Evaluation of Agricultural Ecosystem Service Value in Arid and Semiarid Regions of Northwest China Based on the Equivalent Factor Method

ABSTRACT: A reasonable assessment of the value of ecosystem services is an effective measure to maintain the normal operation of the ecosystem and adjust the balance between economic development and the ecological environment. With the help of the related concepts of ecosystem services, this paper establishes an evaluation framework system and adopts the widely used and comprehensive evaluation method of equivalent factors, which is a rapid accounting tool used for the evaluation of ecosystem services. The value of agricultural ecosystem services was estimated from 2008 to 2017 in a typical arid-semiarid region, and nine ecosystem service functions were analyzed. Our research showed that from 2008 to 2017 the value of agricultural ecological services in Gansu Province increased annually, and the annual growth rate in 2012 was the highest (15%). The results showed that the selection of appropriate methods could quickly and effectively evaluate the value of agricultural ecosystem services. In-depth research on the function and value of agroecological services could better promote the sustainable development of agroecosystems and maintain the balance and integrity of ecological service functions. Evaluation of the balance and integrity of agricultural ecosystem ecological service functions in arid semi-arid regions will provide recommendations for land use and sustainable development and ecological environment protection in these regions. HIGHLIGHTS: • Agricultural ecosystem services have changed in an arid and semiarid region of China in recent decades. • We reflect the results of China's ecological progress. • This study provides advice on agricultural development of other developing countries.