Land | Editor’s choice Articles

61 pages, 28025 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Study on the Perception Evaluation of Public Spaces in Urban Historic Waterfront Areas Based on AHP–Cloud Modelling: The Case of the Xiaoqinhuai Riverside Area in Yangzhou

by Jizhou Chen, Xinyu Duan, Wanli Zhang, Xiaobin Li, Hao Feng, Ren Zhou and Rong Zhu

Land 2025, 14(12), 2402; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14122402 - 11 Dec 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2157

Abstract

With the acceleration of global urbanisation, the pace of evolution in urban waterfront areas has intensified, consequently hastening the renewal rate of their constituent public spaces. Compared to the macro-level planning and regulation of traditional port and coastal waterfronts, balancing the historical preservation [...] Read more.

With the acceleration of global urbanisation, the pace of evolution in urban waterfront areas has intensified, consequently hastening the renewal rate of their constituent public spaces. Compared to the macro-level planning and regulation of traditional port and coastal waterfronts, balancing the historical preservation of urban heritage waterfront public spaces with contemporary demands has emerged as a critical issue in urban regeneration. This study examines the historical waterfront area of the Xiaoqinhuai River in Yangzhou, establishing a public space perception evaluation framework encompassing five dimensions: spatial structure, landscape elements, environmental perception, socio-cultural context, and facility systems. This framework comprises 33 secondary indicators. The perception assessment system was developed through a literature review, field research, and expert interviews, refined using the Delphi method, and weighted via the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Finally, cloud modelling was employed to evaluate perceptions among residents and visitors. Findings indicate that spatial structure and socio-cultural dimensions received high perception ratings, highlighting historical layout and cultural identity as strengths of the Xiaoqinhuai Riverfront public space, while significant shortcomings were noted in terms of landscape elements, environmental perception, and facilities. These deficiencies manifest primarily in limited vegetation diversity, inadequate hard paving and surface materials, insufficient landscape node design, poor thermal comfort, suboptimal air quality and olfactory perception, uncomfortable resting facilities, limited activity diversity, and inadequate slip-resistant surfaces. Further analysis reveals perceptual differences between residents and visitors: the former prioritise daily living needs, while the latter emphasise cultural experiences and recreational facilities. Based on these findings, this paper proposes targeted optimisation strategies emphasising the continuity of historical context and enhancement of spatial inclusivity. It recommends improving public space quality through multi-dimensional measures including environmental perception enhancement, landscape system restructuring, and the tiered provision of facilities. This research offers an actionable theoretical framework and practical pathway for the protective renewal, public space reconstruction, and optimisation of contemporary urban historic waterfront areas, demonstrating broad transferability and applicability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Contemporary Waterfronts, What, Why and How?)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 688 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Study on the Impact of Land Transfer on Farmers’ Welfare: Theoretical and Empirical Evidence from China

by Zhituan Deng and Jiaojiao Kang

Land 2025, 14(12), 2384; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14122384 - 6 Dec 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1139

Abstract

The transfer of agricultural land has significant effects on farmers’ livelihoods and welfare. This study aims to explore the utility and obstacles of rural land transfer. The research found that in the process of agricultural transformation in developing countries, rural land transfer played [...] Read more.

The transfer of agricultural land has significant effects on farmers’ livelihoods and welfare. This study aims to explore the utility and obstacles of rural land transfer. The research found that in the process of agricultural transformation in developing countries, rural land transfer played a positive role in improving farmers’ welfare. Rural land transfer enables land lessors to obtain physical rent or implicit rent, which increases household income or enhances relationships with relatives and neighbors, generating a positive impact on farmers’ welfare. Land transfer was a comprehensive decision-making of households based on the optimal allocation of factor resources such as land, labor, and capital. Risks associated with land transfer and social security arrangements after transferring land rights have emerged as prominent obstacles. These factors tend to induce anxiety among land-leasing households regarding the livelihood risks their families might face post-transfer, thus making them hesitant and reluctant to engage in land transfer due to lingering concerns over both immediate and long-term interests. The welfare-enhancing effects of land transfer on farmers vary significantly depending on the local rural governance context, household’s social status within the community, and relative importance of internal family opinions in decision-making processes. This study demonstrates that the allocation of production factors should be examined within the overarching framework of urban–rural integration and provides empirical evidence and theoretical insights for central and local governments to refine relevant policy documents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Land Socio-Economic and Political Issues)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 6715 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Future Land Use and Cover Modeling in South Korea: Linking SSP-RCP with FLUS Model

by Seongil Han, Youngeun Kang, Hyeryeon Jo, Miyeon Ahn, Taelyn Kim and Seungwoo Son

Land 2025, 14(12), 2380; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14122380 - 5 Dec 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2964

Abstract

Accurate prediction of land use and land cover (LULC) change is essential for sustainable development and climate change adaptation planning. This study projects LULC changes across 17 administrative regions of South Korea from 2020 to 2050 using the Future Land Use Simulation (FLUS) [...] Read more.

Accurate prediction of land use and land cover (LULC) change is essential for sustainable development and climate change adaptation planning. This study projects LULC changes across 17 administrative regions of South Korea from 2020 to 2050 using the Future Land Use Simulation (FLUS) model under four integrated SSP-RCP scenarios: SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5. The model was calibrated with land cover data for 2000–2010 and validated against observations for 2010–2020 using socioeconomic variables together with CMIP6 climate projections. In practical terms, FLUS produces scenario-based maps of future land patterns that inform land regulation, infrastructure planning, and climate adaptation. Across all scenarios, urban areas expanded by 488,000–585,000 ha, mainly through the conversion of agricultural land, which accounted for 10–24% of transitions in high-growth regions. Agricultural land decreased by 124,000–174,000 ha, and forests declined by 473,000–572,000 ha. Transformation intensity peaked around 2030 and then slowed in later decades. Urban expansion was greatest under SSP5-8.5, followed by SSP3-7.0, SSP1-2.6, and SSP2-4.5. Gyeonggi Province exhibited the most pronounced spatial change, whereas Seoul showed limited additional growth consistent with its already saturated urban structure. Validation results indicated an overall accuracy range of 57–83% with metropolitan areas generally outperforming provincial regions. These findings reveal spatial and temporal hotspots of land cover change and provide region-specific information that can guide urban development, land and ecosystem management, climate adaptation policy, and progress toward carbon neutrality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Land Systems and Global Change)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

26 pages, 4376 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Spatiotemporal Mapping of Urban Flood Susceptibility: A Multi-Criteria GIS-Based Assessment in Nangarhar, Afghanistan

by Imtiaz Ahmad, Wang Ping, Sajid Ullah, Khadeijah Yahya Faqeih, Somayah Moshrif Alamri, Eman Rafi Alamery, Asma Abdulaziz Abdullah Abalkhail and Haji Muhammad Bilal Jan

Land 2025, 14(12), 2376; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14122376 - 4 Dec 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2082

Abstract

Urban Flooding is one of the most prevalent natural hazards worldwide, leading to substantial human and economic losses. Therefore, the assessment and mapping of flood hazard levels are essential for reducing the impact of future flood disasters. This study develops and integrates a [...] Read more.

Urban Flooding is one of the most prevalent natural hazards worldwide, leading to substantial human and economic losses. Therefore, the assessment and mapping of flood hazard levels are essential for reducing the impact of future flood disasters. This study develops and integrates a methodology to evaluate urban flood susceptibility in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan, a semi-arid region with limited prior research. Landsat imagery from 2004 to 2024 was used to analyze land use land cover change (LULCC), indicating that built-up areas increased from 124 to 180 km² in 2004 to 2024, respectively, while agricultural land decreased from 1978 km² to 1883 km² during the same period. Climate data exhibit increases in temperatures and intensifying rainfall, exacerbating flood hazards. Geospatial analysis of elevation, slope, drainage density, and proximity to water bodies highlights the high susceptibility of low-lying areas. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed to integrate diverse flood risk factors and produce accurate flood hazard maps. The findings show that very-high flood susceptibility zones expanded from 1537 to 1699 km² in 2004 to 2024, whereas low-susceptibility zones declined from 131 km² to 110 km². Socioeconomic indicators such as population density, built-up density, and education accessibility were also incorporated into the assessment. This study underscores the need for adaptive land use planning, resilient drainage systems, and community-based flood risk reduction strategies. The findings provide actionable insights for sustainable flood management and demonstrate the value of combining GIS, remote sensing, and multi-criteria analysis in data-scarce, conflict-affected regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Urban Flood Modeling: Exploring the Impacts of Land Use, Climate Change, and Green Infrastructure on Flood Risks and Mitigation Strategies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 7853 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Designing for Cooler Street: Case Study of Van City

by Nursevil Yuca, Şevket Alp, Sevgi Yilmaz, Elmira Jamei and Adeb Qaid

Land 2025, 14(12), 2313; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14122313 - 25 Nov 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1293

Abstract

In the context of global climate change and rapid urbanization, the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect has become a pressing environmental and public health concern, particularly in semiarid regions. This study evaluates the microclimatic performance of various urban design strategies aimed at enhancing [...] Read more.

In the context of global climate change and rapid urbanization, the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect has become a pressing environmental and public health concern, particularly in semiarid regions. This study evaluates the microclimatic performance of various urban design strategies aimed at enhancing thermal comfort along a densely built-up street in Van, a medium-sized city located in Turkey’s semiarid climate zone. Using ENVI-met 5.7.2, nine alternative scenarios were simulated, incorporating different configurations of vegetation cover (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%), ground surface materials, and green roof applications (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%). Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) and other thermal comfort indicators were assessed at multiple time intervals on the hottest summer day. Results indicate that increasing vegetation cover substantially reduces PET values, with a maximum reduction of 3.0 °C observed in the 75% vegetation scenario. While the scenario with no vegetation but light-colored pavements achieved a 1.8 °C reduction in air temperature at 2:00 p.m., the maximum PET value remained unchanged. Conversely, using dark-colored asphalt decreased the average air temperature by 1 °C and improved the thermal comfort level by reducing the PET by 0.4 °C compared to a non-vegetated scenario. The scenario with the highest overall greenery led to a 2.9 °C drop in air temperature and a 12.8 °C reduction in average PET at 2:00 p.m. compared to other scenarios. The study provides evidence-based recommendations for human-centered urban planning and advocates for the integration of microclimate simulation tools in the early stages of urban development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological and Climatic Adaptations for Sustainable City Living)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 3955 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Integrating Ecosystem Services into Urban Carbon Dynamics: A Dual-Scale Spatial Analysis of Land Use, Emissions, and Planning

by Carmelina Bevilacqua, Poya Sohrabi and Nourhan Hamdy

Land 2025, 14(11), 2286; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14112286 - 19 Nov 2025

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1346

Abstract

Integrating ecosystem services into urban planning requires analytical tools that connect spatial land-use data with environmental performance. This paper applies a multi-scale, data-driven approach to assess urban carbon dynamics using spatial units that reflect both ecological functions and planning relevance. The study examines [...] Read more.

Integrating ecosystem services into urban planning requires analytical tools that connect spatial land-use data with environmental performance. This paper applies a multi-scale, data-driven approach to assess urban carbon dynamics using spatial units that reflect both ecological functions and planning relevance. The study examines the Reggio Calabria Functional Urban Area (FUA) in Southern Italy, using Copernicus Urban Atlas land-use data to characterize spatial patterns and estimate CO₂ emissions and sequestration using parameters derived from established literature and institutional sources. A Spatial Durbin Model (SDM) identifies land uses with direct and spillover effects, revealing how spatial organization shapes urban carbon outcomes. Results reveal a net emission imbalance of approximately 1.85 billion kg CO₂ per year, confirming the region’s role as a net emitter. Transport corridors and discontinuous low-density urban areas show the strongest positive SDM coefficients (+3.48 and +0.78 kg CO₂ m⁻² yr⁻¹, respectively). Forests and agricultural lands show negative effects, indicating potential sequestration functions, though not statistically significant. This suggests that natural and semi-natural land uses contribute little to measurable CO₂ reduction within the FUA. Emissions and sinks display a polarized spatial pattern, with coastal urban zones acting as hotspots and inland areas serving as potential sinks. These findings underscore the need to strengthen ecological connectivity and integrate green infrastructure within dense urban areas to enhance mitigation capacity. The proposed framework shows how spatially explicit, hierarchical analysis can bridge ecosystem services and urban planning, offering a replicable basis for data-informed, climate-responsive strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers on Land Use, Impact Assessment and Sustainability)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 988 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Unveiling Participation Dynamics: A Comparative Study of Green Infrastructure Practices

by Mingwei Yuan and Jin-Oh Kim

Land 2025, 14(11), 2267; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14112267 - 17 Nov 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2098

Abstract

Outcomes for urban green infrastructure (GI) and low-impact development (LID) vary; thus, we ask when and how public participation affects performance. We apply a four-dimensional framework—breadth (who participates), depth (decision influence), identity (values/place attachment), and potential (incentives/capacity)—to conduct a literature review of Web [...] Read more.

Outcomes for urban green infrastructure (GI) and low-impact development (LID) vary; thus, we ask when and how public participation affects performance. We apply a four-dimensional framework—breadth (who participates), depth (decision influence), identity (values/place attachment), and potential (incentives/capacity)—to conduct a literature review of Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. After deduplication and screening, 107 English-language studies were coded and compared across cases. Across contexts, early and representative engagement combined with clearly specified decision rights was associated with designs better aligned with local hydrologic and social conditions. Processes that attend to identity were consistently linked to stewardship behaviors. Institutionalized incentives and capacity, such as dedicated funding, defined roles, and feedback mechanisms, coincided with more durable operations and maintenance (O&M). Conversely, broad outreach without decision influence or feedback tended to remain tokenistic, with technical complexity and resource limits attenuating public influence. Effects appeared configurational rather than linear, with particular combinations of the four dimensions more often associated with success. Embedding codesign and feedback across the project lifecycle, pairing equity safeguards with community partnerships, and resourcing participation through clearly defined roles and incentives may help translate participation into resilient ecological and social outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Land Planning and Landscape Architecture)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 4510 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Spatiotemporal Evolution and Driving Factors of Land Economic Density at Township Scale: A Case Study of Anyang City, China

by Zechen Wang, Xin Shen, Jiayuan Mao, Zhangyanyang Yao and Shiliang Liu

Land 2025, 14(11), 2227; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14112227 - 11 Nov 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1573

Abstract

Land economic density (LED) is vital for optimizing industrial structure and promoting intensive resource utilization. However, most existing studies have focused on city or county scales, with limited attention to township-level patterns. To address this research gap, we take 86 townships in Anyang [...] Read more.

Land economic density (LED) is vital for optimizing industrial structure and promoting intensive resource utilization. However, most existing studies have focused on city or county scales, with limited attention to township-level patterns. To address this research gap, we take 86 townships in Anyang City as research units and develop a four-dimensional evaluation system for LED. The study aims to reveal the spatial patterns and driving mechanisms of township-level LED evolution. This study is based on township-level land use, statistical, and socioeconomic data from 2005 to 2023. Using ArcGIS 10.5 for spatial analysis, spatial autocorrelation, standard deviation ellipse, and geographically weighted regression methods were applied to explore the spatiotemporal evolution and driving mechanisms of LED in Anyang City. The results indicate that (1) high-LED areas form a ring around the central city with dual cores in western Linzhou county and southeastern Huaxian county, while low-LED areas are concentrated at the northwestern and northeastern margins; (2) global spatial autocorrelation is weak, with low–low clusters shrinking from contiguous patches to only three townships by 2023, while high–high clusters expand from isolated points to multi-centered diffusion; (3) the ellipse consistently shows a northwest–southeast orientation, with the rotation angle increasing from 128.24° to 130.35°, the flatness ratio rising from 0.432 to 0.445, and the centroid shifting northwest then southeast; (4) The geographically weighted regression (GWR) results highlight economic foundation, industrial upgrading, and government support as the dominant drivers. Based on these findings, we propose a “One Core–Four Poles, Three Axes–Five Zones” spatial optimization framework to promote coordinated urban–rural development. This study provides a practical and multidimensional evaluation approach at the township level, offering methodological support for regional territorial spatial planning and sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Celebrating National Land Day of China)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 4278 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

City-Specific Drivers of Land Surface Temperature in Three Korean Megacities: XGBoost-SHAP and GWR Highlight Building Density

by Hogyeong Jeong, Yeeun Shin and Kyungjin An

Land 2025, 14(11), 2232; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14112232 - 11 Nov 2025

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 1669

Abstract

Urban heat island (UHI), a significant environmental issue caused by urbanization, is a pressing challenge in modern society. To mitigate it, urban thermal policies have been implemented globally. However, despite differences in topographical and environmental characteristics between cities and within the same city, [...] Read more.

Urban heat island (UHI), a significant environmental issue caused by urbanization, is a pressing challenge in modern society. To mitigate it, urban thermal policies have been implemented globally. However, despite differences in topographical and environmental characteristics between cities and within the same city, these policies are largely uniform and fail to reflect contexts, creating notable drawbacks. This study analyzed three cities in Korea with high land surface temperatures (LSTs) to identify factors influencing LST by applying Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) with Shapley Additive explanations (SHAP) and Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR). Each variable was derived by calculating the average values from May to September 2020. LST was the dependent variable, and the independent variables were chosen based on previous studies: Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI), ALBEDO, Population Density (POP_D), Digital Elevation Model (DEM), and SLOPE. XGBoost-SHAP was used to derive the relative importance of the variables, followed by GWR to assess spatial variation in effects. The results indicate that NDBI, reflecting building density, is the primary factor influencing the thermal environment in all three cities. However, the second most influential factor differed by city: SLOPE had a strong effect in Daegu, characterized by surrounding mountains; POP_D had greater influence in Incheon, where population distribution varies due to clustered islands; and DEM was more influential in Seoul, which contains a mix of plains, mountains, and river landscapes. Furthermore, while NDBI and ALBEDO consistently contributed to LST increases across all regions, the effects of the remaining variables were spatially heterogeneous. These findings highlight that urban areas are not homogeneous and that variations in land use, development patterns, and morphology significantly shape heat environments. Therefore, UHI mitigation strategies should prioritize improving urban form while incorporating localized planning tailored to each region’s physical and socio-environmental characteristics. The results can serve as a foundation for developing strategies and policy decisions to mitigate UHI effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beyond Boundaries: Exploring the Nexus of People, Land, and Water Along Land Use Gradients)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

36 pages, 11240 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Public Perception of Urban Recreational Spaces Based on Large Vision–Language Models: A Case Study of Beijing’s Third Ring Area

by Yan Wang, Xin Hou, Xuan Wang and Wei Fan

Land 2025, 14(11), 2155; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14112155 - 29 Oct 2025

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2403

Abstract

Urban recreational spaces (URSs) are pivotal for enhancing resident well-being, making the accurate assessment of public perceptions crucial for quality optimization. Compared to traditional surveys, social media data provide a scalable means for multi-dimensional perception assessment. However, existing studies predominantly rely on single-modal [...] Read more.

Urban recreational spaces (URSs) are pivotal for enhancing resident well-being, making the accurate assessment of public perceptions crucial for quality optimization. Compared to traditional surveys, social media data provide a scalable means for multi-dimensional perception assessment. However, existing studies predominantly rely on single-modal data, which limits the comprehensive capturing of complex perceptions and lacks interpretability. To address these gaps, this study employs cutting-edge large vision–language models (LVLMs) and develops an interpretable model, Qwen2.5-VL-7B-SFT, through supervised fine-tuning on a manually annotated dataset. The model integrates visual-linguistic features to assess four perceptual dimensions of URSs: esthetics, attractiveness, cultural significance, and restorativeness. Crucially, we generate textual evidence for our judgments by identifying the key spatial elements and emotional characteristics associated with specific perceptions. By integrating multi-source built environment data with Optuna-optimized machine learning and SHAP analysis, we further decipher the nonlinear relationships between built environment variables and perceptual outcomes. The results are as follows: (1) Interpretable LVLMs are highly effective for urban spatial perception research. (2) URSs within Beijing’s Third Ring Road fall into four typologies, historical heritage, commercial entertainment, ecological-natural, and cultural spaces, with significant correlations observed between physical elements and emotional responses. (3) Historical heritage accessibility and POI density are identified as key predictors of public perception. Positive perception significantly improves when a block’s POI functional density exceeds 4000 units/km² or when its 500 m radius encompasses more than four historical heritage sites. Our methodology enables precise quantification of multidimensional URS perceptions, links built environment elements to perceptual mechanisms, and provides actionable insights for urban planning. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 16955 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Impacts of Blue–Green Space Patterns on Carbon Sequestration Benefits in High-Density Cities of the Middle and Lower Yangtze River Basin: A Comparative Analysis Based on the XGBoost-SHAP Model

by Tao Shou, Sidan Yao, Qianyu Hong, Jingwen Mao and Yangyang Yuan

Land 2025, 14(10), 2094; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14102094 - 21 Oct 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1687

Abstract

As the driving force of China’s green development, cities play a pivotal role in carbon sequestration, with their green and blue spaces jointly influencing both carbon sequestrations and carbon emissions. Yet, most existing studies rely on linear analyses, limiting the capture of nonlinear [...] Read more.

As the driving force of China’s green development, cities play a pivotal role in carbon sequestration, with their green and blue spaces jointly influencing both carbon sequestrations and carbon emissions. Yet, most existing studies rely on linear analyses, limiting the capture of nonlinear characteristics and overlooking cross-city differences in spatial configurations. Variations in spatial structures, morphology, and distribution of blue–green spaces may lead to divergent sequestration mechanisms, highlighting the need for comparative research. This study selects five high-density cities in the middle and lower Yangtze River Basin (2000, 2010, 2020) as case studies. Using the XGBoost-SHAP model, we investigate the correlations between blue–green space patterns and carbon sequestration benefits across cities. Results show that key indicators vary by city: patch shape complexity, patch area, and connectivity significantly affect sequestration benefits across all cases, while patch proximity, size, shape, and spatial aggregation matter in specific cities. This study provides a reference for optimizing urban blue–green space configurations from the perspective of carbon sequestration benefits and offers a direction for further exploration of their underlying mechanisms. At the planning level, the study identifies key indicators influencing carbon sequestration across different urban forms, providing a scientific basis for context-specific optimization of blue–green space structures and for promoting low-carbon and resilient urban development. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

30 pages, 10979 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Mapping Urban Segregation with GeoAI: Street View Perceptions and Socio-Spatial Inequality in Thessaloniki, Greece

by Aristotelis Vartholomaios and Apostolos Lagarias

Land 2025, 14(10), 2083; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14102083 - 18 Oct 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3057

Abstract

This study examines the statistical and spatial alignment between urban place perceptions and the census-based evidence of socio-spatial segregation. We process a large dataset of geotagged images from Mapillary and KartaView with ZenSVI to score six place perception dimensions (safety, liveliness, wealth, beauty, [...] Read more.

This study examines the statistical and spatial alignment between urban place perceptions and the census-based evidence of socio-spatial segregation. We process a large dataset of geotagged images from Mapillary and KartaView with ZenSVI to score six place perception dimensions (safety, liveliness, wealth, beauty, boredom, depression) for the metropolitan area of Thessaloniki, Greece. The socio-economic structure is derived from census indicators and property values using Location Quotients and principal component analysis. We assess alignment through Pearson’s correlation (r) to capture statistical association, and bivariate Moran’s I to test spatial correspondence while accounting for spatial dependence. Results reveal a robust northwest–southeast divide: southeastern and central districts are perceived as safer, livelier, wealthier, and more beautiful, while northwestern and industrial zones score higher on boredom and depression. The historic city center emerges as vibrant and affluent, acting as a key interface between social groups, especially students, the elderly, and migrants. Perceptual dimensions vary in spatial form: safety, beauty, and depression cluster locally, whereas wealth and vibrancy extend over broader sectors. The study demonstrates the combined use of perceptual and socio-economic data for urban analysis and provides a replicable framework for monitoring inequalities and guiding participatory and inclusive planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue GeoAI for Urban Sustainability Monitoring and Analysis)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 2198 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceSystematic Review

Combining Resilience and Sustainability in Urban Mobility: A Scoping Review and Thematic Analysis

by Mariana Luiza da Silva Sassaron, Antônio Nélson Rodrigues da Silva, Fernando Fonseca, Daniel Rodrigues, Paulo J. G. Ribeiro and Camila Mayumi Nakata-Osaki

Land 2025, 14(10), 2063; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14102063 - 16 Oct 2025

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2695

Abstract

The need to address long-term sustainability goals while ensuring short-term resilience to unexpected disruptions is placing an increasing challenge on urban mobility systems. This study organizes an analytical framework that compares and integrates the concepts of sustainability and resilience in urban mobility. A [...] Read more.

The need to address long-term sustainability goals while ensuring short-term resilience to unexpected disruptions is placing an increasing challenge on urban mobility systems. This study organizes an analytical framework that compares and integrates the concepts of sustainability and resilience in urban mobility. A scoping review and thematic analysis were conducted to identify and compare the definitions, dimensions, and operational features of these two paradigms. The results reveal that, although they are conceptually distinct, sustainability and resilience share subjects of analysis, including multimodality and diversity of transport modes, the impacts of climate change, and social equity issues. However, they also present tensions between the dimensions of efficiency and redundancy, speed of recovery and sustainability of implemented solutions, and new vulnerabilities introduced by sustainable technologies. These synergies and trade-offs underscore the necessity of an integrated, systemic and holistic approach to urban mobility planning. The study emphasizes that building resilient and sustainable urban mobility requires coherent policies across government levels, technical capacity, public engagement, and comprehensive indicators. Recommendations for future research include developing integrated metrics and planning tools to support evidence-based decision-making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Urban Planning and Sustainable Mobility)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 14068 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Spatiotemporal Patterns of the Evolution of the Urban Heat Island Effect and Population Heat Exposure Risks in Xi’an, One of China’s Megacities, from 2003 to 2023

by Zijie Li, Xinqi Wang, Haiyue Zhao and Xiaoming Xu

Land 2025, 14(10), 2021; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14102021 - 9 Oct 2025

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2580

Abstract

Under the dual pressure of rapid urbanization and global warming, the urban heat island (UHI) effect has been intensifying, accompanied by a continuous increase in heat exposure. As a typical example of rapid urbanization in China, Xi’an is facing severe challenges. However, previous [...] Read more.

Under the dual pressure of rapid urbanization and global warming, the urban heat island (UHI) effect has been intensifying, accompanied by a continuous increase in heat exposure. As a typical example of rapid urbanization in China, Xi’an is facing severe challenges. However, previous research on diurnal variations in long-term UHI effects and heat risks is insufficient. So, this study utilized the temperature level threshold method and the heat exposure risk assessment model to investigate the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of diurnal variations in the UHI and population heat exposure risks in Xi’an from 2003 to 2023. The results indicate that (1) over the past two decades, both the summer UHI intensity and the population heat exposure risks in Xi’an exhibited an overall intensifying trend, (2) spatial expansion followed a radial diffusion pattern centered on the urban core, with heat risk levels decreasing outward, (3) the nighttime expansion of high-level UHI zones and risk areas was slightly less than during the daytime, and (4) changes in the thermal environment often preceded population aggregation, indicating a lag effect in the evolution of heat exposure risks. This study deepened the understanding of the UHI and heat exposure for governments and planners and can help propose scientific UHI mitigation measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Heat Island Effects in Global Cities: Balancing Rapid Urbanization, Land Surface Temperature Dynamics, and Sustainable Adaptation Strategies)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

23 pages, 2626 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Land Use and Water Stress as Determinants of Ecosystem Resilience: A Panel Data Analysis of Biodiversity Loss Drivers in European Countries

by Irina Georgescu and Mioara Băncescu

Land 2025, 14(10), 1946; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14101946 - 25 Sep 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1405

Abstract

This study evaluates the influence of land use and water stress on ecosystem resilience, using panel data for thirty-three European countries from 2007 to 2024, following the identification of a research gap in the literature on this topic. The dependent variable is the [...] Read more.

This study evaluates the influence of land use and water stress on ecosystem resilience, using panel data for thirty-three European countries from 2007 to 2024, following the identification of a research gap in the literature on this topic. The dependent variable is the bioclimatic ecosystem resilience index (BER), and the explanatory variables are Agricultural Land Share (ALS), Forest Land Share (FLS), and the Level of Water Stress (WS). The estimated models are a fixed-effects panel regression with Driscoll-Kraay standard errors, robust to autocorrelation, heteroscedasticity, and spatial dependence, and a kernel-based regularized least squares model, which offers a new, nonlinear, heterogeneous, and sensitive to local contexts perspective on ecosystem resilience. The results indicate a significant positive effect of FLS on ecosystem resilience, ALS has a mixed influence, while WS has a negative impact. Robustness checks using cluster-robust standard errors and alternative model specifications confirmed the stability and direction of the estimated coefficients. The conclusions support the promotion of forest conservation policies, sustainable water resource management, and ecosystem-friendly agriculture practices as main directions for enhancing the capacity of ecosystems to respond to human and climate pressures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conservation of Bio- and Geo-Diversity and Landscape Changes II)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 9972 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Improving Agricultural Efficiency of Dry Farmlands by Integrating Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Monitoring Data and Deep Learning

by Tung-Ching Su, Tsung-Chiang Wu and Hsin-Ju Chen

Land 2025, 14(6), 1179; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14061179 - 29 May 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1431

Abstract

This study aimed to address the challenge of monitoring and managing soil moisture in dryland agriculture with supplemental irrigation under increasingly extreme climate conditions. Using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with hyperspectral sensors, we collected imagery of wheat fields on Kinmen Island at [...] Read more.

This study aimed to address the challenge of monitoring and managing soil moisture in dryland agriculture with supplemental irrigation under increasingly extreme climate conditions. Using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with hyperspectral sensors, we collected imagery of wheat fields on Kinmen Island at various growth stages. The Modified Perpendicular Drought Index (MPDI) was calculated to quantify soil drought conditions. Simultaneously, soil samples were collected to measure the actual soil moisture content. These datasets were used to develop a Gradient Boosting Regression (GBR) model to estimate soil moisture across the entire field. The resulting AI-based model can guide decisions on the timing and scale of supplemental irrigation, ensuring water is applied only when needed during crop growth. Furthermore, MPDI values and wheat spike samples were used to construct another GBR model for yield prediction. When applying MPDI values from multispectral imagery collected at a similar stage in the following year, the model achieved a prediction accuracy of over 90%. The proposed approach offers a reliable solution for enhancing the resilience and productivity of dryland crops under climate stress and demonstrates the potential of integrating remote sensing and machine learning in precision water management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends in Land Cover/Use Monitoring)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2805 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Current Status of Acid Soils Under Different Landform Types in an Expanding Equatorial Agricultural Region

by Juan David Mahecha-Pulido, Juan Manuel Trujillo-González, Marco Aurelio Torres-Mora, Francisco J. García-Navarro and Raimundo Jiménez-Ballesta

Land 2025, 14(5), 1073; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14051073 - 15 May 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2523

Abstract

This study assesses the current status of selected soil properties of an expanding equatorial agricultural region (Arauca, Colombia) across six landscapes, with the final focus being on evaluating overall soil quality. Field surveys, morphological descriptions, and laboratory analyses of 133 soil profiles were [...] Read more.

This study assesses the current status of selected soil properties of an expanding equatorial agricultural region (Arauca, Colombia) across six landscapes, with the final focus being on evaluating overall soil quality. Field surveys, morphological descriptions, and laboratory analyses of 133 soil profiles were investigated. The landscapes include mountains (25 profiles), foothills (17), hills (11), alluvial plains (43), alluvial plains with dunes (21), and alluvial valleys (16). Soils are classified into six Reference Soil Groups (WRB FAO): Gleysols, Acrisols, Arenosols, Ferralsols, Leptosols, and Cambisols. The findings indicate high acidity, low fertility, and deficient exchangeable bases. Indeed, pH ranges from extremely acid to slightly acid (3.5–6.4), and exchangeable acidity saturation percentage (%SAI) values reach 100% in some areas. Soil textures vary from clay loam to sandy loam and clay. Nutrient contents are ranked in the order Cambisols > Gleysols > Arenosols > Ferralsols > Acrisols > Leptosols. Correlation analysis reveals that clay content positively influences the exchangeable basis percentage, while organic matter (OM) negatively correlates with the nutrients phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium. This study highlights that landscape position influences soil quality, with lower landscape positions having better quality than upper ones. These results provide insights into soil fertility and nutrient availability, which helps to predict suitable plant cultivation areas when increasing areas for agricultural use versus forestry in Arauca. The inclusion or maintenance of diverse tree species is a key element in maintaining the production of organic matter and, consequently, generating better soil quality. Full article

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

26 pages, 9187 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A New Perspective on Blue–Green Infrastructure for Climate Adaptation in Urbanized Areas: A Soil-Pipe System as a Multifunctional Solution

by Henrike Walther, Christoph Bennerscheidt, Dirk Jan Boudeling, Markus Streckenbach, Felix Simon, Christoph Mudersbach, Saphira Schnaut, Mark Oelmann and Markus Quirmbach

Land 2025, 14(5), 1065; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14051065 - 14 May 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3529

Abstract

The implementation of a decentralized blue–green infrastructure (BGI) is a key strategy in climate adaptation and stormwater management. However, the integration of urban trees into the multifunctional infrastructure remains insufficiently addressed, particularly regarding rooting space in dense urban environments. Addressing this gap, the [...] Read more.

The implementation of a decentralized blue–green infrastructure (BGI) is a key strategy in climate adaptation and stormwater management. However, the integration of urban trees into the multifunctional infrastructure remains insufficiently addressed, particularly regarding rooting space in dense urban environments. Addressing this gap, the BoRSiS project developed the soil-pipe system (SPS), which repurposes the existing underground pipe trenches and roadway space to provide trees with significantly larger root zones without competing for additional urban space. This enhances tree-related ecosystem services, such as cooling, air purification, and runoff reduction. The SPS serves as a stormwater retention system by capturing excess rainwater during heavy precipitation events of up to 180 min, reducing the pressure on drainage systems. System evaluations show that, on average, each SPS module (20 m trench length) can store 1028–1285 L of water, enabling a moisture supply to trees for 3.4 to 25.7 days depending on the species and site conditions. This capacity allows the system to buffer short-term drought periods, which, according to climate data, recur with frequencies of 9 (7-day) and 2 (14-day) events per year. Geotechnical and economic assessments confirm the system stability and cost-efficiency. These findings position the SPS as a scalable, multifunctional solution for urban climate adaptation, tree vitality, and a resilient infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Adaptation Planning in Urban Areas)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2007 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Desertification as a Social–Ecological Trap: How Does It Come About and What Are Namibian Freehold Farmers Doing About It?

by Lena Grieger, Katja Brinkmann, Markus Rauchecker and Stefan Liehr

Land 2025, 14(5), 1016; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14051016 - 7 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2853

Abstract

Desertification, accompanied by the loss of perennial grasses and bush encroachment, affects more than 10% of the world’s drylands, thereby placing increasing pressure on rangelands and farmers’ livelihoods. In Namibia, rangeland desertification is exacerbated by external shocks such as droughts, market changes, and [...] Read more.

Desertification, accompanied by the loss of perennial grasses and bush encroachment, affects more than 10% of the world’s drylands, thereby placing increasing pressure on rangelands and farmers’ livelihoods. In Namibia, rangeland desertification is exacerbated by external shocks such as droughts, market changes, and new regulatory frameworks that have led to profound social and ecological changes within this tightly coupled social–ecological system (SES). In this context, the interrelationship among system components, drivers, and external factors, as well as the impact of strategies to halt desertification, remain poorly understood. The present study employed a retrospective mixed-methods approach to investigate the drivers of desertification on Namibia’s freehold farms by applying the social–ecological trap (SET) concept. Our approach combined remote sensing methods with semi-structured interviews and a literature review. The aim was to decipher the underlying processes and self-reinforcing feedback loops and to identify associated changes in the social and ecological subsystem. Our results revealed that inadequate grass availability, coupled with income deficits, serves as a pivotal catalyst for rangeland desertification, perpetuating a self-reinforcing feedback loop. To avoid or mitigate the effects of ecological regime shifts and to help farmers escape the SET of desertification, it will be necessary to implement changes in the dominant feedback loops through long-term risk mitigation strategies, such as rangeland restoration measures, as well as on- and off-farm income diversification. These strategies will provide a foundation for subsequent research on effective long-term mitigation strategies to prevent further rangeland desertification and to secure the livelihoods of farmers. Full article

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

20 pages, 608 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Impact of Urban Shrinkage on Carbon Emission Intensity and Its Spatial Spillover Effects

by Xiaochun Zhao and Xiaodan Nie

Land 2025, 14(5), 975; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14050975 - 30 Apr 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1848

Abstract

Cities are important consumers of resources, and their carbon emissions are key to realizing China’s dual-carbon goals. However, the trend of urban shrinkage has grown increasingly pronounced in recent years, and how this affects the carbon emissions of cities is a major issue [...] Read more.

Cities are important consumers of resources, and their carbon emissions are key to realizing China’s dual-carbon goals. However, the trend of urban shrinkage has grown increasingly pronounced in recent years, and how this affects the carbon emissions of cities is a major issue that deserves to be studied. This study zeroes in on 278 Chinese cities that rank at or above the prefectural level between 2012 and 2021, employs a comprehensive analytical framework, incorporating multiple methodological approaches including entropy-based measurement, panel fixed-effects regression, mediating effect analysis, and spatial econometric modeling, to systematically investigate how urban shrinkage affects carbon emission intensity. The study’s findings indicate the following: (1) Urban contraction exacerbates the further increase in carbon emission intensity. (2) Mechanism tests show that human capital level and industrial structure advancement are the primary pathways through which urban shrinkage influences carbon intensity. (3) Urban contraction has a greater effect on increasing carbon emission intensity in central, western, and resource-dependent cities, according to the heterogeneity study. (4) Urban shrinkage lowers nearby cities’ carbon intensity through spatial spillovers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Second Edition: Urban Planning Pathways to Carbon Neutrality)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

44 pages, 21810 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

A Historical Review of the Land Subsidence Phenomena Interaction with Flooding, Land Use Changes, and Storms at the East Thessaly Basin—Insights from InSAR Data

by Nikolaos Antoniadis and Constantinos Loupasakis

Land 2025, 14(4), 827; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14040827 - 10 Apr 2025

Viewed by 3800

Abstract

The Thessaly Plain, Greece’s largest alluvial basin, has undergone significant geological, hydrological, and anthropogenic transformations. This study synthesises historical records, geological and hydrogeological studies to assess the evolution of the East Thessaly Plain, focusing on land use changes, groundwater management, and environmental challenges. [...] Read more.

The Thessaly Plain, Greece’s largest alluvial basin, has undergone significant geological, hydrological, and anthropogenic transformations. This study synthesises historical records, geological and hydrogeological studies to assess the evolution of the East Thessaly Plain, focusing on land use changes, groundwater management, and environmental challenges. Intensive agricultural practices, particularly from the 1970s onward, have led to groundwater overexploitation, land subsidence, and declining water quality. The overexploitation of the aquifers, exacerbated by extensive irrigation and inefficient water management, has resulted in critical groundwater shortages and widespread subsidence, particularly in the Larissa–Karla and Titarisios Cone systems. Additionally, recent extreme weather events, including Medicane Daniel (2023) and Medicane Ianos (2020), have highlighted the region’s vulnerability to hydrological hazards, with extensive flooding affecting urban and agricultural areas. The re-emergence of Lake Karla as a flood retention area underscores the unintended consequences of past drainage efforts. Remote sensing, geodetic surveys, and historical records have been examined to assess the interplay between groundwater withdrawals, land subsidence, and flood risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessing Land Subsidence Using Remote Sensing Data)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 698 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluating Natural Climate Solutions in Long-Term Climate Strategies: Opportunities for Enhanced Mitigation Across the European Union

by Giulio Di Lallo, Chiara De Notaris and Maria Vincenza Chiriacò

Land 2025, 14(4), 825; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14040825 - 10 Apr 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1536

Abstract

Effective national strategies must be carefully planned in advance to position the land sector as a pivotal contributor to achieving the 2050 climate neutrality target set by the European Union (EU) under the Paris Agreement. Governments define their pathways to achieve the climate [...] Read more.

Effective national strategies must be carefully planned in advance to position the land sector as a pivotal contributor to achieving the 2050 climate neutrality target set by the European Union (EU) under the Paris Agreement. Governments define their pathways to achieve the climate goals through the long-term low emission development strategies (LTSs), which describe policies and measures for a just and socially fair transition to low greenhouse gas. This paper explores the natural climate solutions foreseen by the available twenty-five LTSs in the EU to assess each country’s use and potential of land mitigation. Subsequently, it evaluates if better planning is possible to increase carbon storage and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We found that most of the analyzed twenty-five EU countries envisage a wide set of natural climate solutions, demonstrating an understand of importance of land policies and measures to meet their climate targets. Sustainable forest management, agroforestry, and healthy and sustainable diets emerge as solutions mostly reported and with the largest mitigation potential across the EU, albeit with large variability among countries. However, some countries could further harness the potential for mitigation in the land sector. This study highlights how some countries could improve their LTSs, accounting for their specific land mitigation potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Land–Climate Interactions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 10825 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Long-Term Subsidence Assessment by LiCSBAS and Emerging Hot Spot Analysis in Kathmandu Valley

by Sagar Rawal and Guoquan Wang

Land 2025, 14(4), 700; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14040700 - 26 Mar 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 7639

Abstract

Rapid urbanization in Kathmandu Valley has strained its aquifer system, causing significant land subsidence. This study employs LiCSBAS for InSAR processing of Sentinel-1 data (2017–2024) to map subsidence-prone areas. The significant subsidence was found in northwest (Baluwatar, Samakhusi, and Manmaiju), southern (Gwarko, Patan, [...] Read more.

Rapid urbanization in Kathmandu Valley has strained its aquifer system, causing significant land subsidence. This study employs LiCSBAS for InSAR processing of Sentinel-1 data (2017–2024) to map subsidence-prone areas. The significant subsidence was found in northwest (Baluwatar, Samakhusi, and Manmaiju), southern (Gwarko, Patan, and Koteshwor), and northeast (Madhapur Thimi and Gathhaghar) regions with a maximum subsidence rate ~21 cm/yr. Subsidence has also expanded towards the outskirts and open areas in the eastern and southern parts of Lalitpur and Bhaktapur districts. Emerging hot spot analysis reveals a slowing subsidence trend in high-risk zones, possibly linked to the MWSP project reducing groundwater extraction from 58 MLD (2021) to 26 MLD (2024). Many subsidence-affected areas are located over the Kalimati and Gokarna Formations in highly urbanized areas. The key contributing factors to subsidence are soil compaction, excessive groundwater use, and urban sprawl encroaching open areas and recharge zones. These findings underscore the urgent need for sustainable groundwater management and land-use planning to promote urban resilience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessing Land Subsidence Using Remote Sensing Data)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 3886 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Complex Deforestation Patterns in and Around the Protected Areas of Madagascar from 2015 to 2023

by F. Ollier D. Andrianambinina, Jörg Ulrich Ganzhorn, Patrick O. Waeber and Lucienne Wilmé

Land 2025, 14(4), 698; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14040698 - 25 Mar 2025

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 7316

Abstract

Madagascar’s protected areas (PAs) play a critical role in biodiversity conservation, yet deforestation continues to threaten both their integrity and surrounding landscapes. This study assesses deforestation patterns inside and within a 5 km buffer zone around terrestrial PAs from 2015 to 2023, using [...] Read more.

Madagascar’s protected areas (PAs) play a critical role in biodiversity conservation, yet deforestation continues to threaten both their integrity and surrounding landscapes. This study assesses deforestation patterns inside and within a 5 km buffer zone around terrestrial PAs from 2015 to 2023, using improved remote sensing data based on Landsat 8. We examine the influence of governance, PA category, proximity to infrastructure, and human population dynamics on deforestation rates. Our results illustrate that PAs categorized under IUCN I to IV generally experience lower deforestation rates inside their boundaries than PAs in categories V and VI. The latter often mirror the deforestation patterns observed in their surrounding buffer zones. Additionally, larger PAs, PAs with greater road accessibility, and areas experiencing migration-driven land-use changes exhibit higher amounts of deforestation. We highlight the role of buffer zones as deforestation absorbers and discuss the need for adaptive governance strategies that integrate local socio-economic realities to enhance conservation effectiveness. These findings offer critical insights for improving Madagascar’s PA management and broader land-use planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forest Ecosystems: Protection and Restoration II)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 14330 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Prediction Capability of Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) in Badland Susceptibility Mapping: The Foglia River Basin (Italy) Case of Study

by Margherita Bianchini, Stefano Morelli, Mirko Francioni and Roberta Bonì

Land 2025, 14(3), 651; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14030651 - 19 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2392

Abstract

Badland morphologies are prominent examples of linear erosion occurring on clay-rich slopes and are critical hotspots for sediment production. Traditional field-based mapping of these features can be both time-consuming and costly, particularly over larger basins. This research proposes a novel methodology for assessing [...] Read more.

Badland morphologies are prominent examples of linear erosion occurring on clay-rich slopes and are critical hotspots for sediment production. Traditional field-based mapping of these features can be both time-consuming and costly, particularly over larger basins. This research proposes a novel methodology for assessing badland susceptibility through a multi-criteria decision-making framework known as the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). This methodology, developed and tested in the Foglia River basin of the Marche region (Italy), facilitates the identification and mapping of badland areas. More in detail, our study resulted in the creation of a comprehensive badland inventory and susceptibility map for the 102 km² study area, identifying 276 badlands using a combination of satellite imagery, historical orthophotos, existing regional inventories, and field inspections. Key predisposing factors, including geological, land use, topographical, and hydrometric elements, were systematically analyzed using the AHP approach. The research findings indicate that badlands develop in medium to steep slopes oriented towards the southern quadrants and in proximity to watercourses; their formation is predominantly influenced by clayey–sandy lithology. The resulting inventory and susceptibility map serve as relevant tools for monitoring, preventing, and mitigating slope instability risks within the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Understanding Disasters in a Changing Landscape: Causes, Impacts and Mitigation Strategies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2977 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Developing Cross-Border Spatial Planning: Establishing a Common Understanding Through a Forthcoming European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation Between Galicia and Portugal

by Roberto Vila-Lage, Alejandro Otero-Varela and Valerià Paül

Land 2025, 14(3), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14030542 - 5 Mar 2025

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3601

Abstract

At the border between Galicia (Spain) and Northern Portugal, where three European Groupings of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC) currently operate, the process to establish a fourth one is underway: Raia Seca Gerês/Xurés (RSGX). This new cross-border cooperation structure covers an area rich in natural [...] Read more.

At the border between Galicia (Spain) and Northern Portugal, where three European Groupings of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC) currently operate, the process to establish a fourth one is underway: Raia Seca Gerês/Xurés (RSGX). This new cross-border cooperation structure covers an area rich in natural and cultural heritage and mostly matches the Gerês/Xurés Transboundary Biosphere Reserve designated in 2009. The goal of this paper is to decipher to what extent a common understanding between both sides of the border might enable the delivery of a common spatial plan managed by the EGTC under the auspices of the sustainable development paradigm. The findings obtained from the interviews conducted indicate that borders remain present in the experiences and mentalities of the interviewed stakeholders and that cross-border spatial planning largely depends on territorial agendas linked to national-state sovereignty, hindering its factual implementation. The interviewees expect the future EGTC to serve as a mechanism to channel cooperation and redefine the role of the already designated Transboundary Biosphere Reserve, moving beyond isolated actions funded by Interreg and embracing a more integrated approach to cooperation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Global Commons Governance and Sustainable Land Use)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 4852 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Structural and Functional Connectivity of Thermal Refuges in a Desert City: Impacts of Climate Change and Urbanization on Desert Wildlife

by Amy E. Frazier, Brian Sehner and Barira Rashid

Land 2025, 14(3), 480; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14030480 - 26 Feb 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2588

Abstract

Connectivity is crucial for species conservation, but most assessments define connectivity solely in terms of protected or natural areas and land covers without regard for the underlying thermal environment. As climate change accelerates, it is becoming increasingly important to not only assess land [...] Read more.

Connectivity is crucial for species conservation, but most assessments define connectivity solely in terms of protected or natural areas and land covers without regard for the underlying thermal environment. As climate change accelerates, it is becoming increasingly important to not only assess land use and land cover changes (LULCC) but also how surface temperatures are evolving and creating more fragmented thermal refuges over time. This research investigates how the surface thermal environment has changed over time in Phoenix, Arizona, USA, a desert city in the southwestern United States, and how the spatial patterns of cooler refuges within the heat landscape, or “heatscape,” may be affecting wildlife habitat availability alongside LULCC. We quantify the structural and functional connectivity of thermal refuges using a suite of connectivity metrics from landscape ecology to demonstrate how the spatial distribution and configuration of these critical areas has changed over the last 35 years and what the implications are for the many wildlife species living in this desert environment. Results show that thermal refuge patches have been shrinking and becoming more fragmented over the past 35 years, with connectivity also declining over the same period. A key inflection point was identified in 2000, when the probability that cooler refuges patches were connected dropped to nearly zero, and it has remained at that low level ever since. These shifts in connectivity are tightly coupled with LULCC in the study area, particularly the loss of irrigated agriculture as it has been replaced by residential and other developed land uses over time. Decreasing water security in the region also threatens to reduce the availability of cooler patches and, simultaneously, the connectivity of those refuges. Introducing cooler patches through engineered materials or artificial shade may help offset some of the losses from irrigated lands. The findings offer a perspective for conservation research with implications for advancing a more formal thermal landscape ecology for understanding and improving the relationship between spatial thermal patterns and ecological processes. Full article

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 10755 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessing the Impact of Amazonian Fires on Atmospheric NO₂ Using Satellite Data

by Humberto Alves Barbosa and Catarina de Oliveira Buriti

Land 2025, 14(3), 482; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14030482 - 26 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1651

Abstract

In the Amazon region, the impact of fire on the region’s biogeochemical processes remains poorly understood. In this study, we examined the relationship of seasonal fire on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions over the study region during the last two decades of the 21st [...] Read more.

In the Amazon region, the impact of fire on the region’s biogeochemical processes remains poorly understood. In this study, we examined the relationship of seasonal fire on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions over the study region during the last two decades of the 21st century by integrating calibrated and validated satellite-derived products of estimations of burned biomass area, land cover, vegetation greenness, rainfall, carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) through geospatial techniques. Results revealed a strong impact of fire activity on GHG emissions, with abrupt changes in CO and NO₂ emission factors between early- and middle-dry-season fires (July–September). We found a strong positive correlation (r² = 0.71) between NO₂ and burned biomass when a small percentage of burned biomass (around ≤ 0.5%) is released during a fire. However, in the event of a large percentage of burned biomass (>0.8%), the correlation coefficient between NO₂ and burned biomass was weak (r² = 0.41). New models need to be developed that incorporate the substantial existing knowledge on the seasonal dynamics of fire-derived GHG emissions. This information should be utilized to make effective decisions about how to manage fire in the Amazon ecosystems and to drive further data collection campaigns and modelling initiatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land Use Effects on Carbon Storage and Greenhouse Gas Emissions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 6524 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Global Pattern of Vegetation Homogeneity and Its Impact on Land Surface Temperature

by Ehsan Rahimi, Pinliang Dong and Chuleui Jung

Land 2025, 14(2), 421; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14020421 - 17 Feb 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1630

Abstract

Recent advancements in texture-based metrics have improved the representation of landscape heterogeneity, yet global-scale analyses of the relationship between vegetation homogeneity and land surface temperature (LST) remain limited. This study addresses this gap by examining the correlation between Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI)-derived texture [...] Read more.

Recent advancements in texture-based metrics have improved the representation of landscape heterogeneity, yet global-scale analyses of the relationship between vegetation homogeneity and land surface temperature (LST) remain limited. This study addresses this gap by examining the correlation between Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI)-derived texture metrics and LST worldwide. We used texture-based metrics from the EVI to assess landscape homogeneity, with LST data from the 2015 MODIS MOD11A1 V6.1 product at a 1 km spatial resolution. Correlation analyses and nonlinear regression models were applied to explore how EVI homogeneity relates to LST across latitudes. Our findings reveal a significant positive correlation between EVI homogeneity and LST, with the strongest association in the Northern Hemisphere (R² = 49.3%), followed by a moderate relationship in the Southern Hemisphere (R² = 21.1%). In tropical regions (−10° to 10° latitudes), the association is weaker but still significant (R² = 15.1%). The distribution of EVI homogeneity follows a Gaussian curve, peaking in mid-latitudes (from −35° to −15° in the Southern Hemisphere and from 15° to 35° in the Northern Hemisphere), while tropical regions exhibit consistently low homogeneity with minimal variation. Our results indicate that regions with higher EVI homogeneity, representing less fragmented vegetation, tend to experience higher LST, whereas areas with more fragmented vegetation (lower homogeneity) exhibit cooler temperatures. Our findings offer valuable insights into the role of vegetation structure in regulating surface temperature across diverse ecosystems. The study highlights the potential for texture-based metrics to enhance environmental monitoring, contributing to improved climate adaptation strategies and sustainable land management practices globally. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Remote Sensing and GIS for Monitoring Land Use Change and Its Ecological Effects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 3107 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Invasion Patterns of the Coypu, Myocastor coypus, in Western Central Greece: New Records Reveal Expanding Range, Emerging Hotspots, and Habitat Preferences

by Yiannis G. Zevgolis, Alexandros D. Kouris, Stylianos P. Zannetos, Ioannis Selimas, Themistoklis D. Kontos, Apostolos Christopoulos, Panayiotis G. Dimitrakopoulos and Triantaphyllos Akriotis

Land 2025, 14(2), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14020365 - 10 Feb 2025

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4565

Abstract

The coypu (Myocastor coypus), a semi-aquatic rodent native to South America, has established invasive populations across North America, Asia, and Europe. In Greece, since its initial recording in 1965, the species has been rapidly expanding, forming sizable populations in northern continental [...] Read more.

The coypu (Myocastor coypus), a semi-aquatic rodent native to South America, has established invasive populations across North America, Asia, and Europe. In Greece, since its initial recording in 1965, the species has been rapidly expanding, forming sizable populations in northern continental regions. However, the extent of its invasion and the environmental drivers shaping its distribution and spatial patterns in western–central Greece remain poorly understood. Here, we address this knowledge gap, aiming to identify and map new coypu records, investigate the relationship between coypu presence and habitat characteristics, and analyze its spatial distribution. Between 2020 and 2023, we conducted 50 field surveys across the study area, documenting direct and indirect evidence of coypu presence. We integrated kernel density estimation, Getis-Ord Gi*, and Anselin local Moran’s I to identify spatial distribution patterns and hotspots of the coypu. Additionally, we analyzed environmental factors including land cover type, total productivity, and geomorphological features to determine their influence on habitat selection. Our findings reveal significant spatial clustering of coypus, with 12 identified hotspots primarily located in protected areas, and highlight tree cover density and productivity variability as key predictors of coypu presence. The suitability of western–central Greece for the coypu appears to be driven by extensive wetlands and interconnected hydrological systems, with hotspots concentrated in lowland agricultural landscapes, providing essential data to guide targeted management strategies for mitigating the ecological risks posed by this invasive species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Wildlife Conservation and Habitat Management in the Anthropocene)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1087 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Drifting Past Policy Coherence? Rhetoric and Realities of the Mexican Sembrando Vida Program’s Sustainability Goals

by Sofia Mardero, Birgit Schmook, Sophie Calmé, Grecia Casanova and Rehema M. White

Land 2025, 14(2), 278; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14020278 - 29 Jan 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 6775

Abstract

Global and interconnected sustainability challenges require systems thinking and policy coherence to support bold and coordinated action. To chart a course for action, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a suite of targets across international and national levels. Here, we explore intentions [...] Read more.

Global and interconnected sustainability challenges require systems thinking and policy coherence to support bold and coordinated action. To chart a course for action, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a suite of targets across international and national levels. Here, we explore intentions and contributions over time of the Mexican multifaceted rural-development program Sembrando Vida (SV) to the SDGs, to assess its policy coherence for sustainable development, especially in relation to climate change. We reviewed online documents and newspaper articles, interviewed key SV staff and analyzed the Mexican President’s morning conference speeches. We show that multiplicity and adaptation of stated intentions suggest opportunistic forms of policy drift with limited policy coherence. The potential of the SV program remains promising, but it requires clearer objectives, coherent strategy, expert knowledge, community support and evaluation. These results demonstrate how political context can cause policy drift and negatively impact intended policy coherence for sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role Played by Agriculture in Inland Areas)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 7231 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

From Landscape Architecture to Nature-Based Solutions: A Strategic Approach to Fine Dust Mitigation in Urban School Forests

by Youngsun Seok, Kihwan Song, Jinhyung Chon and Yun Eui Choi

Land 2025, 14(2), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14020281 - 29 Jan 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4361

Abstract

Urban areas face increasing environmental challenges, including fine dust pollution and climate change, which significantly impact public health and urban resilience. To address these issues, this study explores the integration of Nature-based Solutions (NbSs) and landscape architecture processes to develop a systematic approach [...] Read more.

Urban areas face increasing environmental challenges, including fine dust pollution and climate change, which significantly impact public health and urban resilience. To address these issues, this study explores the integration of Nature-based Solutions (NbSs) and landscape architecture processes to develop a systematic approach for enhancing urban environmental outcomes. Through a comprehensive review of prior studies, the strengths and weaknesses of NbSs and landscape architecture processes were analyzed, leading to the development of the Nature-based Landscape Process (NLP), which synthesizes the key principles of both approaches. The Dongmyeong Elementary School Fine Dust Mitigation Forest Project was analyzed as a case study to evaluate the applicability of the NLP. This project, implemented using traditional landscape processes, was critically reviewed to identify areas where NbS principles could enhance ecological, social, and functional outcomes. The findings highlight how the integration of NbS principles into landscape architecture processes can address existing gaps and improve project sustainability and precision. This study provides practical insights into the application of the NLP in urban landscape projects, contributing to the development of strategies that align with long-term sustainability and climate adaptation goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Adaptation Planning in Urban Areas)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 6295 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sustaining the Fabric of Time: Urban Heritage, Time Rupture, and Sustainable Development

by Kaixuan Wang and Kalliopi Fouseki

Land 2025, 14(1), 193; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14010193 - 18 Jan 2025

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4306

Abstract

This paper explores the concept of time rupture, i.e., the disruption of historical continuity caused by rapid urbanization, and its implications for urban heritage preservation, using Dongjiadu in Shanghai as a case study. Time rupture highlights the disconnection between modern development and cultural [...] Read more.

This paper explores the concept of time rupture, i.e., the disruption of historical continuity caused by rapid urbanization, and its implications for urban heritage preservation, using Dongjiadu in Shanghai as a case study. Time rupture highlights the disconnection between modern development and cultural heritage, often diluting local identity and a sense of place. While it presents challenges to the continuity of urban heritage, it also creates opportunities to redefine historical narratives and enrich cultural meaning. By introducing a temporal framework, this study examines the dynamic interplay between heritage preservation and modernity, advocating for adaptive, context-sensitive strategies that move beyond static conservation methods. These strategies acknowledge the fragmented overlaps of urban timelines, ensuring that heritage sites remain vibrant, living components of urban environments. The Dongjiadu case illustrates two distinct categories of time rupture, underscoring the need for sustainable practices that harmonize cultural continuity with contemporary growth. The discussion emphasizes the importance of inclusive practices, community engagement, and the critical integration of technological advancements to address time rupture effectively. By incorporating a temporal perspective into heritage conservation, it is possible to bridge historical continuity and modern development, foster resilience in urban environments, and enable cities to adapt to rapid change while retaining their cultural essence. Ultimately, addressing time rupture through thoughtful, adaptive strategies ensures that urban heritage actively contributes to the sustainability and vitality of evolving cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preservation, Reuse and Reveal of Cultural Heritage Through Sustainable Land Management, Rural and Urban Development (Third Edition))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

47 pages, 7369 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

A Review: Potential of Earth Observation (EO) for Mapping Small-Scale Agriculture and Cropping Systems in West Africa

by Niklas Heiss, Jonas Meier, Ursula Gessner and Claudia Kuenzer

Land 2025, 14(1), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14010171 - 15 Jan 2025

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6720

Abstract

West Africa faces a complex range of challenges arising from climatic, social, economic, and ecological factors, which pose significant risks. The rapidly growing population, coupled with persistently low agricultural yield, further exacerbates these risks. A state-of-the-art monitoring and data derivation of agricultural systems [...] Read more.

West Africa faces a complex range of challenges arising from climatic, social, economic, and ecological factors, which pose significant risks. The rapidly growing population, coupled with persistently low agricultural yield, further exacerbates these risks. A state-of-the-art monitoring and data derivation of agricultural systems are crucial for improving livelihoods and enhancing food security. Despite smallholder farming systems accounting for 80% of cultivated cropland area and providing about 42% of the total employment in West Africa, there exists a lack of a comprehensive overview of Remote Sensing (RS) products and studies specifically tailored to smallholder farming systems, which this review aims to address. Through a systematic literature review comprising 163 SCI papers sourced from the Web of Science database (Filter I), followed by a full-text review (Filter II), we analyze the RS sensors, spatiotemporal distribution, temporal scales, the crop types examined, and thematic foci employed in existing research. Our findings highlight the predominance of high to very high-resolution, multispectral sensors as the primary data source and we observe that a wide array of available sensors and datasets, along with increasing computing capacities, have shaped the field over the last years. By highlighting existing knowledge, this study identifies the potential of RS and pinpoints the key research gaps. This sets the stage for future investigations aimed at addressing critical challenges in West African smallholder agricultural systems. Full article

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

30 pages, 4743 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Rapid Landslide Detection Following an Extreme Rainfall Event Using Remote Sensing Indices, Synthetic Aperture Radar Imagery, and Probabilistic Methods

by Aikaterini-Alexandra Chrysafi, Paraskevas Tsangaratos, Ioanna Ilia and Wei Chen

Land 2025, 14(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14010021 - 26 Dec 2024

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4313

Abstract

The rapid detection of landslide phenomena that may be triggered by extreme rainfall events is a critical point concerning timely response and the implementation of mitigation measures. The main goal of the present study is to identify susceptible areas by estimating changes in [...] Read more.

The rapid detection of landslide phenomena that may be triggered by extreme rainfall events is a critical point concerning timely response and the implementation of mitigation measures. The main goal of the present study is to identify susceptible areas by estimating changes in the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Normalized Difference Moisture Index (NDMI), Bare Soil Index (BSI), and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) amplitude ratio before and after extreme rainfall events. The developed methodology was utilized in a case study of Storm Daniel, which struck central Greece in September 2023, with a focus on the Mount Pelion region on the Pelion Peninsula. Using Google Earth Engine, we processed satellite imagery to calculate these indices, enabling the assessment of vegetation health, soil moisture, and exposed soil areas, which are key indicators of landslide activity. The methodology integrates these indices with a Weight of Evidence (WofE) model, previously developed to identify regions of high and very high landslide susceptibility based on morphological parameters like slope, aspect, plan and profile curvature, and stream power index. Pre- and post-event imagery was analyzed to detect changes in the indices, and the results were then masked to focus only on high and very high susceptibility areas characterized by the WofE model. The outcomes of the study indicate significant changes in NDVI, NDMI, BSI values, and SAR amplitude ratio within the masked areas, suggesting locations where landslides were likely to have occurred due to the extreme rainfall event. This rapid detection technique provides essential data for emergency services and disaster management teams, enabling them to prioritize areas for immediate response and recovery efforts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Remote Sensing Application in Landslide Detection and Assessment)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 8697 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Matching Trees to Streets by Street Type: A Case Study of Street Tree Suitability and Services in a Highly Urbanized City

by Heejung Nam, Seunghyun Hong, Dohyuk Im, Ayun Maeng, Sunmi Je, Wanmo Kang and Hanna Chang

Land 2024, 13(12), 2079; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13122079 - 3 Dec 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4122

Abstract

Street trees are a representative form of urban green space that play an important role in mitigating the environmental impact of urbanization. Planting the right tree in the right place in urban streetscapes can improve tree health and ecosystem services. Here, we propose [...] Read more.

Street trees are a representative form of urban green space that play an important role in mitigating the environmental impact of urbanization. Planting the right tree in the right place in urban streetscapes can improve tree health and ecosystem services. Here, we propose a novel approach to selecting appropriate street trees using street type classifications. In the highly urbanized area of Uijeongbu City, South Korea, 221.9 km of streets with 19,717 street trees were classified into 12 types based on road width, aspect ratio, land use, and the presence of power lines. Appropriate tree species were selected for each street type, taking into account tree traits and functions as well as street environments. Then, we analyzed the structure and ecosystem-regulating services of street trees by type, also comparing the services of appropriate and non-appropriate trees. As a result, all 12 street types were identified, but their distribution was uneven. Tree dimension was the key factor in determining appropriate species, and, for the second most common street type, characterized by narrow roads, low aspect ratios, and power lines, only four appropriate species were identified, indicating an urgent need for more options. Additionally, the most dominant species accounted for over 20%, averaging 44% across the 12 street types, further highlighting the necessity of introducing more diverse tree species. Overall, appropriate street trees generally provided higher service efficiency compared to non-appropriate trees across four ecosystem regulating services. These findings emphasize the need for policies and guidelines that promote street tree diversity and enhance the ecological benefits of street trees. This study provides a foundation for developing sustainable street tree management strategies that contribute to healthier and more resilient urban streetscapes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Ecosystem Services: 5th Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 8272 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Retention Levels and Years-After-Harvesting Influence over Soil Microbial Activity and Biomass in Southern Patagonian Forests

by Santiago Toledo, Guillermo Martínez Pastur, Julián Rodríguez-Souilla and Pablo L. Peri

Land 2024, 13(11), 1963; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13111963 - 20 Nov 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2592

Abstract

Variable retention harvesting (VRH) was designed for timber purposes and biodiversity conservation in natural forests. This system was globally tested, but few studies are related to soil microbial components. The objective was to evaluate different retention types (aggregated and dispersed retention) considering different [...] Read more.

Variable retention harvesting (VRH) was designed for timber purposes and biodiversity conservation in natural forests. This system was globally tested, but few studies are related to soil microbial components. The objective was to evaluate different retention types (aggregated and dispersed retention) considering different years-after-harvesting (6, 9, 16 YAH) on soil microbial community attributes compared with unmanaged primary forests (PF) in Nothofagus pumilio forests of Tierra del Fuego (Argentina). This study also evaluated the influence of climate, soil, and understory vegetation. Results showed that aggregated retention increased microbial biomass carbon (MBC), microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN), and soil basal respiration (SBR) compared to dispersed retention, but with similar values than PF. However, harvested areas decreased MBC/MBN values compared with PF. The results showed an overall decrease in microbial biomass and activity in 9 YAH stands, with a positive recovery at 16 YAH. Soil pH, mean annual temperature, and understory vegetation cover showed a positive relationship with MBC, MBN, and SBR. The recovery after 16 YAH reached to different microbial communities. Therefore, the maintenance of retention components in managed stands for longer periods is needed. The results highlight some advantages of VRH as a tool for conservation of forest-dwelling soil microorganisms, including microbial biomass and activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Forest Landscape Management Towards Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 15708 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoicePerspective

Returning to Integrated Landscape Management as an Approach to Counteract Land Degradation in Small Mediterranean Islands: The Case Study of Stromboli (Southern Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy)

by Rita Biasi, Francesco Valerio Collotti and Stefano Baia Curioni

Land 2024, 13(11), 1949; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13111949 - 19 Nov 2024

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3462

Abstract

The small Mediterranean islands, unique geographical places where coastlines and mountains converge due to volcanic genesis, are among the most threatened environments on Earth. Their marginality, which has historically led to their use as places of detention and punishment, coupled with the extreme [...] Read more.

The small Mediterranean islands, unique geographical places where coastlines and mountains converge due to volcanic genesis, are among the most threatened environments on Earth. Their marginality, which has historically led to their use as places of detention and punishment, coupled with the extreme climate and rugged geomorphology shaped by terracing practices, has resulted in the loss of systematic land management. This loss stems from the abandonment of cropland in favor of alternative activities and migrations, impacting essential ecosystem services such as the water cycle, soil fertility, and the cultural landscape. The need to counteract the land degradation in these vulnerable areas has been acknowledged for some Mediterranean small islands, including the UNESCO heritage site of Stromboli in the Aeolian Islands, Sicily, Italy—an especially captivating location due to its active volcano. The agricultural abandonment on terraces, intensively cultivated with olives groves and vineyards until the mid-20th century, has rendered the area highly fragile and susceptible to risks such as fires and soil erosion, particularly as a consequence of extreme weather events, as proven in 2022, which saw a destructive fire followed by storms. To mitigate the negative effects of hydrogeological disruptions, the implementation of integrated landscape management—managing ecosystems at the landscape level—has been proposed. Specifically, an agroforestry intervention, coupled with the restoration of dry stone walls, the shaping of soil slopes by recovering the traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), and the design of water-collecting devices incorporated with the traditional hydraulic knowledge, may be proposed as a strategic approach to minimize the soil erosion risks, adapt to climate change, and extensively restore the use of traditional agrobiodiversity to support the local economy and tourism. A pilot intervention by local stakeholders based on these principles is described as an emblematic agrobiodiversity-based landscape design project in a vulnerable area, aiming at the preservation of the cultural landscapes of the small Mediterranean islands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Runoff and Soil Erosion in the Mediterranean Region)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 1857 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Water, Ecosystem Services, and Urban Green Spaces in the Anthropocene

by Marianna Olivadese and Maria Luisa Dindo

Land 2024, 13(11), 1948; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13111948 - 19 Nov 2024

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6436

Abstract

As urban centers worldwide face the escalating impacts of climate change, rapid urbanization, and increasing water scarcity, the need for sustainable water management practices to enhance urban resilience in the Anthropocene has become critical. This study explores how ancient water management practices—including Roman [...] Read more.

As urban centers worldwide face the escalating impacts of climate change, rapid urbanization, and increasing water scarcity, the need for sustainable water management practices to enhance urban resilience in the Anthropocene has become critical. This study explores how ancient water management practices—including Roman aqueducts, Maya rainwater harvesting systems, and ancient Chinese flood control techniques—can be adapted to address contemporary water challenges in modern cities. We evaluate these historical practices through a lens of contemporary environmental pressures, including climate change, urbanization, and resource scarcity. By integrating ancient methods with modern technologies, we propose adaptive solutions to enhance urban water resilience. Case studies from five cities (Singapore, Copenhagen, Mexico City, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia) illustrate how modern green infrastructure, inspired by ancient techniques, is being successfully implemented to manage stormwater, mitigate urban flooding, and improve water conservation. By integrating historical practices with modern technologies—such as advanced filtration systems and water recycling—these cities are enhancing their water resilience and sustainability. The findings suggest that urban planners can draw valuable lessons from historical systems to design adaptive, climate-resilient cities that balance human needs with ecological sustainability. This paper concludes with actionable recommendations for future urban planning, emphasizing the importance of decentralized water systems, nature-based solutions, and community engagement to ensure sustainable urban water management in the Anthropocene. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Collection for the International Association for Landscape Ecology (IALE))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 2391 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Temperate Soils Exposed to Drought—Key Processes, Impacts, Indicators, and Unknowns

by Sabine Reinsch, David A. Robinson, Maud A. J. van Soest, Aidan M. Keith, Simon Parry and Andrew M. Tye

Land 2024, 13(11), 1759; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13111759 - 26 Oct 2024

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 8447

Abstract

The summer drought in the United Kingdom (UK) in 2022 produced significant speculation concerning how its termination may impact and interact with the soil resource. Whilst knowledge regarding soils and droughts exists in the scientific literature, a coherent understanding of the wider range [...] Read more.

The summer drought in the United Kingdom (UK) in 2022 produced significant speculation concerning how its termination may impact and interact with the soil resource. Whilst knowledge regarding soils and droughts exists in the scientific literature, a coherent understanding of the wider range of impacts on soil properties and functions has not been compiled for temperate soils. Here, we draw together knowledge from studies in the UK and other temperate countries to understand how soils respond to drought, and importantly what and where our knowledge gaps are. First, we define the different types of droughts and their frequency in the UK and provide a brief overview on the likely societal impacts that droughts place on the soil and related ecosystems. Our focus is on ‘agricultural and ecosystem drought’, as this is when soils experience dry periods affecting crops and ecosystem function, followed by rewetting. The behaviour of moisture in soils and the key processes that contribute to its storage and transport are examined. The principal changes in the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils resulting from drought, and rewetting (i.e., drought termination) are discussed and their extensive interactions are demonstrated. Processes that are involved in the rewetting of soils are explored for soil and catchment-scale soil responses. Lastly, soils’ recovery after drought is considered, knowledge gaps are identified, and areas to improve understanding are highlighted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Celebrating 30 Years of International Day against Desertification, and Drought)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 4739 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Agroecology for the City—Spatialising ES-Based Design in Peri-Urban Contexts

by Richard Morris, Shannon Davis, Gwen-Aëlle Grelet and Pablo Gregorini

Land 2024, 13(10), 1589; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101589 - 30 Sep 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3113

Abstract

The design of urban systems that allow growth while also maximising ecosystem services is identified as an important priority for creating a Good Anthropocene. An ecosystem service (ES)-based approach to landscape interventions maximises the provision of ESs, and in doing so, repairs and [...] Read more.

The design of urban systems that allow growth while also maximising ecosystem services is identified as an important priority for creating a Good Anthropocene. An ecosystem service (ES)-based approach to landscape interventions maximises the provision of ESs, and in doing so, repairs and reinforces threatened ecological planetary boundaries. As an urbanising planet, cities are critical frontiers of human interaction with these planetary boundaries, and therefore a critical arena for ES-based intervention. Globally, the predominant pattern of urbanisation is dedensification, an outwardly expanding trend where cities are growing in physical extent at a higher rate than their population growth. We therefore require spatially explicit tools capable of reconciling dedensification and Good Anthropocene visions. We propose a methodology that integrates agroecology and urbanisation and is focussed specifically on the supply of targeted regulating ESs. This ‘Agroecology for the City’ differs from conventional urban agriculture discourse and its preoccupation with food security. Our research interest is agroecological farm systems’ (AFSs) capacity to provide critical life support services in a spatially effective manner to urban systems. Our recent research introduced a new GIS-based model (ESMAX) and a spatial agroecology approach that identified AFS configurations at a 1 ha scale which maximised the supply of three regulating ESs, as well as multifunctional performance across all three ESs combined. In the present research, we apply this process at a larger scale, with 1 ha and 4 ha AFS parcels being integrated with a real-world 200 ha peri-urban residential development. The AFS parcels and built-up areas are configured differently to maximise the supply of ESs identified as critical by the local community. We found that arrangements with AFS parcels interspersed evenly with built-up areas provided the best multifunctionality across the four ESs tested. This supports pathways for a Good Anthropocene that work with the global urbanising reality of dedensification and underpin the need for a hybrid science of rural/urban systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Ecosystem Services: 5th Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 7347 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Wetlands in Crisis: The Silent Desertification Threat on the Greek Wetlands

by Anastasios Zotos, Ioannis P. Kokkoris, Ioannis Charalampopoulos, Eleni S. Bekri and Panayotis Dimopoulos

Land 2024, 13(10), 1567; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101567 - 26 Sep 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3856

Abstract

This study deals with the information gap on desertification risk for wetland habitat types in Natura 2000 network sites of Greece. Using the Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) index as a proxy, all Natura 2000 wetland habitat types have been assessed and assigned to [...] Read more.

This study deals with the information gap on desertification risk for wetland habitat types in Natura 2000 network sites of Greece. Using the Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) index as a proxy, all Natura 2000 wetland habitat types have been assessed and assigned to desertification risk categories. The assessment was conducted at the national, regional, and local scales in order to provide different outcomes for targeted support on decision and policy making regarding restoration and conservation measures. The main results document that circa 20% of wetland habitat types area are considered under desertification risk, while circa 10% are considered as potentially affected by desertification. It was also shown that there should be prioritization of the habitat types that need attention due to their inclusion in the different desertification risk categories. The study also highlights the administrative regions (NUTS2) and Natura 2000 sites and the need to structure, draft, and implement conservation projects to mitigate wetlands’ risk as well as the use of wetlands as primary nature-based solutions (NbS) in the battle with desertification and climate change. Management implications are also provided from the perspective of habitat restoration as well as for their exploitation as valuable NbS for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services maintenance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soils and Land Management under Climate Change)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 28717 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessing Land-Cover Change Trends, Patterns, and Transitions in Coalfield Counties of Eastern Kentucky, USA

by Suraj K C, Buddhi R. Gyawali, Shawn Lucas, George F. Antonious, Anuj Chiluwal and Demetrio Zourarakis

Land 2024, 13(9), 1541; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13091541 - 23 Sep 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4617

Abstract

Surface coal mining and reclamation have greatly reshaped eastern Kentucky’s landscape affecting its socioeconomic, environmental and climatic aspects. This study examined the land-cover changes, trends and patterns in Floyd, Knott, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Perry, and Pike counties from 2004 to 2019. Using a [...] Read more.

Surface coal mining and reclamation have greatly reshaped eastern Kentucky’s landscape affecting its socioeconomic, environmental and climatic aspects. This study examined the land-cover changes, trends and patterns in Floyd, Knott, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Perry, and Pike counties from 2004 to 2019. Using a random forest classifier, land cover was categorized into seven major classes, i.e., water, barren land, developed land, forest, shrubland, herbaceous, and planted/cultivated, majorly based on Landsat images. The Kappa accuracy ranged from 75 to 89%. The results showed a notable increase in forest area from 5052 sq km to 5305 sq km accompanied by a substantial decrease in barren land from 179 sq km to 91 sq km from 2004 to 2019. These findings demonstrated that reclamation activities positively impacted the forest expansion and reduced the barren land of the study area. Key land-cover transitions included barren land to shrubland/herbaceous, forest to shrubland, and shrubland to forest, indicating vegetation growth from 2004 to 2019. An autocorrelation analysis indicated similar land-cover types clustered together, showing effective forest restoration efforts. As surface coal mining and reclamation significantly influenced the landscapes of the coalfield counties in eastern Kentucky, this study provides a holistic perspective for understanding the repercussions of these transformations, including their effects on humans, society, and environmental health. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 7046 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Urban Greening Management Arrangements between Municipalities and Citizens for Effective Climate Adaptation Pathways: Four Case Studies from The Netherlands

by Sara Romero-Muñoz, Teresa Sánchez-Chaparro, Víctor Muñoz Sanz and Nico Tillie

Land 2024, 13(9), 1414; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13091414 - 2 Sep 2024

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 7000

Abstract

The transition towards nature-based cities has increasingly become a central focus in political–environmental agendas and urban design practices, aiming to enhance climate adaptation, urban biodiversity, spatial equilibrium, and social well-being as part of the ongoing socio-ecological urban transition process. Climate adaptation in cities [...] Read more.

The transition towards nature-based cities has increasingly become a central focus in political–environmental agendas and urban design practices, aiming to enhance climate adaptation, urban biodiversity, spatial equilibrium, and social well-being as part of the ongoing socio-ecological urban transition process. Climate adaptation in cities is a complex problem and one of the main collective challenges for society, but the relationships between city managers and citizens as to urban green care still face many challenges. Parks design guided by technical-expert and globalised criteria; inflexibility from bureaucratic inertia; and citizens’ demands to participate in the urban green transition, sometimes without the necessary knowledge or time, are some of the challenges that require further research. In this study, we examine four long-lasting approaches to green-space management in four cities in the Netherlands, ranging from municipality-driven to community-driven management forms, and encompassing diverse spatial configurations of greenery within the urban fabric. Utilising the theoretical lens of the Social–Ecological Systems Framework, we employ a multiple-case-study approach and ethnographic fieldwork analysis to gain a comprehensive understanding of the norms, collective-choice rules, and social conventions embodied in each urban green management arrangement. The purpose of this research is applied, that is, to provide urban managers and decision-makers with a deeper understanding of drivers to promote effective collaborative management approaches, focusing on specific organisational rules that may contribute to more sustained planning and maintenance pathways for urban green spaces, regardless of changes in political leadership or significant external funding sources. The results of the investigated cases show that long-lasting collaborative management of forests and parks has established a set of collective-choice rules for resource transfer between municipalities and citizens, including non-monetary resources (such as pruning-training courses or guided tours that attract tourists and researchers). Additionally, these arrangements have been favoured by the existence of legal norms that enable co-ownership of the land, and monitoring and sanctioning mechanisms that offer a slightly different interpretation from the evidence identified so far in the scientific literature on collective resource management and organisational studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Green Spaces: An Effective Tool to Regulate Urban Climate and Biodiversity)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 6393 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessing the Impact of Land Conversion on Carbon Stocks and GHG Emissions

by Ima Ituen and Baoxin Hu

Land 2024, 13(8), 1291; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13081291 - 15 Aug 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4163

Abstract

With the recent thrust to convert forests in Ontario’s Clay Belt to agricultural land, a vital need arises to assess the attendant effects on carbon and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This paper examines the possible effect of land conversion on soil organic carbon [...] Read more.

With the recent thrust to convert forests in Ontario’s Clay Belt to agricultural land, a vital need arises to assess the attendant effects on carbon and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This paper examines the possible effect of land conversion on soil organic carbon and GHG emissions within a study area in Northern Ontario, Canada, during the next two decades under different land management schemes. The study established a framework to conduct simulations with the DNDC model for agricultural lands and the CBM for forested areas. The methodology involves a unique change detection method for models’ land cover and disturbance inputs. The work highlights the improvement in carbon simulation accuracy from better inputs to carbon models. Furthermore, it addresses modalities to ensure fewer uncertainties are introduced while merging data from multiple geospatial data sources. The simulations demonstrated that the carbon sequestration potential in the forests was almost double the soil organic carbon accumulation in the agricultural lands. Validations done for the estimation of carbon sequestered included comparisons of the carbon model outputs from field survey data from 2018–2021. In most sites, the carbon amounts from the computer models compared to those from the field survey, within limits of error. The average uncertainties in GHG emissions ranged from ~0.5% to 12.8%. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 3265 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Urban Green Infrastructure Connectivity: The Role of Private Semi-Natural Areas

by Raihan Jamil, Jason P. Julian, Jennifer L. R. Jensen and Kimberly M. Meitzen

Land 2024, 13(8), 1213; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13081213 - 6 Aug 2024

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 9366

Abstract

Green spaces and blue spaces in cities provide a wealth of benefits to the urban social–ecological system. Unfortunately, urban development fragments natural habitats, reducing connectivity and biodiversity. Urban green–blue infrastructure (UGI) networks can mitigate these effects by providing ecological corridors that enhance habitat [...] Read more.

Green spaces and blue spaces in cities provide a wealth of benefits to the urban social–ecological system. Unfortunately, urban development fragments natural habitats, reducing connectivity and biodiversity. Urban green–blue infrastructure (UGI) networks can mitigate these effects by providing ecological corridors that enhance habitat connectivity. This study examined UGI connectivity for two indicator species in a rapidly developing city in the southern United States. We mapped and analyzed UGI at a high resolution (0.6 m) across the entire city, with a focus on semi-natural areas in private land and residential neighborhoods. Integrating graph theory and a gravity model, we assessed structural UGI networks and ranked them based on their ability to support functional connectivity. Most of the potential habitat corridors we mapped in this project traversed private lands, including 58% of the priority habitat for the Golden-cheeked Warbler and 69% of the priority habitat for the Rio Grande Wild Turkey. Riparian zones and other areas with dense tree cover were critical linkages in these habitat corridors. Our findings illustrate the important role that private semi-natural areas play in UGI, habitat connectivity, and essential ecosystem services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Managing Urban Green Infrastructure and Ecosystem Services)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 22407 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Analysing Land Cover Change in the Valencian Community through Landsat Imagery: From 1984 to 2022

by Jose Antonio Sobrino, Sergio Gimeno, Virginia Crisafulli and Álvaro Sobrino-Gómez

Land 2024, 13(7), 1072; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13071072 - 17 Jul 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4382

Abstract

Land cover change represents one of the most significant global transformations, which has profound impacts on ecosystems, biological diversity, and the ongoing climate crisis. In this study, our objective was to analyse land cover transformation in the Valencian Community over the last four [...] Read more.

Land cover change represents one of the most significant global transformations, which has profound impacts on ecosystems, biological diversity, and the ongoing climate crisis. In this study, our objective was to analyse land cover transformation in the Valencian Community over the last four decades. Utilising Landsat 5, 8, and 9 summer images, a Random Forest algorithm renowned for its ability to handle large datasets and complex variables, was employed to produce land cover classifications consisting of five categories: ‘Urban Areas’, ‘Dense Vegetation’, ‘Sparse Vegetation’, ‘Water Bodies’, and Other’. The results were validated through in situ measurements comparing with pre-existing products and utilising a confusion matrix. Over the study period, the urban area practically doubled, increasing from approximately 482 to 940 square kilometres. This expansion was concentrated mainly in the proximity of the already existing urban zone and occurred primarily between 1985 and 1990. The Dense and Sparse Vegetation classes exhibit substantial fluctuations over the years, displaying a subtle trend towards a decrease in their cumulative value. Water bodies and Other classes do not show substantial changes over the years. The Random Forest algorithm showed a high Overall Accuracy (OA) of 95% and Kappa values of 93%, showing good agreement with field measurements (88% OA), ESA World Cover (80% OA), and the Copernicus Global Land Service Land Cover Map (73% OA), confirming the effectiveness of this methodology in generating land cover classifications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land Use Mapping as the Base for Modeling and Earth Oriented Digital Twins)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 23675 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Monitoring Sustainable Development Goal Indicator 15.3.1 on Land Degradation Using SEPAL: Examples, Challenges and Prospects

by Amit Ghosh, Pierrick Rambaud, Yelena Finegold, Inge Jonckheere, Pablo Martin-Ortega, Rashed Jalal, Adebowale Daniel Adebayo, Ana Alvarez, Martin Borretti, Jose Caela, Tuhin Ghosh, Erik Lindquist and Matieu Henry

Land 2024, 13(7), 1027; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13071027 - 9 Jul 2024

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 6971

Abstract

A third of the world’s ecosystems are considered degraded, and there is an urgent need for protection and restoration to make the planet healthier. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) target 15.3 aims at protecting and restoring the terrestrial ecosystem to achieve a land [...] Read more.

A third of the world’s ecosystems are considered degraded, and there is an urgent need for protection and restoration to make the planet healthier. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) target 15.3 aims at protecting and restoring the terrestrial ecosystem to achieve a land degradation-neutral world by 2030. Land restoration through inclusive and productive growth is indispensable to promote sustainable development by fostering climate change-resistant, poverty-alleviating, and environmentally protective economic growth. The SDG Indicator 15.3.1 is used to measure progress towards a land degradation-neutral world. Earth observation datasets are the primary data sources for deriving the three sub-indicators of indicator 15.3.1. It requires selecting, querying, and processing a substantial historical archive of data. To reduce the complexities, make the calculation user-friendly, and adapt it to in-country applications, a module on the FAO’s SEPAL platform has been developed in compliance with the UNCCD Good Practice Guidance (GPG v2) to derive the necessary statistics and maps for monitoring and reporting land degradation. The module uses satellite data from Landsat, Sentinel 2, and MODIS sensors for primary productivity assessment, along with other datasets enabling high-resolution to large-scale assessment of land degradation. The use of an in-country land cover transition matrix along with in-country land cover data enables a more accurate assessment of land cover changes over time. Four different case studies from Bangladesh, Nigeria, Uruguay, and Angola are presented to highlight the prospect and challenges of monitoring land degradation using various datasets, including LCML-based national land cover legend and land cover data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Land – Observation and Monitoring)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 10341 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Typhoon-Induced Forest Damage Mapping in the Philippines Using Landsat and PlanetScope Images

by Benjamin Jonah Perez Magallon and Satoshi Tsuyuki

Land 2024, 13(7), 1031; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13071031 - 9 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 7065

Abstract

Forests provide valuable resources for households in the Philippines, particularly in poor and upland communities. This makes forests an integral part of building resilient communities. This relationship became complex during extreme events such as typhoon occurrence as forests can be a contributor to [...] Read more.

Forests provide valuable resources for households in the Philippines, particularly in poor and upland communities. This makes forests an integral part of building resilient communities. This relationship became complex during extreme events such as typhoon occurrence as forests can be a contributor to the intensity and impact of disasters. However, little attention has been paid to forest cover losses due to typhoons during disaster assessments. In this study, forest damage caused by typhoons was measured using harmonic analysis of time series (HANTS) with Landsat-8 Operation Land Imager (OLI) images. The ΔHarmonic Vegetation Index was computed by calculating the difference between HANTS and the actual observed vegetation index value. This was used to identify damaged areas in the forest regions and create a damage map. To validate the reliability of the results, the resulting maps produced using ΔHarmonic VI were compared with the damage mapped from PlanetScope’s high-resolution pre- and post-typhoon images. The method achieved an overall accuracy of 69.20%. The accuracy of the results was comparable to the traditional remote sensing techniques used in forest damage assessment, such as ΔVI and land cover change detection. To further the understanding of the relationship between forest and typhoon occurrence, the presence of time lag in the observations was investigated. Additionally, different contributing factors in forest damage were identified. Most of the forest damage observed was in forest areas with slopes facing the typhoon direction and in vulnerable areas such as near the coast and hill tops. This study will help the government and forest management sectors preserve forests, which will ultimately result in the development of a more resilient community, by making it easier to identify forest areas that are vulnerable to typhoon damage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geospatial Data in Landscape Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 19132 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Urban Geomorphology Methods and Applications as a Guideline for Understanding the City Environment

by Alessia Pica, Luca Lämmle, Martina Burnelli, Maurizio Del Monte, Carlo Donadio, Francesco Faccini, Maurizio Lazzari, Andrea Mandarino, Laura Melelli, Archimedes Perez Filho, Filippo Russo, Leonidas Stamatopoulos, Corrado Stanislao and Pierluigi Brandolini

Land 2024, 13(7), 907; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13070907 - 22 Jun 2024

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 6959

Abstract

Cities all over the world have developed on different geological-geomorphological substrates. Different kinds of human activities have operated for millennia as geomorphic agents, generating numerous and various erosion landforms and huge anthropogenic deposits. Considering the increasing demand for land and the expansion of [...] Read more.

Cities all over the world have developed on different geological-geomorphological substrates. Different kinds of human activities have operated for millennia as geomorphic agents, generating numerous and various erosion landforms and huge anthropogenic deposits. Considering the increasing demand for land and the expansion of the built-up areas involving and disturbing any kind of natural system inside and surrounding the actual urban areas, it is not negligible how important the dynamics of the urban environment and its physical evolution are. In this context, this manuscript addresses insights into eight case studies of urban geomorphological analyses of cities in Italy, Greece, and Brazil. The studies are based on surveying and mapping geomorphological processes and landforms in urban areas, supporting both geo-hazard assessment, historical evolution, and paleomorphologies, as well as disseminating knowledge of urban geoheritage and educating about the anthropogenic impact on urban sustainability. We hypothesize that urban geomorphological analysis of several case studies addresses the physical environment of modern cities in a multi-temporal, multidisciplinary, and critical way concerning global changes. Thus, this study aims to illustrate and propose a novel approach to urban geomorphological investigation as a model for the understanding and planning of the physical urban environment on a European and global scale. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Urban Contexts and Urban-Rural Interactions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Editor’s Choice Articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI