Multiobjective Optimization for Eco-Compensation Space Selection based on Gross Ecosystem Product

Abstract

Ecological compensation is an effective measure to settle the conflicts between regional ecological protection and economic development; however, unequal patterns and impaired ecological benefits have been taking effects on the efficiency of eco-compensation worldwide. On the basis of the gross value of terrestrial ecosystems, the ecological profit-and-loss values have been identified, and the eco-compensation priority sequence has been calculated, while the ecological sensitivity has been evaluated. Four indicators of the spatial selection model have been conducted to reflect ecological benefits, ecological profit and loss, ecological sensitivity, and financial payment capacity, while the eco-compensation priorities have been classified by the K-means clustering. As for the results, Chun’an County with the highest priority and located in the low mountainous hills of the western Zhejiang area has been shown as the key compensated zone. The priority compensated zone has been concentrated in the mountainous hills of the western and southern Zhejiang and the headwaters of rivers in central Zhejiang. The secondary compensated zone has been distributed in the coastal islands of eastern Zhejiang. The potential compensated zone has been located in the northern plains and the central and southeastern areas of Zhejiang. It has been shown that the ecological benefits and the gross ecosystem product of various regions would have a direct impact on the evaluation results. A comprehensive index system would be needed to facilitate the allocation of funds to areas with important ecosystem services, ecological sensitivity, and high ecological benefits. The findings of the performed study could contribute to improving the spatial selection method of eco-compensation.