A Study of the Coupling Relationship Between Industry–Economy–Population and Habitat Quality in the Kuye River Basin

Socio-economic development accelerates the process of urbanization, but the rise in industry, economic growth and population agglomeration destroy biodiversity while promoting social progress, resulting in a decline in habitat quality and an increase in regional differences. Solving the contradiction between the social economy and ecological environment and improving the quality of regional habitats are matters of utmost importance. Based on land use and socio-economic data from 2000 to 2023, this study uses the InVEST model to explore the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics of habitat quality in the Kuye River Basin, establishes a comprehensive index system, and uses the entropy method and the coupling coordination degree model to measure the degree of coordinated development. The results show that from 2000 to 2023, the habitat quality of some areas in the Kuye River Basin decreased, the coupling degree of industry, economy, population and habitat quality increased in most counties, and individual areas showed an inverted “U”-type distribution. The overall degree of coupling coordination increased, indicating more coordination. This study draws a blueprint for the development of the Kuye River Basin and provides a scientific basis for ecological governance and civilization construction.