Objective This study aims to clarify the spatiotemporal evolution patterns of ecological quality in the Huaihai Economic Zone (2000—2020), reveal the main driving factors of ecological changes and their interaction mechanisms, and provide a scientific basis for regional ecological protection and land-use optimization. Methods Based on the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform, the remote sensing ecological index (RSEI) was constructed using moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) images at five time points during 2000—2020. Single-factor and interaction-factor detector models were applied to quantitatively analyze the characteristics of ecological quality changes, driving mechanisms, and the effects of land-use conversions. Results (1) Over the past two decades, ecological quality in the Huaihai Economic Zone has generally improved, with 75.89% of the area showing a significant increase in RSEI. The mean RSEI rose from 0.470 to 0.577, and its spatial distribution showed a significant positive correlation. However, 60.43% of the area still faced degradation risks. (2) Land use type, precipitation, and temperature were the main driving factors, and anthropogenic factors also had significant influences. Among them, the interactions between land use and precipitation had the highest explanatory power. (3) The mutual conversions between cropland and construction land dominated land-use changes, and rapid urbanization led to declines in local ecological quality. Conclusion The ecological quality of the Huaihai Economic Zone has generally improved, but regional differences are obvious. Land use changes and their interactions with climatic factors are the key mechanisms of ecological changes. It is necessary to strengthen intensive land use and ecological protection to realize the sustained improvement of regional ecosystems.
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