Land | October 2024 - Browse Articles

31 pages, 29282 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of a “Social‒Ecological” System Pattern from the Perspective of Ecosystem Service Supply and Demand: A Case Study of Jilin Province

by Yuchi Cai, Hong Li and Wancong Li

Land 2024, 13(10), 1716; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101716 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study establishes and refines a social-landscape ecological security pattern that integrates the demand and supply of ecosystem services, providing a substantial foundation for the ecological restoration of territorial spaces. This foundation is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of “social–ecological” systems in achieving [...] Read more.

This study establishes and refines a social-landscape ecological security pattern that integrates the demand and supply of ecosystem services, providing a substantial foundation for the ecological restoration of territorial spaces. This foundation is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of “social–ecological” systems in achieving sustainable development. Jilin Province, serving as a national ecological security buffer and experiencing rapid economic growth, exhibits a significant spatial imbalance between social and economic progress and ecological conservation. The balance of ecosystem service demand and supply is pivotal in this context, making Jilin Province an ideal study area. We employed a multifaceted approach, including MSPA, the InVEST model, landscape connectivity assessment, circuit theory, and ecological network integrity evaluation, to elucidate the spatial disparities between the demand and supply of ecosystem services. We then developed and optimized social and landscape ecological security patterns to meet human demands and safeguard ecological integrity, thereby promoting the sustainable development of “social–ecological” systems. The key findings are as follows: (1) The supply of ecosystem services shows a clear spatial gradient, with lower values in the west and higher in the east, while demand is concentrated in the central region with lower values in the east and west, indicating a pronounced spatial mismatch in Jilin Province. (2) The landscape ecological security pattern includes 18 barrier points, 33 pinch points, 166 ecological corridors, and 101 ecological sources. (3) The social–ecological security pattern comprises 119 demand sources and 150 supply–demand corridors. (4) The study introduces 14 supply–demand nodes and 47 optimization corridors, proposing zoning schemes for the eastern core protection area, the central ecological demand area, and the western core restoration area. Additionally, recommendations are concerning the optimization of the “social–ecological” system pattern. This research advances the theoretical understanding of “social–ecological” system development in Jilin Province and offers insights for more harmonized development strategies. Full article

20 pages, 13094 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vertical Plant Configuration: Its Impact on Microclimate and Thermal Comfort in Urban Small Green Spaces

by Fuhao Sun, Junhua Zhang, Shiro Takeda, Jingshu Cui and Ruochen Yang

Land 2024, 13(10), 1715; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101715 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024

Abstract

The presence of small green spaces throughout high-density urban areas is essential for enhancing thermal comfort and combating the urban heat island effect. Extensive research has been conducted on plants, which play a key role in cooling green spaces. However, the majority of [...] Read more.

The presence of small green spaces throughout high-density urban areas is essential for enhancing thermal comfort and combating the urban heat island effect. Extensive research has been conducted on plants, which play a key role in cooling green spaces. However, the majority of research focuses on trees, overlooking the efficiency of vertical plant configurations, especially shrubs. Hence, this paper selected a typical small green space in Tokyo’s high-density urban area and employed scenario simulation to examine how various vertical plant configurations impact the microclimate and thermal comfort of small green spaces, with a particular emphasis on quantifying the efficiency of shrubs. The research primarily discovered four findings. First, trees significantly outperform shrubs in improving thermal comfort, especially during periods of strong sunlight during the day, leading to a direct modification of the thermal comfort levels. Second, while shrubs (height < 2 m) usually do not make a substantial difference in the overall thermal comfort levels of small green spaces, they are effective in reducing areas classified as “hot” and “very hot” during the day, with their cooling effect becoming more pronounced in the late afternoon. Third, when small green spaces combine trees and shrubs in their plant configuration, taller shrubs (within 0–2 m) exhibit a more pronounced cooling effect and improvement in thermal comfort. The conclusions of this study could offer guidance for the planning, design, and renovation of small green spaces in high-density urban areas. Full article

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16 pages, 2837 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Transition to Close-to-Nature Forestry on Growing Stock, Wood Increment and Harvest Possibilities of Forests in Slovakia

by Martina Štěrbová, Ivan Barka, Ladislav Kulla and Joerg Roessiger

Land 2024, 13(10), 1714; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101714 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024

Abstract

The aim of the study is to quantify the impacts of a possible transition to close-to-nature forestry in Slovakia and to compare the expected development of the total volume production, growing stock, merchantable wood increment and harvesting possibilities of forests in Slovakia with [...] Read more.

The aim of the study is to quantify the impacts of a possible transition to close-to-nature forestry in Slovakia and to compare the expected development of the total volume production, growing stock, merchantable wood increment and harvesting possibilities of forests in Slovakia with current conventional management using the FCarbon forest-growth model and available data from the Information System of Forest Management. The subject of the study was all forest stands available for wood supply (FAWS). The simulations were run in annual iterations using tree input data aggregated over 10-year-wide age classes. The calculation of wood increments was based on available growth models. In the business-as-usual (BAU) scenario, stock losses were based on the actual intensity of wood harvesting in the reference period 2013–2022. In the scenario of the transition to close-to-nature forest management, the losses were specifically modified from the usual harvesting regime at the beginning, to the target harvesting mode in selective forest at the end of the simulated period. With the modelling method used, a gradual increase in forest stocks occurred in both evaluated scenarios in the monitored period, namely by 10% in the case of BAU and by 23% in the case of close-to-nature forest management until 2050. In absolute mining volume, CTNF is by 5–10% lower than BAU management, with the difference gradually decreasing. The results show that the introduction of close-to-nature forest management will temporarily reduce the supply of wood to the market, but this reduction will not be significant and will be compensated by a higher total volume production, and thus also by increased carbon storage in forests. Full article

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17 pages, 3324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Interplay Between Network Position and Knowledge Production of Cities in China Based on Patent Measurement

by Jie Zhang, Bindong Sun and Chuanyang Wang

Land 2024, 13(10), 1713; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101713 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024

Abstract

The urban knowledge network in China has undergone in-depth development in recent decades, intimately connecting the position characteristics of cities in the knowledge network to their knowledge production performance. While existing research focuses predominantly on the unidirectional relationship between network position and the [...] Read more.

The urban knowledge network in China has undergone in-depth development in recent decades, intimately connecting the position characteristics of cities in the knowledge network to their knowledge production performance. While existing research focuses predominantly on the unidirectional relationship between network position and the knowledge production of cities, there is a notable dearth of studies exploring the bidirectional relationship between the two constructs. By proposing a conceptual framework, this paper empirically examines the interplay between network position and knowledge production of cities through simultaneous equation models. The results revealed a mutually reinforcing relationship between network position and knowledge production, and this relationship exhibits heterogeneous characteristics and spillover effects. Specifically, cities in the periphery block and the central-western region benefit more from the effect of network position on knowledge production, while cities in the core block and the eastern region benefit more from the effect of knowledge production on network position. Moreover, the interactive effect between network position and knowledge production of cities is significantly affected by the network position characteristics and knowledge production performance of their neighboring cities in geographically adjacent regions and relationally adjacent regions. These findings enhance the understanding of urban network externalities and the connotations of the knowledge production function. Full article

15 pages, 8982 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Land Cover Mapping in West Africa: A Collaborative Process

by Foster Mensah, Fatima Mushtaq, Paul Bartel, Jacob Abramowitz, Emil Cherrington, Mansour Mahamane, Bako Mamane, Amadou Moctar Dieye, Patrice Sanou, Glory Enaruvbe and Ndeye Fatou Mar

Land 2024, 13(10), 1712; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101712 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024

Viewed by 116

Abstract

The availability of current land cover and land use (LCLU) information for monitoring the status of land resources has considerable value in ensuring sustainable land use planning and development. Similarly, the need to provide updated information on the extent of LCLU change in [...] Read more.

The availability of current land cover and land use (LCLU) information for monitoring the status of land resources has considerable value in ensuring sustainable land use planning and development. Similarly, the need to provide updated information on the extent of LCLU change in West Africa has become apparent, given the increasing demand for land resources driven by rapid population growth. Over the past decade, multiple projects have been undertaken to produce regional and national land cover maps. However, using different classification systems and legends has made updating and sharing land cover information challenging. This has resulted in the inefficient use of human and financial resources. The development of the Land Cover Meta Language (LCML) based on International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards offers an opportunity to create a standardized classification system. This system would enable easier integration of regional and national data, efficient management of information, and better resource utilization in West Africa. This article emphasizes the process and the need for multistakeholder collaboration in developing a standardized land cover classification system for West Africa, which is currently nonexistent. It presents the survey data collected to evaluate historical, current, and future land cover mapping projects in the region and provides relevant use cases as examples for operationalizing a standardized land cover classification legend for West Africa. Full article

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

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16 pages, 8350 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Soil Organic Carbon May Decline Under Climate Change: A Case Study in Mexican Forests

by Leticia Citlaly López-Teloxa and Alejandro Ismael Monterroso-Rivas

Land 2024, 13(10), 1711; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101711 (registering DOI) - 18 Oct 2024

Viewed by 318

Abstract

Soil organic carbon is essential for ecosystem health, influencing water retention, soil fertility and biodiversity. However, climate change and deforestation are reducing SOC globally. This study models and projects changes in the SOC of Mexican forest soils under different climate scenarios. Over 100 [...] Read more.

Soil organic carbon is essential for ecosystem health, influencing water retention, soil fertility and biodiversity. However, climate change and deforestation are reducing SOC globally. This study models and projects changes in the SOC of Mexican forest soils under different climate scenarios. Over 100 models were developed relating SOC to the Lang index (precipitation and temperature), altitude, slope, bulk density, texture and soil depth. The results indicate that SOC can be effectively modelled to assess scenarios for decision making. The highest SOC levels were found in tropical rainforests and mesophyll forests and the lowest in broadleaved forests of the Sonoran plain. Climate change is projected to reduce SOC in forest ecosystems by up to 11%, especially in temperate forests. Conversely, mesophyll forests are expected to experience a slight increase in SOC of 3% due to rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns. This decline could lead to increased HGH and reduced carbon storage capacity. This study highlights the need for sustainable management practices and multidisciplinary research to mitigate these impacts and emphasises the importance of comprehensive strategies for long-term environmental sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Extreme Weather on Land Degradation and Conservation)

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13 pages, 532 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Nitrous Oxide Consumption of Paddy Soils Developed from Three Parent Materials in Subtropical China

by Ling Wang, Man Yang, Jun Li, Zhaohua Li, Alan Wright and Kun Li

Land 2024, 13(10), 1710; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101710 (registering DOI) - 18 Oct 2024

Viewed by 152

Abstract

Paddy soils developed from various parent materials are widely distributed in the subtropical region in China and have a non-negligible but unclear potential to consume nitrous oxide (N₂O) due to long-term flooding. This study selected three of the most common paddy [...] Read more.

Paddy soils developed from various parent materials are widely distributed in the subtropical region in China and have a non-negligible but unclear potential to consume nitrous oxide (N₂O) due to long-term flooding. This study selected three of the most common paddy soils in subtropical China, developing from quaternary red soil (R), lake sediment sand (S), and alluvial soil (C), to study their total N₂O consumption and total nitrogen (N₂) production using N₂-free microcosm experiments. These paddy soils were treated with N₂O addition (N₂O treatment) or helium (He) addition (CK treatment) and incubated under flooding and anoxic conditions. The results showed that three alluvial soils (C1, C2, and C3) consumed over 99.93% of the N₂O accumulated in the soil profile, significantly higher than R and S soils (p < 0.05). And the N₂ production in three C soils was also significantly higher than other soils, accounting for 81.61% of the total N₂O consumption. The main soil factors affecting N₂O consumption in C, S, and R soils were soil clay content (p < 0.05), soil sand content (R² = 0.95, p < 0.001), and soil available potassium (AK) (p < 0.01), respectively. These results indicate flooding paddy soils, no matter the parent materials developed, could consume extremely large amount of N₂O produced in soil profiles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Greenhouse Gas Emission Reductions and Carbon Sequestration in Agriculture)

21 pages, 4519 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Co-Management Effects on Forest Restoration in Protected Areas of Bangladesh: A Remote Sensing and GIS-Based Analysis

by Md Rezaul Karim, Md Abdul Halim, Imrul Kayes, Wenxi Liao, Sharif A. Mukul, H. M. Tuihedur Rahman and Sean C. Thomas

Land 2024, 13(10), 1709; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101709 (registering DOI) - 18 Oct 2024

Viewed by 302

Abstract

Co-management is a promising forest governance strategy that integrates local communities’ traditional rights and forest dependencies while aiming to improve forest cover and ecosystem health. Bangladesh, facing high deforestation rates and limited per capita forest area, has implemented co-management initiatives since 2003 to [...] Read more.

Co-management is a promising forest governance strategy that integrates local communities’ traditional rights and forest dependencies while aiming to improve forest cover and ecosystem health. Bangladesh, facing high deforestation rates and limited per capita forest area, has implemented co-management initiatives since 2003 to restore forest cover and support the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities. While the socio-economic impacts of co-management are well studied, its effects on forest cover remain underexplored. This study addresses that gap by using three common spectral vegetation indices (NDVI, EVI, and MSAVI), calculated from Landsat 7 data, to analyze forest cover changes in five major protected areas under co-management. The results indicated that dense forest cover (41–71%) was initially prevalent in these areas, but a significant decline occurred between 2004 and 2015, with slope values ranging from −3.7 to −0.96. In contrast, the non-co-managed control site exhibited a much smaller decline (slope: −0.48 to −0.62) across all indices. Notable increases in agricultural land and forest–agriculture mosaics were also observed in the protected areas under co-management. Global Forest Watch data further confirmed substantial forest cover loss, particularly in CWS (158.77 ha) and SNP (0.49 ha). These findings highlight the need to reassess co-management strategies to address ongoing forest degradation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Land Degradation Processes and Control)

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18 pages, 1906 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Intersectionality Between Amazon and Commodities Production: A Close Look at Sustainability

by Adriane Terezinha Schneider, Rosangela Rodrigues Dias, Mariany Costa Deprá, Darissa Alves Dutra, Richard Luan Silva Machado, Cristiano Ragagnin de Menezes, Leila Queiroz Zepka and Eduardo Jacob-Lopes

Land 2024, 13(10), 1708; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101708 - 18 Oct 2024

Viewed by 195

Abstract

Food production’s environmental, economic, and social challenges should be demystified through quantitative data. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to investigate the ecoregional sustainability of the Amazon biome from the perspective of the environmental life cycle, economic feasibility, and social life cycle [...] Read more.

Food production’s environmental, economic, and social challenges should be demystified through quantitative data. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to investigate the ecoregional sustainability of the Amazon biome from the perspective of the environmental life cycle, economic feasibility, and social life cycle analysis, emphasizing the pillars of sustainability in the production of three commodities: soybean, beef cattle, and Brazil nuts. Carbon footprint, net present value, and worker endpoint were the metrics evaluated. According to the results found in this study, the livestock presented greater environmental burdens in terms of carbon balance when compared to the production of Brazil nuts and soybean production with carbon balances in the order of 4.75 tCO₂eq/ha, −0.02 tCO₂eq/ha, and −1.20 tCO₂eq/ha, respectively. From an economic viewpoint, the extractive production of Brazil nuts presented the highest net profit per hectare/year (USD 559.21), followed by the agricultural system (USD 533.94) and livestock (USD 146.19). Finally, in relation to the social aspect of the production systems analyzed, the negative impacts linked to beef cattle production are related to the subcategories of forced labor and equal opportunities, and the positive impacts linked to soybean production are related to the subcategories of salary and benefits. The results highlight a genuine and sustainable balance in Brazil nuts extraction, presenting it as an investment for a sustainable future while demystifying the multifaceted information related to food production as a whole, in order to assist in decision-making and the formulation of public policies. Full article

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17 pages, 17489 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Methodological Framework to Enhance Potential Spatial Planning to Support Agroecological Transition at the Scale of Local Territories

by Amélie Cénet, Valérie Viaud and Lolita Voisin

Land 2024, 13(10), 1707; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101707 - 18 Oct 2024

Viewed by 177

Abstract

Agroecological transition requires research and actions at the scale of local territories, in which agricultural activities interact with the environment and natural resources depending on a territory’s spatial configuration. To support the agroecological transition, there is an urgent need to design and implement [...] Read more.

Agroecological transition requires research and actions at the scale of local territories, in which agricultural activities interact with the environment and natural resources depending on a territory’s spatial configuration. To support the agroecological transition, there is an urgent need to design and implement new spatial configurations. For this, local public authorities in France can be considered as an interesting level of governance, because of their skills in spatial planning and their interest in agriculture, to ensure the ecological transition of their territory. However, new methodological frameworks need to be developed to support the design of new spatial configurations of territories, by constructing representations of the territory that consider both agricultural and socio-environmental issues, and by involving agricultural and non-agricultural stakeholders so that both can project themselves into the new spatial configurations. We developed a new methodological framework at the interface between landscape agronomy and landscape architects’ approaches, and experimented with applying this framework in the Urban Community of Dunkirk (UCD), which was performing a spatial planning approach called a Landscape Plan and proposing to create an Agricultural Park. The results show that the implementation of the methodological framework enabled the construction of a spatially explicit and place-based representation including the spatial issues of farming systems. These representations enable a local authority’s stakeholders to enhance their knowledge of the agricultural issues and consider changes in the spatial configuration of the Agricultural Park. In the discussion, we question the adaptation of the framework in rural territory and highlight the limitations of local authorities as the level of governance at which to address the agroecological transition at the territorial scale. Full article

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

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16 pages, 13044 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Continuous Monitoring of Soil Respiration After a Prescribed Fire: Seasonal Variations in CO₂ Efflux

by María C. Romero-Toribio, Elena Angulo, Ramón C. Soriguer, Javier Madrigal, Francisco Senra-Rivero, Xim Cerdá and Joaquín Cobos

Land 2024, 13(10), 1706; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101706 - 18 Oct 2024

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Abstract

Prescribed burns have recently become a widespread environmental management practice for biodiversity restoration to reduce fuel load, to provide forest fire suppression operational opportunities, to favor plant recruitment or to manage wild species. Prescribed fires were again applied in Doñana National Park (southern [...] Read more.

Prescribed burns have recently become a widespread environmental management practice for biodiversity restoration to reduce fuel load, to provide forest fire suppression operational opportunities, to favor plant recruitment or to manage wild species. Prescribed fires were again applied in Doñana National Park (southern Spain) after decades of non-intervention regarding fire use. Here, we assessed their impacts on the soil CO₂ effluxes over two years after burning to test the hypothesis that if the ecosystem is resilient, soil respiration will have a rapid recovery to the conditions previous to the fire. Using soil automated CO₂ flux chambers to continuously measure respiration in burned and unburned sites, we showed that soil respiration varies among seasons but only showed significant differences between burned and unburned plots in the fall season one year after fire, which corresponded with the end of the dry season. Comparing soil respiration values from the burned plots in the three fall seasons studied, soil respiration increased significantly in the fall one year after fire, but decreased in the following fall to the values of the control plots. This study highlights the resilience of soil respiration after prescribed fire, showing the potential benefits of prescribed fire to reduce catastrophic wildfires, especially in protected areas subjected to non-intervention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecosystem Disturbances and Soil Properties)

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21 pages, 1768 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influencing Factors of Peasant Households’ Willingness to Relocate to Concentrated Residences in Mountainous Areas: Evidence from Rural Southwest China

by Jia Zhong, Qian Cao, Ruiyin Chen, Shaoquan Liu, Zhaoyang Lian, Hui Yu and Ningchuan Zhou

Land 2024, 13(10), 1705; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101705 - 18 Oct 2024

Viewed by 174

Abstract

Relocating poor people in mountainous areas to centralized settlement sites is an important poverty alleviation policy implemented by China and a key measure to promote stable poverty alleviation and sustainable rural development for the poor. Based on the survey data of 405 peasant [...] Read more.

Relocating poor people in mountainous areas to centralized settlement sites is an important poverty alleviation policy implemented by China and a key measure to promote stable poverty alleviation and sustainable rural development for the poor. Based on the survey data of 405 peasant households in the Panxi Area in 2021, this study constructed a structural equation model (SEM) to explore the influencing factors of peasant households’ willingness to relocate to a concentrated residence. The results showed the following: (1) Of the 405 peasant households surveyed, 20.98% were unwilling to move to centralized resettlement sites, making it more difficult to carry out the relocation policy for poverty alleviation. (2) Living environment, living conditions, important social groups, the economic benefits, living benefits, and survival benefits brought by concentrated residences, governments, and the village committees significantly influenced the willingness to relocate to a concentrated residence. In contrast, agricultural income, ecological benefits, and value benefits brought by the concentrated residence had little effect on the willingness to relocate to a concentrated residence. (3) Land force, human force, cognitive force, and national force significantly positively affected the peasant households’ willingness to relocate to a concentrated residence. This study is of great significance in promoting the implementation of poverty alleviation and relocation policy, improving the efficiency of relocation and promoting the wellbeing of peasant households. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land Use Policy and Food Security)

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18 pages, 3034 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Endangered Commons? Modeling the Effects of Demographic Trends Coupled with Admission Rules to Common Property Institutions

by Cristina Dalla Torre, Rocco Scolozzi, Elisa Ravazzoli and Paola Gatto

Land 2024, 13(10), 1704; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101704 - 18 Oct 2024

Viewed by 202

Abstract

This study investigates the long-term effects of demographic trends and admission rules on common properties in the Province of Trento, Italy, which we refer to as historical commons. Historical commons have evolved into socio-ecological systems over the centuries, meaning that communities governed collectively [...] Read more.

This study investigates the long-term effects of demographic trends and admission rules on common properties in the Province of Trento, Italy, which we refer to as historical commons. Historical commons have evolved into socio-ecological systems over the centuries, meaning that communities governed collectively natural resources and lands essential for community survival. Communities and the admission rules that determine their composition are an important constituting element of historical commons because they have developed local ecological knowledge and practices of sustainable use of natural resources. Our study hypothesizes that commons continuity is endangered because of the declining trend of the size of communities being influenced by demographic trends coupled with admission rules. Grounding our research in systems dynamics, we use empirical data including demographic projections and existing admission rules to simulate their effect on the site of the community using the Province of Trento, Italy, as our study region. To achieve that, three types of historical commons are identified: open, semi-open, and closed, each with different admission criteria based on inheritance and/or residency. Results indicate that inheritance-based admission rules can significantly reduce the number of commoners over time, potentially endangering the continuity of these self-governance institutions. The study discusses the results in light of the literature on historical commons’ continuity to evaluate different policies affecting the size of the community grounding on different mental models. The study concludes that a simulation approach can promote an anticipatory approach to the co-design of policies to ensure inclusive continuity of historical commons. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Common Properties for the Sustainable Management of Territories)

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16 pages, 3107 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Bibliometric Study of the Importance of Tourism in Salt Landscapes for the Sustainable Development of Rural Areas

by Puiu Nistoreanu, Alina-Cerasela Aluculesei and George-Cornel Dumitrescu

Land 2024, 13(10), 1703; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101703 - 18 Oct 2024

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Abstract

Since ancient times, people have used salt for cooking and preserving food, its healing benefits, and as a means of payment. Therefore, the first settlements were located near water, food, and preferably salt, as prerequisites to further social and economic development. Naturally, the [...] Read more.

Since ancient times, people have used salt for cooking and preserving food, its healing benefits, and as a means of payment. Therefore, the first settlements were located near water, food, and preferably salt, as prerequisites to further social and economic development. Naturally, the social development, the healing properties of salt, and the beauty of some salt landscapes have led to the development of tourism as an essential asset for rural communities. This paper aims to investigate the research focusing on the use of salt resources in tourism and to see if the exploitation of salt landscapes is an actual research topic linked to rural development. The study’s primary objectives are to investigate the scientific output in the tourism field, the main drivers in scientific production, and any connection between the importance of salt landscapes in tourism and sustainable rural development. The article represents a bibliometric analysis of 437 scientific articles published in prestigious journals indexed in the Web of Science until November 2023. The results emphasised a need for more research on using salt landscapes and resources in tourism as a central topic, as most identified studies focus on proposing models for the sustainable development of former salt mines and ecosystem restoration using tourism activity. Since many salt mining operations have been closed and the inhabitants of the neighbouring rural localities have been left without the related income, the results of this research are helpful for specialists in the field and for decision-makers to have a clear view of the development trends of areas rich in salt resources for tourism purposes. Full article

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23 pages, 7917 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Application of Rain Gardens in Urban Environments: A Bibliometric Review

by Mo Wang, Ji’an Zhuang, Chuanhao Sun, Lie Wang, Menghan Zhang, Chengliang Fan and Jianjun Li

Land 2024, 13(10), 1702; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101702 - 18 Oct 2024

Viewed by 177

Abstract

The increasing challenges of urbanization and climate change have driven the need for innovative stormwater management solutions. Rain gardens, as a nature-based solution (NBS), have emerged as a critical component in urban water management, particularly in enhancing hydrological regulation, water quality, and ecosystem [...] Read more.

The increasing challenges of urbanization and climate change have driven the need for innovative stormwater management solutions. Rain gardens, as a nature-based solution (NBS), have emerged as a critical component in urban water management, particularly in enhancing hydrological regulation, water quality, and ecosystem services. This bibliometric review examines the application of rain gardens in urban environments, focusing on their roles in stormwater management, pollutant removal, and ecological enhancement. Data from 728 academic papers published between 2000 and 2023 were analyzed using the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection, employing bibliometric tools such as the “Bibliometrix” R package and CiteSpace. The analysis highlights the increasing global interest in rain gardens, particularly since 2015, with China and the United States leading research efforts. Key findings reveal that rain gardens significantly reduce runoff, improve water quality, and contribute to urban biodiversity. In addition, their integration into public spaces offers landscape esthetics and social benefits, enhancing the quality of life in urban areas. However, challenges remain in optimizing their design for diverse climates and long-term performance. The study underscores the need for further research on plant–soil interactions, pollutant removal mechanisms, and the broader ecological and social contributions of rain gardens. This review provides insights into the evolution of rain garden research and identifies future directions for advancing sustainable urban stormwater management. Full article

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16 pages, 4605 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using Local Entropy Mapping as an Approach to Quantify Surface Temperature Changes Induced by Urban Parks in Mexico City

by Juan Manuel Núñez, Andrea Santamaría, Leonardo Avila and D. A. Perez-De La Mora

Land 2024, 13(10), 1701; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101701 - 18 Oct 2024

Viewed by 183

Abstract

Understanding the mechanisms whereby parks contribute to cooling urban settings is critical to effectively addressing the challenges posed by rising temperatures in densely populated cities and ultimately improving the quality of urban life. This study employs a spatial approach with advanced analytical techniques, [...] Read more.

Understanding the mechanisms whereby parks contribute to cooling urban settings is critical to effectively addressing the challenges posed by rising temperatures in densely populated cities and ultimately improving the quality of urban life. This study employs a spatial approach with advanced analytical techniques, including local entropy mapping, to quantify surface temperature changes induced by urban parks across different geographical areas. Using satellite imagery to estimate land surface temperature (LST) during a heat wave in Mexico City, the study provides a practical approach to understanding the complex relationship between urban park size and urban heat island intensity within 300 m. The study’s findings indicate that while parks exert a cooling influence on their immediate vicinity, the extent of this effect varies spatially and depends on factors such as the size and location of the park and the nature of the surrounding terrain. Specifically, the results indicate that this relationship is not randomly distributed across the urban landscape. Instead, there is a clear pattern of spatial clustering within the city. Consequently, this research underlines the complexity of the problem, emphasizing the indispensable role of urban design and planning strategies to harness the full potential of parks as cooling agents within cities. Full article

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

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17 pages, 4370 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Learning from Two Early Brownfield Redevelopment Projects in Italy: Soil Desealing, Cooling Effects, and Implementation of Nature-Based Solutions Through Traditional Planning Tools

by Enzo Falco, Emanuele Garda, Linda Zardo and Chiara Cortinovis

Land 2024, 13(10), 1700; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101700 - 17 Oct 2024

Viewed by 293

Abstract

Consideration of the future fate of brownfields in urban environments has driven a complex ‘season’ of decisions, planning, and implementation that has seen the emergence of different approaches and actions for their reuse. Among the various experiences of brownfield redevelopment, some projects have [...] Read more.

Consideration of the future fate of brownfields in urban environments has driven a complex ‘season’ of decisions, planning, and implementation that has seen the emergence of different approaches and actions for their reuse. Among the various experiences of brownfield redevelopment, some projects have also promoted the partial renaturalisation of areas through soil desealing and demolition of existing buildings. These greening initiatives have provided new public facilities, e.g., parks and green areas, helping to improve the conditions of urban environments both from ecological and social perspectives. This article adopts ex ante and ex post methods to analyse two Italian case studies of brownfield regeneration involving desealing interventions and investigates two key aspects: (i) the planning process and tools that were put in place to implement the projects and (ii) the impacts for human wellbeing that were produced in terms of cooling effects. The analyses conducted show the real effectiveness of renaturation interventions especially related to reforestation measures in terms of temperature reduction. The examination of the two case studies also revealed the importance and potential success of traditional planning and implementation tools in promoting interventions that can now be considered innovative in terms of their actual contribution to current urban challenges. The results therefore allow us to emphasize the fundamental importance of the philosophy and basic principles of a transformation process, even guided by traditional planning tools, for the improvement of the environmental conditions of an urban context and the successful implementation of nature-based solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Form and the Urban Heat Island Effect)

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20 pages, 12196 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Peatland Transformation: Land Cover Changes and Driving Factors in the Kampar Peninsula (1990–2020)

by Dian Novarina, Jatna Supriatna, Iman Santoso and Mahawan Karuniasa

Land 2024, 13(10), 1699; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101699 - 17 Oct 2024

Viewed by 261

Abstract

The Kampar Peninsula, spanning approximately 735,091 hectares, is critical for its carbon reserves and biodiversity, including the endangered Sumatran tiger. However, nearly half of the 4 million hectares of peat swamp in the region is deforested, drained, decomposing, or burning, largely due to [...] Read more.

The Kampar Peninsula, spanning approximately 735,091 hectares, is critical for its carbon reserves and biodiversity, including the endangered Sumatran tiger. However, nearly half of the 4 million hectares of peat swamp in the region is deforested, drained, decomposing, or burning, largely due to settlements and development projects. This research employs a mixed-method approach, using quantitative spatial analysis of Landsat imagery from 1990 to 2020 based on the Spectral Mixture Analysis (SMA) model to detect forest disturbances and classify land cover changes, utilizing the Normalized Difference Fraction Index (NDFI). Ground truthing validates the image interpretation with field conditions. Additionally, qualitative analysis through interviews and regulatory review examines spatial change trends, context, and driving factors. The result showed, over 30 years, that natural forest in the Kampar Peninsula decreased significantly from 723,895.30 hectares in 1990 to 433,395.20 hectares in 2020. The primary factors driving land use changes include the construction of access roads by oil companies in 1975, leading to extensive deforestation, and government policies during the New Order period that issued forest exploitation concessions and promoted transmigration programs, resulting in widespread establishment of oil palm and acacia plantations. Full article

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

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13 pages, 1114 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Artificial Light at Night Reduces the Surface Activity of Earthworms, Increases the Growth of a Cover Crop and Reduces Water Leaching

by Zenia Kavassilas, Marion Mittmannsgruber, Edith Gruber and Johann G. Zaller

Land 2024, 13(10), 1698; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101698 - 17 Oct 2024

Viewed by 231

Abstract

Artificial light at night (ALAN), also known as light pollution, is a growing environmental problem worldwide. However, only a few studies have examined whether soil organisms that search for food at the surface at night can be affected by ALAN. We investigated the [...] Read more.

Artificial light at night (ALAN), also known as light pollution, is a growing environmental problem worldwide. However, only a few studies have examined whether soil organisms that search for food at the surface at night can be affected by ALAN. We investigated the effects of ALAN on the above-ground foraging activity of anecic earthworms (Lumbricus terrestris), on the soil water infiltration and on the germination and growth of a cover crop (Phacelia tanacetifolia). In a full-factorial greenhouse experiment, we tested four factors: ALAN (about 5 lx during the night vs. total darkness), earthworms (two specimens vs. none), plant species (Phacelia alone vs. mixed with ragweed Ambrosia artemisiifolia) and sowing depth (surface-sown vs. sown in 5 cm depth). Data were analysed using multifactorial ANOVAs. Earthworms removed 51% less surface litter under ALAN than under dark conditions. ALAN had no effect on Phacelia germination but resulted in increased height growth and biomass production when the seeds were buried. Earthworms reduced Phacelia germination and biomass production. ALAN reduced water leaching through the experimental units, probably due to interactions between the subsurface casts and plant roots. We conclude that ALAN, as emitted from streetlights, can lead to complex ecological effects in ecosystems that merit further investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Pollution in Modern Agriculture: Causes, Effect, and Control)

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15 pages, 2229 KiB

Open AccessReview

Knowledge Atlas of Cultivated Land Quality Evaluation Based on Web of Science Since the 21st Century (2000–2023)

by Pingluo Xue, Chongyang Shen, Huaizhi Tang, Yunjia Liu and Yuanfang Huang

Land 2024, 13(10), 1697; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101697 - 17 Oct 2024

Viewed by 209

Abstract

Cultivated land is the most important natural resource for human survival and development. The quality of cultivated land is closely related to grain output, and whether it can guarantee stable food supply is directly related to national food security. Cultivated land quality evaluation [...] Read more.

Cultivated land is the most important natural resource for human survival and development. The quality of cultivated land is closely related to grain output, and whether it can guarantee stable food supply is directly related to national food security. Cultivated land quality evaluation is an effective tool for understanding and mastering cultivated land quality. However, few studies have applied bibliometrics to quantitatively and systematically analyze this field. We used VOSviewer 1.6.19 and CiteSpace 6.3.1 software to visually analyze and construct 2478 documents related to cultivated land quality evaluation retrieved from the Web of Science core collection database from 2000 to 2023. Results show that cultivated land quality evaluation is still a popular research field. The collaboration ability among authors is weak and the distribution of institutions and countries publishing in this field is very uneven. In addition, the relevant research has been published in a variety of journals such as agriculture, environment, ecology, and computer technology. The research content is becoming more and more interdisciplinary. Keywords such as “Soil quality”, “Swat”, “Remote sensing”, “Heavy metals” and “Ecosystem services” have become hot topics in this field. In the future, it is necessary to further deepen the connotation of cultivated land quality, develop a long time series dynamic model of cultivated land quality evaluation and monitoring, and enhance the transformation of research results into practical applications. Full article

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20 pages, 3329 KiB

Open AccessReview

Fire Detection with Deep Learning: A Comprehensive Review

by Rodrigo N. Vasconcelos, Washington J. S. Franca Rocha, Diego P. Costa, Soltan G. Duverger, Mariana M. M. de Santana, Elaine C. B. Cambui, Jefferson Ferreira-Ferreira, Mariana Oliveira, Leonardo da Silva Barbosa and Carlos Leandro Cordeiro

Land 2024, 13(10), 1696; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101696 - 17 Oct 2024

Viewed by 293

Abstract

Wildfires are a critical driver of landscape transformation on Earth, representing a dynamic and ephemeral process that poses challenges for accurate early detection. To address this challenge, researchers have increasingly turned to deep learning techniques, which have demonstrated remarkable potential in enhancing the [...] Read more.

Wildfires are a critical driver of landscape transformation on Earth, representing a dynamic and ephemeral process that poses challenges for accurate early detection. To address this challenge, researchers have increasingly turned to deep learning techniques, which have demonstrated remarkable potential in enhancing the performance of wildfire detection systems. This paper provides a comprehensive review of fire detection using deep learning, spanning from 1990 to 2023. This study employed a comprehensive approach, combining bibliometric analysis, qualitative and quantitative methods, and systematic review techniques to examine the advancements in fire detection using deep learning in remote sensing. It unveils key trends in publication patterns, author collaborations, and thematic focuses, emphasizing the remarkable growth in fire detection using deep learning in remote sensing (FDDL) research, especially from the 2010s onward, fueled by advancements in computational power and remote sensing technologies. The review identifies “Remote Sensing” as the primary platform for FDDL research dissemination and highlights the field’s collaborative nature, with an average of 5.02 authors per paper. The co-occurrence network analysis reveals diverse research themes, spanning technical approaches and practical applications, with significant contributions from China, the United States, South Korea, Brazil, and Australia. Highly cited papers are explored, revealing their substantial influence on the field’s research focus. The analysis underscores the practical implications of integrating high-quality input data and advanced deep-learning techniques with remote sensing for effective fire detection. It provides actionable recommendations for future research, emphasizing interdisciplinary and international collaboration to propel FDDL technologies and applications. The study’s conclusions highlight the growing significance of FDDL technologies and the necessity for ongoing advancements in computational and remote sensing methodologies. The practical takeaway is clear: future research should prioritize enhancing the synergy between deep learning techniques and remote sensing technologies to develop more efficient and accurate fire detection systems, ultimately fostering groundbreaking innovations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue GeoAI for Land Use Observations, Analysis and Forecasting)

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21 pages, 9976 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Thermal Environment Networks in the Wanjiang Urban Agglomeration Based on MSPA and Circuit Theory

by Yuexia Han, Bin Dong, Zhili Xu, Jianshen Qu, Hao Wang and Liwen Xu

Land 2024, 13(10), 1695; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101695 - 17 Oct 2024

Viewed by 240

Abstract

With the acceleration of urbanization, the high density and intensity of urban construction and expansion have led to an exacerbation of the urban heat island (UHI) effect, which, in turn, contributes to global climate warming and severely impacts urban ecological environments and human [...] Read more.

With the acceleration of urbanization, the high density and intensity of urban construction and expansion have led to an exacerbation of the urban heat island (UHI) effect, which, in turn, contributes to global climate warming and severely impacts urban ecological environments and human health. This study takes the Wanjiang urban agglomeration as a case study. Using land surface temperature data from 2010, 2016, and 2022, the study employs the Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis (MSPA) model to quantitatively identify the types and spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of heat island patches in the Wanjiang urban agglomeration. Based on this analysis, this study constructed thermal environment sources and heat island corridors, and applied circuit theory (CIRCUIT) to identify the spatial network of the thermal environment in the urban agglomeration. The results show that (1) from 2010 to 2022, seven types of heat island patches in the Wanjiang urban belt were identified by consensus, mainly distributed in the northwest and southeast, and their areas increased significantly. The dominant type of heat island patches changed from island type in 2010 to core type in 2022. (2) From 2010 to 2022, the number and area of urban thermal environment sources in Wanjiang increased. According to the thermal environment source distribution and circuit theory, the number of heat island corridors increased from 2010 to 2022. The pinch points of the heat island network in the Wanjiang urban agglomeration increased from 2010 to 2022, indicating that the ecosystem connectivity of the urban agglomeration had improved during the study period. Based on the circuit theory, the heat island network barrier points of the urban agglomeration from 2010 to 2022 are identified. (3) During 2010–2022, α, β, and γ increased with time, the overall connectivity of the thermal environment network in the Wanjiang urban agglomeration was enhanced, the heat transmission efficiency between source areas was gradually improved, and the high temperature threat degree to urban and rural residents was on the rise. This study provides an identification and assessment of the spatial network of the thermal environment in the Wanjiang urban agglomeration, offering valuable insights for understanding the thermal environment network pattern and mitigating the urban heat island effect in the region. Full article

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17 pages, 8087 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Scale Analysis of Water Purification Ecosystem Service Flow in Taihu Basin for Land Management and Ecological Compensation

by Haoyang Chen and Wenbo Cai

Land 2024, 13(10), 1694; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101694 - 16 Oct 2024

Viewed by 418

Abstract

This study investigates the spatial correlation and service flow of supply and demand for water purification ecosystem services at multiple scales (i.e., the Taihu Lake Basin, sub-basin, and county) by quantitatively assessing the supply–demand relationship of nitrogen and phosphorus and introducing the SPANS [...] Read more.

This study investigates the spatial correlation and service flow of supply and demand for water purification ecosystem services at multiple scales (i.e., the Taihu Lake Basin, sub-basin, and county) by quantitatively assessing the supply–demand relationship of nitrogen and phosphorus and introducing the SPANS algorithm to characterize the service flow paths. Through quantitative analysis, the supply–demand relationship between nitrogen and phosphorus was evaluated, and the SPANS algorithm was introduced to characterize the service flow paths. The results show that the water purification ecosystem services in the southwestern region and around Taihu Lake exhibit a good supply–demand balance, while a significant supply–demand deficit is observed in the northern and southeastern regions. Service flow analysis indicates that surplus areas are primarily concentrated in hilly and urbanized central regions, whereas deficit areas are mainly located in non-urban centers. Based on these findings, ecological compensation suggestions are proposed, including dynamic adjustment, differentiated compensation, cross-city collaboration, and guidance of social capital participation, to promote continuous improvement in water quality and sustainable development within the basin. Full article

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28 pages, 5294 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Land Space and High-Speed Transportation Coordinated Development Evaluation in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei Urban Agglomeration of China

by Yujin Lu, Xingmeng Xu, Gaoru Zhu, Yuting Peng, Yi Li and Xueyan Zhao

Land 2024, 13(10), 1693; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101693 - 16 Oct 2024

Viewed by 312

Abstract

There is a complex interaction between national land space and transportation. China is accelerating its strategy of building a strong transportation country and territorial spatial planning, which requires evaluating and strengthening the coordination relationship between transport and land space to promote development. Taking [...] Read more.

There is a complex interaction between national land space and transportation. China is accelerating its strategy of building a strong transportation country and territorial spatial planning, which requires evaluating and strengthening the coordination relationship between transport and land space to promote development. Taking the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei urban agglomeration in China as an example, this study analyze the high-speed transportation construction and land space development process, evaluates the coupling and coordination degree between high-speed transportation and land space, as well as the “development-protection” situation in the years 2000, 2010, and 2020 by means of the coupling and coordination model, spatial autocorrelation analysis, and GIS analysis. The result shows: (1) high-speed transportation construction and territorial space development have been active for a long time, and most of the cities have maintained a high level of increase in these two indicators. In terms of protection indicators, Tangshan and other coastal cities have been lagging behind for a long time without any improvement trend. (2) The coupling and coordination level between high-speed transportation and development is high, with slight weakening over time, with an average annual decrease of less than 0.09%. The change in the coupling coordination level with protection shows the wave dynamics of ‘low-middle-low’. (3) In the future, high-speed transportation will have a significant impact on land space in the country for a long time. In this regard, it is suggested to: (1) promote the construction of high-speed transportation for network, systematic, and serial development; (2) accelerate the extension of the high-speed transportation advantages of the existing growth poles of Beijing and Tianjin; and (3) develop Shijiazhuang and Langfang as the new growth poles. This study will promote the integration of transportation and urban planning, which will contribute to the development of high-quality synergistic urban agglomerations around the world. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Land Environmental and Policy Impact Assessment)

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22 pages, 4064 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantification of Carbon Flux Patterns in Ecosystems: A Case Study of Prince Edward Island

by Sana Basheer, Xiuquan Wang, Quan Van Dau, Muhammad Awais, Pelin Kinay, Tianze Pang and Muhammad Qasim Mahmood

Land 2024, 13(10), 1692; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101692 - 16 Oct 2024

Viewed by 347

Abstract

Mitigating climate change by reducing heat-trapping greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the Earth’s atmosphere is a critical global challenge. In response to this urgency, the Canadian government has set a target of achieving zero emissions by 2050. The Government of Prince Edward Island [...] Read more.

Mitigating climate change by reducing heat-trapping greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the Earth’s atmosphere is a critical global challenge. In response to this urgency, the Canadian government has set a target of achieving zero emissions by 2050. The Government of Prince Edward Island (PEI) has committed to becoming Canada’s first net-zero province by 2040. Achieving this goal requires an extensive knowledge of emissions arising from ecosystem dynamics in PEI. Therefore, this study aims to quantify the carbon fluxes of these ecosystems, offering insights into their role in GHG emissions and removals. Through an extensive literature review and analysis, this research provides a detailed assessment of the potential carbon flux contributions from various ecosystems across PEI. High-resolution maps for carbon emissions, removals, and flux for the years 2010 and 2020 were developed, highlighting key findings on carbon dynamics. Additionally, a web-based tool was developed to allow decision makers and the general public to explore these carbon flux maps interactively. This work aims to inform policy decisions and enhance strategies for effective climate change mitigation in PEI. Full article

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20 pages, 2820 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Connections and Spatial Network Structure of the Tourism Economy in Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei: A Social Network Perspective

by Xiaoyuan Zhang, Xiankai Huang, Jinlian Shi, Yaomin Zheng and Jiahong Wang

Land 2024, 13(10), 1691; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101691 - 16 Oct 2024

Viewed by 357

Abstract

In the context of the coordinated development of Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei, examining the spatial connections and network structure characteristics of the tourism economy holds substantial theoretical and practical significance. This study constructs a tourism economic quality evaluation index system from four dimensions and optimizes the [...] Read more.

In the context of the coordinated development of Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei, examining the spatial connections and network structure characteristics of the tourism economy holds substantial theoretical and practical significance. This study constructs a tourism economic quality evaluation index system from four dimensions and optimizes the tourism economic gravity model by incorporating time distance and weight factors to dynamically simulate the intensity of tourism economic spatial connection (ITESC). Based on the new perspective of relational data, social network analysis is employed to investigate the spatial correlation network characteristics and group structure changes in the tourism economy within the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei urban agglomeration (BTHUA). The results demonstrate a significant improvement in overall tourism economic quality from 2013 to 2022, with the average quality increasing from 0.128 in 2013 to 0.157 in 2022. Tourism economic spatial connections are prevalent among cities, exhibiting heterogeneous characteristics, characterized by density in the north and relatively sparse in the south. The network cohesion of ITESC strengthens, and the network structure evolves from a highly centralized to a multi-centralized configuration, with increasingly frequent cooperation and interaction in tourism between cities. Beijing, Tianjin, and Shijiazhuang occupy central positions in the network, exhibiting strong ITESC and a high degree of connectivity, generating a significant “trickle-down effect” on peripheral cities. Consequently, strengthening ITESC between peripheral cities and core areas, as well as enhancing the bidirectional spillover of tourism development between cities, is crucial for the future sustainable and coordinated development of tourism in the BTHUA. Full article

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16 pages, 8302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Soil Nutrient Restoration Aging and Vegetation Recovery in Open Dumps of Cold and Arid Regions in Xinjiang, China

by Zhongming Wu, Weidong Zhu, Haijun Guo, Yong Zhang, Chaoji Shen, Jing Guo, Ming Liu, Tuanwei Zhao, Hu Teng, Wanli Zhu, Yongfu Kang, Gensheng Li and Weiming Guan

Land 2024, 13(10), 1690; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101690 - 16 Oct 2024

Viewed by 343

Abstract

Open-pit coal mining inevitably damages the soil and vegetation in mining areas. Currently, the restoration of cold and arid open-pit mines in Xinjiang, China, is still in the initial exploratory stage, especially the changes in soil nutrients in spoil dumps over time. Dynamic [...] Read more.

Open-pit coal mining inevitably damages the soil and vegetation in mining areas. Currently, the restoration of cold and arid open-pit mines in Xinjiang, China, is still in the initial exploratory stage, especially the changes in soil nutrients in spoil dumps over time. Dynamic remote sensing monitoring of vegetation in mining areas and their correlation are relatively rare. Using the Heishan Open Pit in Xinjiang, China, as a case, soil samples were collected during different discharge periods to analyze the changes in soil nutrients and uncover the restoration mechanisms. Based on four Landsat images from 2018 to 2023, the remote sensing ecological index (RSEI) and fractional vegetation cover (FVC) were obtained to evaluate the effect of mine restoration. Additionally, the correlation between vegetation changes and soil nutrients was analyzed. The results indicated that (i) the contents of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and organic matter (OM) in the soil increased with the duration of the restoration period. (ii) When the restoration time of the dump exceeds 5 years, N, P, K, and OM content is higher than that of the original surface-covered vegetation area. (iii) Notably, under the same restoration aging, the soil in the artificial mine restoration demonstration base had significantly higher contents of these nutrients compared to the soil naturally restored in the dump. (iv) Over the past five years, the RSEI and FVC in the Heishan Open Pit showed an overall upward trend. The slope remediation and mine restoration project significantly increased the RSEI and FVC values in the mining area. (v) Air humidity and surface temperature were identified as key natural factors affecting the RSEI and FVC in cold and arid open pit. The correlation coefficients between soil nutrient content and vegetation coverage were higher than 0.78, indicating a close and complementary relationship between the two. The above results can clarify the time–effect relationship between natural recovery and artificial restoration of spoil dumps in cold and arid mining areas in Xinjiang, further promoting the research and practice of mine restoration technology in cold and arid open pits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Modelling and Management of Environment, Energy and Resources: Methods, Applications, and Challenges)

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22 pages, 17884 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Carbon Stock and Sequestration Dynamics in Response to Land Use and Land Cover Changes in a Tropical Landscape

by Dipankar Bera, Nilanjana Das Chatterjee, Santanu Dinda, Subrata Ghosh, Vivek Dhiman, Bashar Bashir, Beata Calka and Mohamed Zhran

Land 2024, 13(10), 1689; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101689 - 16 Oct 2024

Viewed by 367

Abstract

Quantitative analysis of LULC changes and their effects on carbon stock and sequestration is important for mitigating climate change. Therefore, this study examines carbon stock and sequestration in relation to LULC changes using the Land Change Modeler (LCM) and Ecosystem Services Modeler (ESM) [...] Read more.

Quantitative analysis of LULC changes and their effects on carbon stock and sequestration is important for mitigating climate change. Therefore, this study examines carbon stock and sequestration in relation to LULC changes using the Land Change Modeler (LCM) and Ecosystem Services Modeler (ESM) in tropical dry deciduous forests of West Bengal, India. The LULC for 2006, 2014, and 2021 were classified using Google Earth Engine (GEE), while LULC changes and predictions were analyzed using LCM. Carbon stock and sequestration for present and future scenarios were estimated using ESM. The highest carbon was stored in forest land (124.167 Mg/ha), and storage outside the forest declined to 13.541 Mg/ha for agricultural land and 0–8.123 Mg/ha for other lands. Carbon stock and economic value decreased from 2006 to 2021, and are likely to decrease further in the future. Forest land is likely to contribute to 94% of future carbon loss in the study region, primarily due to its conversion into agricultural land. The implementation of multiple-species plantations, securing tenure rights, proper management practices, and the strengthening of forest-related policies can enhance carbon stock and sequestration. These spatial-temporal insights will aid in management strategies, and the methodology can be applied to broader contexts. Full article

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17 pages, 7474 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research into the Influence Mechanisms of Visual-Comfort and Landscape Indicators of Urban Green Spaces

by Yumeng Meng, Jiaxuan Shi, Mei Lyu, Dong Sun and Hiroatsu Fukuda

Land 2024, 13(10), 1688; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101688 - 16 Oct 2024

Viewed by 275

Abstract

Urban green spaces play a crucial role in providing social services and enhancing residents’ mental health. It is essential for sustainable urban planning to explore the relationship between urban green spaces and human perceptions, particularly their visual comfort. However, most current research has [...] Read more.

Urban green spaces play a crucial role in providing social services and enhancing residents’ mental health. It is essential for sustainable urban planning to explore the relationship between urban green spaces and human perceptions, particularly their visual comfort. However, most current research has analyzed green spaces using two-dimensional indicators (remote sensing), which often overlook human visual perceptions. This study combined two-dimensional and three-dimensional methods to evaluate urban green spaces. Additionally, the study employed machine learning to quantify residents’ visual comfort in green-space environments and explored the relationship between green spaces and human visual perceptions. The results indicated that Kitakyushu exhibited a moderate FCV and an extremely low Green View Index (GVI). Yahatanishi-ku was characterized as having the highest visual comfort. Tobata-ku demonstrated the lowest visual comfort. Natural, GVI, openness, enclosure, vegetation diversity, landscape diversity, and NDBI were positively correlated with visual comfort. FCV and ENVI were negatively correlated with visual comfort. Vegetation diversity had the most impact on improving visual comfort. By integrating remote sensing and street-view data, this study introduces a methodology to ensure a more holistic assessment of green spaces. Urban planners could use it to better identify areas with insufficient green space or areas that require improvement in terms of green-space quality. Meanwhile, it could be helpful in providing valuable input for formulating more effective green-space policies and improving overall urban environmental quality. The study provides a scientific foundation for urban planners to improve the planning and construction of healthy and sustainable cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Dynamics of Biodiversity and Landscape Ecology: Patterns, Processes, and Planning)

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15 pages, 6543 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Dynamics and Driving Factors of Vegetation Greenness in Typical Tourist Region: A Case Study of Hainan Island, China

by Jianchao Guo, Lin Zhang, Shi Qi and Jiadong Chen

Land 2024, 13(10), 1687; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101687 - 16 Oct 2024

Viewed by 268

Abstract

Vegetation greenness has been one of the most widely utilized indicators to assess the vegetation growth status for the better ecological environment. However, in typical tourist regions, the impact of the geographical environment, socioeconomic development, and tourism development on vegetation greenness changes is [...] Read more.

Vegetation greenness has been one of the most widely utilized indicators to assess the vegetation growth status for the better ecological environment. However, in typical tourist regions, the impact of the geographical environment, socioeconomic development, and tourism development on vegetation greenness changes is still a challenge. To address this challenge, we used the Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud platform combined with a series of Landsat remote sensing images to calculate the fractional vegetation cover (FVC) which can be used as an indicator to characterize the spatiotemporal evolution of vegetation greenness in Hainan Island from 2000 to 2020. Furthermore, we employed geographic detector and structural equation models to quantify the relative importance and explanatory power of the geographical environment, socioeconomic development, and tourism development on vegetation greenness changes and to clarify the interaction of mechanisms of various factors in Haikou and Sanya. The results show that the annual growth rate of the FVC in Hainan Island was 0.0025/a. In terms of spatial distribution, the trend of the FVC changes was mainly characterized by non-significant and extremely significant improvement, accounting for 35.34% and 29.38% of the study area. Future vegetation greenness was dominated by weak counter-persistent increase and weak persistent increase. The geographical environmental factors were the main factors affecting vegetation greenness in Haikou, followed by the socioeconomic and the tourism development factors, while the geographical environmental factors also dominate in Sanya, followed by the tourism development factors and finally the socioeconomic factors. Specifically, the spatial distribution of vegetation greenness was primarily influenced by land use types, elevation, slope, and travel services. Geographical environmental factors could indirectly affect changes in socioeconomic and tourism development, thereby indirectly affecting the spatial distribution of vegetation greenness. These findings can provide some significant implications to guide the ecological environmental protection for sustainable development in Hainan Island in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Land Environmental and Policy Impact Assessment)

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