Search Results (1,524)

The National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) represents a transformative opportunity to reduce territorial, gender and generational disparities in Italy. It plays an even more important role for inner areas, which make up about three-fifths of the entire national territory and require structural investment to improve infrastructure, social services and access to healthcare services. This study aims to analyse the distribution of funds by project type, and to develop a geostatistical analysis-based methodology to critically evaluate two key aspects: the ability of small municipalities to access resources, and the effectiveness of the funding programme in meeting the specific needs of inner areas. The developed methodology consists of several steps aimed at collecting, standardising, geo-spatialising and analysing data relating to NRRP funds. This methodology is then applied to a case study of the Abruzzo region (Italy), which is considered particularly interesting due to its physical, historical and socio-economic characteristics that make it particularly vulnerable to natural disasters. The developed methodology consists of several steps aimed at collecting, standardising, geo-spatialising and analysing data relating to NRRP funds. The results of the spatial autocorrelation and cluster analyses were then overlapped and compared with the internal areas defined by the National Strategy for Inner Areas (NSIA). The outcomes reveal how investments interact with existing spatial planning instruments and development strategies, underscoring the critical role of accessibility, infrastructure, and public services in fostering equitable and sustainable regional development. The analysis offers insights into addressing structural disparities and enhancing territorial cohesion, with implications for policy alignment across multiple levels of governance. Full article

Given that the increasing non-agricultural conversion of cultivated land (NACCL) endangers food security, studying the spatial and temporal variation characteristics and driving mechanisms of NACCL in Sichuan Province can offer a scientific foundation for developing local farmland preservation measures and controlling further conversion. Guided by the theoretical framework of land use transition, this study utilizes land use datasets spanning multiple periods between 2000 and 2023. Comprehensively considering population scale factors, natural geographical factors, and socioeconomic factors, the county-level annual NACCL rate is calculated. Following this, the dynamic evolution and underlying driving forces of NACCL across 183 counties in Sichuan Province are examined through temporal and spatial dimensions, utilizing analytical tools including Nonparametric Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) and the Geographical Detector model with Optimal Parameters (OPGD). The study finds that: (1) Overall, NACCL in Sichuan Province exhibits phased temporal fluctuations characterized by “expansion—contraction—re-expansion—strict control,” with cultivated land mainly being converted into urban land, and the differences among counties gradually narrowing. (2) In Sichuan Province, the spatial configuration of NACCL is characterized by the expansion of high-value agglomerations alongside the dispersed and stable distribution of low-value areas. (3) Analysis through the OPGD model indicates that urban construction land dominates the NACCL process in Sichuan Province, and the driving dimension evolves from single to synergistic. The findings of this study offer a systematic examination of the spatiotemporal evolution and underlying drivers of NACCL in Sichuan Province. This analysis provides a scientific basis for formulating region-specific farmland protection policies and supports the optimization of territorial spatial planning systems. The results hold significant practical relevance for promoting the sustainable use of cultivated land resources. Full article

This paper presents a comprehensive methodology for assessing the resilience of landscapes to human impact in western Kazakhstan. The approach developed is based on integrating remote sensing data (MODIS, SMAP, NDVI and NDSI), the results of field surveys, and multi-criteria analysis methods in a GIS environment. The assessment covered over 50 landscape types and subtypes using ten key indicators reflecting climatic, geomorphological, soil, hydrological, and biotic characteristics. These indicators were normalised, aggregated and summarised to create an integral index of landscape resilience, which allowed four resilience classes to be identified, ranging from highly vulnerable to relatively resilient. The spatial analysis revealed that over 60% of the region’s territory is classified as high-vulnerability, predominantly within semi-desert and desert zones, which are vulnerable to climatic risks, degradation of vegetation cover and human activity. Verification of the results based on remote monitoring data for the period 2000–2024 and field observations confirmed the reliability of the developed methodology. The results obtained allow the identification of areas prioritised for environmental monitoring, restoration and sustainable land use in arid climate conditions. A plan of measures for regulation and restoration of ecosystems and spatial planning tools are proposed. The obtained data can be used for the development of regional environmental policy and sustainable land use strategies. Full article

Energy poverty presents a variety of complex challenges relating to equity, public health and territorial sustainability. Despite growing attention across European policy agendas, responses remain fragmented and often disconnected from local needs. This study proposes a strategic framework to promote social inclusion, territorial resilience, and multilevel governance in addressing energy poverty. The methodological approach is divided into three main phases. First, a literature review based on PRISMA guidelines was conducted, covering reports and pilot projects from 2010 to 2024. An inductive–deductive model was then used to analyse the literature, identifying five thematic areas and recurring gaps. The ultimate goal was to develop a framework that would tackle energy poverty. The results reveal persistent gaps: fragmented indicators, underdefined vulnerable groups, weak integration between energy and health policies, limited financial accessibility, and uncoordinated governance. In response, the paper introduces the Integrated Energy Resilience and Inclusion Network (IERIN), a governance-based framework structured around four conceptual pillars: equity, adaptability, participation, and proximity. The Nesima district of Catania is proposed as an exploratory context to test the framework and refine participatory tools. The study outlines practical strategies for achieving energy equity through co-design, cross-sectoral planning, and inclusive financing. The study outlines practical strategies for achieving energy equity through co-design, cross-sectoral planning, and inclusive financing. Full article

The knowledge economy has become ever more important for cities and regions, and different types of urban spaces have been created to accommodate its activities. One of the main assets of these spaces is vitality, a quality that is directly related to innovation and is oftentimes considered the result of spontaneous space arrangements. The recent literature, however, shows that urban vitality is not an intangible quality; it can be correlated to different place quality aspects, such as urban morphology, and measured through existing analytical methods. The aim of this paper is to systematize such indicators and use them to develop algorithms that can be subsequently incorporated into a computational tool for the assessment of knowledge territories during the early design stages, to support their spatial planning and development. The Paris-Saclay Urban Campus is used as a case study to understand and assess these vitality and place quality indicators in an existing benchmark. The results can contribute to the serendipity and the success of new or redeveloped knowledge and innovation areas. Full article

Almonds are one of the major products that are economically competent and compatible with the Mediterranean climate, a key characteristic that distinguishes Lebanon. The present study aims to examine the suitability of land use and land cover on the Lebanese territory for sustainable almond cultivation, based on the FAO land suitability criteria. The research explored the existing areas of almond cultivation and the land possessing the potential for almond cultivation in Lebanon using an analysis model developed on GIS. The evaluation of Land Suitability (LS) based on GIS and Multi-Criteria Evaluation methods (MCE) with Weighted Overlay (WO) was applied, and the almond suitability map was rendered using the seven following parameters: temperature, rainfall, slope, elevation, soil pH, soil texture, and soil depth. These variables were integrated through GIS and were allocated to different weights to each thematic layer, as per its relevance. Ultimately, the almond suitability map was established, comprising four categories: highly suitable, moderately suitable, marginally suitable, and not suitable. The obtained results indicated that almond cultivation areas were around 5500 ha in 2010, while more than 60% of the study area can be planted with almonds in accordance with the almond suitability map. In closing, the targeted decision-makers will potentially deem this study as a valid source of knowledge for planning land use, and a tool to mitigate land degradation. Full article

Emerging hybrid governance models are transforming conventional approaches to land-use regulation by simultaneously enabling urban–rural development and enforcing ecological safeguards. This study investigates the regulatory mechanisms underpinning China’s urban–rural land-use policies through an innovative mixed-methods approach, integrating systematic text analysis and the Institutional Grammar Tool (IGT). Drawing on a comprehensive dataset of 62 national policy documents (2012–2024), we employ textual coding and thematic clustering to identify seven core policy pathways, ranging from territorial spatial planning to ecological protection. These pathways are further deconstructed using IGT to assess their regulatory intensity, revealing a tripartite governance model: (1) flexible AIC-strategies (e.g., land market mechanisms), which enable local experimentation by specifying actors, aims, and conditions without rigid obligations; (2) adaptive ADIC-norms (e.g., collective land reforms), which balance central directives with localized discretion through conditional deontic rules; and (3) rigid ADICO-rules (e.g., ecological redlines), which enforce absolute compliance through binding sanctions. Through systematic analysis of land use policy regulations, we reveal how China’s hybrid governance system operationalizes a tripartite institutional logic—maintaining rigid regulatory control (ADICO-rules) in ecologically critical zones, adaptive policy experimentation (ADIC-norms) in transitional areas, and flexible market-based instruments (AIC-strategies) in development zones—thereby dynamically reconciling environmental conservation with socioeconomic diversification. The study advances both institutional theory through its grammatical analysis of policy instruments and governance theory by transcending the traditional command-and-control versus flexible governance dichotomy. Practically, the research offers actionable insights for policymakers in emerging economies, emphasizing spatially differentiated regulation, dynamic monitoring system, and strategic coupling of binding rules with flexible implementation mechanisms. Full article

Protected areas (PAs) are increasingly exposed to anthropogenic pressures under global change scenarios, with surrounding land subdivision and land use/land cover change (LULCC) dynamics often undermining their conservation goals and intensifying demand for basic services such as water availability. This study analyzed the buffer zone around Cerro Castillo National Park in Chilean Patagonia to assess the evolution of rural private properties, considering their subdivision, LULCC, and legal water demand dynamics. Using cadastral records, Landsat 8 imagery, and official water rights databases, we quantified property subdivision and analyzed LULCC and water rights distribution patterns through spatial overlap analysis. Results indicate a nearly fourfold increase in subdivisions between 2011 and 2023, with 304 properties divided into 3237 units occupying 43.7% of the private land area. LULCC analysis revealed a net recovery of native forest (+10%) alongside notable increases in urban coverage (+152%) and exotic plantations (+245%). Legal water demand almost doubled, with 68% of consumptive rights concentrated in subdivided properties. These findings highlight property subdivision as an important factor influencing socioecological change in the territories that surround PAs. We argue that subdivision dynamics can serve as an early indicator for anticipating land use pressures and can complement integrated landscape-scale planning, consistent with the transformative change approaches advocated by international biodiversity frameworks. Full article

This study investigates the combined impact of climate change and land use changes on water resources and soil conditions in the Litani River Basin (LRB) in Lebanon. The Mediterranean region, including the LRB, is highly vulnerable to climate change. This study utilizes the WiMMed (Water Integrated Management for Mediterranean Watersheds) model to assess hydrological variables such as infiltration, runoff, and soil moisture for the years 2009, 2014, and 2019. It considers 2019 climate conditions to project the 2040 scenarios for Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) 2.6 and 8.5, incorporating the unique characteristics of the Mediterranean watershed. Results indicate a concerning trend of declining infiltration, runoff, and soil moisture, particularly under the more severe RCP 8.5 scenario, with the most significant reductions occurring during summer. Land use changes, such as deforestation and urban expansion, are identified as key contributors to reduced infiltration and increased runoff. This study highlights the critical role of soil moisture in crop productivity and ecosystem health, showing how land cover changes and climate change intensify these effects. Soil moisture is highly sensitive to precipitation variations, with a 20% reduction in precipitation and a 5 °C temperature increase leading to substantial decreases in soil moisture. These findings highlight the urgent need for sustainable land management practices and climate mitigation strategies in the Litani River Basin (LRB) and similar Mediterranean watersheds. Protecting forests, implementing soil conservation measures, and promoting responsible urban development are crucial steps to maintain water resources and soil quality. Furthermore, this research offers valuable insights for policymakers, farmers, and environmentalists to prepare for potential droughts or flooding events, contributing to the preservation of this vital ecosystem. The data from this study, along with the recommended actions, can play a crucial role in fostering resilience at the national level, addressing the challenges posed by climate change. Full article

Since 1980, a land use type known as parcelas de agrado has developed in Chile, generating a series of social, economic, and environmental impacts. In recent years, its use has increased further and has become a subject of public debate. To address this, it is necessary to have evidence that documents its evolution. Within this context, the aim of the article is to analyze the state of the literature on parcelas de agrado in Chile. The method is based on three stages: the application of the PRISMA model for the identification and selection of documents, the establishment of areas and categories for quantitative analysis, and content analysis based on five dimensions. The results show a diversity of types of studies conducted in different years, territories, and scales in Chile, with a greater concentration of scientific articles and studies in areas of the central macrozone of Chile. The discussion highlights the diversity and proliferation of studies, facilitating elements and the spread of parcelas de agrado, the consequences on the territory, as well as the contribution of spatial planning. It is concluded that parcelas de agrado in Chile require greater attention from the State in relation to the territorial planning of rural, peri-urban, and suburban areas. Full article

This study proposes a model for estimating the Tourism Carrying Capacity (TCC) of serial sites, a little-explored topic in the literature, developed for the UNESCO serial site Via Appia. Regina Viarum. The model is based on an extensive reinterpretation of Cifuentes’ Physical, Real, and Effective Carrying Capacity and on territorial indices used to modulate the carrying capacity of territories in relation to their infrastructural and ecological endowments. The estimate is conducted on 614 municipalities and 13 gravitational areas and includes the simulation of three evolutionary scenarios (2024–2034) of increased tourist pressure. The results for 2019 indicate an overall level of Effective Carrying Capacity at “low impact”, but with significant territorial variability, with some municipalities and areas tending towards increasing values of tourist load in future scenarios. Greater infrastructure provision does not automatically guarantee greater absorption capacity in the presence of ecological fragility, while municipalities with high ecological provision may show signs of stress due to a lack of services and infrastructure. The main contribution of the research is to extend the determination of TCC from the analysis of individual sites to the scale of the entire territory, providing a tool to support tourism planning and management. Full article

Nature-Based Solutions (NBSs) are increasingly financed in urban, regional, and national contexts due to their proven capacity to reduce climate risks and deliver multiple co-benefits. Several challenges affect the successful implementation and long-term maintenance of NBSs, especially in climate-sensitive and fragile urban territories (e.g., the Mediterranean basin), characterized by intense urbanization, environmental vulnerability, socio-economic disparities, and fragmented governance. Key barriers include difficulties in economically evaluating NBS benefits, uncertainty about their effectiveness under changing climate conditions, and implementing multi-functional projects with an interdisciplinary perspective. To address these challenges, a participatory process was conducted involving three thematic working tables focused on the following: (1) economic evaluation, (2) co-design for climate resilience, and (3) multi-functionality and disciplinary integration. All groups applied a shared SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) methodology structured in four phases: (i) individual reflection and collective brainstorming; (ii) collaborative SWOT matrix development; (iii) roadmaps formulation; and (iv) narrative synthesis and submission. Grounded in their knowledge and practical experiences, stakeholders identified operational barriers and strategic advantages to identify research gaps and designing adaptive, inclusive, and context-sensitive NBS roadmaps. Although the stakeholders were primarily based in Northern Italy, they also brought national and international experience, making the findings relevant and transferable to other urban areas in the Mediterranean and Europe, facing similar socio-environmental challenges and governance issues. Thus, the study supports more effective planning and governance in comparable contexts, emphasizing integrated and flexible approaches to address urban fragility and optimize projects governance and management. Full article

The creation of a new protected area, especially on permafrost territory, along with the adoption of legislative measures, requires a thorough assessment of its ecological diversity and condition. In the planned Bolshoe Toko National Park (Yakutia, Northeastern Russia), the main protected area will be a unique deep-water mountain lake of glacial origin, Bolshoe Toko Lake. Our aim was to study the species composition of algal communities of Bolshoe Toko Lake by combining our new and previously known data on the flora of algae and cyanobacteria of the lake. For the first time by analyzing environmental parameters, we identified factors and hotspots of diversity of the lake ecosystem. In the planktonic microflora of the lake, 479 species belonging to six taxonomic phyla were identified. This allows us to talk about a biodiversity hotspot at Bolshoe Toko Lake. The presence of rare, new endangered and critically endangered species in the flora of the lake confirms the need to create a national park. Bioindication analysis and contour maps of ecological factors made it possible to assess the current sustainability of the ecosystem when developing a plan for the creation of a new protected area and to identify potential problem areas and factors affecting the ecosystem. One such factor is the development of the coal basin, which is already having a noticeable impact on the lake environment. Full article

Background: The superior thyroid artery (STA) exhibits significant anatomical variability, which is crucial for head and neck surgical procedures, particularly free flap reconstruction. This systematic review synthesizes the current knowledge on STA origin, branching patterns, perfusion territory, and its relationship with the superior laryngeal nerve (SLN), focusing on implications for flap selection and surgical planning. Methods: A comprehensive search of relevant databases was conducted to identify studies reporting on STA anatomy. Data extraction focused on the STA origin variations, relationships with anatomical landmarks, branching patterns, perfusion territory, and the STA-SLN relationship. Emphasis was placed on variations impacting STA’s suitability as a recipient vessel for free flaps. Data were synthesized qualitatively. Results: The STA most commonly originates from the external carotid artery (ECA), with variations from the carotid bifurcation (CB) and common carotid artery (CCA). Sex-based and laterality differences were noted. Branching patterns varied considerably, influencing perfusion of the thyroid gland, larynx, and adjacent musculature. The STA’s relationship with the external branch of the SLN (EBSLN), classified by Cernea’s classification, highlighted the risk of iatrogenic injury. The STA provides perfusion to the thyroid gland, larynx, sternocleidomastoid muscle, and strap muscles, all of which can be raised as flaps. Conclusions: Understanding STA anatomical variations is essential for surgeons planning free flap reconstruction in the head and neck. This review underscores the importance of preoperative imaging to assess STA suitability as a recipient’s vessel and minimize complications. Further research is needed to quantify the impact of STA variations on free flap outcomes. Full article

Although there are still significant inequalities, women’s labor force participation has increased in many parts of the world. These disparities are linked to socio-economic, territorial, and institutional conditions, such as access to land, quality of infrastructure, and the availability of decent work in both urban and rural areas. To understand how these socio-economic and spatial factors interact with national economic and policy frameworks is essential for analyzing gender participation in work. In this study, we examine the structural, territorial, and socio-economic factors shaping female labor force participation in 49 countries between 2013 and 2022, covering Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa. We investigate the interaction between macroeconomic conditions, public investment in education, and spatial inequalities. In addition, we focus on how these factors work together within different institutional settings. The analysis also considers territorial aspects such as urban–rural differences, regional development issues, and land-related livelihoods. The data were collected from the World Bank’s World Development Indicators to build a balanced panel. We implemented a Bayesian hierarchical panel regression model to understand how economic, institutional, and spatial factors jointly influence women’s participation in the labor force across different national and regional contexts. For model specification, we used standardized predictors and country-level intercepts to allow the model to account for institutional differences. The results indicate that national income levels and female unemployment rates are the most important factors affecting participation. On the other hand, tertiary enrollment and public education spending have weaker or mixed effects. Notably, although more women now complete higher education, many, especially in non-OECD countries, still face barriers to entering formal employment. Furthermore, in many developing countries, women still encounter restricted access to formal and secure jobs, particularly in rural and less developed areas. These findings show that economic growth is not the only factor needed to achieve gender equality in the labor market. Sustainable progress requires plans that bring together labor reforms, better education, care services, and fair growth in all regions. It is also important to fix problems with land, close the gap between cities and villages, and address environmental challenges. By linking labor markets, education, and land-linked spatial constraints, the study informs SDGs 5 (Gender Equality), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Full article