Analysis of Spatial—Temporal Variation in Ecosystem Service Value in Shandong Province over the Last Two Decades

Abstract

During the rapid economic development process in Shandong Province, land use changes have led to the degradation of ecosystem service functions. Based on land cover data for the years 2000, 2010, and 2020, this study analyzes the spatiotemporal variation in land use and the corresponding ecosystem service value in Shandong Province. The research results reveal the following: (1) From 2000 to 2020, land use change is characterized by an increase in construction areas and water and a decrease in unused land, forestland, grassland, and cultivated land areas. Cultivated land was converted into construction land and grassland, and construction land was partially transformed into cultivated land in Shandong Province. The changes in land use types were more pronounced in the first decade compared to the later decade. (2) During the study period, the highest ESV among the primary service functions was observed in the regulating services, with hydrological regulation providing the highest ESV among the eleven secondary service categories. The spatial distribution of ESVs in Shandong Province is uneven. The high-value areas are concentrated in the Southern Four Lakes in Shandong Province and around Laizhou Bay. There was low ESV around mountainous areas in central Shandong Province. (3) Within the three time periods, cultivated land, grassland, and unused land provided a higher negative contribution rate, while water provided a higher positive contribution rate. Water had the highest positive contribution rate to ESV, while grassland and unused land had a higher negative contribution rate. Therefore, during the process of land development and utilization, it is important to pay attention to the impact of land use changes on the ecosystem, optimize the land use structure, restore ecologically fragile areas, and promote the sustainable development of the ecosystem and the economy.