Cartographic Methods Research Articles

A CARTOGRAPHY OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HEALTH AND UMBANDA PRACTICES

This study objective to understand the relationship between health and Umbanda practices, given the suffering processes of people who seek religion as a way of understanding suffering and how rituals, dances, and their orixás are related to this process. The cartographic method was used to develop the research, which allowed us more freedom to deal with the topic, exploring our ability to interact with the environment. As results and dissemination, it is confirmed that the terreiro and having participated in tours provided us with a unique lesson with the work, for the preparation of this study it was necessary to conduct interviews with regulars of the João da Mata terreiro in order to consolidate the information that was being known in the land. Analysis of these interviews revealed in questions to be presented to the society that discriminates against Umbanda so much. Coming to the conclusion that Umbanda, like other religions, provides a safe place where people place their faith, and becomes a significant object where people have the need to participate and follow their ideologies as a way of promoting health and well-being. Psychology has a social duty to stipulate means of intervention for demands that have a religious character and guarantee the right of every individual to health, meaning professionals must always be up to date on possible demands.

Efficiency of Digestate from Biogas Plants for the Formation of Bio-Organic Technologies in Agriculture

The article examines the potential of digestate from biogas plants as a high-quality organic fertilizer that can ensure environmentally friendly development of the agro-industrial complex. The essence of the European Green Deal, the role of biogas production, and the use of digestate for achieving a climate neutral economy are considered. The purpose of the article was to analyze the potential of digestate production in Ukraine and to substantiate its role in Ukraine’s achievement of the goals set by the European Green Deal. The research was carried out according to dialectical and systemic approaches, using monographic, economic-statistical, index, and cartographic methods. The results showed that Ukraine needs further development of biogas production and an increase in digestate production to meet the demand of agricultural enterprises for organic fertilizers, as there is currently an urgent need to increase soil fertility. It was determined that, in addition to European integration processes and the implementation of “green” technologies, a driving force for the intensification of digestate use is the high cost of mineral fertilizers on the Ukrainian and world markets, as well as high efficacy of digestate as an organic fertilizer. The authors proposed and calculated the green agriculture index, which is based on the calculation of the ratio of the amount of active substance, the rate of mineral fertilizers, kg to the rate of application of organic fertilizers, t/ha. Its levels (intensive, growing, declining, extensive) were determined by the regions of Ukraine, and strategies for the use of digestate were developed depending on the level of the region’s greening. It was proven that the future of Ukrainian agriculture should be based on green agriculture and the active use of digestate as a fertilizer, which will help to produce environmentally friendly products, increase production volumes, and reduce the ecological burden on the environment. The use of digestate will help to achieve a reduction in the application of mineral fertilizers up to 25% by 2030 in accordance with the eco-goals of the European Green Deal.
 Keywords: digestate, bio-organic technologies, fertilizers, biogas

Planning of rational use of forest resources in Ukraine based on the improvement of ecosystem services

The study of land conservation methods for forest conservation and restoration is important and relevant from the standpoint of balanced use of natural resources and biodiversity conservation. The purpose of the study was to investigate effective strategies for the exploitation of land with self-forested areas to meet the needs of the agricultural sector of the Zolochiv District of the Lviv Oblast. In the course of the study, the following methods were used: analysis; geographical method; statistical method; cartographic method; geoinformation method. It is worth noting that for the land plot No. 1 within the Buska territorial community of Lviv Oblast, it was recommended to conserve the land, with its subsequent renaturalisation. According to the results of the analysis, it is shown that in 2011 the processes of independent afforestation of agricultural land within the Busk territorial community were insignificant. In 2023, the situation improved, as the area of afforded land increased significantly. To the soils of the land plot No. 2, which was part of the Brody urban community, it was advisable to use conservation and transformation. In the Zolochiv community, 14.2 hectares of land should be rehabilitated, 27.3 hectares should be transformed into pasture, and 3.5 hectares should be alkalised. The paper suggests the introduction of innovative approaches for integrated planning of the use of forest resources: creation of forest farms, development of forest tourism, creation of special forest stands for air filtration, application of bio-refining technology, etc. The findings can be used by local communities to develop and implement a draft of measures for the comprehensive development plan of the territory of the Lviv Oblast to improve forest ecosystem services

Analysis of natural prerequisites for the development of ecotourism in nature conservation areas (on the example of the Pyryatynskyi National Nature Park)


 
 
 This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the natural recreational resources of Piryatinsky NNP, which are attractive for the development of ecotourism. To achieve this goal, the paper uses general scientific methods of scientific knowledge (analysis and synthesis from information sources), as well as the cartographic method. Recommendations for attracting more ecotourists have been formulated and an ecotourism bicycle route has been developed. To determine the period of maximum recreational activity, a phenological calendar of visits to the park’s protected area was created. The results of this study highlight that spring and summer provide the best conditions for a wide range of activities: animal and plant observation, walking along ecological trails, hiking, and representation of the entire natural complex of the Uday River floodplain. Species diversity in autumn and winter is much lower, so visitors are offered a range of activities including zoo ecotourism, landscape ecotourism, and aqua ecotourism. It is also worth noting that not all natural locations are easily accessible, as 40.1% of the land is covered by wet-lands. The development of ecotourism within Piryatinsky NNP is promising, given the significant species biodiversity and the fact that the NNP is part of the Emerald Network of Europe, including the world’s smallest flower plant, the wolfia. When studying a protected area to organise ecotourism, it is necessary to take into account the availability of tourist infrastructure – equipped recreational areas for tourists, rental offices, etc. Based on the above material, it can be noted that a favorable basis for the development of ecotourism in Piryatinsky NNP is the following: location (proximity to Chernihiv and Kyiv regions; the administrative center of Piryatin city community in Lubny district; landscaped and «undeveloped» areas), biodiversity (attractive objects; river valley terraces), bioclimatic and environmental favourability. The park also has ecotourism routes and an educational eco-trail. Thus, the considered NNP as one of the ecotourism sites in Poltava region is an interesting place for environmental research. The practical significance of the study will allow involving stakeholders (local residents, business organizations) in active actions to develop ecotourism. The information presented in this paper will allow for certain decisions to be made when developing a park management strategy, as well as in the geographical distribution of guide training.
 
 

Impact of the Russian-Ukrainian war on the European economy

ABSTRACT The article aims to identify the origin of the key sources of economic threats to Europe as a result of the Russian invasion, evaluate them and suggest ways to minimise or eliminate such threats. The methods of establishing cause-effect relationships, analysis, synthesis, graphical and cartographic methods, statistical analysis, analysis of dynamics and structure were all used. The background and causes of the war were considered, the economic consequences for Ukraine, including damage to the population and infrastructure, trends in the dynamics of gross domestic product, exports, imports and consumer prices were studied.

КВІТКОВИЙ ТУРИЗМ В КАРПАТСЬКОМУ РЕГІОНІ УКРАЇНИ ЯК ТРЕНД РОЗВИТКУ ГАЛУЗІ

The purpose of the scientific research is to reflect on the example of the Carpathian region of Ukraine the resources of flower tourism, to study the geography of their distribution, as well as the current state and prospects for the development of this type of tourism within the region. Methodology. In the study, the method of scientific systematization of information is used to identify places of flower tourism in the Carpathian region of Ukraine; the method of field research to identify the specifics of the activities of farms engaged in the cultivation of flowering plants; the location of resources within the region is displayed using the cartographic method. Results. The concept of "flower tourism" is specified, in particular, attention is focused on its belonging to niche types of tourism. The types of resources of flower tourism of the Carpathian region of Ukraine are summarized and their classification by the method of growth and purpose of use is proposed. The list of places for flower tourism in the region is grouped using such parameters as: type of location, presence of a flowering plant, flowering period, etc. It was found out that Zakarpattia region is the leader in the number of flower locations. The region has a wide range of flowering plants - sakura, lavender, crocuses, daffodils, magnolias, tulip trees, and almonds. The map of the geography of flower tourism resources allows to draw conclusions about their location within the region, as well as proximity or distance from the main tourist centers. On the example of the Lviv tour operator "Vidviday", selected tourist products involving places of flower tourism were analyzed. It was revealed that an essential feature of all flower tours is the additional inclusion of other tourist objects in the program of stay. The problems of development are summarized, and conclusions are made regarding the prospects for the development of flower tourism in the region. The scientific novelty of the results is analysis of the resource potential of flower tourism in the Carpathian region of Ukraine, study of created tourist products with the involvement of these resources, as well as justification of the possibilities of their further use in tourism. The practical importance. The obtained research results will be used in the process of forming tourist products in the territory of the Carpathian region of Ukraine, as well as in the educational process of training future specialists in the specialty "Tourism and Recreation". In addition, the findings can be useful for state authorities for the formation of strategies, as well as the implementation of state or regional tourism development programs.

Changes in the ethnic structure of the population of Central Asia countries in the post-Soviet period

Central Asia is the only macro-region of the post-Soviet space where population growth has been observed over the past three decades, accompanied by a significant restructuring of the ethnic structure. The purpose of the study is to identify the most significant factors that influenced the change in the national composition of the population of the countries of Central Asia that occurred in the post-Soviet era, or more precisely, in the period between 1989 and 2021. The study is based on statistical, graphical and cartographic methods. The analysis showed that the most important factor influencing the change in the ethnic structure of the population of Central Asia in the post-Soviet period was the high natural increase in the titular peoples of the countries of the macroregion, which led to a more than doubling of their numbers in their republics. The second important factor in the ethnic restructuring of the Central Asian states was the reduction in the size of the non-titular population of the republics as a result of their migration outflow and natural decline. The opposite dynamics of the titular and non-titular populations of the Central Asian republics in the post-Soviet period led to a sharp increase in the share of titular peoples in their populations. Currently, in all countries of Central Asia, the share of titular peoples exceeds 70 %, and Tajikistan can already be considered a mononational state.

Application of modern survey and cartographic methods for documenting and presenting existing and historical workings of the UNESCO heritage site: Silver mine in Tarnowskie Góry

In this article, contemporary survey and cartographic methods were employed to document and present both the existing and historical workings of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Silver Mine in Tarnowskie Góry. Terrestrial laser scanning was utilized to capture detailed point clouds, which were then processed for advanced 3D applications. Due to the mine’s limited man-made roof supports, traditional vectorization methods were found to be impractical. Instead, ContexCapture Bentley software was used to create a detailed mesh model, overcoming the limitations of standard mesh algorithms in capturing intricate interior details. The project also integrated historical and current maps, orthophotos, and a digital terrain model to enrich the dataset. For georeferencing, fixed church locations were used, and vector layers were developed to map shafts, adits, water tunnels, and narrow-gauge railways, with each layer annotated with historical and geometric attributes. This approach not only preserves the mine’s complex features but also enhances its usability for future analysis and educational purposes. The resulting data offers a comprehensive, interactive representation of the mine, providing valuable insights into its historical importance and its ongoing role in the region’s mining heritage.

Карты Дальнего Востока России XVIII в., составленные участниками академических и правительственных экспедиций и на их основе, как источник по истории изучения региона и картографии как науки

The article has carried out the approbation of the theoretical and methodological principles of the neoclassical paradigm of historical science, anthropological and spatial turns, and an interdisciplinary approach to the study of maps of the Far East of the 18th century, made by participants of Russian academic and government expeditions and based on them. These materials show the evolution of cartography and cartographic method in Russia. The role of maps as a special form of representation of the course and results of scientific development of the Far East is investigated. The functions of specific elements of the content of maps and the influence of the actor on it are revealed. The history of the existence of individual cartographic materials is considered. The significance of maps as complex historical and historical-scientific sources is represented.

Зонирование территории России на основе региональных особенностей изменения численности городского населения в период с 1989 по 2020 г.

The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 led to a change in the settlement system of the population, including urban ones. This was due to the socio-economic transformations that were taking place at the time. As a result, the process of megacity urbanization has been actively ongoing, with the concentration of people in large cities and regional capitals being a key feature. This has had a significant impact on the current state of Russia's urban landscape, and there is a need for further research into these processes. To better understand the current situation and potential future directions for the urban structure of the country, statistical analysis methods were used to analyze population dynamics in all Russian cities from 1989 to 2020. To visualize the data obtained, a cartographic method was used and areas of population growth or decline in cities were identified. The country is divided into nine regions, with six regions seeing an increase in urban population (Southwest, Northwestern, Central, Volga-Ural, Southern, and Siberian) and three regions seeing a decrease (Asian, European, and South Siberian). Over the period under consideration, the settlement pattern of urban areas has changed, with polarization increasing (between cities and rural areas, as well as between large cities and small cities), and regional inequalities deepening. However, there are also opportunities to overcome these negative trends through the implementation of an active regional policy, the promotion of new employment opportunities in remote areas, and the provision of social support to the population.

Донные ландшафты на подводном береговом склоне у мыса Таран (юго-восточное побережье Балтийского моря)

The article addresses the dynamics of the representation of the Russian population in the Baltic republics during the rise of Russophobic sentiments in these countries from 2018 to 2023. The aim of the article is to identify current trends in the dynamics of the Russian ethnic population in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, considering the spatial characteristics of their settlement, and to compare this with the situation before the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The research is based on official data from national statistical departments, including the results of population censuses (both national and all-Union since 1959). The methodological foundation of the study includes general scientific methods (generalization, analysis, comparison), as well as statistical and cartographic methods. The study finds that the rate of decline in the number and share of Russians significantly increased after 2021, particularly in Estonia — by a factor of 10 in 2021 compared to 2020. Negative trends are observed across all regions. The highest representation of Russians in the ethnic structure of the Baltic republics remains in the capitals, border municipalities adjacent to Russia, and historically Russian-settled territories, where the decline in the Russian share is most pronounced.

Innovative approaches to qualitative land assessment and valuation: use of modern technologies and geoinformation x systems

The article examines modern methods and technologies that can be used to increase the accuracy of land valuation. The authors analyze the current problems in the field of rating and offer ways of integrating geoinformation systems with the aim of creating a more objective and information-rich picture of land quality. The purpose of the article. Study of the potential of using the latest technologies and geoinformation systems in determining the quality and classification of land with the intention of increasing accuracy and impartiality in the assessment of land resources. Research methods. During the research, the following methods were used: comparative analysis, the method of automated image decoding, the cartographic method and the geo-information mapping method. The results. The article emphasizes the importance of geoinformation systems in the collection, processing and analysis of data, which allows taking into account a wide range of factors when evaluating land, including erosion processes, soil fertility, ecological status and other critically important indicators. Special attention is paid to the possibilities of using remote sensing and other automated methods for data collection. Conclusions. The results of the research are of practical importance, as they can be used to optimize agricultural management, plan the use of land resources, and develop strategies for their effective use and protection. Prospects for further research may include the development of new algorithms for the analysis and processing of data obtained from satellite images, as well as the improvement of existing geoinformation models for land evaluation. Integration of the obtained models and systems into the practical aspects of land use and agricultural management is also envisaged to optimize the use of land resources and increase the efficiency of land use.

THE CHANGES OF THE AİR TEMPERATURE CHARACTERİSTİCS İN THE AZERBAİJAN TERRİTORY DURING GLOBAL CLİMATE CHANGES PERIOD

Background. Air temperature observation data covering the years 1981–2022 of about 70 hydrometeorological stations operating in the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan were used in the study. In order to determine the influence of climate changes on the air temperature regime, the results of 1981–2010 were compared with the corresponding results of 2011–2022. Methods. In the study, the trend of monthly, seasonal and multiannual changes in air temperature was considered using mathematical, statistical and cartographic methods. Results. Studies show that the air temperature has increased by 0.90C at the country level. The positive anomaly has been reached to 1.3° C at the belt with an altitude of 2001–2500 m. The main high indicators were noted in highland regions. The temperature anomaly is in the range of 1.5–1.7° C, mostly in May and June months. Long-term temperature dynamics show that in 2001–2010 the temperature increase (0.057° C / 1 year) is observed. It was the warmest time during 1961–2022 comparing with previous decade. The results of the study can be used in the protection against climate changes, mitigation and studying the modern temperature regime. In addition, solar radiation can be used as an alternative energy source in flat areas where high air temperature indicators are observed. The results will be announced at the conference on climate change COP 29 (Conferences of the Parties), which will be held in Baku on November 11–22, 2024. Conclusions. The influence of climate changes in the air temperature regime in the territory of Azerbaijan will lead to the disruption of the traditional climate regime, the disappearance of the green landscape and expansion of semi-desert and arid landscape in the front mountainous areas, the increase of possible evaporation and the increasing of environmental crises such as drought at the 1000 m elevations. An increase in the radiation balance in Nakhchivan province may worsen the continentality of the climate type here. The increase in temperature in the Kura depression province will create conditions for the expansion of the semi-desert-arid climate in the piedmonts of the Greater Caucasus Mountains.

Prospects for international cooperation and development of tourism and recreational sphere in the Russian-Belarusian border area

The article examines the key directions for the development of interregional cooperation between the Russian and Belarusian border areas in the field of tourism and recreation. The relevance of this problem is justified by the fact that the intensification of the activities of the Union State can become a driver for the development of the territory under study through interregional cross-border cooperation. The purpose of the article is to assess the prospects for interregional cooperation and development of the tourism and recreational sector of the border region. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the systematization and analysis of current information on the activities of the bodies of the Union State and the projection of its impact on the tourism and recreational sphere of the Russian-Belarusian border area. The author used general scientific, statistical, cartographic methods, analyzed the normative documents of the Union State, statistical data and scientific literature on the topic. In addition, a content analysis of the indicators of collective accommodation facilities in the study area was carried out, which made it possible to identify the most promising tourist centers, as well as the problems of creating a unified classification of hotels in the Union State. The practical significance of the research results lies in the use of the proposed cross-border routes, built taking into account transport, infrastructure and resource aspects. The article also analyzes the main problems hindering the economic and political integration of the two countries, as well as the development of interregional interaction in the field of tourism.

Study of traffic safety on the street and road network of Ternopil

The road safety issues in the city of Ternopil are studied in this article. The found actual deficiencies were structured according to the main indicators. Based on the analysis of the movement of traffic flows in the morning period, the most problematic sections of the SRN (street and road network) were identified. In general, the speed of traffic flows along the SRN in the evening peak period was found significantly lower than in the morning peak period. To analyze road traffic safety in the city of Ternopil, a cartographic method was applied. Based the obtained results, the road accidents in Ternopil mostly occur along main streets without clearly defined places of concentration. In this regard, a conditional indicator of the danger of transport corridors of Ternopil was derived, which allows analyzing the predominant location (clustering) of road accidents with victims in each district of the city. The current policy and practices of Ternopil in the field of road safety management need improvement. However, the volume of performed measures does not fully cover the need in traffic safety insurance and information provision of traffic participants. In general, it can be stated that proactive actions in the field of ensuring traffic safety are just starting in Ternopil (“starting city”). Thus, it differs favorably from the vast majority of other regional centers, in which the problem of traffic safety has not been even discussed so far. In addition, the plan for sustainable urban mobility is under consideration in the Ternopil City Territorial Community.

Evolution of Composition of the Gostilitsy Palace and Park Ensemble

The Gostilitsy Palace and Park Ensemble is in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list. Now in 2021 the palace-park complex is ruined and may be included in List of World Heritage Sites in Danger. This paper built on earlier analyses and presented new research results. Historiographical data about transfer the estate from Razumovsky brothers to other owners Potemkin and also fact of ownership of the estate by merchant Akimov in 1875 were rediscovered. For the first time graphic data is published — piece of the park layout near Lower Pond. Iconographic data are also published, it is watercolor depicting an open wooden gallery, which made it possible a number of findings about the planning structure the estate holding period of the Kirill Razumovsky, and two watercolors with views of the park. The resulting data and using the cartographic method there has been four development periods and Basic Plans were made. Elizabethan Baroque, Classicism and Romantic Gothic — style of the ensemble changed with the building of each new palace. During the ownership of the Gostilitsy by the Siemens family in the late 19th — early 20th centuries, the park was in its prime. Locations of viewpoints in today’s park were identified using watercolors of the 1850s by the artist Vasily Sadovnikov and photographs of the beginning of the 20th century, and the park pictures were recreated using 3D model. Graphic reconstruction of the park mid-19th — early 20th centuries is product of the work. The graphic reconstruction was analyzed in the context of the theory of A. T. Bolotov, and compared with the Palace and Park Ensemble of Bogoroditsk. As a result of art analysis, similar principles of space organization of both parks were noted, and a compositional structure was revealed, which was a landscape network of scenes and transit spaces.

Механізм формування воєнного туризму в Україні

Background. Military tourism in Ukraine is a relatively new direction that emerged after the beginning of the Russian-Ukrainian war in 2014. According to experts' estimates, around 100,000 tourists interested in the war visited Ukraine in 2023. This figure is 30 % higher than in 2022. International support for Ukraine contributes to increasing awareness of our country and its history. Respect for memory and dignity is a fundamental principle in the ethics of research and interaction with the historical and sensitive topic of military tourism. Methods. General scientific and specialized research methods were employed, including analysis and synthesis, logical structuring, in formulating the theoretical and methodological foundations of the study – the essence of military tourism, aspects of studying military tourism. Expeditionary and remote methods were utilized in gathering initial information – surveying the territories of cities such as Irpin, Hostomel, and Bucha. Geospatial analysis methods were employed in processing the initial information and subsequent analysis – exploring the possibilities of creating thematic routes, which would allow for structuring visits and promoting historical and heritage sites. Geospatial modeling and cartographic methods were employed in analyzing the impact of military aggression on Ukraine on international tourism and in presenting the research results. Results. Military tourism was considered by us as a type of tourism in which tourists visit places and objects associated with armed conflicts, military history, and military events. This type of tourism can encompass various aspects, from visiting military museums and monuments to specialized tours where tourists can participate in military action simulations, visit military sites, and locations of combat. A proposed model for forming the typological structure of military tourism. Conclusions. Tourism based on history and cultural heritage can be more authentic and appealing to tourists. In the academic context, there is emerging research aimed at monitoring, evaluating, and optimizing military tourism routes. One aspect that has contributed to the success of military routes is the coordination of efforts to build a shared identity. It has been found that military tourism can contribute to raising awareness of war, promoting tolerance and understanding among people of different cultures, and fostering the development of Ukraine's economy, including international support for military tourism in Ukraine.

СУЧАСНИЙ ТА ДАВНІЙ РЕЛЬЄФ ГЕОАРХЕОЛОГІЧНОЇ ПАМ'ЯТКИ МЕЖИРІЧ

Background. Comprehensive geoarchaeological studies of prehistoric and historic human settlements involve analyzing all components of the ancient natural environment, including topography and landforming processes. However, insufficient attention to documenting these crucial characteristics, as well as arbitrary use of geomorphological terms, complicates their further interpretation. The research aims to revise existing geomorphological descriptions and paleogeomorphological reconstructions of the Mezhyrich geoarchaeological site, refining and detailing its position within the modern and ancient land surface structure. Methods. The research was conducted using cartographic methods and decoding materials from aerial photography. Additionally, a thorough bibliographic analysis of scientific publications related to paleogeographical reconstructions of the study area was carried out. Results. Discrepancies have been identified in precisely determining the geomorphological context of this site. The study delves into contentious issues surrounding various approaches to numbering the floodplain terraces. These debates stem from the use of different stratigraphic schemes for Ukraine's Quaternary deposits when dating alluvium. Additionally, the debate extends to criteria for terrace numbering. Through the analysis of satellite imagery, hypsometric and geomorphological diagrams, and other geological-geomorphological materials, the contemporary geomorphological situation has been refined, and the peculiarities of the ancient terrain have been unearthed. The role of morphostructural position, the spectrum of processes, and the dynamics of morpholithogenesis have been pinpointed. Conclusions. The conducted research substantiates the pivotal role of terrain in the selection and organization of safe living spaces for ancient humans. To address the issue of linking the Mezhyrich geoarchaeological site to the terrace level, the proposal is to number the terraces based on morphological features, thereby avoiding divergent interpretations of the ages of correlated deposits and discrepancies in terrace designations. Furthermore, there is potential for utilizing the geomorphological information from the investigated Late Paleolithic settlement as a search criterion for locating other ancient human settlements under similar physiogeographic and geological-structural conditions.

Направления цифровой трансформации социосервисного пространства северного региона

Considering inadequate social infrastructure, poor transport connectivity, migration outflow and deformation of the settlement system in northern regions, social services become less available. After searching for ways to change the situation, we hypothesised that digital transformation of healthcare and education plays an important role in improving the production and transfer of social services to consumers and adjusting the social service space of the Komi Republic. The region’s social development space is a stratified object consisting of different layers, such as settlement, social service (healthcare, general education) and infrastructure (transport and ICT). The weak consistency of spatial structures at different layers is considered in the context of the communication connectivity concept. The study aims to understand the potential of digital transformation of healthcare and education to increase the availability of social services. To this end, industry digitalisation indices were identified, the methodology of their digital maturity was tested. The cartographic method was used to present the spatial structure of the ICT layer showing the digital inequality of the population. A problem analysis of the location of healthcare, education and communication facilities in 687 settlements and synthesis of quantitative estimates of the social service and ICT layers revealed their inconsistency. A comprehensive assessment of services identified 234 critical settlements without primary and secondary schools and partially without accessible healthcare facilities. Only half of them have the ICT infrastructure required for digital transformation. The similarity transformation method of structures in a multi-layered space determined the points and formats of communication for compensating digitalisation. It will provide remote communication of people with medical organisations, educational services and create the technological basis for implementing strategic digital transformation projects, which will be examined in further studies.

DEVELOPMENT OF ECO-SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE THROUGH A SPATIO-TEMPORAL GIS ANALYSIS OF AGRICULTURAL CROPS. CASE STUDY: SOUTH-WEST OLTENIA REGION

This research paper investigates the state of agricultural crops in the Oltenia Region.We analyzed the main major agricultural crops (wheat, corn, sunflower and rapeseed) for the period 1990-2018, in Oltenia.The study aims to answer the following research questions, such as: What are the counties with the largest agricultural cultivated area?, Can the cartographic method be useful in the comparative analysis of the areas of agricultural crops in Oltenia?, and What factors negatively affect the development of sustainable (ecological) agriculture?.Using several research methods, such as document analysis, synthesis, comparison, statistical methods and referring to the available studies and statistical data series on the agriculture in Oltenia, this research paper highlights the position of the South-West Oltenia Region in terms of spatial-temporal dynamics and at the same time, the level of development of agricultural crops.