Vegetation Dynamics and Influencing Mechanisms in Zhejiang Province, a Typical Subtropical Region of China

Abstract Vegetation cover plays a fundamental role in maintaining ecosystem structure and function. Understanding its spatial and temporal variability, along with its driving factors, is critical for advancing environmental studies. This research targets the subtropical Zhejiang region in southeastern China, utilizing MODIS-derived NDVI data covering 2001 to 2020. By integrating Sen’s slope estimator, Mann–Kendall trend analysis, spatial autocorrelation (Moran’s I), and the Geodetector framework, we assessed trends, patterns, and primary influencing factors of vegetation change. Our findings include: (1) A statistically significant upward trend in NDVI across 59.4% of the study area (Sen’s slope = 0.0025, p < 0.01), reflecting ongoing ecological improvement; (2) Notable spatial clustering of NDVI values, with high NDVI zones located in southwestern forested areas and low NDVI zones in expanding urban regions; (3) Elevation, slope, land use/cover, and nighttime lights were identified as major contributors to NDVI spatial variation, with notable interaction effects such as a nonlinear synergy between land use and light; (4) High-risk zones, associated with dense populations and intense urban development, coincided with lower NDVI values. These results deepen our understanding of vegetation dynamics in subtropical zones and provide insights for sustainable ecosystem and land management.