Can We Prevent Irreversible Decline? A Comprehensive Analysis of Natural Conditions and Quality Factor Thresholds of Cultivated Land in China

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

The article "Can We Prevent Irreversible Decline? A Comprehensive Analysis of Natural Conditions and Quality Factor Thresholds of Cultivated Land in China" presents detailed research on the state of cropland in China and proposes management measures to prevent decline. The authors rely on national reports and verified datasets, and the logic used in establishing variables and indicators is clear. The model for interpreting the data is presented coherently and scientifically convincing.

In terms of scientific background, the article should benefit from a broader theoretical foundation and an extended literature review. It is important to make a clear connection between the research presented and the various relevant international scientific studies to enrich the bibliography and provide a more comprehensive perspective.

The research methods are derived from international reference works, which is positive, but a more detailed theoretical depth is needed to connect them to international scientific diversity. This will help to gain a deeper understanding of the methods used and strengthen the study's scientific rigour.

The conclusions of the research are presented in the article, but it is necessary to explicitly formulate hypotheses or research questions that demonstrate how the results are validated or invalidated. Scientific or analytical discussion of conclusions could also be complemented with future perspectives using the scenario method, thus comparing current policy measures, strategies and management with those suggested. An extended description of current Chinese policies in the field is needed in the introduction to the study.

Recommendations for improving scientific soundness:

1.     Expanding the theoretical foundation and literature review to provide a broader perspective and strengthen the study's theoretical basis.

2.     Explain in more detail the methods used, connecting them to international scientific diversity to highlight the scientific rigour of research.

3.     Include an extensive description of current policies in the field in the first section to better contextualize research and increase the relevance of conclusions.

4.     Explicit formulation of hypotheses or research questions to establish the full validation cycle or invalidation of the obtained results.

5.     Adding future perspectives by using the scenario method (worst and best), comparing policy measures and current management with those suggested in research.

6.     Finally, authors are encouraged to respond comprehensively to the title question, "Can We Prevent Irreversible Decline?" and provide a more detailed analysis of the possibilities and limitations in preventing (irreversible) cropland decline. This would contribute to strengthening the scientific relevance and practical applicability of their research.

Minor editing of the English language required.

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 2 Report

Dear Authors,

The manuscript is in need of substantial improvement and enhancement in terms of the English language, with specific attention to grammar and punctuation.

Additionally, there were several comments and suggestions provided that should be incorporated by the authors during the revision process.

Hence, please find attached a PDF file containing numerous comments that must be taken into consideration when revising your manuscript.

Good luck.

 

Comments for author File: Comments.pdf

The manuscript requires extensive improvement and enhancement of the English language.

 

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Round 2

Reviewer 1 Report

The authors didn't consider the reviewer's recommendations—still no clear hypotheses, no clear correlation to the validation process, and no bibliographical diversification. Weak paper revision!

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 2 Report

Dear Authors,

I appreciate your dedication to improving your manuscript. However, I believe there are a few more comments that you can easily address.

Good luck.

Comments for author File: Comments.pdf

Minor editing of English language required.

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx