Analysis of water conservation in ecologically fragile areas: A case study of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

Abstract

Remote sensing has become an important means and method of geographical research. Water conservation is one of the most critical functions of terrestrial ecosystems. Research on water conservation in these areas is essential for water resource utilization and ensuring food security. This study focuses on the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, utilizing the concept of the water balance method. By collecting, obtaining, and processing various data sources, including precipitation, evapotranspiration, and land use, the study quantitatively analyses changes in land use in the research area. Based on this analysis, the water conservation status in the region from 2000 to 2020 is assessed. The research findings reveal the following key points: (1) The spatial distribution of water conservation in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region is highly uneven, with a pattern of more water conservation in the north and less in the south. There are significant differences in water conservation functions among various administrative units. (2) From 2000 to 2020, in the southern region of the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, the water conservation quantity has consistently increased and expanded northward. In the northern region, the water conservation quantity initially increased and then decreased. There was no significant change in water conservation quantity in the eastern and western regions. From 2000 to 2010, the water conservation function of all prefecture-level cities in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region was improved However, from 2010 to 2020, Guyuan City experienced a substantial increase in water conservation quantity, while other prefecture-level cities showed varying degrees of decrease.