What Is an Ecosystem Model?

The ecosystem simulation model is an environmental impact analysis method proposed by Holling in 1978. By establishing a disturbed ecosystem model, environmental impact analysis is incorporated into the progress of the project and planning, and the environmental changes caused by the project are evaluated. This model reflects the changing trend of the ecosystem and was first used for the preliminary impact assessment of a large-scale hydropower project in Jayce Bay, Quebec, Canada. This ecosystem simulation model does not require a large amount of data and enables environmental impact analysis to be completed in a short period of time. It usually only considers a single environmental effect and requires simplified treatment of more complex ecosystems, so it is not as comprehensive as other methods. The ecosystem simulation model is particularly suitable for the research and evaluation of resource management strategies, and also plays a significant role in environmental impact assessment of engineering construction projects and multi-purpose land use planning.