Identifying the dominant drivers of grassland degradation in Inner Mongolia, China

作者：Mei Yong, Batu Nacun, Chang An, WU Yong-sheng, Yuhai Bao, Kaixin Liu, Yu Feng, Yunfeng Hu, Chunxing Hai, Claas Nendel · 发表于：Ecological Indicators · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.1016/j.ecolind.2025.114161 · 被引用次数：7 · 研究领域：Rangeland Management and Livestock Ecology、Remote Sensing and Land Use、Environmental Changes in China

Grassland degradation (GD) is a complex, multi-factorial, and multi-dimensional process. Identifying its drivers requires a multi-level approach that integrates dynamic changes, synergistic interactions, and spatial heterogeneity of various factors. Recognising key drivers at the regional level is essential for effective management, as it supports context-specific strategies to curb GD. In this study, we analysed the spatiotemporal dynamics of GD and restoration in Inner Mongolia (1990–2020) at the league/city level based on land-use/land-cover changes. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, we examined ten driving factors categorised into urbanisation, human disturbance, climate, and livelihood. We applied partial order theory and Hasse diagrams to identify the dominant degradation drivers. Our findings revealed the following. (1) From 1990 to 2000, 2000–2010, and 2010–2020, GD affected 3.7%, 2.9%, and 3.2% of the study area, respectively, whereas grassland restoration occurred across 3.5%, 3.8%, and 2.5% of the study area, respectively. Grassland restored overall with partial degraded since 1990. (2) Before 2000, human disturbance was the primary driver, influencing 9 of the 12 leagues/cities, followed by climatic factors and urbanisation. After 2000, urbanisation became the dominant driver in most regions. (3) Economic development and land-use strategies evolved through three phases: grassland privatisation and protection (pre-2000), ecological restoration and industrial ...