Recognition and zoning optimization of geographical spatial conflict in Wuhan metropolitan area based on multi-functional perspective

Identifying geographical spatial conflicts and optimizing development patterns are important prerequisites for eliminating the conflicts of geographical spatial conflict. The paper takes the Wuhan Metropolitan Area as an example. Using grid-scale data, we construct a multi-functional suitability evaluation index system for geographical space, starting from three dimensions: ecological protection, agricultural production and urban construction. The multi-index comprehensive evaluation method is used to measure the geographical spatial suitability level and identify the characteristics of geographical spatial conflict patterns. Three-dimensional Rubik's cube model is used to divide the space conflict types and optimize the partition. We found that the areas with suitable ecological protection functions and more suitable areas are mainly distributed near the waters and the Dabie Mountains and Mufu Mountains with relatively high altitude in Wuhan Metropolitan Area. Suitable areas for agricultural production functions are concentrated in the Jianghan Plain. Suitable areas for urban construction functions are concentrated around urban areas, established towns, and major transportation routes. Regions with high intensity of land and space conflicts are mainly located in the central and northwestern parts of the Wuhan Metropolitan Area. Regions with low levels of conflict are concentrated in the west, northeast, and southeast regions of the Wuhan Metropolitan Area. The degree of geographical spatial conflict in Wuhan Metropolitan Area can be divided into three primary zones and 12 secondary zones, which are intense conflict zone, general conflict zone, and weak conflict zone. Based on multi-functional perspective, identifying and analyzing the types of geographical spatial conflict will help locate the development direction of different conflict areas and provide theoretical and technical support for the optimization of geographical space.