Shifts In Land Use Research Articles

Sunlight promotes aboveground carbon loss by producing polysaccharides from litter decomposition in a temperate forest

Photodegradation is considered as a universal contributing factor to litter decomposition and carbon (C) cycling within the Earth’s biomes. Identifying how solar radiation modifies the molecular structure of litter is essential to understand the mechanism controlling its decomposition and reaction to shifts in climatic conditions and land-use. In this study, we performed a spectral-attenuation experiment following litter decomposition in an understory and gap of a temperate deciduous forest. We found that short-wavelength visible light, especially blue light, was the main factor driving variation in litter molecular structure of Fagus crenata Blume, Quercus crispula Blume, Acer carpinifolium Siebold & Zuccarini and Betula platyphylla Sukaczev, explaining respectively 56.5%, 19.4%, 66.3%, and 16.7% of variation in its chemical composition. However, the variation also depended on canopy openness: Only in the forest gap was lignin aromatic C negatively associated with C-oxygen (C–O) bonding in polysaccharides receiving treatments containing blue light of the full spectrum of solar radiation. Regardless of species, the decomposition index of litter that explained changes in mass and lignin loss was driven by the relative content of C–O stretching in polysaccharides and lignin aromatic C. The results suggest that the availability of readily degradable polysaccharides produced by the reduction in lignin aromatic C most plausibly explains the rate of litter photodegradation. Photo-products of photodegradation might augment the C pool destabilized by the input of readily degradable organic compounds (i.e., polysaccharides).

Transformations in hydrological resilience: Unraveling the impact of landscape hydric potential on flood dynamics: A case study, Drwinka catchment (Poland).

Flooding remains a critical issue in urban catchments, driven by complex interactions between land use changes, hydrological dynamics, and environmental factors. This study aims to investigate how modifications in Landscape Hydric Potential (LHP) affect flood behavior in the Drwinka River catchment in Krakow, Poland. Given the rapid urbanization and its impacts on hydrological systems, understanding these changes is essential for effective flood management and mitigation. The research involved a comprehensive analysis of land use changes, river network alterations, LHP variations, and net rainfall across several historical periods: 1785, 1864, 1900, 1936, 1965, 1997, and 2023. By examining these periods and considering two observed rainfall events (case 1 and case 2) alongside a design rainfall scenario (case 3), the study revealed significant shifts in land use and catchment physiography. Specifically, the transition from agricultural to urbanized areas, a reduction in catchment size, and a decline in retention capacity were observed throughout the study period. The analysis uncovered a strong correlation between LHP values and net rainfall, with notable impacts on the volume of water discharged into receiving waters. Additionally, changes in flood hydrograph patterns were evident, with increases in LHP values leading to reductions in peak flows and flood volumes. For instance, peak flows and volumes ranged from 35 to 51m3s-1 and 0.335 to 0.462 million m3 for rainfall case 1, from 51 to 65m3s-1 and 0.814 to 0.992 million m3 for rainfall case 2, and from 51 to 76m3s-1 and 0.642 to 0.806 million m3 for rainfall case 3. These findings underscore the potential of LHP as a crucial tool in flood management, offering insights that could enhance catchment management strategies and improve flood hazard mitigation efforts.

Spatio Temporal Analysis of the Effect of Slope Gradient on the Magnitude of Erosion and Deposition in the Endikat Watershed

Erosion is a natural process caused by rainfall (R), slope gradient (λ), slope length (LS), soil type (K), and changes in land cover. These factors drive the erosion of the surface layer of the soil, intensified by steep slopes and shifts in land use. The extent of this erosion has significant implications as it contributes to a reduction in the distribution of ecosystem services (ES) both spatially and temporally in various sub-watershed areas. To analyze the magnitude of erosion, modern methodologies including the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) and the refinement, the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) have been adopted particularly focusing on the slope length (LS) factor for more accurate assessments. From this analysis and the direction of deposition spatially, the results can be used to assess and consider the actual value of ES in watersheds. The results can also be used for policy in decision-making, assessing the quality and quantity of water resources, as well as managing land resources better in an economically, environmentally, and socially beneficial manner. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the classification of the magnitude of slope in the RLKSi equation to predict the estimated spatial pattern of both erosion and deposition as well as assess the level of vulnerability to soil loss in the Endikat sub-watershed which was upstream of the Lematang watershed. The equation used was SEDRET which included the level of soil resistance to the magnitude of soil loss (RUSLE) minus actual erosion (USLE). The results of the highest erosion value of 2,205.14 tons/Ha/year occurred in an area with slope of > 45% and soil type Association & yellow brown podzolic with shrub land use. Although the highest eroded retention rate of - 6,710.17 tons/Ha/year occurred on slope of 39.09% with yellowish brown podzolic soil type and dry agricultural land use. Additionally, the area experiencing the greatest sedimentation occurred on slope of 5.79% with Andosol Brown & Regosol soil types as well as shrub land use.

Insect Decline-Evaluation of Potential Drivers of a Complex Phenomenon.

The decline of insects is a global concern, yet identifying the factors behind it remains challenging due to the complexity of potential drivers and underlying processes, and the lack of quantitative historical data on insect populations. This study assesses 92 potential drivers of insect decline in West Germany, where significant declines have been observed. Using data from federal statistical offices and market surveys, the study traces changes in landscape structure and agricultural practices over 33 years. Over the years, the region underwent major landscape changes, including reduced cropland and grassland and increased urbanization and forest areas. Potential detected drivers of insect decline include: (1) urban expansion, reducing insect habitats as urban areas increased by 25%; (2) intensified grassland management; (3) shifts in arable land use towards bioenergy and feed crop cultivation, particularly corn, driven by dairy farming intensification and renewable energy policies. While the toxic load of pesticide application has decreased, land-use changes, most likely driven by market demands and shifts in national and EU policies, have reduced habitat availability and suitability for insects. This study highlights how these landscape and land management changes over the past 33 years align with the observed decline in insect biomass in the region.

Effects of Environmental Changes on Flood Patterns in the Jing River Basin: A Case Study from the Loess Plateau, China

Human activities and climate change have significantly influenced the water cycle, impacting flood risks and water security. This study centers on the Jing River Basin in the Chinese Loess Plateau, analyzing hydrological patterns and flood progression using the HEC-HMS model under changing conditions. The findings indicate that climate change substantially affects flood predictions, increasing peak flows and volumes by up to 10.9% and 11.1%, respectively. It is essential to recognize that traditional flood models may underestimate the risks posed by these changes, emphasizing the necessity for updated methods incorporating climatic and human factors. Changes in land use, such as the expansion of grasslands and forests, have reduced peak discharges and flood volumes. Consequently, the combined impacts of climate and land use changes have intensified flood frequencies, necessitating updated strategies to manage risks effectively. The dynamics of flooding are significantly impacted by changes in climate and land use, particularly in minor floods that occur frequently, highlighting the influence of climate change on flooding trends. Within the Jing River Basin, hydrological patterns have been shaped by both climatic variations and human activities, leading to an increase in extreme hydrological events and concerns regarding water security. Using the HEC-HMS model, this study examines the hydrology of the Jing River Basin, focusing on the design of storm events and analyzing various flood characteristics under different scenarios. Climate change has resulted in higher peak discharges and volume surges ranging from 6.3% to 10.9%, while shifts in land use, such as decreases in farmland and the expansion of grasslands, have caused declines ranging from 7.2% to 4.7% in peak flows and volumes. The combined effects of climate variation and land utilization have complex implications for flood patterns, with milder to moderate floods showing a more significant impact and shorter return periods facing increased consequences. These findings underscore the interconnected nature of climate change, land use, and flooding dynamics in the Jing River Basin, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies to address these challenges and ensure sustainable water management in the region.

Study on the Impact of Spatiotemporal Changes in the Ecological Environment on Grain Crops in the Subtropical Monsoon Climate Zone

Global warming and land-use type shifting lead to the degradation of natural habitats. The research on the ecological and environmental impact of the subtropical monsoon climate zone on food crop cultivation is not systematic enough. An Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs (InVEST)–Patch-generating Land Use Simulation (PLUS)–Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) model was created to provide a comprehensive assessment of the spatiotemporal variations for food crop habitat quality (HQ) in China’s subtropical monsoon climate zone from 2010 to 2030. The HQ degradation trend was obvious during 2010–2030 under the influence of land-use change. The expansion of lower habitat areas was larger than that of medium and higher habitat areas. The shared socio-economic pathways SSP-CP and SSP-EP increased the mean total area of suitable areas compared with the SSP-ND scenario for food crops by 9% and 17.8%, respectively. Land-use shifts increased the suitable range of food crops and mitigated the negative impacts of urban expansion on food growth. This research has theoretical guidance for land-use planning for food crop production in subtropical monsoon climate zones.

Social transformation and studentification: a portrait of gentrification in jatinangor education area

The presence of a large university and an increase in the number of students have driven significant changes, including shifts in land use, increases in property prices, and changes in patterns of social interaction between students and local residents. This research aims to examine the social, economic, and cultural impacts of studentification and gentrification in the Jatinangor education area. Using a qualitative approach through in-depth interviews, field observations, and secondary data analysis, this research explores how these transformations affect Jatinangor's community character and cultural identity. The results show that studentification in Jatinangor not only brings new economic opportunities, but also triggers social challenges for the indigenous population, especially related to economic pressures and cultural changes. This study makes an important contribution to the understanding of the dynamics of gentrification in educational areas and provides policy recommendations to support the balance between educational development and socio-cultural sustainability for local communities.

Landscape Histories and the Search for Early Settlements along Louisiana's Bayous

Abstract Historical changes from shifting land use, the natural meandering of waterways, and the aftereffects of erosion complicate modern environments and obfuscate precontact landscapes. Although archaeologists can create stratified sampling models or employ systematic surveys, traditional field methodologies are often not suitable for site discovery, thereby limiting knowledge of ancient cultural landscapes. Many water systems in southern Louisiana, and in many parts of the world, have been covered or concealed in backswamps by natural geomorphological processes, development, or environmental degradation. Investigation standards that do not account for these changes will not be effective at identifying archaeological sites in such transformed landscapes. Discoveries made during ongoing archaeological research in Iberville Parish, Louisiana, provide examples of what can be missed and offer solutions through changes in archaeological field methods. This article advocates for a mixed-methodology approach, drawing from historical research and shallow geophysics to look at landforms and landscape changes. Strictly following state survey guidelines can muddle the archaeological record, particularly in places subject to significant landscape change from historical land-use alteration. By applying these approaches, we offer a way to reconstruct ancient landscapes and landforms that are culturally significant but often missed given the nature of modern environmental conditions.

Prediction and Evaluation of Industrial Land Intensive Use: Adding Policy Impact to System Dynamics Model

Nowadays, urban development prioritizes improving quality over mere quantitative expansion, which requires a shift in land use from previous extensive use patterns to a more refined and efficient intensive use pattern. The intensive use of industrial land (IUIL) is a resource-utilization strategy for industrial land that aims at maximizing the dual growth of ecological and economic benefits by minimizing resource consumption and factor costs. In this research, IUIL is deconstructed into four aspects: input intensity, utilization intensity, economic benefits, and environmental benefits. Grounded in a qualitative analysis of the interconnected casual feedback among the various factors influencing IUIL, a system dynamics model with 36 indicators for IUIL evaluation and prediction is constructed. Policy impacts on IUIL from the supply side, utilization side, and supervision side are analyzed and embedded for a scenario simulation based on the theory of the entire life cycle of land use. The simulation shows its efficiency in reporting the variation tendency of industrial land use with varied policy impact strength. The results reveal a dynamic understanding of the evolving patterns of land intensification and present different characteristics of IUIL. This study further proposes policy recommendations to provide experience and references for the authorities to promote high-quality urbanization development in practice.

Relationship Between Land Use Transformation and Ecosystem Service Value in the Process of Urban–Rural Integration: An Empirical Study of 17 Prefecture-Level Cities in Henan Province, China

Urban–rural integration, which aims to balance economic growth with sustainable land use, is becoming an increasingly critical strategy for regional development. This study provides crucial insights into the relationship between land use changes and ecosystem service values (ESVs) in rapidly urbanizing areas by analyzing the urban–rural integration process in Henan Province, a typical agricultural province in China. This research investigated the relationship between land use transformation and ESVs in Henan Province, China, from 1990 to 2020. Utilizing land use data and employing the equivalent factor method and elasticity model, we analyzed shifts in land use and their impacts on ecosystem services across 17 prefecture-level cities. Results indicated a gradual improvement in the urban–rural integration development index of Henan Province, particularly after 2000, but with notable disparities among cities. Zhengzhou, the provincial capital, consistently demonstrated high urban–rural integration development index (URII) values, influencing the integration efforts of neighboring cities. Conversely, peripheral cities exhibited lower integration indices. Notable shifts in land use patterns characterized by diverse transfer dynamics distinctively influenced ESVs across regions. Urban sprawl initially exerted substantial impacts on ecosystem services and stabilized over time. Suburbanization impacts peaked in the early and middle stages, while agricultural intensification initially affected ecosystem services, but their effects diminished with increased efficiency. Ecological restoration efforts consistently enhanced ESVs. The findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamic interactions between land use transitions and ecosystem services in the context of urban–rural integration.

Land Use and Land Cover Change in East Java Indonesia from 1972 to 2021: Learning from Landsat

This study analyses land use and land cover (LULC) changes during the last five decades (1970–2021) in East Java Province, Indonesia. The changes are analysed by comparing four maps interpreted from Landsat images (MSS 1972, TM 1997, OLI 2013, and OLI 2021). The main research procedures consist of (1) data collection, (2) field survey, (3) image classification, and (4) LULC change interpretation. The classification uses the maximum likelihood algorithm, achieving an overall kappa accuracy of > 75%. The classification produces eight classes, i.e., built-up land (BU), heterogeneous agricultural land (HAL), bare soil (BS), paddy fields (PF), open water (OW), vegetation (VG), shrubland (SH), and wetlands (WL). The analysis shows a significant shift in land use from 1972 to 2021, with HAL declining by 46%, SH by 91%, and BS by 88%. In contrast, PF has increased by 105%, VG (forest and plantation) by 64%, and built-up areas by a remarkable 366%. These changes show a significant shift from dryland agriculture, shrublands, and barren lands to irrigated regions, vegetated areas, and urban growth. Furthermore, there are increases in water bodies due to the construction of several reservoirs to support water availability. In coastal regions, the development of inland aquaculture leads to a proliferation of wetlands (salt evaporation ponds, fish ponds, and rice-fish integrated farming).

Cultural Heritage, Migration, and Land Use Transformation in San José Chiltepec, Oaxaca

Indigenous communities worldwide face increasing challenges from modernization, migration, and economic pressures, which threaten their traditional agricultural systems and cultural heritage. These dynamics often lead to shifts in land use, the erosion of ancestral knowledge, and the weakening of cultural identity. Understanding how these communities adapt to such changes is crucial for sustainable development. This research examines how indigenous communities, particularly San José Chiltepec in Oaxaca, balance the preservation of cultural heritage with adapting to evolving agricultural practices and land use transformations. It emphasizes the critical role of indigenous knowledge in sustainable land management and the importance of cultural identity amidst socio-economic pressures. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating geostatistical data, spatial analysis, and qualitative insights from municipal development plans and community-based observations. This provided a detailed understanding of how local conditions and external forces shape land use and conservation. The findings reveal that, while irrigated agriculture and pasturelands have declined, the community has shown resilience through the preservation of seasonal farming and the expansion of secondary vegetation. San José Chiltepec serves as a model for how indigenous communities can maintain cultural and environmental heritage while adapting to modern economic challenges.

Shallow drainage of agricultural peatlands without land-use change: have your peat and eat it too

IntroductionDrainage for agricultural purposes is one of the main drivers of peatland degradation, leading to significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, biodiversity loss, and soil eutrophication. Rewetting is a potential solution to restore peatlands, but it generally requires a land-use shift to paludiculture or nature areas.MethodsThis study explored whether three different water level management techniques (subsoil irrigation, furrow irrigation, and dynamic ditch water level regulation) could be implemented on dairy grasslands to yield increases in essential ecosystem services (vegetation diversity and soil biogeochemistry) without the need to change the current land use or intensity. We investigated vegetation diversity, soil biogeochemistry, and CO2 emission reduction in fourteen agricultural livestock pastures on drained peat soils in Friesland (Netherlands).ResultsAcross all pastures, Shannon-Wiener diversity was below 1, and the species richness was below 5. The plant-available phosphorus (P) was consistently higher than 3 mmol L−1. None of the water level management (WLM) techniques enhanced vegetation diversity or changed soil biogeochemistry despite a notable increase in water table levels. The potential for CO2 emission reduction remained small or even absent. Indicators of land-use intensity (i.e., grass harvest and fertilization intensity), however, showed a strong negative correlation with vegetation diversity. Furthermore, all sites’ total and plant-available P and nitrate exceeded the upper threshold for species-rich grassland communities.DiscussionIn conclusion, our research suggests that incomplete rewetting (i.e., higher water tables while maintaining drainage) while continuing the current land use does neither effectively mitigate GHG emissions nor benefit vegetation diversity. Therefore, we conclude that combining WLM and reducing land-use intensity is essential to limit the degradation of peat soils and restore more biodiverse vegetation.

GIS-Based Land Use and Land Cover Change Assessment Around Assosa District, Upper Blue Nile Basin, Ethiopia

Land, with its intricate blend of geological, topographical, hydrological, and ecological elements, reflects the interplay of natural processes and human activities. In Ethiopia, traditional agricultural practices often lack systematic planning based on land suitability and physical characteristics, hindering agricultural productivity and economic progress. Understanding shifts in land use and cover is crucial for comprehending broader global transformations. Early studies have unveiled significant alterations in land use and cover between 2009 and 2013. Our investigation extends from 2013 to 2023, employing Landsat 8 imagery at three-year intervals (2013, 2018, and 2023) to analyze five key land cover categories: forests, farmland, built-up areas, barren land, and water bodies. Notably, farmland and built-up areas witnessed substantial expansion over these periods, juxtaposed with a significant decline in forest cover. Forests decreased by 27% from 2013 to 2018, with an additional 7% decrease from 2018 to 2023. Conversely, farmland expanded by 19% from 2013 to 2018 and by 2% from 2018 to 2023, while built-up areas saw respective increases of 4% and 10% over the same periods. These trends underscore potential environmental challenges if unaddressed. Effective land management strategies are crucial to mitigate adverse impacts on ecosystems, agricultural productivity, and overall socio-economic stability. By integrating scientific insights with sustainable practices, we can navigate the intricate dynamics of land use, paving the way for a resilient and prosperous future.

Patterns and drivers in the functional diversity decomposition of invaded stream fish communities

AbstractAimThe assembly of real‐world ecological communities in human‐modified landscapes is influenced by a complex interplay of spatial, temporal, environmental and invasion gradients. However, understanding the relative importance of these drivers and their interactions in shaping functional assembly remains elusive. Our study aimed to investigate the relative influence of these drivers on the functional assembly of a stream fish metacommunity.LocationStreams of the Lake Balaton catchment, Hungary.MethodsWe analysed a long‐term (18‐year) dataset of the stream fish metacommunity, focusing on changes in functional diversity (Q), redundancy (R) and species dominance (D). Ternary diagrams were utilized to decompose functional diversity into Q, R and D components and to visualize diversity patterns. Linear mixed‐effect regression and separate structural equation models were employed to identify significant drivers of Q, R and D.ResultsNative fish communities exhibited low functional diversity (Q) but high redundancy (R) and dominance (D), indicating functional convergence and dominance. Stream habitat size, network position and associated spatial, physical and chemical gradients emerged as consistently significant drivers of D and R. Changes in Q were additionally linked to non‐native community properties and subtle shifts in land use and within‐stream habitat characteristics.Main ConclusionsOur findings suggest that both environmental filtering and interspecies interactions, particularly trait similarity between invaders and natives shape functional assembly of stream fish metacommunities. Despite minimal temporal directional changes, environmental drivers predominantly influence long‐term diversity patterns of native fish communities, overshadowing invasion effects. Our findings underscore the importance of considering both environmental filtering mechanisms and interspecies interactions in understanding functional assembly. Additionally, the joint application of diversity decomposition frameworks with predictive modelling provides comprehensive insight into patterns of functional diversity and assembly across ecological communities.

Strategies for Land Economic Development in South Delhi District

This research paper examines the land economic development strategies in South Delhi, focusing on their impact on the socio-economic and spatial dynamics of the region. South Delhi, a diverse and economically vibrant district within the National Capital Region of India, presents a unique case study to explore how tailored land use policies and economic planning can foster sustainable growth. Using a mixed-method approach, this study integrates qualitative analysis of policy documents, stakeholder interviews, and quantitative assessment of economic indicators to analyze land use changes, economic transformations, and policy effectiveness from 2011 to 2021. The analysis spans both macro and micro levels, investigating transformations in key areas like Mehrauli, Lado Sarai, and Aya Nagar. Findings highlight significant shifts in land use from agricultural to residential and commercial purposes, driven by rapid urbanization, infrastructure development, and policy reforms. While certain strategies have effectively promoted economic growth, challenges such as environmental degradation, congestion, uneven policy enforcement, and socio- economic disparities persist. The study underscores the need for sustainable land use planning, improved infrastructure, stakeholder collaboration, and adaptive governance frameworks to balance economic growth with social equity and environmental sustainability The research offers comprehensive insights and practical recommendations for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders to optimize land economic development strategies in South Delhi, with implications for similar urban contexts globally. The study advocates for a holistic approach that integrates sustainable development, community engagement, and resilient policy frameworks to create livable and prosperous urban environments. Index Terms— Land Economic Development Strategies,South Delhi, Socio-Economic Dynamics ,Spatial Dynamics, Land Use Policies ,Economic Planning ,Sustainable Growth ,Mixed-Method Approach, Policy Documents, Stakeholder Interviews, Economic Indicators, Land Use Changes, Urbanization, Infrastructure Development ,Policy Reforms Environmental Degradation, Socio- Economic Disparities ,Sustainable Land Use Planning, Stakeholder Collaboration, Adaptive Governance, Urban Environments.

Over the river and into the hills: locals and non-locals at Inzersdorf, a late Bronze Age cemetery in the Traisen Valley (Austria)

The Late Bronze Age is characterized by the increasing homogenization of material culture and the prevalence of urn burials. The cemetery of Inzersdorf, located in the Lower Traisen Valley, Austria, is used to investigate whether changes in burial practices during the Late Bronze Age were locally driven or influenced by external factors. This study interprets strontium isotope data from 215 calcined human bone samples in the context of a local baseline established from 163 modern plant samples (55 locations) within a 10 km radius of Inzersdorf. Complementary Correspondence Analysis and 14C dates were used to identify chronological changes. The high-density sampling carried out in the Traisen Valley for bioavailable strontium (BASr) enabled the differentiation of people who mainly sourced their food from the valley or the hills. A diachronic shift in land use was identified, with the main food resource obtained from the hills for the earlier and the valley providing most of the foods for the later phase of the cemetery, which is more distinct in men than in women. Five individuals with isotopic values that differed from the main population were identified, one of which has an 87Sr/86Sr of 0.7061 falling below the BASr baseline created with the modern plant data. While the latter may indicate metal-related travel, the other four individuals may be interpreted as inhabitants of single farmsteads. Additionally, an individual with a significant shift in isotopic values between the petrous bone and long bone was identified, indicating changing local food sources over the individual’s life.

Driving Analysis and Multi Scenario Simulation of Ecosystem Carbon Storage Changes Based on the InVEST-PLUS Coupling Model: A Case Study of Jianli City in the Jianghan Plain of China

The carbon storage capacity of terrestrial ecosystems serves as a crucial metric for assessing ecosystem health and their resilience to climate change. By evaluating the effects of land use alterations on this storage, carbon management strategies can be improved, thereby promoting carbon reduction and sequestration. While county-level cities are pivotal to ecological conservation and high-quality development, they often face developmental challenges. Striking a balance between economic growth and meeting peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality objectives is particularly challenging. Consequently, there is an urgent need to bolster research into carbon storage management. The study focuses on Jianli City, employing the InVEST model and land use data to examine the response patterns of land use changes and terrestrial system carbon storage from 2000 to 2020. Using the PLUS model, the study simulated the land use and carbon storage in Jianli City for the year 2035 under three scenarios: Natural Development scenario, Urban Expansion scenario, and Ecology and food security scenario. Our findings indicate the following: (1) Between 2000 and 2020, significant shifts in land use were observed in Jianli City. These changes predominantly manifested as the interchange between Cropland and Water areas and the enlargement of impervious surfaces, leading to a decrease of 691,790.27 Mg in carbon storage. (2) Under the proposed scenarios—Natural Development scenario, Urban Expansion scenario, and Ecology and food security scenario—the estimated carbon storage capacities in Jianli City were 39.95 Tg, 39.90 Tg, and 40.14 Tg, respectively. When compared with the 2020 data, all these estimates showed an increase. In essence, our study offers insights into optimizing land use structures from a carbon storage standpoint to ensure stability in Jianli’s carbon storage levels while mitigating the risks associated with carbon fixation. This has profound implications for the harmonious evolution of regional eco-economies.

Exploring the role of high-value crops to reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions in New Zealand

This study explores the potential benefits of transitioning from livestock farming to high-value alternative crops as a strategy for mitigating agricultural greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in New Zealand. The government has set ambitious targets for reducing methane (CH4) emissions. However, since animal product exports play a crucial role in New Zealand’s economy, any shift in land use will have significant impacts on both the regional and national economy. We developed a GIS framework that integrated (i) growing requirements, (ii) GHG emissions and (iii) profitability for crops. Analysis of export market opportunities identified twelve high-value “alternative crops”. Availability of suitable land for crop expansion was not a limiting factor. Working with the Ministry for Primary Industries, we explored how land use change scenarios contributed to Government 2050 biogenic CH4 emission reduction targets. Doubling the area of alternative crops (a 195,000-ha increase) by reallocating land from livestock farming resulted in reducing biogenic CH4 emissions by 1.2 to 5.4% (0.35 to 1.57 Mt CO2-e) compared to 2017 baseline values, contributing to between 2.6 and 22.5% of the 2050 CH4 reduction targets, simultaneously increasing profitability by $NZ1.25 to 1.32 billion annually. While this approach demonstrates potential benefits of land use change, a deeper understanding of the complexity of land use decision-making is required to enable successful transitions. Addressing barriers to change requires collaborative efforts from land users, researchers and policy makers.

Drivers of municipal water security and vulnerability in Pakistan: A case study of Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Tehsil Mardan has experienced enormous shifts in land use and cover (LULC), growth in population, climate variance, and a drop in the groundwater table. This study sought to evaluate and quantify the vulnerability status of municipal water security in Tehsil Mardan, by incorporating LULC, population, and climate indicators using remote sensing and statistical techniques. LULC changes were quantified from Landsat imageries using Envi from 1990 to 2021. Field and questionnaire surveys were conducted to estimate groundwater depletion and municipal water demand. The Mann-Kendall trend test was applied to temperature and precipitation data. Analysis of correlation was performed to measure the relationship among all the variables. To get a deeper understanding of the vulnerability of municipal water security caused by physical, climatic, and social factors, the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) was utilized. LULC results showed a fivefold rise in built-up class from 37 km2 to 188 km2 and a substantial decline in bare land from 437 km2 to 252 km2 from 1990 to 2021. The average groundwater table depletion was one foot per year and showed a significant positive correlation with the number of tube wells, water supply and demand, and population growth. An increase of 0.008 °C per year in average temperature while a declining trend is observed in mean precipitation during the last 30 years. The results showed that municipal water security vulnerability changed from “invulnerable relatively” to “very vulnerable” stage during the last three decades. The study contributed valuable insights to facilitate policymakers, and urban planners for management of the current and future municipal water works, land use planning, and associated environmental opportunities and threats.