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Search Results (1,175)

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24 pages, 9491 KiB  
Article
Provenance of the Upper Permian Longtan Formation in Southern Anhui Province in the Lower Yangtze Region, China: Insights from Sedimentary and Geochemical Characteristics
by Sizhe Deng, Dujie Hou and Wenli Ma
Minerals 2025, 15(8), 831; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15080831 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
There are many controversies over the material sources of the Late Paleozoic strata in the Lower Yangtze region, and there is a lack of consensus on the basin source–sink system, which hinders the reconstruction of Late Paleozoic paleogeography and exploration of energy and [...] Read more.
There are many controversies over the material sources of the Late Paleozoic strata in the Lower Yangtze region, and there is a lack of consensus on the basin source–sink system, which hinders the reconstruction of Late Paleozoic paleogeography and exploration of energy and mineral resources in the area. This study aimed to clarify the sedimentary provenance and tectonic background of the Upper Permian Longtan Formation in the Chizhou area of southern Anhui Province. The key objectives were to: (i) analyze the geochemical characteristics of sandstones using major, trace, and rare earth elements; (ii) determine the tectonic setting of the sediment source region based on discrimination diagrams; and (iii) integrate geochemical, sedimentological, and paleocurrent data to reconstruct the source-to-sink system. The geochemical data suggest that the sandstone samples exhibit relatively high SiO2, Fe2O3, MgO, and Na2O content and relatively low TiO2, Al2O3, and K2O content, consistent with average values of post-Archean Australian shale (PAAS) and the upper continental crust (UCC). The chondrite-normalized rare earth element patterns resemble PAAS, with enrichment in light REEs and depletion in heavy REEs. Tectonic discrimination diagrams indicate a provenance from active continental margins and continental island arcs, with minor input from passive continental margins. Combined with regional tectonic context and paleocurrent measurements, the results suggest that the Longtan Formation sediments primarily originated from the Neoproterozoic Jiangnan orogenic belt and the Cathaysia Block, notably the Wuyi terrane. These research results not only provide new geological data for further clarifying the provenance of Late Paleozoic sedimentary basins in the Lower Yangtze region but also establish the foundation for constructing the Late Paleozoic tectonic paleogeographic pattern in South China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 7th National Youth Geological Congress)
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21 pages, 7111 KiB  
Article
Seasonal Variation in Energy Balance, Evapotranspiration and Net Ecosystem Production in a Desert Ecosystem of Dengkou, Inner Mongolia, China
by Muhammad Zain Ul Abidin, Huijie Xiao, Sanaullah Magsi, Fang Hongxin, Komal Muskan, Phuocthoi Hoang and Muhammad Azher Hassan
Water 2025, 17(15), 2307; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17152307 - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 70
Abstract
This study investigates the seasonal dynamics of energy balance, evapotranspiration (ET), and Net Ecosystem Production (NEP) in the Dengkou desert ecosystem of Inner Mongolia, China. Using eddy covariance and meteorological data from 2019 to 2022, the research focuses on understanding how these processes [...] Read more.
This study investigates the seasonal dynamics of energy balance, evapotranspiration (ET), and Net Ecosystem Production (NEP) in the Dengkou desert ecosystem of Inner Mongolia, China. Using eddy covariance and meteorological data from 2019 to 2022, the research focuses on understanding how these processes interact in one of the world’s most water-limited environments. This arid research area received an average of 109.35 mm per annum precipitation over the studied period, classifying the region as a typical arid ecosystem. Seasonal patterns were observed in daily air temperature, with extremes ranging from −20.6 °C to 29.6 °C. Temporal variations in sensible heat flux (H), latent heat flux (LE), and net radiation (Rn) peaked during summer season. The average ground heat flux (G) was mostly positive throughout the observation period, indicating heat transmission from atmosphere to soil, but showed negative values during the winter season. The energy balance ratio for the studied period was in the range of 0.61 to 0.80, indicating challenges in achieving energy closure and ecological shifts. ET exhibited two annual peaks influenced by vegetation growth and climate change, with annual ET exceeding annual precipitation, except in 2021. Net ecosystem production (NEP) from 2019 to 2020 revealed that the Dengkou desert were a net source of carbon, indicating the carbon loss from the ecosystem. In 2021, the Dengkou ecosystem shifted to become a net carbon sink, effectively sequestrating carbon. However, this was sharply reversed in 2022, resulting in a significant net release of carbon. The study findings highlight the complex interactions between energy balance components, ET, and NEP in desert ecosystems, providing insights into sustainable water management and carbon neutrality strategies in arid regions under climate change effect. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Observation and Modeling of Surface Air Hydrological Factors)
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23 pages, 5566 KiB  
Article
Response Mechanisms of Vegetation Productivity to Water Variability in Arid and Semi-Arid Areas of China: A Decoupling Analysis of Soil Moisture and Precipitation
by Zijian Liu, Hao Lin, Hongrui Li, Mengyang Li, Peng Zhou, Ziyu Wang and Jiqiang Niu
Atmosphere 2025, 16(8), 933; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16080933 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 50
Abstract
Arid and semi-arid areas serve a critical regulatory function within the global carbon cycle. Understanding the response mechanisms of vegetation productivity to variations in moisture availability represents a fundamental scientific challenge in elucidating terrestrial carbon dynamics. This study systematically disentangled the respective influences [...] Read more.
Arid and semi-arid areas serve a critical regulatory function within the global carbon cycle. Understanding the response mechanisms of vegetation productivity to variations in moisture availability represents a fundamental scientific challenge in elucidating terrestrial carbon dynamics. This study systematically disentangled the respective influences of summer surface soil moisture (RSM) and precipitation (PRE) on gross primary productivity (GPP) across arid and semi-arid regions of China from 2000 to 2022. Utilizing GPP datasets alongside correlation analysis, ridge regression, and data binning techniques, the investigation yielded several key findings: (1) Both GPP and RSM exhibited significant upward trends within the study area, whereas precipitation showed no statistically significant trend; notably, GPP demonstrated the highest rate of increase at 0.455 Cg m−2 a−1. (2) Decoupling analysis indicated a coupled relationship between RSM and PRE; however, their individual effects on GPP were not merely a consequence of this coupling. Controlling for evapotranspiration and root-zone soil moisture interference, the analysis revealed that under conditions of elevated RSM, the average increase in summer–autumn GPP (SAGPP) was 0.249, significantly surpassing the increase observed under high-PRE conditions (−0.088). Areas dominated by RSM accounted for 62.13% of the total study region. Furthermore, examination of the aridity gradient demonstrated that the predominance of RSM intensified with increasing aridity, reaching its peak influence in extremely arid zones. This research provides a quantitative assessment of the differential impacts of RSM and PRE on vegetation productivity in China’s arid and semi-arid areas, thereby offering a vital theoretical foundation for improving predictions of terrestrial carbon sink dynamics under future climate change scenarios. Full article
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21 pages, 262 KiB  
Article
Sustainability in Boreal Forests: Does Elevated CO2 Increase Wood Volume?
by Nyonho Oh, Eric C. Davis and Brent Sohngen
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7017; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157017 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 171
Abstract
While boreal forests constitute 30% of the Earth’s forested area and are responsible for 20% of the global carbon sink, there is considerable concern about their sustainability. This paper focuses on the role of elevated CO2, examining whether wood volume in [...] Read more.
While boreal forests constitute 30% of the Earth’s forested area and are responsible for 20% of the global carbon sink, there is considerable concern about their sustainability. This paper focuses on the role of elevated CO2, examining whether wood volume in these forests has responded to increased CO2 over the last 60 years. To accomplish this, we use a rich set of wood volume measurement data from the Province of Alberta, Canada, and deploy quasi-experimental techniques to determine the effect of elevated CO2. While the few experimental studies that have examined boreal forests have found almost no effect of elevated CO2, our results indicate that a 1.0% increase in lifetime exposure to CO2 leads to a 1.1% increase in aboveground wood volume in these boreal forests. This study showcases the value of research designs that use natural settings to better account for the effects of prolonged exposure to elevated CO2. Our results should enable improved delineation of the drivers of historical changes in wood volume and carbon storage in boreal forests. In addition, when combined with other studies, these results will likely aid policymakers in designing management or policy approaches that will enhance the sustainability of forests in boreal regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air, Climate Change and Sustainability)
21 pages, 3013 KiB  
Article
Determining Early Warning Thresholds to Detect Tree Mortality Risk in a Southeastern U.S. Bottomland Hardwood Wetland
by Maricar Aguilos, Jiayin Zhang, Miko Lorenzo Belgado, Ge Sun, Steve McNulty and John King
Forests 2025, 16(8), 1255; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16081255 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 208
Abstract
Prolonged inundations are altering coastal forest ecosystems of the southeastern US, causing extensive tree die-offs and the development of ghost forests. This hydrological stressor also alters carbon fluxes, threatening the stability of coastal carbon sinks. This study was conducted to investigate the interactions [...] Read more.
Prolonged inundations are altering coastal forest ecosystems of the southeastern US, causing extensive tree die-offs and the development of ghost forests. This hydrological stressor also alters carbon fluxes, threatening the stability of coastal carbon sinks. This study was conducted to investigate the interactions between hydrological drivers and ecosystem responses by analyzing daily eddy covariance flux data from a wetland forest in North Carolina, USA, spanning 2009–2019. We analyzed temporal patterns of net ecosystem exchange (NEE), gross primary productivity (GPP), and ecosystem respiration (RE) under both flooded and non-flooded conditions and evaluated their relationships with observed tree mortality. Generalized Additive Modeling (GAM) revealed that groundwater table depth (GWT), leaf area index (LAI), NEE, and net radiation (Rn) were key predictors of mortality transitions (R2 = 0.98). Elevated GWT induces root anoxia; declining LAI reduces productivity; elevated NEE signals physiological breakdown; and higher Rn may amplify evapotranspiration stress. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed critical early warning thresholds for tree mortality: GWT = 2.23 cm, LAI = 2.99, NEE = 1.27 g C m−2 d−1, and Rn = 167.54 W m−2. These values offer a basis for forecasting forest mortality risk and guiding early warning systems. Our findings highlight the dominant role of hydrological variability in ecosystem degradation and offer a threshold-based framework for early detection of mortality risks. This approach provides insights into managing coastal forest resilience amid accelerating sea level rise. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water and Carbon Cycles and Their Coupling in Forest)
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18 pages, 2238 KiB  
Article
Dispersal Patterns of Euphydryas aurinia provincialis (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) in the Colfiorito Highlands, Central Italy
by Andrea Brusaferro, Silvia Marinsalti, Federico Maria Tardella, Emilio Insom and Antonietta La Terza
Environments 2025, 12(8), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12080263 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 187
Abstract
We investigated the dispersal ability of Euphydryas aurinia provincialis in a local-scale analysis within a single habitat patch of the Colfiorito highlands metapopulation. Our findings indicate that inside a single node, the organization of nesting patches can be conceptualized as a metapopulation itself, [...] Read more.
We investigated the dispersal ability of Euphydryas aurinia provincialis in a local-scale analysis within a single habitat patch of the Colfiorito highlands metapopulation. Our findings indicate that inside a single node, the organization of nesting patches can be conceptualized as a metapopulation itself, where reproductive sites, despite their spatial proximity, can act as either source or sink habitats depending on environmental conditions. We conducted fieldwork in six nesting patches inside a single node, capturing, marking, and recapturing individuals to assess their spatial distribution and movement tendencies at a large landscape scale. We found a high degree of site fidelity among individuals, with many recaptures occurring within the original marking site, but also a sex-based difference in movement patterns; females dispersed farther than males, likely driven by reproductive strategies, while males remained more localized, prioritizing mate-searching. Our findings suggest a complex dynamic in habitat connectivity: pastures and abandoned fields, despite being open, seem to act like sink areas, while breeding sites with shrub and tree cover act as source habitats, offering optimal conditions for reproduction. Individuals, especially females, from these source areas were later compelled to disperse into open habitats, highlighting a nuanced interaction between landscape structure and population dynamics. These results highlight the importance of maintaining habitat corridors to support metapopulation dynamics and prevent genetic isolation; the abandonment of traditional grazing practices is leading to the rapid closure of these source habitats, posing a severe risk of local extinction. Conservation efforts should prioritize the preservation of these source habitats to ensure the long-term viability of E. a. provincialis populations in fragmented landscapes. Full article
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24 pages, 12938 KiB  
Article
Spatial Distribution of Mangrove Forest Carbon Stocks in Marismas Nacionales, Mexico: Contributions to Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation
by Carlos Troche-Souza, Edgar Villeda-Chávez, Berenice Vázquez-Balderas, Samuel Velázquez-Salazar, Víctor Hugo Vázquez-Morán, Oscar Gerardo Rosas-Aceves and Francisco Flores-de-Santiago
Forests 2025, 16(8), 1224; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16081224 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 679
Abstract
Mangrove forests are widely recognized for their effectiveness as carbon sinks and serve as critical ecosystems for mitigating the effects of climate change. Current research lacks comprehensive, large-scale carbon storage datasets for wetland ecosystems, particularly across Mexico and other understudied regions worldwide. Therefore, [...] Read more.
Mangrove forests are widely recognized for their effectiveness as carbon sinks and serve as critical ecosystems for mitigating the effects of climate change. Current research lacks comprehensive, large-scale carbon storage datasets for wetland ecosystems, particularly across Mexico and other understudied regions worldwide. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop a high spatial resolution map of carbon stocks, encompassing both aboveground and belowground components, within the Marismas Nacionales system, which is the largest mangrove complex in northeastern Pacific Mexico. Our approach integrates primary field data collected during 2023–2024 and incorporates some historical plot measurements (2011–present) to enhance spatial coverage. These were combined with contemporary remote sensing data, including Sentinel-1, Sentinel-2, and LiDAR, analyzed using Random Forest algorithms. Our spatial models achieved strong predictive accuracy (R2 = 0.94–0.95), effectively resolving fine-scale variations driven by canopy structure, hydrologic regime, and spectral heterogeneity. The application of Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA) revealed the presence of carbon “hotspots,” which encompass 33% of the total area but contribute to 46% of the overall carbon stocks, amounting to 21.5 Tg C. Notably, elevated concentrations of carbon stocks are observed in the central regions, including the Agua Brava Lagoon and at the southern portion of the study area, where pristine mangrove stands thrive. Also, our analysis reveals that 74.6% of these carbon hotspots fall within existing protected areas, demonstrating relatively effective—though incomplete—conservation coverage across the Marismas Nacionales wetlands. We further identified important cold spots and ecotones that represent priority areas for rehabilitation and adaptive management. These findings establish a transferable framework for enhancing national carbon accounting while advancing nature-based solutions that support both climate mitigation and adaptation goals. Full article
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22 pages, 11876 KiB  
Article
Revealing Ecosystem Carbon Sequestration Service Flows Through the Meta-Coupling Framework: Evidence from Henan Province and the Surrounding Regions in China
by Wenfeng Ji, Siyuan Liu, Yi Yang, Mengxue Liu, Hejie Wei and Ling Li
Land 2025, 14(8), 1522; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14081522 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 242
Abstract
Research on ecosystem carbon sequestration services and ecological compensation is crucial for advancing carbon neutrality. As a public good, ecosystem carbon sequestration services inherently lead to externalities. Therefore, it is essential to consider externalities in the flow of sequestration services. However, few studies [...] Read more.
Research on ecosystem carbon sequestration services and ecological compensation is crucial for advancing carbon neutrality. As a public good, ecosystem carbon sequestration services inherently lead to externalities. Therefore, it is essential to consider externalities in the flow of sequestration services. However, few studies have examined intra- and inter-regional ecosystem carbon sequestration flows, making regional ecosystem carbon sequestration flows less comprehensive. Against this background, the research objectives of this paper are as follows. The flow of carbon sequestration services between Henan Province and out-of-province regions is studied. In addition, this study clarifies the beneficiary and supply areas of carbon sink services in Henan Province and the neighboring regions at the prefecture-level city scale to obtain a more systematic, comprehensive, and actual flow of carbon sequestration services for scientific and effective eco-compensation and to promote regional synergistic emission reductions. The research methodologies used in this paper are as follows. First, this study adopts a meta-coupling framework, designating Henan Province as the focal system, the Central Urban Agglomeration as the adjacent system, and eight surrounding provinces as remote systems. Regional carbon sequestration was assessed using net primary productivity (NEP), while carbon emissions were evaluated based on per capita carbon emissions and population density. A carbon balance analysis integrated carbon sequestration and emissions. Hotspot analysis identified areas of carbon sequestration service supply and associated benefits. Ecological radiation force formulas were used to quantify service flows, and compensation values were estimated considering the government’s payment capacity and willingness. A three-dimensional evaluation system—incorporating technology, talent, and fiscal capacity—was developed to propose a diversified ecological compensation scheme by comparing supply and beneficiary areas. By modeling the ecosystem carbon sequestration service flow, the main results of this paper are as follows: (1) Within Henan Province, Luoyang and Nanyang provided 521,300 tons and 515,600 tons of carbon sinks to eight cities (e.g., Jiaozuo, Zhengzhou, and Kaifeng), warranting an ecological compensation of CNY 262.817 million and CNY 263.259 million, respectively. (2) Henan exported 3.0739 million tons of carbon sinks to external provinces, corresponding to a compensation value of CNY 1756.079 million. Conversely, regions such as Changzhi, Xiangyang, and Jinzhong contributed 657,200 tons of carbon sinks to Henan, requiring a compensation of CNY 189.921 million. (3) Henan thus achieved a net ecological compensation of CNY 1566.158 million through carbon sink flows. (4) In addition to monetary compensation, beneficiary areas may also contribute through technology transfer, financial investment, and talent support. The findings support the following conclusions: (1) it is necessary to consider the externalities of ecosystem services, and (2) the meta-coupling framework enables a comprehensive assessment of carbon sequestration service flows, providing actionable insights for improving ecosystem governance in Henan Province and comparable regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land Resource Assessment (Second Edition))
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28 pages, 7506 KiB  
Article
Impact of Plateau Grassland Degradation on Ecological Suitability: Revealing Degradation Mechanisms and Dividing Potential Suitable Areas with Multi Criteria Models
by Yi Chai, Lin Xu, Yong Xu, Kun Yang, Rao Zhu, Rui Zhang and Xiaxing Li
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(15), 2539; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17152539 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 309
Abstract
The Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau (QTP), often referred to as the “Third Pole” of the world, harbors alpine grassland ecosystems that play an essential role as global carbon sinks, helping to mitigate the pace of climate change. Nonetheless, alterations in natural environmental conditions coupled with [...] Read more.
The Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau (QTP), often referred to as the “Third Pole” of the world, harbors alpine grassland ecosystems that play an essential role as global carbon sinks, helping to mitigate the pace of climate change. Nonetheless, alterations in natural environmental conditions coupled with escalating human activities have disrupted the seasonal growth cycles of grasslands, thereby intensifying degradation processes. To date, the key drivers and lifecycle dynamics of Grassland Depletion across the QTP remain contentious, limiting our comprehension of its ecological repercussions and regulatory mechanisms. This study comprehensively investigates grassland degradation on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau, analyzing its drivers and changes in ecological suitability during the growing season. By integrating natural factors (e.g., precipitation and temperature) and anthropogenic influences (e.g., population density and grazing intensity), it examines observational data from over 160 monitoring stations collected between the 1980s and 2020. The findings reveal three distinct phases of grassland degradation: an acute degradation phase in 1990 (GDI, Grassland Degradation Index = 2.53), a partial recovery phase from 1996 to 2005 (GDI < 2.0) during which the proportion of degraded grassland decreased from 71.85% in 1990 to 51.22% in 2005, and a renewed intensification of degradation after 2006 (GDI > 2.0), with degraded grassland areas reaching 56.39% by 2020. Among the influencing variables, precipitation emerged as the most significant driver, interacting closely with anthropogenic factors such as grazing practices and population distribution. Specifically, the combined impacts of precipitation with population density, grazing pressure, and elevation were particularly notable, yielding interaction q-values of 0.796, 0.767, and 0.752, respectively. Our findings reveal that while grasslands exhibit superior carbon sink potential relative to forests, their productivity and ecological functionality are undergoing considerable declines due to the compounded effects of multiple interacting factors. Consequently, the spatial distribution of ecologically suitable zones has contracted significantly, with the remaining high-suitability regions concentrating in the “twin-star” zones of Baingoin and Zanda grasslands, areas recognized as focal points for future ecosystem preservation. Furthermore, the effects of climate change and intensifying anthropogenic activity have driven the reduction in highly suitable grassland areas, shrinking from 41,232 km2 in 1990 to 24,485 km2 by 2020, with projections indicating a further decrease to only 2844 km2 by 2060. This study sheds light on the intricate mechanisms behind Grassland Depletion, providing essential guidance for conservation efforts and ecological restoration on the QTP. Moreover, it offers theoretical underpinnings to support China’s carbon neutrality and peak carbon emission goals. Full article
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17 pages, 2818 KiB  
Article
Carbon Density Change Characteristics and Driving Factors During the Natural Succession of Forests on Xinglong Mountain in the Transition Zone Between the Qinghai–Tibet and Loess Plateaus
by Wenzhen Zong, Zhengni Chen, Quanlin Ma, Lei Ling and Yiming Zhong
Atmosphere 2025, 16(7), 890; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16070890 - 20 Jul 2025
Viewed by 208
Abstract
The transition zone between the Qinghai–Tibet and Loess Plateaus is an important ecological functional area and carbon (C) reservoir in China. Studying the main drivers of C density changes in forest ecosystems is crucial to enhance the C sink potential of those ecosystems [...] Read more.
The transition zone between the Qinghai–Tibet and Loess Plateaus is an important ecological functional area and carbon (C) reservoir in China. Studying the main drivers of C density changes in forest ecosystems is crucial to enhance the C sink potential of those ecosystems in ecologically fragile regions. In this study, four stand types at different succession stages in the transition zone of Xinglong Mountain were selected as the study objective. The C densities of the ecosystem, vegetation, plant debris, and soil of each stand type were estimated, and the related driving factors were quantified. The results showed that the forest ecosystem C density continuously increased significantly with natural succession (381.23 Mg/hm2 to 466.88 Mg/hm2), indicating that the ecosystem has a high potential for C sequestration with progressive forest succession. The increase in ecosystem C density was mainly contributed to by the vegetation C density, which was jointly affected by the vegetation characteristics (C sink, mean diameter at breast height, mean tree height), litter C/N (nitrogen), and surface soil C/N, with factors explaining 95.1% of the variation in vegetation C density, while the net effect of vegetation characteristics was the strongest (13.9%). Overall, this study provides a new insight for understanding the C cycle mechanism in ecologically fragile areas and further improves the theoretical framework for understanding the C sink function of forest ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biosphere/Hydrosphere/Land–Atmosphere Interactions)
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20 pages, 4598 KiB  
Article
Risk Evaluation of Agricultural Non-Point Source Pollution in Typical Hilly and Mountainous Areas: A Case Study of Yongchuan District, Chongqing City, China
by Yanrong Lu, Guoying Dong, Rongjin Yang, Meiying Sun, Le Zhang, Yuying Zhang, Yitong Yin and Xiuhong Li
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(14), 2525; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17142525 - 20 Jul 2025
Viewed by 297
Abstract
While significant progress has been made in controlling point source pollution, agricultural non-point source pollution (AGNPSP) has emerged as a major contributor to global water pollution, posing a severe threat to ecological quality. According to China’s Second National Pollution Source Census, AGNPSP constitutes [...] Read more.
While significant progress has been made in controlling point source pollution, agricultural non-point source pollution (AGNPSP) has emerged as a major contributor to global water pollution, posing a severe threat to ecological quality. According to China’s Second National Pollution Source Census, AGNPSP constitutes a substantial proportion of water pollution, making its mitigation a critical challenge. Identifying AGNPSP risk zones is essential for targeted management and effective intervention. This study focuses on Yongchuan District, a representative hilly–mountainous area in the Yangtze River Basin. Applying the landscape ecology “source–sink” theory, we selected seven natural factors influencing AGNPSP and constructed a minimum cumulative resistance model using remote sensing post-processing data. An attempt was made to classify the “source” and “sink” landscapes, and ultimately conduct a risk assessment of AGNPSP in Yongchuan District, identifying the key areas for AGNPSP control. Key findings include: 1. Vegetation coverage is the most significant natural factor affecting AGNPSP. 2. Extremely high- and high-risk zones cover 90% of Yongchuan, primarily concentrated in the central and southern regions, indicating severe AGNPSP pressure that demands urgent management. 3. The levels of ammonia nitrogen and total phosphorus in the typical sections are related to the risk levels of the corresponding sections. Consequently, the risk level of AGNPSP directly correlates with the pollutant concentrations measured in the sections. This study provides a robust scientific basis for AGNPSP risk assessment and targeted control strategies, offering valuable insights for pollution management in Yongchuan and similar regions. Full article
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26 pages, 3149 KiB  
Article
The Spatiotemporal Impact of Socio-Economic Factors on Carbon Sink Value: A Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression Analysis at the County Level from 2000 to 2020 in China’s Fujian Province
by Tao Wang and Qi Liang
Land 2025, 14(7), 1479; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14071479 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 323
Abstract
Evaluating the economic value of carbon sinks is fundamental to advancing carbon market mechanisms and supporting sustainable regional development. This study focuses on Fujian Province in China, aiming to assess the spatiotemporal evolution of carbon sink value and analyze the influence of socio-economic [...] Read more.
Evaluating the economic value of carbon sinks is fundamental to advancing carbon market mechanisms and supporting sustainable regional development. This study focuses on Fujian Province in China, aiming to assess the spatiotemporal evolution of carbon sink value and analyze the influence of socio-economic drivers. Carbon sink values from 2000 to 2020 were estimated using Net Ecosystem Productivity (NEP) simulation combined with the carbon market valuation method. Eleven socio-economic variables were selected through correlation and multicollinearity testing, and their impacts were examined using Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression (GTWR) at the county level. The results indicate that the total carbon sink value in Fujian declined from CNY 3.212 billion in 2000 to CNY 2.837 billion in 2020, showing a spatial pattern of higher values in the southern region and lower values in the north. GTWR analysis reveals spatiotemporal heterogeneity in the effects of socio-economic factors. For example, the influence of urbanization and retail sales of consumer goods shifts direction over time, while the effects of industrial structure, population, road, and fixed asset investment vary across space. This study emphasizes the necessity of incorporating spatial and temporal dynamics into carbon sink valuation. The findings suggest that northern areas of Fujian should prioritize ecological restoration, rapidly urbanizing regions should adopt green development strategies, and counties guided by investment and consumption should focus on sustainable development pathways to maintain and enhance carbon sink capacity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Land Use, Impact Assessment and Sustainability)
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22 pages, 8509 KiB  
Article
The Spatial Distribution and Risk Assessment of Nutrient Elements and Heavy Metal Pollution in Sediments: A Case Study of a Typical Urban Lake in the Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River
by Ji Li, Menglu Zhu, Yong Zhang, Jun Zhang, Jiang Du, Yifan Wu, Zhaocai Zeng, Quan Sun, Hongxuan Li, Lei Zhang, Yajie Zheng and Bolin Li
Water 2025, 17(14), 2094; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17142094 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 291
Abstract
The ecological environment of urban lakes affected by human activities is deteriorating rapidly. As a source and sink of pollutants in the lake environment, sediments have become the focus of environmental assessments. At present, most of the studies only conduct pollution assessments on [...] Read more.
The ecological environment of urban lakes affected by human activities is deteriorating rapidly. As a source and sink of pollutants in the lake environment, sediments have become the focus of environmental assessments. At present, most of the studies only conduct pollution assessments on surface sediments. In this study, taking the typical urban lakes GanTang Lake and NanMen Lake (G&N Lake) as the background, not only is the planar spatial distribution of their nutrient elements, seven kinds of heavy metals, and As analyzed in detail, but risk assessments are also carried out on the pollution conditions at different depths. The causes of pollution at different depths are analyzed. It is found that in this lake, with the increase in depth, the pollution situation decreases slightly, but the pollution of nutrient elements is severe. There is severe pollution of nutrient elements at a depth of up to 1 m in the whole lake sediment. In the sediments with a depth of up to 1 m, more than 90% of the areas in the whole lake are at or above the moderate pollution level of Hg, and more than 70% of the areas are under slight pollution of Cd, resulting in the ecological risk level of the whole lake being at or above the high-risk level. Urban lake sediment management is inherently complex, driven by multifaceted factors where intensive anthropogenic activities constitute the primary pollution source. This research provides insights to guide restoration strategies and sustainable development policies for lacustrine ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Water Quality and Contamination)
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16 pages, 7005 KiB  
Article
A Biomimetic Microchannel Heat Sink for Enhanced Thermal Performance in Chip Cooling
by Kaichen Wang, Yan Shi, Junjie Chen and Yuchi Dai
Biomimetics 2025, 10(7), 459; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10070459 - 12 Jul 2025
Viewed by 470
Abstract
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence continuously increases the demand for high computing power, leading to substantial rises in chip power consumption and heat generation. As a result, efficient thermal management has become essential. Inspired by the placoid scales on shark skin, we [...] Read more.
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence continuously increases the demand for high computing power, leading to substantial rises in chip power consumption and heat generation. As a result, efficient thermal management has become essential. Inspired by the placoid scales on shark skin, we designed a bionic microchannel heat sink by introducing biomimetic structures on the inner channel surfaces to enhance heat dissipation. Numerical simulations are performed to investigate thermal behavior under different structural configurations. The results show that the arrangement, number, and inclination angle of the placoid structures significantly influence heat transfer by modifying flow patterns, enlarging the heat transfer area, and altering the thermal boundary layer. Notably, at a flow velocity of 2 m/s, the cooling performance differs significantly between inclination angles of 0° and 17°. Moreover, the influence of different quantities of placoid structures shows a consistent trend across various flow rates. These findings demonstrate that bionic surface structures can effectively improve the thermal performance of microchannel heat sinks, offering a promising strategy for high-performance chip cooling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological and Bioinspired Materials and Structures: 2nd Edition)
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19 pages, 13316 KiB  
Article
Mapping of Closed Depressions in Karst Terrains: A GIS-Based Delineation of Endorheic Catchments in the Alburni Massif (Southern Apennine, Italy)
by Libera Esposito, Guido Leone, Michele Ginolfi, Saman Abbasi Chenari and Francesco Fiorillo
Hydrology 2025, 12(7), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology12070186 - 10 Jul 2025
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Abstract
A deep interaction between groundwater and surface hydrology characterizes karst environments. These settings feature closed depressions, whose hydrological role varies depending on whether they have genetic and hydraulic relationships with overland–subsurface flow (epigenic) or deep groundwater circulation (hypogenic). Epigenic dolines and poljes are [...] Read more.
A deep interaction between groundwater and surface hydrology characterizes karst environments. These settings feature closed depressions, whose hydrological role varies depending on whether they have genetic and hydraulic relationships with overland–subsurface flow (epigenic) or deep groundwater circulation (hypogenic). Epigenic dolines and poljes are among the diagnostic landforms of karst terrains. In this study, we applied a hydrological criterion to map closed depressions—including dolines—across the Alburni karst massif, in southern Italy. A GIS-based, semi-automatic approach was employed, combining the sink-filling method (applied to a 5 m DEM) with the visual interpretation of various informative layers. This process produced a raster representing the location and depth of karst closed depressions. This raster was then used to automatically delineate endorheic areas using classic GIS tools. The resulting map reveals a thousand dolines and hundreds of adjacent endorheic areas. Endorheic areas form a complex mosaic across the massif, a feature that had been poorly emphasized in previous works. The main morphometric features of the dolines and endorheic areas were statistically analyzed and compared with the structural characteristics of the massif. The results of the proposed mapping approach provide valuable insights for groundwater management, karst area protection, recharge modeling, and tracer test planning. Full article
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