Using remote sensing data to evaluate the ecological restoration in Taiyuan from the SDGs perspective

ABSTRACTRemote sensing technology plays a critical role in evaluating large-scale ecological restoration efforts. However, previous studies tend to focus on specific aspects of ecological restoration, such as water conservation, vegetation restoration, or land rehabilitation. As a sustainable development demonstration city in China, Taiyuan has undertaken numerous ecological projects to mitigate environmental degradation caused by its long-standing energy-driven economic expansion. To comprehensively evaluate Taiyuan’s ecological restoration efforts, this study used remote sensing technology to assess its progress from the SDGs perspectives, such as water conservation (SDG 6.3.2), air quality improvement (SDG 11.6.2), and ecosystem preservation (SDG 6.6.1, 15.1.1, 15.3.1, 15.4.2). Firstly, ecological restoration indicators were selected from the aforementioned SDGs perspectives. Secondly, a new vegetation growth condition index (VGCI) was developed to accurately monitor changes in vegetation growth. Finally, Taiyuan’s ecological restoration efforts were evaluated based on the selected indicators. The results showed that Taiyuan has made significant progress in ecological restoration, including improved water and air quality, increased forest coverage, and restored mine’s vegetation, likely due to its ecological projects. This study provides a useful framework for evaluating ecological restoration efforts and advancing sustainability goals.