Integrating Global and Local Perspectives to Characterize Ecosystem Service Trade-offs and Synergies: Spatiotemporal Dynamics and Spatial Heterogeneity

Abstract

Ecosystem service assessment is crucial for maintaining regional ecological balance and promoting sustainable development. Using the InVEST model and Geodetector, this study quantified four ecosystem services, including habitat quality, water yield, soil retention, and carbon storage, and identified their driving mechanisms in Quanzhou from 2013 to 2023. Spearman correlation analysis and geographically weighted regression (GWR) were employed to examine trade-offs and synergies. Results show that habitat quality was higher in the northwest and lower in the southeast. Water yield per unit area was lower centrally and higher peripherally, with the total fluctuating between 8.43×109 m3 and 8.85×109 m3. Soil retention per unit area decreased from the inland northwest to the coastal southeast, with the total amount first declining and then rising. Carbon storage per unit area was higher in the northwest and lower in the southeast, with total carbon storage decreasing by 2.13%. Driving factor analysis indicated that the spatial variations in ecosystem service changes were influenced by different factors. Precipitation changes, elevation, and vegetation changes exhibited relatively high explanatory power, and the interactions among multiple factors further enhanced the explanation of ecosystem service changes. Synergistic relationships were dominant among ecosystem services. Trade-offs and synergies between habitat quality and water yield exhibited significant land-sea differentiation. Strong synergies and strong trade-offs between habitat quality and soil retention were concentrated in southeastern coastal areas, though weak synergies remained dominant. Habitat quality and carbon storage showed synergistic relationships. Water yield and soil retention demonstrated inland synergies and coastal trade-offs, with trade-off areas expanding from 7559 km2 to 8264 km2. Water yield and carbon storage were primarily in a trade-off relationship, while soil retention and carbon storage exhibited significant synergistic effects. These findings provide a scientific basis for ecological management and spatial planning in coastal urban regions like the West Coast Economic Zone.