Multi-scale analysis on eco-environmental quality patterns and associated driving factors: implications for the Henan section of the Yellow River Basin, China

Analyzing the spatiotemporal patterns and evolutionary dynamics within the ecological environment is vital for the sustainability of the Yellow River Basin. However, previous studies have not adequately addressed the scale effects on ecological environment patterns, which hampers the effective implementation of regional management strategies. This study aims to investigate the dynamic changes in eco-environmental quality within the Yellow River Basin of Henan Province since 1990, identifying patterns of variation in eco-environmental quality and its driving mechanisms across different spatial scales. Specifically, the Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI) and Moran's index were employed to quantify the spatiotemporal evolution of eco-environmental quality from 1990 to 2021. Spearman's correlation analysis and hierarchical partitioning analysis were then applied to reveal the driving mechanisms underlying these variations. The results indicate significant differences in the eco-environmental quality distribution patterns between the western and eastern parts of the Yellow River Basin (Henan section). From 1990 to 2021, the driving mechanisms of eco-environmental quality showed increasing scale dependency over time, with different driving factors exhibiting varying responses to scale changes. The outcomes of this study provide a scientific foundation for the sustainable development and ecological environment conservation of the Yellow River Basin, thereby providing guidance for policymakers to implement targeted conservation strategies.