Evolution of urban green space carbon sinks and their value in the arid region of Northwest China

Abstract

The arid zone of northwestern China is a critical ecological functional area, where terrestrial ecosystems are extremely fragile and difficult to restore once degraded, with significant implications for the regional carbon balance. Urban green spaces play an essential role in carbon sequestration and air purification, making them important carbon sink carriers in arid environments. Taking Lanzhou City as a case study, this research analyzes the carbon sink capacity of cropland, woodland, grassland, wetland, park green space, and other urban green land types from 2000 to 2020, and explores the main factors influencing their evolution. The findings indicate that: (1) Lanzhou's green space was primarily composed of cropland and grassland. However, due to urbanization and the city’s unique valley-type topography, construction land expanded while cropland and grassland areas declined; (2) The total carbon sink decreased from 361,000 tons in 2000 to 354,100 tons in 2020. Nevertheless, the economic value of carbon sinks continued to increase due to the annual rise in carbon prices. Cropland remained the largest contributor to urban green space carbon sinks; and (3) In 2020, land use intensity had a negative effect on carbon sinks, with an impact significantly greater than that of industrial structure or economic development. This study provides a scientific basis for improving urban green space management and enhancing carbon sink capacity in arid urban regions, thereby supporting regional ecological security and sustainable development.

Keywords

Green space / carbon sink function / carbon sink value / influencing factors / Lanzhou

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