Evaluation of development potential of candidate sites for forest therapy bases using a PEEST-InVEST framework: A case study of Songxi, China

Abstract

Diagnosing the structural imbalance between ecological assets and operational capacity is essential for reconciling wellness tourism with conservation at the micro-county scale. This study evaluates seven candidate sites in Songxi County, China, using an integrated PEEST-InVEST framework. Forest therapy potential is quantified by coupling InVEST-derived habitat metrics with a hybrid AHP-Entropy Weight-TOPSIS methodology. Results confirm an “Ecological Foundation” weighting, with the “Habitat Quality Index” (7.292%) as the primary driver. However, site ranking reveals a critical Resource-Performance Mismatch: top-tier suitability is achieved not by ecological supremacy, but through superior management and infrastructure. Analysis of obstacle factors delineates two constraint typologies: Service Lag (Type I) in lower-tier sites and Ecological Ceiling (Type II) in high-tier sites where the ecological substrate becomes the limiting “short board.” This finding elucidates the spatial decoupling of ecological supply from service capacity and advocates a paradigm shift toward a “Diagnose-Rank-Prescribe” model of precision management. Differentiated strategies are proposed, emphasizing active ecological restoration for mature sites to align natural capital with service capabilities. This study provides a replicable, quantitative framework for evidence-based planning of forest therapy bases globally.