Data collection for assessment of the natural capital at the regional level: case study of LTSER Trnava region

Abstract

Context The landscape provides not only a living space for all life forms, including humans, but also a spatial base and set of resources for the implementation of individual human activities. Inappropriate implementation of human activities, disrespecting the properties of the landscape's natural resources, causes the degradation of natural resources and, consequently, the human living. Objectives The aim of this paper is to develop new methodological procedures and algorithms for effective assessment of natural capital based on the geosystem approach. Methods Each territorial unit (geosystem) represents a unique combination of natural assets that create a certain potential for the development of individual activities and eco-stabilization functions. In this study, we developed a new approach and algorithms to assess the natural capital of landscapes for sustainable use. This involves selecting indicators and their functional interpretation, as well as collecting available spatial data and statistics for GIS analysis, synthesis, and modeling. Results The methodological procedure consists of the determination of indicators for natural capital assessment, the determination of their functional values and weighting coefficients, the determination of the suitability of the geosystem for the implementation of individual activities based on the value of natural capital, and the determination of restrictions and limiting factors. The set of data on landscape assets can be categorized into abiotic, land cover and biotic, and socio-economic indicators, which can either support human activities or limit them. Options for sustainable use of natural capital were split into two groups of potential activities: (I) natural capital for landscape planning activities and (II) specific activities or functions (e.g., natural capital for energy use, recreation, regulation services). The modeling of eco-stabilizing natural capital in Trnava LTSER pointed to low spatial ecological stability, mainly in the central part of the district. Discussion Discussion pointed to strength, novelty and opportunities of implementing methodological approach to natural capital assessment. Conclusions As an output of this methodological approach, a comprehensive digital spatial database of landscape-ecological data for the assessment of natural capital and the suitability of its use for socio-economic activities has been created in Slovakia. The database represents a set of consistent spatial information on natural capital assets and other indicators, including land cover and socio-ecological indicators. The methodological approach can be applicable to any territory on the basis of a modification.