Application of PCA integrated with CA and GIS in eco-economic regionalization of Chinese Loess Plateau

Eco-economic regionalization (EER) is to divide an area into geographical zones. Each zone is linked to the others based on the eco-economic similarity and disparity. In this study, models of EER of the Chinese Loess Plateau were constructed. Data on 22 selected indicators were gathered for the 282 administrative counties. Then they were analyzed through an approach of PCA integrated with CA and GIS. In the generated model, the plateau was assigned to 4 belts and 18 eco-economic zones. The relationship among the subdivisions was able to represent the real situation. It demonstrates the division scheme is very comprehensive, concise and applicable. The work has established a novel methodological framework for EER of large-scale area.

Research Highlights► In this study, models of Eco-economic regionalization (EER) were constructed. ► Chinese Loess plateau was assigned to 4 belts and then subdivided into 18 zones. ► The relationship among the subdivisions was able to represent the real situation. ► The division scheme is comprehensive, concise, applicable and effective. ► This work established a novel methodological framework for EER of large-scale area.