Eco-exergy Evaluation of New Wetlands in the Yanzhou Coalfield Subsidence Areas Using Structural-Dynamic Modelling

This paper is a preliminary attempt to quantify the impact of coal mining subsidence on surface ecology. The Yanzhou coalfield of Shandong Province has a long history of longwall coal extraction and the resulting subsidence depressions has created new wetlands. To assess the ecosystem processes of these new wetlands, we determined their eco-exergy based on a structural dynamic method. We used Stella, a software that facilitates construction of structurally dynamic models, including the nutrient cycle, hydrological processes, and large aquatic plant factors. Following calibration and validation, the model was applied to two scenarios to show different trends. The ratio of zooplankton biomass to phytoplankton biomass, transparency in Secchi depth, eco-exergy, and structural eco-exergy were selected as indicators. Understanding eco-exergy can help protect an area’s ecological balance and achieve a sustainable use of water and soil resources.