Spatiotemporal Evolution and Driving Forces of Land Use Patterns in Changde City, China (1995–2020)

This study aims to reveal the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics and driving mechanisms of land use patterns in Changde City, China, from 1995 to 2020, providing scientific support for the sustainable utilization of regional land resources and territorial spatial planning.By comprehensively applying various methods, including the land use dynamic degree model, transfer matrix, kernel density analysis, land use intensity composite index, and geographical detectors, the study analyzed the quantitative changes, spatial pattern evolution, and driving factors of land use types in Changde City.The results indicate that significant changes in land use types occurred during the study period, characterized by a gradual decrease in cropland and grassland areas, significant expansion of impervious surfaces, and relatively stable forest and water areas.Cropland was primarily converted into impervious surfaces, reflecting the profound impact of rapid urbanization and industrialization on land use patterns.Kernel density analysis revealed that the spatial distribution of cropland gradually expanded, while impervious surfaces expanded rapidly along transportation corridors and industrial parks, highlighting urban land expansion.Driving factor analysis demonstrated that socioeconomic factors were the dominant forces behind land use changes in Changde City, with population density, secondary industry output, and gross domestic product (GDP) having the most significant impact.Natural factors influenced land use patterns indirectly through interactions with socio-economic factors.The study highlights the dynamic balance between urbanization and ecological protection in Changde City and provides scientific recommendations for future land use planning and regional sustainable development.