Spatiotemporal changes in land use and residential satisfaction in the Huai River-Gaoyou Lake Rim area

This research investigates the dynamic interplay between land use changes and landscape ecological risks in China’s Jiangsu Province, specifically focusing on the Huai River-Gaoyou Lake region. Leveraging multi-temporal remote sensing data from 2000 to 2020, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of shifting land cover patterns and their implications. Employing geostatistical techniques, we developed a landscape ecological risk assessment model to quantify ecological vulnerabilities. Additionally, we conducted a resident satisfaction survey aligned with the “Production–Living–Ecological” framework to gain insights into societal perceptions of land use dynamics. Our findings reveal significant land use shifts driven by urbanization, industrialization, and agricultural modernization. While farmland areas have decreased, water bodies and artificial surfaces have expanded, reflecting societal demands and economic growth. The landscape ecological risk assessment model highlights localized vulnerabilities, emphasizing the intricate relationship between land use changes and ecological risks. The resident satisfaction survey indicates overall contentment with various aspects of land use, especially in terms of residential comfort and transportation convenience. However, ecological concerns underscore the need for a balanced approach to land management that prioritizes ecological sustainability alongside economic development.