A geographic identification of sustainable development obstacles and countermeasures in drylands: A case study in Inner Mongolia, China

Drylands cover about 41% of the Earth’s land surface and are inhabited by more than two billion people, who rely on diversified ecosystem services provided drylands for their livelihoods. Achieving sustainable livelihoods (SLs) is a key component achieving development goals set agenda in 2030. Although it has aroused extensive interest, research SLs at regional scale still limited. This paper aims to address this gap evaluating through geographic gradient aridity Inner Mongolia. A livelihood index (SLI) was developed using wide range indicators framework (SLF). The weight determined entropy method, characteristics spatial distribution SLI were analyzed. results showed that varies greatly across zones. In terms assets, dry sub-humid zone 15% higher arid zones, while, surprisingly, semi-arid zones found have most vulnerable (rather zones). reason management planning approaches necessary drylands. further detail, Moran’s I illustrated overall performance each league or city positive correlation, while local correlation Hinggan Chifeng hot spot areas Hohhot cold area. lack physical social capital an important obstacle SLs. Based analysis Mongolia, residents revealed. paper, we call integrated (i.e., focusing natural human capital) approach reflect nature tightly coupled socio-ecological systems.