Objective This study clarified the functional evolution patterns and ecological effects of “production-living-ecological” spaces in nature reserves of Xizang region, southwestern China to reconcile socio-economic development with ecological conservation, thereby providing decision-making support for optimizing spatial configurations.

Method Focusing on 11 national-level nature reserves in Xizang region, we established a “production-living-ecological” classification system and quantified functional transitions and ecological impacts using transfer matrices, dynamic degree, ecological quality indices, and ecological contribution rates.

Result (1) From 2000 to 2020, the evolution of “production-living-ecological” spaces in Xizang nature reserves was characterized by a reduction in ecological space and rapid expansion of living and production spaces. Among these periods, 2015–2020 was the most drastic phase, with a comprehensive dynamic degree of 0.26%. Spatial transformations were concentrated in reserves such as Qiangtang, Selincuo, and the black-necked crane nature reserve in the middle reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River Valley. (2) The eco-environmental quality index of Xizang nature reserves rose from 0.581 3 in 2000 to 0.589 4 in 2020, showing a spatial pattern of “higher in the east and lower in the west”. The area of improved regions was 2.3 times of degraded regions. (3) The eco-environmental effects of Xizang nature reserves exhibited significant regional differences. High-quality areas were concentrated in reserves including Riwoqe Red Deer, Markam Yunnan Snub-Nosed Monkey, Maidika Wetland, Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, and Zayü Cibagou. Medium and low-quality areas were mainly distributed in the Black-Necked Crane Nature Reserve in the middle reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River Valley, Selincuo Nature Reserve, northern Qiangtang, and southern Mount Qomolangma Nature Reserve.

Conclusion The eco-environmental quality of Xizang nature reserves presents a trend of “overall improvement with local deterioration”. The uncontrolled expansion of urban-rural living spaces and agricultural production is the key factor leading to local ecological degradation. In the future, we should strictly adhere to ecological protection red lines and development-construction boundaries, and continue to promote forest and grassland protection and construction projects. The research results can provide a reference for promoting regional ecological restoration and optimizing territorial spatial layout.