A framework for functional zoning assessment of national parks under multi-objective collaborative management: A case study of Kalamaili National Park in Xinjiang, China

National parks represent a country's most important natural landscapes, unique heritage sites, and areas of rich biodiversity within the natural ecosystem. Their primary function is to protect the authenticity and integrity of vital natural ecosystems while supporting scientific research, education, and recreation. The scientific delimitation of functional divisions in national parks and identification of suitable space for conservation and utilization is of great significance for achieving multi-objective collaborative management of national parks. We developed a functional zoning analysis method for national parks based on a multi-dimensional framework combining recreation value, habitat quality, and landscape vulnerability. Our innovative approach optimized the measurement of habitat quality and landscape vulnerability indices. Using Kalamaili National Park in Xinjiang as a case study, our comprehensive evaluation revealed that areas with high recreation value, landscape vulnerability, and habitat quality showed distinct spatial distribution patterns. High recreational value areas were primarily distributed in the southeast and southwest zones, covering approximately 1200 km2. High habitat quality areas were largely concentrated in the central region, encompassing roughly 2168.64 km2. Areas of high landscape vulnerability were found in the east and south, spanning about 3310.25 km2. Through spatial overlay analysis, we identified six functional clusters. According to these distribution patterns of functional clusters, we proposed planning recommendations for Kalamaili National Park's scientific development. The functional zoning assessment framework in this paper effectively identifies the functional combination and layout of national parks. It provides scientific evaluation methods and decision support for park management and sustainable development, helping promote the harmony between humans and nature.