Ecological Policies Dominated the Ecological Restoration over the Core Regions of Kubuqi Desert in Recent Decades

Climate change and human activities significantly affected environmental changes in drylands. However, the relative roles remain unclear regarding these factors’ effects on environment Herein, we analyzed vegetation trends using remote-sensing datasets to determine interactions of vegetation, climate, anthropogenic an arid region China, Kubuqi Desert. Our study showed that 67.64% pixels fractional coverage (FVC) increased 2020 comparison with those 1986. The FVC exhibited a significant greening trend (0.0011/yr, p < 0.05) 1986–2020 as whole. This revealed two distinct periods separated by turning point 2001. There was no clear before 2001, then there dramatically since 2001 most regions area. increasing rate (0.0036/yr) later period three times higher than entire period. accelerated due variable compound climate activities. correlation between precipitation mainly positive, which outweighs negative temperature. both climatic factors cannot well explain dynamics, implying possible role for Generally, contributed 42.15% 57.85% overall variations 1986–2020. Specifically, vastly different periods. led dominant (58.68%) 1986–2001, while dominated (86.79%) driving recovery after Due massive ecological conservation programs such Grain Green Project launched substantial deserts have been transformed into grasslands forests. analysis highlights policies largely responsible restoration provides references protection sustainable development eco-fragile ecosystems.