Recent innovations in land capability classification for sustainable development: a brief overview

Abstract

Land is a finite resource that must be managed wisely to ensure its sustainability. Consequently, land evaluation has become essential. Identifying and utilizing productive capacity of land efficiently and profitably is crucial; otherwise, resource degradation can severely impact natural ecosystems and food production. Over the years, various methodologies have been employed to assess land resources, and one such method is the Land Capability Classification (LCC). LCC is a widely used and fundamental approach to land-use planning, traditionally assessing land based on its intrinsic qualities and climate. This study aims to highlight new approaches and developments in land evaluation techniques. It provides a brief overview of recent technological and scientific advancements integrated into land evaluation. The findings suggest that LCC alone is inadequate for precise land assessment, emphasizing the need to integrate new technologies. Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies are becoming increasingly significant. Integrating various software, decision-making systems, and mathematical models can also enhance the accuracy of land assessment results. The continuous advancement of GIS and remote sensing technologies is paving the way for new tools to facilitate natural resource mapping, appraisal, surveillance, and management. Utilizing these technologies for future projections will be highly beneficial in accurately assessing the long-term impacts of current land management practices.