Dynamic Matching and Spatial Optimization of Land Use and Resource-Environment Constraints in Typical Regions of the Yellow River Basin in China
Round 1
Reviewer 1 Report
Dear authors,
Your study has the potential to significantly contribute to the field of land use and resource-environment management. However, in order to enhance the quality and impact of your worthwhile research, I kindly urge you to carefully consider the comments and suggestions provided section by section in my review.
Introduction
1. I suggest that the authors consider dividing the second paragraph of the introduction into two separate paragraphs. The current structure is lengthy and difficult to follow. This paragraph contains a significant amount of background information, so it would be beneficial to condense certain aspects in order to maintain a concise and focused introduction.
2. It is suggested that the authors enhance the background information on their research area. They should delve into the significance and context of the Yellow River basin in China, specifically focusing on its territorial space development and carrying capacity challenges. This will enable readers to grasp the study's importance and relevance in tackling these issues.
3. Although the research contribution is sufficiently elaborated in the discussion section, I recommend that the authors highlight the novelty and main contribution/s of their work in the introduction. Clearly state how the study fills the existing gap in empirical attention and adds to the theoretical and practical implications of resources and environment carrying capacity.
4. While the introduction briefly mentions the coupling framework and evaluation system, it would be beneficial to provide a clearer overview of the methodology employed. This will give readers a better understanding of the research approach and how it aligns with the research objectives.
Theoretical framework
1. In this section, it would be beneficial if the authors could provide clear definitions of key terms such as 'carrying capacity,' 'matching relationship,' and 'territorial space.' It will help readers better understand the precise meanings of these concepts within your study. For instance, it is imperative to clearly specify the specific definition of carrying capacity that is used as the foundation for analysis. There are multiple definitions available, and explicitly stating which one is being utilized, will ensure clarity and consistency throughout the study.
2. While the authors mention two methods for evaluating carrying capacity in this section, the explanation of these methods is somewhat convoluted. Please explain in clear terms how these methods work, how they have been applied in your study, and their potential limitations. I recommend that the authors clarify whether they utilized a hybrid of these two approaches or introduced an entirely new methodology. It appears to me that enhancements have been made to the aforementioned methods. If this is the case, please explain how your new methodology intends to overcome the limitations of these existing methods.
Research methods and data sources
1. Tables 1, 2 and 3 are not referenced or acknowledged in the content of the paper.
2. I kindly request the authors to provide references for lines 199 to 205 to support their statements and claims.
3. It seems that in the Formulations Column of Table 1, some corrections need to be made to E1 (1- ?) and E7 (Radical’s Root is written in a very small font).
4. In accordance with the abbreviations explained in detail in the Note section below the tables, please introduce the NPPmean as indicated in Table 1.
5. In Table 3, I recommend changing the comfort degree to Thermal Comfort and mentioning the unit of measurement (F or C).
6. To provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors, formulas, and grades and scores mentioned in Tables 1, 2, and 3, including references from which these variables and grade classifications were derived would be helpful. Citing relevant standards for the grades and scores utilized by the authors would enhance clarity for readers. For example, readers may question why these levels and thresholds are used to categorize thermal comfort; therefore, referencing the specific literature from which this information was derived is crucial. This practice is applicable to other factors addressed in Tables 2 and 3. For Factors, Formulas, and Grades and Scores developed and suggested by the authors themselves, please provide clarification and briefly explain the logic behind the thresholds used to score each factor.
7. The formula presented in Equation 5 lacks clarity and requires further explanation. Specifically, it would be helpful to provide a clear description of the calculations for Dz, Dy, Dx as well as how D itself is determined within the current format of Eq 5.
Discussion
To enhance the thoroughness and validity of the paper, it is advisable for the authors to augment the discussion section by including an additional subsection that compares their results and findings with those of other relevant papers. If applicable, this comparative analysis could specifically focus on previous studies conducted in the same study area that examined aspects related to carrying capacity. By incorporating such a comparison, readers will gain valuable insights into how this current research aligns or deviates from existing literature in terms of its assessment of carrying capacity within the specific context being investigated.
In addition, it is recommended that you engage in a thorough examination of your methodology and compare it to other studies that have employed either one of the two methodologies described in the Theoretical Framework section. This will allow for a comprehensive methodological discussion and help establish how your methodology aligns with or complements previous research methods.
Conclusion
I propose that the authors consider relocating lines 586 to 591 to the introductory part of their conclusion section. These lines can serve as an opening paragraph, highlighting key points for discussion. Subsequently, the main findings should be presented in a structured manner using paragraphs that begin with "firstly," "secondly," and "thirdly." Lines 591 (beginning with "Finally, ...") until line 601 can then be included as the concluding paragraph within this section. In addition, it is advisable for the authors to incorporate their important proposed strategies regarding optimal regulation and control of sustainable territorial use within this final paragraph.
The paper contains a few grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors that require revision by the authors. For instance, please double-check lines 131, 252-257, 262-265, 359-361
Author Response
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Reviewer 2 Report
Based on the evaluation of territorial space dynamics of lower Yellow River, this paper evaluates the suitability of territorial space development by focusing on ecological protection, agricultural development and urban construction.The method of the article is clear, the data is feasible, and its results have a certain guiding effect on regional land spatial planning. It is recommended to revise and publish it. The main modification suggestions are as follows:
1. The statement on the origin of the concept of carrying capacity in lines 44 to 45 remains to be discussed, and the author is requested to verify it again.
2. In the final conclusion of the article, the author needs to propose policy recommendations for optimizing regional land spatial development based on the research results of the paper, rather than duplicating the results.
Author Response
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Reviewer 3 Report
This paper structures the role of potential conflict identification and mediation between the suitability of territorial space development and the carrying capacity of resources and the environment. The research results can also provide a theoretical foundation for the territorial space and the resources and environment carrying capacity. In my opinion this work fits well within scope of the journal. The research can make an original contribution in this area. Some areas should be improved before publication.
1.Should add the mean of the green region in figure 4(b) and (c).
2.In section 4.2.3 should add the change of urban space.
Author Response
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Author Response File: Author Response.docx
Round 2
Reviewer 1 Report
Dear authors,
Thank you for addressing the comments thoroughly.
Best,
