Analysis of Influencing Factors of Soil Erosion Changes Based on Structural Equation Model

Abstract

Soil erosion is a complex process influenced by both natural and human factors. Accurately assessing the temporal and spatial variations in soil erosion, along with thoroughly investigating the factors influencing these changes, is crucial for developing effective regional soil and water conservation strategies. Taking Jiangxi Province as the study area, this research employed the Chinese Soil Loss Equation model and structural equation modeling to evaluate the spatiotemporal variation in soil erosion and its influencing factors under the main land cover types from 2000 to 2020 (five-year intervals). It revealed the interaction paths among these factors and their direct and indirect effects on soil erosion. The findings indicate that soil erosion in Jiangxi Province initially decreased and then increased over the study period, with the rate of increase gradually slowing. Spatially, the region experienced overall improvement but with some local deterioration. The primary factors influencing soil erosion changes varied with land cover type and specific areas of change. For Jiangxi Province, changes in human activities were the predominant factor, followed by slope. These results provide a theoretical basis for formulating scientific soil and water conservation measures and optimizing land management strategies, thereby supporting regional environmental management and sustainable land use development.