Abstract:
Objective This paper discussed the spatio-temporal evolution characteristics and driving factors of settlements in Aba prefecture, so as to provide scientific references for the settlement optimization, ecological and environmental protection, as well as regional sustainable development in ecologically fragile areas like Northwestern Sichuan.
Method Based on 4 Landsat series images in Aba prefecture from 1990 to 2020, the google earth engine, nuclear density estimation method, spatial hotspot detection and geographic detectors were used for the analysis.
Result The results showed that the settlements of Aba prefecture had been expanding rapidly from 1990 to 2020, and the distinction between “cold” and “hot” areas was obvious, and the overall feature was characterized by “local aggregation and distribution along rivers”. The southeastern valley area was the high-value agglomeration center and the main “hot spot” of the settlements, with the fastest expansion rate. The annual average temperature, altitude and population were the most important factors affecting the size of the settlements.
Conclusion With the continuous socio-economic development, the restrictive effect of natural geographical conditions on the spatial distribution of settlements was gradually weakening.