TOOLS FOR SUSTAINABLE AND SMART LAND USE: SLOVENIAN APPROACH FOR LAND REGENERATION SUPPORT

Abstract

Functionally degraded areas (FDAs) refer to not fully utilized or abandoned land with visible effects of previous use, and of lower utility value. Such areas may have potential for new development and ecological enhancement. In Slovenia, the first database of FDAs was created in 2017, where we developed a completely new spatial data layer in addition to the typology of FDAs and a methodological approach for systematic monitoring. In 2020, we updated the database in collaboration with spatial planners from all 212 Slovenian municipalities. To enable collaboration and to monitor changes in FDAs, we developed a custom application using the ArcGIS Online platform. The presented tools, a new database and an online application, can play an important role in the process of planning and decision making at different spatial levels. They could stop the expansion of built-up areas, contribute to more rational land use according to the principle of "no net land take", support the transition to a carbon-free society and enable active regeneration of degraded areas.