China's Key Ecosystems Face Decline, Urgent Action Needed for Conservation.
The study analyzed changes in ecosystems in key areas of China from 2000 to 2010. Different zones focused on water conservation, soil conservation, wind prevention, sand fixation, and biodiversity maintenance. In water conservation zones, forest and grassland decreased while water bodies and wetlands increased. Soil conservation zones saw a decrease in farmland but an increase in forest and grassland, leading to reduced soil erosion. Wind prevention zones showed a decrease in grassland but an increase in forest and farmland. Biodiversity maintenance zones saw a decrease in grassland and desert areas. Overall, efforts are needed to protect and improve ecosystems in these key areas to maintain their core services effectively.