Integration of land use resilience and efficiency in China: Analysis of spatial patterns, differential impacts on SDGs, and adaptive management strategies

Given the increasing internal and external risks, as well as the conflicting supply-demand dynamics of land resources, focusing solely on resilience or efficiency proved insufficient. To adapt to complex changes and address resource surpluses, this study quantified land use resilience (LUR) and land use efficiency (LUE) across 31 provinces in China. Their interconnected relationship was explored using the coupling coordination model. The analysis also assessed their varied responses to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) using the Pearson correlation coefficient model. Results showed that LUR in China increased from 0.2656 in 2000 to 0.3901 in 2022, while LUE rose from 0.7510 to 1.0845 during the same period. A positive correlation was observed between functional resistance and flow transformation in LUR and LUE. Furthermore, the LUR-LUE coupling coordination aligned more closely with the SDGs than models focusing solely on resilience or efficiency. LUR-LUE adaptive management optimization zones were categorized into six types: high-level synergy, high-level centrality, radiation-driven, radiation stagnation, radiation depression, and low-level solidification. These findings enhance our understanding of the dynamic nature of land use systems and support efforts toward high-quality, secure, and synergistic development.