Analysis of the Interrelationships and Drivers of Ecosystem Services in the Heihe River Basin

The preservation and enhancement of ecosystem services are essential for maintaining ecological balance and sustainable growth. The Heihe River Basin (HRB) is important for ecological security in Northwest China, yet is a fragile ecological environment. Understanding the dynamics and evolution of ESs is vital for balancing resource exploitation, socioeconomic development, and ecological protection. Using the InVEST model, we calculated water yield, habitat quality, and carbon stock in the HRB during 2000–2020 and examined shifts in ecosystem services. Trade-offs and synergies among ESs were assessed using GeoDa and key drivers were identified through the geodetector model. The spatial distribution of water yield, habitat quality, and carbon storage varied significantly, with high values concentrated in the upstream Qilian Mountains and low values in the downstream desert areas. High carbon storage clusters were stable, high water yield clusters increased and subsequently decreased, and high habitat quality clusters fluctuated. Carbon storage, water yield, and habitat quality exhibited a synergistic relationship. Climate and topography, particularly vapor emissions and elevation, were the primary factors influencing ESs, while socioeconomic factors had a lesser impact. These findings provide valuable insights for sustainable ecosystem management and conservation in the HRB and other arid inland watershed regions.