A novel perspective on ecological risk assessment of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) based on multi-source...

Currently, regional ecological risk assessments (ERAs) of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) often fail to integrate socioeconomic and natural factors, leading to incomplete evaluations. This study developed a PAH ecological risk assessment model based on multi-source data fusion (including remote sensing, monitoring, socioeconomic, meteorological, and land use data). The model incorporates not only the hazards of risk sources but also the vulnerability of ecological receptors. Comparative validation analysis with traditional methods showed that integrating ecosystem carrying capacity parameters identified an overall moderate level of PAHs in the region. This approach more accurately captures spatial variations in ecological risk, providing stronger support for environmental management and decision-making. Additionally, a driving mechanism analysis using machine learning and structural equation modeling revealed that human activities are the primary drivers influencing PAHs ecological risk (λ = -0.89). This study offers a new framework for regional PAHs ERAs.