Spatial-temporal variations of ecological vulnerability in Jilin Province (China), 2000 to 2018

Abstract

As the main grain production area in China, Jilin Province has a significant ecological function in Northeast China. Scientifically understanding the spatial and temporal characteristics of ecological vulnerability can aid in effectively managing environmental changes, guiding rational use of land resources and developing strategies for regional environmental protection. Applying the Sensitivity Resilience Pressure (SRP) conceptual model of ecological vulnerability, integrated with meteorological, remote sensing, and statistical data, a comprehensive evaluation index system for ecological vulnerability was established in Jilin Province. An entropy weight model constructed with analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to calculate weights of each indicator. Using a geographical information system, the geospatial and temporal features of ecological vulnerability were analyzed from 2000 to 2018 in the study area. Spatial autocorrelation analysis was utilized to probe the spatial relationship. The results indicate that the ecological vulnerability was categorized a potential and light within the study area and that variations among different regions increased gradually from east to west. High levels of ecological vulnerability were mainly distributed in the western area, displaying a significant global spatial autocorrelation with high-high (HH) aggregation. Over time, the proportion of high vulnerability areas decreased from 14% in 2000 to 9% in 2018, while low vulnerability areas increased from 26% in 2000 to 29% in 2018. The results reflect the condition of the regional ecological environment, which could have implications for ecological protection and sustainable development in the Jilin Province.