Enhancing resilience against geological hazards and soil erosion through sustainable vegetation management: A case study in Shaanxi Province

As an important component of terrestrial ecosystems, vegetation performs a necessary function in linking the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere as well as soil sphere. The response of vegetation to its driving factors has been a hot research issue that needs to be further explored. Here, the temporal and spatial changes in vegetation cover in Shaanxi Province from 2000 to 2020 was characterized, and the responses to topographic elements, climate factors, geological hazards, and human activities was addressed. The outcomes proved that the average annual vegetation coverage in Shaanxi Province displayed a slight upward trend with a growing rate of 0.0545/10a. Specifically, enhanced vegetation index (EVI) increased significantly in most parts of the study area, while EVI decreased significantly in the border areas of Xi'an and Xianyang. There are differences in the effects of the driving factors on vegetation change during the study period. According to correlation analysis, vegetation was positively associated with temperature and negatively associated with precipitation. In addition, when the elevation was under 2500 m, EVI increased with elevation, while when the elevation used to be above 2500 m, EVI decreased with elevation. Moreover, geological disasters and soil erosion are the major driving factors in the reduction of vegetation cover. Human activities and national policies are the main driving factors for vegetation recovery in the study area. The results of the study are of great significance for ecosystem monitoring and provide a scientific basis for ecosystem restoration.