Regional Planning Research Articles

Comparative Study of Low Flow Frequency Analysis Using Bivariate Copula Model at Soyanggang Dam and Chungju Dam

A univariate analysis that relies solely on precipitation data in low flow frequency analysis is a technique to express meteorological drought, so it is limited to analyzing the characteristics of hydrological drought related to available water resources. In addition, if the data for the model calibration are insufficient, the uncertainty of a single variable limits the construction of a reliable model. To improve this problem, a frequency analysis was performed by constructing a bivariate copula model as a multivariate model with a high correlation between variables targeting reservoir inflows. The methodology utilizes the theory of runs to identify low flow events, establishing a threshold based on the mandatory regional water supply plan, and determining the low flow duration and cumulative water deficit. The Gumbel copula function, effective in capturing correlations between hydrological variables, was applied to derive a joint bivariate probability distribution, facilitating the calculation of combined low flow event return periods. This study compared low flow frequencies at Soyanggang dam (’74–’22) and Chungju dam (’86–‘22), which are in the same Han River basin but have different capacities and water demands, using a bivariate copula model. The top four extreme low flow events for the two adjacent dam basins did not occur in the same year and, in the years of the extreme low flow events at one of the two dam basins, there was an insignificant magnitude at the remaining dam basin. This result is noteworthy because it shows that the possibility of extreme low flow events appearing simultaneously in both watersheds is not as high as expected. The operational efficiency can be improved by setting the coordinated operation rules of the two reservoirs using the copula dependency structure.

Landslide susceptibility mapping of a hilly region through a semi-quantitative technique

ABSTRACT Characterization of landslide susceptibility carries great importance in hilly regions as it is one of the frequently occurring natural hazards which comes with huge destruction of life as well as property. Identification of such landslide susceptible zones is usually decided based on the necessity and available resources. It is considered a valuable input for planning developmental activities by policymakers. The current study focuses on Pabbar Catchment, located in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India and prepares a Landslide Susceptibility Map (LSM) at a catchment scale using Analytical Hierarchy Approach (AHP). Eleven geo-morphological attributes of the catchment called causative factors were used in thematic form while creating the LSM. Being a semi-quantitative method, AHP performed satisfactorily to produce a realistic distribution of landslide susceptibility with a prediction accuracy of 0.768 under the Area Under Curve (AUC) technique. Approximately 72% of the geographical area from the catchment falls under the ‘high’ landslide susceptible zone. Unavailability of LSM at this scale is addressed through this study that may be useful to regional planners for future land use planning.

ALGORITHMIC GOVERNANCE IN THE REAL ESTATE AND TDR EXCHANGE OF INDIA: A STATISTICAL FRAMEWORK FOR REGULATING URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

This paper presents a mathematical framework for algorithmic governance within the context of the Real Estate and Transferable Development Rights (TDR) Exchange of India, addressing the challenges of urban infrastructure development. The model incorporates key components such as dynamic pricing, compliance enforcement, and optimal resource allocation, which are designed to regulate TDR transactions efficiently, transparently, and sustainably. By developing a dynamic pricing mechanism that adapts to market demand, supply, compliance with regulations, and environmental sustainability factors, this framework ensures that TDRs are allocated to areas with the highest redevelopment potential.The framework integrates regulatory enforcement mechanisms that monitor adherence to urban planning regulations and impose dynamic penalties on non-compliance. The pricing model adjusts based on the demand-supply gap and local environmental constraints, encouraging sustainable urban growth. The paper also explores a multi-objective optimization approach to TDR allocation, ensuring that redevelopment potential is maximized while maintaining environmental thresholds. The proposed algorithmic model provides a scalable solution to urban infrastructure challenges, promoting balanced growth and sustainable resource utilization in Indian cities.

Wind Speed Prediction in Jerusalem Using Machine Learning Algorithms: A Case Study of Using ANFIS and KNNR

Wind energy is acknowledged for its status as a renewable energy source that offers several advantages, including its low cost of electricity generation, abundant availability, high efficiency, and minimal environmental impact. The prediction of wind speed using machine learning algorithms is crucial for various applications, such as wind energy planning and urban development. This paper presents a case study on wind speed prediction in Palestine Jerusalem city using the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) and K-Nearest Neighbors Regression (KNNR) algorithms. The study evaluates their performance using multiple metrics, including root mean square (RMSE), bias, and coefficient of determination R<sup>2</sup>. ANFIS demonstrates good accuracy with lower RMSE (0.196) and minimal bias (0.0003). However, there is room for improvement in capturing overall variability (R<sup>2</sup> = 0.15). In contrast, KNNR exhibits a higher R<sup>2</sup> (0.4093), indicating a better fit, but with a higher RMSE (1.4209). These results demonstrated the potential of machine learning algorithms in wind speed prediction, which can lead to optimize the wind energy generation at specific site, and reducing the cost of energy production. This study provides insights into the applicability of ANFIS and KNNR in wind speed prediction for Jerusalem and suggests future research directions. The outcomes have practical implications for wind energy planning, urban development, and environmental assessments in similar regions.

Dialogue of knowledge in traditional herbal medicine in Mé'pháá and Tu'un savi indigenous peoples in the mountain of Guerrero Mexico

In the indigenous peoples Tu'un savi and Mé'pháá of the mountain region of Guerrero, allopathic medicine and traditional herbal medicine are used, due to this, we consider that dialogues of knowledge should be established between the practitioners of both medicines. We collaborated with 46 individuals to discuss the forms of using medicinal species, preparing treatments, and using allopathic medicine. Through semi-structured and in-depth interviews, 121 plant species were recorded, with which more than 40 diseases are treated, which are distributed in the digestive, muscular, respiratory, and urinary systems:chronic-degenerative and cultural diseases. The dialogue of knowledge between specialists in traditional medicine and allopathic doctors could contribute to the development of their own health project, with which a regional ethnodevelopment plan could be created.

Spatio-temporal dynamic analysis of greenness base on NDVI equation for change detection from 2004 to 2024 at River Nile State, Atbara City, Sudan by using remote sensing and geographical information system

Urban regions' ability to maintain high environmental standards is largely dependent on their vegetation. A decrease in the amount of vegetated area on land has resulted from city expansion and population growth. An examination of land cover change in urban settings is necessary, particularly for urban regional planning that takes green, open space into account. The purpose of this study was to examine changes in urban vegetation cover in two Medan sub-districts from 2004 to 2014. Change analysis and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) were performed in the study. The range of plant diversity in these locations was Observed. The results showed changes in vegetation cover areas in the mentioned years. In 2004, most of the areas were under a highly dense vegetation class while in 2014, they were under a low-density vegetation class with new sub-class. This indicates a decrease in vegetation cover due to changes to non-vegetation cover or land cover areas with less vegetation.

Practicing Multilevel Governance: The Revision of the Piedmont Regional Territorial Plan

The regional level plays a relevant role in spatial governance and planning in Europe, as it constitutes the most suitable scale to both program European Union funding and territorialize international development strategies. In this light, regional spatial planning instruments play a crucial role in translating general objectives and recommendations (e.g., those included in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development) in place-based implementation practices. This contribution reflects upon the implementation of a methodology aimed at engaging a multidisciplinary team of students in the revision of the Piedmont regional territorial plan (PTR), developed in close cooperation with the regional public administration. This problem-based learning activity supported the integration of supranational strategic objectives and funding streams with the regional territorial development priorities. In so doing, it represents a possible way to practice multilevel governance in concrete terms, employing the PTR as a meaningful catalyst.

Cost of controlling the dengue vector Aedes aegypti in the Peruvian amazon.

Motivation for the study. Dengue prevention and control is based on the control of its vector. This study was conducted because of the need to know the costs associated with Aedes aegypti control in a region that carries out planned vector control activities. Main findings. The costs incurred in dengue vector control in the Loreto region in 2017 and 2018 amounted to PEN 4,066,380.25 and PEN 3,807,858.73, respectively. Implications. Knowing the cost of vector control activities will allow us to better plan these activities and have a basis for cost-effectiveness studies with other methods of prevention and control of dengue. To estimate the costs incurred in the control of Aedes aegypti in the Loreto region, during the years 2017 and 2018. We conducted a partial retrospective economic evaluation of the costs of Aedes aegypti control of the Regional Health Directorate Loreto, during the implementation of the Regional Plan for Surveillance and Control of Aedes aegypti. Documentation such as plans, intervention reports and payment slips were reviewed, and interviews were conducted with professional personnel involved in vector control, on the costs of control interventions. We found that the costs incurred in dengue vector control in the Loreto Region in the two years were: PEN 3,807,858 and PEN 4,066,380 during 2017 and 2018, respectively (USD 1,175,264 and USD 1,1210,232 at the 2017 and 2018 exchange rate). However, the effect of control activities is short-lived. The high cost involved in vector control with the methods currently used and the short duration of its effect make it unsustainable. Studies should be conducted in order to find other more efficient methods for dengue control.

Finding harmony in the sea: Resolving conflicts by regional marine spatial planning

Ocean space is of paramount importance to coastal regions worldwide. However, rapid coastal development has led to competition in marine spatial allocation, exacerbating conflicts within maritime domains. Despite significant progress in establishing regulations for coastal governance in Taiwan, conflicts across diverse maritime industries due to a lack of marine spatial planning (MSP) institutions remain a persistent challenge. Potential conflict areas were identified via geographic information system (GIS) maps to assist maritime governance and used in several rounds of coordination meetings with stakeholders for zoning. A regional MSP framework for improving maritime governance is proposed based on a case study, which shows that even without legal MSP institutions, local or certain central government departments can act as the key authorities for implementing the bottom-up planning concept with strong engagement from local communities. The proposed planning process includes: (1) establishing and employing a monitoring system to promptly identify marine activities that can facilitate efficient enforcement; (2) continuous communication with stakeholders led by the local government to improve amendment regulations and aid compliance; and (3) prioritizing the preservation of traditional use rights with community self-management to accelerate regional MSP processes.

CLUSTERING ANALYSIS FOR GROUPING SUB-DISTRICTS IN BOJONEGORO DISTRICT WITH THE K-MEANS METHOD WITH A VARIETY OF APPROACHES

Population data is an important piece of information that is useful for regional planning and development. Insight into the state of an area is more straightforward to observe if there are grouped sub-districts. In this case, data mining techniques can identify patterns and relationships in population data. The K-Means algorithm is a clustering technique that divides data into groups or clusters based on similar characteristics. This research aims to apply the K-Means method with various approaches to clustering sub-districts in the Bojonegoro district according to population data. The research method used is a quantitative method with an exploratory study in the application of the K-Means method with a variety of approaches, namely the use of the Kernel K-Means method by utilizing the mapping function to map data to a higher dimension before the clustering process. In addition, the Fast K-Means method is used, which reduces the model training time to improve the cluster-centered recalibration problem as the amount of data increases. The data source used in this research is secondary population data in the form of birth, death, migrant, and moving variables obtained from the Satu Data Bojonegoro website developed by the Bojonegoro Regency Government. It is found that the best K-Means approach is the Kernel K-Means method with a number of clusters of 5. The performance of the cluster method is evaluated by measuring the average distance within the cluster. The data coordinate pattern in the Kernel K-means method clustering shows a smooth initial trend when the value of the number of clusters is 5 so that the clusters formed are obtained clearly. The conclusion from this study's results is that the K-Means method's best approach in grouping sub-districts in Bojonegoro district is the Kernel K-Means approach.

PENERAPAN PRINSIP UTAMA GOOD GOVERNANCE PADA LAPORAN KINERJA INSTANSI PEMERINTAH DI BAPPEDA KABUPATEN SIDOARJO

Accountability for bureaucratic performance is a desired condition in state administration in accordance with Presidential Decree no. 81 of 2010. Bappeda Sidoarjo Regency as a regional government agency has an obligation to realize accountability for bureaucratic performance. Apart from that, accountability for bureaucratic performance in the Sidoarjo Regency Bappeda also encourages the realization of good governance in accordance with the main principles of good governance. One form of realizing the main principles of good governance in the Sidoarjo Regency Bappeda is the annual Government Agency Performance Report (LKjIP). The aim of this research is to find out how the main principles of good governance are implemented in the performance report of the Sidoarjo Regency Bappeda. The descriptive qualitative research method is the research method used in this research with research results through analysis of LKjIP documents, interviews and observations of employees who have authority in that section. The research results show that the Sidoarjo Regency Bappeda has implemented the main principles of good governance in administering regional government affairs. The four main principles of good governance that exist really support the Sidoarjo Regency Bappeda, especially in transparency to the public. However, there are still several main principles of good governance that need to be further optimized to increase the level of public trust in the Sidoarjo Regency Bappeda as a regional government agency that carries out regional government affairs, especially in regional planning and development. Keywords: Good Governance; LKjIP; Bureaucracy Performance

Novel systematic processing of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging identifies target regions associated with infarct-related ventricular tachycardia

Abstract Introduction In the clinic, complete characterization of reentrant ventricular tachycardia (VT) circuits using classical electrophysiological criteria and state-of-the-art high density mapping during VT is complex, and often cannot be completed because of hemodynamic instability. This common limitation has motivated the implementation of mapping strategies during sinus rhythm or ventricular pacing aiming to identify scar regions associated with VT isthmuses or potential arrhythmogenicity. Complementary imaging-based strategies including advanced analyses of scar tissue characteristics have been also proposed for procedure planning and identification of potential arrhythmogenic regions. However, the most recent expert consensus report on catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmia highlights the lack of agreement on the preferable signal intensity (SI) cut-off values for assessment of tissue heterogeneity and scar areas on late gadolinium enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance (LGE-CMR) images. The latter makes LGE-CMR imaging processing highly operator-dependent and potentially sensitive to selection bias. Purpose We aimed at developing and validating a systematic processing approach on LGE-CMR images to identify potential VT corridors that may include protected isthmuses associated with VT maintenance. Methods Translational study including 18 pigs with established myocardial infarction and inducible VT undergoing in vivo characterization of the anatomical and functional myocardial substrate associated with VT maintenance. Clinical validation was conducted in a multicenter series of 33 patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy undergoing VT ablation. Three-dimensional CMR-LGE images were processed using systematic scanning of 15 signal intensity cut-off ranges to obtain surface visualization of all potential VT corridors. Analysis and comparisons of imaging and electrophysiological data were performed in individuals with full electrophysiological characterization of the isthmus sites of at least one VT morphology. Results In both the experimental pig model and patients undergoing VT ablation, all the electrophysiologically-defined isthmus sites (n=11 and n=19, respectively) showed overlapping regions with CMR-based potential VT corridors. Such imaging-based VT corridors were less specific than electrophysiologically-guided ablation lesions at functionally relevant isthmus sites (Figure). However, in patients, decreasing from 15 to 7 the number of signal intensity cut-off ranges for systematic imaging processing significantly reduced the area of imaging-based potential VT corridors, without diminishing the capability to detect functionally relevant VT isthmus sites. Conclusions Systematic processing of 3D LGE-CMR images provides unbiased identification of imaging based potential VT corridors that contain functionally relevant protected isthmus sites.

Development of an Italian National Epidemiological Register on Endometriosis Based on Administrative Data.

Background/Objectives: Endometriosis is a female chronic inflammatory disease in which endometrial tissue develops outside the uterine cavity. It is a complex pathology, which significantly contributes to morbidity in premenopausal women, leading to chronic pain, infertility, and subfertility negatively impacting physical and emotional well-being and the overall quality of life. The public health burden of endometriosis remains elusive and challenging to determine, and this uncertainty can lead to inadequate healthcare services and treatments. The objective was to estimate the incidence and prevalence of endometriosis in Italy using the hospital discharge records database via a population-based retrospective study, nationwide between 2011 and 2020. Methods: From the National Hospital Discharge Database, we selected all admissions with a diagnosis of endometriosis (ICD-9-CM, codes 617.x), supported by the presence of a procedure code of laparoscopy or any other surgical procedure allowing for direct visualisation of the lesions. The main outcomes measured: incidence and prevalence of endometriosis were estimated for the entire 2011-2020 period and by individual year, analysing the time trend and variability in different geographical areas of Italy. Results: There were a total of 134,667,646 women aged 15-50 years with one or more hospitalisations for endometriosis in all Italian hospitals. The incidence of endometriosis in Italy during this period was 0.839 per 1000 women (CI95% 0.834-0.844), exhibiting a statistically significant decreasing trend over the years. A discernible north-south gradient was observed, with higher rates documented in the northern regions. The prevalence rate stood at 14.0 per 1000 during the same period, and a similar north-south geographical gradient was identifiable in the prevalence rates as well. Conclusions: The utilization of national-level hospital data enables the generation of incidence and prevalence data for endometriosis without variations in methods and definitions, facilitating the evaluation of temporal trends and regional comparisons. Understanding and quantifying this phenomenon is essential for appropriate healthcare planning in various Italian regions.

Is Bias Correction in Dynamical Downscaling Defensible?

AbstractLocalized projections of 21st‐century hydroclimate variables obtained from downscaling Global Climate Model (GCM) output are central to informing regional impact assessments and infrastructure planning. Regional GCM biases can be significant and, for dynamical downscaling, can be addressed either before (a priori) or after (a posteriori) downscaling. However, a priori bias correction (APBC) has generally unexplored effects on climate change signals. Here we analyze dynamically downscaled solutions of CMIP6 GCMs over the Western U.S., with and without APBC, and quantify APBC's impact on climate change signals relative to other irreducible uncertainty sources. For temperature and precipitation, the uncertainty introduced by APBC is negligible compared to that arising from GCM choice or internal variability. Furthermore, APBC greatly reduces regional models' unrealistically high snow‐water‐equivalent (SWE) biases that result directly from GCM errors. We leverage this finding to encourage the dynamical downscaling community to adopt APBC as a standard operating procedure.

PERAN PEMERINTAH DAERAH DALAM PEMBANGUNAN INFRASTRUKTUR JALAN DI KOTA BATAM

As a government that has a very strategic authority and position related to its obligations as a "public service" to improve the welfare, prosperity, security and peace of society, regional governments have a very important role in regional development planning. Regional governments in this case must carry out their main tasks which of course must be adjusted to the vision, mission, goals and objectives that will be achieved later. Development is a complex process that requires significant changes in social structures, cultural values, and institutional frameworks to promote faster economic growth, reduce income disparities, and eradicate poverty. Apart from roads, trucks, cable cars and trains, roads are all road elements protected by land transportation infrastructure, including supporting buildings and traffic instruments that are above ground and above water. This scientific work was written using descriptive techniques. This approach can be described as a critical thinking methodology that involves reading articles or other items. In accordance with Law Number 23 of 2014, autonomous regional governments led by regional heads are organized by regional governments. One of the cities or districts in the Riau Islands Province that is still developing is Batam City. Regional governments are still concerned and monitoring infrastructure development. During the Covid-19 epidemic, environmental and meteorological conditions, obstacles and the process of road infrastructure development also occurred. However, considering the existing challenges and setbacks, this can be used as a basis for review and improvement in preparing for the next phase of regional government growth. Therefore, these difficulties do not become a challenge for local governments during the development process; instead, it can be taken into account later. Keywords: Local Government; Development; Infrastructure

IMPLEMENTASI SISTEM INFORMASI PEMERINTAH DAERAH (SIPD) DALAM MEMFASILITASI KERUMAHTANGGAAN BIRO UMUM SEKRETARIAT DAERAH PROVINSI JAWA TIMUR

The Regional Government Information System (SIPD) is an e-government system with a program or network that is used to harmonize coordination between the central government and regional governments. The Regional Government Information System (SIPD) has been regulated in Minister of Home Affairs Regulation Number 70 of 2019 where the system is designed to be more responsive, adaptive, innovative, dynamic and accountable. SIPD was designed by the Ministry of Home Affairs to harmonize the flow of stages in structuring regional plan documents based on statutory regulations. The aim of this research is to determine the implementation of SIPD in facilitating housekeeping at the General Bureau of the Regional Secretariat of East Java Province. The research method used is a qualitative descriptive approach. Data collection techniques were carried out through observation, interviews, literature study and documentation. The findings in this research use the concept of policy implementation according to Edwards III by reviewing several aspects such as communication, resources, disposition and bureaucratic structure. In general, the implementation of SIPD has gone quite well and effectively. However, there are still several obstacles in its implementation which have not been carried out optimally. Some of these obstacles are a lack of time efficiency in carrying out tasks and a lack of information in solving problems due to a lack of socialization and information related to SIPD. Therefore, there needs to be clarity regarding support and coordination with other agencies so that the implementation process runs well. This is related to increasing the quantity of human resources to support effectiveness and time efficiency in completing tasks. Keywords: General Bureau; Implementation; SIPD

BUREAUCRATIC REFORM THROUGH ORGANIZATIONAL RIGHTSIZING

The essence of bureaucratic reform is the demand for very fundamental changes to the government bureaucratic structure which has so far been seen as having many internal problems within it. Bureaucratic reform aims to build organizations that are agile and oriented towards public services with a focus on improving bureaucratic institutions. Bureaucratic reform by all regional apparatus including the Regional Planning, Research and Development Agency (BAPPELITBANGDA) of Pasuruan Regency indicates that regional apparatus are obliged to prepare organizational institutions appropriately, both in terms of size, main tasks, and functions and also appropriate for use. One of the Pasuruan Regency government's efforts in institutional reform is to change the nomenclature of Regency Regional Apparatus from BAPPELITBANGDA to Regional Research and Innovation Agency (BAPPERIDA). The type of research used by researchers is descriptive research with a qualitative approach. The data sources used are secondary data and the data analysis techniques used are interactive analysis techniques. The research results show that BAPPELITBANGDA Pasuruan Regency has combined elements of planning, research, and development by following the latest nomenclature. This change impacts the main tasks and functions of BAPPELITBANGDA which does not focus on development planning alone. Still, research and development is one of its main tasks and functions, even though research and development is not yet running optimally. With changes in size and function in the context of rightsizing, it can provide a more appropriate bureaucratic structure, so that the Rightsizing Organization structure can have the right function and size so that it can improve organizational performance. Keywords: Bureaucratic Reform; Rightsizing; Nomenclature Change.

Simulation Study of Localized, Multi-Directional Continuous Dynamic Tailoring for Optical Skyrmions

The topological properties of optical skyrmions have enormous application value in fields such as optical communication and polarization sensing. At present, research on optical skyrmions focuses primarily on the topological principles of skyrmions and their applications. Nonetheless, extant research devoted to skyrmion-array manipulation remains meager. The sole manipulation scheme has a limited effect on the movement direction of the whole skyrmion array. Based on the interference principle of the surface plasmon polariton (SPP) wave, we propose an upgraded scheme for the tailoring of electric-field optical skyrmions. A distributed Gaussian-focused spots array is deployed. Unlike the existing manipulation, we customize the phase of the light source to be more flexible, and we have discovered optical-skyrmion tailoring channels and shaping channels. Specifically, we move the skyrmions within the channel in both directions and manipulate the shape of the topological domain walls to achieve customized transformation. This work will evolve towards a more flexible regulatory plan for tailoring optical-skyrmion arrays, and this is of great significance for research in fields such as optical storage and super-resolution microimaging.

Perceptions of the Addictiveness of Low-Nicotine Cigarettes Versus Typical Cigarettes and Exposure to Tobacco Industry-Sponsored Corrective Campaign

Background In 2017, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a regulatory plan to reduce the nicotine content of cigarettes. This study examines the association of exposure to industry-sponsored corrective statements on perceptions of the addictiveness of low-nicotine cigarettes relative to typical cigarettes within the general US population. Methods The study comprised 4975 US adult respondents of the 2019 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS 5, Cycle 3). Multinomial logistic regression models were used to examine associations between exposure to tobacco industry corrective messages and perceptions of the addictiveness of low-nicotine cigarettes relative to typical cigarettes. Results In the overall population, 4.1% reported that low-nicotine cigarettes were much more addictive than typical cigarettes, 67.5% said they were equally addictive, while 28.4% reported they were slightly/much less addictive. Adults exposed to industry-sponsored corrective messages had higher odds of perceiving low-nicotine cigarettes as equally addictive as typical cigarettes (aOR 1.57; 95% CI, 1.13–2.19) than those who saw no corrective messages. Those exposed to the corrective messages specifically about the addictiveness of smoking and nicotine had higher odds of perceiving low-nicotine cigarettes as equally addictive as typical cigarettes (aOR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.07–2.81) compared to those who saw no corrective message. Conclusions Our findings suggest that exposure to court-ordered tobacco industry corrective statements may have reinforced perceptions on the addictive potential of nicotine. However, study findings indicate a need for campaigns specifically tailored to address misperceptions observed in this study.

Quantifying land impacts of wind energy: a regional-scale assessment in Finland

AbstractLarge-scale deployment of wind energy raises ecological concerns about land use changes. Here, we conducted a quantitative assessment of land impacts of 42 wind farms (513 turbines) from Ostrobothnia, Finland. Located on the Baltic Sea coast, Ostrobothnia is a strategic region for national wind energy targets. Our main objectives were (1) to calculate landscape metrics (e.g., habitat composition, loss and fragmentation) within wind farm project areas, (2) compare the amount of building-related deforestation between project areas and simulation-based control areas and (3) compute the overlap between project areas and regional land use plans. According to CORINE Land Cover datasets, the predominant habitats within project areas were forests (371.7 km2; 81%) and transitional forests (52.7 km2; 11%). The remaining 8% were agricultural areas (17.6 km2; 4%), waters (12.5 km2; 3%) and artificial surfaces (2.9 km2; 1%). Wind farm infrastructure corresponded to 1.4-6.0% of project areas and caused similar degrees of habitat fragmentation. Deforestation levels in project areas were higher (~ 6 times on average) than in control areas, and the micro-siting of turbines did not avoid mature forests by favouring e.g., transitional forests (which are ecologically less valuable). We found some spatial incongruence between project areas and regional land use plans, with 78 turbines falling outside the established boundaries. Our results highlight the need for careful ecological considerations in wind energy spatial planning in Finland (and countries with similar landscapes and land uses) to limit forest loss and its detrimental impacts on forest-dependent species, but also on carbon storage and sequestration.