Dynamic modes and ecological effects of salt field utilization in the Weifang coastal area, China: Implications for territorial spatial planning

Harmonious coexistence between human and nature has been an important prerequisite for territorial spatial planning to construct ecological civilizations. The effective way is essential to quantify dynamic modes of land use changes and their ecological effects. Taking the coastal area of Weifang, eastern regions in China as a case study area, this paper quantified the spatiotemporal characteristics and ecosystem service value of salt field utilization using the theories and methods of geoscience analysis by using satellite imagery and land-use change survey data. The results showed that the area of salt field utilization first increased and then decreased with an upward trend in spatial separation. In the early study stage, the saline-alkali land was mainly developed into a salt field, following with the salt field into construction land, and the salt field into water. Changes in the utilization of salt fields reduced the value of ecosystem services by 3 million yuan RMB during the study period. Ecological value-added areas and ecological impaired areas were mainly located in economically developed areas such as Dajiawa Subdistrict, Yangzi Subdistrict and Yangkou Town. These results show that changes in the utilization of salt fields have different effects on ecosystem service values in different regions. It is necessary for Weifang to comprehensively control the utilization of salt fields, and to provide a reference for the preparation of territorial spatial planning.