Evaluation of eco-environmental carrying capacity based on the ecological index: A case study of the main urban area of Dezhou City

The evaluation of eco-environmental carrying capacity represents an important means of regional sustainable development, eco-environmental protection, and resource allocation optimization. Based on satellite remote sensing data, supplemented by field surveys, this study constructed an ecological index (EI) model by integrating the biological richness index (BRI), vegetation coverage index(VCI), water network denseness index(WNDI), land stress index(LSI), pollution load index(PLI), and comprehensive eco-environmental index. Using this model, this study evaluated the eco-environmental carrying capacity for the main urban area of Dezhou City in 2015 and 2020. The results indicate that the main urban area exhibited an EI value of 64.93 in 2015 and 66.27 in 2020, indicating a good eco-environmental condition. Specifically, from 2015 to 2020, the main urban area showed an overall upward trend in eco-environmental conditions, with the quality generally remaining good and no signs of excessive deterioration. However, some townships (streets) presented an eco-environmental decline, which warrants attention. This study can provide significant decision-making references and data support for the future urban development and eco-environmental protection of Dezhou City.