The Guangdong,Jiangxi and Fujian(GJF)provinces,located in the subtropical region of southeastern China,is one of the national key regions for soil erosion control and ecological restoration.This region is characterize...The Guangdong,Jiangxi and Fujian(GJF)provinces,located in the subtropical region of southeastern China,is one of the national key regions for soil erosion control and ecological restoration.This region is characterized by extensive red soil development and high rainfall erosivity,making it a representative landscape for exploring the interactions between land use change(LUC)and ecosystem services(ES).Despite the recognized importance of ES in hilly regions,comprehensive assessing the impacts of LUC on ES remain limited.This study investigates five key ES:water yield,soil conservation,carbon conservation,food supply,and habitat quality in GJF region from 2000 to 2020.By applying the InVEST model and the Geodetector method,we assessed the trade-offs,synergies,and transitions among ES,identified the natural and social drivers of ES dynamics,and quantified the contribution of LUC to ES changes using the ecosystem service contribution index.The results showed that cropland and woodland were the dominant land use types.Ecological restoration efforts positively influenced ES,with synergies intensifying and trade-offs diminishing over time.Land use conversions,particularly among woodland,grassland,and cropland,exerted significant impacts on ES.In particular,the conversion of woodland to other land uses had markedly negative effects on soil conservation,carbon conservation,and habitat quality.Forest cover was identified as a major driver of ES dynamics.These findings highlight the importance of maintaining and expanding forest and grassland cover,strengthening red soil conservation,and optimizing land use structure to achieve coordinated ecological protection and socioeconomic development in the subtropical hilly regions of southern China.展开更多
Quantifying and mapping how ecosystem services impact agricultural competitiveness is crucial for attaining the Sustainable Development Goals of United Nations.However,few study quantified agricultural competitiveness...Quantifying and mapping how ecosystem services impact agricultural competitiveness is crucial for attaining the Sustainable Development Goals of United Nations.However,few study quantified agricultural competitiveness and mapped the effects of ecosystem services on agricultural competitiveness using multiple models.In this study,multi-source data from 2000 to 2020 were utilized to establish the indicator system of agricultural competitiveness;five ecosystem services were quantified using computation models;Geographic Information System(GIS)spatial analysis was used to explore the spatial patterns of agricultural competitiveness and ecosystem services;geographic detector models were applied to investigate the effects and driving mechanisms of ecosystem services on agricultural competitiveness.Shandong Province of China was selected as the case study area.The results demonstrated that:1)there was a significant increase in agricultural competitiveness during the study period,with high levels observed mainly in the east region of the study area.2)The spatial distribution patterns of ecosystem services and agricultural competitiveness primarily exhibited High-High and Low-Low Cluster types.3)Habitat quality emerged as the main driving factor of agricultural competitiveness in 2000 and 2020,while water yield played a substantial role in 2010.4)The coupling of two ecosystem services exerted a greater effect on agricultural competitiveness compared to individual ecosystem service.The innovations of this study are constructing an indicator system to quantify agricultural competitiveness,and exploring the effects of ecosystem services on agricultural competitiveness.This study proposed an indicator system to quantify agricultural competitiveness,which can be applied in other regions,and explored the effects of ecosystem services on agricultural competitiveness.The findings of this study can serve as valuable insights for policymakers to formulate tailored agricultural development policies that take into account the synergistic effects of ecosystem services on agricultural competitiveness.展开更多
The Qinghai-Xizang Plateau(QXP)serves as a crucial ecological barrier in China and Asia,exerting profound influences on global climate and biodiversity conservation.Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture(hereinafter ref...The Qinghai-Xizang Plateau(QXP)serves as a crucial ecological barrier in China and Asia,exerting profound influences on global climate and biodiversity conservation.Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture(hereinafter referred as Gannan Prefecture),located on the northeastern edge of the QXP,represents a fragile alpine ecosystem in which land use change significantly impacts ecosystem services(ESs).This study established a comprehensive framework,utilizing the Patch-generating Land-Use Simulation(PLUS)model coupled with the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs(InVEST)model to predict land use patterns under the natural development scenario,cultivated land protection scenario,and ecological protection scenario for Gannan Prefecture by 2030 and evaluated four critical ESs:habitat quality(HQ),water yield(WY),soil retention(SR),and carbon storage(CS).The primary aim is to elucidate the impacts of dynamic land use change on ESs.The results revealed that,from 2000 to 2020,HQ exhibited minimal variation,whereas CS experienced a slight decline.Conversely,WY and SR showed significant improvements.Under the natural development scenario,construction land was projected to increase by 4247.74 hm^(2),primarily at the expense of forest land.The cultivated land protection scenario anticipated an increase in farmland by 2634.36 hm^(2),which was crucial for maintaining food security.The ecological protection scenario predicted a notable expansion of forest land,accompanied by a restrained development rate of construction land.The ecological protection scenario also showed an increase in the ecosystem service index(ESI),encompassing 26.07%of the region.Forest land and grassland emerged as the primary contributors to ESs,while construction land substantially impacted WY.Water bodies exhibited minimal contribution to ESs.This study enhanced the understanding of land use change impacts on ESs in fragile and high-altitude ecosystems,offering essential theoretical frameworks and practical direction for forthcoming ecological policy and regional planning endeavors.展开更多
Ecosystems play a pivotal role in advancing Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)by providing indispensable and resilient ecosystem services(ESs).However,the limited analysis of spatiotemporal heterogeneity often re str...Ecosystems play a pivotal role in advancing Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)by providing indispensable and resilient ecosystem services(ESs).However,the limited analysis of spatiotemporal heterogeneity often re stricts the recognition of ESs’roles in attaining SDGs and landscape planning.We selected 183 counties in the Sichuan Province as the study area and mapped 10 SDGs and 7 ESs from 2000 to 2020.We used correlation analysis,principal component analysis,Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression model,and self organizing maps to reveal the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of the impacts of the bundle of ESs on the SDGs and to develop spatial planning and management strategies.The results showed that(1)SDGs were improved in all counties,with SDG 1(No Poverty)and SDG 3(Good Health and Well-being)exhibiting poor performance.West ern Sichuan demonstrated stronger performance in environment-related SDGs in the Sichuan Province,while the Sichuan Basin showed better progress in socio-economic-related SDGs;(2)habitat quality,carbon sequestration,air pollution removal,and soil retention significantly influenced the development of 9 SDGs;(3)supporting,regulating,and provisioning service bundles have persistent and stable spatiotemporal heterogeneity effects on SDG1,SDG8,SDG11,SDG13,and SDG15.These findings substantiate the need for integrated management of multiple ESs and facilitate the regional achievement of SDGs in geographically intricate areas.展开更多
The Jabodetabek Metropolitan Area(JMA),Indonesia’s largest urban agglomeration,faces severe challenges due to rapid population growth and environmental degradation.Expanding urban areas has led to a reduction in gree...The Jabodetabek Metropolitan Area(JMA),Indonesia’s largest urban agglomeration,faces severe challenges due to rapid population growth and environmental degradation.Expanding urban areas has led to a reduction in green spaces,damaging ecosystem services,and exacerbating urban heat island effect,soil erosion,and flood risk.Therefore,this study identified key ecosystem service indicators,including Urban Heat Mitigation(UHM),Sediment Retention(SR),and Flood Risk Mitigation(FRM),and defined the spatial pattern of ecosystem services and its management zones in the JMA in 2024.Spatial data and ecosystem service indicators were analyzed using the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs(InVEST)and spatial clustering analysis tool(e.g.,Rustiadi’s Quantitative Zoning Method(RQZM)Ⅱ),and the results served as the basis for formulating strategic recommendations.This study highlighted significant regional disparities.Jakarta,Tangerang Regency,Bekasi Regency,Depok City,Tangerang City,South Tangerang City,and Bekasi City experienced the increase of urban heat effect and flood risk due to dense infrastructure and limited green spaces.Conversely,southern peri-urban areas of Bogor Regency demonstrated higher ecological capacities,particularly in water infiltration and temperature regulation,but remained vulnerable to soil erosion due to urban expansion.The results underscored the critical imbalance between growing urban demands and the diminishing capacity of peri-urban areas to supply ecosystem services,which is driven by the transformation of green spaces into built-up areas.To address these challenges,this study proposed the Nature-Based Solutions(NBS)by emphasizing forested area conservation in the southern region of the JMA,natural landscape restoration and rehabilitation in the central region,and a hybrid of natural and artificial ecosystem creation in the northern region.展开更多
Ecosystem degradation and the loss of ecosystem services stem from multiple causes,requiring coordinated and diverse policies,legislation,and institutional responses to effectively address them.An understanding of the...Ecosystem degradation and the loss of ecosystem services stem from multiple causes,requiring coordinated and diverse policies,legislation,and institutional responses to effectively address them.An understanding of the policies,legislation,and institutions governing ecosystem services can enhance the sustained management and provision of ecosystem services.Therefore,this work appraises the policies,legislation and institutional provisions made by the government of Nepal.In addition,this study analyzes policy implications and identifies gaps and barriers that hinder future improvements in the management of ecosystem services.Altogether,63 documents comprising 45 policies and 18 legislations promulgated by the government of Nepal have been assessed for content analysis.Twenty Key Informant Interviews(KIIs)have also been conducted to obtain expert insights about the gaps in policy formulation and implementation.The results indicate that though several sectoral policies and legislations have made provision on management of ecosystem and its services implicitly or explicitly,still there is lacking of overarching framework to deal with ecosystem services.Overlapping roles and responsibilities outlined in the constitution,policies,and legislation,coupled with weak enforcement and lack of multisectoral coordination mechanism,are significant obstacles to effective policy implementation.Therefore,there is a need to develop an overarching national framework backed up by legislation with a strong multisectoral coordination mechanism that will adopt a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to the sustained management and provision of the ecosystem and its services.展开更多
Coastal tourism holds substantial development potential.However,coastal ecosystems are affected by tourism development,which limits the supply of ecosystem services(ES).This study aims to conduct a systematic literatu...Coastal tourism holds substantial development potential.However,coastal ecosystems are affected by tourism development,which limits the supply of ecosystem services(ES).This study aims to conduct a systematic literature review on the impacts of tourism on coastal and marine ES using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-alpha Methods.We initially identified 640 studies by searching titles,abstracts,and keywords.After screening,only 50 studies met the criteria for inclusion in the review.The results showed a significant increase in publications between 2011 and 2023.Most studies were conducted in Europe,Asia,and North and Central America.The most used ES classifications were MEA and CICES.Most studies concentrated on the ES supply dimension(43 studies;86%).Cultural ES(47 studies;94%)were researched more than provisioning(28 studies;56%)and regulating&maintenance(29 studies;58%)sections.Regarding cultural ES,most studies were focused on“Physical and experiential interactions with the natural environment”(34 studies;68%)and on provisioning ES on“Wild animals(terrestrial and aquatic)for nutrition,materials or energy”(18 studies;36%).Quantitative and mixed methods were the most used in the reviewed studies.Most studies identified pressures from“Tourism,urbanisation,and population increase”(27 studies;54%)and focused on“Integrative/common management strategies”(20 studies;40%).Only a few of the studies’results have been validated by external data(10 studies;20%).This study provides an overview of the most assessed marine and coastal ES,where studies are needed with more comprehensive geographic coverage.展开更多
Existing Internet of Things(IoT)systems that rely on Amazon Web Services(AWS)often encounter inefficiencies in data retrieval and high operational costs,especially when using DynamoDB for large-scale sensor data.These...Existing Internet of Things(IoT)systems that rely on Amazon Web Services(AWS)often encounter inefficiencies in data retrieval and high operational costs,especially when using DynamoDB for large-scale sensor data.These limitations hinder the scalability and responsiveness of applications such as remote energy monitoring systems.This research focuses on designing and developing an Arduino-based IoT system aimed at optimizing data transmission costs by concentrating on these services.The proposed method employs AWS Lambda functions with Amazon Relational Database Service(RDS)to facilitate the transmission of data collected from temperature and humidity sensors to the RDS database.In contrast,the conventional method utilizes AmazonDynamoDB for storing the same sensor data.Data were collected from 01 April 2022,to 26 August 2022,in Tokyo,Japan,focusing on temperature and relative humiditywitha resolutionof oneminute.The efficiency of the twomethods—conventional andproposed—was assessed in terms of both time and cost metrics,with a particular focus on data retrieval.The conventional method exhibited linear time complexity,leading to longer data retrieval times as the dataset grew,mainly due to DynamoDB’s pagination requirements and the parsing of payload data during the reading process.In contrast,the proposed method significantly reduced retrieval times for larger datasets by parsing payload data before writing it to the RDS database.Cost analysis revealed a savings of$1.56 per month with the adoption of the proposed approach for a 20-gigabyte database.展开更多
Ecosystem services(ES)mapping and models have advanced in recent years.Improvements were made,and the assessments have transitioned from qualitative to quantitative.Although this is an important advancement,the ES map...Ecosystem services(ES)mapping and models have advanced in recent years.Improvements were made,and the assessments have transitioned from qualitative to quantitative.Although this is an important advancement,the ES mapping and modelling validation step has been overlooked,and this raises an important question in the credibility of the outcomes.This has been an important and unsolved issue in the ES research community that needs to be tackled.This highlight paper discusses the importance of validating single ES mapping and models.Conducting this using field or proximal/remote sensing raw data and not data from other models or stakeholder evaluation is important.A validation step should be mandatory in ES frameworks since it can assess the models’veracity,contribute to identifying the model’s weaknesses/strengths and ultimately represent a scientific advance in the field.This is easier to apply to the biophysical mapping and models of regulating and provisioning ES than to cultural ES,as the latter rely more on perception and cultural contexts.Also,ES supply models are easier to validate than demand and flow models.Robust and well-grounded models are essential for ensuring the reliability of individual ES maps and models and should be integrated into decision-making processes.Although several challenges arise related to the costs of data collection,in several cases prohibitive,and the time and the expertise needed to conduct this sampling and analysis,this is likely an imperative step that needs to be considered in the future.This will be beneficial in establishing ES research and improving decision-making and wellbeing.展开更多
Cultural ecosystem services(CES),which encompass recreational and aesthetic values,contribute to human wellbeing and yet are often underrepresented in forest management planning due to challenges in quantifying these ...Cultural ecosystem services(CES),which encompass recreational and aesthetic values,contribute to human wellbeing and yet are often underrepresented in forest management planning due to challenges in quantifying these services.This study introduces the Recreational and Aesthetic Values of Forested Landscapes(RAFL)index,a novel framework combining six measurable recreational and aesthetic components:Stewardship,Naturalness,Complexity,Visual Scale,Historicity,and Ephemera.The RAFL index was integrated into a Linear Programming(LP)Resource Capability Model(RCM)to assess trade-offs between CES and other ecosystem services,including timber production,wildfire resistance,and biodiversity.The approach was applied in a case study in Northern Portugal,comparing two forest management scenarios:Business as Usual(BAU),dominated by eucalyptus plantations,and an Alternative Scenario(ALT),focused on the conversion to native species:cork oak,chestnut,and pedunculate oak.Results revealed that the ALT scenario consistently achieved higher RAFL values,reflecting its potential to enhance CES,while also supporting higher biodiversity and wildfire resilience compared to the BAU scenario.Results highlighted further that management may maintain steady timber production and wildfire regulatory services while addressing concerns with CES.This study provides a replicable methodology for quantifying CES and integrating them into forest management frameworks,offering actionable insights for decision-makers.The findings highlight the effectiveness of the approach in designing landscape mosaics that provide CES while addressing the need to supply provisioning and regulatory ecosystem services.展开更多
This review aims to analyze the development and impact of Artificial Intelligence(AI)in the context of Saudi Arabia’s public healthcare system to fulfill Vision 2030 objectives.It is extensively devoted to AI technol...This review aims to analyze the development and impact of Artificial Intelligence(AI)in the context of Saudi Arabia’s public healthcare system to fulfill Vision 2030 objectives.It is extensively devoted to AI technology deployment relevant to disease management,healthcare delivery,epidemiology,and policy-making.However,its AI is culturally sensitive and ethically grounded in Islam.Based on the PRISMA framework,an SLR evaluated primary academic literature,cases,and practices of Saudi Arabia’s AI implementation in the public healthcare sector.Instead,it categorizes prior research based on how AI can work,the issues it poses,and its implications for the Kingdom’s healthcare system.The Saudi Arabian context analyses show that AI has increased the discreet prediction of diseases,resource management,and monitoring outbreaks during mass congregations such as hajj.Therefore,the study outlines critical areas for defining the potential for artificial intelligence and areas for enhancing digital development to support global healthcare progress.The key themes emerging from the review include Saudi Arabia:(i)the effectiveness of AI with human interaction for sustainable health services;(ii)conditions and quality control to enhance the quality of health care services using AI;(iii)environmental factors as influencing factors for public health care;(iv)Artificial Intelligence,and advanced decision-making technology for Middle Eastern health care systems.For policymakers,healthcare managers,and researchers who will engage with AI innovation,the review proclaims that AI applications should respect the country’s socio-cultural and ethical practices and pave the way for sustainable healthcare provision.More empirical research is needed on the implementation issues with AI,creating culturally appropriate models of AI,and finding new applications of AI to address the increasing demand for healthcare services in Saudi Arabia.展开更多
Global warming and climate change have made food production through conventional agriculture inefficient, and their effects on livestock and crop cultivation are leading to disruptions in the food supply. The troubles...Global warming and climate change have made food production through conventional agriculture inefficient, and their effects on livestock and crop cultivation are leading to disruptions in the food supply. The troubles are severe in regions suffering from improper land management and unsustainable practices. The Bio-CircularGreen(BCG) economic model, designed to reduce and recycle resources by using environmentally friendly procedures, has been developed. The Azolla plant represents an interesting model for BCG and for enhancing community networks in Southeast Asia(SEA) because it provides multipurpose materials. Azolla can be used for various applications in agriculture such as biofertilizer and animal feed. However, our understanding and utilization of Azolla are limited. Moreover, collaboration among farmers is insufficient to maximize the benefits of Azolla. In this study, we provide a comprehensive review of the role of Azolla in agriculture. We review the main properties of Azolla as biofertilizers, especially regarding rice production and the interaction with cyanobacteria. For livestock, we discuss procedures to use Azolla in animal feed and evaluate the ingredients of the meal. In addition, we discuss product qualities from livestock treated with Azolla in the diet. This review also describes Azolla-based farming, which is designed for efficient land use and promotes nutrient cycling.Hence, we show that the Azolla plant is one of the key factors for farm-based agroecosystem services which can drive sustainable bioresource management in SEA. Moreover, we also propose the potential development of Azolla to improve its properties as a biofertilizer, a functional feed for animals and humans, and a feedstock for bio-oil production.展开更多
Urban forest parks deliver a wide spectrum of ecosystem services that support biodiversity,climate regulation,and public well-being;however,their perceived value among local visitors remains underexplored in Southeast...Urban forest parks deliver a wide spectrum of ecosystem services that support biodiversity,climate regulation,and public well-being;however,their perceived value among local visitors remains underexplored in Southeast Asia.This study investigates visitor perceptions and economic valuation of ecosystem services at Mount Pulai Forest Eco Park in Johor,Malaysia.Grounded in the Total Economic Value(TEV)framework and ecosystem service theory,the research employed a structured on-site survey of 392 visitors and applied the Contingent Valuation Method(CVM)to assess awareness,appreciation,and willingness-to-pay(WTP)for forest conservation.Findings revealed that visitors highly valued regulating services,such as air purification and flood mitigation(mean≈4.3/5),and supporting services,like biodiversity(mean≈4.2/5),while provisioning services were rated lower(mean≈2.8/5).Despite limited familiarity with ecological terminology,only 33%understood the term“ecosystem services”.In contrast,a substantial majority(79.1%)expressed WTP for conservation efforts,proposing an average annual contribution of MYR 51.32.Additionally,65%of respondents supported an entry fee model,suggesting a mean payment of MYR 3.07 per visit.These results underscore the economic and non-economic value that urban residents assign to forest benefits,offering new insights into conservation finance and public engagement.The study’s innovation lies in its integration of ecosystem perception with economic valuation in an urban forest setting,providing a replicable framework for sustainable park management across Southeast Asia.展开更多
The interplay between human and ecological systems has evolved from traditional conservation approaches to integrated socio-ecological frameworks that emphasise the co-production of ecosystem services.This paper aims ...The interplay between human and ecological systems has evolved from traditional conservation approaches to integrated socio-ecological frameworks that emphasise the co-production of ecosystem services.This paper aims to inspire new research pathways to advance the Nature's Contributions to People(NCP)perspective by focusing on terraced agroecosystems as emblematic landscapes that exemplify this co-production.Informed by recent studies in sustainability science,and drawing on our experience in Mediterranean environments,we explore the transformative potential of these frameworks for understanding and managing terraced landscapes.Addressing their multifunctionality,the challenges they face,and their socio-cultural and ecological significance,we highlight the importance of bridging scientific insights with local knowledge and participatory practices.We examine the use of advanced biophysical assessments,mapping tools,and stakeholder-driven approaches to enhance field assessment,monitoring capabilities and tackle management challenges under changing socio-economic conditions.We stress the urgent need for education and capacity-building initiatives to counteract indigenous knowledge loss and sustain traditional practices.Looking to the future,we propose potential avenues for research and practice that integrate ecological,cultural,and governance dimensions,contributing to the long-term sustainability of terraced landscapes and informing broader efforts for sustainable land management in an era of rapid environmental change.展开更多
Accurately forecasting ecosystem services is critical for enhancing our understanding and improving management practices within nature reserves,particularly in light of climate change,land use/cover changes,and their ...Accurately forecasting ecosystem services is critical for enhancing our understanding and improving management practices within nature reserves,particularly in light of climate change,land use/cover changes,and their complex interactions.However,existing studies often fail to fully consider vegetation response,constituting a gap in the comprehensive assessment of changes in ecosystem services.Therefore,a coupled model framework integrating climate change,land use change,and vegetation dynamics was developed to allow for the simulation of dynamic ecosystem service scenarios throughout the twenty-first century.The Jiulianshan National Nature Reserve in Jiangxi Province was considered as the study area.The results showed that ecosystem services and their synergistic effects will be optimized under scenarios that emphasize strict protection of ecological lands and incorporating the SSP1-2.6 scenario.However,sustaining optimized ecosystem services poses significant challenges in scenarios characterized by resource-intensive development and ongoing climate warming,as in the SSP5-8.5 scenario.Notably,discernible variations exist in balancing and synergizing the management of ecosystem services across diverse land uses and forest types.Our study underscores the importance of integrating vegetation response into the framework of ecosystem service forecasting,which is essential for assisting nature reserves in effectively addressing the multifaceted risks associated with climate change and rapid socio-economic development.展开更多
Urbanization develops with the goal of establishing improved and more sustainable habitats for residents.Environmental and social performance must be simultaneously monitored to ascertain whether regions are progressi...Urbanization develops with the goal of establishing improved and more sustainable habitats for residents.Environmental and social performance must be simultaneously monitored to ascertain whether regions are progressing towards or deviating from the safe and just space(SJS)in urbanization.Despite relevant studies,the absence of indicators that bridge ecological preservation and human well-beings renders dual monitoring challenging.This study bridged the gap by exploring the interactions between urbanization,ecosystem services(ESs),and basic water,energy,and food(WEF)needs within the SJS framework across China and its provinces.By quantifying the minimum and actual demands for freshwater withdrawal,carbon emissions,phosphorus emissions,and land use,as well as the supply of ESs into unified biophysical indicators,we found that:(1)China can meet the basic WEF needs for all from 2000 to 2020,but only water and land provisioning ESs can operate within the SJS.Carbon emissions surpassed the sequestration capacity in 2010,while phosphorus purification ES has consistently been unsafe.(2)The SJS performance in terms of ecological and social fulfilment exhibited scale differences and undergone changes with urbanization.Overall,no province in China can consistently operate within all SJSs.(3)In the process of urbanization,improvements in ecological protection and production practices in most provinces expanded the size of SJS,but the continuous increase in total demand failed to steer regions toward safer spaces.Our framework emphasized the common but differentiated pathways that regions at varying stages of urbanization navigate to achieve safety and justice.It also provides an applicable solution for regions aiming to pursue urban growth while maintaining ecological conservation and social justice,ultimately achieving sustainable development.展开更多
Central Asia(CA)faces escalating threats from increasing temperature,glacier retreat,biodiversity loss,unsustainable water use,terminal lake shrinkage,and soil salinization,all of which challenge the balance between e...Central Asia(CA)faces escalating threats from increasing temperature,glacier retreat,biodiversity loss,unsustainable water use,terminal lake shrinkage,and soil salinization,all of which challenge the balance between ecological integrity and socio-economic development essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goals.However,a comprehensive understanding of priority areas from a multi-dimensional perspective is lacking,hindering effective conservation and development strategies.To address this,we developed a comprehensive assessment framework with a tailored indicator system,enabling a spatial evaluation of CA’s priority areas by integrating biodiversity,ecosystem services(ESs),and human activities.Combining zonation and geographical detectors,this approach facilitates spatial prioritization and examines ecological and socio-economic heterogeneity.Our findings reveal a heterogeneous distribution of priority areas across CA,with significant concentrations in eastern mountainous regions,river valleys,and oasis agricultural lands.We identified 184 key districts crucial for ecological and societal sustainability.Attribution analysis shows that natural factors like soil types,precipitation,and evapotranspiration significantly shape these areas,influencing human activities and the distribution of biodiversity and ESs.Multi-dimensional analysis indicates existing protected areas cover only 15%of the top 30%priority areas,revealing substantial conservation gaps.Additionally,a 38%overlap between ESs and human activities,along with 63.25%congruence in integrated areas,underscores significant human impacts on ecological systems and their dependency on ESs.Given CA’s limited resources,it is crucial to implement measures that strengthen conservation efforts,align ecological preservation with socio-economic demands,and enhance resource efficiency through sustainable integrated land and water resource management.展开更多
Cultural ecosystem services(CES)provided by urban green infrastructure are essential for enhancing social well-being and resilience.Identifying and mapping CES at a local scale is crucial for informed land-use decisio...Cultural ecosystem services(CES)provided by urban green infrastructure are essential for enhancing social well-being and resilience.Identifying and mapping CES at a local scale is crucial for informed land-use decisions that align with citizens'perceptions.However,research on ecosystem services in Romania has been limited,with a notable gap in the assessment of CES provided by urban green spaces.This study is the first to focus on Băneasa Forest,the only urban forest in Bucharest,which serves as a vital recreational area for thousands of residents and visitors.For the first time in Romania,this research uses a web-based Participatory GIS survey to collect spatially referenced data.The survey,which combines questionnaires and mapping exercises,allows us to produce high-resolution CES maps based on 816 responses.The results reveal that the forest's natural characteristics are perceived as the primary contributors to CES.These findings are valuable for urban planners,as they highlight the needs and expectations of forest visitors,promote conservation efforts,and foster collaboration to prevent conflicts.Alongside factors frequently discussed in the literature,such as age and accessibility,the percentage of green space in residents'neighborhoods emerges as a significant factor influencing CES preferences.This insight presents a novel contribution to the literature,being of particular importance for urban planners and policymakers,as it underscores the need to consider not just the green space within parks and forests,but also the broader context of surrounding neighborhoods when planning for CES.Understanding that the availability of nearby green space influences residents'CES preferences can guide more effective strategies to enhance access to CES in urban areas,both in Bucharest and elsewhere.This is especially relevant in the face of climate change and other emerging challenges,which are likely to increase the demand for CES in the future.展开更多
Marine protected areas(MPAs)play a critical role in maintaining marine ecosystem health,conserving biodiversity,and sustaining coastal livelihoods and socio-economic benefits.However,MPAs in China still face significa...Marine protected areas(MPAs)play a critical role in maintaining marine ecosystem health,conserving biodiversity,and sustaining coastal livelihoods and socio-economic benefits.However,MPAs in China still face significant design and management limitations,including a lack of a robust scientific basis for boundary delineation,weak enforcement capacity,poor adaptability to environmental and socio-economic changes,and insufficient integration of the ocean’s three-dimensional characteristics.These limitations are particularly evident in the context of climate change,overexploitation of marine resources,and the complex dynamics of ecosystems.This study systematically reviews the current status and challenges of MPAs in China,with a specific focus on the need for and benefits of dynamic and threedimensional protected areas for marine conservation.Dynamic protected areas,supported by real-time monitoring and flexible boundary adjustments,can more effectively respond to the migratory patterns of marine species and seasonal distribution shifts along China’s coast.On the other hand,three-dimensional protected areas enhance ecosystem protection by incorporating vertical ecological gradients and ocean depth,offering a vital complement to the predominantly two-dimensional protection approach currently in use.The study indicates that,with current technological and data capabilities,effective implementation of these advanced approaches requires precision marine observations,advanced analysis methods,and coordinated efforts among diverse stakeholders.In response,the study synthesizes multiple case studies to illustrate the potential ecological,managerial,and policy-related outcomes of dynamic and three-dimensional MPAs.It proposes strategies for optimization,implementation pathways,and targeted policy recommendations.Ultimately,the study emphasizes the critical role of scientific planning and technological innovation in enhancing the effectiveness of MPAs in China.It calls upon policymakers and the broader society to increase attention and investment in dynamic and three-dimensional marine conservation approaches.This work not only provides a scientific foundation for more precise and efficient marine governance in China,but also lays crucial foundation for achieving ocean-related sustainable development goals aligned with China’s national context.展开更多
The relationship between ecosystem services(ES)and human well-being(HWB)is fundamental to the science and practice of sustainability.However,studies have shown conflicting results,which has been attributed to the infl...The relationship between ecosystem services(ES)and human well-being(HWB)is fundamental to the science and practice of sustainability.However,studies have shown conflicting results,which has been attributed to the influences of indicators,contexts,and scales.Yet,another potential factor,which has been overlooked,may be the mixed use of spatial and temporal approaches.Using twelve ES and seven well-being indicators and multiple statistical methods,we quantified and compared the spatial and temporal ES–HWB relationships for Inner Mongolia,China.The spatial and temporal relationships differed in both correlation direction and strength.Most relationships of economic and employment-related indicators with food provisioning and supporting services were temporally positive but spatially nonsignificant or negative.Some relationships of economic and employmentrelated indicators with water retention,sandstorm prevention,and wind erosion were temporally negative but spatially complex.However,the spatial and temporal ES–HWB relationships could also be similar in some cases.We conclude that although both the spatial and temporal approaches have merits,space generally cannot substitute for time in the study of ES–HWB relationship.Our study helps reconcile the seemingly conflicting findings in the literature,and suggests that future studies should explicitly distinguish between the spatial and temporal ES–HWB relationships.展开更多
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(42377326 and 42201267)National Research-Development Support Plan Projects of China(Grant No.2017YFC05054)the Fujian Provincial Water Resources Department Science and Technology Project(MSK202308)。
文摘The Guangdong,Jiangxi and Fujian(GJF)provinces,located in the subtropical region of southeastern China,is one of the national key regions for soil erosion control and ecological restoration.This region is characterized by extensive red soil development and high rainfall erosivity,making it a representative landscape for exploring the interactions between land use change(LUC)and ecosystem services(ES).Despite the recognized importance of ES in hilly regions,comprehensive assessing the impacts of LUC on ES remain limited.This study investigates five key ES:water yield,soil conservation,carbon conservation,food supply,and habitat quality in GJF region from 2000 to 2020.By applying the InVEST model and the Geodetector method,we assessed the trade-offs,synergies,and transitions among ES,identified the natural and social drivers of ES dynamics,and quantified the contribution of LUC to ES changes using the ecosystem service contribution index.The results showed that cropland and woodland were the dominant land use types.Ecological restoration efforts positively influenced ES,with synergies intensifying and trade-offs diminishing over time.Land use conversions,particularly among woodland,grassland,and cropland,exerted significant impacts on ES.In particular,the conversion of woodland to other land uses had markedly negative effects on soil conservation,carbon conservation,and habitat quality.Forest cover was identified as a major driver of ES dynamics.These findings highlight the importance of maintaining and expanding forest and grassland cover,strengthening red soil conservation,and optimizing land use structure to achieve coordinated ecological protection and socioeconomic development in the subtropical hilly regions of southern China.
基金Under the auspices of the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2022YFC3204404)。
文摘Quantifying and mapping how ecosystem services impact agricultural competitiveness is crucial for attaining the Sustainable Development Goals of United Nations.However,few study quantified agricultural competitiveness and mapped the effects of ecosystem services on agricultural competitiveness using multiple models.In this study,multi-source data from 2000 to 2020 were utilized to establish the indicator system of agricultural competitiveness;five ecosystem services were quantified using computation models;Geographic Information System(GIS)spatial analysis was used to explore the spatial patterns of agricultural competitiveness and ecosystem services;geographic detector models were applied to investigate the effects and driving mechanisms of ecosystem services on agricultural competitiveness.Shandong Province of China was selected as the case study area.The results demonstrated that:1)there was a significant increase in agricultural competitiveness during the study period,with high levels observed mainly in the east region of the study area.2)The spatial distribution patterns of ecosystem services and agricultural competitiveness primarily exhibited High-High and Low-Low Cluster types.3)Habitat quality emerged as the main driving factor of agricultural competitiveness in 2000 and 2020,while water yield played a substantial role in 2010.4)The coupling of two ecosystem services exerted a greater effect on agricultural competitiveness compared to individual ecosystem service.The innovations of this study are constructing an indicator system to quantify agricultural competitiveness,and exploring the effects of ecosystem services on agricultural competitiveness.This study proposed an indicator system to quantify agricultural competitiveness,which can be applied in other regions,and explored the effects of ecosystem services on agricultural competitiveness.The findings of this study can serve as valuable insights for policymakers to formulate tailored agricultural development policies that take into account the synergistic effects of ecosystem services on agricultural competitiveness.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(42101276)the Major Project of Key Research Bases for Humanities and Social Sciences Funded by the Ministry of Education of China(22JJD790015)the Science and Technology Project of Gansu Province,China(20JR5RA529).
文摘The Qinghai-Xizang Plateau(QXP)serves as a crucial ecological barrier in China and Asia,exerting profound influences on global climate and biodiversity conservation.Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture(hereinafter referred as Gannan Prefecture),located on the northeastern edge of the QXP,represents a fragile alpine ecosystem in which land use change significantly impacts ecosystem services(ESs).This study established a comprehensive framework,utilizing the Patch-generating Land-Use Simulation(PLUS)model coupled with the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs(InVEST)model to predict land use patterns under the natural development scenario,cultivated land protection scenario,and ecological protection scenario for Gannan Prefecture by 2030 and evaluated four critical ESs:habitat quality(HQ),water yield(WY),soil retention(SR),and carbon storage(CS).The primary aim is to elucidate the impacts of dynamic land use change on ESs.The results revealed that,from 2000 to 2020,HQ exhibited minimal variation,whereas CS experienced a slight decline.Conversely,WY and SR showed significant improvements.Under the natural development scenario,construction land was projected to increase by 4247.74 hm^(2),primarily at the expense of forest land.The cultivated land protection scenario anticipated an increase in farmland by 2634.36 hm^(2),which was crucial for maintaining food security.The ecological protection scenario predicted a notable expansion of forest land,accompanied by a restrained development rate of construction land.The ecological protection scenario also showed an increase in the ecosystem service index(ESI),encompassing 26.07%of the region.Forest land and grassland emerged as the primary contributors to ESs,while construction land substantially impacted WY.Water bodies exhibited minimal contribution to ESs.This study enhanced the understanding of land use change impacts on ESs in fragile and high-altitude ecosystems,offering essential theoretical frameworks and practical direction for forthcoming ecological policy and regional planning endeavors.
基金supported by the Second Tibetan Plateau Scien-tific Expedition and Research Program(STEP)of China(Grant No.2019QZKK0402).
文摘Ecosystems play a pivotal role in advancing Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)by providing indispensable and resilient ecosystem services(ESs).However,the limited analysis of spatiotemporal heterogeneity often re stricts the recognition of ESs’roles in attaining SDGs and landscape planning.We selected 183 counties in the Sichuan Province as the study area and mapped 10 SDGs and 7 ESs from 2000 to 2020.We used correlation analysis,principal component analysis,Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression model,and self organizing maps to reveal the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of the impacts of the bundle of ESs on the SDGs and to develop spatial planning and management strategies.The results showed that(1)SDGs were improved in all counties,with SDG 1(No Poverty)and SDG 3(Good Health and Well-being)exhibiting poor performance.West ern Sichuan demonstrated stronger performance in environment-related SDGs in the Sichuan Province,while the Sichuan Basin showed better progress in socio-economic-related SDGs;(2)habitat quality,carbon sequestration,air pollution removal,and soil retention significantly influenced the development of 9 SDGs;(3)supporting,regulating,and provisioning service bundles have persistent and stable spatiotemporal heterogeneity effects on SDG1,SDG8,SDG11,SDG13,and SDG15.These findings substantiate the need for integrated management of multiple ESs and facilitate the regional achievement of SDGs in geographically intricate areas.
基金funded by the Directorate General of Higher Education,Research,and Technology,Ministry of Education,Culture,Research,and Technology,Indonesia,under the Research Program Implementation Contract for the year 2024 under subcontract number 027/ES/PG.02.00.PL/2024.
文摘The Jabodetabek Metropolitan Area(JMA),Indonesia’s largest urban agglomeration,faces severe challenges due to rapid population growth and environmental degradation.Expanding urban areas has led to a reduction in green spaces,damaging ecosystem services,and exacerbating urban heat island effect,soil erosion,and flood risk.Therefore,this study identified key ecosystem service indicators,including Urban Heat Mitigation(UHM),Sediment Retention(SR),and Flood Risk Mitigation(FRM),and defined the spatial pattern of ecosystem services and its management zones in the JMA in 2024.Spatial data and ecosystem service indicators were analyzed using the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs(InVEST)and spatial clustering analysis tool(e.g.,Rustiadi’s Quantitative Zoning Method(RQZM)Ⅱ),and the results served as the basis for formulating strategic recommendations.This study highlighted significant regional disparities.Jakarta,Tangerang Regency,Bekasi Regency,Depok City,Tangerang City,South Tangerang City,and Bekasi City experienced the increase of urban heat effect and flood risk due to dense infrastructure and limited green spaces.Conversely,southern peri-urban areas of Bogor Regency demonstrated higher ecological capacities,particularly in water infiltration and temperature regulation,but remained vulnerable to soil erosion due to urban expansion.The results underscored the critical imbalance between growing urban demands and the diminishing capacity of peri-urban areas to supply ecosystem services,which is driven by the transformation of green spaces into built-up areas.To address these challenges,this study proposed the Nature-Based Solutions(NBS)by emphasizing forested area conservation in the southern region of the JMA,natural landscape restoration and rehabilitation in the central region,and a hybrid of natural and artificial ecosystem creation in the northern region.
基金the support of the Second Tibetan Plateau Scientific Expedition and Research(Grant No.2019QZKK0603)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC)(Grant No.42250410329)the President’s International Fellowship Initiative(PIFI)for Visiting Scientists of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(Grants No.2021VCA0005 and 2023VCC0005)。
文摘Ecosystem degradation and the loss of ecosystem services stem from multiple causes,requiring coordinated and diverse policies,legislation,and institutional responses to effectively address them.An understanding of the policies,legislation,and institutions governing ecosystem services can enhance the sustained management and provision of ecosystem services.Therefore,this work appraises the policies,legislation and institutional provisions made by the government of Nepal.In addition,this study analyzes policy implications and identifies gaps and barriers that hinder future improvements in the management of ecosystem services.Altogether,63 documents comprising 45 policies and 18 legislations promulgated by the government of Nepal have been assessed for content analysis.Twenty Key Informant Interviews(KIIs)have also been conducted to obtain expert insights about the gaps in policy formulation and implementation.The results indicate that though several sectoral policies and legislations have made provision on management of ecosystem and its services implicitly or explicitly,still there is lacking of overarching framework to deal with ecosystem services.Overlapping roles and responsibilities outlined in the constitution,policies,and legislation,coupled with weak enforcement and lack of multisectoral coordination mechanism,are significant obstacles to effective policy implementation.Therefore,there is a need to develop an overarching national framework backed up by legislation with a strong multisectoral coordination mechanism that will adopt a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to the sustained management and provision of the ecosystem and its services.
基金supported by the project MApping and Forecasting Ecosystem Services in Urban Areas(MAFESUR)funded by the Lithuanian Research Council(Contract:Nr.P-MIP-23-426).
文摘Coastal tourism holds substantial development potential.However,coastal ecosystems are affected by tourism development,which limits the supply of ecosystem services(ES).This study aims to conduct a systematic literature review on the impacts of tourism on coastal and marine ES using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-alpha Methods.We initially identified 640 studies by searching titles,abstracts,and keywords.After screening,only 50 studies met the criteria for inclusion in the review.The results showed a significant increase in publications between 2011 and 2023.Most studies were conducted in Europe,Asia,and North and Central America.The most used ES classifications were MEA and CICES.Most studies concentrated on the ES supply dimension(43 studies;86%).Cultural ES(47 studies;94%)were researched more than provisioning(28 studies;56%)and regulating&maintenance(29 studies;58%)sections.Regarding cultural ES,most studies were focused on“Physical and experiential interactions with the natural environment”(34 studies;68%)and on provisioning ES on“Wild animals(terrestrial and aquatic)for nutrition,materials or energy”(18 studies;36%).Quantitative and mixed methods were the most used in the reviewed studies.Most studies identified pressures from“Tourism,urbanisation,and population increase”(27 studies;54%)and focused on“Integrative/common management strategies”(20 studies;40%).Only a few of the studies’results have been validated by external data(10 studies;20%).This study provides an overview of the most assessed marine and coastal ES,where studies are needed with more comprehensive geographic coverage.
文摘Existing Internet of Things(IoT)systems that rely on Amazon Web Services(AWS)often encounter inefficiencies in data retrieval and high operational costs,especially when using DynamoDB for large-scale sensor data.These limitations hinder the scalability and responsiveness of applications such as remote energy monitoring systems.This research focuses on designing and developing an Arduino-based IoT system aimed at optimizing data transmission costs by concentrating on these services.The proposed method employs AWS Lambda functions with Amazon Relational Database Service(RDS)to facilitate the transmission of data collected from temperature and humidity sensors to the RDS database.In contrast,the conventional method utilizes AmazonDynamoDB for storing the same sensor data.Data were collected from 01 April 2022,to 26 August 2022,in Tokyo,Japan,focusing on temperature and relative humiditywitha resolutionof oneminute.The efficiency of the twomethods—conventional andproposed—was assessed in terms of both time and cost metrics,with a particular focus on data retrieval.The conventional method exhibited linear time complexity,leading to longer data retrieval times as the dataset grew,mainly due to DynamoDB’s pagination requirements and the parsing of payload data during the reading process.In contrast,the proposed method significantly reduced retrieval times for larger datasets by parsing payload data before writing it to the RDS database.Cost analysis revealed a savings of$1.56 per month with the adoption of the proposed approach for a 20-gigabyte database.
基金supported by the project Monetary valuation of soil ecosystem services and creation of initiatives to invest in soil health:setting a framework for the inclusion of soil health in business and in the policy making process(InBestSoil)(Horizon Europe)Grant agreement ID:101091099。
文摘Ecosystem services(ES)mapping and models have advanced in recent years.Improvements were made,and the assessments have transitioned from qualitative to quantitative.Although this is an important advancement,the ES mapping and modelling validation step has been overlooked,and this raises an important question in the credibility of the outcomes.This has been an important and unsolved issue in the ES research community that needs to be tackled.This highlight paper discusses the importance of validating single ES mapping and models.Conducting this using field or proximal/remote sensing raw data and not data from other models or stakeholder evaluation is important.A validation step should be mandatory in ES frameworks since it can assess the models’veracity,contribute to identifying the model’s weaknesses/strengths and ultimately represent a scientific advance in the field.This is easier to apply to the biophysical mapping and models of regulating and provisioning ES than to cultural ES,as the latter rely more on perception and cultural contexts.Also,ES supply models are easier to validate than demand and flow models.Robust and well-grounded models are essential for ensuring the reliability of individual ES maps and models and should be integrated into decision-making processes.Although several challenges arise related to the costs of data collection,in several cases prohibitive,and the time and the expertise needed to conduct this sampling and analysis,this is likely an imperative step that needs to be considered in the future.This will be beneficial in establishing ES research and improving decision-making and wellbeing.
基金supported by the Forest Research Centre,a research unit funded by Fundacao para a Ciencia e a Tecnologia I.P.(FCT),Portugal(UIDB/00239/2020)the Associated Laboratory TERRA(LA/P/0092/2020)+4 种基金Additional funding was provided through the Ph.D.grant awarded to Dagm Abate(UI/BD/151525/2021)by two key projects:H2020-MSCA-RISE-2020/101007950,titled“DecisionES-Decision Support for the Supply of Ecosystem Services under Global Change,”funded by the Marie Curie International Staff Exchange Scheme,H2020-LCGD-2020-3/101037419,titled“FIRE-RES-Innovative technologies and socio-ecological economic solutions for fireresilient territories in Europe,”funded by the EU Horizon 2020—Research and Innovation Framework Programmesupported by a project MODFIRE—a multiple criteria approach to integrate wildfire behavior in forest management planning with reference PCIF/MOS/0217/2017a contract from Dr.Susete Marques in the scope of Norma Transitoria—DL57/2016/CP1382/CT15a grant from Fundacao para a Ciencia e a Tecnologia(FCT),Portugal to Dr.Guerra-Hernandez(CEECIND/02576/2022).
文摘Cultural ecosystem services(CES),which encompass recreational and aesthetic values,contribute to human wellbeing and yet are often underrepresented in forest management planning due to challenges in quantifying these services.This study introduces the Recreational and Aesthetic Values of Forested Landscapes(RAFL)index,a novel framework combining six measurable recreational and aesthetic components:Stewardship,Naturalness,Complexity,Visual Scale,Historicity,and Ephemera.The RAFL index was integrated into a Linear Programming(LP)Resource Capability Model(RCM)to assess trade-offs between CES and other ecosystem services,including timber production,wildfire resistance,and biodiversity.The approach was applied in a case study in Northern Portugal,comparing two forest management scenarios:Business as Usual(BAU),dominated by eucalyptus plantations,and an Alternative Scenario(ALT),focused on the conversion to native species:cork oak,chestnut,and pedunculate oak.Results revealed that the ALT scenario consistently achieved higher RAFL values,reflecting its potential to enhance CES,while also supporting higher biodiversity and wildfire resilience compared to the BAU scenario.Results highlighted further that management may maintain steady timber production and wildfire regulatory services while addressing concerns with CES.This study provides a replicable methodology for quantifying CES and integrating them into forest management frameworks,offering actionable insights for decision-makers.The findings highlight the effectiveness of the approach in designing landscape mosaics that provide CES while addressing the need to supply provisioning and regulatory ecosystem services.
基金funded by the Scientific ResearchDeanship at theUniversity ofHa’il-Saudi Arabia through project number-RG-23251.
文摘This review aims to analyze the development and impact of Artificial Intelligence(AI)in the context of Saudi Arabia’s public healthcare system to fulfill Vision 2030 objectives.It is extensively devoted to AI technology deployment relevant to disease management,healthcare delivery,epidemiology,and policy-making.However,its AI is culturally sensitive and ethically grounded in Islam.Based on the PRISMA framework,an SLR evaluated primary academic literature,cases,and practices of Saudi Arabia’s AI implementation in the public healthcare sector.Instead,it categorizes prior research based on how AI can work,the issues it poses,and its implications for the Kingdom’s healthcare system.The Saudi Arabian context analyses show that AI has increased the discreet prediction of diseases,resource management,and monitoring outbreaks during mass congregations such as hajj.Therefore,the study outlines critical areas for defining the potential for artificial intelligence and areas for enhancing digital development to support global healthcare progress.The key themes emerging from the review include Saudi Arabia:(i)the effectiveness of AI with human interaction for sustainable health services;(ii)conditions and quality control to enhance the quality of health care services using AI;(iii)environmental factors as influencing factors for public health care;(iv)Artificial Intelligence,and advanced decision-making technology for Middle Eastern health care systems.For policymakers,healthcare managers,and researchers who will engage with AI innovation,the review proclaims that AI applications should respect the country’s socio-cultural and ethical practices and pave the way for sustainable healthcare provision.More empirical research is needed on the implementation issues with AI,creating culturally appropriate models of AI,and finding new applications of AI to address the increasing demand for healthcare services in Saudi Arabia.
基金Mahidol University for the support of a “Scholarship for PhD Student”, Thailandthe the cooperation with the National Science and Technology Development Agency and Mahidol University of “the Scholarship for the Development of High Quality Research Graduates in Science and Technology Project”, Thailand。
文摘Global warming and climate change have made food production through conventional agriculture inefficient, and their effects on livestock and crop cultivation are leading to disruptions in the food supply. The troubles are severe in regions suffering from improper land management and unsustainable practices. The Bio-CircularGreen(BCG) economic model, designed to reduce and recycle resources by using environmentally friendly procedures, has been developed. The Azolla plant represents an interesting model for BCG and for enhancing community networks in Southeast Asia(SEA) because it provides multipurpose materials. Azolla can be used for various applications in agriculture such as biofertilizer and animal feed. However, our understanding and utilization of Azolla are limited. Moreover, collaboration among farmers is insufficient to maximize the benefits of Azolla. In this study, we provide a comprehensive review of the role of Azolla in agriculture. We review the main properties of Azolla as biofertilizers, especially regarding rice production and the interaction with cyanobacteria. For livestock, we discuss procedures to use Azolla in animal feed and evaluate the ingredients of the meal. In addition, we discuss product qualities from livestock treated with Azolla in the diet. This review also describes Azolla-based farming, which is designed for efficient land use and promotes nutrient cycling.Hence, we show that the Azolla plant is one of the key factors for farm-based agroecosystem services which can drive sustainable bioresource management in SEA. Moreover, we also propose the potential development of Azolla to improve its properties as a biofertilizer, a functional feed for animals and humans, and a feedstock for bio-oil production.
基金funded by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia through research grant(SK-2024-006).
文摘Urban forest parks deliver a wide spectrum of ecosystem services that support biodiversity,climate regulation,and public well-being;however,their perceived value among local visitors remains underexplored in Southeast Asia.This study investigates visitor perceptions and economic valuation of ecosystem services at Mount Pulai Forest Eco Park in Johor,Malaysia.Grounded in the Total Economic Value(TEV)framework and ecosystem service theory,the research employed a structured on-site survey of 392 visitors and applied the Contingent Valuation Method(CVM)to assess awareness,appreciation,and willingness-to-pay(WTP)for forest conservation.Findings revealed that visitors highly valued regulating services,such as air purification and flood mitigation(mean≈4.3/5),and supporting services,like biodiversity(mean≈4.2/5),while provisioning services were rated lower(mean≈2.8/5).Despite limited familiarity with ecological terminology,only 33%understood the term“ecosystem services”.In contrast,a substantial majority(79.1%)expressed WTP for conservation efforts,proposing an average annual contribution of MYR 51.32.Additionally,65%of respondents supported an entry fee model,suggesting a mean payment of MYR 3.07 per visit.These results underscore the economic and non-economic value that urban residents assign to forest benefits,offering new insights into conservation finance and public engagement.The study’s innovation lies in its integration of ecosystem perception with economic valuation in an urban forest setting,providing a replicable framework for sustainable park management across Southeast Asia.
基金supported by the projects REACT4MED—Inclusive Outscaling of Agro-Ecosystem Restoration Actions for the Mediterranean,which is part of the PRIMA Programme supported by the European Union under Horizon 2020(Grant No.2122,Horizon 2020)SELINA—Science for Evidence-based and Sustainable Decisions about Natural Capital,funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Programme(Grant No.101060415)。
文摘The interplay between human and ecological systems has evolved from traditional conservation approaches to integrated socio-ecological frameworks that emphasise the co-production of ecosystem services.This paper aims to inspire new research pathways to advance the Nature's Contributions to People(NCP)perspective by focusing on terraced agroecosystems as emblematic landscapes that exemplify this co-production.Informed by recent studies in sustainability science,and drawing on our experience in Mediterranean environments,we explore the transformative potential of these frameworks for understanding and managing terraced landscapes.Addressing their multifunctionality,the challenges they face,and their socio-cultural and ecological significance,we highlight the importance of bridging scientific insights with local knowledge and participatory practices.We examine the use of advanced biophysical assessments,mapping tools,and stakeholder-driven approaches to enhance field assessment,monitoring capabilities and tackle management challenges under changing socio-economic conditions.We stress the urgent need for education and capacity-building initiatives to counteract indigenous knowledge loss and sustain traditional practices.Looking to the future,we propose potential avenues for research and practice that integrate ecological,cultural,and governance dimensions,contributing to the long-term sustainability of terraced landscapes and informing broader efforts for sustainable land management in an era of rapid environmental change.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32160292, 32471681, and 32201575)Jiangxi “Double Thousand Plan”(jxsq2020101080)+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province (20224BAB205008, 20224BAB213033, and 20242BAB2538)Jiangxi Province Science and Technology+Water Resources” Joint Plan Project (2023KSG01001 and 2022KSG01010)
文摘Accurately forecasting ecosystem services is critical for enhancing our understanding and improving management practices within nature reserves,particularly in light of climate change,land use/cover changes,and their complex interactions.However,existing studies often fail to fully consider vegetation response,constituting a gap in the comprehensive assessment of changes in ecosystem services.Therefore,a coupled model framework integrating climate change,land use change,and vegetation dynamics was developed to allow for the simulation of dynamic ecosystem service scenarios throughout the twenty-first century.The Jiulianshan National Nature Reserve in Jiangxi Province was considered as the study area.The results showed that ecosystem services and their synergistic effects will be optimized under scenarios that emphasize strict protection of ecological lands and incorporating the SSP1-2.6 scenario.However,sustaining optimized ecosystem services poses significant challenges in scenarios characterized by resource-intensive development and ongoing climate warming,as in the SSP5-8.5 scenario.Notably,discernible variations exist in balancing and synergizing the management of ecosystem services across diverse land uses and forest types.Our study underscores the importance of integrating vegetation response into the framework of ecosystem service forecasting,which is essential for assisting nature reserves in effectively addressing the multifaceted risks associated with climate change and rapid socio-economic development.
基金supported by Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of CPSF(Grant No.GZB20240816)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(Grant No.2024M753474)+3 种基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.72404267)National Social Science Fund(Grant No.23BGLI88)National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2017YFC0405805–04)Major program of the National Social Science Fund(Grant No.19ZDA084).
文摘Urbanization develops with the goal of establishing improved and more sustainable habitats for residents.Environmental and social performance must be simultaneously monitored to ascertain whether regions are progressing towards or deviating from the safe and just space(SJS)in urbanization.Despite relevant studies,the absence of indicators that bridge ecological preservation and human well-beings renders dual monitoring challenging.This study bridged the gap by exploring the interactions between urbanization,ecosystem services(ESs),and basic water,energy,and food(WEF)needs within the SJS framework across China and its provinces.By quantifying the minimum and actual demands for freshwater withdrawal,carbon emissions,phosphorus emissions,and land use,as well as the supply of ESs into unified biophysical indicators,we found that:(1)China can meet the basic WEF needs for all from 2000 to 2020,but only water and land provisioning ESs can operate within the SJS.Carbon emissions surpassed the sequestration capacity in 2010,while phosphorus purification ES has consistently been unsafe.(2)The SJS performance in terms of ecological and social fulfilment exhibited scale differences and undergone changes with urbanization.Overall,no province in China can consistently operate within all SJSs.(3)In the process of urbanization,improvements in ecological protection and production practices in most provinces expanded the size of SJS,but the continuous increase in total demand failed to steer regions toward safer spaces.Our framework emphasized the common but differentiated pathways that regions at varying stages of urbanization navigate to achieve safety and justice.It also provides an applicable solution for regions aiming to pursue urban growth while maintaining ecological conservation and social justice,ultimately achieving sustainable development.
基金funded by the Joint CAS-MPG Research Project(HZXM20225001MI)this research was also supported partly by the key program of National Natural Science Foundation of China(42230708)the Tianshan Talent Project of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region,China(2022TSYCLJ0056).
文摘Central Asia(CA)faces escalating threats from increasing temperature,glacier retreat,biodiversity loss,unsustainable water use,terminal lake shrinkage,and soil salinization,all of which challenge the balance between ecological integrity and socio-economic development essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goals.However,a comprehensive understanding of priority areas from a multi-dimensional perspective is lacking,hindering effective conservation and development strategies.To address this,we developed a comprehensive assessment framework with a tailored indicator system,enabling a spatial evaluation of CA’s priority areas by integrating biodiversity,ecosystem services(ESs),and human activities.Combining zonation and geographical detectors,this approach facilitates spatial prioritization and examines ecological and socio-economic heterogeneity.Our findings reveal a heterogeneous distribution of priority areas across CA,with significant concentrations in eastern mountainous regions,river valleys,and oasis agricultural lands.We identified 184 key districts crucial for ecological and societal sustainability.Attribution analysis shows that natural factors like soil types,precipitation,and evapotranspiration significantly shape these areas,influencing human activities and the distribution of biodiversity and ESs.Multi-dimensional analysis indicates existing protected areas cover only 15%of the top 30%priority areas,revealing substantial conservation gaps.Additionally,a 38%overlap between ESs and human activities,along with 63.25%congruence in integrated areas,underscores significant human impacts on ecological systems and their dependency on ESs.Given CA’s limited resources,it is crucial to implement measures that strengthen conservation efforts,align ecological preservation with socio-economic demands,and enhance resource efficiency through sustainable integrated land and water resource management.
基金supported by the University of Bucharest through the“People and trees”CIVIS project.
文摘Cultural ecosystem services(CES)provided by urban green infrastructure are essential for enhancing social well-being and resilience.Identifying and mapping CES at a local scale is crucial for informed land-use decisions that align with citizens'perceptions.However,research on ecosystem services in Romania has been limited,with a notable gap in the assessment of CES provided by urban green spaces.This study is the first to focus on Băneasa Forest,the only urban forest in Bucharest,which serves as a vital recreational area for thousands of residents and visitors.For the first time in Romania,this research uses a web-based Participatory GIS survey to collect spatially referenced data.The survey,which combines questionnaires and mapping exercises,allows us to produce high-resolution CES maps based on 816 responses.The results reveal that the forest's natural characteristics are perceived as the primary contributors to CES.These findings are valuable for urban planners,as they highlight the needs and expectations of forest visitors,promote conservation efforts,and foster collaboration to prevent conflicts.Alongside factors frequently discussed in the literature,such as age and accessibility,the percentage of green space in residents'neighborhoods emerges as a significant factor influencing CES preferences.This insight presents a novel contribution to the literature,being of particular importance for urban planners and policymakers,as it underscores the need to consider not just the green space within parks and forests,but also the broader context of surrounding neighborhoods when planning for CES.Understanding that the availability of nearby green space influences residents'CES preferences can guide more effective strategies to enhance access to CES in urban areas,both in Bucharest and elsewhere.This is especially relevant in the face of climate change and other emerging challenges,which are likely to increase the demand for CES in the future.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China under contract No.42176173.
文摘Marine protected areas(MPAs)play a critical role in maintaining marine ecosystem health,conserving biodiversity,and sustaining coastal livelihoods and socio-economic benefits.However,MPAs in China still face significant design and management limitations,including a lack of a robust scientific basis for boundary delineation,weak enforcement capacity,poor adaptability to environmental and socio-economic changes,and insufficient integration of the ocean’s three-dimensional characteristics.These limitations are particularly evident in the context of climate change,overexploitation of marine resources,and the complex dynamics of ecosystems.This study systematically reviews the current status and challenges of MPAs in China,with a specific focus on the need for and benefits of dynamic and threedimensional protected areas for marine conservation.Dynamic protected areas,supported by real-time monitoring and flexible boundary adjustments,can more effectively respond to the migratory patterns of marine species and seasonal distribution shifts along China’s coast.On the other hand,three-dimensional protected areas enhance ecosystem protection by incorporating vertical ecological gradients and ocean depth,offering a vital complement to the predominantly two-dimensional protection approach currently in use.The study indicates that,with current technological and data capabilities,effective implementation of these advanced approaches requires precision marine observations,advanced analysis methods,and coordinated efforts among diverse stakeholders.In response,the study synthesizes multiple case studies to illustrate the potential ecological,managerial,and policy-related outcomes of dynamic and three-dimensional MPAs.It proposes strategies for optimization,implementation pathways,and targeted policy recommendations.Ultimately,the study emphasizes the critical role of scientific planning and technological innovation in enhancing the effectiveness of MPAs in China.It calls upon policymakers and the broader society to increase attention and investment in dynamic and three-dimensional marine conservation approaches.This work not only provides a scientific foundation for more precise and efficient marine governance in China,but also lays crucial foundation for achieving ocean-related sustainable development goals aligned with China’s national context.
基金supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(Grant No.B240201068)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.42361144861)the National Basic Research Program of China(Grant No.2014CB954303).
文摘The relationship between ecosystem services(ES)and human well-being(HWB)is fundamental to the science and practice of sustainability.However,studies have shown conflicting results,which has been attributed to the influences of indicators,contexts,and scales.Yet,another potential factor,which has been overlooked,may be the mixed use of spatial and temporal approaches.Using twelve ES and seven well-being indicators and multiple statistical methods,we quantified and compared the spatial and temporal ES–HWB relationships for Inner Mongolia,China.The spatial and temporal relationships differed in both correlation direction and strength.Most relationships of economic and employment-related indicators with food provisioning and supporting services were temporally positive but spatially nonsignificant or negative.Some relationships of economic and employmentrelated indicators with water retention,sandstorm prevention,and wind erosion were temporally negative but spatially complex.However,the spatial and temporal ES–HWB relationships could also be similar in some cases.We conclude that although both the spatial and temporal approaches have merits,space generally cannot substitute for time in the study of ES–HWB relationship.Our study helps reconcile the seemingly conflicting findings in the literature,and suggests that future studies should explicitly distinguish between the spatial and temporal ES–HWB relationships.
