Optimization Strategies for the Development Pattern of Grain Cultivation in Shanxi Province Driven by 'Production-Ecology' Synergy

Achieving green and sustainable agricultural development while ensuring food security presents an urgent challenge. This paper uses Shanxi Province as a case study to quantify the spatial distribution of food production capacity and ecosystem quality based on remote sensing data at both raster and county scales. We propose a priority development strategy for grain cultivation driven by "production-ecology" synergy. The study reveals that: 1) grain production capacity is stronger in the eastern regions than in the west, while ecosystem quality is better in the south compared to the north. 2) 1.8% of the area is characterized by both high production capacity and ecosystem quality, primarily located in the valley regions of the Sanggan, Hutuo, Muma, and Fen River basins in the north, as well as in lower-altitude areas of the Taihang Mountains in the southeast. These regions are suitable for prioritizing the development of agrarian industries focused on ecological planting. 3) 6.5% of the area falls within regions where both production and ecological conditions are disadvantaged, mainly along the Yellow River in the northern and western areas. In these regions, excessive expansion of crop cultivation is not advisable under current ecological conditions, and ecological restoration should be prioritized. This study constructs an optimized framework for grain cultivation development driven by "production-ecology" synergy, recommending the promotion of ecological crop cultivation in areas such as Dingxiang, Shouyang, and Hongtong, thereby advancing ecological agriculture. The research provides a scientific basis and strategic guidance for the comprehensive planning of food production patterns and the development of high-quality ecological agriculture.