11 ecosystem service categories.
• Established a regional difference-based ESV evaluation model.

Main Results:

• In 2015, Gansu Province's total ESV was 2,239.56 billion yuan, increasing from northeast to southwest.
• High ESV areas were found in the Qilian and Longnan Mountains, with forest and grassland ecosystems contributing most.
• From 2000-2015, ESV increased by 3.43 billion yuan, driven by forest and urban ecosystems, while cultivated land decreased.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method offers a comprehensive approach for spatiotemporal ESV dynamic evaluation in complex environments.
• Findings highlight the importance of considering regional variations for effective ecological management and policy.
• Local climate regulation and biodiversity maintenance are key ESV components in Gansu Province.