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Harnessing Traditional Ecological Knowledge for Ecological Security Optimization in Karst Border Regions: A Case Study of Guangxi–Vietnam

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  • Mingkun Teng

    (School of Ethnology and Sociology, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
    Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas, Minzu University of China, National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Beijing 100081, China
    These authors have contributed equally to this work.)

  • Sizhao Liu

    (School of Ethnology and Sociology, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
    Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas, Minzu University of China, National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Beijing 100081, China
    Guangxi Subtropical Crops Research Institute, Nanning 530010, China
    These authors have contributed equally to this work.)

  • Wanzheng Cao

    (Guangxi Subtropical Crops Research Institute, Nanning 530010, China)

  • Changyin Huang

    (Guangxi Subtropical Crops Research Institute, Nanning 530010, China)

  • Yunfang Huang

    (Guangxi Subtropical Crops Research Institute, Nanning 530010, China)

  • Chunlin Long

    (Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas, Minzu University of China, National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Beijing 100081, China
    College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
    Institute of National Security Studies, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China)

Abstract

This study focuses on the ecological security of the Guangxi–Vietnam karst border region, introducing an innovative framework that integrates traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) with modern GIS-based ecological modeling to promote sustainable development. Using remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), and ecological sensitivity assessments, this research identifies key ecological sources, corridors, pinch points, and barriers. Unlike conventional approaches that rely solely on biophysical indicators, this study incorporates TEK-derived ecological practices into ecological network optimization, ensuring that conservation strategies align with local knowledge and cultural sustainability. Ecological sensitivity was evaluated through indicators such as soil erosion, rocky desertification, and geological disaster risks to guide the optimization of ecological networks. TEK practices, including afforestation, rotational farming, and biodiversity conservation, were systematically integrated into the construction of an innovative “three axes, two belts, and six zones” ecological security pattern. The results revealed 55 ecological corridors, 80 ecological pinch points, and 14 ecological barriers, primarily located in areas with high human activity intensity. This study advances ecological security planning by demonstrating a replicable model for TEK-based conservation in transboundary karst landscapes. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern ecological methodologies, it enhances biodiversity conservation, ecosystem connectivity, and resilience. The proposed framework provides actionable insights for sustainable urban–rural coordination and ecological restoration in karst landscapes, contributing to the long-term sustainability of ecologically vulnerable and culturally diverse regions.

Suggested Citation

  • Mingkun Teng & Sizhao Liu & Wanzheng Cao & Changyin Huang & Yunfang Huang & Chunlin Long, 2025. "Harnessing Traditional Ecological Knowledge for Ecological Security Optimization in Karst Border Regions: A Case Study of Guangxi–Vietnam," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(7), pages 1-35, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:7:p:2858-:d:1618959
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Qiaoyin Zhang & Yan Wu & Zhiqiang Zhao, 2024. "Identification of Harbin Ecological Function Degradation Areas Based on Ecological Importance Assessment and Ecological Sensitivity," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(16), pages 1-17, August.
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