Connecting regional landscapes by ecological networks in the Greater Pearl River Delta

Landscape degradation and habitat fragmentation present one of the most pressing environmental issues associated with human development and the overuse of resources. Ecological networks are claimed to be effective for maintaining and improving landscape connectivity. Although there have been several methods of designation (such as the target species method), the present study builds a regional ecological network via a landscape ecological approach for the purpose of enhancing and restoring landscape connectivity. Using ArcGIS overlay and least-cost path algorithms, the study integrated relevant environmental and socioeconomic data into GIS projects to find optimal solutions for establishing a regional ecological network to act as a framework for improving landscape connectivity. After the addition of riparian protection areas and stepping stones, the resulting landscape configuration map depicts a potential approach to regional ecological connectivity. Further studies are needed, such as integrating this regional nature protection conceptualization with the urban development land use framework.