Sand fixation function response to climate change and land use in northern China from 1981 to 2015

Abstract

• The dynamics of sand fixation was identified in northern China from 1981 to 2015. • Effect of climate change on sand fixation was more significant than effect of LUCC. • Solar radiation was the dominant climatic factor for sand fixation changes. • Desertification control had a great influence on the increase of sand fixation. Wind erosion creates one of the most serious environmental problems in arid and semi-arid regions. The sand fixation function of vegetation can control hazards created by sandstorms and is closely related to the ecological stability of entire regions and to human well-being. In order to formulate measures to control wind erosion and achieve sustainable development in desert ecosystems, this paper identified the dynamics of sand fixation function, based on the Revised Wind Erosion Equation (RWEQ) model, in northern China from 1981 to 2015 and its relationship to changes in climate and land use. The results showed that sand fixation function has changed significantly in northern China over the past 35 years, and the spatial distribution exhibited considerable heterogeneity. In aspect of regions experiencing a significant increase of sand fixation function, changes in climate and land use accounted for 69.74% and 23.85%, respectively, which was mainly attributed to a decrease in solar radiation and desertification control. Changes in climate and land use accounted for 47.75% and 8.56%, respectively. Specifically, the coupled effects of temperature, precipitation, and wind speed were the main climate drivers of sand fixation function, and grassland degradation was the main land use driver. Future planning and management of land use will need to further strengthen the sand fixation function on the landscape and develop the ecological security barriers in northern China.