Analysis of desertification and the driving factors over the Loess Plateau

Land desertification poses a severe global ecological threat. Loess Plateau, a typical region, was extensively studied. This study conducted a fitting analysis between the Vegetation Index: Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), kernel Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (kNDVI), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Albedo. A holistic analytical methodology was established, encompassing desertification evaluation, spatiotemporal changes, intensity, driving mechanisms, and management zoning. The results indicate that NDVI and albedo exhibit the best fit with an R-2 value of 0.72. Desertification primarily occurred in the northwest, displaying significant fluctuation. Climatic factors and human activities were the main drivers of Desertification Difference Index (DDI). Precipitation promoted DDI, while temperature inhibited it, and human activities primarily play a promoting role. Furthermore, management zones were delineated, encompassing ecological sensitive areas requiring urgent land protection, ecological restoration areas necessitating land management and restoration projects, ecological improvement areas and ecological stability areas aiming to maintain the existing ecological balance while concurrently strengthening monitoring.

Automated summary

Land desertification is a significant ecological threat globally, and the Loess Plateau serves as a typical region. This study establishes a comprehensive analytical methodology to evaluate the extent, spatiotemporal changes, intensity, driving mechanisms, and management zoning of desertification. The results suggest that NDVI and albedo are closely related to desertification, with climate factors and human activities as the main driving forces. The study also delineates different management zones to address the needs of ecological protection, restoration, and monitoring.