Human–Land Coupling Relationship in Lushan National Park and Its Surrounding Areas: From an Integrated Ecological and Social Perspective

A significant increase in human activity intensity, rising from 6.02% to 16.41% over two decades, has been identified near Lushan National Park, with a spreading trend toward the core protected area. This study developed a four-quadrant model integrating human activity intensity (HAI) and landscape pattern index (LPI) to analyze spatial coupling characteristics from 2000 to 2020 in Lushan National Park and its surroundings (LNPSA). The findings reveal higher landscape fragmentation, diversity, and variation in the surrounding areas compared to the core park. Vegetation coverage and proximity to Lushan were found to be the most significant factors influencing this human-land relationship. Based on these insights, the study delineated four distinct zones—harmonious development, stable transformation, environmental regulation, and risk prevention—each requiring tailored optimization strategies. This research provides a comprehensive methodology for planning and managing natural protected areas under rapid urbanization.

Zhou, Z., Li, H., Li, J., Lu, Y., Gao, C., & Yang, D. (2024). Human–Land Coupling Relationship in Lushan National Park and Its Surrounding Areas: From an Integrated Ecological and Social Perspective. Land, 13(8), 1240. https://doi.org/10.3390/land13081240