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Effluents from paper mills are highly toxic and are a major source of aquatic pollution. In this study, we collected water and sediment samples to examine the microbial communities using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis and identified bacterial taxa greatly affected by paper mill pollution using next-generation sequencing data. Our results indicated that bacterial communities in downstream sediments were similar to those in paper mill discharge sites, indicating obvious effects of pollution, while bacterial communities in downstream water samples showed similar profiles to those in upstream sites, both being quite different from the bacterial communities in paper mill discharge sites. This was possibly because of the short contact period. In addition, bacterial communities in the estuary were quite different from those in other water and sediment samples, which was owing to the special habitat type. Considering the storage of paper mill pollutants in sediment and the significant effect on shifts in bacterial communities, we selected Clostridia and Epsilonproteobacteria at the class level and Fusibacter and Desulfobulbus at the genus level as bacterial indicators of paper mill pollution. To monitor the remediation of polluted aquatic environments, we propose Sphingobacteria , Alphaproteobacteria , Actinobacteria , Subdivision3 , Planctomycetacia and Verrucomicrobiae at the class level and Bacillus , Steroidobacter , Nocardioides , Terrimonas , Pirellula and Methylibium at the genus level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We studied ecotoxicological responses of aquatic insects to evaluate the recovery of a watercourse with a history of over 100 years as a recipient of pulp and paper mill effluents. The recovery of the water quality began in 1985 due to the improved technology, but ecotoxicological effects on biota have still been evident two decades later, as indicated by morphological abnormalities in tracheal gills of caddis larvae. We hypothesized that these abnormalities are related to organic contaminants, such as resin acids, alkylated PAHs and chlorinated organic compounds, released historically from the mills, and more recently via resuspension from the sediment. Samples were collected between 1999 and 2008, and the species composition and morphological abnormalities in the gill tufts were analysed. We tested a Hydropsychidae index (HA) based on species sensitivity scoring as an indicator of improved overall water quality, especially oxygen concentrations. Gill abnormalities were used as morphological biomarkers indicating potential ecotoxicity. The increased HA values revealed improved oxygen levels and associated recovery of benthic macroinvertebrate community structure. However, the incidence of gill abnormalities remained elevated until the year 2008 indicating slow recovery, as 20-year impacts on population health and ecotoxicity was detected in the watercourse polluted by pulp and paper industry. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• The study promotes a standardized framework for the analysis of complex systems. • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Emergy Accounting (EMA) are integrated for synergy. • Differences and similarities between LCA and EMA add value for deeper understanding. • The proposed framework is based on ex-ante LCA, EMA and ex-post LCA procedures. The analysis of complex systems requires an integrated application of different assessment methods also taking into account different scales and points of view to gain a systemic understanding of the investigated case study. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Emergy Accounting (EMA) are both environmental assessment methods, showing many similarities in the way they are performed, especially with respect to the inventory construction and to the interpretation of results. They also show great differences, the main residing in the different perspectives they give. LCA applies a consumer side perspective, and its space and time scales are set at a boundary capable to include all the process phases in terms of location and durability and their direct impacts on the investigated areas. On the other hand, throughout its donor side perspective, EMA expands the boundaries of the system over the entire biosphere space and time scales. Differences and similarities between LCA and EMA may gain added value by their implementation within a procedural framework which exploits the characteristics of the two methods. The present work proposes a methodological procedure based on the sequential and integrated application of LCA and EMA methods, called LEAF (LCA & EMA Applied Framework). The traditional Amalfi paper production is used as a test case study. The procedure stems include: (i) an ex-ante LCA analysis, to identify the hotspots of the investigated case study; (ii) the assessment of the environmental performance of the system through the development of different EMA-based improvement scenarios built around the chosen hotspots; and (iii) an ex-post LCA application built on each scenario results in order to detect the different environmental burdens. The application of LEAF to the traditional Amalfi paper production shows that the use of a more sustainable energy source is an effective solution (among the set of proposed options) to increase the sustainability of the investigated system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monogenea is a Class of ecologically and economically significant platyhelminth parasites of freshwater and marine hosts. Contamination of the environment has been shown to variably affect parasites resulting in alterations at the population and organismal levels. The aim of this study was to perform a meta-analysis of published data to assess similarities among responses of monogeneans to pollution and estimate effect sizes of contaminant exposure on these parasites. Effect size was calculated according to Cohen’s d based on reported mean abundance for monogeneans from individual studies. A total of 57 studies were used in the present study. Each Monogenea–contaminant record represented a single data point in the meta-analysis, and this accounted for a total of 217 useable records. Most studies were concerned with species belong to Gyrodactylidae, Diplozoidae, Ancyrocephalidae and Dactylogyridae. Assessment of the effects of specific pollutants on monogeneans have mostly been restricted to exposure to eutrophication, pulp-mill effluent and metals. Comparison of effect sizes showed strong negative effects for metals and strong positive effects for eutrophication on monogeneans. Other contaminant types had weak effect sizes on monogeneans. Comparison of effect sizes among monogenean families showed that none of the effect sizes calculated were significant but metals and disturbance contaminants showed strong negative and positive effects respectively for Gyrodactylidae. The current comparisons were based on changes in the population structure and infections of monogeneans, however, organ level effects associated with exposure to poor water quality have also been noted. In this instance, exposure has been suggested to result in asymmetry of the attachment organs of some monogeneans. Despite numerous records of impacts of pollution exposure at the population level, understanding of the physiological effects and mechanisms employed by Monogenea to survive and adapt to changes in the environment are yet to be explored. Study of these aspects would enable better understanding of the variation in the trends observed at a population level for monogeneans in relation to the quality of the macroenvironment.

Spatial and temporal variations in raw sewage input via river discharge to a tropical bay (Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) were characterized by considering chemical (sterols, δ 13 C) and biological ( E. coli ) indicators in suspended particles collected during three periods in eight representative rivers that contribute to the bay. Coprostanol concentrations ranged from 0.03 to 206 μg L −1 , averaging 21.9 ± 43.4 μg L −1 , whereas thermotolerant coliforms counts ranged between 0.4 × 10 3 and 1.1 × 10 12  MPN/100 mL. A close relationship between the most contaminated rivers and human density occupation was determined, revealing the extreme lack of basic sanitation networks in the largest metropolitan region on the coast of Brazil. Coprostanol concentrations of 0.060 μg L −1 correspond to the limit established in the national legislation for primary contact water according to microbiological standards (thermotolerant coliforms). Therefore, this criterion based on coprostanol can be used as an additional tool to monitor the quality of the water used for recreation in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Forest resource Metabolism Network model isdeveloped for ecological and economic analysis. • Exploitation index is developed to reveal the weaker sectors in the ecological relations. • A case study of Guangdong province, China isconducted to illustrate the potential benefits. • Scientific Basis are provided to allocate forestresources and stabilize industrial structure. Abstract Integrating forest resources into the socio-economic system correctly and reasonably is of vital importance to tackle the increasingly scarce forest resources. In this paper, forest resource input-output model and forest resource metabolism network model are established to provide new insights into the relationships among the systems, industries and sectors related to forest resources. A promising indicator named exploitation index is developed to reveal the weaker sectors in the ecological relations, which will further help to provide better corrective actions and integrated strategic measures. Guangdong is taken as an example to verify the availability of the model and solve the problem. The results show that the primary manufacturing consumes more direct timber, while advanced manufacturing and the service sector utilize timber indirectly. In addition, Guangdong forest metabolism system shows a negative correlation and the whole network does not achieve the mutualism state, leading to competition relationships between pairwise sectors that should not appear, such as Forestry sector and Papermaking and Paper Products sector. These results provide the corresponding reference for helping the decision makers to allocate forest resources and coordinate ecological and economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yang and Meng (2020) used sub-optimal search keywords and methods to publish a bibliometric paper in Ecological Indicators. There are two questionable parts to the original paper: a filter could be used to retrieve a more accurate set of data and the use of sub-optimal search keywords. There is a big difference between the two results that were searched using search keywords ("carbon footprint", "carbon footprints", and "carbon footprinting") which we suggested and ("carbon footprint") which authors used. Finally, an appropriate method and search keywords were presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As global climate change intensifies, climate protection is important for the sustainable development of human society. In the process of urbanization and industrialization, carbon dioxide emissions are an important factor contributing to global warming. Therefore, modelling projections of future urban land use under low-carbon scenarios are essential for sustainability policy development. Few studies have focused on the impact of carbon emissions on urban land use change in Shanghai, as current research has primarily concentrated on developing methods for urban land use modelling. This paper utilizes a cellular automata (CA) simulation model based on the Random Forest (RF) algorithm to select various spatial variables of carbon emissions as the driving factors that affect urban land use changes. These variables include traffic location factors, economic development factors, electricity consumption, and population density. In this study, remote sensing imagery of urban nighttime lighting is also used to construct a simulation model of land use types in Shanghai. The model is then used to analyze the contribution of carbon emission constraints to urban land use changes. Actual historical land use data from 2013 and 2019 are used for validation, and the prediction model is used to predict land use outcomes under different low-carbon scenarios in 2025. The model is validated by simulating multiple intra-city land use maps for 2019 (kappa = 0.88, OA=92.71 %). The method of out-of-bag error from the random forest is used to evaluate the significance of carbon emission constraints. Using the validated model, the constraints in the CA model are changed to predict the land use simulation results of Shanghai in 2025 under different low-carbon scenarios. In terms of significance, factors such as distance to power plants, distance to major roads, real GDP, and population density can all have a significant impact on changes in urban land use. By selecting the low-carbon scenario with the most appropriate thresholds for each driver, it is possible to obtain the land use simulation results of Shanghai in 2025 under the optimal low-carbon scenario, while ensuring the high accuracy of the RF-CA model and simultaneously reducing the impact of factors on the city’s overall carbon emissions. This paper provides a scientific base for urban planners and scholars to thoughtfully design urban land use while cutting down on carbon emissions. Furthermore, it can aid government agencies in establishing associated planning approaches.

Understanding the spatiotemporal changes in ecosystem service value (ESV) under urbanization, as well as the supply–demand relationship between different regions, can provide a consultation for ecological compensation (EC) standards. Taking Suzhou, a typical city experiencing rapid urbanization in the Yangtze River Delta, as a case study, this paper analyzes the spatiotemporal changes in land use and ESV from 2000 to 2020. To quantify the ecosystem service flow (ESF), we apply the breakpoint formula and field strength model. Additionally, an EC standard is established, taking population, area and GDP into account while specifying compensation. The findings reveal that urbanization has led to a substantial increase in built-up land in Suzhou, accompanied by continuous reductions in farmland and water bodies. As a result, ESV decreased from 153.07 billion CNY to 138.81 billion CNY. Furthermore, the research identifies a spatial pattern where ESV increases with distance from the city center but decreases with distance from the lake center. This pattern suggests a directional flow of ESV from lakes to cities. Notably, ESF mainly occurs in the southwestern and central areas of Suzhou, with areas closer to Taihu Lake experiencing greater ESV transfer. The transfer value ranges from 5.11 and 32.57 billion CNY. There is an imbalance between the supply and demand of ecosystem services. Therefore, specific county-level cities in Suzhou, namely, the Kunshan District and Industrial Park, emerge as contributors of EC and should contribute 71.94 and 80.74 billion CNY, respectively, to other cities. By formulating a novel EC policy for Suzhou, this paper provides a scientifically informed reference for promoting sustainable development.

Promoting the high-quality development of urbanization is a crucial way to achieve sustainable development goals. Water resources are a rigid constraint for such development. However, There is still room for improvement in the research on the spatio-temporal pattern and key driving factors of high-quality urbanization development under the constraint of water resources. Aiming at the problem that the high-quality development of urbanization in the Yellow River Basin (YRB) is facing water resources constraints, this paper discussed the spatial–temporal pattern and key drivers of the high-quality development of urbanization in the YRB under water resource constraints by using the Analytic Hierarchy Process model reformed by entropy technology, multi-objective fuzzy membership function, spatial autocorrelation analysis and obstacle model. The results revealed that, first, we found the High-Quality Urbanization Development Index (UQDI) exhibited steady growth, while both the Water Resources Index (WRI) and the Water Resources Constraint Intensity (WRCI) initially increased and then decreased during the study period. Second, the UQDI displayed a dual-core pattern, with the Shandong Peninsula urban agglomeration and the Central Plains urban agglomeration serving as the cores. WRI exhibited relatively stable spatial distribution, with the southeast region outperforming the northwest. WRCI also demonstrated a relatively stable spatial distribution, resulting in two weak-constraint areas, represented by Shandong and Henan, and a strong-constraint area centered around Ningxia. Third, the UQDI, WRI, and WRCI exhibited spatial interdependence. The spatial interdependence of UQDI and WRI increased, while that of WRCI decreased during the study period. The three indexes also displayed a clear pattern of local clustering in space. Two low-value aggregation areas, namely Shandong and Henan, and a high-value aggregation area located in Ningxia, emerged during the study period. Last, the WRCI was primarily influenced by the fundamental conditions of water resources. The main influencing factors included per capita water resources, mean annual precipitation, total water resources, water resources modulus, and the total amount of foreign investment utilization. In light of the research findings, the paper proposes policy recommendations for promoting high-quality urbanization development in the YRB. This study provides decision-making guidance for countries and regions in arid areas to solve the water resources constraints on the high-quality development of urbanization.

China has abundant straw resources, but challenges in utilization persist. Utilization rates need improvement, and environmental pollution from straw burning remains a significant issue. Accurate and intelligent remote sensing classification of straw types is crucial for enhancing straw utilization and preventing straw burning. This paper proposed a new approach for the intelligent classification of maize straw types, using the DenseNet201 deep transfer learning algorithm based on RGB images captured by Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The sample labels dataset was established for maize straw types, utilizing DenseNet201 deep transfer learning algorithm to pre-train the sample set. This pre-training facilitated model transfer and parameter initialization. Subsequently, the second round of deep transfer learning was performed to construct the final maize straw type remote sensing classification models using DenseNet201 deep transfer learning algorithm. This model and results were subsequently compared with maize straw type classification by the ResNet50 and GoogLeNet deep transfer learning algorithms, as well as maize straw type classification using DenseNet201, ResNet50, and GoogLeNet deep learning algorithms. The results showed that the accuracy of the pre-trained maize straw type deep transfer learning remote sensing classification model surpassed that of the untrained maize straw type deep learning remote sensing classification model, resulting in an enhancement of accuracy by 8.59%, 7.38%, and 1.28%, respectively. The DenseNet201 deep transfer learning model for maize straw types exhibited the highest accuracy with the overall accuracy of 95.57%, and the kappa coefficient of 0.9410. Hence, the DenseNet201 deep transfer learning classification of maize straw types enabled the attainment of intelligent remote sensing recognition of maize straw types. The classification methodology, model, and results presented in this paper can serve as valuable technical references, offering essential information support for agricultural and environmental protection departments actively involved in the comprehensive utilization of straw resources and atmospheric environmental protection efforts.

The phenomenon of inner peripherality is on the rise in Europe. Inner peripheries can be defined as peripheral rural areas experiencing territorial disconnection and progressive marginalization given their distance to urban centres, where the supply of services is concentrated. Assessing and comparing the sustainable development of these areas according to nuanced and integrated social-biophysical perspectives is crucial to highlight their genuine long-term sustainability potential and critical aspects. Moreover, it is essential to monitor that the socio-economic development of the latter goes hand in hand with territorial stewardship and an appropriate management of their extensive natural endowments. To achieve these objectives, this paper illustrates an innovative methodology to design a multi-criteria evaluation framework named PAISDA (Peripheral Areas Integrated Sustainable Development Assessment). The framework, based on the theoretical background of ecological economics, makes it possible to monitor the sustainable development of inner and marginalized areas according to a “post-growth” approach. It also allows a shift towards a strong sustainability perspective by assessing the phenomenon in an integrated way, which combines social and biophysical dimensions. This can help to design more robust and better targeted policies for these areas, thereby improving local strategic planning. The assessment process is as follows: first, the values of lower order components are computed through a reflective measurement model, then aggregated to form the values of higher order components, which are used as criteria in the last phase of multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). The choice of normalization and aggregation methods responds to methodological coherence. The paper describes a step-by-step procedure for applying the PAISDA framework in any European country, providing an illustrative example of its implementation in relation to Italian inner areas.

Ecosystem services (ES) assessment is crucial in ecology, with numerous studies seeking to evaluate them. Despite the abundance of methods and indicators, standardization is lacking, hindering comparability and progress in ES understanding and monitoring. This paper reviews indicators used in scientific literature to evaluate mountain ES and then examined whether the most used indicators are also the best. Using ISI Web of Knowledge we searched papers published between 2015 and 2020 containing “ecosystem services” AND “mountains” and we selected 400 papers effectively applying at least one indicator to evaluate ES. For each article, we extracted the following information: type of ES evaluated; indicator(s) used; input data used; type of value-domain (ecological, economic or social); scale of analysis; country; mapping; and management suggestions. From the literature, we extracted a list of 130 most frequently used indicators. The results indicated that regulating services were the most frequently assessed ES, followed by provisioning, cultural, and lastly supporting. The scale of analysis was mainly regional (51%) and local (40%), while studies at national scale were less frequent (9%) and only 2 studies were at global scale. Mountain areas most studied were in Europe (50%) and Asia (31%). Ecological value-domain was the most frequent used (55%), followed by social (26%) and economic (18%). 84% of studies considered only one dimension of the value and few studies combined multiple value-domains (15%). Almost half of studies mapped ES and around one third provided management suggestions. We examined the quality of indicators based on six criteria evaluated by experts in the field: significance, simplicity, cost, replicability, ease of interpretation and policy relevance. Indicators used exhibit significant diversity, and there is no clarity in nomenclature. There are cases where the indicators used represent inadequately the ecological parameters to be measured. Although many indicators score high in some of the properties evaluated, only 13 indicators perform well in all properties. These indicators have a universal value both in terms of semantics, but also in terms of properties and should be promoted for standardization among ES assessments. We envisage the necessity to condense the array of indicators commonly used down to a small set of standardized high-quality metrics.

Jianghan Plain is an important grain-producing area in China, and the transformation of the natural environment by the long-term polder activities of the people in this area has created a characteristic polder landscape. After 2000, urbanization has led to the destruction of ecosystems in these polder landscapes, especially in sensitive areas at the urban–rural interface. ESP can help mitigate this threat by systematically identifying and connecting ecologically significant areas to enhance ecosystem stability and sustainability. In this paper, taking Dongxihu Polder as an example, we apply multi-source remote sensing data to develop LER and LUC models. Combining these with MCR model, we construct an ESP for Dongxihu Polder. The study shows that (1) the growth of LER and LUC in Dongxihu Polder is characterized by “strong dynamics, high complexity and weak protection”, which is closely related to the urban expansion of the urban–rural boundary area; (2) Watersheds, woodlands, and farmlands play an important role in controlling LERs and LUCs, so we identified 33 ecologically important source areas that are mainly concentrated in these regions; (3) In this paper, 46 ecological strategic nodes and 16 ecological corridors were extracted to construct the Dongxihu Polder ESP of “one ring, five axes, multiple points and multiple chains”, and suggested specific optimization strategies. The study provides feasible ecological management policy recommendations for the protection as well as sustainable development of Dongxihu Polder.

The adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by the United Nations General Assembly, encompassing 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), established a universal framework for addressing global challenges. Within the European Union (EU), the commitment to these goals has prompted the integration of the SDGs into a strategic framework for sustainable and inclusive growth. Recognizing the need for localized and detailed monitoring to capture the nuanced progress and challenges across Europe’s diverse regions, this paper proposes a comprehensive set of regional indicators specifically designed for the European context. Through a systematic review of existing SDG monitoring frameworks at different territorial levels and an extensive methodological process, the paper identifies 116 indicators that address 75 SDG targets. This tailored set is derived from a combination of national, regional, and supranational sources. The paper discusses the critical balance between standardization for comparability and customization to accommodate unique regional characteristics. The proposed indicator set is evaluated for its capacity to reflect the holistic vision of the SDGs while allowing for effective regional benchmarking. The research emphasizes the need for robust regional data infrastructure, the importance of aligning policies with broader sustainability objectives, and the dynamic nature of indicators that can adapt to societal changes such as demographic shifts. Finally, the paper highlights the significance of a pragmatic and adaptive regional approach to SDG monitoring. The proposed indicator set is a strategic tool for policymakers, stakeholders, and practitioners, guiding Europe’s regions towards a sustainable future and contributing to the global effort to achieve the SDGs by 2030.

In Northeast (NE) China, the largest commodity grain base and natural forest area in China, both agricultural production and ecological protection require attention. In recent years, land degradation in NE China has increased, seriously affecting the production-ecology synergy. In this paper, four key ecosystem services (ESs) in NE China are quantified: provisioning, water conservation (WC), soil conservation (SC) and sand fixation (SF), and the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics and trade-offs and synergies (T&S) of ESs are analyzed. The driving factors of provisioning services and the characteristics of T&S are considered, and the county zoning scheme and the corresponding production-ecological function synergistic optimization paths are proposed. The results show that (1) the provisioning, WC and SF services in NE China have slightly increased in the past 20 years, and the provisioning in the Greater-Khingan-Mountains-Region (GKMR) and Lesser-Khingan-Mountains-Region (LKMR), the WC in the LKMR, and the SF in the Liao-River-Plain (LRP) have more obviously increased. The SC service has slightly decreased, especially in the Changbai-Mountains-Region (CBMR). (2) The provisioning service in NE China mainly shows a synergistic relationship with WC and SF, accounting for 79.1 % and 62.9 % of the area, respectively, and a trade-off relationship with SC, accounting for 52.54 % of the area. (3) Human activities (HA) are the dominant driving factor of the provisioning service change in NE China, with an impact degree of 62.65 %. The LKMR is an exception, as climate change (CC) dominates. The LRP, Songnen-Plain (SNP) and GKMR have high degrees of HA. (4) The number of synergistic optimized (SO), light optimized (LO) and trade-off limited (TL) counties accounted for 19.0 %, 61.7 % and 19.3 %, respectively. Among them, the SO type counties should prioritize improving provision and grain production capacity, the LO type counties should protect basic farmland and decrease trade-offs between ESs, and the TL type counties should improve ecological functions and strengthen ecological protection and restoration. This paper clarifies the main contradictions of ESs in NE China and provides an important scientific basis for ecological protection and restoration, which is important for ensuring food and ecological security and realizing the ecological and efficient sustainable utilization of black soil.

Maintaining and restoring ecological connectivity (EC) are important measures of mitigating habitat isolation caused by urbanization. Considering the prominent contradiction of land use in highly urbanized areas, the EC protection measures proposed in the previous studies, such as expanding the ecological sources and widening the ecological corridors, are unrealistic. By using the stepping-stone and complex network theories, this paper simulated the ecological network (EN), evaluated the centrality of each ecological source and stepping-stone, and analysed the network robustness under different damage scenarios, then identified the optimal strategy and key patches for EC maintaining. Meanwhile, this paper evaluated whether the key patches are protected by China’s new policies, which are, Ecological Protection Red Line (EPRL) and the Three Lines One Permit (TLOP). The results were as follows: (1) The EN is composed of 53 ecological sources and 291 stepping-stones, with 591 links between them. (2) The network stability can be optimally maintained by prioritizing the protection of stepping-stones with high centrality. (3) The 53 ecological sources and 51 stepping-stones with the highest centrality can ensure the stable operation of the EN, that is, they are key patches for EC maintaining. (4) Compared with EPRL, the protection rate for ecological sources and stepping-stones are significantly improved by TLOP; however, stepping-stones with high centrality require stronger protection. This study enriched the research cases of complex network theory applied in landscape ecology, and provided references for the improvement of policies in the future.

Rivers originating from the Himalayas play a crucial role as primary water sources for a significant proportion of the population in Asia downstream. This paper presents a comprehensive synthesis of hydrogeochemical data, incorporating major ions and trace elements from 153 papers spanning 2000 to 2023, with a detailed analysis of 20 papers specific to Nepal Himalayan rivers. To bridge the research gap due to sparse data, we aimed to enhance inclusivity by amalgamating both seasonal and one-time datasets, computing mean values for singular instances, and employing grand means for multiple seasonal data points. Our findings highlight varied research attention across different river basins, with the eastern Koshi Basin receiving extensive attention, while the middle Gandaki and Bagmati Basins garner moderate attention, and data scarcity observed in the western Karnali Basin. Predominant ionic composition, notably Ca2+ and HCO3–, reflect lithological influences, primarily driven by rock weathering. Although anthropogenic impacts remain minimal in most basins, certain lowland areas with higher population densities exhibit increasing significance. Trace element contamination, notably Cd, Cu, Sr, and Zn, poses ongoing threats, both from natural and anthropogenic sources. Water quality assessments conducted for agricultural and drinking suitability indicated good status, except in the densely polluted urban Bagmati stem. Health and ecological risks are low, as determined by pollution indices such as Pi, NPI, HI, and CI. The Bagmati River's middle segment, with high population density and moderate agricultural activity, shows pronounced anthropogenic footprints, while downstream areas exhibited greater impacts. Additionally, this article proposes the potential use of a Water Quality Index tool to comprehensively assess water quality across all parameters in Himalayan water bodies, providing a roadmap for future environmental conservation in the Himalayas. This pioneering review represents a significant effort to understand Himalayan rivers geochemistry on a large geographical scale and emphasizes the need for integrated observation and consideration of river water quality across the entire Himalayan region, from high mountains to lowlands.

Unconventional water serves as a bridge to water sustainability. However, many developing nations still have a long way to go in terms of unconventional water utilization. Different regional characteristics lead to different consumption capacities for unconventional water. Consequently, more unconventional water use (UWU) may not necessarily be positive for alleviating water poverty. However, there is a significant research gap in this field. This paper aims to answer three key questions: “Whether UWU consistently alleviates water poverty?” “Is this effect spatially heterogeneous?” and “What role do economic factors play in addressing water poverty?” For that, this paper focused on 30 provinces in China, with the sample period spanning from 2006 to 2021. To identify the mechanisms through which UWU alleviates water poverty, this paper employed a panel fixed-effects model using the Water Poverty Index (WPI) as the dependent variable and the square of UWU amount as an independent variable. The results indicate a non-linear impact of UWU on WPI, with the significance of impact influenced by GDP per capita (PGDP). Furthermore, threshold regressions were conducted with PGDP as the threshold variable. The results revealed a double-threshold effect of PGDP in the impact of UWU on WPI, displaying “U” or inverted “U” shape as PGDP develops: When PGDP is less than or equal to RMB 13,574, UWU demonstrates a negative effect on WPI; when PGDP ranges from RMB 13,574 to RMB 53,653, the effect turns positive; however, when PGDP exceeds RMB 53,653, the effect turns back to negative. The findings confirm that more UWU is not always better. Sustainable utilization plans of water resources must be tailored to local conditions, especially considering the unique characteristics of the regional economy.

Increasing countries are articulating ambitious goals of carbon neutrality. However, large inequalities in regional emissions within a country may hinder progress toward a carbon–neutral future, as the unequal distribution of reduction responsibilities among regions could impair just transition and exacerbate uneven development, which necessitates an in-depth understanding of the mechanism of multi-scale carbon inequalities within country, region, and city. Yet, the evolution of carbon inequalities within urban agglomerations and the differences between adjacent or distant urban agglomerations have not been well understood, especially in countries undergoing rapid urbanization. Using the data of 89 cities in China’s Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) during 2006–2021, this paper quantifies carbon emissions inequality (CEI) at different scales in a systematic regional-urban agglomeration-city hierarchical structure. Then, under the integrated mean logarithmic deviation-logarithmic mean Divisia index (MLD-LMDI) decomposition framework, multi-scale CEIs are perfectly decomposed into six interrelated drivers, i.e., industrial emission structure, energy emission intensity, industrial energy mix, energy intensity, industrial structure, and economic development. The results show that economic development, energy intensity, and industrial energy mix disparities are the main determinants accounting for CEIs at different scales. The decreasing CEI in YREB is mainly due to the changes in industrial structure and economic development, while the energy intensity effect partially hinders the mitigation of CEI. In the upper reaches of the YREB, the energy intensity effect accounts for over 94% growth of CEI during 2006–2021, while the decline in CEIs in middle and lower reaches is primarily caused by the effects of industrial energy mix and industrial structure, respectively. Further spatial decomposition analysis reveals more refined city-level heterogeneous effects and emphasizes the prioritized emission reduction direction for each city. This paper offers implications for reducing carbon inequality and insights into coordinated carbon emissions mitigation at the regional level for a carbon–neutral future.

• A practical and feasible protection strategy for EC maintaining in highly urbanized areas was proposed. • Key patches for EC maintaining were identified by using stepping stone and complex network theories. • The protection rate for key patches by the new policies were assessed. Maintaining and restoring ecological connectivity (EC) are important measures of mitigating habitat isolation caused by urbanization. Considering the prominent contradiction of land use in highly urbanized areas, the EC protection measures proposed in the previous studies, such as expanding the ecological sources and widening the ecological corridors, are unrealistic. By using the stepping-stone and complex network theories, this paper simulated the ecological network (EN), evaluated the centrality of each ecological source and stepping-stone, and analysed the network robustness under different damage scenarios, then identified the optimal strategy and key patches for EC maintaining. Meanwhile, this paper evaluated whether the key patches are protected by China's new policies, which are, Ecological Protection Red Line (EPRL) and the Three Lines One Permit (TLOP). The results were as follows: (1) The EN is composed of 53 ecological sources and 291 stepping-stones, with 591 links between them. (2) The network stability can be optimally maintained by prioritizing the protection of stepping-stones with high centrality. (3) The 53 ecological sources and 51 stepping-stones with the highest centrality can ensure the stable operation of the EN, that is, they are key patches for EC maintaining. (4) Compared with EPRL, the protection rate for ecological sources and stepping-stones are significantly improved by TLOP; however, stepping-stones with high centrality require stronger protection. This study enriched the research cases of complex network theory applied in landscape ecology, and provided references for the improvement of policies in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ecosystem services are quantified at large scales and long time series in NE China. • The trade-offs and synergies among ecosystem services are characterized. • Human activities are the dominant driving factors of provisioning services. • Synergistic optimization paths of production-ecological functions are proposed. In Northeast (NE) China, the largest commodity grain base and natural forest area in China, both agricultural production and ecological protection require attention. In recent years, land degradation in NE China has increased, seriously affecting the production-ecology synergy. In this paper, four key ecosystem services (ESs) in NE China are quantified: provisioning, water conservation (WC), soil conservation (SC) and sand fixation (SF), and the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics and trade-offs and synergies (T&S) of ESs are analyzed. The driving factors of provisioning services and the characteristics of T&S are considered, and the county zoning scheme and the corresponding production-ecological function synergistic optimization paths are proposed. The results show that (1) the provisioning, WC and SF services in NE China have slightly increased in the past 20 years, and the provisioning in the Greater-Khingan-Mountains-Region (GKMR) and Lesser-Khingan-Mountains-Region (LKMR), the WC in the LKMR, and the SF in the Liao-River-Plain (LRP) have more obviously increased. The SC service has slightly decreased, especially in the Changbai-Mountains-Region (CBMR). (2) The provisioning service in NE China mainly shows a synergistic relationship with WC and SF, accounting for 79.1 % and 62.9 % of the area, respectively, and a trade-off relationship with SC, accounting for 52.54 % of the area. (3) Human activities (HA) are the dominant driving factor of the provisioning service change in NE China, with an impact degree of 62.65 %. The LKMR is an exception, as climate change (CC) dominates. The LRP, Songnen-Plain (SNP) and GKMR have high degrees of HA. (4) The number of synergistic optimized (SO), light optimized (LO) and trade-off limited (TL) counties accounted for 19.0 %, 61.7 % and 19.3 %, respectively. Among them, the SO type counties should prioritize improving provision and grain production capacity, the LO type counties should protect basic farmland and decrease trade-offs between ESs, and the TL type counties should improve ecological functions and strengthen ecological protection and restoration. This paper clarifies the main contradictions of ESs in NE China and provides an important scientific basis for ecological protection and restoration, which is important for ensuring food and ecological security and realizing the ecological and efficient sustainable utilization of black soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land disputes pose significant challenges to social stability and development. In this paper, land dispute intensity (LDI) is measured at the provincial level in China from 2009 to 2018 and its spatiotemporal evolution characteristics and influencing factors are explored. The ordinary least squares(OLS), spatial durbin model (SDM), geodetector model, and panel threshold model are used to explore the spatial spillover effects of LDI and its potential non-linear relationship with socio-economic factors. The results reveal that LDI is spatially distributed in a decentralized form, with local areas showing the structural characteristics of “single core, multiple clusters”. The LDI exhibits a significant positive spatial autocorrelation and follows a “logarithmic” upward trend over time. The urbanization rate (UR), social security expenditures (SSE), and the number of land and resources institutions (NLRI) are important driving forces affecting LDI. The SSE and NLRI have a single threshold effect on the LDI, with a “V” shaped weakening trend, and the UR is an important factor causing nonlinear effects. Interestingly, the effect shifts from inhibition to stimulation when the SSE and NLRI cross the corresponding threshold value. This paper can provide new insights into the governance of land disputes.

An integrated water sustainability assessment is conducive to realizing the optimal allocation and efficient water utilization, and alleviating the water crisis. Existing research mainly appraises water quantity and water quality as unidimensional or in combination, without considering the water benefit, and few studies have assessed the regional water sustainability based on an integrated evaluation multidimensionally. Therefore, this paper innovatively introduces water benefit to construct a three-dimensional quantity-quality-benefit model (QQBM) to evaluate water sustainability in line with the water footprint (WF) theory and water resources balance sheet (WRBS). The impact of the coupled coordination relationship among water quantity, water quality, and water benefit on the water sustainability evaluation is further analyzed by introducing the coupled coordination degree model (CCDM). This paper takes the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) as an example and makes a spatio-temporal analysis of the water sustainability in its 11 provincial capitals during 2010-2021 from a single dimension and a three-dimensional perspective, respectively. The results found that: (1) From a single dimension, the water sustainability in the 11 provincial capitals in the YREB during 2010-2021 is at a medium level, with better water benefit sustainability, moderate water quantity sustainability, and horrendous water quality sustainability. Among them, the water sustainability is the best in Guiyang and Hangzhou, while the worst in Shanghai. (2) From a three-dimensional perspective, the water sustainability in the 11 provincial capitals from 2010 to 2021 is horrific. Among them, the water sustainability is the best in Kunming, Changsha, Nanjing and Shanghai, while the worst in Wuhan and Hefei. (3) The degree of coupling coordination between water quantity, water quality and water benefit significantly influence the water sustainability in the 11 provincial capitals of the YREB. The three-dimensional assessment model QQBM constructed in this study is more comprehensive and objective than the single perspective assessment. The findings in this paper can help other regions to conduct similar water sustainability assessments and inform policy recommendations.

The invasion of exotic ant species in China presents significant challenges to ecosystems, agriculture, and the economy. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of China's ongoing battle with exotic ants, examining the factors contributing to their introduction and establishment. It explores the responses implemented by the decision makers, including capacity building, establishment of research institutions, and legislative measures. Limitations and gaps in the current strategies are identified, highlighting the need for regional collaboration, increased awareness, and strengthened early detection and response systems. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of conducting research to understand various exotic ant species' ecological and economic impacts, facilitating the development of targeted and effective management approaches. By adopting a comprehensive and coordinated approach, China can mitigate the impacts of ant invasions and safeguard its biodiversity, agriculture, and economy. This analysis underscores the significance of collective efforts in addressing the ongoing battle with exotic ants and preserving the well-being of ecosystems, economies, and the society.

The balance between the supply and demand of ecosystem services (ESSD) is important for sustainable regional development. The hilly regions of south China have rich natural resources and are rapidly being urbanized, which significantly impacts sustainable development in the region. Therefore, how to analyze ESSD from the perspective of social ecology is imperative. Ganzhou region, which is a typical hilly region in southern China, as an example, this paper creatively integrated ESSD into the social-ecological system (SES) framework, analyzed the spatial and temporal changes of ESSD in 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2020, and constructed a system of indicators from the SES, and analyzed the driving factors of ESSD, so as to provide a reference for balancing ESSD. Based on the classical SES framework proposed by Ostrom, this study first analyses the social-ecological system profile of the Ganzhou region at the macro-scale and constructs an SES indicator system. The innovation of combining the SES framework and ecosystem services lies in integrating the social and ecosystem perspectives and merging these two concepts to understand better and manage the relationship between humans and the natural environment. It provides a comprehensive analytical approach and decision support tool for achieving sustainable development. Our results demonstrate that: (1) From 2005 to 2020, ecosystem services in the study area were highly valued, lower areas had homogeneous distribution characteristics, total demand displayed spatial differentiation, there were high-value areas in the midwest, and low-value areas were concentrated in the region’s boundary. (2) There are obvious supply and demand deficits in the southeast and east of the study area, while supply–demand is equal in the north and supply exceeds demand in other regions. From 2005 to 2020, the overall coupling coordination degree of ESSD in the study area was lower than 0.5, indicating a mild to moderate imbalance. (3) The supply of ecosystem services (ESS) was primarily driven by carbon storage, habitat quality, and water yield, while the demand was primarily driven by forest and grassland areas. Factors related to the ecosystem, resource unit, resource system, social system, governance system, and actor all have experienced two-factor interactions, which can explain up to 99% of ESSD. Based on the SES framework, this paper studies the relationship between ESSD in typical areas of the southern hills to provide a reference for research on ESSD in relevant areas and provide a scientific basis for the Chinese government to evaluate ecological protections and improve compensation policies, which is important for ensuring China's ecological security.

Urban green spaces have long been cherished as the “lungs of the city”, it can not only improve air quality and enhance residents' health. The impact of urban green spaces on air pollution and residents' health has attracted great attention. In this paper, we select 31 provinces in China as research samples and use ArcGIS software to draw spatial distribution maps of urban green spaces, air pollution, and residents' health in China, characterizing their spatiotemporal changes in order to explore whether there is a correlation among the three. On this basis, this paper utilizes panel data of Chinese provincial-level from 2010 to 2020 and conducts empirical tests through a two-way fixed effect model and a threshold regression model. The research findings are as follows: (1) Urban green spaces not only bring environmental benefits, but also health benefits, and the health benefits are greater than the environmental benefits. (2) There is a health risk of air pollution in northern China, and the health benefits of urban green spaces are not significant. Conversely, there is no health risk of air pollution in southern China, and the health benefits of urban green spaces are significant. (3) Although environmental regulations can enhance the health benefits of urban green spaces, the role of environmental regulations in enhancing the health benefits of urban green spaces may be further weakened as the economy develops.

Adopting ecological agricultural technologies (EATs) is an effective way to guarantee food security and protect the environment. With the advancement of the digital village strategy, the continuous integration of the digital economy with the rural economy has gradually become an emerging driving force for sustainable agriculture. However, few studies have examined the impact of farmers’ participation in the digital economy in different links of the agricultural industry chain on EATs adoption from a micro perspective. Using data from 2,825 grain farmers from the 2020 China Rural Revitalization Survey, this paper applies the treatment effect model and the mediating effect model to empirically analyze the impact and mechanism of participation in the digital economy on farmers’ EATs adoption from an ecological effect perspective. This paper characterizes farmers’ participation in the digital economy in terms of digital production, digital sales, and digital finance. The results show that participation in the digital economy significantly promotes farmers’ EATs adoption. The sub-dimensional test found that participation in digital production, digital sales, and digital finance significantly promotes farmers’ EATs adoption. The above findings remain robust after a series of robustness tests, such as changing the estimation method and replacing the dependent variable. Mechanism analysis shows that participation in the digital economy, especially digital sales and digital finance, could promote farmers’ EATs adoption by increasing the demand for agricultural machinery services, improving information availability, and enhancing food safety cognition; participation in the digital production could promote farmers’ EATs adoption by increasing the demand for agricultural machinery services. Results of heterogeneity analysis show that the promotion effect of participation in the digital economy on EATs adoption is more substantial among farmers with higher digital literacy and larger cultivated land scales. The findings of this paper provide insights for China and other countries to effectively use digital technology to promote sustainable agriculture under the pressure of achieving sustainable development goals.

Grassland ecological restoration is an important cornerstone to maintain the sustainable development of grassland ecosystem. One of the goals of financial support for grassland ecological protection and restoration is whether the ecological benefits of grassland are fully realized, and grassland vegetation coverage is the main index to measure the ecological benefits. This paper aims to analyze whether the financial support for grassland ecological protection and restoration has improved the vegetation coverage of grassland. and then verify whether there is room for improvement in the fiscal effect of grassland ecological protection and restoration? Based on the panel data of 54 animal husbandry and semi-agricultural and semi-animal husbandry counties in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of China, this paper adopts a bidirectional fixed effect model and cross-fixed effect model to introduce natural factors affecting grassland vegetation coverage into the model and systematically examines the financial effects of ecological benefits of financial support for grassland ecological protection and restoration. The main findings are as follows: (1) there is a nonlinear relationship between financial support for grassland ecological protection and restoration and grassland vegetation coverage when natural factors are taken into account in the model. (2) different fiscal expenditure structure has a heterogeneous response to the impact of grassland ecological protection and restoration on ecological benefits. (3) the degree of fiscal decentralization and the relative performance of the government have a significant positive moderating effect on the ecological benefits of fiscal support for grassland ecological protection and restoration.

As China seeks to transition to a high-quality economic development model, improving its capital allocation efficiency serves as a means to revitalize the capital stock and facilitate a shift from an investment-driven growth approach to an innovation-driven one. By exploring the relationship between air pollution and capital allocation efficiency, new avenues for promoting high-quality economic development can be identified. This paper develops a theoretical analysis framework that posits the mechanisms by which air pollution affect capital allocation efficiency through innovation activities and human capital channels. Based on the data from prefecture-level cities in China from 2003 to 2019, this paper introduces an innovative method to evaluate capital allocation efficiency. Further, using a panel two-way fixed-effects model to examine the impact of air pollution on capital allocation efficiency and its mechanisms. The findings show that ① the intensification of air pollution reduces capital allocation efficiency and the above findings pass the robustness tests. ② The results of heterogeneity analysis show that there is significant heterogeneity in the effect of air pollution on capital allocation efficiency. The intensification of the air pollution significantly inhibits capital allocation efficiency in inland areas, small and medium-scale cities, after 2013, and in areas with high foreign economic dependence. ③ The results of mechanism analysis shows that the intensification of the air pollution will inhibit capital allocation efficiency by suppressing innovation activities and human capital accumulation channels.

The global system of nature reserves is facing adjustment and restructuring towards the goal of harmonizing ecological conservation with regional development. We use multiple ecoregion data at both global and national scales as ecological indicators to explore the gap areas of China's nature reserves, which can help to build a global network of nature reserve systems and lay a spatial foundation for global biodiversity conservation. This paper comprehensively resorts to the ideas and modeling approaches involved in gap analysis, conservation prioritization analysis and eco-region planning. After identifying in both global and national scales the potential areas with gaps in national nature reserves in China, it proposes conservation priority areas and optimization strategies. The study finds that in a global extent, the areas with the gaps in China cover a large area and are distributed widely, mostly on the both sides of the Tengchong-Heihe Line. The conservation priority areas are concentrated in mid-subtropical humid areas, plateau subtropical sub-humid areas and semi-arid areas, and plateau temperate humid/sub-humid areas. These areas are usually not sufficiently protected due to their diversified landforms, complex ecosystems and lack of protection measures. The results have verified and identified the areas with gaps in the building of Chinese national nature reserve system. They may make a unique and important contribution to global ecological conservation efforts in terms of protected area system optimization and conservation network building. Synopsis: This paper analyses the conservation gaps in China's national nature reserves and proposes conservation priority areas for optimising the layout of the nature reserve network.

To realize the coordinated development of urbanization and ecological environment is a research hotspot in recent years. There is a very complicated relationship between them. Understanding their relationship is key to realize their coordinated development. In this paper, the long-term dynamic balance behavior between urbanization and ecological environment was studied by means of long-term equilibrium model and error correction model (ECM) based on the data of Shandong Province. In order to comprehensively reflect urbanization and ecological environment, this paper employed comprehensive evaluation model to construct comprehensive index of urbanization and ecological environment respectively, and used coupling coordination degree (CDE) and relative development degree model (RDE) to study the dynamic changes of the two. The results showed that: (1) The relationship between urbanization and ecological environment in Shandong Province is becoming more and more harmonious, and the coupling coordination type between them has gradually developed from extremely uncoupling (EUC) type to highly coupling (HC) type; (2) In the long run, there is a long-term equilibrium relationship between urbanization and ecological environment in Shandong Province, and this equilibrium can be achieved through short-term dynamic adjustment. Therefore, a correct understanding of the short-term and long-term development laws between them can provide the corresponding theoretical basis for policy makers, and shorten the time for urbanization and ecological environment to reach an equilibrium state.

Logistics performance has a significant impact on the natural environment. The paper analyses it from a broad macro perspective of European Union countries. Also, it proposes the methodology of creation and possibilities of use of the Green Logistics Performance Index (GLPI) to deepen the analyses and compare countries. The paper's primary goal is to introduce and justify the implementation of the GLPI. First, a literature review is provided, covering the concept of green logistics and environmental problems. Next, the Logistics Performance Index (LPI) and Environmental Performance Index (EPI) are described in detail as the components of GLPI, and the methodology of GLPI creation is presented. Finally, the GLPI is calculated for all European Union countries in 2018 (the latest data) and 2010 to compare the differences and see the progress or regress. This part of the paper gives an overview of GLPI as a benchmarking tool, pointing out the positives and negatives, and transferring the best environmental practices from leading counties to others. In the end, the benefits of GLPI are described together with its utility suggestions.

Land use transition (LUT) impacts regional land use and the ecological environment. To reveal LUT and its ecological effects in karst mountain areas (KMA) of Southwest China, this paper first constructs a correlation model between LUT and ecological restoration in the region and carries out an example verification in the typical KMA, the Huajiang Canyon. The study demonstrates that: (1) LUT has occurred in KMA of Southwest China, mainly, the area of sloping cropland has decreased, and the forest land has increased. Land use patterns have shifted from traditional farming to modernized economic and fruit forestry; (2) The driving forces of LUT in KMA of Southwest China can be summarized into three factors: socio-economic, natural, and policy, among which natural factors are the basic conditions of LUT, socio-economic factors play a decisive role in the process of LUT, and policy factors provide policy guarantee for LUT; (3) LUT in KMA of Southwest China has curbed land degradation, promoted ecosystem restoration, and made a certain contribution making China greener, which is conducive to achieving the goal of sustainable development. This paper explores the characteristics of LUT and its driving forces in KMA of Southwest China from the coupling analysis of LUT and ecosystem, reveals the effects of LUT in KMA of Southwest China, and provides some theoretical references for the balance between high-quality development and ecological protection in KMA of Southwest China from the perspective of LUT.

Assessing the risk of cropland abandonment in mountainous area is essential for ensuring food security. However, the current evaluation indicator system is incomplete, and the reliability analysis of the results is lacking. This paper proposes a spatially comprehensive assessment method of cropland abandonment risk based on AHP and PCA using multi-source data of land use, abandoned cropland, administrative area, population density, GDP, cropland soil information, and climate, and applies the method to Yunnan Province in China. Firstly, 14 indicators were selected from four aspects, including social factors, farming conditions, cropland quality, and climate factors, to construct a three-layer indicator system of “target-criteria-indicator”. Fuzzy membership was used to calculate the indicator layer, and then the PCA method was applied to calculate the first principal component for the criterion layer. Finally, the AHP method was used to calculate the weighted superposition of the criterion layer. The proposed method showed good reliability in the study areas. In Yunnan Province, 33.03% of cropland is at high risk of abandonment, 37.52% is at medium risk, and 29.45% is at low risk. The high risk area is mainly distributed in the Lancang River Basin and Honghe River Basin. Social factors were found to play the greatest role in the risk of cropland abandonment in Yunnan Province. Factors such as low population density, large shape coefficient of cropland, and low annual average precipitation were identified as the main drivers of cropland abandonment in this region. The research results of this paper can provide decision-making reference for preventing and controlling cropland abandonment in mountainous areas.

[Display omitted] • Integrated dataset of major ions and trace elements for Nepal Himalayan rivers basin. • Rock weathering is the primary factor controlling ion concentrations. • Anthropogenic impacts become significant in densely populated lowland basins. • Water in most rivers is safe for drinking, except for densely polluted urban Bagmati. • A uniform and comparable Himalayan Water Quality Index is proposed. Rivers originating from the Himalayas play a crucial role as primary water sources for a significant proportion of the population in Asia downstream. This paper presents a comprehensive synthesis of hydrogeochemical data, incorporating major ions and trace elements from 153 papers spanning 2000 to 2023, with a detailed analysis of 20 papers specific to Nepal Himalayan rivers. To bridge the research gap due to sparse data, we aimed to enhance inclusivity by amalgamating both seasonal and one-time datasets, computing mean values for singular instances, and employing grand means for multiple seasonal data points. Our findings highlight varied research attention across different river basins, with the eastern Koshi Basin receiving extensive attention, while the middle Gandaki and Bagmati Basins garner moderate attention, and data scarcity observed in the western Karnali Basin. Predominant ionic composition, notably Ca2+ and HCO 3 –, reflect lithological influences, primarily driven by rock weathering. Although anthropogenic impacts remain minimal in most basins, certain lowland areas with higher population densities exhibit increasing significance. Trace element contamination, notably Cd, Cu, Sr, and Zn, poses ongoing threats, both from natural and anthropogenic sources. Water quality assessments conducted for agricultural and drinking suitability indicated good status, except in the densely polluted urban Bagmati stem. Health and ecological risks are low, as determined by pollution indices such as Pi, NPI, HI, and CI. The Bagmati River's middle segment, with high population density and moderate agricultural activity, shows pronounced anthropogenic footprints, while downstream areas exhibited greater impacts. Additionally, this article proposes the potential use of a Water Quality Index tool to comprehensively assess water quality across all parameters in Himalayan water bodies, providing a roadmap for future environmental conservation in the Himalayas. This pioneering review represents a significant effort to understand Himalayan rivers geochemistry on a large geographical scale and emphasizes the need for integrated observation and consideration of river water quality across the entire Himalayan region, from high mountains to lowlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Most of China still faces notable water poverty with obvious spatial variations. • Unconventional water use does not always have a positive impact on water poverty. • The impact shows an inverted U-shaped tendency as per capita GDP increases. • Sustainable water management plans should be tailored to local economy. Unconventional water serves as a bridge to water sustainability. However, many developing nations still have a long way to go in terms of unconventional water utilization. Different regional characteristics lead to different consumption capacities for unconventional water. Consequently, more unconventional water use (UWU) may not necessarily be positive for alleviating water poverty. However, there is a significant research gap in this field. This paper aims to answer three key questions: "Whether UWU consistently alleviates water poverty?" "Is this effect spatially heterogeneous?" and "What role do economic factors play in addressing water poverty?" For that, this paper focused on 30 provinces in China, with the sample period spanning from 2006 to 2021. To identify the mechanisms through which UWU alleviates water poverty, this paper employed a panel fixed-effects model using the Water Poverty Index (WPI) as the dependent variable and the square of UWU amount as an independent variable. The results indicate a non-linear impact of UWU on WPI, with the significance of impact influenced by GDP per capita (PGDP). Furthermore, threshold regressions were conducted with PGDP as the threshold variable. The results revealed a double-threshold effect of PGDP in the impact of UWU on WPI, displaying "U" or inverted "U" shape as PGDP develops: When PGDP is less than or equal to RMB 13,574, UWU demonstrates a negative effect on WPI; when PGDP ranges from RMB 13,574 to RMB 53,653, the effect turns positive; however, when PGDP exceeds RMB 53,653, the effect turns back to negative. The findings confirm that more UWU is not always better. Sustainable utilization plans of water resources must be tailored to local conditions, especially considering the unique characteristics of the regional economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Measure carbon emission inequalities (CEIs) of urban agglomerations under rapid urbanization. • Identify the key factors determining CEIs within the three urban agglomerations. • Account for the differences between adjacent or distant urban agglomerations. • The declining CEI is mainly due to changes in industrial structure and economic development. • CEI in the upper reaches of the YREB increases due to the changes in energy intensity. Increasing countries are articulating ambitious goals of carbon neutrality. However, large inequalities in regional emissions within a country may hinder progress toward a carbon–neutral future, as the unequal distribution of reduction responsibilities among regions could impair just transition and exacerbate uneven development, which necessitates an in-depth understanding of the mechanism of multi-scale carbon inequalities within country, region, and city. Yet, the evolution of carbon inequalities within urban agglomerations and the differences between adjacent or distant urban agglomerations have not been well understood, especially in countries undergoing rapid urbanization. Using the data of 89 cities in China's Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) during 2006–2021, this paper quantifies carbon emissions inequality (CEI) at different scales in a systematic regional-urban agglomeration-city hierarchical structure. Then, under the integrated mean logarithmic deviation-logarithmic mean Divisia index (MLD-LMDI) decomposition framework, multi-scale CEIs are perfectly decomposed into six interrelated drivers, i.e., industrial emission structure, energy emission intensity, industrial energy mix, energy intensity, industrial structure, and economic development. The results show that economic development, energy intensity, and industrial energy mix disparities are the main determinants accounting for CEIs at different scales. The decreasing CEI in YREB is mainly due to the changes in industrial structure and economic development, while the energy intensity effect partially hinders the mitigation of CEI. In the upper reaches of the YREB, the energy intensity effect accounts for over 94% growth of CEI during 2006–2021, while the decline in CEIs in middle and lower reaches is primarily caused by the effects of industrial energy mix and industrial structure, respectively. Further spatial decomposition analysis reveals more refined city-level heterogeneous effects and emphasizes the prioritized emission reduction direction for each city. This paper offers implications for reducing carbon inequality and insights into coordinated carbon emissions mitigation at the regional level for a carbon–neutral future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This paper constructs the MRIO of YEB. • This paper constructs the spatial–temporal pattern of virtual water trade in the YEB. • This paper discovers that the virtual water trade pattern is contrary to the virtual water strategy hypothesis because of productivity. Cross-regional water allocation within the river basin, coupled with the development of specialized industries based on comparative advantages, can effectively mediate overall water use efficiency. The uneven distribution of water resources and structural contradictions in water usage hinder the sustainable development of water resources in the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YEB). This study aims to address these issues from the perspective of virtual water trade, to facilitate cross-regional water resource allocation and guide structural adjustments in industrial water use, ensuring water security. In this study, we developed a dynamic multi-regional input–output model (MRIO) to explore dynamic change of virtual water trade pattern in the YEB that evolves over time. This model sheds light on evolving virtual water transfer patterns and the nuances of water resource pressure transmission. Additionally, it quantifies sectoral water use variations, pinpointing the cornerstone industries across different regions. The findings are as follows: (1) The pattern of virtual water transfer predominantly towards the developed downstream regions remains unchanged, but regional disparities are gradually diminishing. (2) The upstream regions of the YEB transfer more water resource pressures externally, while the downstream regions do not experience excessive external transfers of water resource pressures. (3) The pattern of Agriculture-driven virtual water transfers is gradually being disrupted. While the upstream regions continue to rely on Agriculture as their pillar industries, the downstream regions are progressively shifting towards tertiary industries such as Service. These results indicate that economic development is the primary driver of changes in the the pattern of virtual water transfer, and economic disparities are a key factor in shaping the latest virtual water transfer. Based on existing policies, there is a need for comprehensive coordination of water resource allocation and strengthening of virtual water trade exchanges between regions to address the uneven distribution of water resources. Additionally, it is necessary to resolve structural water use conflicts by developing specialized economic strengths based on the main industries for virtual water in each region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper revealed the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of Chinese marine environmental quality and driving factors during 2003–2021. [Display omitted] • Spatial distribution: South China Sea > East China Sea > Yellow Sea > Bohai Sea. • Shanghai, Zhejiang, Fujian and Hainan maintain high-pollution-low-investment model. • Jiangsu maintains low-pollution-low-investment model. • Typical correlation between Environmental Quality and Socioeconomic is 0.960. • GOP and Per Capita GDP show significant correlation with excellent water quality. As land and sea integration continues to accelerate, it will inevitably have an effect on the marine ecological environment. However, the study on spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of Chinese marine environmental quality and its driving factors was lacking. This paper employs Regression Analysis, Spearman Correlation Analysis, Canonical Correlation Analysis, Boston Consulting Group Matrix and Environmental Kuznets Curve to examine the spatial–temporal distribution characteristics and correlation factors of Chinese jurisdictional sea areas environmental quality. The environmental quality of the waters under China's jurisdiction improved on average from 2003 to 2021, the area of sea with excellent water quality increased by 7.21 × 104 km2. The spatial distribution showed "South superior, North inferior" trend. The accumulated red tide area is 2.01 × 105 km2, and the green tide has the average maximum area of distribution is 3.13 × 104 km2. The marine dumping area's volume of waste has a three stages of slow rise (2003–2007), steady (2008–2014) and rapid rise (2015–2021). The average percentage of seawater bathing areas with good water quality is 82.10 %. Urban Environmental Infrastructure Investment and Urban Drainage Construction Investments are positively correlated with excellent water quality and negatively correlated with light-sewage water quality. The typical correlation for the group "Environmental Quality/Environmental Governance" is 0.911, and the strongest correlation is between excellent water quality and urban drainage construction investment. The typical correlation coefficient for the "Environmental Quality/Socioeconomic" group is 0.960, and the strongest correlation is between excellent water quality and per capita GDP. The Gross Ocean Product, Per Capita GDP, Proportion of Non-agricultural Industries, Year-end Resident Population, and excellent water quality are positively correlated whereas light-sewage water quality is negatively correlated. Liaoning, Tianjin, Shandong and Guangdong shift from high-pollution-low-investment to low-pollution-low-investment model. Shanghai, Zhejiang, Fujian and Hainan maintain high-pollution-low-investment model, Hainan maintains high-pollution-high-investment model. Jiangsu maintains low-pollution-low-investment model. Hebei and Guangxi shift from low-pollution-low-investment to low-pollution-high-investment model. Liaoning, Hebei, Tianjin, Shandong, Guangxi and Shanghai show inverted "N" shape, Jiangsu shows positive "N" shape, Zhejiang and Fujian show monotonic decline shape, Guangdong and Hainan show positive "U" shape. The results could provide valuable suggestions for coastal provinces to accomplish economic development and environmental improvement, which to prevent the old way of "pollution first and treatment later". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reducing carbon emissions and improving vegetation carbon sequestration (VCS) have long been recognized as the key ways to address the aim of carbon neutrality, requiring global effort and typical regional experiences. This paper develops an assessment framework for measuring the net carbon sink efficiency (NCSE) based on the concept of net-zero carbon sink to depict both carbon emission and VCS simultaneously. This paper primarily runs a spatial autocorrelation analysis to explore spatial characteristics of urbanization and NCSE of Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration (YRD) in China from 2000 to 2020, followed by employs a spatial econometric model to investigate the spatial spillover effect of urbanization on NCSE. The results show that NCSE in YRD exhibits clear spatial disparities, descending from the southern part dominated by mountainous hills to the flatter northern region. The spatial evolutionary trend of urbanization and NCSE has a significant positive correlation, manifested as H-H and L-L agglomeration, covering most counties in southeast coastal areas and northern plains, respectively. The NCSE can improve even during the continued urbanization in YRD. Specifically, for every 1% increase in urbanization, NCSE will increase by 0.164%, of which 0.118% in direct and 0.046% in indirect growth, respectively. In addition, GDP per capita, industrial structure, technological progress, road area and direct foreign investment are benefit for NCSE. In contrast, population density, environmental regulation, and built-up area tend to decline NCSE. These findings may help to formulate the urban sustainable development planning and differentiated carbon neutrality policies.

This paper shows a novel approach of assessing landscape elements and their contribution to CES using two methods of data collection. The paper attempts to bridge the identification gap between CES and structures providing them by introducing different methods of 1) field evaluation, allowing interaction in person and 2) through an online survey, which, although restrictive in terms of interaction, facilitates the processing of the collected data. A checklist of landscape elements important for CES is proposed and investigated – which elements are highly valued, where they are valued, and how they are valued across Slovenia as a case example. The sequence of methods includes literature review, field surveying in 18 test areas, and validation through an online questionnaire. The results indicate that identity is the common denominator of landscape elements' CES value, linked to both widespread and region-specific elements assessment. Vegetation and water elements are strongly associated with CES of aesthetic and health. The built elements and cultivated elements are associated with heritage and traditional knowledge.Both field research and online surveying have their strengths and limitations. However, conclusions can be drawn about landscape elements important for identity and other CES. The study highlights the complexity of individual perceptions and the need for different evaluation methods, including in-person and online surveys. The methodology used can be applied, with some adaptations, to specific sites depending on the planning problem, as well as a research approach for fundamental or detailed CES and landscape evaluation studies.

Decentralization is essential for the sustainable socio-economic development of megacities. In the context of the decentralization of noncapital functions in Beijing, the renewal of inefficient urban industrial land (UIL) into urban green space (UGS) is an important way to improve the quality of the city. This paper analyzes the urban industrial land use efficiency (UILUE) and its urban green space suitability (UGSS) of 865 study units in Daxing District, Beijing, and combines bivariate spatial autocorrelation with cluster analysis. The results show that (1) the distribution of UIL in Daxing District is “dense in the north and sparse in the south”, and UILUE shows a spatial pattern of “high in the west and low in the east”, with a high-efficiency area of 985.85 ha, accounting for 12.06 % of the study area, and a low-efficiency area of 507.77 ha, accounting for 6.21 % of the study area. (2) Among the existing UIL, the high suitable area is 1106.46 ha, accounting for 13.57 % of the study area, and the low suitable area is 439 ha, accounting for 5.38 % of the study area. (3) Through bivariate spatial autocorrelation analysis, four types of UIL were identified, among which the low–high cluster area had the greatest potential for land conversion, with 175 study units and an area of 1335.22 ha, accounting for 16.28 % of the study area. Finally, this paper proposes recommendations for the renewal and utilization of UIL in Daxing District to provide guidance and suggestions for the decentralization of other megacities in the world.

High-quality urban and rural development is an essential topic of China’s development and has clarified the new direction of urbanization development. Meanwhile, industrial green transformation is an essential industrial support for promoting new urbanization. This paper primarily discusses the economic and environmental effects of the new durbanization on the high-quality development in urban and rural areas, and further evaluates its structural effects from the perspective of green industry-driven growth. This paper conducts econometric research on sample data through breakpoint regression, impulse response, and dummy variable Tobit models. The main conclusions are: (1) In the long run, the new urbanization is not conducive to income balance and pollutant emission reduction between urban and rural area. In the explosive growth stage, new urbanization began to play a “diffusion effect.” In the steady deepening stage, new urbanization significantly promoted the reduction of solid waste emissions. (2) Driven by the industrial green transformation, the steady state of new urbanization shows a marginal increase in urban–rural income balance. In contrast, the explosion stage shows the characteristics of a marginal decrease in carbon emissions and wastewater discharge. (3) Based on the diversity of policy transmission, in the transmission path of industrial green transformation, new urbanization has the most prominent impact on the high-quality development of urban and rural. (4) Based on the regional perspective of policy implementation, the “polarization” effect of new urbanization and industrial green transformation on urban and rural income in the eastern and northern coasts is prominent.

The Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region is an integral part of the ecology and economy of northern China. Unique geographical factors closely interlink the regions; however, limited attention has been paid to urban clusters' ecological and economic spatial linkages. Therefore, this paper introduces Ecosystem service value and Ecological-economic coordination degree, considering extensive spatial spillover effects within the region under study. This paper adopts spatial autocorrelation and the spatial Durbin model to detect the coordination relationship. Moreover, examine the influence of population growth, sales of consumer goods, health facilities, green areas, and Tertiary Industry on Ecological-economic coordination. The relationship is tested economic growth, using the internal and external Thus, it determines that the change of coordination degree shows a “V”-shaped development in time and space and gradually realizes the overall coordinated development. It affirmed the judgment that the Ecological-economic coordination degree of each region has an obvious spatial spillover effect. Policy reforms, improved functions, and development mechanisms can enable the balanced and healthy development of the region's ecological and economic systems.

As urbanization and industrialization accelerate, the imbalance in agricultural land use between economic development, social security, and ecological protection becomes increasingly apparent. To achieve sustainable utilization of agricultural land, it is essential to promote the coordinated development of economic, social, and ecological benefits. To this end, this paper constructs an evaluation index system for agricultural land utilization benefits (ALUBs) based on three dimensions of economy, society, and ecology and adopts the Mechanical Equilibrium Model to analyze the spatial–temporal evolution of ALUBs and their tradeoffs/synergies in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) region at the county scale from 2000 to 2020. The results indicate that: (1) economic, social, and comprehensive benefits increased significantly, while the ecological benefit remained relatively stable; (2) the overall coordination degree of ALUBs increased continuously, albeit with evident spatial differences; (3) with the rapid growth of social benefit, the deviation types shifted from economic and ecological benefit dominant areas to social benefit dominant areas. Corresponding suggestions for sustainable agricultural land use are also proposed based on the characteristics of ecologically fragile areas, core urbanization areas, and major grain-producing areas, respectively. This paper can serve as a useful reference for the sustainable utilization and management of agricultural land.

Industrial Park is a part of urban development and plays an indispensable role in promoting regional economic development. However, the high consumption of resources and the concentrated emission of pollution pose a great threat to the ecological balance and human health. Therefore, the future of industrial park needs to be balanced with economic growth while realizing resource conservation and environmental improvement as much as possible. However, there is still a research gap in analyzing the relationship between ecological environment quality (EEQ) and economic development (ED) at the industrial park scale. This paper first constructs the new remote sensing ecological index (RSEInew) model to measure the EEQ of Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP) from 2000 to 2020. Then this study constructs an ED index system to evaluate its economic situation. Finally, this paper utilizes the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) model and the coupled coordination degree (CCD) model to deeply analyze the relationship between EEQ and ED. The results show that: (1) The average annual growth rate of EEQ in SIP is −1.50 %, with a general downward trend. Over the past 20 years, the ecological environment of SIP has not deteriorated extensively. (2) The ED of SIP is steady and rising, with an average annual growth rate of 10.17 %. (3) From 2000 to 2020, the EKC between EEQ and the ED of the SIP takes on an inverted “N” shape, with its CCD rising from barely coordinated to highly coordinated. This study can provide a reference for studying the quality development of areas at the industrial park level.

Based on the natural resource endowment perspective, this paper examines how landscape patterns change over time and how ecosystem service value (ESV) responds to these changes, which plays an important role in rationalizing land use to make international wetland cities more sustainable. To identify the spatial and temporal variations in landscape patterns and ESV in Nanchang City and to investigate their relationships between them, six periods of land use data and associated socio-economic data from 1995 to 2020 were chosen as a sample of international wetland cities. The findings demonstrated that during the study period, the land use pattern of Nanchang City formed a landscape pattern dominated by cropland and supplemented by wetland, construction land, and woodland. And the ESV increased from 18,887.96 to 20,900.44 million yuan, with a total increase of 10.66 % in 25 years. Among them, the contribution of wetlands to the ESV was more than 71 %. The study also discovered that changes in landscape patterns significantly affect the ESV in Nanchang City, and the impact of landscape changes on the ESV varies among lands. In addition, although the ESV in Nanchang City has increased, there is still a risk of landscape fragility. This paper proposes relevant suggestions for increasing the ESV in Nanchang City by identifying key landscape pattern characteristics.

With the rapid economic development, the imbalance between the economy and the environment is evident for Chinese cities. The coupling coordination degree (CCD) between urban land use efficiency (ULUE) and ecological carrying capacity (ECC) represents resource-intensive societies and is a significant tool for assessing sustainable development. Therefore, scientific evaluation of the coordinating relationship between ULUE and ECC is essential for optimizing the quality of urbanization and improving the state of the ecological environment. However, current studies on the CCD of ECC and ULUE lack quantitative assessment of the effect of ECC subsystems on overall CCD and have not yet evaluated the urban development stages. In this paper, taking 12 cities in Inner Mongolia as an example, a framework for CCD evaluation that includes comprehensive index analysis, coupling coordination quantification, coupling type identification, and coordination influence evaluation was created. This paper attempts to clarify the distinctions throughout cities and to propose distinctive development suggestions. The results indicate that the ULUE of Inner Mongolian cities has risen significantly, whereas their ECC levels fluctuate, growing at a slower rate than ULUE. As the level of coordination between the two systems increases, it changes from “basic disorders” to “basic coordination”. In terms of spatial distribution, the CCD in Inner Mongolia has a pattern of “high in the northeast and low in the southwest”. The pressure subsystem primarily performs a reverse blocking role in the CCD between ULUE and ECC, while the rest of the ECC subsystems exhibit different patterns over time. Additionally, the stages of urban development were investigated based on the temporal variations in ECC and ULUE, and several focused suggestions were provided.

Since land resources are essential to human survival, the over-exploitation and unreasonable utilization of land threatens the sustainability of human society. This paper uses the well-developed Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region as a case study, and adopts an improved Mixed-cell Cellular Automata Model (MCCA) to simulate the potential utilization of land resources in 2025 and 2035. Then, the paper attempts to construct a comprehensive assessment system that integrates multiple indicators, and evaluates regional risk changes at a micro patch-cell level and a macro city. The results suggest that (1) The utilization of land resources varies greatly in the YRD region from 2020 to 2035. While Shanghai will continue to make use of available built up land resources, the majority of land resources in Jiangsu Province will shift away from being agricultural in nature. Since forests make up a majority of the land resources in Zhejiang Province, and forests and agricultural land make up a majority of land resources in Anhui Province, the change in land utilization in these two provinces will be more gradual. (2) Changes in land utilization are also likely to cause ecological risks. The risk level in Shanghai is the highest, it is relatively high in Zhejiang but is likely to decrease, relatively low in Jiangsu but likely to increase, and Anhui has the lowest risk level. (3) The K-means clustering method obtained three ecological risk zones of the YRD, and the overall risk level is the highest in the central-eastern zoning ③, followed by the southern zoning ②, and the lowest in the northern zoning ①. Furthermore, the agglomeration pattern of the three zones transforms from L-L to H-H. (4) This paper puts forward corresponding suggestions and countermeasures for four aspects, including the strengthening of agricultural land protection, the regulation of built-up land use expansion, the coordination of an all-rounded approach of urban development, and the fostering of regional sustainable development, in hopes of optimizing land usage and alleviating ecological risk levels. Scientific estimations of potential ecological risks are critical to avoiding future ecological crises thus contributing to more sustainability.