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Key Drivers of Land Use Changes in the Rural Area of Gargano (South Italy) and Their Implications for the Local Sustainable Development

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  • Nazgul Esengulova

    (Department of Humanities, Letters, Cultural Heritage, Education Sciences, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy)

  • Pasquale Balena

    (Department of Civil, Environmental, Land, Building Engineering, and Chemistry (DICATECh), Polytechnic University of Bari, 70125 Bari, Italy)

  • Caterina De Lucia

    (Department of Economics, Management and Territory, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy)

  • Antonio Lopolito

    (Department of Economics, Management and Territory, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy)

  • Pasquale Pazienza

    (Department of Economics, Management and Territory, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy)

Abstract

This study examines the dynamics of land use and land cover change (LULCC) in the Gargano area (Southern Italy) to reveal crucial insights into the socio-economic and environmental impacts on its unique natural and cultural resources. This analysis was conducted using a mixed approach of GIS data and expert interviews to investigate significant changes in the Gargano area, from 2000 to 2018, and their drivers. Artificial surfaces gained 22% of their original surfaces, while heterogeneous areas and pastures lost 25% and 78%, respectively. Urbanization and deforestation emerged as major concerns, reflecting heightened sensitivity to these transformative processes. Agricultural intensification and support policies were perceived as potential pressure sources on specific natural components. Conversely, these drivers counteracted land abandonment. Drivers such as education level and agricultural extensification were seen as levers for a more desirable land cover dynamic. Identified actions include providing targeted support for agriculture within environmental constraints, addressing land ownership fragmentation, supporting agricultural extensification, and promoting environmental awareness.

Suggested Citation

  • Nazgul Esengulova & Pasquale Balena & Caterina De Lucia & Antonio Lopolito & Pasquale Pazienza, 2024. "Key Drivers of Land Use Changes in the Rural Area of Gargano (South Italy) and Their Implications for the Local Sustainable Development," Land, MDPI, vol. 13(2), pages 1-19, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:13:y:2024:i:2:p:166-:d:1330151
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    References listed on IDEAS

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