Simulation of Vegetation NPP in Typical Arid Regions Based on the CASA Model and Quantification of Its Driving Factors

Gulinigaer Yisilayili, Baozhong He (), Yaning Song, Xuefeng Luo, Wen Yang and Yuqian Chen
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Gulinigaer Yisilayili: College of Geography and Remote Sensing Sciences, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
Baozhong He: College of Geography and Remote Sensing Sciences, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
Yaning Song: College of Geography and Remote Sensing Sciences, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
Xuefeng Luo: College of Geography and Remote Sensing Sciences, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
Wen Yang: College of Geography and Remote Sensing Sciences, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
Yuqian Chen: College of Geography and Remote Sensing Sciences, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China

Land, 2025, vol. 14, issue 2, 1-23

Abstract: To assess the carbon balance of terrestrial ecosystems, it is crucial to consider the net primary productivity (NPP) of vegetation. Understanding the response of NPP in Xinjiang’s vegetation to climate factors and human activities is essential for ecosystem management, the Belt and Road Initiative, and achieving carbon neutrality goals. Based on the CASA model, this study uses meteorological data, DEM data, and land cover data, employing trend analysis and partial derivative analysis methods to investigate the temporal trends and spatial distribution of NPP in Xinjiang from 2000 to 2020. Additionally, it quantifies the contributions of climate factors and human activities to NPP fluctuations. The key findings are: (1) The average annual NPP is 101.52 gC/m 2 , with an upward trend, showing an overall growth rate of 0.447 gC/m 2 /yr. Spatially, NPP is higher in northern Xinjiang than in the south, and in mountainous areas compared to basins. (2) Over 21 years, climate factors contributed an average of 1.054 gC/m 2 /yr, while human activities contributed 0.239 gC/m 2 /yr to NPP changes. Among climate factors, temperature, precipitation, and sunshine duration contributed 0.003, 0.169, and 0.588 gC/m 2 /yr, respectively, all showing positive effects on NPP. (3) Forests have the highest average NPP at 443.96 gC/m 2 , with an annual growth rate of 2.69 gC/m 2 /yr. When forest is converted to cropland, the net loss in NPP is −1.94 gC/m 2 , and the loss is even greater in conversion to grassland, reaching −17.33 gC/m 2 . (4) The changes in NPP are driven by both climate factors and human activities. NPP increased in 77.25% of the area, while it decreased in 22.69%. Climate factors have a greater positive impact than human activities.

Keywords: NPP; climate change; human activities; driving analysis; Xinjiang, China (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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