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Dynamic interactions between karst desertification and rural functions in South China Karst

Year: 2025
Type: preprint
Abstract: The relationship between karst desertification (KD) and rural functions may evolve with urbanization and the implementation of ecological engineering. However, large-scale assessments of these evolving interrelationships remain limited. In this study, we examined 85 counties in Guizhou Province using multi-factor comprehensive evaluation method and bivariate spatial autocorrelation model to estimate the spatiotemporal changes in KD, rural multifunction, and their interrelationships. The results indicate that from 2005 to 2020, the level of KD in Guizhou Province significantly decreased, with the karst desertification index (KDI) dropping from 0.669 to 0.376. Rural production, living, and ecological functions all demonstrated significant improvement. Notably, the enhancement of rural production and living functions was more pronounced, whereas the improvement in ecological function was comparatively less significant. Moreover, the degree of coupling coordination among the three rural functions continuously increased. Regarding the relationship between KD and rural functions, there was a spatially positive correlation between KD and rural production function in 2005, which subsequently shifted to a spatially negative correlation from 2015 to 2020. Overall, KD control measures have promoted the improvement of the coupling coordination degree of rural functions by restricting rural production function and enhancing living and ecological functions. Our findings provide new insights into the relationship between KD and rural functions and have significant implications for policies aimed at achieving coordinated ecological restoration and rural development.
DOI: 10.22541/au.175821328.82282426/v1
Authors: Rong Zhao, Kangning Xiong, Zhaojun Liu
Language: English
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4414313188
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