Ecological Security Analysis by Supply and Demand Approach of Carbon Storage Ecosystem Service (Case Study: Central Part of Isfahan City)

Abstract

Urban development, especially in large cities, has transformed both the structure and function of natural ecosystems as well as the quality of urban lands. The disruption of the supply and demand for ecosystem services, which results in ecological insecurity, is highly related to these alterations. Isfahan City, one of the largest population concentrations in Iran, has experienced rapid growth, which has caused the eradication of various natural regions in the surrounding areas. A variety of conservation, restoration, and management initiatives are implemented to enhance urban ecological security; however, in this study, the supply and demand ratio for carbon storage service in the central part of Isfahan has been proposed as an indicator of ecological security. The supply and demand ratio of the carbon storage was determined by examining the supply status of the carbon storage as well as the demand for this service, which was considered as the amount of carbon dioxide gas emission. Accordingly, most areas of the case study have experienced an imbalance in the supply and demand ratio of the carbon storage service, with an increase in demand for carbon storage service as a result of increased carbon dioxide emissions. It is suggested to construct green corridors in this city, and due to the reduced area of agricultural lands, South Ghohab has also experienced the processes of desertification, which necessitate the implementation of sustainable agricultural practices. According to the findings, the increase in carbon emissions has had a greater impact on ecological security than the loss of green space. The quality of the urban ecosystem can only be improved by applying the knowledge of ecology, along with approaches such as maintaining ecosystem services and their supply, demand, and flow are crucial components of supporting sustainable development.

Keywords

• ecological security
• ecosystem service
• carbon storage
• isfahan