Mechanism for implementing the ecological loss-compensation balance under comprehensive land consolidation

Ecological loss-compensation balance (ELCB), with achieving "no net loss" of habitat quality as the core objective, has emerged as a key international policy tool for balancing land development and ecological conservation by scientifically accounting for habitat values and establishing standardized trading mechanisms. Employing case studies and logical deduction, we systematically elucidated the concept and international practices of ELCB. We further analyzed the synergistic potential between ELCB and comprehensive land consolidation (CLC) in terms of goal orientation, project demands, and technical pathways. Integrating the ELCB mechanism into CLC projects can significantly enhance the overall benefits and the efficacy of ecological conservation. We further proposed an innovative mechanism for achieving the ELCB within the CLC framework. First, it would be imperative to strengthen the natural resource property rights system and the top-level legal framework for ELCB. Second, scientific national spatial planning should be employed to implement functional zoning and differentiated management of regional ecological spaces. Finally, ELCB should be systematically achieved by leveraging diversified habitat compensation models, coupled with an indicator-based reward system linked to ecological performance. This work aimed to provide theoretical insights and practical guidance for enhancing ecological conservation and for innovating pathways to realize the value of ecosystem products within the practice of CLC.