Estimation of the ecological degeneration from changes in land use and land covers in the upper reaches of the Tarim River

Abstract

Based on research on the oasis-desert ecosystem, changes in land use of the Akesu-Awati oasis from 1990 to 2000 are analyzed through using the methods of 3S and statistics. A classification system of land use is created and 3S-integration is realized. Using the table of equivalent weight factors of the economic value of China's ecosystem services, the loss of ecological value resulting from land use changes are estimated. This research shows that changes of land use are notable. Areas of land use such as cropland, residential site and saline land amount increase rapidly in contrast to various degrees of reduction in grassland, forest land, water area and wetland. The ecological value has become negative, decreasing by 1.055×109 yuan. Given such great losses in the estimated economic value of ecosystem services, it is clear that the best development of society and economy in the research area will be achieved only through comprehensive, planned sustainable development.