Journal Description
Land
Land
is an international and cross-disciplinary, peer-reviewed, open access journal on land system science, landscape, soil–sediment–water systems, urban study, land–climate interactions, water–energy–land–food (WELF) nexus, biodiversity research and health nexus, land modelling and data processing, ecosystem services, and multifunctionality and sustainability etc., published monthly online by MDPI. The International Association for Landscape Ecology (IALE), European Land-use Institute (ELI), Landscape Institute (LI) and Urban Land Institute (ULI) are affiliated with Land, and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SSCI (Web of Science), PubAg, AGRIS, GeoRef, RePEc, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Environmental Studies) / CiteScore - Q1 (Nature and Landscape Conservation)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.9 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.0 (2022)
Latest Articles
Editorial of the Special Issue Digital Soil Mapping, Decision Support Tools and Soil Monitoring Systems in the Mediterranean
Land 2024, 13(6), 815; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060815 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
In the digital era, the role of soil surveyors has evolved significantly [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Soil Mapping, Decision Support Tools and Soil Monitoring Systems in the Mediterranean)
Open AccessReview
Biology of Hemiparasitic Rhinanthus Species in the Context of Grassland Biodiversity
by
Gederts Ievinsh
Land 2024, 13(6), 814; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060814 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
The aim of the present review is to compile and analyze information on biology of Rhinanthus species in the context of grassland biodiversity. Root hemiparasites have been relatively less studied in comparison to economically important holoparasitic weed species. Rhinanthus species appear to be
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The aim of the present review is to compile and analyze information on biology of Rhinanthus species in the context of grassland biodiversity. Root hemiparasites have been relatively less studied in comparison to economically important holoparasitic weed species. Rhinanthus species appear to be genetically polymorphic, but also possess high phenotypic plasticity, and ecological factors are important determinants in evolution of specialization to most appropriate hosts. Rhinanthus individuals have a relatively short life span, and flowering is a photoperiod- or host plant-independent phenomenon. Both insect pollination and self-pollination can occur. Seeds do not form a persistent soil seed bank and have physiological dormancy broken by stratification. In general, Rhinanthus species have low host specificity, but there clearly are ‘preferred’ or ‘avoided’ hosts in natural conditions. In controlled conditions, interaction with most grass species result in more prominent parasite growth stimulation in comparison to that of legumes, and, especially, forbs, but there are significant gradations and exceptions. Ecological requirements of Rhinanthus species have been rarely studied, but it can be expected that significant tolerance against mineral nutrient heterogeneity and water shortage can be found. It seems that host plant characteristics are important determinants of the environmental resilience of Rhinanthus. Parasites not only obtain resources (water and minerals) from host plants but also negatively affect their physiological functions. The most intriguing and practically unexplored question is the exchange of chemical signals between the Rhinanthus parasite and the host plant. Extending this idea, it can be predicted that signals will also be exchanged between multiple host plants whose roots are connected through the parasite. It is highly possible that the exchange of small RNAs between plants could influence their environmental tolerance. Host selectivity forms the functional basis of changes in species diversity in grasslands, but the outcome seems to be highly dependent on other conditions, especially, soil edaphic factors. Development of new model systems is necessary to further expand our knowledge about the complex effects of parasitic plants on ecosystems.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability II)
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Open AccessReview
Matched Relationships and Mechanisms of Water and Land Resources in Karst Mountainous Areas: A Review
by
Xiaofei Pang, Binggeng Xie, Xuemao Zhang, Jing Xie and Jianyong Xiao
Land 2024, 13(6), 813; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060813 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
The matching relationship between water and land resources in the karst mountains is closely related to regional ecological and environmental security, human well-being, and high-quality socio-economic development. Based on a massive literature review, this review systematically summarizes the research overview, development process, and
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The matching relationship between water and land resources in the karst mountains is closely related to regional ecological and environmental security, human well-being, and high-quality socio-economic development. Based on a massive literature review, this review systematically summarizes the research overview, development process, and matching mechanism of karst water and land resources. The results show the following: (1) Since 1990, the number of publications on karst water and land resources has shown a steady upward trend, with the journals covering multiple fields, characterized by multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary features. (2) The matching relationship between water and land resources in karst mountainous areas has experienced three stages: “single element–binary matching–multiple coupling”. It reveals the evolutionary process from focusing on the single internal system of water and land resources to focusing on the mutual matching relationship between water and land resources, and then to the study of multiple coupling between water and land resources system and other external systems. (3) The internal coordinated development of the water and land resources system in karst mountainous areas depends on the joint interactions of natural, economic, and social factors, while the external matching mainly focuses on the mechanism around the three aspects of water and land resources and agricultural production, ecological environment, and economic and social development. Furthermore, the review proposes that future research should explore the matching of water and land resources in karst mountainous areas through theoretical framework construction, model innovation, scale refinement, and mechanism analysis. The expected results will provide a scientific reference for advancing theoretical research on karst water and land resources and optimizing their management.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Soil Quality and Management in Karst Ecosystem II)
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Open AccessArticle
Quantification and Simulation of the Ecosystem Service Value of Karst Region in Southwest China
by
Suling He, Jinliang Wang, Jie Li, Jinming Sha, Jinchun Zhou and Yuanmei Jiao
Land 2024, 13(6), 812; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060812 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Regional ecosystem service value (ESV) is significantly influenced by factors such as land use/cover change (LUCC). In this study, from the perspective of spatio-temporal heterogeneity, we constructed a dynamic and zonal equivalence table of ecosystem service values using the equivalence factor method and
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Regional ecosystem service value (ESV) is significantly influenced by factors such as land use/cover change (LUCC). In this study, from the perspective of spatio-temporal heterogeneity, we constructed a dynamic and zonal equivalence table of ecosystem service values using the equivalence factor method and analyzed the spatio-temporal changes in ecosystem service values of different agricultural plantation regions of the karst mountainous areas of southwestern China (Yunnan Province, YP) in the years from 1990 to 2020. Also, the ESV of YP in 2030 was simulated using the Patch-generating Land Use Simulation (PLUS) model. The results showed the following: (1) land use/land cover (LULC) in YP from 1990 to 2020 was dominated by needle-leaved forestland, broadleaved forestland, grassland, and rainfed cropland. (2) The total ESV in YP fluctuated between CNY 876.74 and 1323.68 B from 1990 to 2020, expanding at a rate of 50.98%. The largest portion of the total ESV comes from climate regulation. The ESV increased from east to west, and the positive spatial correlation of the ESV gradually weakened. (3) The ESV in YP was projected to reach CNY 1320.70 B by 2030, representing a decrease of ~ CNY 2.98 B since 2020. The results showed a decline in the ecological environment’s quality in YP.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Land Systems and Global Change)
Open AccessArticle
Recent Trends in Landscape Sustainability Research—A Bibliometric Assessment
by
Xuening Fang and Lingqiang Kong
Land 2024, 13(6), 811; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060811 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Landscape sustainability (LS) has received widespread attention from both scientists and practitioners in recent decades. However, a systematic review of the recent trends in this field remains scarce. Here, we present a bibliometric analysis of 715 English papers published in SCI journals (i.e.,
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Landscape sustainability (LS) has received widespread attention from both scientists and practitioners in recent decades. However, a systematic review of the recent trends in this field remains scarce. Here, we present a bibliometric analysis of 715 English papers published in SCI journals (i.e., indexed by Web of Science) during 2006–2023, whose titles, abstracts, or keywords contain both landscape-related terms and sustainability-related terms. Specifically, we quantitatively analyzed the LS literature using a variety of bibliometric methods and qualitatively analyzed the full text of highly cited seminal literature to cross-validate the bibliometric findings. We found that: (1) LS has entered the exponential growth phase (2013–present) after experiencing the incubation phase (pre–2006) and emerging phase (2006–2013). (2) Early LS themes focused on landscape change and the relationship between landscape ecology and sustainability science, while recent LS themes have shifted towards more sectoral topics, such as the relationship between ecosystem services and human well-being, climate change, and urbanization. (3) The closely connected network of cross-citations in seminal literature indicates strong communication among scientists in the field of LS. However, the participatory and solution-oriented research streams of LS have not been well integrated into the core research network of LS. Our results suggest that LS has evolved into a rapidly growing discipline with a stable scientific community and core research themes. To become a well-established discipline, LS needs to further enhance its unique scientific core rather than only drawing knowledge from other related fields. Constructing social–ecological-centered, solution-oriented landscape pattern analysis theory and methods for LS should be a top priority.
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(This article belongs to the Section Landscape Ecology)
Open AccessArticle
Spatio-Temporal Correlation and Optimization of Urban Development Characteristics and Carbon Balance in Counties: A Case Study of the Anhui Province, China
by
Yuling Wu, Hongyun Kan and Aili Deng
Land 2024, 13(6), 810; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060810 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Exploring the carbon balance pattern from the perspective of urban spatial development pattern is an effective way to solve the urban carbon emissions reduction problem, promote high-quality economic development, and synergize the development of the regional “nature–economy” dual system. Taking 105 counties (districts)
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Exploring the carbon balance pattern from the perspective of urban spatial development pattern is an effective way to solve the urban carbon emissions reduction problem, promote high-quality economic development, and synergize the development of the regional “nature–economy” dual system. Taking 105 counties (districts) in Anhui Province as an example, based on the calculation of regional carbon balance and urban development characteristics in 2001, 2010, and 2019, we used the spatio-temporal leap model to analyze urban development characteristics and combined the GWTR model and geodetic probes to explore the spatial and temporal correlation between the carbon balance and urban development characteristics, as well as their influence mechanisms. The results of the study show that: (1) The carbon balance of the 105 counties in Anhui Province shows a general decline in the time axis, with a small recovery, and the spatial sequence decreases and then increases from the north to the south. (2) The urban structure of southeast Anhui Province and central Anhui Province is stable, and the development status is good, but the carbon balance is out of balance, the carbon emissions are much higher than the carbon sinks, and the urban structure of the mountainous areas of west Anhui Province and north Anhui Province is dynamic and coordinated, with the carbon balance in harmony. (3) The spatial development characteristics of the cities in Anhui Province have a negative impact on the carbon balance at the scale-area level and a positive impact at the functional structure level. Among them, the area of urban built-up area and the number of the largest urban patches have strong explanatory power for the carbon balance, and the number of the largest urban patches is the main driver of spatial heterogeneity in the carbon balance. (4) The carbon budget of Anhui Province under the influence of urban spatial development characteristics can be divided into four regions: the economic development–carbon balance lopsided area, the ecological protection–carbon balance surplus area, the urban agglomeration–carbon balance adjustment area, and the potential enhancement–carbon balance equilibrium area. Based on the results, urban development needs to strengthen the construction of urban functional zones, and when formulating low-carbon policies in provinces with uneven development, it is necessary to comprehensively analyze the differences in development between cities and build cities according to local conditions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Land Systems and Global Change)
Open AccessArticle
Deciphering Land Use Transitions in Rural China: A Functional Perspective
by
Yanfeng Jiang, Tiantian Wang and Yuli Xu
Land 2024, 13(6), 809; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060809 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Although research on land use transitions has gradually received widespread attention since its introduction to China at the beginning of the new millennium, the lack of a clear portrayal of the transitional characteristics and pathways of land use at the theoretical level has
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Although research on land use transitions has gradually received widespread attention since its introduction to China at the beginning of the new millennium, the lack of a clear portrayal of the transitional characteristics and pathways of land use at the theoretical level has prevented this research from providing adequate support for the regulation and management of rural land use activities. This study aims to bridge this research gap from a functional perspective, since the transition of land system functions—also known as land use functions—heralds the completion of a regional land use transition. The methods employed included a literature review and theoretical analysis. The results show the following: (1) the relationships between land use morphology, land use multifunctionality, and land use functions transition (LUFT) were identified; (2) the connotation of the multifunctional agriculture transition theory was analyzed, and the applicability and limitations of drawing on the theory for researching the transition of land use functions in rural China elucidated; (3) a method for characterizing LUFT is proposed from the “state” and “quality”; (4) a theoretical framework for the LUFT was constructed and anchored in transition theory; and (5) it was summarized that there are three transitional pathways: weak-strong, strong-weak, and dynamic balance. In conclusion, while theories originating from the West can provide references for Chinese research, the significant difference between their socio-economic backgrounds necessitates reconstructing these theories in the light of the actual situation in rural China. The theoretical construction of land use transitions from a functional perspective can more clearly delineate the process, the trend, and the characteristics of the transitions of rural land use, thus offering valuable insights for the regulation and management of land use.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Deciphering Land-System Dynamics in China)
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Open AccessArticle
Quality Improvement of Urban Public Space from the Perspective of the Flâneur
by
Li Wang, Xiao Liu, Hao Zheng and Luca Caneparo
Land 2024, 13(6), 808; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060808 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
As the quality of public space has become significant for urban development, the creation of high-quality public spaces is becoming increasingly important. Since the implementation of urban renewal policies, an increasing number of buildings have emerged, creating new types of public spaces. Compared
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As the quality of public space has become significant for urban development, the creation of high-quality public spaces is becoming increasingly important. Since the implementation of urban renewal policies, an increasing number of buildings have emerged, creating new types of public spaces. Compared to original public spaces, new public spaces are more open, flexible, and diverse. The design of public spaces is closely related to users and the flâneur can precisely serve as a user and observer to conduct in-depth research. So, our study was conducted under the identity of the flâneur, focusing on two cases in Guangzhou. The flâneur completes the data collection through two methods. Static research involves observing and taking photos, whereas dynamic research involves interviews and questionnaires. This study analysed three aspects: the group category, behavioural diversity, and activity time and evaluated the public space using the NPS scale. The study found that the recommendation rate of new urban public spaces is higher than that of original public spaces. The study also found that original public spaces need to be improved in four ways: equipping furniture facilities, improving traffic congestion, increasing blue-green spaces, and establishing artistic spaces. New urban public spaces need to make efforts to create more interactive spaces and increase stagnation points.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom)
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Non-Breeding Season Habitat Selection of Three Commonly Occurring Bird Species in a Patchy Habitat in SE China
by
Xin Luo, Shuai Gao, Sichun Tong, Yao Cai, Zheng Wang and Ning Li
Land 2024, 13(6), 807; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060807 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Research into bird habitat selection can unveil the impact of specific habitat characteristics on bird survival. However, empirical information on the environmental factor preferences and differences within the yew ecological garden for birds is still lacking. This study was conducted in a yew
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Research into bird habitat selection can unveil the impact of specific habitat characteristics on bird survival. However, empirical information on the environmental factor preferences and differences within the yew ecological garden for birds is still lacking. This study was conducted in a yew ecological garden located in the southern experimental area of the Meihua Mountain National Nature Reserve, Fujian Province, China. We selected three commonly occurring bird species for analysis to discern the factors influencing habitat selection and interspecific differences and the impact of habitat environmental factors. Canopy density and coverage were identified as dominant factors influencing habitat selection for the Red-billed Blue Magpie (Urocissa erythrorhyncha), Black Bulbul (Hypsipetes leucocephalus), and Orange-bellied Leafbird (Chloropsis hardwickii). The height of perching trees, average tree height, and average diameter at breast height were all important determinants for the habitat selection of Red-billed Blue Magpie and Black Bulbul. These dominant factors were consistent with logistic regression analysis results. Both one-way ANOVA and stepwise discriminant analysis revealed significant differences in habitat selection among three commonly occurring bird species. Our results provide important insights into avian habitat selection in patchy habitats, which can be used as a guideline for future conservation and habitat management.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Species Vulnerability and Habitat Loss II)
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Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Constructed Wetland Landscape Patterns during Rapid Urbanization in Chengdu, China
by
Shiliang Liu, Yingying Chen, Rongjie Yang, Di Li, Yuling Qiu, Kezhu Lu, Xinhao Cao and Qibing Chen
Land 2024, 13(6), 806; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060806 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
The degradation of urban ecology, particularly in metropolitan areas distinguished by dense populations and impervious surfaces, presents a worldwide challenge linked to swift urban expansion. Despite extensive documentation of urbanization’s impact on broad regions or specific urban ecosystems over defined time periods, there
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The degradation of urban ecology, particularly in metropolitan areas distinguished by dense populations and impervious surfaces, presents a worldwide challenge linked to swift urban expansion. Despite extensive documentation of urbanization’s impact on broad regions or specific urban ecosystems over defined time periods, there remains a scarcity of studies investigating the spatiotemporal dynamics of landscape pattern (LP) changes in specific ecosystems at small-to-medium scales within inland megacities as a response to urbanization. Therefore, this work focused on the Bailuwan Wetland Park (BWP) in Chengdu, an inland megacity in southwestern China. Employing satellite imagery data from selected years spanning the previous decade (2010–2021, encompassing 2010, 2012, 2015, 2018, and 2021), this investigation delved into the influences of urbanization on the LP over various time-frames and across different land use/land cover (LULC) types. Our study revealed that urbanization has a significant impact on the patch-/landscape-level characteristics, including the class area (CA), number of patches (NP), patch density (PD), percentage of landscape (PLAND), aggregation index (AI), contagion index (CONTAG), largest patch index (LPI), landscape shape index (LSI), fractal dimension index (FRAC_MN), Shannon’s diversity (SHDI), and evenness index (SHEI). Over the period from 2010 to 2021, NP and PD experienced notable increases, while landscape shape (LSI/FRAC_MN) exhibited greater complexity and fragmentation (PLAND) intensified. Further, landscape heterogeneity (AI/CONTAG) and diversity (SHDI/SHEI) decreased. Particularly significant was the conversion of 52 ha of agricultural land to vegetation, resulting in heightened complexity and fragmentation in vegetation patterns. Additionally, the CA of lakes and rivers decreased following the establishment of the park, while the CA and NP of bare land presented significant increases. These findings suggest that rapid urbanization significantly influences the spatial–temporal dynamics of wetland landscape patterns. Consequently, it is imperative for society to prioritize the restoration and protection of urban constructed wetlands.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Ecosystem Services: 5th Edition)
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Spatio-Temporal Dynamics and Drivers of Ecosystem Service Bundles in the Altay Region: Implications for Sustainable Land Management
by
Suyan Yi, Hongwei Wang, Ling Xie, Can Wang and Xin Huang
Land 2024, 13(6), 805; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060805 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Understanding the dynamics of ecosystem services (ESs) in arid landscapes and socio-ecological systems is crucial for sustainable development and human well-being. This study uses the Invest model to quantify the spatio-temporal changes in four key ecosystems services in Altay from 1990 to 2020:
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Understanding the dynamics of ecosystem services (ESs) in arid landscapes and socio-ecological systems is crucial for sustainable development and human well-being. This study uses the Invest model to quantify the spatio-temporal changes in four key ecosystems services in Altay from 1990 to 2020: water yield (water yield), carbon stock (carbon stock), soil retention (soil retention), and habitat quality (habitat quality). The trade-offs/synergies between different ESs were investigated via Spearman’s correlation analysis. Ecosystem service bundles (ESBs) were mapped using self-organizing mapping (SOM), and the key drivers of ES relationships and the spatio-temporal dynamics of ESBs were revealed through redundancy analysis. The results showed that water yield increased by 33.7% and soil retention increased by 1.2%, while carbon stock and habitat quality decreased by 3.5% and 1.24%, respectively. The spatial distribution pattern had a clear zonal pattern, with the northern mountainous areas higher than the southern desert areas. The six pairs of ESs, in general, showed mainly low trade-off and high synergistic relationships, with trade-offs between water yield and carbon stock, soil retention and habitat quality, and a decreasing trend of trade-offs over time. Four types of ESBs were distinguished, and the compositional differences and spatial distribution within each ESB were determined by interactions between ESs and landscape types. There are complex non-linear relationships between the drivers and the four ESBs in different years. Before 2010, ecological factors were the key drivers influencing the spatio-temporal changes in ESBs, whereas social and environmental factors combined to drive changes in ESB allocations after 2010. Additionally, this study found that the implementation of conservation measures, such as reforestation and sustainable land management practices, positively influenced the provision of ecosystem services in the Altay region. These findings underscore the importance of integrating conservation efforts into land use planning and decision-making processes to ensure the sustainable delivery of ecosystem services in arid landscapes.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Multi-Scale Geographic Environmental Monitoring: Theory, Methodology and Applications)
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The Use of Drones for Cost-Effective Surveys in Natura 2000 Protected Areas: A Case Study on Monitoring Plant Diversity in Sicily (Italy)
by
Gianmarco Tavilla, Alessandro Crisafulli, Pietro Minissale, Valeria Tomaselli and Maria Adamo
Land 2024, 13(6), 804; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060804 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, present a cost-effective solution for the swift collection of data from vast and remote areas that are otherwise difficult to access. The Mediterranean Basin, known for being a hotspot for plant biodiversity, hosts several habitats
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Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, present a cost-effective solution for the swift collection of data from vast and remote areas that are otherwise difficult to access. The Mediterranean Basin, known for being a hotspot for plant biodiversity, hosts several habitats and taxa of significant naturalistic value. However, many of these areas are often inaccessible to botanists, making exploration and research challenging. The aim of this paper is to involve the utilization of drone surveys and open-source software for botanical research. Our primary goal is to show the effectiveness of these tools in the field and demonstrate their practical application in Natura 2000 sites. The protected area chosen for this research is Rocca di Novara, situated in northeastern Sicily. Thanks to our drone investigations, we were able to capture images of a mountainside that is inaccessible to humans. This allowed us to observe the habitat of some species in detail. One of the most fascinating discoveries was the reappearance of Saxifraga callosa subsp. australis, which had not been confirmed in this area for over 140 years. Using drones for botanical research can boost field research, making monitoring easier and more cost-effective over time, especially in Natura 2000 sites.
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(This article belongs to the Section Land – Observation and Monitoring)
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Evolutionary Characteristics, Regional Differences and Spatial Convergence of China’s Sustainable Agricultural Development Level
by
Honghui Zhu and Xin Zheng
Land 2024, 13(6), 803; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060803 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Sustainable agricultural development is a fundamental requirement and a crucial goal of modern agriculture. It is also a significant means of enabling farmers to increase their incomes. This paper analyses the evolutionary characteristics, regional differences and spatial convergence of the level of sustainable
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Sustainable agricultural development is a fundamental requirement and a crucial goal of modern agriculture. It is also a significant means of enabling farmers to increase their incomes. This paper analyses the evolutionary characteristics, regional differences and spatial convergence of the level of sustainable agricultural development using kernel density estimation, Dagum’s Gini coefficient and the spatial convergence model based on panel data from 30 provinces in China from 2012 to 2021.The results show that: (1) At the level of development, the level of sustainable agricultural development at the national level and in the three major regions has shown an upward trend with fluctuations, with the average level of development in the eastern and central parts of the country higher than the national average, and in the western part of the country lower than the national average; however, the growth rate in the western part of the country is the highest among the three major regions. (2) In terms of evolutionary characteristics, the level of sustainable agricultural development in the country and the three major regions is characterised by spatial agglomeration, with varying degrees of polarisation. (3) In terms of regional differences, the Gini coefficients for the country as a whole, within the three major regions and between regions, generally show a downward trend, with interregional differences remaining the main source of overall differences. (4) In terms of spatial convergence, there is σ-convergence and β-convergence in the level of sustainable agricultural development across the country and the three major regions, and there is a positive spatial spillover effect. The conditional β convergence results show that the eastern region has the fastest rate of convergence. The above findings provide a scientific basis for the formulation of policies related to sustainable agricultural development in China.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agriculture, Forestry, Land Allocation and Environmental Sustainability)
Open AccessArticle
The Use of an Optimized Grey Multi-Objective Programming-PLUS Model for Multi-Scenario Simulation of Land Use in the Weigan–Kuche River Oasis, China
by
Kangning Dong, Hongwei Wang, Kui Luo, Xiaomei Yan, Suyan Yi and Xin Huang
Land 2024, 13(6), 802; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060802 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
The oasis serves as the primary supply of cultivable land, along with the hub for human production and habitation in Xinjiang. Accordingly, predicting the land use of these areas based on various goals is an effective instrument for encouraging the sensible distribution of
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The oasis serves as the primary supply of cultivable land, along with the hub for human production and habitation in Xinjiang. Accordingly, predicting the land use of these areas based on various goals is an effective instrument for encouraging the sensible distribution of resource space. The study investigated the creation of a land use-allocation optimization model based on the various objectives of ecological protection, food security, and urban growth using the Weigan–Kuche River oasis as an example. The GMOP-PLUS model’s restriction conversion area was adjusted to include the findings of the land suitability evaluation. Additionally, it optimized and simulated the spatial arrangement and quantitative structure of land usage in the Weigan–Kuche River oasis in 2035. The results indicate the following: (1) the model’s overall accuracy is 89.36%, and its Kappa coefficient is 0.872, more than 0.8. Thus, the model can be considered for adoption in the future when predicting changes in land use in the districts and counties of the Weigan–Kuche River oasis; (2) based on the results of the land suitability evaluation, the percentage of areas that are most suited for agricultural development, urban development, and ecological protection is 39.32%, 24.21%, and 14.06%, respectively; and (3) the three scenarios satisfy the various demands for growth within the oasis, and the land use structure of the oasis varies considerably in response to the various development objectives, with the construction and cultivated land undergoing the most substantial modifications. The multi-scenario simulation of land usage in the oasis can provide essential support and a range of perspectives for future land spatial planning and socioeconomic development decision-making in the Weigan–Kuche River oasis. This is essential for both the efficient use of land resources and sustainable development.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agriculture, Forestry, Land Allocation and Environmental Sustainability)
Open AccessArticle
Assessment of Carbon Storage in a Multifunctional Landscape: A Case Study of Central Asia
by
Xinyue Dong, Zeyu Cao, Yi Guo, Jingyuan Lin, Hanze Yan, Mengyu Li and Peng Yao
Land 2024, 13(6), 801; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060801 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
The robust carbon storage (CS) capacity of terrestrial ecosystems is crucial in mitigating climate change and holds indispensable significance for global sustainable development. The diverse topography of Central Asia (CA), comprising oases, grasslands, forests, deserts, and glaciers, has fostered industries like animal husbandry,
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The robust carbon storage (CS) capacity of terrestrial ecosystems is crucial in mitigating climate change and holds indispensable significance for global sustainable development. The diverse topography of Central Asia (CA), comprising oases, grasslands, forests, deserts, and glaciers, has fostered industries like animal husbandry, irrigation agriculture, and mining. However, the fragile arid ecosystems of CA render it highly sensitive to climate change and human activities, with their impact on the sustainable development of multifunctional landscapes in this region remaining ambiguous in the future. This study linked land use changes with multiple socio-economic and ecological indicators to predict the dynamics of land use and changes in CS in CA. The findings reveal a significant spatial heterogeneity in CS, with considerable variations among five countries driven by differences in landscape composition. Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, characterized by grasslands, demonstrate higher CS per unit area, whereas Turkmenistan, dominated by barren land, exhibits the lowest CS per unit area. Strategies involving innovative development and improved biodiversity conservation have proven effective in augmenting CS. Meanwhile, high economic and population growth stimulates the expansion of cropland and urban land, reducing the CS capacity of ecosystems. This study contributes to a more precise assessment of CS dynamics in CA. Furthermore, by elucidating the interrelationships between future socio-economic development and environmental conservation in CA, it offers solutions for enhancing the conservation of multifunctional landscapes in CA.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Governance of Ecosystems Sustainability in a Multifunctional Landscape)
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Quantitative Evaluation and Evolution Characteristics of Consistency Level of Black Soil Conservation Policy, Taking China’s Black Soil Protection Policy as an Example
by
Fan Zhang, Peng Han, Ling Wu and Zhanwei Tian
Land 2024, 13(6), 800; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060800 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Scientifically evaluating China’s black soil protection policy and exploring its evolution characteristics are crucial for promoting high-quality and efficient black soil protection projects worldwide. Utilizing the Policy Modeling Consistency (PMC) index model, the effectiveness of China’s black soil protection policy system is assessed.
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Scientifically evaluating China’s black soil protection policy and exploring its evolution characteristics are crucial for promoting high-quality and efficient black soil protection projects worldwide. Utilizing the Policy Modeling Consistency (PMC) index model, the effectiveness of China’s black soil protection policy system is assessed. Building upon this evaluation, the research delves into the evolution process of the black soil protection policy system, examining its dynamic characteristics across different government levels. Through the application of text mining technology and visual analysis techniques, the study explores four dimensions: keyword co-occurrence, vertical synergy calculation, policy theme identification, and policy tool analysis. The results show the following: (1) The PMC index showed a phased growth trend, and various indicators gradually improved and tended to be stable. (2) Government policies at the same level exhibit progressive evolution patterns in terms of policy keywords and themes. (3) Across different levels of government, there are hierarchical lag evolution rules observed in policy keywords and provincial policy tools. Additionally, policy keywords display vertical synergy evolution patterns. In conclusion, future black soil conservation policies need to reduce hierarchical delays, enhance the coverage and comprehensiveness of policy content, and establish a sound policy feedback mechanism. The conclusions of the study are significant for improving management approaches throughout the black soil zones of the world.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land Use Policy and Food Security)
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Wastewater Management Strategy for Resilient Cities—Case Study: Challenges and Opportunities for Planning a Sustainable Timor-Leste
by
Zulmira Ximenes da Costa, Floris Cornelis Boogaard, Valente Ferreira and Satoshi Tamura
Land 2024, 13(6), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060799 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
High population growth, a lack of wastewater treatment plants and poor wastewater management are major challenges in wastewater management in Timor-Leste (East Timor). One of the approaches of the government of Timor-Leste is to separate wastewater into greywater and blackwater from domestic, commercial,
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High population growth, a lack of wastewater treatment plants and poor wastewater management are major challenges in wastewater management in Timor-Leste (East Timor). One of the approaches of the government of Timor-Leste is to separate wastewater into greywater and blackwater from domestic, commercial, residential, and industrial areas. Three methods were applied to obtain insight into the locations and discharge of grey- and blackwater to develop a cost-effective wastewater strategy: a field survey and data collection, interviews with over 130 participants from local authorities and communities, and the open-source mapping of locations of wastewater discharge. This research concluded that 47.7% of the grey wastewater is discharged into open sewers connected directly to the sea. Most communities discharge their wastewater directly due to the absence of wastewater management, policies and regulations, and lack of communities’ understanding of the possible health impacts of wastewater. The impact of poor wastewater management showed that most of the children in these communities have suffered from diarrhea (73.8%), and in the rainy season, there is a high possibility of infection with waterborne diseases. The literature review, field mapping, and interviews show that there is high demand for a cost-effective wastewater strategy for health improvement. Low-cost nature-based solutions such as constructed wetlands and bioswales can be implemented with local skills and materials to improve the wastewater situation and address other challenges such as biodiversity loss, heat stress, drought, and floodings. These installations are easier to rebuild than large-scale grey infrastructure given the multiple hazards that occur in Timor-Leste: landslides, earthquakes, strong wind, and pluvial and fluvial floodings, and they can serve as coastal protection.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Resources and Land Use Planning II)
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Can Farmland Transfer Reduce Fertilizer Nonpoint Source Pollution? Evidence from China
by
Ziming Bai, Xiaochen Zhang, Jiabin Xu and Cuixia Li
Land 2024, 13(6), 798; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060798 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
China repeatedly surpasses international fertilizer safety limits, resulting in significant fertilizer nonpoint source pollution (denoted as FNSP), which adversely affects food security and agricultural sustainability. Simultaneously, farmland transfer has emerged as a pivotal strategy for transitioning between agricultural production methods. The present study
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China repeatedly surpasses international fertilizer safety limits, resulting in significant fertilizer nonpoint source pollution (denoted as FNSP), which adversely affects food security and agricultural sustainability. Simultaneously, farmland transfer has emerged as a pivotal strategy for transitioning between agricultural production methods. The present study aims to investigate the relationship between farmland transfer and FNSP. In line with the aim of the study, based on China’s panel data from 2005 to 2020, the fixed-effect model, mediating-effect model, spatial Durbin model, and threshold regression model are employed. The findings reveal that farmland transfer exerts a significant inhibitory effect on FNSP. The reduction in FNSP through farmland transfer is facilitated by the decrease in fertilizer application intensity and increase in compound fertilizer application. Further, farmland transfer demonstrates a significant spatial spillover effect on FNSP, mitigating pollution levels within regions and influencing neighboring areas. Moreover, a nonlinear relationship between farmland transfer and FNSP is observed. These findings contribute to understanding the intricate dynamics between agricultural land management strategies and environmental sustainability, offering valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders engaged in promoting green and sustainable agricultural practices.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agricultural Land Management to Meet Future Global Food Demand (Second Edition))
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Research on Territorial Spatial Development Non-Equilibrium and Temporal–Spatial Patterns from a Conjugate Perspective: Evidence from Chinese Provincial Panel Data
by
Aihui Ma, Yijia Gao and Wanmin Zhao
Land 2024, 13(6), 797; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060797 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Clarifying the intrinsic nature and formation mechanisms of the territorial spatial development non-equilibrium, optimizing the allocation of territorial resources, promoting regional balanced development, and alleviating regional development disparities have become common endeavors of all countries seeking to enhance development quality. This study, based
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Clarifying the intrinsic nature and formation mechanisms of the territorial spatial development non-equilibrium, optimizing the allocation of territorial resources, promoting regional balanced development, and alleviating regional development disparities have become common endeavors of all countries seeking to enhance development quality. This study, based on the land use and socio-economic data of 31 provinces and cities in China from 2006 to 2020, utilized the kernel density estimation method and ArcGIS spatial analysis to explore the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of China’s territorial spatial development non-equilibrium. The research findings are as follows: (1) From 2006 to 2020, both the land development intensity and land supply capacity showed an increasing trend, with increases of 21.4% and 8.03%, respectively. However, their spatiotemporal evolutions significantly differed. (2) The state of the territorial spatial development non-equilibrium in China significantly improved, with a rising trend in the territorial spatial equilibrium degree. Regional disparities in the territorial spatial equilibrium degree decreased. The number of provinces and cities in a state of underdevelopment decreased from 23 to 8, while the number in an equilibrium state increased from 7 to 21. The central and western regions showed more significant improvements in the territorial spatial equilibrium degree and a greater reduction in regional disparity when compared to the eastern and northeastern regions. (3) China exhibited distinct regional disparities in the territorial spatial equilibrium degree. The overdeveloped areas were Beijing and Shanghai. The underdeveloped regions were primarily concentrated in western areas, including Sichuan, Yunnan, and Xinjiang. The high-level equilibrium regions were predominantly located in the southeastern coastal provinces and the central plains region, while the low-level equilibrium regions included Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, Qinghai, and the three northeastern provinces. (4) From the perspective of the number of agglomeration types, the order is HH (high–high) > LH (low–high) > LL (low–low) > HL (high–low), and China’s TSED exhibits a spatial proximity peer effect. The innovation of this study consists of the following aspects: (1) The clarification of the fact that the essence of equilibrium does not require an exact 1:1 match, as with “two horses”; rather, it entails the maintenance of a slight surplus of land supply capacity over land development intensity. This approach allows the possibility of future sustainable development by leaving room for expansion. (2) The differentiation between high-intensity conjugation (in terms of both quantity and quality) and low-intensity conjugation (quantity only) from a conjugate perspective. This categorization aids in a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the territorial spatial development non-equilibrium and its spatiotemporal patterns. It provides crucial information for the formulation of sustainable national territorial development plans and the promotion of a regional development equilibrium.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land Resource Use Efficiency and Sustainable Land Use)
Open AccessArticle
Trend Analysis of MODIS Land Surface Temperature and Land Cover in Central Italy
by
Ebrahim Ghaderpour, Paolo Mazzanti, Francesca Bozzano and Gabriele Scarascia Mugnozza
Land 2024, 13(6), 796; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060796 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Land Surface Temperature (LST) is an important climate factor for understanding the relationship between the land surface and atmosphere. Furthermore, LST is linked to soil moisture and evapotranspiration, which can potentially alter the severity and regime of wildfires, landslide-triggering precipitation thresholds, and others.
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Land Surface Temperature (LST) is an important climate factor for understanding the relationship between the land surface and atmosphere. Furthermore, LST is linked to soil moisture and evapotranspiration, which can potentially alter the severity and regime of wildfires, landslide-triggering precipitation thresholds, and others. In this paper, the monthly daytime and nighttime LST products of Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) are employed for the period 2000–2023 in order to find areas that have been cooling or warming in a region of great interest in Central Italy, due to its complex geological and geomorphological settings and its recent seismic sequences and landslide events. The annual MODIS land cover images for 2001–2022 are also utilized to investigate the interconnection between LST and land cover change. The results of the non-parametric Mann–Kendall trend test and its associated Sen’s slope reveal a significant nighttime warming trend in the region, particularly in July, linked to forest and woodland expansion. Grasslands toward the coastline with low elevation (less than 500 m a.s.l.) have experienced significant heat waves during the summer, with an LST of more than 35 C. A significant negative correlation between the elevation and LST is observed for each calendar month. In particular, the daytime and nighttime LST have more than 80% correlation with elevation during winter and summer, respectively. In addition, nighttime warming and gradual drainage are noticed in Lake Campotosto. The results of this study could be useful for wildfire and landslide susceptibility analyses and hazard management.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ground Deformation Monitoring via Remote Sensing Time Series Data)
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