Analysis of land use change and its ecological environment effects in Wutai County, Shanxi Province

Based on the land use data of Wutai County, Shanxi Province, in 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2020, in this study calculates the land use transfer matrix and dynamic degree to analyze the dynamic changes of land use. By applying the ecological environment quality index and ecological contribution rate, the actual impacts of land use changes on ecological environment are quantitatively examined, and their specific effects are comprehensively discussed. The results indicate that the areas of forest land, construction land, and unused land showed an increasing trend, while the areas of cultivated land, grassland, and water bodies exhibited a gradual decline. Construction land continued to expand during 1990-2020, with particularly significant growth during 2000-2010, although the growth rate slowed in later periods. The comprehensive land use degree experienced the most pronounced changes during 2010-2020, reflecting the complexity and dynamics of land use. The ecological environment quality index in Wutai County showed a slight downward trend from 1990 to 2020, with a decrease of 0.97%, primarily influenced by pollutant emissions from urbanization and industrialization, as well as the imbalance between environmental protection and economic development.