Environmental Changes in Western China Over the Last Century
Author Information
Author(s): Chen Huai, Yin Kaipu, Wang Haiyan, Zhong Shenxian, Wu Ning, Shi Fusun, Zhu Dan, Zhu Qiuan, Wang Weifeng, Ma Zhihai, Fang Xiuqin, Li Weizhong, Zhao Pengxiang, Peng Changhui
Primary Institution: Northwest Agriculture and Forest University
Hypothesis
How have environmental conditions in Western China changed over the past hundred years?
Conclusion
The study found significant warming trends and vegetation changes in Western China over the last century.
Supporting Evidence
- Temperature in Western China increased by 0.8 to 1.5°C over the last century.
- 39 out of 62 photo pairs indicated improved vegetation conditions.
- Urbanization has significantly transformed cities in Western China.
- Natural disasters like earthquakes have impacted forest cover.
Takeaway
This study looked at old and new photos of Western China to see how the environment has changed over the last 100 years, showing that it has gotten warmer and that plants have changed a lot.
Methodology
The study used repeat photography to compare historical photos taken by E.H. Wilson with new photos taken over a century later.
Limitations
The study only focused on 250 out of 1,056 old photos due to logistical challenges.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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