Ecological Informatics (Sep 2024)
Dynamic evaluation of the ecological evolution and quality of arid and semi-arid deserts in the Aibugai River Basin based on an improved remote sensing ecological index
Abstract
The ecological quality of arid and semi-arid regions (ASRs) is fragile, and the evaluation of dynamic changes in the multi-factor, long-time-series ecological quality of these regions can provide a scientific basis for sustainable regional development. Based on the remote sensing ecological index (RSEI) and its derivative indices dedicated to monitoring ecological quality in ASRs, this study proposes a new modified RSEI (nmRSEI) suitable for ASRs. We used the nmRSEI to evaluate the dynamic changes in the ecological quality and analyse the factors driving these changes in the Aibugai River Basin in the middle of the Inner Mongolian Plateau in the arid core of Asia from 1986 to 2022. The results led to the following conclusions: (1) the use of the nmRSEI helps solve the problems related to the original greenness index, i.e. normalised difference vegetation index, which was readily affected by the soil background in areas with low vegetation coverage; (2) the new dryness index can meet the evaluation requirements for the surface dryness degree in >98.65% of the study area; (3) the introduced salinity index showed a significant negative correlation with the nmRSEI; (4) the nmRSEI exhibits a gradual downward trend (Slope = −0.00326/10a); and (5) temperature was the main factor controlling the ecological quality during the research period. The nmRSEI provides a fast and effective new method for regularly monitoring ecological quality in ASRs. In addition, driving factor analysis can provide theoretical support for ecological protection in ASRs and the realisation of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
