Zoning of eco-protected areas in fast-growing regions based on game theory

In fast growing regions, zoning eco-protected areas has become important for ecological conservation and environmental management. Rapid and continuous urban expansion, however, may exert negative effects on the performance of... [ view full abstract ]

In fast growing regions, zoning eco-protected areas has become important for ecological conservation and environmental management. Rapid and continuous urban expansion, however, may exert negative effects on the performance of practical zoning designs. Various methods have been developed for protected area zoning, but most of them failed to consider the conflicts between urban development (for the benefit of land developers) and ecological protection (local government). Our study aims to address these problems based on a combined use of CA and game theory. Guangzhou, a rapidly urbanizing metropolis suffering from severe ecological issues in China, is selected as the study area. Game theory is a theory of decision-making that can mathematically analyze and simulate the conflicts between rational decision-makers. The ecological compensation mechanism was taken into account by simulating the negotiation processes between the government and land developers. A final zoning scheme can be obtained when the two sides reach agreements.