Identification and spatial-temporal evolution of rural “production-living-ecological” space from the perspective of villagers’ behavior – A case study of Ertai Town, Zhangjiakou City

Abstract The accurate identification of rural “production-living-ecological” space (PLES) is of great significance for optimization of Chinese rural space. At present, there are some deficiencies in the research of rural PLES, such as: less consideration of the multifunctionality of space utilization, lack of objective investigation of the dominant functions of land-use types, and insufficient identification of PLES within rural residential areas. Therefore, a case study was conducted in Ertai Town, Zhangjiakou City, based on the methods of participatory mapping, semi-structured interviews, grading scoring and spatial analysis technologies. The results showed that the PLES of Ertai includes production space (PS), living space (LS), ecological space (ES), production-living space (PLS), production-ecological space (PES) and potential space (POS). During 1990–2016, the area of PS, LS, ES and PLS increased significantly with the conversion area dominated by transfer-in area. But the PES had the largest reduction area which was frequently converted to any other space. The combined effects of factors such as economy, policies, and villager’s characteristics led villagers to adjust their space utilization modes, thereby promoting the evolution of rural PLES. Research indicates that the Zhangbei government must scientifically determine the agricultural planting structure, improve the livability of LS and effectively protect grassland resources.