Analysis of Landscape Character Assessment and Cultural Ecosystem Services Evaluation Frameworks for Peri-Urban Landscape Planning: A Case Study of Harku Municipality, Estonia
Fiona Nevzati (),
Martti Veldi,
Mart Külvik and
Simon Bell
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Fiona Nevzati: Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
Martti Veldi: Department of Landscape Architecture, Estonian University of Life Sciences, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
Mart Külvik: Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
Simon Bell: Department of Landscape Architecture, Estonian University of Life Sciences, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
Land, 2023, vol. 12, issue 10, 1-19
Abstract:
This study combined landscape character assessment (LCA) and cultural ecosystem services (CES) frameworks to evaluate human well-being in the peri-urban area of Harku Municipality, Estonia. Using geospatial data combined with expert opinions, the study investigated the interplay between landscape character types and environmental/contact types through the LCA method. In total, 21 distinct landscape types comprising 47 separate areas were identified, with CES values determined for each. Restorative, social, and cognitive values were associated with each landscape character type. The findings demonstrated the higher restorative potential of blue and green elements (water bodies, forests) with low settlement density and minimal agriculture. High-density settlements with good road access demonstrated significant social values, while mixed forests and wetlands tended to be associated with higher cognitive values. Coastal zones with semi-dense settlements and mixed forests earned favourable ratings, whereas industrial/agricultural landscapes were rated lowest for all values. These findings offer valuable insights into the complex dynamics of urban–rural interactions, resilience, and the impact of urbanisation on CES. They may inform future landscape management strategies, urban planning decisions, and policy considerations. Additionally, this study highlights the need for further research to explore the long-term trends and potential changes in CES in evolving peri-urban environments.
Keywords: human well-being; geospatial data; GIS; landscape planning; social values; cognitive values; restorative values; planning frameworks (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (4)
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:gam:jlands:v:12:y:2023:i:10:p:1825-:d:1246894
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