A GIS framework for the application of the land degradation neutrality concept in Mediterranean landscapes. Issue 25 (13th December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Al Sayah, Mario J.; Abdallah, Chadi; Khouri, Michel; Nedjai, Rachid; Darwish, Talal; Khatib, Houssein
• Is Part Of: Geocarto international. Volume 37:Issue 25(2023)
• Page Start: 10767
• Page End: 10797
• Publication Date: 2022-12-13
• Subjects: Watershed -- Mediterranean -- erosion -- land degradation -- LDN; Remote sensing -- Periodicals; Geographic information systems -- Periodicals; Geology -- Periodicals; Cartography -- Periodicals; 621.3678
• DOI: 10.1080/10106049.2022.2040600
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1010-6049

Abstract

Abstract: Given the absence of soil loss indicators within the Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) framework, this study integrates land cover suitability, soil erosion and sediment transport as complementary Mediterranean-tailored indicators. The 309 km 2 Lebanese Nahr Ibrahim basin was chosen for this purpose. Land cover suitability was determined by combining land capability-land cover maps, while soil erosion and sediment transport were assessed using the CORINE and SWAT models, respectively. Under current conditions, the following was found: a 34.84% land cover suitability; 4% low, 39.55% moderate and 56.45% high soil erosion risks zones, and 2.85% low, 26% moderate and 68.15% high sediment yields zones. Through the LDN response strategy based land use plan, land cover suitability increased by 26.54%, while soil erosion risks changed by: +3.1% low, +10.85% moderate and −18% high risk zones. For sediment transport, changes were: 0% low, +10.85% moderate and −18% high risk zones, hence the multi-effectiveness of LDN.