Wetland restoration enhances ecological quality in urbanizing regions

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Rapid urbanization and climate change drive widespread wetland degradation, yet it remains unclear whether wetland restoration improves ecological quality (EQ), a composite indicator reflecting vegetation, thermal, hydrological, environmental, and soil conditions at regional scales in highly urbanized landscapes. Objectives This study aimed to quantify the spatiotemporal dynamics of wetland extent and EQ in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region, assess the contribution of wetland restoration to EQ improvement, and disentangle its effects from climatic, edaphic, topographic, and anthropogenic influences. Methods Using annual 30‐m Landsat‐based wetland maps and 500‐m EQ data (2001–2021), we quantified wetland dynamics and restoration effects using regression, spatial comparisons, and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Model. Results Areas with expanding wetland coverage showed improved EQ, with every 1% increase in wetland area corresponding to a 0.034 rise in EQ. Wetland restoration was especially effective in core areas, substantially enhancing local EQ. Although indirect effects of climate, soil, terrain, and human disturbance were detected, they did not weaken the positive relationship between wetland restoration and EQ improvement. Wetland loss was most pronounced in coastal and near‐coastal areas, and some regions lost wetlands completely. In contrast, inland areas exhibited a moderate increase in wetland coverage, with the average wetland fraction increasing by 2.18%. Notably, a shift in wetland dynamics was observed after 2015, with the previous declining trend reversing. Conclusions These findings highlighted the pivotal role of wetland restoration in enhancing EQ.